My daughters had been practising Nam Pai Chuan for some time and I had watched the class with a sense of envy. Pushed by my daughters to participate, I took the step to try the adult and kids class. I was joined by several other unfit adults and so I did not stand out too much. Despite the fact that I almost collapsed through exhaustion, I managed to get through the class, in truth I was hooked. However, I needed to develop the strength, physically and psychologically, to continue.

 

I knew that joining a gym was futile. I had tried this before without success. The first step was starting a diet. I embarked, on my sister-in-law's advice, on a ketogenic diet. I removed all bread, pasta, rice, potatoes, pastry and high carb foods from my diet instantly. The results were astounding. Weight fell off. I also knew that without exercise the weight would return.  I asked Sifu Jerome de Silva to help me. I didn't have the confidence to train in the class and expose my own insecurities at that time.

 

The first class was tough. After 20 mins I had to sit down and take a series of deep breaths. This was going to be demanding. I was fat and seriously unfit. This would not be a quick fix. I was also going to have to stick with it and I didn't have a history of long term commitment to exercise. I surprised everyone, including myself.

 

I am now three years into my new lifestyle. I am no longer obese. I train at least twice per week, sometimes more. I have also added into my exercise regime DDP Yoga which I try to do every day. I ensure that I keep this up during my frequent and hectic travel schedule.  

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I recently turned 50.  I took my brown belt and continue to exercise. I am now a committed vegan. 

 

I still have a long way to go.  I remain committed, but above all, I absolutely love it. It's never a chore. I continue to push myself to achieve more and I am grateful for the amazing people I surround myself with at Chiswick Kung Fu.

 

Thank you!