Meet Paula, a keen adventurer and avid explorer who embarked on an incredible journey towards better health and well-being. She's here to kick off our Walking and Wellness campaign by sharing her own personal story. Through a combination of hiking adventures and mindful nutrition, Paula has successfully shed an incredible 100lbs, transforming herself into a healthier, happier version. Her story is a testament to the power of embracing an active lifestyle and making positive choices when it comes to nutrition. Let's dive into Paula's incredible journey and find inspiration in her remarkable transformation. 

Where It All Began  

Growing up, I’ve always loved food—probably a bit too much. As a child and teenager, I always had challenges with my weight. Thankfully, school sports, horseback riding, and taekwondo helped me keep my weight somewhat in check. But after finishing high school and starting a year-long internship, everything changed. I stopped exercising altogether and paid little attention to what or how much I ate. Junk food became my go-to, and physical activity became a distant memory. Despite a few half-hearted attempts to become healthier, the numbers on the scale kept climbing until I hit 293lbs —far too much for my 6ft frame.  

The Turning Point  

Something had to give. While my bloodwork was fine, my stamina was awful, I felt like I had zero muscle mass, and shopping for clothes had become a frustrating ordeal. I knew I needed a change. The decision to transform my lifestyle came almost spontaneously. Surprisingly, not setting a rigid goal turned out to be a blessing—it removed the pressure and made the journey feel less daunting. With a new attitude and determination, I set off on a path toward better health and fewer pounds.  

My first step was to educate myself on balanced nutrition. I swapped unhealthy staples for healthier alternatives—cutting back on full-fat options, incorporating more vegetables, increasing my protein intake, and reducing carbs. Grocery shopping became an educational experience as I began scrutinizing nutritional labels and gradually overhauled my entire diet. I also started experimenting with new recipes that were not only nutritious but also delicious, making the change feel less like a chore and more like an adventure.  

The Power of Healthy Eating  

Eating healthier brought steady progress on the scale. Over time, my diet transitioned to include more vegetarian and vegan meals, and by 2021, I fully committed to a vegan lifestyle. Despite common misconceptions, going vegan was neither bland nor lacking in protein. Like with any dietary shift, it simply required a bit of curiosity and effort. Foods like fruits, vegetables, legumes, tofu, and soy products became staples in my meals, providing all the nutrients I needed while leaving me feeling full and energized.  

Going vegan also sharpened my awareness of what I was putting into my body. Processed foods became a thing of the past, and the benefits extended beyond just physical health. It felt good to know I was making choices that aligned with environmental sustainability and animal welfare. The result? A win-win for both my body and my conscience.  

Rediscovering Movement  

As the kilos started to drop, I found myself gravitating back toward exercise. I joined a gym and explored different classes until I discovered a mix of strength and endurance training that worked for me. Every small milestone in the gym felt like a massive victory, boosting my confidence and motivating me to keep going.  

But my love for movement didn’t stop there. I also fell in love with hiking—a far cry from my childhood hatred of it. I discovered how refreshing it was to explore nature, both physically and mentally. Not only did hiking burn calories and build endurance, but it also served as an incredible stress reliever.  

I started small, aiming for 5,000 steps per day. Then I upped it to 10,000 steps, and now I strive for 12,000 daily. Using apps like Outdooractive and Komoot, I found scenic trails and spent countless weekends on hikes ranging from 6 -12 miles. As my fitness improved, so did my ambition—I eventually tackled my first long-distance hike: 220km (137 miles) along Ireland’s stunning Kerry Way. That journey, taken solo, was life-changing.  

Pushing Boundaries  

Hiking became the gateway to other challenges. I began signing up for events like mega hikes, trail runs and even completed a half marathon. While no one needs to participate in competitive events to stay active, the camaraderie and sense of achievement when crossing the finish line are indescribable. Macs Adventure and Abenteuer Wege trips instill a similar feeling. 

Through it all, I’ve learned that regular exercise does more than just strengthen your body—it energizes your spirit and boosts your confidence. Whether it’s hitting the gym or hitting the trail, finding an activity you love can change your life.  

Your Journey Awaits  

If there’s one thing I’ve taken from this experience, it’s that transformation doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Take it step by step, experiment, and most importantly, do it for yourself. Whether it’s swapping out junk food for healthier choices, rediscovering movement, or simply lacing up your hiking boots, these small changes can lead to big results.  

So, what are you waiting for? Step outside, take a deep breath, and let the journey to your best self, begin. The trail is waiting! 

Paula’s Fitness Tips: 

Start slow, be kind to yourself, and choose an activity you genuinely enjoy. The first few weeks will be challenging—you’ll need to push through as you work on building a routine. But trust me, it gets easier with time. Whether it’s hiking, aerobics, or yoga, any activity is better than none, and you’ll soon notice your endurance improving. 

Consistency is the secret to success. Embrace every drop of sweat and watch as both your body and mind transform. Celebrate even the smallest milestones—they’ll keep you motivated along the way. And remember, setbacks are part of the journey - we’re all human. Progress takes time—you didn’t gain weight or lose fitness overnight, and improvement won’t happen overnight either.  

Be patient and trust the process. Step by step, you’ll become a stronger, healthier version of yourself—one that will carry you well into the years ahead! 

Discover some of Paula’s Favorite Self-guided Hiking Trips 

Kerry Way, Ireland: Experience the sensational beauty of Ireland's longest and most iconic walking trail, the Kerry Way. Navigate rolling green hills, rugged mountains, and stunning coastal landscapes as you immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of County Kerry. With its charming villages, ancient ruins, and warm hospitality, the Kerry Way is a truly magical journey that will leave you awestruck at every turn. 

Discover Kerry Way Self-guided Hiking Trips >

Jotunheimen National Park, Norway: Experience the adventure of a lifetime in Jotunheimen National Park, home to some of Norway's most iconic hiking trails. Known as the "Home of the Giants," this stunning park features dramatic peaks, deep valleys, and sparkling glaciers. Hike the renowned Besseggen Ridge for extraordinary views of emerald-green lakes and rugged landscapes or explore the serene trails that wind through this untouched wilderness. With its combination of beauty and challenge, Jotunheimen offers an unforgettable Nordic hiking experience.

Discover the Jotunheimen National Park Self-guided Hiking Trip >