My Journey from Chubby to Fit: A Transformation of Body, Mind, and Spirit

My name is Malini Shah, and at 48 years old, I find myself at a place in life I never imagined. For 27 years, I’ve been a devoted wife, and for 25 years, a loving mom. My journey to fitness, however, is a more recent chapter that has completely redefined who I am.

From a young age, I struggled with my weight, always on the chubbier side. But it wasn’t until five years ago, during an expedition to Mt. Kenya with my teenage daughter, that I had a wake-up call. I failed to reach the summit, and the realization of how unfit I was hit me hard. Standing on that mountain, I made a decision—to take control of my health and change my life for the better.

I started by joining a gym, trying out random workouts without much knowledge of fitness or nutrition. But determination was on my side, and I was eager to learn. My turning point came when I discovered Fittr through a YouTube transformation story. It felt like fate was guiding me. I quickly downloaded the app and signed up with a coach, marking the beginning of a journey that has brought me to where I am today.

In the years that followed, I shed 15 kg and managed to build muscle, all while navigating the challenges of menopause. The process wasn’t just about losing weight; it was about finding my true calling. My passion for fitness led me to study nutrition and fitness at INFS, and today, I’m proud to call myself a Fittr coach. My mission is clear: to help as many people as possible achieve their health and fitness goals, spreading awareness about the vital role fitness and nutrition play in our lives.

Reflecting on my journey, I remember participating in the Fittr Transformation Challenges (TC). I started with TC 15, and each challenge made me a better version of myself. The experience was exhilarating, especially when I secured a spot among the top 50 champions in TC 18. But this journey was far from easy. It demanded unwavering consistency, laser-sharp focus, and relentless discipline.

To achieve these results, I focused on five key pillars: nutrition, movement, hydration, sleep, and stress management.

Nutrition: I embraced a structured nutrition plan, learning to eat smart without starving myself. Maintaining a calorie deficit while ensuring my body received the nutrients it needed was key to my success.

Movement: My workout plan was well-structured and tailored to my goals. I didn’t spend endless hours in the gym, but I made every minute count. I also made sure to stay active throughout the day, keeping my body engaged and energized.

Hydration: Staying well-hydrated became a priority. I drank at least 4 liters of water daily, ensuring my body was always refreshed and ready.

Sleep: Managing sleep was challenging, especially with menopause affecting my sleep patterns. However, I made it a point to go to bed early and aim for 7-8 hours of rest each night.

Stress: Joining the Fittr community taught me to let go of unnecessary worries and focus on self-care. I made myself a priority, and in doing so, I fell in love with the person I was becoming. I learned to manage stress by controlling what I could and letting go of what I couldn’t.

This fitness journey has been transformative, both mentally and physically. From 61.7 kg to 47 kg, the transformation wasn’t just about the numbers on the scale—it was about becoming stronger, more resilient, and more confident. One of my proudest moments came when I conquered the peak of Mt. Kilimanjaro at 5,895 meters, a dream I realized on my 25th wedding anniversary, thanks to the Fittr community’s unwavering support.

Achieving a place in the top 50 of the Fittr Transformation Challenge 18 was not just a personal victory but a testament to the power of hard work, perseverance, and the incredible support system I found in this community. Together, we’ve witnessed the transformative power of commitment and support, and I’m eternally grateful for the inspiration and knowledge that have become a part of my journey.

My fitness journey is far from over, and as a Fittr coach, I’m dedicated to helping others discover their potential, just as I discovered mine. Fitness isn’t just about the body—it’s about the mind and spirit too. I’m living proof that with the right mindset and community, anything is possible.