Welcome Freya31 This is an amazing forum to be part of. Lots of people on here have different areas of concern but we are all trying to get to, or maintain, a desired weight. As you get to know us, and share experiences with us, you will find what a super supportive bunch we are and that we don't pass judgements.
Here are a few suggestions about how to get the most out of the forum. If you are using the new HU App (helpful when you are out and about), many of these features are not available so I suggest you use the full website version.
The first place to look is at the Pinned posts section to the right of your screen (bottom if you're using a mobile), read the Welcome Newbie thread first and move through to the challenges, where we hope you'll find at least one that will appeal to you.
Move down to the Topics, to find a variety of threads, collated into topics for ease of access and we ask that you also 'file' your own threads, so that others won't miss your important news; and you will have important news to share with us.
Have a look at the NHS 12 week plan, as many people have had success with it. Also use the BMI checker to find your target calories, it's important to eat enough. This can be a major turning point, realising you can eat anything as long as the calories are accounted for.
Don't forget to take your starting measurements and a 'before' picture, as they can be very motivating on days that the scales refuse to co-operate; that happens to me quite regularly!
The forum also has group weigh-ins every day, as well as a Daily Diary, if you wish to take part. The posts can always be found in the Events section on the 'home' page.
If you just want to chat, to say hello, or share any news or struggles then look out for What's Happening Today thread. There are many other challenges to get involved with, just choose to do what you are comfortable with.
You'll notice a grey box next to people's names, these are achievement badges, and as a new member you have a 'Newbie' badge. We've found that to get the best out of this community, we need to be active on the forum, as it's where we exchange information, get motivation and inspiration and make friends. We hope that you'll join us here, regularly.
If you have any questions please just ask.
The more you join in and connect with people the more you get out of the forum.
I wish you well as you get started with a new lifestyle.
You have done so well with losing 3st 1lb that is fantastic. I know what you mean I feel the same when people comment on my weight loss. Don't let any comments form people make you lose track of all your hard work, your doing great. Wow 9lbs lost this week is fantastic. I will change your newbie badge for a 3 stone one to celebrate your achievements so far.
I can understand that feeling of thinking you are beginning to look little better, particularly when you have previously been a lot bigger; I am sorry someone upset you with a thoughtless remark! Well done for turning things around, and getting back into the swing of things.
I too lost 3 stone last year from calorie counting and a little hill walking etc and am now a size 18....I almost got into a 16 but have recently let things slip a little. However, I do have to get going again now as want to look good for my son's wedding next December, but finding it harder to stay motivated now that my legs no longer hurt and I can get in and out of the bath again!
What are you doing to keep yourself going? Do you have a target weight or are you just aiming to get fitter generally?
Thanks very much for your reply. I've set a target weight. But know that when/if I get to it realistically I would need to lower it by a further 2 stone.
I just wanted to set a goal that was more realistic to keep me on track.
I joined the gym a couple of weeks ago and have been going a few times a week. I plan on trying a few low impact classes when my kids go back to school in a few weeks.
My friend also joined slimming world and I have made a few friends there too so I believe that too is giving me motivation.
I'm noticing improvements in joints/movement and skin so that too helps me stay on track.
Although at the time making sensible diet choices doesn't always feel good, afterwards I feel darn proud of myself 😁
Well done I quite new as well let's hope we can do it together. I lost another 2lb this week and really feel even just reading posts and trying the recipes helps.
Welcome to the forum!! First of all do not listen to people and there reactions of you. They do not like themselves and have to hurt somebody else's feeling to make them feel better. And a great lose as well. You are up and onwards to your goal !!!! Gook luck.
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Hi everyone
Hi everyone!! 
Life's hard at the moment :(
