A word from Rachael:
”If you’ve been following me on Instagram, or reading my blog, you know that you girls are my main inspiration & motivation.
I hold the Share Your Journey Challenge every two months which lets me read some amazing stories like Micaela’s.
Micaela is a lovely 34y/o who has struggled with her weight her whole life until she found my program. This is what motivates me to work hard, to help you lovely girls, and I couldn’t be more proud of her for reaching her goals!
1. Did you know which body type you are before doing the Body Type Quiz? Have you ever tried exercising according to your body type before you started the program?
Micaela: No. I didn’t know I was an endomorph! I just knew that what I was doing wasn’t working! I felt like I was doing all the right things – cycling, weights, HIIT, the Kayla Itsines’ SWEAT program… but I wasn’t.
I came across your program late one night in a fit of despair and desperation. Every PT I went to just gave me lots of weight-bearing exercises and looked at me like I was crazy when I said I didn’t want to be so bulky.
2. What was your fitness routine before you started the program? What made you change it?
Micaela: I have tried many things. I used the Kayla Itsines SWEAT program for a few years – three 28-min HIIT workouts a week, one PT session (lots of weights) and a few runs/some cycling.
I have always walked, but not as the main source of exercise. I was so frustrated with my body shape! Yes, I was toned, fit and healthy, but felt very muscular and unhappy with my body shape.
I came across your program late one night in a fit of despair.
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3. How did you find out about the program and what convinced you to try it out?
Micaela: I found your program online when I was researching body types. It felt like a prayer had been answered! I liked that you were Australian and that the program included lots of walking, a form of exercise I actually enjoy. I hated doing all the weights and jumping around that I was doing previously.
I admit, I was a little skeptical that you could achieve such great results with mainly walking (as well as the running and workouts), but thought I had nothing to lose as I was desperate!
I think the tone of the program and the way you shared your own experience with PTs made me trust you.
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4. When did you first start seeing results? How did you track your progress and how did you feel when you noticed those first results?
Micaela: Within the first two weeks, I definitely noticed a change. I felt much less ‘puffy’ (perhaps from eating less carbohydrates) and my clothes felt looser.
However, I first saw concrete results in about week 4. I tracked my progress using photographs. Note: not something I would normally do! However, you suggested it in the notes, so I took photos each week.
It wasn’t until I looked at the photos progressively that I saw a big change! My abs were becoming more defined and my legs had slimmed down.
5. What was your absolute favourite part of the program and why?
Micaela: I enjoyed the fact that you could walk. The exercise was far more enjoyable. I struggle with depression.
However, I found that getting out of bed in the morning, into the sunshine (Vitamin D) and walking (rather than going into another dark room and punishing myself with heavy weights) has improved my mental health.
6. What was the most challenging part of the program? What motivated you to keep going?
Micaela: The most challenging part is that it is a slower program. I had to adopt the mindset that it was a marathon, not a sprint.
At first, you feel you are not getting anywhere. However, if you take photographs of yourself, you do notice a change and it keeps you motivated.
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7. How did you feel after finishing the program? What are your goals for the future?
Micaela: I felt really amazed that I could achieve these results without having to punish myself in a gym six times a week!
My goals for the future are to continue the program, incorporating some of the ‘workouts’, and work on my relationship with food.
I would also try and observe the rest days. I didn’t, and I think this is key for long-term maintenance.
8. Are you happy with what you have achieved so far? How do you plan on continuing your fitness journey?
Micaela: I am very happy! I never thought I could achieve this body shape – slim legs and arms (I have always had big arms) and a toned abdomen.
I plan to continue with the Lean Legs program, sharing it with friends (recommending it) and perhaps partaking in some of your challenges.
9. Would you recommend the program to your friends? Why? What makes it stand out?
Micaela: Absolutely! I have already done so! It stands out for being friendly and approachable. It is also far more enjoyable than what I was doing previously!
I love that you are an Aussie and you shared your own story and struggles. I was also touched to receive a personal email from you.
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10. Do you have any advice for the girls that are about to start their fitness journey?
Micaela: Treat it as a lifestyle change, rather than an eight-week program. I went very hard for my first round, as I was keen to get results.
This included extra walks on the workout days and skipping rest days. I would not advise doing this, as I had a big crash after the first round! Follow the program! Push yourself, but be gentle and listen to your body. If you need rest, rest!
Thank you Micaela for sharing your story with us! I hope her story inspires you as it did me, she is really amazing!
Love Rachael Xx
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