My fitness journey 💪🏋️‍♀️🌱

Hi babes, I truly understand if you're feeling stuck, looking at your body and wishing for a change. That's exactly where I was. For so long, I was caught in a cycle of unhealthy habits – endless cardio, restricting food to the point of starving myself, and just feeling miserable. I'd lose a little weight, but it was never sustainable, and honestly, I wasn't happy with how I looked or felt. My 'before' pictures weren't just about weight; they were about a mindset that needed a complete overhaul. The turning point came when I realized I deserved more than constantly complaining. I needed a real, lasting transformation, not just quick fixes. That's when I stopped focusing solely on cardio and started exploring strength training. Walking into the gym for the first time to actually lift was intimidating, but it was the best decision I ever made. I started with simple compound movements, watching videos, and learning proper form. It wasn't about being perfect from day one, but about showing up and being open to learning. My biggest breakthrough actually came with understanding nutrition. I used to think 'less food equals better results,' but that couldn't be further from the truth, especially when you're trying to build a strong, 'thick fit' or 'slim thick' physique. I learned about macronutrients – proteins, carbs, and fats – and how eating enough of the right things fuels your body for muscle growth and recovery. This was the foundation of my balanced approach. I decided to embark on structured phases, much like a personal '75 soft before and after' challenge, but tailored to my own goals. My first big step was a bulk. This meant intentionally eating in a calorie surplus to build muscle. It was tough mentally, seeing the scale go up, but I knew it was necessary to achieve the big booty and overall muscularity I desired. I focused on progressive overload in my lifts, particularly for glutes and legs. By April 2021, I was consistently lifting and seeing incredible changes, not just in my body, but in my strength and confidence. After a successful bulk in 2023, I moved into a cut. This wasn't like my old starving habits. It was a controlled caloric deficit, still prioritizing protein to preserve muscle, aimed at revealing the muscle I had built and getting lean. It’s where you start to see all that hard work truly pay off! I did a small cut in Fall 2023 and loved seeing the definition emerge. Now, I'm in a maintenance phase, enjoying a balanced approach that allows me to sustain my physique without feeling deprived. It’s about consistency, listening to my body, and enjoying the process. My journey taught me that body transformation isn't a race; it's a marathon of self-discovery, discipline, and embracing vulnerability. Don't be afraid to start, explore new routines at your gym/physical fitness center, and find what makes you feel strong and confident in your own skin – even in your favorite gym leggings! Your journey is unique, but the power to change is within you.