Why did you decide to start the challenge? 

I decided to do the 8 week challenge back in July 2020 because I was unhappy with my body after being 8 months postpartum. I had been working out & watching what I would eat but it wasn’t working. I knew if I was doing this with other women that had the same goal in mind, it would be achievable. 

What was your biggest obstacle in completing the challenge and how did you overcome it?

My biggest obstacle in completing the challenge would have to have been the food. Como buena latina, we would eat bread in the AM, rice for lunch & dinner. Since I would be the cook in my household, I would cook the carbs for the rest of the family & more veggies for me. It was difficult at first but towards the end it was all I knew. I’ve been an athlete my whole life so the workouts were easier to do than the eating. Not saying they weren’t difficult, because I was challenged on a day to day basis! I loved it! María got me hooked on her programs & not to mention the results within 4 weeks. 

What was the most rewarding part of the challenge?

The most rewarding part of the challenge was saying that I did that, I made the choice to change for ME, not my husband, not my son, but for me! I have always been curvy & playing soccer my whole life I was told I needed to lose weight when in reality, it’s my genetics. María made me embrace my curves & love them again! I’m proud of being able to feel good in my skin! 

What did you learn about yourself during these 8-weeks of work?

I learned that I can commit to something I set my mind to, I learned that I am capable of being the best version of myself that I chose to be. I learned to have workout buddies that I have never met before & they are now my friends & we look out for each other. I learned that a community is possible & especially to be positive! 

What advice would you give someone starting the challenge? 

READ THE PDF! Lol Don’t give up!!! Know that you can do it! You have support, you have all the right tools, Maria & the team she has created are incredible! There’s accountability everywhere & anywhere you can think of! You are not alone! Trust the process! 

How was your experience with the CMF community; what tools did you utilize from the community?

I love our community! My experience has been great! I’ve utilized all the tools offered to me, from the Facebook group, to the WhatsApp groups, to our weekly accountability check in, to texting Maria, to emailing Natalia with tech issues, it has all been so easy to be successful! Use what is available & you will make it to your goal!