MANY BRIDES-TO-BE aim to lose weight before the wedding, but what’s the best way to go about it?

There are lots of diets around – The Zone, The LA, the now unfashionable Atkins, and The No Carb are just are few examples – but most of them are fads at best and dangerously unhealthy at worst. Nowadays there really is no secret to weight loss waiting to be discovered, because we have the knowledge to understand what is good for us and what isn’t. It may be a pretty boring answer, but deep down we all know that maintaining a balanced diet and regular exercise is the key to being fit, healthy, and true to your natural body shape.*

Diet clubs

Although exercise is a well-known way to relieve stress and tension, taking the decision to lose weight at the same time as planning your wedding can be stressful in itself! So you may find it helpful to join a diet club in order to keep yourself motivated. The main benefits are that not only will you gain the strength to stick with it from being around fellow members, but you will also have access to advice and support.

Weight Watchers

The national club is popular because it is easy to follow and allows a certain amount of freedom of choice, as it works by following a points system. With the enormous range of branded foods on offer, it's not difficult to follow even for the most disorganised eater. There's also an online diet club if you can't get to local meetings. www.weightwatchers.co.uk

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Scottish Slimmers

Based around a slimming club where regular attendance is essential, you meet like-minded people and listen to a talk by the instructor, after which you get weighed. Classes are supportive and the diet is sensible and doesn't count calories or points, with some interesting recipes provided. There's an excellent online forum and support network. www.scottishslimmers.com

Working out

For those who prefer to go it alone, then treating yourself to a gym membership is a great way to get fit before your forthcoming nuptials. Not only will you have every imaginable piece of equipment at your disposal but if you prefer you can join a class such as aerobics, spin, yoga or step. In addition most gyms have tennis courts, swimming pools or football pitches; and if you want help from an expert who can tailor an exercise plan specifically for you, then take advantage of hiring the services of a personal trainer.