By Megan Flemmit, photography courtesy of Instagram
“Here’s to strong women. May we know them. May we be them. May we raise them.”
As anyone on their fitness journey knows, it takes a huge amount of willpower and inner strength to be continuously motivated to work out. Whether it’s lack of progress or not having the time, it’s all too easy to find yourself wandering far from your fitness path.
It’s especially important, at times like these, to have role-models who inspire you to keep pushing yourself. That’s why we’ve rounded up ten of our favourite local fitness gurus. These women are not only super badass, they make working out look incredibly fun. Perfect motivation for when you find yourself in a fitness rut.
READ MORE: 3 Easy Ways To Adjust Your Workout So You Burn WAY More Fat
Follow them on Instagram, and feel inspired to live your best life.
1. Mapule Ndhlovu
There’s a reason why @queenfitnass won our first Next Fitness Star competition. She knows exactly how to string together an intense workout that’ll have you sweating in no time. Her smile and unbelievable energy make you feel like you can achieve anything. For those of you who think burpees are a walk in the park, you’ll love Mapule even more. She’s known as the queen of burpees and incorporates burpee variations into many of her workouts.
2. Tracey-Lee Lusty
If you’re currently on a fitness or weight-loss journey, @fitnessgirl_za is definitely the person you want to follow. She started her Instagram account to document her transformation and, wow, it’s unbelievable (Yaass Queen). Not only will seeing her transformation motivate you, but her constant motivational posts are the ultimate solution for those moments when you’re not sure if the journey you’re on is still worth it. Be inspired by her determination, commitment, and fierce attitude.
3. Raeesa Solwa Mehtar
If you prefer running marathons to running from your problems, then following @runitwithraeesa is the best thing you could do for your life. The 2016 Next Fitness Star top ten finalist is a running coach and biokineticist. Her workouts are designed to help you improve your PB, while her motivational posts will have you changing your habits so you can be the best version of yourself.
READ MORE: Ace Your First Running Race With Tips From This Comrades 2016 Winner
4. Nkateko Maswanganye
@takkies7 is living proof that workouts don’t have to be boring. If you like your workouts with a side of sexy, you’ll love her @rockingnheels classes. The choreographer and fitness instructor is both fit and fabulous. Her moves will have you dancing to your heart’s content, and getting fit while you’re at it.
5. Dominque DOliveira
Take your fitness goals outside with @dom_nique_d. Nothing says fearless warrior like conquering obstacle courses. Not only is she adventurous, but she posts fun alternative workout moves for you to try. Ideal for those of you with enough daring and nerve.
6. Aneeka Buys
With a bubbly personality that matches her bright hair, @fitgirlza is definitely someone you want to follow. The 2016 Next Fitness Star finalist not only posts weekly workouts, but posts a stream of motivational quotes to keep you going when those workouts get intense. And because the personal trainer is serious about helping you reach your goals, she’s even created the FitKit which is filled to the brim with fitness and wellness goodies.
READ MORE: 5 Things Every Fit Girl REALLY Needs In Her Gym Bag
7. Letshego Zulu and Khethiwe Mlangeni
The co-founders of @popupgym know better than anyone that any time is a good time for working out. With workout events all across the country, these incredible women will have you swallowing all your excuses. Their workouts are designed to help you work out anywhere and any time. Grab a partner and join them.
8. Inge Viljoen
This year’s Next Fitness Star continues to inspire us despite the competition being over. @moving_fit often posts photos of her clients doing moves, showing that anyone can do them. On top of that, most of the moves can be used for workouts in the comfort of your own home. Get fit with this impressive warrior.
9. Nomvula Khuzwayo
If you’re looking for a balance between health and fitness, @nomvula_khuzwayo is the person to follow. The fitness guru is a great reminder that fitness is not just about working out, but fuelling your body the right way. Not only does she post great workout ideas, but she also shares amazing food ideas.
READ MORE: What You Should Eat And Drink During A Race
10. Cara-Lisa Sham
@caralishious will have you rolling out your yoga mat faster than you can say Namaste. The graceful yogi constantly posts jaw-dropping yoga poses with incredible views that’ll make even non-yoga lovers believe that yoga is the truth and the life. That, along with her motivational posts and healthy eating tips, will have you leaving her page feeling balanced and mindful.
Need more inspiration? These are the are world’s top fitness influencers – and they’re all women! Plus, these 6 South African yogis will inspire you to roll out your mat.