Written By Nicole Lewis, Attorney, Certified Personal Trainer, Head Coach OrangeTheory Fitness (Emeryville, CA)
Photos by Arizona
Photos by Paul Buceta
Hair & Makeup by Monica Kalra
PART FIVE in a six-part series following Fitness Expert Nikki Lewis through the process of competition prep.
When I was preparing for my very first competition last year (September 16th, 2023), I really had no true expectations. Fast forward to now, and all I can think about is what a difference a year makes! I never imagined that when I decided to start bodybuilding—at the age of 48—the sport would change my life by unlocking the key to my growth. Now that I am a bodybuilder, the mental blocks that previously held me back are in the rear-view mirror. I have a whole new perspective about life and I am no longer allowing what used to hold me back to keep me from doing the things that my heart desires.
Before I started bodybuilding, there were things that I had a desire to do but I would create some valid explanation for why I would not be able to do it. There was always some reason why it wasn’t the right time, or a reason why something was too risky, etc. However, now I know there are no limits to what I can do, and I have new goals for the future. I truly believe any person who is willing to engage in the self-discipline that is required to be a competitive bodybuilder is a person who has unlocked a secret to life’s successes. Possessing the ability to make hard sacrifices now and delay gratification for the greater reward is the key to so much of what is necessary to have a fulfilling and purpose driven life on this earth.
“The ability to make hard sacrifices now and delay gratification for the greater reward is the key to so much of what is necessary to have a fulfilling and purpose driven life.”
Unexpected Growth
I have grown a lot since becoming a bodybuilder. As I continue to train, whether for a competition or a photo shoot, the more I learn about my body and all the dynamic things it is capable of. Workouts at the gym have become so much more than movement designed to increase my physical strength or change my body composition. Training has become my time to focus on me, no one else. Workout sessions are now a sanctuary from the noise of everyday life and work. Training gets me into a space where I can reflect, heal and grow. It is one of my favorite tools to achieve mental clarity and a more balanced life.
My growth over the past year has extended well beyond my identity as an athlete. Becoming a bodybuilder changed so many aspects of my life as an attorney and entrepreneur. The discipline and mental strength that is required to be a competitive bodybuilder are traits that are necessary for me to be successful in business. I am so much more confident now than I ever was prior to bodybuilding. By regularly engaging in training for bodybuilding, I have developed a more resilient mindset, and I am better equipped to handle challenges. I truly believe I can do anything that I put my mind to now.
Wellness Wins
Bodybuilding has also catapulted me to a place of greater recognition and influence, allowing me to inspire others through my journey. So many people have contacted me to show their support and share their stories about changes they have made in their lives after having seen or read about me, which has been motivating and organically led me to recently starting my wellness business as an Accountability and Life Purpose Coach. I’m proud to say, as a result of so much interest in my journey, I am launching my “Wellness Wins” Program—a twelve-week program designed to help individuals (primarily woman) develop healthier habits to create a better life for themselves.
The goal of “Wellness Wins” is for each participant to have a renewed mind, thereby enhancing one’s life, health, and relationships. The program will include one-on-one coaching sessions with me wherein we embark on a mission of self-discovery. Since each individual is different, my program will be tailored to a person’s particular needs. There are five simple steps to the program with each step providing practical tools that can transform one’s life for the better. Since I am also a fitness professional, naturally, fitness related accountability coaching can also be included in the program. No one person will yield the same experience from my 5-step program and that is why I believe the one-on-one sessions are so valuable.
With so many people inquiring about how I can maintain multiple businesses and find the time and energy to engage in other activities that I find so fulfilling and rewarding, like competing, I knew I had to explore coaching in this way. It’s so important that people understand strategies for success. I often explain that I did not get to where I am overnight, and through the course of my various conversations, I found myself sharing my pathway with others. The responses that I received were so overwhelmingly positive that I believe it is my purpose in life to help others achieve a better version of themselves. Helping others find the path that makes life joyful is what I am on this earth to do, and bodybuilding has led me to realizing that. I hope that with so many facets to my life and careers (legal, fitness, and business) my reach will be far and very impactful for so many people who desire to live a joyous and abundant life, too. Especially the women in the STRONG community! I invite you all to reach out to me directly to learn about how Wellness Wins can work for you. Simply email me at info@nlewisinc.com and make that first step—to the stage, or otherwise!
