When I looked down the other day and saw the belly of a middle aged woman bulging out below my belt, I knew it was time to action again.

It's 12 weeks to Christmas and I'm the wrong side of 35.

I don't want to be standing at my wardrobe door wondering what's going to fit me for the staff 'do'. I don't want to sit down to my turkey
dinner with my waistband straining at every mouthful.

I want to be able to run up the stairs without having to have a coronary team on stand-by.

That's why I've given myself a 12-week Christmas countdown. Twelve whole weeks to lose a bit of weight, tone up and hopefully get back some of the confidence that has been ebbing away just as surely as my weight has crept up.

I went to Flamingo Fitness to speak to personal trainer and fitness expert Bernie Doran about my predicament. Was I embarrassed asking for help? Of course. Having said that, a few minutes into the conversation I'd forgotten all about it.

Because she's female herself, Bernie understands exactly how these things can happen.

Going back to square one isn't easy but I've discovered that taking the first step, while it may be the most difficult, is one that can bring the most satisfaction.

I've signed up to see Bernie every week for 12 weeks - and I've promised to do exactly what she tells me.

The key to Bernie's approach is partnership.

It's up to me to be as committed as she is. That means doing as I'm told, not drinking alcohol and watching my diet.

Those 'in the know' say that once you've started exercising, you're less likely to over-eat because you're psychologically feeling better.

That's what I'm counting on.

The first step in any weight/fitness campaign is to find out exactly what you're dealing with.

To say I got a shock when my weight and measurements were taken is an understatement - but it was the kick up the proverbial that I needed.
I knew I'd weight on but I'm heavier now that I've ever been in my life. If that's not enough to have anyone reaching for the trainers, nothing is.

Measurements were also taken around the vital areas - chest, arms, waist and (gasp!) hips.

I'm going to keep the vital stats under wraps for now but I'll 'fess up' after 12 weeks are over. Obviously I'm hoping for a dramatic change.

Once the tape measure was put away, it was in to the gym.

Every session will begin and end with some stretching. When you think about it, how often do we truly stretch our muscles?

The Flamingo has a great 'stretch' machine that really extends your back, shoulders and legs (thankfully not at the same time!). Sitting at a desk, I'm often bothered with stiff/sore neck and shoulders and I must admit it was pure bliss to stretch them properly.

Bernie also showed me a set of non-machine based stretches for my back, tummy, bottom and legs.

After that it was on to a treadmill for a bit of gentle walking, followed by a bit of cycling, cross-training and sit-ups.
Bernie was by my side throughout, allowing her to assess my fitness (or lack of it).

This will help her to provide me with a tailormade fitness programme next week.

In the meantime, she's given me some homework to do. I've promised to do my stretches every morning and every night.

I'm already feeling taller - but then again, it's probably all in the mind...

BERNIE DORAN is a personal trainer at Flamingo Fitness. To book a session or to find out more, contact her at the Flamingo on 2565 9598.