A father from Musselburgh, East Lothian, has shared how he lost five stone after struggling to climb stairs without losing his breath.
Munya Vengesa, 46, once ran marathons, but over the years, he saw his health decline. Weighing 107kg (over 16 stone), he realised it was time for a major lifestyle change.
“I knew something wasn’t right when getting upstairs was tough,” said Munya. “I used to run marathons, and now I was out of breath on the stairs. I wasn’t happy, and it was affecting my mental health too.”
Motivated to improve his fitness, Munya joined ‘bpositive fitness solutions’ in Prestonpans, run by personal trainer Bob Baillie. A friend had recommended the gym, and Munya decided to attend a class.
“I wanted to be healthier and have more energy—at home and at work,” he said. “Bob helped me get on top of my diet. He sent me recipe books that completely changed how I looked at food.”
Munya discovered that healthy eating didn’t mean bland meals. He started cooking flavourful dishes like Mongolian beef and Moroccan chicken, and learned more about portion sizes and nutritious substitutes.
“I swapped sugary drinks like Coke for healthier fizzy drinks like Rubicon. It made a big difference.”
He also made small lifestyle changes, like walking during lunch breaks. Combined with regular fitness classes and an 8-week training program, Munya gradually transformed his health.
Over the course of a year, he lost 32kg (around five stone).
“People can’t believe the change,” he said. “You can keep saying ‘I’ll start tomorrow,’ but when does day one actually begin? There will be setbacks, but it’s about staying the course and celebrating the small wins.”
He praised Bob and the supportive environment at the gym. “It felt more like a community club than a regular class. Everyone lifts each other up.”
Bob Baillie, 47, a former professional footballer, started the gym in 2013. He said Munya’s journey has been inspirational.
“He turned up at 6am instead of 6pm on his first day, but he came back that evening,” Bob recalled. “He was shy, but he kept asking questions and showed up consistently. He’s a real light in the class now.”
Bob added, “It’s never too late. No matter your age or fitness level, you can achieve your goals if you commit and believe in yourself.”
Munya’s transformation has even required a whole new wardrobe. He now encourages others to take the first step and stick with it.
“It’s been tough, but I’ve had amazing support. It really does take a village.”
Related Topics:
Lisa Ray Drops Cardio Experts React to Advice for Women Over 40
China Grandma 71 Comes Third in Fitness Contest Shares Health Tips
Want to Lose Weight and Build Strength Lift Weights and Swap Foods
