A persistent string of signals from her body and mind alerted Samantha van der Merwe to her problematic weight gain and declining health, prompting her to look for solutions, with the NPL Body Rev Challenge coming to the rescue.

“I was experiencing endless fatigue, unpredictable mood swings, inflammation in my joints, and bloating became a regular discomfort for me,” recalls Samantha.

“But what truly struck me was my inability to fully engage with my daughters due to my lack of energy and inability to be the present, active mom they deserved.”

Personal stats

  • Age: 33
  • Lives: Langebaan, Western Cape
  • Career: Client Experience Analyst
  • Weight before: 74kg
  • Weight after: 63kg
  • IG: samantha.vdmerwe

Unhealthy coping mechanism

Samantha’s weight gain and declining health followed surgery to remove a cancerous tumour from her glute.

“While I was fortunate to avoid further surgeries or treatments, the experience shook me to my core and left me grappling with negative emotions. Stress became my constant companion and binge eating and drinking became my coping mechanism.”

Feeling stuck in a vicious cycle of fatigue, frustration, and constant discomfort, Samantha knew something had to change.

“I felt a desire deep within me to reclaim my sense of strength and resilience.”

READ MORE | Micha sheds unwanted weight to earn top spot in NPL Body Rev Challenge

Finding her fit

Samantha initially experimented with extreme diets and sporadic exercise routines, without really having a structured plan.

“I would lose interest quickly and throw in the towel when I didn’t see immediate results because I was impatience and had unrealistic expectations.”

Samantha knew she needed a different approach as her simply winging it lacked balance and sustainability.

She decided to join the NPL Body Revolution Challenge because a structured plan would make committing to the process easier while helping her achieve the lasting changes she wanted.

READ MORE | Inspiring 12-week transformation earns Justin top spot in NPL Body Revolution Challenge

Challenge accepted

“Having previously experienced remarkable results with NPL, I knew their program offered the framework I needed. The combination of structured workouts, tailored diet plans, supplements, and supportive community motivated me to restart my journey to better health and fitness.”

Marking her second attempt at the NPL Body Rev Challenge, Samantha was determined to return stronger and more focused than before.

“I was ready to recapture the feeling of self-assurance and the vision of a better, healthier version of myself.”

Her transformation journey involved a blend of strength training, cardio and a balanced diet rich in whole foods, supported by NPL supplements.

Samantha’s NPL supplement stack included:

READ MORE | Xavier gets back on track with NPL Body Revolution transformation challenge

Incredible support

“Overcoming mental barriers and staying consistent meant the challenge was intense but empowering. It really pushed me to confront my bad habits and make positive changes to my lifestyle. Showing up for myself even on the days when I didn’t want to was really hard.”

Thankfully, Samantha had incredible support from her family, especially her husband, which helped her remain committed through the tough times.

“Having my husband in the gym, offering his encouragement, and his belief in me pushed me to give my all. He constantly reminded me of my reasons for embarking on this transformation.”

The support Samantha received from NPL was another contributing factor to her overall success. “The expert advice, tips, and weekly emails we received during the challenge kept me motivated and accountable every step of the way.”

READ MORE | Christopher revs his body back into condition with NPL

Mind and body benefits

Completing the challenge helped Samantha lose 11 kilos, earning the NPL Body Revolution Challenge female title.

“In addition to the physical transformation, I noticed a huge improvement in my mental well-being. My confidence soared and I felt motivated in everything I did. This positive shift has had such a big impact on all my relationships in both my personal and professional lives. I’m taking things on with newfound energy and enthusiasm.”

Following her successful transformation, Samantha has come to realise that hard work definitely pays off.

“I came to understand that sustainable change requires a holistic approach that prioritises balanced nutrition, consistent exercise, and a positive mindset. I now know that my body thrives on balanced, whole-grain foods, and that movement and exercise serve as potent stress relievers.”

For anyone else contemplating a similar transformation journey, Samantha recommends that you focus on progress, not perfection.

“Approach your journey with patience and persistence. Even if you are just 1% better than you were yesterday, you’re moving in the right direction.”

Quick facts

  • Favourite healthy dish: Bun-less ostrich burgers
  • Favourite training routine: Back and biceps
  • Must-use supplements: NPL Diet Pro, NPL Thermo Cuts Gold, NPL Nighttime Burn, NPL Amino Burn
  • Top diet tip: You don’t have to starve yourself to lose weight. Focus on portion control and eat plenty of protein, vegetables, and healthy fats to stay satisfied and fuelled through the day.