Body Transformation: Rachel Olsen Beat Obesity And Competed Confidently!

Rachel changed her family tree by committing to healthy habits. See how this teen torched double-digit body fat and competed on the bikini stage!

Why I decided to transform

My parents had health problems from their weight and I never had a good example of how to eat healthy or exercise growing up. In sixth grade, I decided to change my life and not follow in their footsteps. I was 200 pounds and at that point of being morbidly obese, so I started eating healthy and lost 50 pounds in one year.

I started playing basketball in second grade and ran cross country and track from seventh grade until my sophomore year of high school. I got into cosmetology as a junior, quit basketball, and got a gym membership. I was a cardio girl initially and didn't start lifting weights until January 2013.

After months of lifting and watching my body change, I was ready to see how far I could push myself and began my journey to the NPC stage. I had never been comfortable in a bikini, but I set a goal and achieved it. It took 21 weeks, a loss of 40 pounds, tons of dedication, and passion to get where I needed to be.

Before /// 181 lbs
After /// 140 lbs
AGE 18 / HEIGHT 5'5" / BODY FAT 24%
AGE 18 / HEIGHT 5'5" / BODY FAT 13%

How I accomplished my goals

I worked hard every day and never lost sight of what I wanted. I trusted and loved the process. The body is an amazing creation and requires food to fuel it. Sticking to my meal plan was the best way to see results.

I found motivation from myself because others just let me down mostly. I always set new goals that were near unimaginable to meet at the time and gave it my all to reach them.

What aspect challenged you the most

"Believe in yourself and what your body is capable of."

I struggled mostly with dieting. Growing up and being taught to eat unhealthy is a hard trait to break. When I started to see results after sticking to my diet, it made every challenge I faced worth it.

My future fitness plans

My next show is May 3, 2014 at the Ronnie Coleman Classic. I'll be doing figure instead of bikini because it suits my body type better and I enjoy the look more than bikini. As an added bonus, I get to lift heavy, which I couldn't with bikini because I genetically build muscle fast.

Qualifying for nationals in 2014 is my main goal. I want to obtain my pro card before I turn 21 years old. I'm currently looking for sponsorships and modeling opportunities.

Suggestions for aspiring transformers

Believe in yourself and what your body is capable of. Never lose faith that you will get where you need to be and stick to your diet.

Diet and consistency are absolutely key. Do it for yourself and never let anyone persuade you to do something that isn't your passion.

How Bodybuiding.com helped me reach my goals

Bodybuilding.com has the best prices and has made bodybuilding a more affordable sport. Competing is complicated and Bodybuilding.com simplified it. The site has several diets and workout plans that are easy to follow.

Rachel's Top 5 Gym Tracks

  1. "Bust Your Windows" by Jazmine Sullivan
  2. "Work B**ch" by Britney Spears
  3. "Headband" by B.o.B.
  4. "Syrup & Honey" by Duffy
  5. "Work" by Iggy Azalea