Laura Konstantinidis
She overcame poor body image and eating disorders by adopting a strength-training routine, a healthy diet, and JYM System supplements.
She overcame poor body image and eating disorders by adopting a strength-training routine, a healthy diet, and JYM System supplements.
Written by Laura Konstantinidis
Ever since high school, I had always been insecure about my body. I was never overweight, but I was always crash-dieting and developed very unhealthy eating habits.
Name a fad diet and I tried it. I always strived to be a size 0 because I thought that was the "ideal body." But the more I strived for that goal, the more unhappy and insecure I was. I would binge then starve myself, a vicious cycle that went on for years — through my 20s and early 30s.
A couple of years ago, I got to my lowest weight: I was 5'3", 100 pounds, and a size 0.
Did I feel any more secure with myself? Nope. I was unhealthy and looked gaunt. It wasn't until nine months ago that I realized I would be 37 soon and I felt horrible. It just hit me like that — I didn't want to abuse my body anymore.
I wanted to be strong, not frail. I joined a gym, got myself a trainer and I started to eat properly. I began researching everything I could on bodybuilding. That's when I stumbled upon Jim Stoppani and his programs and videos.
Jim explains everything so well and I was hooked. I went straight to his 12-week Beginner to Advanced program, since I was a total beginner and had never really exercised before.
I then started Shortcut to Strength. I purchased Pre JYM and Pro JYM, which have both become staples in my fitness routine and diet. I also joined the JYM Army Facebook page, which is my constant source of inspiration and support.
I am now 120 pounds and my progress is becoming visible. Instead of being gaunt, I have muscles!
I still have a lot to learn, and I will be following more of Jim's programs while I continue my journey to being strong and healthy. Bodybuilding has helped me with my insecurity and has shown me that as a result of feeling better physically, you feel better mentally as well.
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