Boot Camp: The pain has a sweet payoff

There's no better feeling than seeing your body "take shape" as a result of exercise and a healthy eating plan.

My third week of Adventure Boot Camp started with great news from my overworked measuring tape - I've lost 42cm around my chest, and I happily wave goodbye to my oversized breasts.

I no longer have to hold my breath when wearing my favourite knitted top - a hand-me-down from my teenage years.

I won't lie, I do miss the delicious taste of sweet-and-sticky ribs, a generous portion of spicy hot wings or a cup of vanilla ice cream.

But every time I think about the number of squats and lunges it has taken me to get where I am, I reach for a glass of ice-cold water instead.

Squats have a special place in my legs. I'm starting to dream about them - that burning, stiff pain.

Last Tuesday was the only day men were allowed to experience what this boot camp is about, to see how much "fun" we women actually have.

There was a lot of sweat, with all the jumping jacks and burpees (squat thrusts) they had to do.

They always "suffer" when women change their eating habits, but I was fortunate that my partner went along with the lifestyle change with a smile on his face.

A strong support structure is helpful when you're adjusting to a new diet. The last thing you need is to catch a whiff of KFC when you're trying to stick to your eating plan.

In spite of the side effects and cravings I've had, the lifestyle change has done wonders for me.

SHARE WITH US: Are you on an exercise and healthy eating plan? What challenges are you facing on this journey? Do you have advice for our reporter, Poppy Louw?

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