Sabina Shrestha: Turning Self-Doubt Into Strength

Peoples
The Buzz Nepal
June 26 , 2025

Sabina Shrestha is a certified personal trainer and Corrective Functional Exercise Coach (CFEC) since 2023. She’s also a competitive weightlifter, proud to have secured 3rd place in the 26th Men’s and 11th Women’s National Weightlifting Championships in 2024. But behind her achievements is a powerful story of growth, self-discovery, and purpose.

Sabina’s fitness journey began not on the gym floor, but behind the reception desk. Working as a front desk officer in a gym, she often interacted with clients – but struggled to answer their basic questions about workouts and equipment. “I felt guilty,” she recalls. “I was the face of the gym, but I didn’t know how to explain what the equipment did or why exercise mattered.”

That discomfort turned into determination. Sabina started learning from trainers, and eventually decided to get certified herself. What started as a desire to better serve others became a calling to help people take charge of their health.

Her Approach to Diets and Nutrition

Sabina is often asked about popular diet trends like keto, intermittent fasting, and plant-based eating. Her take? There’s no one-size-fits-all. “All three diets have their own benefits and scientific backing,” she explains, “but the best diet is one that fits your body, lifestyle, and that you can stick to in the long run.” She emphasizes balance and sustainability over trends.

When it comes to small changes that can make a big difference, Sabina recommends increasing fiber intake. Food rich in fiber support better digestion, heart health, gut balance, and weight management – making this one shift a powerful step toward better well-being.

Motivation and Mindset

Despite working long hours from 5 AM to 8 PM, Sabina admits she sometimes feels unmotivated. But it’s her clients who keep her going. “Some of my clients are in their 60s and 70s. Seeing their dedication reminds me that fitness is about quality of life, not just looks. That keeps me grounded and inspired.”

Her Fitness Advice for Beginners

Sabina strongly believes that fitness should be accessible to all. For those starting their journey, she recommends a simple, no-equipment workout plan that can be done in minimal space.

Beginner-Friendly Routine:

Frequency: 3-4 sessions per week
Sets/Reps: 3-4 sets of 10-15 reps
Warm-Up (5 mins): Jog/march in place, arm circles, light squats
Main Workout: Bodyweight squats, push-ups, glute bridges, side lunges, plank holds, dead hangs (if a bar is available)
Cool Down: Stretch major muscles – hamstrings, quads, chest, shoulders, and back

Empowering Others Through Knowledge

More than anything, Sabina’s goal is to make people independent in their fitness journey.

“I want to share what I’ve learned so others don’t feel lost like I once did. With the right knowledge, anyone can learn to take care of their own health.”

Her story is a testament to what’s possible when determination meets purpose. From being unsure and uninformed to becoming a trusted guide in the fitness community, Sabina Shrestha continues to inspire others to believe in their potential – and never stop growing.