TRAIN DIRTY, EAT CLEAN

MBABANE – There is no shortcut to successful weight loss but it all boils down to controlled diet and consistency in training. 

Today, the transformation corner is celebrating Bakhetsile Mdluli, who managed to lose 12kg in a space of six months. Like most people, she knew that the only way she could lose weight was through a change of lifestyle but she needed that extra push and leap outside her comfort zone in order to take a stern stand and the desired change. Her story could give you the kick-start to your own fitness and weight loss path.
Here is what she had to say...

Name: Bakhetsile Mdluli from Nkambeni.
Weight lost: “I have lost 12kg since January 2020. I went from 70kg to 58kg in six months.”
When did you start training and what was the motivation behind it?

I started training in January this year. My body shape and my mum pushed me. Before that, I was doing aerobics twice a week but continued to gain weight. One day, I was home and getting dressed and my mother said she wondered how big I would be if I was not exercising at all. Her comments hit me hard and I knew then that I had to work even harder and take charge of my body. My stomach was also bulging and made me feel less confident and more uncomfortable. I enquired from friends and family members who are also runners and they all had a similar answer to my challenge. They said Zithande Athletics Club was all I needed to lose the extra weight. I was also inspired by my friend Kate Maaile who was forever glowing who told me that Zithande was her secret. I joined her the following morning and have not stopped since then.

What challenges have you encountered in your weight loss journey and how have you managed to overcome them?
Well, most people told me that I was crazy waking up at 3:30am everyday and I did not blame them. I also used to think that Zithande people were crazy but now I enjoy the craziness, I never thought I would do a 21km, but I have now done 55km and looking forward to reaching 68km soon.

What is your normal training routine?

I start with a 10km run daily at 4am followed by squats and sit-ups for 20 minutes. We have regular detox programmes on Mondays and Tuesdays. On the weekends, I do long runs with team members.

What are your fitness and weight goals?

Training is a lifetime thing. It is for fitness and health reasons. I am okay with my weight now but I will keep training to maintain good health and fitness. Now that gyms are open, I intend to tone up and work on my upper body.

What nutritional changes have you done since you started focused training?
My plates have changed significantly. I incorporate more vegetables, less meat and even less starch. I have completely cut out sugar in my diet and eat less salt. I also drink a lot of water.

How has your life changed now that you are living a healthy lifestyle?
“I am always happy. I see life differently and react differently. I am calmer with zero anxiety, no sadness and my brain is sharper. I am a happy person.

What advice can you share with people who want to lose weight and build muscles but lack the courage to start?
If you can follow me on Facebook, my meal plans are there and I am inspiring a lot of people. My coach Nsizwa Thwala would always say, ‘ingami lento’ (loosely translated; it’s all about me). I would advise that the best time to start your own fitness and weight loss journey is now. Don’t compete with others but you. Be consistent and committed. Do what you have always been scared to do and you will end up loving it. I repeat, procrastination is a thief of time, start now.

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