Rachel Faye Robbins, a 27-year-old photographer from Anchorage, Alaska, has undergone a remarkable transformation, shedding 41kg in just over a year. Her journey from battling binge eating to becoming a powerlifting champion highlights the impact of self-discipline, physical strength, and a supportive community on her weight-loss success.
Rachel’s struggle with food dates back to her preteen years and intensified after the birth of her children. By the time she was 26, her weight had ballooned to 121kg, accompanied by debilitating lower back pain and high blood pressure. The physical toll was immense, but it was her reflection in the mirror that pushed her to seek change.
The turning point came in November 2019 after Rachel left her marriage. Determined to create a better life for herself and her two sons, she realized she deserved to prioritize her health and well-being. “My boys needed a strong, stable mum,” she shared, marking the beginning of her weight-loss journey.
Conscious of her binge-eating history, Rachel decided to embrace calorie counting and portion control, paired with eliminating fast food and committing to drinking only water. Though she notes that this approach may not be suitable for everyone, she believes it was the right fit for her. She also focused on eating balanced meals, which included:
- Breakfast: Avocado toast with hard-boiled eggs and bacon
- Lunch: Rice bowl with chicken and vegetables
- Snack: Bell peppers with cream cheese and ham
- Dinner: Egg salad wrap with cheese and fruit
- Dessert: Dark chocolate squares
But Rachel’s success wasn’t solely about nutrition. Physical activity played a crucial role in keeping her motivated. Starting with 20-minute HIIT workouts and yoga six days a week, she gradually transitioned to powerlifting after joining a local gym. She now lifts heavy weights three days a week and engages in daily cardio at home for mental clarity.
Rachel credits several key changes for her dramatic results:
- Reframing her relationship with food: She stopped seeing food as something to “earn” and began viewing it as fuel for her body, cutting down on junk food and focusing on high-quality meals for herself and her children.
- Building a support network: She found strength in a fitness community that encouraged her to stay on track and push herself further.
- Learning to love her body at every stage: Embracing self-love, Rachel recognized that her body had done incredible things, including bringing two healthy children into the world. “This body is amazing,” she said, emphasizing the importance of enjoying the journey rather than fixating on the end goal.
In just over a year, Rachel has lost 41kg and transformed not only her body but her entire outlook on life. Today, she’s not only a successful business owner and powerlifting gold medalist but also a role model for her children, embodying strength, resilience, and self-love.
Rachel’s message is clear: take that first step. “The power to change my life was always in my hands,” she reflects. “And I’m so glad I took that leap.”
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