Exclusive - Claire Young gives her take on the current obesity crisis

Added on 17/02/10

Author: James Congdon – Editor

As seen on reality TV show 'The Apprentice', Claire Young has recently lost a staggering 3.5 stone.

With fingers in many pies, Claire recently launched an up and coming venue management company called Elegant Venues.

Claire has used her focus and dedication, to help her to lose weight. We asked just what she thought about the current obesity crisis when we caught up with her to find out exactly how she achieved such an impressive goal weight.

Claire, you lost a massive 3.5 stone and you look amazing! What was the epiphany moment for you, and what sparked your drive to lose the weight?

Seeing myself on TV and not recognising myself! I remember thinking that my bum looked huge and that I had to address that matter ASAP. I guess it’s fair to say that the way I saw myself, was way out of sync with reality.

We know that busy schedules can be a nightmare when you’re trying to maintain a healthy routine. Are you quite stringent with your routines now? Or have they slipped at times?

After losing so much weight over a period of time, I’ve found it easier to keep it off than losing heaps in a short amount of time. My eating habits have changed but I still have to force myself to train. I sign up for charity runs as an incentive. I have a weakness for anything sweet!

What advice would you give our customers that are looking to lose weight?

Be realistic. You aren’t going to lose the weight instantly and the truth is there is no quick fix. Stick with it, eat less and do more. You will reap the rewards. My second piece of advice would be to have a goal - like a fabulous handbag or outfit, to aim for and keep that in mind. Clear out the cupboards and avoid temptation. Surround yourself with supportive people, get a running partner and remember that people who try to feed you are a big no no!

Government reports state that 12 million of us will be obese by mid 2010. This is pretty scary; do you think we in the UK do enough to fight obesity?

No not at all.

a) Council gyms need to be better and cheaper if they are to stand any chance of encouraging more people to get off their backsides and go to them.

b) Kids and Mums need to be taught how to cook and I also strongly believe that we need to bring back cooking at school. Feeding children proper meals instead of junk is also vital.

c) Food labelling needs to be standardised so it's easier for people to follow.

Who do you think should be accountable for the current child obesity crisis?

Parents and the government are both responsible. Some parents genuinely don't know about nutrition and diet and to be perfectly frank, ministers need to address that and help people. It may seem harsh but some parents are lazy which can have a knock on effect on the child.

Last but not least, we know you are one busy woman but what does Claire Young have in store for 2010. Anything in the pipeline?

I'm working on my business, Elegant Venues, launching a Social Enterprise for young girls, writing a book, am involved in a number of National Enterprise Schemes such as Enterprise Village and National Apprenticeships - and keeping fit!

And of course keeping in touch with our experts here at WeightWorld! We wish you the best of luck Claire!