Get to know: Sophie Aris

bulk-athlete-health

From Art teacher in Oldham to bikini competitor and now health-and-fitness guru, Sophie’s friendly face, bubbly personality and relatable content has gained her over half a million Instagram followers. We sat down with our brand-new ambassador to find out more about her journey into the fitness world.

When did you first get into fitness?

About six years ago I started going to the gym, but I would just stay on the cross trainer for 30 minutes and read a magazine because I was so intimidated by the weights area.

Then, I started dating someone who competed in bodybuilding competitions and learnt more about nutrition and started lifting weights. I went along to one of his competitions and I remember thinking the women on stage in the bikini competition were incredible! I said to myself the year after I would be up on that stage. I went on to win the UKBFF North West Championships two years running after that.

What made you realise you didn’t want to compete anymore?

It was my mum – she didn’t like me doing the competitions. She told me after one competition that I was losing friends as I would never go out and socialise. It just clicked after that that I wasn’t healthy and happy.

How do you approach your health now?

I’m totally flexible with my eating and I don’t track my calories or macros on an app anymore.

It’s about finding a weight you feel confident and comfortable with – I’m now 10kg heavier than when I competed, but so much happier in my own skin.

How do you look after your mental health?

I’ve really started to make my mental health a priority this year. Like many people my mental health is up and down, but that’s the world we live in today. I’ve come to learn that happiness isn’t a given, it’s something you have to work on every day.

What are your goals for the rest of 2019?

I want to go into schools to talk about social media and how to build a brand. I think it’s really important that kids learn early on about the reality of the internet and social.

What are your favourite Bulk products?

Every day I mix the Vegan Series Protein Powder in with oats and berries for breakfast. I love the white chocolate and coconut flavour. Most days I’ll have the cookies and cream Macro Munch, too. It’s so delicious!

Follow Sophie on Instagram – @sophie_aris

Related articles

Eager to learn more? We believe that every person, with support, has the right to transform their lives through fitness. That’s why we’ve put together hundreds of articles with expert advice, all to help you on your fitness journey.

Bulk into Sunday Times Top 100
Anthony Joshua announcement
International Women’s Day
More info on You vs You
Bulk × Barratt: Who are Barratt?
Bulk × Barratt: What’s your sweet side?
Sustainability at Bulk™
Anthony Joshua facts

Did you enjoy this article?

Thank you for your feedback