Jenny Schillerström

I am Swedish. I moved to Norway by myself when I was twenty years old. Unfortunately, I was then diagnosed with cancer.

There were so many health complications & surgeries I underwent over a period of ten years. Finally, the doctors and surgeons approved my need for a full hysterectomy. Hence I was thrown into early menopause in my early thirties.

I was prescribed HRT & gradually my body adapted. I put on weight. I have always been sporty, played soccer, love horseback riding, adore taekwondo, and enjoy the feel of dancing and moving my body. The hormonal change put me in a slump. I did nothing for about eight or nine years.

Then I became single, properly single! In 2018, I was about to turn 40, and needed a change! Now it was time for #metime. I’ve always had loads of energy, my close friends call me ‘Tigger’! I wanted to do something inspiring, in sports. I pictured a fit body with lean muscles but still feminine! That was my main motivation!

I met Livia through Joanne Morrison & Denise Hazelwood. I started a food and training plan with Livia, even though I was living in Norway! I loved it! I kept the vision of what I wanted very clear in my mind and I was determined to reach my goal. Joanne & Denise had decided to compete in a fitness competition. Livia was coaching them. Initially, I had decided that it wasn’t for me but I became too tempted and joined in with the girls.

I really enjoyed the journey! They were my #Fitfam!

The support & healthy pressure to award that moment on stage was exhilarating. Our friendships grew. NOTHING was taboo to talk about! Many women in the client group that Livia coached had the same demons and lack of support from family/neighbours/”best friends”/work etc. Now we could share our journeys together and we still do to this day!

I entered my first fitness competition and absolutely loved the journey!! I learnt a lot during this process, the amount of personal knowledge I gained expert knowledge in the world of fitness & nutrition. During the whole process of shaping my figure, losing fat and creating beautiful lines, the discipline involved was immense, as was the planning. But I have a talent for planning things, luckily!!

I was awestruck by the mental strength I had gained during this time. The psychological part, personal growth and strength of character were the REAL gain. I surrounded myself with people who love, admire and support me. Before that, I embraced people who didn’t give anything back. I guess you can say ‘toxic people’. Now I choose Quality over Quantity. Oh, and the BONUS was a great figure in my 40s!

This is the message that I feel many of us, in our 40s and beyond, miss. We CAN achieve so many things, not only within our personal fitness or weight loss goals but in adopting exercise into our lives and being more aware of nutrition. As a result, you will feel euphoric about life, happier and healthier, both mentally and physically.