Dropping from a woman's size 22 to around a 12 has proved an incredible journey for Ipswich single mum of three Nicci Sanders.

Ipswich Star: Nicci before and after the weight loss.Nicci before and after the weight loss. (Image: Nicci Sanders)

In 2019, while "struggling" to get her socks on, Ms Sanders said she thought enough was enough and at 33 she had to get fit.

By herself, she started from the couch to a 5K journey and the weight soon started dropping off.

Ipswich Star: Nicci Sanders showing off her weight loss.Nicci Sanders showing off her weight loss. (Image: Archant)

"The way it makes you feel by accomplishing it is amazing," she said

"If you start small and get 8,000 steps and then next try to increase it and you will follow on and really see an impact."

What pushed her further was when, under lockdown, she was with a partner who abused her trust.

"I escaped in April 2020," Ms Sanders said. "It was my first relationship post-marriage.

"Suffolk police have really helped and really did support me in lockdown."

This experience, she feels, gave her a "real push" to start running more than ever.

"You get mental clarity," she added.

Ipswich Star: Nicci Sanders with two of her children, Livvy and Ozzie Berncastel.Nicci Sanders with two of her children, Livvy and Ozzie Berncastel. (Image: Archant)

Her family have also been so proud of her and have also got into healthy fitness.

"As soon as my son turned 16, he joined a gym and now is working," she said.

"My children really like to see an active mum and have such pride in me."

Ms Sanders has not stopped there and is now thinking of competing in weightlifting.

Ipswich Star: Ms Sanders has lost four stones over three years and used to weight 16 stones before moving to a healthier weight for 4ft 10 inchesMs Sanders has lost four stones over three years and used to weight 16 stones before moving to a healthier weight for 4ft 10 inches (Image: Archant)

She has got a personal trainer and does squats of 60 kilos, legs of 150 kilos, 80 kilos worth of shoulder weights called hack squatting and 120 kilos thigh thrusts.

"This is in seven months and I never lifted weights before," she said.

Ipswich Star: Nicci before and after the weight loss.Nicci before and after the weight loss. (Image: Nicci Sanders)

"I would really absolutely love to do a weight lifting competition. That is something to do work towards."

Ms Sanders has lost four stone over three years. She used to weigh 16 stone before moving to a healthier weight for her 4ft 10 inches height.

Ipswich Star: Nicci Sanders has lost over 4 stone through hard work and determination.Nicci Sanders has lost over 4 stone through hard work and determination. (Image: Archant)