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My body fat loss journey

Writer: Marie Nguyen
Marie Nguyen
9 hours ago
2 min read

I recently shared my fat loss journey on social media. It was a vulnerable moment for me because, as a trainer, there's an expectation to maintain a certain physique. However, I'm human too. My body weight and fat percentage fluctuate. This is my story of how I went from my highest weight and body fat percentage to losing weight, reducing body fat, and becoming the strongest version of myself!


The journey began in 2024 when I reached my highest weight and had a body fat percentage of 33.8%. I was enjoying life, frequently dining out. Although I maintained regular workouts, I consumed more calories than I burned and was less active. (I used to walk more when I worked at a commercial gym compared to training privately.) 


I felt very uneasy about my body, but I accepted it and avoided making any major changes until I experienced a serious fall and injured my elbow in 2025. Unable to exercise, I hated feeling sorry for myself, missing my usual workouts, and being unhappy with how my clothes fit. 


I began monitoring my diet and intensifying my workouts. Additionally, I needed to renew my Strongfirst Kettlebell certification, where the kettlebell's weight is linked to your body weight. I aimed to avoid using the heavier kettlebell, so I had to shed more weight. I enlisted the help of my friend and fellow trainer for a few months to reach my target weight, allowing me to use the 12 kg (25 lb) kettlebell instead of the 16 kg (35 lb) one, which was a significant difference in weight. 


I monitored my food intake to ensure I was consuming fewer calories than I burned. I also increased my daily steps from 6,000 to between 7,000 and 8,000, drank 80 ounces of water, and improved my sleep. I reached my target weight for the certification and reduced my body fat to 30.7% according to my DEXA scan. After recertifying, I decided I wanted my body fat to be below 30%. To achieve this, I refined my macros further, slightly increased my calorie deficit by lifting heavier weights, adding more steps and cardio, drinking more water, and focusing on sleep.


In May 2026, I underwent another DEXA scan, which revealed that I had reduced my body fat to 28.4%. I am extremely proud of myself for achieving this goal! My aim was to lower my body fat to 30% for both health and aesthetic reasons. Even though I’m a trainer, I’m still human. I want to look and feel a certain way, and sometimes life gets in the way! However, with the right plan, consistency, and patience, I achieved my goals, and you can too! If you need support in reaching your fitness goals, contact me here!


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