“I started the Maxine’s Challenge as I saw it as a means of improving my fitness level and to help me put myself into a better place mentally. I knew that I needed to make some serious lifestyle changes, but wasn’t sure where to start. I felt like I was at the end of the line, and this was my last chance to bring my health back into order. The Shape Up challenge was the perfect opportunity at the perfect time. It was going to be all or nothing! And I’m so glad I did… My motivation came from a strong desire to be around for my grandchildren, and a necessity of improving my health before it was too late…

My main objective from the Challenge was just to be normal! I wanted to be confident in my own skin, and to have the ability and freedom of being able to once again enjoy the things I used to love doing, free from my medical issues, or being housebound when they played up. It was really important to me that I be able to keep up with my 5 grandchildren, and I longed for a life where I was unstoppable!

For me the hardest stage was at the beginning, before the Challenge had really made a big impact on my symptoms. There were days when it was near impossible to make it out the house because of them, and also battling with low energy levels. Sometimes it was difficult to push through, but the more I stuck to it, the easier it became. I must say that I did start to see improvements quite rapidly! The diet kicked in, and I could feel the changes in my body taking place, and my symptoms eased. The harder I worked, the easier it became to make an impact on my body.

Having a training plan provided was excellent! I wouldn’t have known where to even start without it. The training plan was such a key to my success, and with the support of my PT Gerard Lewis, it was just so easy to follow.

I couldn’t be happier with my transformation! I almost can’t believe how much 12 weeks has changed my entire life. The thing that makes me the happiest about the transformation, is just how much my health has been impacted. It’s not just aesthetics- the slimming, toning & building muscle. It’s actually what’s on the inside that’s made the biggest change in my life.

I always saw before & after pictures in magazine’s & thought that such dramatic changes were impossible, or photoshopped. Now, after seeing so many truly remarkable transformations in person at the gala, and living it myself, I know that it truly is possible, and all it takes is 5 things. The right attitude, support, nutrition, exercise and 12 weeks!

Whatever reason, be it for fitness, to lose weight, firm and tone, muscle up or to improve your health. I can only say do it and do it now.  Don’t wait, don’t have any excuses or tomorrows.  This is your life now. Start being the person that you want to be now.

If I can do it anyone can. Be focused, be strong, be prepared, be committed, consistent and dedicated. Set your goals and don’t let anyone stop you. Be one of the top Challengers next year!

Thank you to the Max and Maxine Challenge Incorporation and your wonderful supportive team you have all made incredible differences to thousands of lives and most certainly have changed mine”.