It’s never easy to make a comeback after a long break, but with the right support and a clear plan, it’s entirely possible. My journey back to competitive Taekwondo, after being away for 9 years, was a challenging yet rewarding experience. I wanted to push myself even further by moving up a weight class, from -74kg to -80kg while ensuring I was at peak performance. Here’s how I managed to achieve my goals with the help of Mike’s nutritional plan, structured training, and consistent guidance.
Setting Clear Goals
My primary goal was straightforward: compete again, but this time at a higher weight class. Starting at 71.5kg, my aim was to increase my fasted weight to around 74kg, a significant shift that required not just a change in diet but a whole new training and lifestyle routine. I knew this wouldn’t be easy; gaining weight in a healthy manner while maintaining agility and endurance is a complex process, but I was ready for the challenge.
Optimal Performance and Recovery
One of the standout aspects of working with Mike was how the nutritional plan didn’t just focus on weight gain but on creating a diet that would fuel peak performance. Whether it was providing energy for those gruelling morning sessions or aiding recovery so I could push hard again in the evening, Mike’s plan covered it all. It wasn’t just about eating more; it was about eating smarter choosing the right foods at the right times to optimize my strength, stamina, and recovery.
The Struggle to Build Routine
Initially, I struggled to create a structured training and nutrition routine that would help me gain weight while maintaining my fighting shape. Tracking my progress was difficult, and I found myself lacking consistency. That’s when Mike stepped in and introduced me to his personalized nutrition plan, daily accountability check-ins, and detailed tracking within an easy-to-use app. With everything organized in one place, I could see exactly what I needed to do each day, making the whole process much easier to follow.
Seeing The Results
Thanks to Mike’s guidance and the structured approach, I saw noticeable changes within just two months. My fasted weight increased from 71.5kg to 73.5kg, a major milestone for me. The additional weight came from lean muscle gain, which meant I wasn’t sacrificing my speed or endurance. More importantly, this progress came without feeling sluggish or overburdened. Every meal was optimized for my unique needs and athletic goals.
Preparing for the competition
As I set my sights on a international competition in Chisinau, Moldova. I knew that if I was going to compete for the first time in almost a decade, I needed to go big. The preparation was intense. I had morning sessions with former Iranian national team members and evening workouts either in the gym or with Great Britain Taekwondo team members. The intensity of these training sessions required a precise balance of nutrition and recovery, both of which were managed through Mike’s plan.
Stepping Back into the Ring
Standing on the mat again, this time in a different weight category and on an international stage, was a surreal experience. The years away and the gruelling preparation all led to this moment. Competing at -80kg, I felt stronger, more agile, and more prepared than ever before. While the competition itself was tough, the confidence I had in my physical preparation made a world of difference.
The Takeaway: The Right Guidance Makes All the Difference
This experience taught me that the right guidance, tailored planning, and consistent accountability are critical for achieving big goals—especially after a long hiatus. Mike’s approach not only helped me gain weight but also ensured I was competing at my best.
For anyone looking to transform their fitness, performance, or even make a comeback after a break, I can’t recommend Mike’s expertise enough. Whether it’s gaining weight, losing it, or optimising your performance, having a structured plan and professional support can turn the toughest goals into achievable realities.
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