Who are you? Tell me a bit about yourself.
My name is Ibrahim Lias, I’m 33 years old, and I work as a Finance Manager in investment. I’ve let myself go for the last few years and I want to take back control of my life.
What was your fitness like before you started training at Studio Fit U?
During the lockdown, during COVID, I gained a lot of weight. And after that, I had a hard time losing it. Because of the nature of my work — I’m in a tower, in an office — I wasn’t moving much. My lifestyle did not allow me to become active, or at least I settled of being an inactive person… and that needed to change for my health.
What were the struggles and challenges you faced before starting the process with us?
I tried a bunch of things. I tried a diet, I tried working out… but it wasn’t sustainable and it was not realistic. When you start those diets or working out plans your motivation is through the roof at the beginning but that fades and at some point you’re back to rock bottom… that’s why I really appreciated the approach at Studio Fit U.
Why did you come to us? What were your goals at the beginning?
I came to Studio Fit U to ask for help. I needed something to get me into the fast track lane so I could keep myself going. My goal was to lose weight — but in a way that was actually sustainable. Meaning I’m not starving myself. It’s not extreme. Which is exactly what happened, I met with Sami (the owner) and we mapped out a game plan together, something that made sense and no cookie-cutter stuff. The approach was really human-focused and doable.
How has your journey been so far? What did you enjoy most about the process?
I started in March, so it’s been 4 to 5 months. I got help from my coach — who by the way is amazing — and also from the entire team. I even got a back contract, meaning even after I finish here, I know I’ll stay on track. I also built habits that will last through time and allow me to make exercise an integrated part of my lifestyle.
How is your relationship with your coach? What role did they play in your transformation?
I think you defined it properly, she’s a coach, not just a trainer to count reps and talk about the weather… She’s my coach and man she really helped me out. She supported me through the whole process. I got a lot of guidance and constant feedback from her so that I would follow the plan and keep getting results.
What results have you achieved and how long did it take?
I’ve lost 15 kg — around 30 pounds — in 4 to 5 months. And I lost it in a sustainable way and I continue to push myself to lose a little bit more. When you’ve gained over 30kg through inactivity and bad lifestyle habits over the last few years, you can expect to lose the weight in at least the same amount of time.
Outside of training, what else in your life has changed?
I sleep better now. I used to have breathing problems, but now even when I sleep just 8 hours, I wake up feeling fresh. Before, I’d sleep 8 hours and still feel tired. My stress is also down quite a bit, the naturopathic approach to health is phenomenal at Studio Fit U, they really take the time to break down all the spheres of health and they explain, tailor and execute the game plan!
What do you think of the team and the gym environment?
It’s a community gym. All the trainers treat you like family. It’s a great family-friendly place. You don’t have to pretend, you can ask any question — there are no wrong questions. Everyone treats you with care, everyone says hi and everyone is there for your success, nothing less.
Here is the full interview with Ibrahim
