Claire Beyer has lost 44 kilograms. 86074 Picture: KRISTIAN SCOTT
By XAVIER SMERDON
A HOPPERS Crossing mother who lost 44 kilograms in a little over a year is preparing to run her first half marathon.
Claire Beyer was classified as morbidly obese when she tipped the scales at 116 kilograms in May last year.
After a series of lifestyle changes Ms Beyer has managed to lower her weight to 72kg.
“I can’t believe it (the weight) was there. It’s a bit embarrassing really,” Ms Beyer said.
“I realised it was time for a change when I was trying to get something out of the car and I was scared I was going to break the tail gate.”
The mother of two young children attributed her weight gain to her second pregnancy and a stressful management job.
Since losing the weight and getting closer to her goal of dropping 50kgs, Ms Beyer said her life had taken a turn for the better.
“I always thought I was too big to start exercising and losing weight. I thought that everyone would be looking at me,” she said.
“It’s just about getting your mindset right. I’m not a super athlete, I’ve just got two young girls and I don’t want them to go through what I went through and I want to set a good example for them.”
On 14 October Ms Beyer will take part in the Medibank Melbourne Marathon Festival, an event celebrating its 35th year, by running 21.1 kilometres.
She said for other people hoping to replicate her achievements the first step is always the hardest.
“I’d forgotten to think about myself when I was that big and I think once you start putting yourself first that is the key to feeling healthy again,” she said.
“Just start. The hardest thing is to start so just start.
“If one person sees my journey and decides to do the same then that’s enough for me.”
For more information on the marathon visit www.melbournemarathon.com.au.
