Mansfield couple celebrate incredible 7½ stone weight loss with Slimming World
A Mansfield couple are celebrating a remarkable combined weight loss of more than 7½ stone, crediting Slimming World for transforming their health, confidence, and daily lives.
Joanne Smith and Ian Carter, who live together in Mansfield, joined their local Slimming World group together on 23rd April, 2025 at Big Barn Lane Methodist Church, Big Barn Lane, Mansfield NG18 3LJ, where sessions run at 4pm, 5.30pm and 7pm, every Wednesday.
Before joining, both Joanne and Ian found themselves struggling with habits and health issues that were beginning to take a toll on their everyday lives.
Joanne had gained three stone and three dress sizes since moving to the UK and found herself turning to butter, cream, olive oil and savoury snacks like crisps whenever she felt low. Ian, meanwhile, had fallen into a routine of snacking on cheese, cakes and biscuits and was shocked to find himself breathless after climbing just three flights of stairs.
Both realised their eating habits, energy levels and overall wellbeing were slipping further away from where they wanted to be.
For Joanne, the turning point came when she discovered she was now heavier than she had been while pregnant with her second child.
For Ian, it was the moment he collapsed onto the sofa “puffing like he’d run a marathon,” despite believing he was reasonably fit. With Ian also starting a physically demanding job delivering groceries for Iceland, the couple knew it was time to take action.
Together, they embraced Food Optimising, planning meals, cooking side by side and supporting each other every step of the way.
Their favourite dish Slimming World’s Cajun Chicken Pizza, made with the Slimming World Wraps from Iceland and The Food Warehouse, this became a weekly staple, and they soon discovered that healthy eating didn’t mean giving up flavour or enjoyment.
Their results have been extraordinary.
Joanne has lost 3st 5½lbs and is now at her target weight. She says she feels fitter, lighter and more energised than she has in years. Her health has improved dramatically, with no more heartburn, sluggishness or aching joints. She has also achieved Gold Body Magic Award.
Ian has lost 4st 2lbs, also reaching his target. He no longer needs cortisone injections for his knees and ankles for the Arthritis pains he once had, he can climb stairs with ease and has seen a huge improvement in his fitness at work. He credits staying to group each week to share stories, recipes and challenges for keeping him motivated and knowing they are not alone on this journey.
Their consultant described them as “a true joy to have in group, they inspire every single member who walks through the door.”
The couple say that joining Slimming World together has strengthened their commitment and made the journey even more enjoyable. “We eat the same meals, support each other and keep each other on track,” they said. “It’s changed our lives.”
Joanne and Ian hope their story inspires others to take that first step.
“If we can do it together, anyone can,” they said.
For more information about the group or any local groups please reach out and contact Lizzy on 07743 661360.