While body building is perceived masculine in nature by most ladies, Doreen Dee Kumbatira has proved that it is misrepresentation of facts.
“Basically it all started with simply keeping fit and trying to eat healthier. Over time I started loving the benefits I was reaping and I was soon hooked to this amazing lifestyle. Some of the benefits were, Iosing weight, toning up and most importantly feeling great and loving the way I looked”, she explained.
Kumbatira is a Blantyre-based body builder who is Malawi’s first Female Bodybuilder whose passion for the sport, has brought trophies as well as awards.
Kumbatira told ProjectM her interest to become a body builder started after discovering fellow women in the sport.
“Having being in the fitness lifestyle for some time made me discover avenues in fitness like bodybuilding. With an in-depth research I grew found of the sport and decided and join. I soon gathered the courage to compete and signed up for my first show! The Gentle Giant in the category of Bikini Fitness over 173 cm, where I placed 5 out of 13 girls, being my very first show, I was motivated”,
In 2019 she participated in the Arnold Schwarzenegger Classic Africa and further went to compete in another one show called SA Xtreme where I got a gold medal as placed 1st.
“This win enabled me to get another invitation to the prestigious Arnold Schwarzenegger Classic Africa the following year. COVID happened and I postponed the show. I haven’t completed since then. Am planning for two shows towards the end of this year, they will both be in South Africa”, she explained.
Although she seems to have changed the perception about the sport, many ladies fear the lifting weights will make them lose their feminine appearance, Kumbatira is encouraging fellow ladies by sayin
“you are strong, capable, and resilient. Your journey to fitness is a beautiful testament to your dedication and determination. Keep pushing yourself, stay committed, and remember that every step you take brings you closer to your goals”, she explained.
She also shares her fitness journey, training tips, nutrition tips on social media platforms and can be followed on @DEEKEEPSFIT.
