Strength Redefined: Olivia’s Journey from Stylist to Bodybuilder
- Oct 9, 2024
- 4 min read
In the quiet neighborhoods of Goa, where the hustle of everyday life meets the serenity of the coastal landscape, Olivia's story emerges as a beacon of inspiration. A humble and good-natured beauty and fashion stylist, Olivia embarked on a transformative journey two years ago.
Her introduction to bodybuilding was serendipitous. What began as a simple passion for fitness quickly led her to the gym, where her dedication caught the eye of a seasoned trainer. With a profound message to believe in herself, Olivia transitioned from a fitness routine to a burning passion for bodybuilding.
Encouraged by her trainer and fueled by relentless determination, Olivia entered the competitive world of bodybuilding, a field still emerging in Goa. She faced societal expectations, gender norms, and her own fears head-on, dedicating herself to rigorous training. Each day was a battle—juggling work, intense workouts, and the demands of competition preparation—but Olivia persevered. Her grit and tenacity earned her victories, establishing her as a leading figure in Goa's rapidly evolving bodybuilding scene.
As women's bodybuilding gains momentum in Goa, Olivia stands at the forefront of this movement. Through hard work, discipline, and unwavering determination, she has built an impressive physique and redefined the meaning of breaking barriers. Olivia's story is one of passion, empowerment, and the relentless pursuit of excellence—a true testament to the power of self-belief.
Can you tell us about your initial journey in fitness? How did your passion for gym workouts develop?
I’ve been passionate about athletic sports since the 5th standard. My dad was a big motivator for me, always encouraging me to work out and stay active. That early drive to stay fit evolved naturally over time into a love for gym workouts.
What motivated you to transition from being a beauty and fashion stylist to taking up bodybuilding professionally? Was there a particular moment or event that triggered this decision?
I believe women can be anything they set their minds to, both beauty and strength. The turning point for me was losing my mom. Coping with that loss made me realize that the best way to heal was to push my limits every day, and bodybuilding became my outlet.
Women’s bodybuilding in Goa is still relatively new. What challenges did you face as you entered this field, both personally and professionally?
Women face challenges every day, no matter the field. For me, it was more about building confidence to step on stage and embracing a muscular physique in a society that’s still adjusting to these concepts.
We know that your trainer played a key role in encouraging you. How important was this support, and how has this professional partnership with your trainer evolved over time?
Having the right mentor is crucial. My trainer, Avidh Morajkar, has not only recognized my potential but has also been a personal therapist for me. Bodybuilding is as much a mental game as it is physical, and having someone who understands that has made all the difference.
As the owner of a beauty salon and a competitive bodybuilder, how do you manage your time and energy between these two demanding careers?
Time management is always a challenge, and there are a lot of sacrifices to be made. Every day I prioritize what’s most important, balancing my professional responsibilities with my training.
Bodybuilding, especially for women, comes with its own set of societal challenges. How do you navigate societal expectations or stereotypes, and how do you use your platform to inspire other women?
I believe we live in a modern world where stereotypes need to be broken. Women are capable of much more than society often expects, and I hope my journey shows that we can pursue our passions, be it bodybuilding or anything else, while also breaking traditional roles.
Who has been your biggest support system during this journey? How have your friends, family, or community reacted to your accomplishments?
My biggest support has definitely been my coach, Avidh, who has believed in me from day one, and my husband, who has been my backbone through it all. My family wasn’t very supportive at first, but after my wins, they saw how important this was for me and began to understand.
Can you walk us through a typical day in your training routine? How do you prepare both physically and mentally for competitions?
A typical day starts with the toughest challenge—getting out of bed early! Then comes training, followed by meal preparation, work, and then rest. Preparing for competitions is both physically demanding and mentally taxing, but it’s about maintaining focus and discipline.
What has been your proudest moment in bodybuilding so far? Any specific competition or recognition that stands out to you?
Winning my first competition, Ms. Velim, was an unforgettable moment. Receiving the trophy from Mr. Mauvin Godinho, the Minister of Transport, who shared some very kind words, was incredibly overwhelming and proud.
What’s next for you in bodybuilding? Do you have any upcoming competitions or long-term goals you’re working toward?
I’m aiming to become the No. 1 bodybuilder in India. My goal is to achieve the best physique anyone has ever seen, and I’m working every day to make that a reality.
What advice would you give to other women who might be interested in bodybuilding but are unsure about taking the first step?
Bodybuilding is more of a mental game than a physical one. If you can control your mind, you’ve already won half the battle. Don’t be afraid to take that first step!
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