What she’s doing now(February 2004): Straight-talking Cathy issued a no-nonsense ultimatum on the day Season Two finished taping in December 2002: "I told myself I will play with 10 pounds but if I gain any more than that, then I’ll hire (body-builders) Brian and Donna again because they are tag-team pit bulls." The self-imposed threat has worked, but maintaining her weight is as much effort as taking it off was in the first place, says Cathy, who admits she neared the limits of her 10-pound danger zone during Christmas 2003’s festivities.
She relies on three essentials to stay fit: the herbalist who doles out traditional teas and minerals for energy boosts; a diet rich in chicken, fruits and vegetables, and a personal trainer. "I always have a personal trainer, always. The reason is, there’s no damn way I’d go into the gym to do training without one."
She’s also given up alcohol. "That’s something where you have to say, ’I hear you knocking but you can’t come in.’ That can’t even be casual, that has to be something that’s very rare," she says, acknowledging that the transition from being someone who drank half a dozen beers during every golf game to a teetotaller was excruciating. In fact, it’s meant not socializing with friends who drink a lot. Her advice to others, "You have to take your time, wean yourself off it slowly."
She’s still a smoker, but doesn’t light up as frequently, mainly because her new fitness level has renewed her energy. "You get busier, you do more things. You’re not parking your arse in front of the TV having a smoke. I’m more motivated to do more things."
What keeps her going: Being an influence on other people. She’s frequently recognized by strangers in airports and supermarkets, and is especially mindful of being a good role model for teenagers.
What she learned during six months of taking it off: "What we did was unveil the old Cathy. The old Cathy was a high-octane person who did things for her community. As soon as I saw the old Cathy come back, the one I know and I miss, that’s when my whole world opened up again."
Cathy’s best fitness strategies: Cathy prefers not to be specific about her diet or exercise routine because she feels individuals need to discover what works best for them. But she has heaps to say about preparation and commitment.
"First off, if it’s not right in your head, don’t even consider it. It has to absolutely be there in your mind that this is front and centre. If you’re going to say you’re too stressed, or too busy, then you’re too busy for yourself and you’re not going to do it. Don’t waste your time or money:"
After that, you must be prepared to expend time and some money on your weight loss venture. "You had your body free, you let it go, the second time around it’s gonna cost cash," she says bluntly. "When you’re eating chicken that costs you $40 a box and you’re gonna blow through chicken every four days, think about it. And be prepared to go grocery shopping every two days, if you’re going to eat the fresh fruits and vegetables you need.
"So right there, time, money and your head. If you’re not prepared to do those three things then we don’t have to talk anymore."
