This interview is part of the Real Talk Real Women interview series, where we bring you the life-changing, heart-warming and inspirational stories behind the most successful women in health and fitness. Make sure to follow us on Instagram for the latest interviews! For this installment, we are joined by Kaitlyn Davidson.
Let’s start off with a general introduction. How would you describe yourself, what are you all about and how did you get involved in health and fitness?
I've completely transformed my life from a girl who suffered anorexia to now a fit, healthy and driven woman living in Bondi. I use my journey to inspire others and to raise awareness of mental health. I've been featured in Oxygen Magazine and participated on the panel for ABC Triple J Hack Body Obsession Live. I now live a balanced life and continue to work towards goals in all aspects of my life.
Where does your motivation come from?
I think real motivation needs to come from within. Once you develop your why and purpose for wanting to achieve something, whether that be in or out of the gym, that itself should be all the motivation you need.
As you decided to make a career out of your passion - what were your biggest stumbling blocks along the way?
I haven't yet created a career out of my fitness journey. I work full time in the Property Industry in the Event and Project Management. Fitness, health and awareness of mental illness is a hobby and something I am extremely passionate about.
What’s your perspective on the importance of self-care?
This is number one. Creating a habit to regularly check in with your mental health and happiness is key. If you aren't loving who you are first, then nothing else will change, it's the key to happiness.
What are some of the biggest misconceptions about women lifting weight?
That it makes you bulky! If you want to achieve a 'toned' look then you need to lift weights. To gain muscle you need to lift weight and eat a calorie surplus and in order to lose weight you also need to lift weights and eat a calorie deficit. It really is that simple. Lifting weights also makes you feel really empowered, so give it a go if you haven't already.
Many young women who want to lose weight believe that not eating is the way to do it, without realising the consequences of that kind of behavior.
Why do you think this is and what’s your perspective on educating society on healthy nutrition habits?
I could ramble on and on answering this question because I used to be that young woman and it lead me to an eating disorder, so please live through the pain I went through and save yourself. Stop idolizing instagram bikini bodies and fitness models and thinking that this is realistic. Put your phone down and pick up the weights. Make yourself feel good and feel empowered in the gym and eat nutritious and delicious foods to fuel your body. Stop with all the restrictions and quick fixes and just focus on one day at a time, because consistency is the key in changing your body, be patient.
What are the most unexpected lessons you’ve learned on your health and fitness journey this far?
There have been a lot! I think perception is a huge one. There are so many fads and quick fix plans out there but at the end of the day consistency and patience will get you results.
What do you do to maintain balance in your life?
It's really important to have goals in all aspects of your life. I currently have goals in my career, socially, with my training and with my inner self.
How do you stay productive?
I've created really good habits now that I don't feel the need to push myself to be productive, I naturally just do it. Sometimes it works against me though when I feel like a Sunday morning sleep in! Although I can't complain, I love getting up early and making the most of my days.
If you could only choose one thing, what would you tell your younger self?
Don't sweat the small stuff.
Can you give a breakdown of your current diet, training and supplementation regimen and the thinking behind it?
I follow a flexible approach to my diet and track my macro's. I incorporate all the foods I love while ensuring I eat plenty of nutrient dense meals. Food should not be viewed as 'good' and 'bad' yet simply for its macro and micro breakdown. The way we view food and our relationship with it, is so important. Food should not be the enemy.
Going into 2017, what are your biggest life goals?
I don't like to wait for the new year to start working on new goals. Start now! A couple of goals I am working on at the moment are improving my body weight strength so I am adding these exercises into my weight sessions. I have also applied for University to go back and study part time while working full time to progress my career and I am practicing more self love by removing negative self talk.
Where can people go to learn more about you online?