Member Of The Month – Dina Mellis
What inspired you to join Health Mates?
I have been a member for just over a year now, I wanted to join so I could get healthy, fit and continue my weight loss journey.
Why was this important?
I have always been overweight and struggled with it my whole life. Early last year I had my first child and I had put on a lot of weight through the pregnancy. 2 weeks after my baby was born I went through a very heart breaking situation which made me determined to do something for myself and my child.
What is your training routine?
Initially I was in the gym 3-5 days a week depending on what was happening with my baby, as I was not working I could get there more. At the moment I am back at work 3 days, meaning I am only in the gym 2 – 3 days a week, but I try to do about two hours on those days. I am also starting PT with Amber with a couple friends as well.
What have you achieved and how has it changed your life?
Firstly, I have achieved 61kg weight loss and I am also so
much fitter! Above all this I am happy and healthy, especially for my boy who is now 18 months. Being able to chase after him and keep up with him means the world to me! As hard as it is sometimes to motivate myself to get to the gym, when I am there, and especially after I am done, I feel happy and content that I have achieved something good.
What are your goals for the future?
My goals at the moment are to still lose another 10kg and then it will be about maintaining this, keeping healthy and coming to the gym still.
Do you have any advice to share?
It’s a hard one because everyone says “just get in there and do it”, but sometimes it’s not that easy, especially when you are really self conscious about the way you look. A gym can be the most intimidating place to be, but at the same time that is exactly what you need to do. Start off slowly, ease your way into it, maybe a couple of times a week to start. Don’t over do it because then you will hate it. I love doing the classes, so that keeps me interested. Find something at the gym you really enjoy and keep going with that at the beginning and then venture out when you feel more comfortable. I am also lucky because I come to the gym with a great friend, so that always helps. I have also found a gym that I really love to come to and feel so comfortable at due to the staff, instructors and all the great classes and facilities they have!
“Everyone says just to get in there and do it but sometimes it’s not that easy… but at the same time that is exactly what you need to do. Start off slowly ease your way into it.”
Congratulations Dina!
