Chapter 1: My Journey to Single-Digit Body Fat

As an avid fitness enthusiast and someone who used to hit the gym six times a week, reaching single-digit body fat was a personal milestone I aspired to achieve at least once. This goal became a significant marker in my life, especially when I accomplished it for the first time.

Despite being a certified personal trainer and having experience training others, I chose to enlist the help of a reliable online coach for a year. This decision was driven by my desire for accountability and support in achieving my objective. Prior to this journey, I was already in commendable shape with a solid amount of muscle, but I believed that attaining single-digit body fat would elevate my fitness to a new level. I thought that achieving this goal would transform my life and set me apart in the fitness community.

The method I followed was straightforward. To reduce body fat percentage effectively, the fundamentals are simple: adhere to a solid resistance training routine for 3–5 days a week, maintain a whole-food diet rich in protein, and ensure you’re in a caloric deficit. The process boils down to consuming fewer calories while increasing physical activity. Tracking my weight daily or every couple of days allowed me to monitor progress and make necessary adjustments.

Once I got the hang of consistency, the main task was to put in the effort. This included enduring hunger pangs and lower energy during workouts, alongside incorporating cardio, all while persevering until I hit that desired single-digit body fat. While the process is manageable and effective, the challenge lies in maintaining consistency over time. My journey spanned over 12 weeks because attempting to achieve this goal too quickly is not advisable for health reasons.

Upon reaching my goal, I had envisioned a sense of euphoria and accomplishment. However, the reality was different. Despite being the leanest I had ever been, I found myself feeling unsatisfied. I began obsessively checking my reflection daily to admire my abs, yet it didn’t bring the fulfillment I anticipated.

Trying to maintain that low body fat percentage for an extended period took a toll on my health. I became so focused on achieving a specific number that I neglected my overall well-being. This led me to question the purpose of all the struggle. Was it truly worth it?

Over time, I realized that achieving such a lean physique was not the ultimate goal of my fitness journey. I was seeking validation from external sources, heavily influenced by the perfectly sculpted individuals I saw on social media platforms like Instagram.

Now, my approach has shifted. Instead of seeking approval from online personas, I prioritize my own fitness growth. While I may not sustain single-digit body fat year-round, I maintain a relatively lean physique and find joy in my workouts. I focus on healthy eating and push myself in various ways, rather than solely aiming for aesthetic results.

I’m not ruling out the possibility of pursuing single-digit body fat again in the future. If I do, it will be for personal challenge and growth, rather than for the sake of external validation.

Chapter 2: The Shift in Perspective

This journey has taught me that true fitness is about more than just numbers on a scale or the appearance of my physique. It's about how I feel physically and mentally, the enjoyment of the process, and the overall balance in life.