“At 38, I’m in the best shape of my life” – Oliver’s story

Oliver understood the basics of fitness and nutrition, but lacked the discipline and guidance to reach his true potential. With the help of the Freeletics Transformation Challenge, he was able to connect the dots, surpass his expectations, and achieve results beyond what he ever thought possible. Here’s his story:

“Before starting the Transformation Challenge, I always knew that exercise and movement were important, but I never fully understood the value of strength training. I mostly ran and occasionally did some Freeletics Training Journeys, but I never really managed to finish one.

In my early twenties, I had a strict phase where I managed to be more consistent with Freeletics workouts and nutrition, and for the first time, I saw my body change. Over the years, Freeletics helped me maintain control over my fitness, but I never really achieved any specific body goals.

I was constantly stressed out from work and often had issues falling asleep. I knew all the scientific theories about healthy nutrition, but I was never strict enough to follow them consistently.

I was just maintaining my level but never really improving, which was really frustrating because it felt like I was always doing more than others, but not making progress.”

“I had seen the Transformation Challenge a few years ago, but wasn’t accepted. I told my sister about it, and when she applied and got accepted, I heard firsthand what it contains. After seeing what she accomplished, I was determined to be part of this journey.

I knew how important fitness is for my mental health, but I wasn’t consistent enough to make it a real routine in my life. I wanted to change that and finally be really fit once in my life! That was one lifetime goal for me.”

“I started at 78 kilos with over 23% body fat. I didn’t feel great. So, my initial goal was to simply feel better about myself. I wanted to lose a few kilos and get under 20% body fat, which I considered healthy.

I knew I wasn’t the most disciplined person and that I am very social. So, parties with alcohol, dinners, and hangovers were my biggest fears. I guess most people thought I wouldn’t last the 5 months, and I also doubted it. To prepare, I told my close friends about the challenge and said “no” to less important festivities.

But I still struggled, especially with cravings for sweets, and sometimes my body just craved quick calories. Also, not being able to enjoy some parties with a glass of wine was tough, too. But once I got into a routine, I saw how I was improving physically and mentally. I actually never felt better in my life – and this kept me going.”

“Initially, I thought it would be really tough with meal prep and training, especially with a job where I had to travel a lot. Over time, I learned which meals were easy and quick to prepare, and when to eat to keep my energy levels high and the cravings low. It felt a little like a game and was kind of fun.

In the end, I was eating the same meals every day, which may sound boring, but it never was.

Also, my mindset shifted from seeing food as a special event to just fueling my body to become stronger. With that, I also learned to enjoy food again. The training sessions were really fun and motivating, and it was beneficial to train with a group.”

“I totally overachieved every goal. I lost more than 9.5 kg and reached around 13% body fat, which was more than I ever expected.

I’ve never had this much energy before. It improved my performance at work, helped me set boundaries, and taught me to say “no” when necessary. It changed my perspective on food, and I still see the 4 days of training each week necessary for my well-being.

I’ve seen what I can achieve and feel way more confident to tackle other challenges as well. My confidence overall has improved. And if I am feeling unwell, I know that getting back to my routine will help. At 38, I’m in the best shape of my life.”

“People hardly recognize me after the Challenge. I had charisma like never before, and everyone wanted to talk to me about it.

I now manage my work-life balance way better than before and can accomplish more even though I didn’t stress myself about it. Also, the mental, social, and financial effects of my transformation were surprising.

To maintain my transformation, I am trying to establish an 80/20 rule, which I find hard to do right now. But my meal routine and 4 workouts per week are here to stay.”

“Be strict. Get creative with your meals and how to prep them. And remember, after a while, the results make it easier. So, stick with it!”