12-WEEK CHALLENGE

Seven women transform their lives and bodies in our annual pairing of readers with trainers

Meet seven women we paired with fitness trainers to help transform their lives.

LINDA AGE 55, 1.65m

VICIOUS CYCLE

“I am the epitome of a yo-yo dieter, futilely on a cycle of losing weight, gaining weight, staying overweight for lengthening periods of time, then back through the whole souldestroying cycle again,” wrote Linda Smith, a mother of three and critical-care nurse (on a fly-in-fly-out roster) from Adelaide. “I insist on trying to find solace for everyday trials and tribulations by regular indulging in family-sized pizzas, bottles of GSM wine or, deliciously, an entire French brie ... Working away from home for half the month has led me to a pattern of overindulging and bingeing when home.” TRAINING PLAN

Carmelita Varelas from Premium PT Adelaide trained Linda in person three to four times a week, a combination of strength work and fitness conditioning, and set a program for her to follow during work weeks. “Food is crucial for fat loss,” says Carmelita, who guided Linda to follow a plant-based diet, low in saturated fats, cut out alcohol and drink more water.

REBORN

“I’m proud, fit, more mentally and physically resilient, and ready for summer and middle-age mayhem,” says Linda, who made the saying ‘What we think, we become,’ her Challenge mantra. “I recited it when I ran or said no to alcohol or unhealthy food. It helped me immensely with my focus and determination.” Carmelita Varelas, Premium PT Adelaide (0450 014 641)

“We had a plan and she kept on track week by week,” said trainer Carmelita Varelas. “Linda has achieved an incredible result!” “I want to look as sexy and youthful as Helen Mirren,” said Linda. “Yet I fear my youth and vibrancy fading with each day.”...