Transforming My Strength Journey: From Running to Bodybuilding

Val Ulene, a preventive medicine physician and co-founder of Boom Home Medical, shared her inspiring journey of transformation through strength training. Starting her fitness journey in medical school, Val ran the New York City marathon at 28 but soon shifted her focus to parenting after becoming pregnant. Years later, her mum encouraged her to try weightlifting, and with the help of a personal trainer, Val fell in love with lifting weights.

Now at 58, Val works out with her trainer Toby twice a week and hits the gym almost every day. She follows a structured weightlifting routine, focusing on different muscle groups each day. Despite initially hating weight training, Val now embraces the challenge and enjoys the physical and mental benefits it brings.

At 52, Val decided to enter her first bodybuilding competition after meeting an inspiring woman at a birthday party. With Toby’s guidance, she trained rigorously for five months, focusing on building muscle and following a strict diet. The competition was a success, and Val felt strong, empowered, and proud of her hard work.

Val’s journey highlights the importance of finding inspiration, letting go of limiting beliefs, and embracing challenges. Through strength training, she not only transformed her physique but also gained confidence and a sense of accomplishment. Her story serves as a reminder that it’s never too late to pursue your fitness goals and push past your fears to achieve greatness.