The 7 secrets to getting a body like super fitness influencer Stef Williams
IF there’s a figure we really aspire to, it’s that of Stef Williams, previously known as Stef Fit on Instagram.
The social media sensation and founder of activewear brand Sefi and workout app WeGLOW, has amassed 1.5 million followers on the gram, and for good reason.
Showcasing abs that almost seem unreal as well as curves in ALL the right places, Stef proves hard work and consistency are key for keeping fit and staying in shape.
Naturally, genetics come into play here too (no-one looks THIS good without some family luck) but there are some day to day habits Stef implements to keep her on track.
And no, we’re not talking extreme diets or hours spent yawning at the gym.
These seven pointers are actually all do-able…
1. She does strength training for a toned core
Abs like Stef’s don’t come easy, but ensuring weights become a regular part of your exercise regime will help make yours stronger.
“It’s important to note that strength training has a big impact on your core as you’re engaging it for all of your compound moves (such as squats, lunges and deadlifts), so having a full body workout program combined with a personalised meal plan to reduce body fat means those abs will pop,” says Stef.
“You’re more likely to achieve a strong core with compound moves and full body workouts over crunches.”
Grab a set of dumbbells next time you workout and make your bodyweight moves that little bit tougher.
If you fancy a do-it-now move that will burn abs fast, try Stef’s go-to leg raise.
Lie on the ground, back black, legs extended out.
Then slowly lift both legs together, keeping them as straight as possible, up to the ceiling, before slowly lowering back down. Repeat 10 times.
2. She moves every day
This doesn’t mean pounding a treadmill for hours.
In fact, Stef reveals she only works out for half the week.
“My routine has been so up and down recently with Christmas.
“I try to move my body every day by walking and then aim for three sessions a week.
“My app WeGLOW has so many workouts, so if I’m feeling ready for something intense, it has me covered and equally if I fancy a stretch, I can do that too.
“I also love swimming and running so I try to implement them in my routine where I can.”
3. She makes sleep a priority
You might not assume sleep has too much of a part to play when it comes to sculpting a fit physique, but Stef ensures sleep is up there on her list of priorities.
“Sleep is so important to not only feel energised and ready to move your body the next day, but for your positivity and mindset too – all the things that make us feel amazing!
“I love getting into bed at around 10pm and aim to get to sleep by 10.30pm.
“Depending on the season, when it’s colder and darker outside I definitely get up later, but aim to get up at 6.30am.
“I find that getting into bed and taking the time to unwind sets me up for a great night’s sleep.”
4. She doesn’t skip booze
It might not exactly be the nutritional powerhouse we wish it was (wine comes from grapes, so that counts right!?), but according to Stef, there’s no need to ditch the alcohol completely.
“I think balance is crucial.
“I love being healthy and eating intuitively to fuel my body, but I also love a glass of wine with dinner or on a date night, or a cocktail if I’m feeling a little spicier.
“Espresso Martinis or Picantes are my go-to!”
5. Yes, she snacks on chocolate
Not many people can swerve the temptation of sweet and savoury nibbles.
Stef recommends intuitive eating, which involves listening to your body and noticing hunger cues.
“I love snacks. If I’m hungry or feel like my energy is dipping then I’ll reach for something that will help.”
And, while fruit (her favourites are apples and pears) are always close by, the evening calls for crisps and chocolate.
“I am so obsessed with Popchips so I’ll often opt for those, or some dark chocolate with sea salt.
“There’s a narrative that snacking is naughty and there is a myth that snacking will prevent you from reaching your goals, but the reality isn’t about when you eat, but rather how much and the quality of what you’re eating.”
6. She doesn’t label foods ‘good’ or ‘bad’
Cheat days are often reserved for the fitterati; they essentially allow you to take a diet break and eat, well, whatever the hell you want.
Although she’s certainly part of the fit crew, Stef explains she’s not a fan of ‘cheat days’.
“The term ‘cheat days’ makes it seem like you’re doing something wrong and that there are ‘bad’ and ‘good’ foods when in reality some foods are simply more nutrient dense than others,” she says.
“We should never feel ‘guilty’ when it comes to food.
“I make sure I’m always eating really wholesome food as it makes me feel amazing.
“But like everyone, sometimes I crave non-wholesome foods.
“There are times like date nights or occasions where food is a part of the experience – you never want to look back on a memory thinking, ‘I didn’t have that even though I really wanted it’.”
7. She makes time for R&R
Rest and relaxation are key in a healthy body and mind.
In fact, too little rest can lead to high stress levels, which in turn can actually lead to weight gain, especially on the tummy.
Although Stef is busy running two businesses she still tries to make time to rest.
“If I do get the time, a pamper evening where I really take my time with skincare and haircare always feels like such a treat.
“Or a sit on the sofa watching Friends is always great to switch off.”
