Transformation
Transformation comes in different shapes and sizes. It looks different for every person.
In my earlier 20s, I was diagnosed with PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome). My hormones were imbalanced, and the underlining cause was stress. I carried a load of responsibilities from a young age and always held myself to extremely high standards. In a way, this costed my health and unfortunately, weight gain.
I lost my drive for life, energy to show up and be myself. I knew I had to do something about it.
I left for Hawaii for 3 months at age 25 and gave my mind and body what it needed. I lost that excess weight but gained it back within a year of returning from paradise. The issues of PCOS came back with my unhealthy eating habits and lack of movement.
I competed for my first pageant in November 2019 and tried to look my best. I could have put more work into my physical self. My second and final time competing for Miss. WA USA got postponed to March 2021. It was January of this year when I knew I was not in good shape. My 3D body scan showed 26% of body fat, which is the highest I have ever been at.
That month, I co-led a detox program with Elina Basaraba, founder of FITnello. Halfway through this program, I shared with her about my upcoming competition. She stepped in as the first trainer to help me prepare physically for the competition. Shortly after, my friend Amber Fowler brought on board Chelsea Hardin, to further assist, keep me accountable and give valuable insight which was fundamental to achieve the results I have.
Elina is certified and has trained with world-leading trainers. Chelsea is a 1st runner-up on the Miss. USA stage, who runs a 12-week transformation program now all over the nation. Women who join reach incredible results. Both are extremely inspirational and ensure you reach your desired results.
I was given everything to reach the results I have. It was up to me to show every day and give it my all. Regardless of how I felt, I was at the gym 6 days each week for 8 weeks straight.
I trained:
Glutes on Mondays.
Shoulders and abs on Tuesdays.
Back and biceps on Wednesdays.
Glutes and hamstrings on Thursdays.
Upper body HIIT on Fridays.
Lower body HIIT on Saturdays.
Sundays were rest days, and I did nothing.
They say nutrition is 80% of the work, which is true. Meal prepping was a must, and most of the time, I traveled with my own food container. Eating out was out of the picture, and late-night hangs with a jug of ice cream was not an option.
It was vital to eat at least 20-30 grams of protein in every meal. I did not starve myself. In fact, I ate 4-5 times a day. I fell in love with plain Greek yogurts topped with a tablespoon of my favorite nut butter and a few slices of banana or a handful of blueberries. Breakfast in the morning was a must. I indulged in a cup of cooked egg whites with a ton of veggies, along with oats or a slice of toast. Eating after 7:45 pm was prohibited.
Consistency is key. I had to put in the work and bypass what everyone else was doing. I had one goal in front of me, and this goal kept me sharp. I found freedom in structure and realized my body loves routine.
This may not be sustainable for an average person, but I lost 10% of body fat in two months. I gained lean muscle and felt my strongest on that stage. Achieving a goal is the best feeling ever.
I took value out of my process toward transformation. Perhaps you want to physically feel your best and strongest, and do not know if it is possible. I am here to say – IT IS! If I could do it, you can do it as well. I would not suggest starting out hard as I did. I was already exercising leading up to that moment, and it was easier to transition training like an Olympic athlete.
What goal do you want to achieve? WRITE IT DOWN.
What is the first step to start? WRITE IT DOWN.
Who can you reach out to right now to keep you accountable? TEXT THEM.
Would hiring a coach be a better suitable option for you? SEND AN EMAIL FOR CONSULTATION TO THAT COACH NOW.
There is no reason to wait for tomorrow. Starting today is key. I failed multiple times by telling myself – I will do it tomorrow, and it never happened.
Your dream is worthy of pursuit. Keep it in the front of your mind. Please do not neglect it or think it does not need attention. This desire toward greatness buried deep within is given to you as a gift. Bring it to life and take baby steps TODAY to reach your goal.
I believe in you and will always cheer you on.
Your coach,
KK
