What are your weight-control goals?

Ideally I'd like to get down to 65 kgs and maintain my weight at that level. A lot of my goals don't just focus on weight loss. I have running goals - to improve my running times and to run a half marathon - and other fitness goals. I also want to improve my strength and hope to master the chin-up soon. I also have health goals. About five years ago, I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes so initially my goal was to get off medication and, now I've done that, to stay off it and manage my diabetes through diet and exercise alone.

What is your motivation for losing weight?

When I was first diagnosed with diabetes, I never worried too much but after a few years I kept hearing stories of people who had health issues from complications related to diabetes - losing limbs and eyesight. That's a huge motivation. Because I'd been overweight my whole life, I'd gotten into the mindset that I was always going to be overweight. Then something clicked and I realised that it all comes down to personal choice - if I choose to be overweight, I will be, but if I choose to be healthy and fit then it's entirely possible. Of course, fitting into fabulous new clothes is a pretty good motivation too.

What is your weight-loss method?

Counting calories works really well for me. With fitness, I think constantly giving myself new challenges and goals to meet keeps me motivated.

What obstacles have you encountered while losing weight?

The biggest obstacle for me so far has been getting close to my goal weight and becoming complacent. It's easy to think "I've done it and now I can rest" but looking after your health and fitness is for life.

What tips do you have for others who are trying to lose weight?

Keep a positive outlook and realise you are in this for the long haul. The scales might not move for a week or two, but they will go down. Learn to say "no" to yourself. There's a part of your brain that's like a spoilt two year - throwing tantrums if you don't get treats. Just say "no" and move on. Similarly, when it comes to exercise, don't think about it. Plan your workouts for the week, then don't debate it in your head - if you start thinking you're too tired or too busy, you'll pike out. Just get yourself out the door and the rest is easy.

How do you feel now that you're achieving success?

I have good days and bad days - sometimes I feel like it's the biggest achievement of my life and other days I feel like I should be doing more. I love being more active and having more energy. Plus it's a thrill to know I can shop anywhere I want after years of being confined to plus size stores. On the bad days, I have to remind myself that I'm doing enough. It's easy to slip into a mindset that I have to be perfect, but no one can achieve that!

How have the products or services offered by CalorieKing.com.au helped you to lose weight?

I started losing weight on my own - counting calories and using a food diary - but joined up to CalorieKing because I wanted to have an easier way of managing that information. It's handy to have a weekly check in point and being able to monitor that information.