The members of Slimming World Twickenham and Isleworth are continuing to enjoy a successful and fulfilling, healthy lifestyle throughout the numerous lockdowns.

Not willing to put their health on the backburner they have been attending virtual support meetings and have continued to share ideas, food learning and support each other.

Target member Geraldine Bennett explains why Slimming World has been so important for her: "The reason I originally joined Slimming World was because I was in so much pain with my knees and the hospital consultant said my weight didn't help.

"I felt this was the last chance to do something for myself. I had tried other slimming clubs before but never really had much success because I think they were so restrictive, they were diets but this was an eye opener; it is a healthy way of eating that can be continued through life"."

Geraldine really appreciated that with Slimming World you can choose your own target. Members have all found that they are not missing out on anything whilst still getting fabulous results on the scales.

Geraldine says: "There are so many different recipes and one can also adapt any recipe by using the food optimising 'bible'.

"I think one of my favourite recipes is Szechuan Pork with noodles. I've done it for dinner parties and it is always popular."

Body confidence

Body confidence can have such a big impact on our lives, at times we may not recognise this.

At group we like to encourage both weight loss and getting active. Having lost more than 5 stone to get to target, Geraldine recounts: "Getting to target was one of the best moments, I had proved to myself I could do it and the confidence it gave me was unbelievable.

"I actually went swimming again as I didn't mind wearing a swimsuit and even the silliest of things like being able to wrap a towel around myself with plenty to spare made me smile."

While we all have been dealing with this difficult situation, not being able to meet up with friends and family it has been great for the members of Slimming World Twickenham to still maintain that group support virtually.

Twickenham and Isleworth consultant Laurie Bull says: "I know that for me, as a member and as a consultant, that group is the place to be.

"It can really make a difference to how our week works out. The motivation and inspiration that the guys give each other is fantastic and we all love to have a giggle."

Geraldine says: "I think going to group and staying to the meetings is really important as no matter how long you have been in the SW family, there are always new tips and the support of the other members."

Not letting anything stop them Slimming World groups are open throughout the year. You can find details at slimmingworld.co.uk for your local group.