Kathryn Thomas has hailed the "brave" Operation Transformation leaders as she explained her inspiring Lycra Instagram post.
The RTE star shared a snap where she posed in her Lycra with a motivational message, reminding people that healthy bodies "come in all shapes and sizes".
And speaking about the post, she told the Six O'Clock Show: "I just think they come out every year when they are so lacking in confidence they take the step and they apply to be on the show.
"When they walk out for the first time it's the hardest thing to do.
"But actually what people tend to forget is filling out the application form four or five months beforehand is the hardest step.
"That is you basically admitting that something is wrong, you're admitting that you need help.
"You come, you're chosen as one of the leaders they all know what they're getting themselves into, they all know what the program involves.
"And actually that first step out into your Lycra is not easy at all."
And Kathryn said that she wanted to face her own fears by stepping out in the revealing outfit.
She added: "I always felt that they were the bravest people in Ireland and people said to me would you ever do it?
"Because I'm in hair and make up for two hours getting into the Spanx and getting the toes done and everything else.
"So I just said could I do it and I just went do you know what I will."
