A Transformation That Didn't Start in the Gym, But in the Mind

Hi everyone, my name is Nikola (Nika), I’m 26 years old, and I work in the field of Health and Safety (OSH).

I’ve been led toward sports since I was a little girl, even though I wasn’t exactly the skinniest kid. Throughout elementary and high school, I was a regular member of every school sports activity and competition.

A heart for sports, but extra pounds

Movement and exercise have always been close to my heart. Back then, I started exercising more actively in my free time and regularly attended Jumping classes—which remain my passion to this day. In Jumping, I always found freedom, joy, dance elements, and a chance to go wild… it’s just awesome.

In the middle of my final year of high school, my journey with Neonka began—specifically in January 2019. My mom and I were watching a live stream where Ivanka and Viktor Torda talked about nutrition, weight loss, and lifestyle changes.

We looked at each other and said: "Let's do this together."

Hitting rock bottom: Part-time jobs and emotional eating

Together, we lost some weight, but more importantly, we understood how the body works, the concept of a calorie deficit, and what we need to function properly. In 2020, because of the pandemic, we were sent home. I was working part-time at Tesco, and every time I got home, my first path led to the fridge and then to the couch. I started struggling with emotional eating. I tried working out at home occasionally, but it just didn't click. The pounds kept piling up, and I didn't feel good.

The moment I said "ENOUGH"

In 2024, after I successfully graduated and saw myself in photos, I was horrified.

I told myself: "Nikola, enough! School is behind you; now it’s time to focus on yourself. You want to be happy and actually like what you see in the mirror."

I had fears—would I make it? Would my body hold up? Would I feel embarrassed? Was this just another short phase before I failed myself again? But I knew that if I wanted change, I had to start. Discipline and perseverance are key! I already knew a lot about Neonka thanks to my aunt, a long-time client who constantly praised it: the amazing community, friendly atmosphere, great instructors, and a huge variety of workouts. Since I was looking for group classes, I decided to go back.

Fighting for breath and shaky knees

My first steps led to their website—I opened the schedule and looked for cardio. Bodystep caught my eye. I went there with no idea what to expect or if I could even keep up with the jumping. Before the session, Dominika explained everything and reassured me that she would show easier modifications, so there was nothing to fear.

I’ll never forget my first Bodystep—I had no energy, my heart rate was sky-high, and I was sweaty and out of breath just after the warm-up :D. But Dominika’s encouragement kept me going the whole time. The muscle soreness was intense, but I knew it would only get better. Later, Dominika recommended adding strength training—Bodypump.

I started setting goals. My dream was to become a Jumping instructor—so I worked even harder. Double sessions of Step, discipline, determination... In March, I successfully completed my Jumping instructor course. And later, another goal came true—becoming an instructor at Neonka. I am incredibly grateful for it.

Results that changed my life

Now, a year later, I feel amazing and completely transformed. I’ve become a better version of myself. I am so proud of what I’ve achieved in just one year—losing 25 kg, becoming an instructor, and so much more. People tell me I’ve changed completely—both physically and mentally. I’m more open, I smile more, I enjoy an active life with joy, and I finally feel connected to my body.

During the transformation, I obviously had days when things didn't go as planned, but I always looked back at my "before" photo and told myself:

"Look how far you've come. Keep going!"

I want to say to anyone who is struggling or hesitating to start: You are not alone. All of us at Neonka have gone through tough times. The important thing is to stand up and do something about it—don't wait for it to happen on its own. Neonka has plenty of programs; just choose one and move forward.

We are in this together.

Remember: Pain is temporary, but results are permanent.