Alison Hammond has undergone a dramatic lifestyle transformation over the past five years, shedding an impressive 11 stone and overcoming a pre-diabetes diagnosis. At her heaviest, Alison weighed 30 stone, and the diagnosis served as a wake-up call that pushed her to change her habits and adopt a healthier lifestyle.
A Wake-Up Call for Change
In an interview, Alison revealed that her pre-diabetes diagnosis came after her mother expressed concern about her health. Her mother, who had type 2 diabetes, had warned Alison that she was at risk of the same condition. The diagnosis was a turning point for Alison, and she realized that she had to make significant changes to her lifestyle to avoid further health complications.
“I had to be an adult about this. The sweets had to stop – and the fatty foods,” Alison said. This shift in mindset led to her decision to overhaul her diet and fitness regime.
A Holistic Approach to Health
Alison’s weight loss journey has not involved strict dieting but instead focuses on moderation and sustainable habits. She credits her success to a balanced approach to food and fitness, where no foods are off-limits, but portion control and healthy choices are key.
“I don’t deny myself anything. I eat everything, but in moderation,” Alison shared. Her approach to eating is all about enjoying the food she loves without overindulging.
In terms of fitness, Alison works closely with her personal trainer, Lui Mancini, who has created a fitness plan tailored to her needs. Resistance training is a cornerstone of her routine, focusing on different muscle groups to build strength and promote muscle growth. Alison’s workouts are designed to be challenging but enjoyable, ensuring that she remains motivated.
Fitness Routine
Alison’s typical workout begins with a 10-minute warm-up, followed by a 30-minute upper-body strength routine. Her exercises include lat pulldowns, dumbbell rows, seated shoulder presses, and dumbbell lateral raises. She trains at least twice a week, with the option to increase the frequency based on her energy levels and schedule.
Despite her busy lifestyle, Alison has made fitness a priority and is dedicated to maintaining her health and strength. She also practices stretching, yoga, and regular walks to support her overall well-being.
Diet: A Day in the Life
Alison starts her day with an immunity-boosting ginger shot and a hearty Full English breakfast, which she enjoys with her son, Aiden. On studio days, she typically enjoys Caribbean food for lunch, including rice, peas, and chicken. When at home, she likes to cook comfort foods like homemade lasagne or curried goat with rice.
For dinner, Alison enjoys a variety of dishes, including chicken fried rice or curried goat. She also prioritizes physical activity in the afternoons, whether it’s going to the cinema, doing DIY, cleaning, or engaging in sports.
The Importance of Mental Well-being
In addition to her physical transformation, Alison has spoken openly about how the loss of her mother influenced her decision to prioritize her health. “My mum had type 2 diabetes, and she was worried for me,” Alison shared. “That was frightening. I thought, ‘I have to be an adult about this.'”
Her mother’s passing in 2020 from lung and liver cancer further motivated Alison to take charge of her health and well-being.
No Quick Fixes: Alison’s Approach to Weight Loss
Alison has always been candid about her weight struggles. In 2019, she joined Weight Watchers, admitting that she felt embarrassed about her size at over 20 stone. She has been trolled about her weight, but she refuses to change for others’ expectations. “I like taking up a little bit of extra space in the world,” she said, embracing her body confidently.
Despite avoiding weight-loss jabs, which she found intimidating due to negative stories surrounding them, Alison’s lifestyle changes have had a lasting impact. She emphasizes the importance of finding a balance between diet, exercise, and mental well-being.
Empowering Others
Through her transformation, Alison hopes to inspire others to make positive changes in their own lives. “I want my journey to empower others to think about making changes to their lifestyle to become the best version of themselves,” she said.
Alison has made it clear that her health and happiness are her priorities, and her story serves as a reminder that it’s never too late to make a change and pursue a healthier lifestyle.
Alison’s incredible journey of resilience and self-care shows that with determination, balance, and self-love, anyone can make a positive change in their life, no matter their starting point.
