Kelly Clarkson: I was ready to lose weight

Kelly Clarkson insists that she finally tackled her extra pounds because she was ready to lose weight.

The American Idol winner debuted her new slimmed down physique recently.

She told Life & Style magazine that she lost weight for her own benefit and not because of her job.

"I didn't lose weight for work," she told the publication. "I did it for me."

Another incentive has been Clarkson's relationship with boyfriend Brandon Blackstock, who she has been dating since last year.

"I've always fluctuated," the 30-year-old singer admitted. "But now I'm in a happy relationship. He gets my life. I'm just more active with him."

Clarkson, who had been single for six years before meeting Blackstock, said although they enjoy spending time together she is not a fan of working out with him despite sharing the same trainer.

"We did that once, and I don't like huffin' and puffin' in front of my man and looking all red and gross and sweating," she said.