By Gotlhokwang Angoma-Mzini; photograph by Louis Botha
Didn’t think your #TransformationTuesday post could make a difference? This woman’s selfie helped a reader lose 21kg! Check out the before-and-after pics!
The Instagram account that changed Sibongiseni Gubuza’s life
Skipping meals, binge eating and no exercise – that was Sibongiseni Gubuza’s formula for weight gain. Her diet included about five cups of coffee a day and fried foods when she finally did eat. “Even though I’d been a gym member for two years, I’d only been there seven times and three of those times were to use their steam room for my clogged sinuses,” admits Sibs. A friend introduced her to the RockingnHeels dance class on Instagram. “I saw women of all sizes exercising and having fun. I was intrigued,” she says.
Sibs decided to sign up for a month-long dance course with Nkateko “Takkies” Maswanganye. She got inspired and confident. Today Sibs runs at least five kays four times a week, has run a half marathon and lost 21.5kg. After giving up on ever losing weight, it was the power of an online community that gave Sibs the motivation she needed.
Scientifically, it makes sense. According to a study from Northwestern University in the US, dieters who make connections in online weight-loss communities can be inspired to lose more weight. “Findings suggest that people can do very well at losing weight with minimal professional help when they become centrally connected to others on the same weight-loss journey,” says Bonnie Spring, an author of the study.
Check out Sib’s before-and-after pics:
Sib’s Slim-down Schedule
“I run at least five kays four times a week and I commit myself to my RockingnHeels dance classes twice a week, which are great to tone my body and strengthen my core for greater endurance during my runs.”
“I have no less than two litres of water a day, fruit, vegetables, legumes and meat and other treats over weekends. I love food and I never starve myself. I’ve grown to have a healthy relationship with food.”
For more motivational stories, grab the April issue of Women’s Health – on shelves NOW – or subscribe here.
