When I started
this fitness journey it was never my intention to compete and become a role
model to women over 40. It was purely a
form of therapy and escapism. I’ve
always been fit and healthy but not many people know that I am a qualified
Personal Trainer, studied Fitness and Nutrition and even taught aerobics and spinning
years ago, but moved in Montessori teaching later.
After tragically losing my husband in 2012 I
completely stopped training for over a year.
Eventually I joined the gym in June 2013 and I threw myself into
training to heal from my emotional pain.
As my body grew stronger, so did I emotionally.
People started noticing the changes and better
still so did I, and I loved it.
After doing an
online 12week challenge I loved the way my body was looking and I needed or
should I say, I craved a new motivation and challenge and decided to try
entering a bodybuilding competition. I
prepped for 5 weeks and entered my first, the fitness bikini over 35 division
and came 5th. Next I did Body Beautiful fitness over 35 and
came second. I was hooked, I loved it
and so the journey began. That was toward the end of 2013 and I have placed or
won a few titles over the last few years.
2014 4th IFBB Jozi Classic
2nd
Boksburg class toned bikini
1st IFBB Central Gauteng
toned bikini over 35
3rd NABBA Provincials
toned bikini
2nd Rossi Class toned
bikini over 45
2nd Body Beautiful toned
bikini over 35
Early in 2015 I
injured myself and underwent a double hernia repair with mesh and honestly did
not know how my body would heal and if I would ever be able to train abdominals
again. But through perseverance and
steady progress I was back on stage with a few months and entered 3
competitions before entering IBFF South African champs where I won the fitness
over 40 category and was chosen for Universe champs in Bari in Italy and there
I placed 2nd.
What I have
learned throughout my experiences so far is that I am so much stronger than
what I think, we all are. Age does in no
way define you, neither does your circumstances. You are capable of so much and taking care of
yourself should be your top priority. It is never too late to start and I am
passionate about helping people to be the best version of themselves.
