The hidden side of weight loss, posture and change

If you’ve ever gone through weight loss – you’ll know it’s not always the smooth, energising process it’s often made out to be.

Yes, it can be empowering. 

Yes, it often leads to more energy, confidence and better movement.

But there’s another side too – a quieter, more physical one that doesn’t get talked about much.

I often hear clients say they feel ‘off’ in their bodies as their shape changes. 

Sometimes, movement feels unfamiliar. 

Balance is different. 

Things ache that didn’t before.

That’s not failure. 

That’s bio-mechanics. 

And that’s why this blog is here.

The postural puzzle – shifting centre of gravity

As we lose body fat – especially around the torso, hips, chest or thighs  – our centre of gravity naturally changes. 

This can subtly shift posture, balance and the way we move.

When we carry more weight at the front of the body (like around the belly or chest), our spine and hips subtly adapt to accommodate that.

As that load lessens, those adaptations begin to reverse – and that can feel strange or even uncomfortable for a while.

Clients often say:

‘I feel like I’m walking differently.’

‘My balance is worse, not better.’

‘I just feel a bit off in my body.’

These are all completely normal sensations as your muscles, joints, and nervous system adjust to a new alignment. 

Your deep stabilisers – especially your core, glutes and pelvic floor – are working under new conditions. 

They need time (and the right kind of support) to re – calibrate.

Where does the fat go – and why are you visiting the toilet more?

As your body uses stored fat for energy, it breaks it down into smaller components – through a process called oxidation. 

This mostly happens during movement, rest, and normal daily metabolism. 

The by-products of that process are; 

• Carbon dioxide – which leaves the body when you breathe
• Water – which leaves via urine, sweat, and yes, even your breath

So while it might sound strange, it’s true – fat is broken down and leaves the body in multiple natural ways. 

Not just through exercise or sweating, but also through everyday breathing and toilet trips.

Let’s talk about poo – because it’s part of the picture

While fat itself doesn’t leave the body directly through your bowels, many people do experience more frequent or more regular bowel movements when they’re losing weight – especially if they’ve made changes to their diet like eating more fibre, veg, or drinking more water.

A healthier gut means more efficient digestion and elimination.

A fibre-rich diet increases stool bulk and frequency.

Moving more helps stimulate digestion and gut motility.

So yes – if you’re finding yourself ‘going’ more often, that can be part of your body simply functioning better. 

It’s not fat loss in the literal sense, but it’s very much part of the bigger picture of metabolic health.

Why this matters

Understanding what’s going on inside your body makes a big difference to how you experience change. 

When we know it’s normal to feel unsteady or not quite ourselves during weight loss, we can meet it with patience, not panic.

This journey isn’t just about size or shape – it’s about re-connection.

It’s about listening to your body, adjusting your movement, and finding new strength from the inside out.

There might be moments of discomfort – physically and emotionally – as your body catches up with its new self. 

That’s not failure. 

That’s transformation.

The holistic view

If you’re on this path right now, here’s what I want you to remember:

Your body is adapting beautifully, even if it feels clunky at times.

This is a transition – not just physically, but mentally too.

Movement is your best friend during this stage.

You are not doing it wrong if you don’t feel amazing every step of the way.

Sam ‘loving your work’ Hobbs