Body Transformation: Maribel Fuentes Found Mother Muscle!

Vital Stats

Name: Maribel Fuentes
Email: MaribelFuentesFitness@gmail.com
Location: Orlando, Florida

Why I decided to transform

During my second pregnancy, I gained baby fat and saggy skin, experienced restless nights, and had little time to work out. I bought a jump rope to start my transformation when the doctor said I could work out after delivery.

I was determined to get a fitness model body and compete in my first bikini competition. I wanted to prove to myself and others that it's possible. I liked to work out, but wasn't dedicated. I was never an athlete or played sports. I thought being fit required athletic experience and enhanced genetics.

It took seven months to return to my pre-baby weight with 20-40 minutes of in-house HIIT combined with resistance training 3-4 times per week while my baby slept. At first, I couldn't do a push-up or jump rope for more than a few seconds, but it got easier.

I was a flight attendant and had to get workouts in around my crazy schedule. It also required me to eat in the back of a small aircraft galley area next to the bathroom.

A year later, I entered a bikini competition and prepared for 16 weeks. I saw fitness magazines with amazing women who competed, which really fired me up. My goal was to lose fat and gain lean muscle to achieve a fitness model look: athletic with sexy, feminine curves. I recorded my training and meals in my journal, including supplements and cheat meals.

My journal helped me to stay on track and see improvement on paper. I had inspirational photos in my journal of fitness models and bikini competitors I wanted to look like. I also looked at Bodybuilding.com for training and nutrition advice, and success stories.

My transformation made me more confident. Best of all, I can ride bikes with my children because I have more energy. I'm thankful for my health.

How I accomplished my goals

I had to make many changes to compete, including getting up at 4:30 a.m. to hit the gym while everyone in my house slept. I joined a gym to vary my workouts and lift heavier. I trained 5-6 times per week for one hour and ate 6-7 times per day, which was the most difficult because I had to bring my own food to family gatherings and parties.

There were days I thought about quitting, but knew I would regret it. I kept my eyes on the prize. My goal was to compete and transform my body after my second son was born, and I did. Even though I didn't win, I felt like a champion.

What aspect challenged me the most

The diet was the most challenging. I ate every two hours and prepared meals in advance so they were ready to go. When I didn't have a handy meal, I drank a protein shake.

My future fitness plans

I love fitness so much that I resigned my position of 11 years as a flight attendant and became a trainer to help others, especially moms. I would love to compete again. It's nice to let your hair down, tan, and wear makeup. Being in a pony tail or bun every day hurts.

Suggestions for aspiring transformers

How Bodybuilding.com helped me reach my goals

The articles, photos, and videos on Bodybuilding.com motivated me. Amanda Latona's glute and shoulder workout routines were my favorite. I gained lots of knowledge to alter my meal plans from nutrition articles and stay inspired with BodySpace.

Maribel's Top 5 Gym Tracks

Thanks

Photo Credits