My lifestyle change began on 6 February 2025, guided by a wonderful doctor who used DNA analysis to help shape a healthier approach to eating and exercise. Adjusting to the new eating plan took time, and exercise — which had previously been non-existent — started at just two to three sessions per week, focusing on basic strength and resistance training.
Every two weeks, I completed an InBody analysis. While I was losing weight, I was also losing lean muscle mass, and my basal metabolic rate (BMR) was decreasing. This was a concern, as maintaining muscle is key to a healthy metabolism. It became a constant balancing act between training more and eating enough to support my body.
My doctor then advised me to start walking as part of my routine. I began walking between 5 and 10 km per week. While this helped slow down the loss of muscle and BMR, there was still no real improvement throughout my journey up until mid-January 2026.
I realised I needed help to improve my fitness and metabolic rate. I knew exercise could increase lean muscle and boost metabolism, but I wasn’t seeing the results on my own. Every Saturday morning at around 6:20, I would head to the gym and notice the Run/Walk For Life members out walking and running in Garsfontein — it looked like such a positive and enjoyable environment.
I officially joined RWFL Garsfontein and completed my first walk on 21 January 2026. Petro and Tienie were incredibly organised and welcoming. I still remember that there were 84 members gathered that day — it was an amazing experience.
One of the best parts of RWFL Garsfontein is how often the club meets: Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. In the beginning, I couldn’t attend Mondays due to working in the south of Johannesburg, but I joined on Wednesdays and Thursdays, completing my first 5 km in that first week.
On 24 January, we had a club event. I planned to walk 5 km, but after missing a turn, I ended up completing a 10 km walk with a group of wonderful, encouraging ladies. Never in my wildest dreams did I think that would be possible.
Petro then encouraged me to enter a 10 km race the following weekend. I was nervous, but with her support and the encouragement of other members, I went for it — and I was so proud of myself for finishing.
Walking with RWFL has now become an addiction. I attend sessions on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays (weather permitting), as well as Saturdays for club events, races, or group walks. What started as 5 km per week has grown into an average of 20 km per week.
Making new friends and keeping up with their pace became my new motivation. I’ve seen incredible improvements in my fitness, endurance, and self-confidence. I feel stronger, and I’m constantly pushing myself further than I ever thought possible — all while genuinely enjoying the journey.
On Friday, 20 March 2026, I went for a check-up with my doctor. As part of the routine, she did my measurements and asked what I had changed since my last visit in 2025. I told her I had joined RWFL — something she had originally encouraged by suggesting I walk more.
The results were incredible. My BMR and lean muscle mass had improved back to normal levels, and my fat loss had increased. While my overall weight hadn’t changed significantly, my body composition had transformed. I am now stronger, with more muscle, a higher metabolic rate, and less body fat.
I truly believe this change is due to increased walking — and more importantly, because of RWFL Garsfontein. It’s not just the name of a club that makes the difference, but the people. The camaraderie, encouragement, and kindness make you want to keep coming back, all while enjoying a sport I now can’t imagine living without.
If I have one regret, it’s that I didn’t join RWFL Garsfontein sooner.
Thank you to all the members for making every moment so enjoyable and worthwhile.