Here’s a quick Q&A with Nicolette Dicks who came 2nd in the women’s transformation category in the latest 8-week Ultimate You Challenge.
Give us a short history of your journey to health and fitness before the challenge.
I fell ill in late 2015, being sick for almost 8 months had left me feeling quite frustrated and depressed. I did not care much about healthy eating as I thought it was pointless because I wasn’t able to exercise. To this day that is one of the biggest mistakes I ever made. I realize now that being sick was no excuse for overeating. When I was finally able to start exercising again I had gained 17 kg. I was discontent with being overweight and decided that I need to take back control of my life and my health.
What prompted you to join the ULTIMATE YOU Transformation Challenge?
While browsing the internet I came across the Ultimate You page. The stories and transformations were so inspirational and I just knew that this challenge was the right platform for me to get back on track. On the official Sleekgeek Ultimate You Facebook page I found the motivation I needed to keep me focused.
Give us a quick overview of the nutrition and eating plan that you followed during the challenge.
During the challenge I removed all processed and refined foods from my diet.I ate 5-6 smaller meals a day, which included good carbs, vegetables, lean protein, fruits and healthy fats. Making these changes has not only helped me to loose 10 kg in 8 weeks, but I now have abundance of energy and my skin is all cleared up and glowing.
Give us a quick overview of the training and exercise plan that you followed during the challenge.
To keep active I started doing weight training 4 times a week and HIIT cardio 3 times a week. I also attending night run trails mid week and park runs over weekends.
If you could give some advice to future challengers, what would they be?
I urge future challengers to just trust the process, you will not see results right away, don’t give up just push through and if you do fall of the wagon don’t beat yourself up and quite, pick yourself up and continue.
Build a good support network by surrounding yourself with like minded people that will encourage you to keep going, join a team during the challenge or start your own team, the support is tremendous and its gives you that extra nudge and accountability.
What did you find most valuable about your experience?
The one thing that I value most about this experience is realizing that you can achieve anything you set your mind to and overcome any obstacle you face as long as you are dedicated, disciplined, determined and committed.
