Starting the BodyBlitz challenge, I had a plan to count calories and stay within 1,250-1,500 each day, avoid heavy carbs at night and avoid junk food.

For weight workouts, I decided to follow the same program my partner had chosen: Ken Best's Season Training Part 2 from Ironman magazine. I chose walking for cardio.

My motivation was to be healthier, look good and get fit. It upset me to see my before photos and how bad I looked, especially the side on shot!

At 75.5kg, I looked at least five months pregnant. The stomach area is where the majority of my weight accumulates. For years I hid this under oversized shirts.

Being a mother of two, working full time, studying, running the household, having a partner who works away and living far from family or friends, I knew this would be tough but I set myself a finishing goal of 60kg.

The first couple of weeks were a shock to the system. I don't know what were worse the sugar cravings, or the muscle soreness from not exercising for over a year.

Temptations were always around from morning teas at work, to the kids having their treats. Still, it seemed saying no and not wanting to deviate from my daily food plan made me more disciplined.

The weekly shopping night meant eating out but instead of just choosing an unhealthy calorie loaded option, I choose carefully and had chicken and salad.

My fiancée Greg was doing the challenge as well so that was great. I had someone to be accountable to, someone who understood what I was going through and he was a great source of inspiration and encouragement.

I am proud of my 16kg weight loss and losing more than my goal. Being consistent with my diet and exercise has given me good results. I feel great and I don't have to hide under large shirts anymore!
We are going for a holiday back home now. I think some people might be surprised as the last time they saw me I was pregnant and 90kg. No time to slacken off, though. My new goal is to see some abs by my 40th birthday in April. c