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Embracing Change: Vijay Bassi Reed’s Journey to Health and Fitness
Vijay Bassi Reed’s journey towards health and fitness reflects a remarkable transformation stemming from personal experiences, cultural influences, and newfound passions. Raised in the United Kingdom by Indian parents, Vijay grew up in an environment where academic success was prioritized over physical fitness. “The way I learned to think of health was by being well-fed,” she recalls, citing a culture that equated food with wealth and status. This upbringing led to unhealthy eating habits, often consuming second dinners, and a struggle with self-esteem due to her weight.
At the age of 21, while attending university, everything changed. Surrounded by peers who effectively balanced their studies with sports, Vijay was inspired to prioritize exercise. She began frequenting the gym, yet her workouts were disorganized, leading to limited results. While she gained strength, it was hidden under excess body fat and her knowledge of nutrition was still lacking.
The turning point in Vijay’s life came during the COVID-19 pandemic. At 47, amidst the challenges of perimenopause and the stress of lockdowns, she felt her health slipping away. Determined to regain control, she joined a structured at-home workout plan developed by Joe Wicks. This program not only improved her physical activity but also revolutionized her eating habits. By focusing on balanced meals and limiting carbs on certain days, she was able to lose 20 pounds by December 2020.
Vijay’s newfound confidence led her back to the gym, where she stumbled upon the world of Hyrox races, a hybrid competition that combines running with functional workouts. Intrigued, she signed up for upcoming races and quickly grew fond of the format, eventually earning podium places in her age group.
Now focused on upcoming Hyrox races, Vijay trains intensively with her coach, Samantha Bilbie. Her training regimen consists of five workouts a week, including interval running, strength training, and recovery sessions, allowing her to prepare for the unique demands of the races. She has embraced a nutrition plan that promotes a healthy balance of indulgence and discipline, allowing her to enjoy flavorful meals while also maintaining fitness goals.
The key to Vijay’s transformation lies in her commitment to consistency. Acknowledging that not every day will be perfect, she chooses to embrace the journey, recognizing that progress is a series of small steps rather than a singular destination. Today, she stands as a testament to the power of resilience, empowerment, and the ability to redefine one’s relationship with health and wellbeing.
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