They’re not perfect but these woman are fit and healthy, and they’re proud of it.
Shirley Thien
Standing confident at 152cm, Shirley has been petit and curvy all her life. But that kind of shape hasn’t always been accepted in some of her most personal circles. Luckily for her, the 42-year-old co-director of a construction engineering company in Kuala Lumpur isn’t perturbed by the dissing of her natural shape. Her concerns for a fitter and healthier body has led to her transformation and fitness journey.
THE PROBLEM
Dabbling in various activities such as taekwondo, tennis, swimming and hiking, Shirley was an active kid in school. She enjoyed both the adrenalin rush and joy that the activities gave her. But all of those physical activities came to a stop not long after she went to further her studies in the university. Studies, course work and practical training began to take all of her time. It was then when the pounds crept in without her realising it. “It was easy to put on weight with the sudden lifestyle change. People including my family members kept saying that I was fat because all the ladies in my family are 45kg or under. I am the curvy one among them. I did go to the gym almost daily and jogged around my neighbourhood after that but I didn’t shed a gram of fat,” says Shirley.
THE TURNING POINT
However, in Shirley’s mind, she wasn’t overweight for her frame. Sixty kilograms to 152cm in height seemed alright to her. It took her about 10 years to finally realise that she had serious weight issues and needed to do something about it. The biggest motivator for her was when her clothes couldn’t fit her and how the sight of her big belly made her sigh helplessly. “Of course, there was also peer pressure from everyone who was picking on my shape and size,” she says.
THE JOURNEY
This story is from the January 2017 edition of Shape Malaysia.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the January 2017 edition of Shape Malaysia.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Break It Down: Breast Health
With so many confusing and alarming reports about breast cancer, it’s tough to figure out what your risk really is. We asked top experts to help explain the latest facts behind the headlines—and discovered some very reassuring news.
5 Best Natural Extracts For Your Hair
Lately the ingredient list on your shampoo reads like your smoothie order. And that’s a good thing. Coconut, aloe, and other natural extracts are packed with exactly what your hair needs. Here, we break down what each can do for you.
Skin And Hair Detox
It’s the season of fresh starts, and your skin, hair, and makeup routines are primed for change. We have your action plan.
Super Nutrients For Sexual Health
These power ingredients ease PMS, boost sex drive, and keep your system strong.
Yes, Diet Affects Your Sexual Health
Going vegetarian can lead to some surprising changes.
8 Tips To Absorb More Nutrients From Your Food
All those greens you’re nomming? You might be missing the benefits if you’re making these mistakes.
What You Need Know About Intermittent Fasting
You’ve probably heard a lot about this dieting and weight-loss technique, but what is it exactly? Is it safe? And does it mean you can’t eat?
Gold Standard Abs
The lopsided, cannonball-shaped kettlebell works your core like crazy— sculpting, strengthening, and trimming in ways no other tool can match.
Crush Your Treadmill Time
No more flatlining on indoor runs. Use these tricks to re-energize your strides.
8 Reasons Why Women Should Lift Weights!
Don’t worry about getting bulky. According to the Women’s Heart Foundation, high levels of estrogen make it very difficult for women to become overly muscular. When women lift, the changes to their muscles are generally related to muscle-tone, strength, and endurance rather than size. The result is just a firmer and shapely you. Here are more reasons why you should pick up those weights today.
