My journey with the gym began about four years ago, during one of the darkest and most challenging periods of my life. At the time, I felt completely lost. Mentally, I was drained. I had developed an unhealthy relationship with food, my weight had dropped significantly, and I didn’t recognise the person I was becoming. The truth is, I wasn’t investing in myself — physically, mentally, or emotionally — and it started to show in every part of my life.

The gym wasn’t something I jumped into with a big goal or perfect routine. At first, it was simply a place to clear my head. But over time, that space became a turning point. Lifting weights, showing up consistently, and seeing progress — even small wins — slowly helped me rebuild the parts of myself I thought were gone.

Training wasn’t just about building muscle. It was about regaining control. Every session helped me feel a little more grounded, a little more capable. Alongside playing footy, the gym gave me structure, focus, and a healthy outlet to pour my energy into. It reminded me that change was possible — even when everything else felt like it wasn’t.

Eventually, I stopped just training for looks or to “fix” myself. I started training for performance, for discipline, and for the feeling of power that came from pushing past limits. I also found myself surrounded by a community that supported that mindset — people who were driven, passionate, and striving to better themselves just like I was. That connection pushed me further than I could’ve gone alone.

Today, I’m in a completely different place. I’m stronger, inside and out. I’m healthy, happy, and always growing — and most importantly, I’ve found purpose in helping others do the same. Whether someone’s just starting out or trying to bounce back from a setback, I want them to know: you’re not stuck. You’re just getting started.

INSTAGRAM: @jazkincaid_