From passion to power
I want to have all my muscles distinctly cut and look more like a bodybuilder.
MBABANE – “Where there is a will, there is a way,”
Banele Masilela from Mbabane proved this to be true. At the age of 38, he embarked on a remarkable journey of body transformation, driven by his profound love and passion for bodybuilding. On January 5, 2022, Masilela took the first steps towards a healthier and fitter lifestyle. Little did he know that this decision would not only lead to shedding excess weight but also to gaining discipline, strength and a newfound sense of self-confidence.
Let’s delve into Masilela’s inspiring journey of self-improvement and learn from his experiences.
When did you start training and what was the motivation behind it?
“I started training on January 5, 2022. I was driven by passion and love for bodybuilding.”
What was your weight then compared to now?
“I weighed 59kg back then, and now I weigh 78kg.”
What sort of lifestyle contributed to your weight gain?
“Discipline and consistency in the gym, I train five times a week and occasionally six times, depending on my work schedule.”
What kind of exercises do you do?
“I follow a specific weekly program: legs on Monday, chest plus Tricep on Tuesday, back plus bicep on Wednesday, shoulder, arms plus abs on Thursday, legs plus crossfit on Friday (as a form of cardio), Full body on Saturday, and rest on Sunday. I change the set of exercises every eight weeks and increase reps/weights as a form of progressive overload.”
Do you stick to a specific nutrition programme?
“I currently strive to eat healthy by having a high vegetable and protein diet, along with sufficient carbohydrates, to fuel my body and enhance muscle growth. However, I can’t really say it is a specific diet.”
What challenges do you normally encounter in keeping up with your new lifestyle, and how do you handle them?
“Having a wholesome and nutritious diet all the time is quite difficult in these trying economic times.”
How has your life improved so far, and how do you impact the people, especially ladies, in your circle or community?
“I can proudly say I’m aging gracefully. My discipline to stick to the gym has influenced other parts of my life, and I have achieved a physically and aesthetically pleasing body. Seeing my transformation has inspired and motivated the women in my circle and community.”
What are your weight and fitness goals given a certain time frame? How hard or easy will it be to achieve the goals?
“I want to have all my muscles distinctly cut and look more like a bodybuilder. I aim to qualify and win in competitive bodybuilding competitions. It will require dedication and hard work, but I believe in the power of persistence.”
What advice can you share with other people who face weight challenges, but lack the courage to start exercising and make it a lifestyle?
“The secret is to just start and be patient, as results take time.”
What is your motivational slogan?
“Forget all the reasons why it won’t work and believe the one reason why it will. You can have results or have excuses, not both. Make fitness a way of life.”