In our special Summer 2018 Fatloss Magazine edition, we put out a call for women to share their fitness journeys with us.
Whether you’re just starting to fight the fat, or you’re already busy inspiring others with your story, we want to hear from you.
The May winner of a Biogen hamper worth R3,000 is Capetonian Marlaine Witbooi (@buttercup0584), a wife, and mother to two beautiful girls.
Marliane’s main goal was to drop the unwanted body fat she gained after her pregnancy. Following a frustrating stop-start journey, she promised herself that this would be the year when she finally lost the extra kilos, while also adding some shapely muscle. Marliane is now well on her way to making this dream a reality!
What kickstarted your transformation journey?
In 2016 I wanted to fit in proper clothes again after I had my second child, but I fell into what only can be described as a lazy and unhealthy way of living. I knew I had to make a change, but deep down I was afraid to admit the truth; that I was unfit and completely out of shape. What kick-started my lifestyle change was seeing @fitlikemummy’s incredible transformation! I really struggled to maintain momentum in 2017, but after my visit to @fitlikemummy in Johannesburg I decided to really give it everything I’ve got! I enjoyed the holiday season and started 2018 with a positive mindset that this would be my year!
Where exactly do you want to take your transformation journey?
I want to get bikini-ready by December. My goal is not to be ultra skinny, but lean and toned. I love my curves and really want to work on what I have. I don’t want to compare myself to others.
What milestones have you achieved thus far?
I have fallen in love with exercising again! My biggest achievement would have to be my confidence. It is something I have to constantly work on, but it makes all the difference in the world in how I approach my training and my diet. It’s also important to remember one essential fact about exercise and weight loss; working out by itself will not lead to significant weight loss. What and how much you eat has a far greater impact on how much weight you lose.
What does your nutrition look like?
My body reacts very badly to carbohydrates, so I stick to lean protein and vegetables for the majority of my daily calories. Once in a blue moon I will treat myself to something sweet, but I try to be super strict with my diet.
What kind of training are you doing?
I train with weights 3 times a week. I follow that with cardio in the form of either boxing or a mixed martial arts workout. I also do a bootcamp class once a week and I hike with my family once a month. I get my weight lifting workout in at home in the early mornings which is convenient.
What body transformation tips do you have for other women?
Your mindset is everything! Find something that motivates you. There are no shortcuts. The journey is difficult, but it will be worth it in the end! My absolute favourite quote is: “Being fat is hard, losing weight is hard, so pick your hard!” I train with my bestie René Baard (@rbaard73). When we’re not together we FaceTime to keep pushing each other. Look for a gym buddy who will keep you motivated and laughing throughout your sessions. It makes the whole process so much more bearable!
Author: Tanja Schmitz
Founder and Editor of Fitness Magazine. You’ll find her behind her computer or on her bike, dreaming up new ways to improve or create content for you.
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