Top model Ridwan Mustafa weighed 120kg once before
April 6, 2019
Ridwan Mustafa's daily routine today consist of a 30-minute jog five to six times a week.
Young and charismatic, with a million-watt smile lighting up Shell billboards throughout Malaysia, Ridwan Mustafa is the face of several prominent brands, including MILO NutriG, Nestlé's Every Day, DARLIE, and Dashing. As one of the most sought-after top models in the country, Ridwan embodies the ideal of fitness and health. However, his journey to success is not just about his well-toned physique and six-pack abs; it’s a story of transformation from a 120-kilogram youth to a health icon adored by many.
Early life and struggles Born and raised in Felda, Terengganu, Ridwan grew up in an environment where healthy living was a foreign concept. “There were no parks, no jogging paths, and no awareness of a healthy lifestyle,” he recalls. His diet consisted mostly of dishes rich in coconut milk and oil, with fried foods and curries dominating every meal. Rice was a staple at breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and plain water was a rarity. “This is the culture we have in Malaysia, especially in remote areas. The idea of eating before six or seven at night was nonexistent,” he explains. As a child, Ridwan was noticeably larger than his peers, wearing a pant size 33 inches by the age of 12. By the time he entered university, he had reached 120 kilograms. “During my school days, my appearance made it hard to get attention. Although I was talented, I was often overlooked for opportunities,” he admits, reflecting on the resentment he felt towards those who were chosen instead of him. The turning point Ridwan’s life took a drastic turn when he was diagnosed with hypertension and high cholesterol at the age of 23. “I was suffering from dizzy spells, headaches, and constant itching due to toxin buildup,” he recalls. Faced with a choice between medication and weight loss, he chose the latter. “I had a flashback of all the things that had happened, and I decided to make a change. I wanted my peers and those who rejected me at school to know who I am,” he shares. A new beginning His transformation began with a drastic change in diet. He eliminated rice from his meals for the first eight months, replacing it with wholemeal bread. “Initially, it was hard, but I had to stop. I learned that carbohydrates come from various sources, not just rice,” he explains. Four basic principles Ridwan adhered to four basic principles that guided his journey:
As a result of these changes, Ridwan lost six kilograms in just one week and an impressive 30 kilograms within eight months. Motivated by his progress, he committed to working out for an hour and a half every day at the gym. By then, he had dropped to a pant size 38. Current routine and lifestyle Today, Ridwan maintains a disciplined routine that includes a 30-minute jog five to six times a week. He continues to adhere to the four principles that transformed his life, abstaining from processed foods and focusing on natural options. His diet consists of proteins like chicken breast, fish, eggs, and plenty of vegetables. “I don’t take any supplements; I rely solely on natural foods,” he emphasizes. Ridwan Mustafa’s journey is not just about losing weight; it’s about inspiring others to embrace a healthier lifestyle. His story serves as a testament to the power of determination and the impact of making conscious choices for a better future. |
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