Burnley's "Lite for Life" weight loss programme

Two successful dieters are almost unrecognisable as they start 2010 to what they were at the start of 2009 – having lost a total of 8 stone between them – with the help of Burnley Council’s ‘Lite 4 Life’ programme.

Their 12 months on the 'Lite for Life' programme has transformed their lives in more ways than one. Not only has Jacquie Dann lost 5 stone, she has recently qualified as a gym instructor and has enrolled as a Health Trainer, and loves running, when just 12 months ago she was out of breath walking 200 yards!

Nathan Massey, who lost 3 stone, has dramatically reduced his blood pressure medication, and says the main benefit is the time he spends doing activities with his children that he couldn't have done before he lost the weight.

Both Jacqui and Nathan attended the 'Lite 4 Life' Community Fit Club weight loss programme at the St. Peter's Leisure Centre, taking part in a programme of regular exercise classes, and benefiting from healthy diet bulletins throughout the programme.

They were set exercises to gradually build their fitness, starting with gentler classes of 'aqua aerobics', and 'fit and functional' classes. But one year on they are now attending Body Pump, Step Aerobics and Circuit Training, as well as regularly enjoying a swim in the Olympic size pool at St. Peter's.

Jacquie said: "The fabulous group support at Lite 4 Life has been invaluable to me from a knowledge and social point of view. The huge benefits that I've gained speak for themselves. I'm 5 stone lighter than I was 12 months ago, my confidence has increased and I'm the happiest and fittest that I've ever been."

Weight loss programmes include a men only session on Tuesday's at 6pm - 7pm at the Spirit of Sport Centre, Ormerod Road; and mixed weight loss sessions on Monday's 5.30 pm - 6.30 pm at the Mechanics Theatre, Thursday's 12 noon - 1 pm at the St. Peter's Centre, and Friday's 12.00 pm - 1.00 pm at the Padiham leisure centre.

For more information contact Burnley Council's Healthy Lifestyles team on 01282 664420.