Anjuli Mack, a 31-year-old personal trainer from New Zealand, shares her transformative journey from yo-yo dieting and overtraining to finding balance and contentment in her fitness routine. Initially driven by societal pressures and body shaming, Mack cycled through various fad diets and extreme workouts. However, over time, she learned to embrace a more sustainable approach to health and wellness. Today, she feels stronger and happier than ever, enjoying a balanced lifestyle that includes regular exercise and indulging in chocolate without guilt.

Mack's fitness journey began in her teens when she first discovered strength training. Initially, her motivation was purely for enjoyment and building strength, but this changed after overhearing critical comments about her appearance. These remarks triggered a period of intense dieting and overexercising, leading her down a path of yo-yo weight fluctuations and an unhealthy relationship with food. She tried numerous fad diets, including keto, intermittent fasting, and "clean eating," but none provided lasting results. Instead, they left her feeling frustrated and out of control.

In 2014, Mack met her future husband, Ross, who introduced her to more balanced workout routines and nutritious eating habits. Despite this positive influence, she still struggled with an "all-or-nothing" mindset. Her efforts culminated in several bikini competitions between 2017 and 2019, where she followed strict diets and rigorous training regimens. While these experiences brought temporary success, they also took a toll on her physical and mental well-being, even causing her to lose her menstrual cycle due to excessive leanness.

Recognizing the need for change, Mack decided to take a break from competing and focus on recovering her health. During this period, she gained weight to restore her menstrual cycle and reconnected with her love for fitness. In 2022, she returned to competition one last time, winning a coveted "pro" card. This victory marked a significant milestone, as she had finally found a healthier balance between diet and exercise.

Today, Mack is proud of her progress and maintains a physique that reflects her commitment to long-term wellness. She no longer stresses about every workout or indulgence, instead focusing on maintaining overall health and strength. Her experience has not only transformed her own life but also equipped her to help others navigate similar challenges. Mack now enjoys a fulfilling career as a personal trainer, empowering women to find joy and balance in their fitness journeys.