Cover Story:
KAYLA SMITH
FINDS STRENGTH THROUGH
130 POUND WEIGHT LOSS
TRANSFORMATION
PHOTOS BY BEN YOSEF (IMAGES WITH LOGO)
In the serene landscapes of Fairbanks, Alaska, the September 2024 IPL Golden Heart Classic welcomed a remarkable contestant—Kayla Smith. But Kayla’s journey to this stage is not merely a story of fitness triumph; it’s a profound transformation marked by resilience, vulnerability, and self-discovery.
"I am grateful for the many blessings that have come into my life. It hasn’t been overnight."
Lately, Kayla has been sharing snapshots of her life, showcasing moments of success and happiness that seem almost glamorous. “I am grateful for the many blessings that have come into my life,” she reflects, but she’s quick to emphasize, “It hasn’t been overnight.” Behind each polished photo lies a tale of hard work, personal growth, and an unwavering commitment to her own well-being.
The photo that often surfaces in her reflections was taken in 2019, during a period when despair loomed large. Kayla recalls a time when negative thoughts overshadowed her physical self. “I told myself it didn’t matter; I didn’t matter,” she admits, recalling the struggle to make healthy choices amid the weight of her emotions. In those moments, she felt invisible, believing that her worth was tied to external validation, rather than recognizing the strength that resided within.
“What does this mean? Will he have a normal childhood?"
As a mother, Kayla faced an even deeper challenge. After months of hearing concerns about her then 3.5-year-old son’s development, she found herself at a crossroads. The official diagnosis of Autism/ADHD brought both relief and trepidation. “What does this mean? Will he have a normal childhood?” she pondered. Suddenly, the chaos of life felt overwhelming, and Kayla realized that she needed to find control amid the uncertainty.
One day, an unexpected invitation to a workout changed everything. With a weight nearing 300 pounds and little experience in fitness, she hesitated. Seeking approval, she turned to her husband, who simply encouraged her to go. This small act of support was pivotal, igniting a spark of determination within her.
“No one was watching. It was all up to me. I know I am capable of doing hard things.”
As she committed to her workouts, Kayla began to embrace control over her life. She meticulously prepared the night before, setting her coffee and laying out her clothes. The first time she stepped out alone for a workout, a revelation struck her: “No one was watching. It was all up to me.” This realization ignited a sense of empowerment that she had long been missing.
Kayla’s journey over the past four years has been nothing short of transformative. She lost weight, gained strength, and, most importantly, cultivated self-love and self-worth. “I know I am capable of doing hard things,” she declares, a testament to her journey of growth and resilience. She’s not only evolved personally; she’s now a certified fitness coach, guiding others through their own health journeys.
“It truly takes time to develop the physical aspects of fitness, but the routine and consistency are within our control from day one.”
“I can see how strong the Kayla from that photo actually was,” she reflects. The strength and determination that lay dormant within her were always present, waiting for the right moment to emerge. Embracing her vulnerability allowed her to grow into the light she always carried inside.
Kayla’s journey is a reminder that transformation takes time and patience. It’s about showing up for oneself, regardless of how far others may seem ahead in their own journeys. “It truly takes time to develop the physical aspects of fitness,” she notes, “but the routine and consistency are within our control from day one.”
“I thank God for growth. Every step I take is most certainly stronger than the last. God bless the strength in all of us.”
Today, Kayla stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration, demonstrating that growth is possible when we embrace our challenges and take control of our responses. “I thank God for growth,” she shares. “Every step I take is most certainly stronger than the last.”
In her own words, “Believe that. God bless the strength in all of us.” Kayla Smith is not just a contestant in a fitness competition; she is a testament to the power of resilience, the importance of self-love, and the beauty of embracing one’s journey. INSPIRE
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