Sue Ottley transformed her life by discovering boxing classes on Facebook. After losing weight, she feels stronger and no longer needs medication for her back pain.
Bolton: Sue Ottley always struggled with her weight. She used to call herself an “up and downer.” At over 16 stone, fitness and diet weren’t on her radar.
That all changed after a serious fall at work. Sue slipped six discs while carrying a laptop. The fall left her in pain and needing to rethink her health.
At 47, she was told by her doctor that losing weight was crucial for recovery. The alternative? Painkillers or surgery. Sue knew she had to make a change.
“Even standing up was tough,” she recalled. After a visit to A&E, she was given options: pain relief, surgery, or weight loss. She chose weight loss.
Sue started with aqua aerobics and Pilates. The weight began to drop, but her real journey kicked off when she found ladies-only boxing classes on Facebook.
Initially, the boxing classes were a challenge. She often felt sick and struggled to keep up. But as she got stronger, her weight continued to fall.
Tracking her calories and eating smaller portions helped too. Over time, her back pain eased, and everyday tasks became easier. “I could go upstairs without getting out of breath,” she said.
Now, Sue weighs 12 stone 10 pounds and wears a size 12 dress. She no longer needs medication for her back and feels stronger than ever.
Reflecting on her journey, she said, “I was out of breath just going up the stairs.” Exercise was key for her, even if she didn’t have the perfect diet.
“There’s no quick fix,” she added. “It’s all about hard work.” Her confidence has soared, and she feels physically better, not just about her appearance.
“I can run up and down stairs without pain,” she said. “I feel better and I look better.”
