Celebrating Every Stone & Pound: Weight Loss Milestones

Weight milestones from 7 to 14 stone

Whether your next target is getting under 14 stone or reaching 8st 6lb, here's how each milestone converts.

How long might it take?

At a sustainable rate of 0.5–1kg (1–2lb) a week, here is a rough guide. Real progress is rarely a straight line.

What changes along the way

• The first half stone: clothes start to feel looser and many people notice more energy.
• 5% of starting weight: NHS guidance notes that losing even this much can improve blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar.
• The first stone: clothes may start to fit differently (this varies a lot from person to person), and everyday activities can feel easier.
• 10% of starting weight: further health benefits, and a good point to focus on maintaining for a few weeks before continuing.

Non-scale victories

• Walking up stairs without getting out of breath
• A belt that needs a new notch
• Better sleep and fewer afternoon slumps
• Choosing fruit over biscuits without thinking about it
• Feeling confident in photos

Write them down — they matter as much as the number on the scales.

Rewarding yourself (without food)

Plan a reward for each milestone: new workout kit, a cinema trip, a massage, a new cookbook, or a day out walking somewhere beautiful.

When progress stalls

Plateaus are normal. Check portion sizes, look for the 'bites, licks and tastes', add a little more movement and be patient. Our psychology of slimming guide can help you through the tougher weeks.