“In professional bodybuilding competition, a lot of emphasis is based on symmetry, proportion and correct muscle activation to make the muscle ‘pop’,” she said. “Louis helped me in identifying the muscles and how to activate them. He also assisted me in differentiating between correct and incorrect movement patterns and he also showed me how I can present my best physique. As we practice, Louis and his colleague Gwen became my ‘judges’.

“In this sport, I know that if I wanted to win, I will have to work with the best. And I know I am working with the best when it comes to preventing injury, rehabilitation, and giving a tip-top performance. I want to win and for that I need a team like Physiowerkz that has a similar winning mindset.”

Two wins in a long line of others to come, Aiesha was exhilarated by the sessions she had undergone at Physiowerkz’s Infitnitum programme.

“Louis  is very particular about my progress. He pays attention to every detail but what I like is that he listens. The most important thing for me is that my physiotherapist or trainer listens to what I want. As a trained sports medicine doctor, I try to avoid template-based training. With Louis, I am happy that my training is individually customised to my needs instead of following a template.

“In bodybuilding, symmetry and balance is important. But since I have undergone many surgeries during my battle with the big C, I cannot activate certain muscles because of weaknesses. So here is where Louis came to the rescue. He taught me the various ‘muscle hacks’ that have enabled me to hold certain poses. He taught me corrective exercises to activate the targeted muscles using other muscles, and that give me the ability and confidence to present a proportionate and balanced physique to the judges.”

And wowed the judges she did at the British Finals.

“The exercises that Louis taught me improved my pose and gave me that boost to get an edge over other competitors.”
Would she share with readers what exercises were she taught?

“No,” she said with a laugh. “Those exercises will remain my trade secrets!”

Currently taking a breather from her winning streak, Aiesha is preparing for more medals under her belt. “I want to thank everyone who has helped me accomplish my goals and bring back these medals. We won these together. My win is our win.”

For those already in the bodybuilding fraternity or just starting out, Aiesha advises them not to neglect body maintenance work if they want to perform well.

 “All sportspersons should not neglect their maintenance work. You can push hard at the gym but you must also make sure you recover properly, under good supervision. A good team of physiotherapists, like what I have, will be able to help you recover fully and so that you can perform better at a higher stage.
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“There are two components to bear in mind,” she adds, “They are injury-prevention and physical maintenance. A good physiotherapist will help you take care of both. Only then will you be able to perform better with a competitive edge.”