Online Training Transformation Jena Richter
From size 14 to size 4, FITBODY Magazine Cover Model & Online Training Transformation, Jena Richter not only lost weight, but learned about loving her body and herself.
My greatest accomplishment ultimately was learning to love myself. Loving who I saw in the mirror, embracing my imperfections. Fitness forced me to take a look at myself both inside and out. Learning to trust the process and not to listen that quiet thought in my head telling me I can’t do it.
Hometown:
Pemberville OH
Personal Information
I am a Registered Nurse and mother to three beautiful little girls. I’m married to the love of my life, Bradley. I grew up in a small town in Northern Ohio on a small farm. I came to Cincinnati for nursing school and along the way I met my husband.
What are your greatest fitness accomplishments?
My greatest accomplishment ultimately was learning to love myself. Loving who I saw in the mirror, embracing my imperfections. Fitness forced me to take a look at myself both inside and out. Learning to trust the process and not to listen that quiet thought in my head telling me I can’t do it.
Tell us about your online training transformation?
I started out a size 14 and 29% bodyfat when I first started my online training transformation with Julie Lohre. I told her that I was interested in competing some day and she didn’t bat an eyelash. She gave me my plans and believed in me. Eight months later I stepped on stage for the first time and won my first show! Nearly two years into it, I have lost 40 pounds and wear a size 4.
What are your fitness goals?
My ultimate goal is to get my pro card. I’m still learning the different federations and figuring out ultimately where I want to be. I am always setting small goals to keep me on track, for example a personal record for free squats or a certain number of pull ups in one set.
What motivates you to maintain a healthy lifestyle?
First, my health. I was overweight and exhausted all the time. I didn’t have the energy to even play with my children. I felt sick all the time. Now I can play with my girls and I wear them out! I wake up full of energy and ready to tackle the day. Second, my children. Knowing that my three daughters are watching me, I will not give up. I strive to set a good example of living a healthy lifestyle and making good food choices. If you make a commitment, you follow through.
What role does fitness play in your life?
Fitness keeps me focused mentally. It keeps me motivated, energetic, and feeling strong. Fitness for me just isn’t about physical strength. It forces you to stay cognizant in your life. I have learned so much about myself in this journey, and for that I am grateful!
What unique challenges have you faced in reaching your fitness goals?
I have learned that our mind is a very powerful thing. I will go to do a set and think there is no way I can lift this weight, it’s too heavy. Once I learned to push that thought out of my head, I started breaking my personal records. I have been able to apply this to my career as well. The sky is the limit!
How do you stay motivated?
I fill my social media pages with my fitness idols! They are always posting pictures and recipes that motivate me. I love it when women support each other, the strong women lift each other up. I am always setting goals, even if they are small. I need a goal to strive for to keep me reaching for the top! As soon as I reach my goal, I immediately make another one.
How do you balance nutrition?
I cook on Sunday for my meals for the week. I take my food everywhere I go. I keep protein bars in my handbag for emergencies. Tracking my body stats once per week helps me figure out how to adjust my nutrition plan. I also have one “off meal plan” meal on Saturday. If I start to get tempted during the week, I’ll just start planning my off meal plan in my head. It keeps me on track. Also, Julie Lohre has so many good recipes that are clean but taste like a cheat meal!
What does a typical workout look like for you?
I usually lift heavy weights for about an hour and a half followed by 40 minutes of cardio before work in the morning right now. I’m always changing things up and making adjustments to my cardio length. I do a lot of supersets and hit two body parts per day, 5 days per week in the off season.
Favorite body part to train and favorite exercises?
Back! I absolutely love back day because it makes me feel strong. I love to do pullups and bent over rows!
What is the best part about working with Julie?
She lays out the meal plan for me. I thrive on structure but at the same time her plan has so much variety in it that it never gets monotonous. I love that I can email her and she is quick to respond, and very easy to approach. I feel like I can tell her anything, she makes me feel comfortable. I also especially love the contest prep team. I have met some very amazing women who have become my closest friends!
What is the worst part about working with Julie?
While she is extremely nice, she definitely holds you accountable! I’m always thinking “What would Julie say about this…” Haha!
Favorite Motivational Quote
“Do it because they said you couldn’t”
When I was overweight and exhausted all the time, I didn’t have the energy to even play with my children. I felt sick all the time. Now I can play with my girls and I wear them out! I wake up full of energy and ready to tackle the day.
FITBODY Inspiration
