Turning the tables: Craig’s weight loss success with Numan

Craig (52), a DJ from the south coast of England, swapped spinning decks for shifting pounds with Numan’s Weight Loss Programme. Let’s see how he got on.

Can you tell us about your background and what led you to start the Weight Loss Programme?

My issues started when I was at school. I was bullied and have always had psychological issues with my weight. I now work as a DJ most of the time. Spending weeks and weeks on the road makes it hard to eat or drink healthily. I was piling the weight on and it felt out of control. I knew I had to do something about it. And that’s when I came to Numan.

Did your weight affect your confidence?

It always has. My biggest wake-up call was when I got some photos back from one of the festivals I did. I was wearing a T-shirt that I thought fit me but it wasn’t a good sight. That was one hell of a motivator.

How did you find out about Numan and our Weight Loss Programme?

I’ve used Numan a few times before. After years of not seeing a doctor, I decided to take a blood test with Numan since I was suffering from low energy levels. The results came back with low testosterone. I like the way Numan communicates with patients. The support is really important to me.

How was your initial experience with Numan?

I got a call from a clinician and it was very thorough. When I talked about my mental health they went into depth to make sure I was right for the treatment. Everything about Numan was professional and caring. So I wanted to give it a go. I knew it was going to be hard but if you don’t give it a go, you won't know. And it’s been brilliant. Absolutely brilliant. I started 6 months ago and I’ve lost 13kg.

How would you describe your relationship with your coach?

Amy was brilliant. Along with the support, she asked me challenging questions that made me think about what I was doing or my motivations. She helped sort my mindset out. It’s not about taking medication forever, it's about making a transition into a healthier lifestyle. There are also some great articles and videos in the app which I dipped in and out of every day. It’s knowledgeable and interesting stuff that’s easy to read.

You’ve stopped the treatment now. How’s that been?

The programme set me on the right path mentally and lifestyle-wise. I’ve stopped the treatment but the weight has not come back. Amy was honest about the potential weight regain after stopping and being prepared for that did help. I do get days where I binge but because of what I‘ve learned I’m not hard on myself like I used to be. I’m allowed a day off and I can’t punish myself. We’re not robots.

How are you feeling now about your weight and the lifestyle changes you've implemented?

I'm feeling very positive and much more confident about my weight. I've incorporated exercise back into my routine, like yoga, and I've started writing in a diary to keep track of my thoughts and progress. I know I’m making healthy choices, but there’s no ‘I mustn’t do that or this’. I’m making positive choices for a positive reason.

What’s the greatest takeaway from your experience with the Weight Loss Programme?

I can’t say anything other than good things about the whole experience. You get so much value out of the programme, with the support, the app, the training, and the coaches. I felt so thoroughly supported and it was such a positive experience. The work you guys do is fantastic.

Can you share how these changes have impacted your outlook and interactions with others?

My outlook is so much better. I didn’t do it to have other people say how good I look, but whenever I see people I haven’t seen for a while they all compliment me and even send messages to say they can’t believe it. For someone who got bullied at school about weight, it’s massive. I’ve always felt self-conscious about going to the swimming pool or beach. But now it doesn’t bother me. I don’t care what people think anymore.