A woman shares how she went from detesting walking to running a marathon and lost 63 kg in a year



Regaining health, confidence, and self-belief is more important than simply losing weight. During a straightforward hike, Niki Chawla had an epiphany that led to her transformation rather than a rigorous diet or gym membership. Niki tried a short 4 km walk in 2021 but had to stop midway because of excruciating leg cramps. She became aware of the physical toll that an unhealthy lifestyle had taken on her that day.

She felt emotionally and physically exhausted and decided it was time to make a change.
In addition to losing a substantial amount of weight over the ensuing years, Niki developed a long-lasting fitness regimen based on strength training, walking, and a healthy diet. Her story is about perseverance, self-control, and little actions that add up to big outcomes—not about shortcuts or quick fixes. Here is the step-by-step transformation of Niki and how her story inspired countless others.


The Start of the Adventure


Niki's journey wasn't easy at first, like many others'. She would cry every time she walked even a kilometer because of shin splints. Exercise appeared to be more of a punishment than a means of improving one's health, and every step felt difficult. But Niki persisted in spite of her discomfort. She clung to the little triumphs, such as feeling rejuvenated after going for a walk, and used them as motivation to keep going.


Getting Strong During the Lockdown


Niki found that the COVID-19 lockdown was actually a boon. She made the decision to put her health first since she had more free time and fewer outside distractions. She started taking regular walks and noticed physical and mental changes. For her, walking evolved from exercise to therapy.

Niki had trouble with emotional eating at first. She would turn to fast food for temporary relief from stress, such as pizza, cakes, and burgers, but the guilt would linger. She observed a change in her attitude after she started exercising regularly. Instead of turning to food as an escape, she learned to deal with her stress.


Big Changes, Little Steps


Niki never chose drastic exercise regimens or trendy diets. Rather, she prioritized healthy, home-cooked meals. She started to pay attention to her diet, making sure her plate had all the necessary nutrients. Her strategy grew more viable over time. She developed a Sunday meal preparation routine that helped her maintain consistency throughout the week.

Additionally, walking became a necessary component of her everyday schedule. She found it difficult to walk short distances at first, but after six months, she was able to walk 200 meters a day and 10 kilometers every day.


Niki combined her walks with easy at-home strength training routines. Additionally, she educated herself on portion control, nutrient balance, and calorie intake. She used discipline as a shield and knowledge as a weapon.


Long-Term Weight Loss


Niki had to deal with the fear of gaining weight again by 2022. Thinking it would help, she began skipping meals and substituting fruit or protein bars. However, this made her feel exhausted. She realized her error and resumed following her regimented meal plans, which caused her energy levels to increase once more.


Losing weight and developing a better relationship with her body and food were Niki's goals when it came to fitness.
Accomplishments and Significant Events
By starting a hiking club in 2023, Niki expanded her passion for walking. The group developed into a place where like-minded people could congregate, enjoy the outdoors, and inspire one another. Their monthly hikes turned into a means of accountability, happiness, and camaraderie.


Niki had walked more than 1000 kilometers by 2024, and she had even covered up to 30 kilometers in a single stretch. She never imagined that her hard work would earn her a spot in the coveted Chicago Marathon 2025.


Thoughts and Acquired Knowledge


In retrospect, Niki says that the most healing activity she ever engaged in was walking. Even if it's only ten minutes a day, she advises everyone to start small and work their way up.
Niki now views fitness as about feeling good, being strong, and living life to the fullest rather than reaching a specific weight or size.
She also considers how she battled bullying and body image problems as a child. Niki always understood that her worth was not determined by her appearance, even though she was made fun of for being overweight.

Her experience serves as a reminder that progress, not perfection, is what fitness is all about. It's about enjoying the journey and accepting every stage, no matter how gradual.

In addition to being a changed person, Niki Chawla is now an inspiration to anyone who feels like they are just getting started on their fitness path. Her advice is straightforward but impactful: begin modestly, maintain consistency, and acknowledge each small accomplishment as it occurs.