Meet Belinda Chila, busy mother of 2 and someone who has fully invested into her own health and well being with those who are important to her still in the forefront of her mind.

Her determination is second to none and pushes well above her body weight for strength gains.

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST HURDLE YOU HAVE HAD TO OVERCOME TO FOCUS ON YOU?

The biggest hurdle by far has been believing I am worthy of the time I take out to focus on me. To take time away from my home duties, from my children, my husband, my parents and grandparents, my friends and extended family fills me with much guilt. It has taken me a long time to truly understand that by giving even just a little to myself, it enables me to give so much more to the ones I love. 

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY MOST ABOUT YOUR JOURNEY WITH MANA FITNESS?

That's a tough one! I enjoy the constant challenge of my training programs. I enjoy pushing myself and seeing the results. I enjoy the environment of the studio and all the connections I have made; but what I'd say keeps me coming back is the experienced knowledge, care and guidance of the Mana coaches. If you do the work, without doubt, you will get results.

HOW HAVE YOU APPROACHED YOUR MENTAL WELLNESS AND HOW HAVE YOU WORKED ON IT?

I've always said lifting weights is therapy for my mental wellness. For me, the best approach is consistency. When I can't control the negative things going on around me, I ensure I control the controllables and stick to my routine as much as possible; this generally keeps me level headed enough to come through any rough patches. 

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST LESSON YOU HAVE LEARNED THROUGHOUT YOUR JOURNEY?

To trust the process. Bad habits are generally acquired over many months or years so rectifying these can take just as long. Each time you show up, you are one step closer to achieving your goals. 

The second lesson is learning to be disciplined. I am only in the gym approximately 3 hours a week and therefore the bulk of results will come from what I do outside of Mana. José can program my lifts but we'll only see results if I execute them in connection with healthy habits during the other 165 hours in the week. 

DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR ANYONE THINKING ABOUT JOINING ANY OF OUR MANA PROGRAMS?

You have nothing to lose and everything to gain. Whether you are seeking better health or fitness or have specific goals, or even just need some new friends and lots of laughs... you'll never know, if you don't give it a go. And believe me when I say, you are worthy of taking the time to focus on you. 

WHAT IS SOMETHING UNIQUE ABOUT YOU?

I've never had a Big Mac!