“It’s not just about the physical transformation. It’s about growing stronger—mentally, emotionally, and physically. The weight loss was the product of a mindset shift, not just workouts.”
Audi Crooks, the 6-foot-3 center for the Iowa State Cyclones, isn’t just turning heads on the basketball court; she’s also inspiring people with her incredible weight loss journey. Her story is one of grit, determination, and empowerment—a true testament to the idea that change doesn’t just happen overnight. Audi, who weighed in at 250 pounds a year ago, dropped 45 pounds, getting down to 205 pounds, and it wasn’t just about slimming down—it was about reclaiming control over her body and mind.
Audi’s weight loss transformation didn’t happen because of a magic pill or a quick-fix fad diet. It happened because she took control of her life—combining strength training, cardio, balanced nutrition, and an unwavering mental resolve. Today, Audi shares her journey, the struggles she faced, and the key takeaways that helped her shed the pounds and build the mindset that led to her success.
The Beginning: Battling Expectations and Overcoming Mental Struggles
For Audi, the journey toward weight loss wasn’t just about her body—it was deeply emotional and psychological. As a basketball player with high aspirations, there were pressures not only on her performance but also on her appearance. For many athletes, weight is a crucial factor, especially when it comes to avoiding injuries and improving performance. But for Audi, there was more to the story. “It’s hard, because you’re constantly compared to others—your game, your appearance, your every move. And it gets overwhelming,” she says, reflecting on her early struggles.
As an athlete, she had always worked hard, but the emotional toll of being constantly in the public eye weighed heavily on her. “I remember seeing the trolls online, people criticizing my weight. It hurt, but I knew I had to push through. The most important thing wasn’t what they thought—it was how I felt about myself.”
That realization became the turning point for Audi. Instead of letting external pressures dictate her journey, she made the choice to embrace her own path—a path that would focus on her well-being, not just the number on the scale.
The Decision: A Shift in Focus and a Commitment to Change
In early 2024, Audi decided that it was time for a change. But unlike other weight-loss stories that are purely about looking different, Audi wanted more than just a change in appearance—she wanted to feel better, both physically and mentally. “I wanted to get stronger, not just smaller. I wanted to feel powerful in my body and confident in my mind,” Audi says.
The first step in her transformation was committing to a workout routine that would push her limits. Audi mixed strength training with cardio and began eating a more balanced diet. However, she soon learned that just eating less wasn’t the answer. “It’s not about starving yourself or cutting out all your favorite foods. It’s about eating what fuels your body, not just what tastes good in the moment,” she explains. Audi focused on portion control, whole foods, and protein-rich meals that supported her athletic performance. She cut down on processed snacks and sugary drinks, opting instead for nutritious options that kept her energy levels high.
But the real work began when she tackled her mindset. Audi recognized that losing weight wasn’t just about physical exercise—it was about building a mindset that would allow her to stay consistent and motivated. “I had to change how I thought about food, exercise, and my body. It wasn’t about restriction. It was about empowerment. It was about creating a healthy relationship with food and exercise,” she says.
The Physical Transformation: Strength Training, Cardio, and Consistency
Audi’s weight loss journey was a marathon, not a sprint. Over the course of about a year, she lost 45 pounds—going from 250 pounds to 205 pounds. And while the pounds may have come off gradually, the physical transformation was nothing short of remarkable.
To achieve this, Audi dedicated herself to a rigorous workout routine that included both strength training and cardio. She worked closely with trainers to build muscle and increase her endurance. “I didn’t just want to lose weight; I wanted to get stronger. I wanted to improve my performance on the court. Lifting weights became my go-to,” Audi shares.
Her cardio regimen involved a mix of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and running, which kept her heart rate up and helped burn fat. She also incorporated exercises that improved her agility and flexibility, which were crucial for her basketball skills.
But while the physical workouts were key to her transformation, Audi also embraced rest and recovery. “I realized that rest is just as important as working out. If you don’t allow your body time to recover, you won’t make progress,” she emphasizes. Audi’s holistic approach to fitness involved balancing intense workouts with proper recovery, stretching, and mindful relaxation.
The Mental Shift: Building Confidence and Resilience
What sets Audi’s journey apart is not just the weight she lost but the mental and emotional growth she underwent during the process. “The physical transformation was just the surface. The real transformation was what happened in my mind,” Audi explains.
There were moments when Audi faced self-doubt and the temptation to give up. “There were days when I felt like I wasn’t making progress. But I kept reminding myself that every small step mattered. It wasn’t about perfection; it was about consistency,” she says.
A key part of Audi’s mental growth involved setting realistic goals and celebrating small victories. Whether it was a new personal best in lifting or simply feeling more confident in her skin, each milestone added to her sense of empowerment. “I had to learn to appreciate the process, not just the end result. Every pound lost, every day I showed up for myself, was a victory,” she reflects.
Audi Crooks’ Tips for Weight Loss Success
So, what can others learn from Audi’s inspiring journey? Here are a few of the lessons she’s learned that can help anyone on their own weight loss journey:
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Set Realistic Goals: Audi recommends setting small, achievable goals that keep you motivated along the way. “Don’t expect drastic changes overnight. Celebrate the small wins.”
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Focus on Consistency, Not Perfection: Audi stresses that consistency is key. “You don’t have to be perfect every day. Just show up and keep pushing forward.”
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Balance Your Workouts: Strength training and cardio are both important. Audi suggests finding a balance that works for you and challenges your body.
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Mindset is Everything: Your mental game can make or break your progress. Audi encourages people to stay positive and focus on building a healthy relationship with food and exercise.
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Rest and Recovery Matter: Don’t underestimate the power of rest. Audi’s journey proved that recovery is just as crucial as hard work in the gym.
FAQ:
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How much weight did Audi Crooks lose? Audi Crooks lost 45 pounds, going from 250 pounds to 205 pounds over the course of a year.
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What was Audi Crooks’ workout routine? Audi’s routine included strength training, cardio (HIIT and running), and agility exercises to improve her basketball performance.
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How did Audi Crooks stay motivated during her weight loss journey? Audi stayed motivated by setting small, achievable goals and focusing on consistency rather than perfection.
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What was Audi Crooks’ diet plan? Audi focused on eating balanced meals with whole foods, cutting out processed snacks and sugary drinks while incorporating more protein-rich foods.
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What is Audi Crooks’ advice for others on a weight loss journey? Audi advises others to focus on consistency, set realistic goals, and embrace both physical and mental growth along the way.
Audi Crooks’ Transformation
Audi Crooks’ journey is a powerful reminder that weight loss is not just about looking different—it’s about feeling stronger, more confident, and more empowered. Through a combination of strength, resilience, and dedication, Audi transformed not only her body but her entire approach to health and well-being. She’s a true inspiration for anyone striving to make positive changes in their own lives, showing that with the right mindset and hard work, anything is possible.