In the world of strength sports, where perseverance, discipline, and determination reign supreme, Olivia Coutinho has emerged as a trailblazer. As the first Women’s Physique Champion from Goa and a seven-time gold medalist in the category, Olivia has redefined what it means to be a female athlete in bodybuilding and weightlifting. Her remarkable journey, marked by dedication and resilience, has positioned her as a national-level competitor ranked 6th overall and a gold medalist at Khelo India in weightlifting.
From Weightlifting to Bodybuilding: The Beginning of a Champion
Three years ago, Olivia began her journey in weightlifting, finding immense joy and thrill in the sport. However, the lack of competitive opportunities led her to transition into bodybuilding, where she discovered the same excitement of stepping on stage and showcasing her strength. This shift in focus proved to be a turning point, as she quickly ascended to the top ranks, winning multiple accolades in Women’s Physique competitions.
Inspired by Fitness: A Family Legacy
Olivia attributes her passion for fitness and sports to her parents, who always emphasized the importance of a healthy and active lifestyle. Their encouragement fueled her commitment to breaking stereotypes and pushing past limitations. In a society where women in bodybuilding are often met with skepticism, Olivia embraced the challenge of muscle-building with confidence and determination.
The Road to Success: Training, Nutrition, and Discipline
For Olivia, training is a non-negotiable aspect of her daily routine. She ensures her workouts take place in the morning, allowing her to plan the rest of her day efficiently. A firm believer in the power of nutrition, she emphasizes the role of protein in building quality muscles. Understanding that each individual requires a tailored approach, Olivia follows a meticulously curated workout and diet plan suited to her body type and goals.
Balancing intense training sessions, strict meal plans, and a structured routine is crucial in maintaining consistency. “Bodybuilding is a sport that demands year-round commitment, and weightlifting, being highly injury-prone, requires smart recovery strategies,” she says. Olivia has faced her share of setbacks, but with the right guidance and a strong support system, she has always found a way to bounce back stronger.
Mentorship and Mental Strength: Keys to Overcoming Challenges
Olivia credits much of her success to her dedicated coach, Avidh Morajkar, who continually pushes her beyond her limits. His training philosophy has played a vital role in shaping her as a top-tier athlete. Apart from physical training, Olivia also focuses on mental well-being through meditation and self-talk, reinforcing a mindset of resilience. She believes that maintaining a ‘don’t care’ attitude towards negativity helps her stay focused on her goals.
Breaking Stereotypes and Encouraging Women in Fitness
Women in bodybuilding often face misconceptions, one of the most prevalent being the assumption that they are aggressive due to their muscular physique. Olivia counters this stereotype, highlighting that bodybuilders are among the most disciplined and grounded individuals. She is thrilled to witness more women embracing fitness and stepping onto the bodybuilding stage, signifying a shift in societal perceptions.
Future Goals and Words of Wisdom
Looking ahead, Olivia’s ambitions are set on becoming the best in India and serving as a source of inspiration for aspiring athletes. Her advice to those entering the world of bodybuilding is simple yet powerful: “Never give up, no matter how hard it gets or what people say. If you want it badly, give your 100% and go for it.” Her three pillars of success—Dedication, Discipline, and Consistency—serve as guiding principles for anyone looking to achieve greatness in the sport.
Life Beyond the Gym: Passions and Indulgences
If not for bodybuilding, Olivia admits she would have pursued powerlifting. Despite her strict regimen, she has a soft spot for ice cream—though she has found healthier alternatives to satisfy her cravings. One of the wildest things she has done? Training even while recovering from injuries, proving that nothing can keep her from her passion for fitness.
Olivia Coutinho’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the will to defy societal norms. As she continues to make her mark in the industry, she remains an emblem of strength and inspiration for the next generation of athletes
