I have always struggled with weight fluctuations and I was in the gym thinking I was making a difference but in reality I was just playing. I contacted Ideal Bodies Online and signed up for 12 weeks to get some direction in my weight loss plans. Kristin and Maxine were fabulous leading me through the 12 weeks and I lost nearly 10kgs. 

 

 

Following the 12 weeks I signed up for another 12 as I wanted to get to my ideal weight and I was enjoying the program greatly. The second 12 weeks was supposed to get me to my Everest departure date. Then tragedy struck!

 

Last year, at work I hyper-extended my left knee and tore the ACL, medial and lateral ligaments, all my plans and efforts were ruined in the blink of an eye. The beautiful body I was working toward, including glimpses of abs and lovely shoulders that came as a surprise had to go on hold. I was devastated!

 

A full knee reconstruction resulted and weeks of inactivity followed. My trip was rescheduled for 12 months time (Nov 2011) so I would have something to work toward.  I was always mindful of the eating patterns I learned from Ideal Bodies Online so while I couldn’t exercise, I could still eat properly thus I didn’t gain any weight. Rehabilitation was slow and painful but Everest was always there. Some days though, the stair case in my home was my summit!

 

This year I modified the exercises I learned from Ideal Bodies Online, with consent of my physio, used them in my rehab and begun my training for Base Camp again. Mindful of my need to build stamina and be careful of my knee, I began to lift weights again and although I could no longer run, the incline on the treadmill became my best friend.  My weight stayed the same the whole time which was amazing as I did have some relapses and days when I felt sorry for myself when my knee just wouldn’t cooperate. 

 

 

I missed my protein shakes but the Sherpa cooks made me porridge every morning. What an amazing trip and although I needed my knee brace for the whole time, I was so happy when I finally got to Base Camp and had my photo taken. 

 

 

It was such a strenuous hike and nothing can prepare you for it (or the altitude) although I am so glad I lost the weight because it would have been a struggle otherwise. I have Ideal Bodies Online to thank for that. So, now it’s time for me to get a new challenge. I know that I have learned some great strategies from the team at Ideal Bodies Online and I know that managing to get to Everest Base Camp means I can accomplish anything.