Xola Magwaza, a 36-year-old father of two from Sandton, has achieved something many only dream of.
Recently, he competed in the prestigious Natural Olympia, the ultimate competition in natural bodybuilding, where he placed first in one category and earned his Pro Card, as well as finishing third in another category.
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His journey from obesity to world champion has been nothing short of inspiring.
Growing up, Magwaza was always active and passionate about sports.
He excelled in football throughout his school years, playing academy football for Bidvest Wits, with dreams of becoming a professional player.
However, his life took an unexpected turn in his early 20s when a lung infection dashed his football career.
Struggling with depression, Magwaza turned to food for comfort, leading to significant weight gain.
Over the years, his weight fluctuated, but it was the Covid-19 lockdown that led to a downward spiral in his eating habits and inactivity.
“It was not until I hated the way I looked and felt that I knew I had to make a change. I was once in great shape as an athlete, and I wanted to get back to that, but even better.”
He said he was determined to regain control, and he embarked on his fitness journey.
Magwaza addedt he had a strong desire to wear clothes that fitted him properly, but more than that, he wanted to rediscover the athleticism he once had.
“Information overload was a huge issue. I read hundreds of articles that contradicted each other, and I tried every diet and training regimen, but nothing seemed to work.”
He elaborated that it was not until he found the right coach that his progress started to accelerate.
“Having a coach from the start would have saved me so much time.”
Despite some setbacks, including several moments when he felt like giving up, Magwaza’s determination kept him going. His wife, who supported him every step of the way, played a pivotal role in his journey.
“She trained with me, stuck to the diet with me, and her encouragement was crucial.”
According to Magwaza, his approach to fitness evolved.
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“Once I started understanding the science behind nutrition, it became easier to make the right food choices. I was not eating for pleasure anymore but for a purpose.”
He said a major turning point in his fitness transformation came when he read about The Rock’s intense training regimen for his role in Hercules.
“Inspired by The Rock’s commitment to 150 days without a cheat meal, I decided to try it for myself. I ended up going 499 days without a cheat meal. No cake, chocolate, sweets, or fizzy drinks.”
Magwaza emphasised that this commitment set the foundation for his next goal to go into bodybuilding.
“I always admired bodybuilders like Arnold Schwarzenegger growing up, but I thought it was only possible with performance-enhancing drugs. When I discovered natural bodybuilding, I knew it was the path I wanted to take.”
Magwaza highlighted that to prepare for competitions, he followed a rigorous training regimen.
He trained five days a week, focusing on one body part per session, with cardio and abs work several times a week.
“My diet is equally strict, consisting of seven meals a day, with sources of protein, complex carbs, and vegetables carefully chosen to fuel my body. It took me nearly a decade to get to this point, and this year I started my prep in February.”
Despite a few setbacks, including a bout of bronchitis three weeks before the competition, Magwaza’s dedication paid off. Competing in the Natural Olympia, the pinnacle of natural bodybuilding, was a dream come true.
“The atmosphere in Las Vegas was surreal. It felt like I was living in a dream. But when I stepped on that stage, I knew I was in the best shape of my life, and that confidence helped me achieve great results.”
Magwaza pointed out that he became the first South African to win his class at the Olympia, which was an incredibly special moment.
“I honestly did not think I had a chance because the other competitors were taller and bigger than me. But to finish top three in another category was amazing, and earning my Pro Card meant the world to me. It was not just about winning; it was about being recognised for my hard work.”
He concluded by stating that now his fitness was a lifestyle for him.
“It’s not just about looking good; it’s about being healthy and maintaining mental well-being.”
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