Why I Chose to Work in the Fitness Industry: A Personal Journey

As Yash Birla's story unfolds, it becomes clear that his journey into the fitness industry was accidental but deeply fulfilling. He initially started lifting weights out of a desire to improve his physical appearance, only to discover the profound benefits it brought on a psychological level. This realization led him to share his knowledge and experience with others.

The Journey Begins: From Appearance to Empowerment

I personally can't imagine not working in the fitness industry. I love lifting and feeling the burn. I find immense satisfaction in helping people improve their physical shape and boosting their confidence and happiness. My love affair with fitness stems from my early days of lifting weights at a very young age, though I only occasionally did so for decades.

Throughout the years, I've tried various fad diets, but eventually, I returned to the basics: nutrition. Nutrition is number one and always will be. To be strong, you must eat often, but in a smart way. It's a core principle that never wavers. I’ve noticed that one's nutrition and diet play an integral role in their physical fitness. For true strength, a balanced diet is necessary.

Adversity and Resilience

Unfortunately, my journey in the fitness industry came to a halt after a significant setback. I fell down two flights of stairs at work, injuring my ankle. This incident left me away from the gym for a considerable time, and since then, I've never managed to return to the same level of intensity. Despite my efforts, it just didn't work for me anymore. The inspiration to pursue fitness originally came from a drastic weight loss – I went from feeling overweight to the best shape of my life in just four months on a liquid diet.

Early Influences and Inspirations

My journey in fitness truly began when I was just 15 years old. I started noticing changes in my body as a result of joining a gym and engaging in cardio and resistance training. However, it wasn't particularly fun or motivating at the time. One day, I came across the YouTube channels of Merijn Guzman, Jeff Nippard, and others, which shifted my focus towards weight lifting.

I started incrementally increasing my weight on the bench press and rowing machine, adding 10 pounds each week. This progress in strength is what kept me hooked on fitness. As my diet changed, I saw noticeable muscle growth each month, which was a massive motivator. My journey has been a rollercoaster of ups and downs, but I’ve gained 19 kilograms since I started, and I’m leaner than I was 19 years ago, despite a 3-inch increase in height.

Encouragement for Newbies

If you're considering joining the fitness industry, whether as a personal trainer or an enthusiast, here are a few tips:

Join a gym: Whether you lift weights or engage in cardio, a structured environment can greatly enhance your journey. Find a buddy: Having someone to lift with and push each other can make your workouts more enjoyable and effective. Watch tutorials: YouTube is a goldmine of fitness content. Channels like Merijn Guzman and Jeff Nippard can provide valuable guidance and motivation. Focus on nutrition: Remember that what you put into your body is just as important as the exercise you perform.

Just start: The most important thing is to begin. Even if you start small, that's a significant step towards achieving your fitness goals.

In conclusion, the fitness industry is a path filled with challenges, but also profound rewards. For those like me who are dedicated to making a difference in people's lives through fitness, it's a calling that can't be ignored. If you're considering making this journey, I encourage you to start today with the right mindset and dedication.