Here’s a quick Q&A with Renier Lombard, our men’s transformation 5th place winner in our latest 8-week Ultimate You Challenge.
- Give us a short history of your journey to health and fitness before the challenge.
I have always tried to be fit and healthy but with my businesses and stressful work environment it is very easy make that the excuse for making unhealthy decisions. It was far easier to say: “I am so tired, I think I will give gym a skip today.” Or: “I am in a hurry so let me just grab some fast food somewhere quickly instead of preparing a wholesome meal at home.” And before I knew it I had acquired some very bad habits to the detriment of my health and my weight.
- What prompted you to join the ULTIMATE YOU Transformation Challenge?
A friend of mine participated in previous challenges and told me how much he benefited from the experience. I knew I had to make some effort to change my lifestyle and thought it this was my chance.
- Give us a quick overview of the nutrition and eating plan that you followed during the challenge.
I basically stuck to good quality proteins and mostly veggies with a little bit of carbs only. I cut out sugar and fizzy drinks – even diet sodas – completely. Also no fruit juices which I used to drink a lot. I prepared my meals in advance and had six meals per day. This way I was not led into temptation because I was hungry and did not have the right food easily accessible.
- Give us a quick overview of the training and exercise plan that you followed during the challenge.
I tried to get to gym 5 times a week but with my traveling it was sometimes a huge challenge in itself. Training two major muscle groups per day. I however believe that success is achieved 80% in the kitchen and 20% in the gym.
- Did you use any supplements or do anything else worth mentioning to help you get results?
I had I good quality protein shake readily available so that in the event I did not have time to physically eat something I could at least take a shake to stabilise my blood sugar and avoid cravings for the wrong stuff.
- If you could give 3 pieces of advice to future challengers, what would they be?
If you are not in a happy place as far as your health and your weight is concerned you owe it to yourself to get there! Nobody can do it for you – you are in charge of the body The Creator gave you and it is your responsibility to look after it. Come to that point where you make that decision for YOU and then just stick to the plan. Perseverance is key. Before you know it 8 weeks and then 6 months and then years have passed and you are all the better for it.
- What did you find most valuable about your experience?
If I had never started I would still be in the grips of my old lifestyle. The Challenge gave me the opportunity to kick-start my happy healthy life and I am very thankful for that!
