Anna says:

If I could go back and start my fitness journey all over again, here’s what I’d do differently - and what I hope you’ll take to heart if you’re just starting out, or starting over.

Thirteen years ago, I was all about chasing extremes. I thought the only way to get results was to push harder - eating very low calories, doing punishing workouts, and never taking a rest day. I believed that discipline meant always doing more, never letting up, and that rest was for the weak.

But here’s what I’ve learned:

More isn’t better. Better is better.

1. Start With Strength

If I could do it again, I wouldn’t begin with endless cardio or high-intensity intervals. Instead, I’d focus on strength training from day one. Lifting weights changed everything for me. It didn’t just build muscle - it built confidence, resilience, and gave me a foundation I could actually grow from. Strength training taught me to appreciate what my body could do, not just how it looked. It made me feel powerful and capable, both in and out of the gym.

2. Fuel My Body Properly

For years, I thought eating less would get me results faster. I was constantly under-eating, thinking that less food meant more progress. But when I finally started eating to perform - giving my body the fuel it needed - everything shifted. My energy improved, my recovery sped up, and even my mindset changed for the better. I learned that food is not the enemy; it’s the foundation for progress, health, and happiness. Eating well helped me train harder, recover faster, and actually enjoy the process.

3. Build Systems, Not Streaks

Motivation fades and life gets busy. That’s why I’d focus on building systems, not just chasing streaks or relying on willpower. Systems keep you grounded and make consistency possible - even on your worst days. Instead of aiming for perfection, I’d create routines and habits that support my goals, no matter what life throws at me. Systems are what keep you moving forward when motivation runs out.

Anna says:

If you’re just starting out, or starting over, skip the extremes. Build a strong base, fuel your body, and create systems that support your life. Progress isn’t about doing more - it’s about doing what matters, consistently, over time.

Remember:

• Start with strength, not punishment.

• Eat to perform, not to restrict.

• Build habits that last, not streaks that break.

You don’t have to make all the mistakes I did. Learn from my journey, and give yourself the best possible start.

Anna McManamey is a leading body transformation coach, business owner, and professional athlete with over 10 years experience helping clients unlock their full physical and mental potential. As founder of AEM Health & Performance, a certified personal trainer, and sports nutritionist, she has guided hundreds - from everyday individuals to elite competitors - to lasting, life-changing results. A multi-title-winning Professional Fitness Champion and published fitness model, Anna brings deep expertise and lived experience to every client journey. Her coaching philosophy blends science, structure, and mindset, empowering clients to transform their bodies through discipline, education, and unwavering support.

Learn more about Anna at IAMANNA.COM.AU