Waterlooville slimmer shines as local Slimming World Icon
A super slimmer from Waterlooville has been named one of this year’s Slimming World Icons – a national competition celebrating members who have transformed their lives inside and out.
Abi Summers, who joined the slimming world group at Waterlooville Community Centre in June, has lost 3st 3.5lbs and is now inspiring her members to believe that they can do it too.
Abi was nominated for the award by fellow group members and was over the moon to take home the title. She decided to join Slimming World after her 30th Birthday and since then, she has totally changed her relationship with food and embraced the Slimming World eating plan; she enjoys using the Slimming World App for finding recipes, uses Slimming World Kitchen which is Slimming World’s food delivery service and enjoys walks with her husband and her puppy and feels healthier, less breathless and her confidence has soared, helping both her physical and mental wellbeing.
Abi says: “I’d tried to lose weight so many times before, but I always felt restricted and ended up giving up. What’s different with Slimming World is how realistic and flexible it is, I can eat proper, satisfying meals and still enjoy dinners out or family get-togethers without feeling like I’m missing out. I’ve learned how to make healthier choices that fit around my life, not the other way around.”
“Winning this award means so much to me. Knowing that my journey has inspired others is enough for me but to win this award means so much. Having people around me in my Slimming World group who understand, encourage me every week, and celebrate the wins – big or small, has been incredibly motivating.”
Abi adds: “I’ve made so many friends at group — it’s such a supportive space. It’s not just about the scales; it’s about feeling better inside and out. We really cheer each other on every single week, its my safe space and there’s absolutely no judgment at all.”
Abi follows Slimming World’s Food Optimising healthy eating plan, which encourages members to eat ‘Free Foods’, foods that are lower in energy density, meaning they have less calories per gram, and highly satisfying, such as fruit, vegetables, pasta, rice, potatoes, lean meat and fish – so they can lose weight without feeling deprived.
She says: “I cook more from scratch now, and I’ve actually started to enjoy experimenting in the kitchen. Slimming World has helped me learn more about different food groups and how to create balanced meals that keep me feeling good.”
Mel Knibbs, who runs the Slimming World Group at Waterlooville Community Centre that Abi attends, says: “I’m beyond proud of Abi. Her transformation has been incredible, not just physically but in confidence and mindset too. She really is an inspiration to everyone in our group – a true Slimming World Icon!"
"So many people join our group and can’t believe Abi ever needed to lose weight, but she is proof that – with self-belief, commitment and great support – you can achieve anything. Everyone’s welcome at our group, no matter where they’re starting from. Whether you’re making lifestyle changes, taking weight-loss medication, or just exploring your options, you’ll find understanding, encouragement and support every step of the way.”
Abi says of Mel:” Mel is so understanding, supportive, and empowering. She is so lo lovely, and really gives her all to groups. She’s a superstar!”
To find out more about the Waterlooville Slimming World group, which meets at Waterlooville Community Centre every Monday at 5pm & 6.30pm, pop along, call Mel Knibbs on 07702633420, or visit www.slimmingworld.co.uk.