Fitness is more than a mere pass time. It is a way of life, a passion that drives a person towards greatness.
In fact, such is the passion for greatness in fitness that Arnold Schwarzenegger once said, “The last three or four reps is what makes the muscle grow. This area of pain divides a champion from someone who is not a champion.”
Annecke Eyssen is a local fitness enthusiast who is driven by passion. A woman who thrives on pushing herself to the limits in the pursuit of greatness.
As a coach and instructor for Newcastle Gymnastics Club, as well as an IFBB Bikini Competitor, where did Annecke’s journey begin?
Annecke became a coach and instructor at Newcastle Gymnastics Club a year and a half ago.
“I have always had a passion for gymnastics and the art which lies in it. When my daughter started gymnastics, the head coach was looking for a coach and I jumped at the chance.”
Coaching children between the ages of six and eight years, Annecke says it is extremely rewarding when one of the youngsters can accomplish a move that they have been practising for months.
“I just love the look on their faces when they get a move right. That moment when you see it click within them and they understand how to do.”
Annecke became an IFBB competitor a year and a half ago; when she felt that she needed to do something about her health.
“I was tired of always feeling tired. I started training at home and eating healthy. Then in November of last year, I entered my first IFBB Bikini Competition.”
In the competition, Annecke clinched second place. An achievement she is proud of. “I was training at home at that stage, so I am extremely pleased about my position.”
Now an active gym member, while still training at home, Annecke trains twice a day, six times a week. She also receives a substantial amount of guidance from her coach Hayley Wright, who Annecke says is her role model.
Constantly pushing herself, Annecke has now set her sights on a new target as she continues her fitness journey. She is now a contestant for Arnold’s Virtual Model Search 2020, an online competition run by the iconic Arnold Schwarzenegger.
“If a person wins, they stand a chance to meet Arnold Schwarzenegger. I have always admired him, as he is an amazing bodybuilder, so it will be amazing if I had the chance to meet him,”Annecke smiles.
With her sights set on achieving her goals, Annecke is a role model for many young women. As a mother and a wife, what advice can Annecke give to other women who are considering pursuing a lifestyle of fitness?
“There is never going to be the right time, so just do it. Also, get yourself a coach as they will be able to push you to heights you never thought possible,” she concludes.
