When I first joined Studio Zia Smetka all I had in mind was to lose a few kilos and making a lifestyle change. I had let myself go both physically and mentally and this resulted in many days feeling sluggish, tired and hungry. I knew I needed a SERIOUS change but never in my wildest dreams had I envisioned myself in a Bikini Competition.

Following a successful 12-week weight loss journey with Zia as not just my Personal Trainer but as my Mentor, she encouraged me to consider competing as my next goal. My first reaction was “No way”, “me?” “I could never look like those girls on stage!” to which she said “YES, you CAN” With her constant advice and support Zia helped me change my mindset, she taught me to BELIEVE in myself and that I could do it if I set my mind to it, and so I DID!

I prepped for 14 weeks and having Zia by my side was crucial to me being able to achieve this huge project of mine. Stepping on the IFBB stage looking and feeling amazing is something I could never have done without the guidance of Zia as my coach. Hard training sessions, weekly check-ins, meal plans, posing and post-comp care – Zia covers all aspects involved in comp prep from start to finish and tailors each of them to the needs of her clients.

I could say that she is a perfectionist, and it shows! And here I am, 9 months into what I thought would just be me losing a bit of weight and I feel like a completely different person. Who would have said that in less than a year I would be stepping into a stage in a tiny bikini in front of thousands of people and be in the BEST shape of my life?

To anyone who is thinking of competing as their next goal, I highly recommend Studio Zia Smetka as the place to start your journey and Zia as your coach. Needless to say, my experience with Zia and the Studio has been nothing short of life-changing and I am forever grateful to Zia and her team for helping me become a better, improved version of myself.