Currently a TripleFit trainer, we speak to Sara May on what she thinks about the current fitness trends and how she keeps her physique (and abs) in tip-top condition. 'Cause this 38 year old surely doesn't look her age!
Originally from Colombia, Sara is a qualified and certified fitness instructor with a degree from the Colombian University PCJIC. Having been in the industry for many years now, Sara has a vast experience in leading Les Mills group exercises, Pilates, as well as Personal Training sessions for her clients.
Sara’s work ethics revolves around her philosophy of building and fostering a relationship with her client, as well as constant communication to ensure that they reap the benefits of her training methodology.
P.s. We absolutely love how she's sharing & educating the community on some biggest myths that surround fitness and lifting weights. Check out her post on 'why is it difficult for women to build big muscles?
What are some common myths you hear about health, fitness and wellness?
- Doing hours of cardio will burn fat.
- Girls think if they lift weights they are going to get big muscles. Lol.
- Fat is going to turn into muscle.
- Doing crunches everyday is going to give one a 6 pack.
- Starving will help one lose weight.
- If one trains more, he/she will get results faster or be able to eat unhealthy foods because of the workouts.
Are many ladies in Asia still afraid of lifting weights for fear of 'bulking'? How about in Columbia?
Yes. In Asia, weight lifting is still misunderstood. In my country, all women lift weights and train hard to get the body they want. They stick to strict diets as well. In Colombia, I am considered skinny. The beauty standards are different.
‘Now every girl is expected to have…a Jamaican dance hall ass, long Swedish legs…the abs of a lesbian gym owner, the hips of a nine-year-old boy, the arms of Michelle Obama… The person closest to actually achieving this look is Kim Kardashian, who, as we know, was made by Russian scientists to sabotage our athletes.’ – Tina Fey. What are your views on the aforementioned statement?
When I was young I would straighten my hair because I wanted to look like the European models but now, I have learnt to love my natural beauty. You must accept yourself for your own beauty and focus on your strengths. Here in Asia, girls often want to change themselves without realising how beautiful and unique they are. They get plastic surgery to make their eyes rounder or lips fuller, when in reality, they are already more beautiful than any Korean doctor can make them.
With the rise of social media & the popularity of fitness models, #fitspo, etc, do you think it is a healthy trend?
The problem is not social media, nor is it with the models - it is with families. Many parents don't give their kids enough attention or take the time to interact with them, so we end up with a generation of people looking for attention in a bid to build their self confidence. Social media has become the scape goat. Even right now as I'm eating at Astons, I see 4 teenagers supposedly eating together, but are all fixated on their phones.
Discipline or good genes?
Both, but you can change your genes with discipline.
What is your…
secret to ‘abs success’?
Abs are made in the kitchen. But you also need to do weight lifting and HIIT training. 70% diet 30% workout. To target and strengthen the core muscles (abs included), I developed 'Core 360' - which is offered at TripleFit.
weekly workout routine like?
I train twice a day, 5 days a week. The first workout is functional training and core work. The second workout is a cross training session that incorporates weight lifting and HIIT.
favourite workout move?
Squats.
go-to healthy meal / snack?
Almonds.
upcoming fitness goal?
I want to compete in a bikini competition this November.
go-to healthy ritual?
Drinking warm lemon water when I wake up, and eating fruits like grapes and blueberries. I also have eggs or a protein shake, and coffee with a little bit of honey and cinnamon.
What motivates you to be disciplined?
Fitness is my life. I like being an example for others to be healthy and to believe in themselves.
Know someone who fits The Relatable Digital Darlings profile? We'd love to hear from you! Drop us an email at [email protected]