Why did you want to lose weight?
After a serious accident, I kept gaining more and more weight until I finally decided to put an end to it. I just wanted to be happy and in shape again!
"If it doesn't challenge you, it won't change you."
I didn't really feel that big, but when someone would take a picture and show it to me, I started noticing it more and more and, at some point, decided I couldn't let it continue like this.
What did you want to accomplish on your journey?
I discovered a passion for strength training and bodybuilding, and it helped me see that the number on the scale doesn't matter. I was in a bulking phase and my weight slightly increased until the end of February and then, at the beginning of March, I went back into a toning and low-carb diet phase. My goal is to have a well-trained, defined body.
How did you reach your goals?
I started by losing weight using a low-carb method. I do really well with this kind of diet because it allows me to be flexible. As a vegetarian, it's super easy to implement. I never went hungry! You can find fantastic low-carb recipes in the YAZIO app, these are really helpful!
Samantha’s Tips
For several months now, I've continued to stick to a healthy, balanced diet that I adjust depending on my bulking and toning phases. I also continue to completely cut out sugar.
When I'm bulking, I have a pretty significant calorie surplus and a mix of high-carb and high-protein. When I'm toning, I switch to low-carb and high-protein. For me, that means 2 grams of protein per kilo of body weight. I strength train 5 times a week, either at home or at the gym. Twice a week, I add a HIIT workout at the end.
Daily exercise and walks are also part of my routine. With a dog and a horse, it adds up quickly :)! I don't really have proper cheat days, very rarely will I have a planned cheat meal.
How did YAZIO help you?
YAZIO was a great companion because I could track everything with the app. The most important feature for me is the ability to track fat, carbs and protein, as those are essential for muscle building and toning phases. I always know, for example, when I still need protein. The YAZIO recipes also fit well with my diet and are super delicious! I love to use the feature that allows you to create your own recipes. It basically tracks itself the next time I cook it! ;)
Did you have setbacks?
Luckily, I haven't had any setbacks yet. When I put my mind to something, I give it my all. Only discipline will get you to where you want to go.
What advice do you have for other users?
Discipline and determination are the keys to success. Excuses count for nothing. If you hit a plateau, don't let it get you down. It's completely normal! Just keep going, you're doing it for YOU and YOUR HEALTH.
What are your future goals?
I want to continue toning my body, reducing my body fat percentage and building more muscle mass. I don't have a target weight in mind.
Why do you want to tell your story?
I want to show that, once there's that "aha moment", anyone can do it!