Train Like MMA Fighter Pearl Gonzalez

PEARL GONZALEZ - MMA FIGHTER AND TEAM 4LIFE^® MEMBER

If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to become a professional MMA fighter, the answer is a lot of hard work, eating healthy foods, waking up early for workouts, and taking well-researched supplements. We caught up with MMA fighter Pearl Gonzalez to ask her what she does to get fit and stay in amazing shape.

What are your greatest challenges?

My biggest challenges are to simplify my life, stay focused, and adhere to consistent routines. Through training, studying high-level athletes, reading books, and listening to podcasts, I’ve learned that success lies in a set, everyday routine that includes daily food planning and mental preparation. This routine has helped me evolve as an athlete and stay focused and disciplined.

What keeps you motivated?

I lost my debut professional fight, and that was a wakeup call. My competitor had more experience, but I wasn’t mentally or physically prepared. I never wanted to feel that way again, and it pushed me to be a better fighter. Today, I’m competing at the highest level of my sport.

What are your go-to healthy meals?

I love making smoothies and protein bowls with PRO-TF® Protein. If I crave something sweet, I blend PRO-TF Chocolate with cherries, bananas, cacao nibs, and chia seeds. I put it in a glass with unsweetened coconut flakes, candied pecans, goji berries, and cinnamon on top with a fancy straw. For protein bowls, I blend PRO-TF with frozen fruit and almond milk so it’s thick and creamy. I top it with bananas, strawberries, blueberries, granola, coconut flakes, honey, and cinnamon.

What’s your guilty food pleasure?

I love pizza! I allow myself to have it once a month. I make it myself so I can add all of my favorite ingredients, and I know exactly what’s going into my body.

How do 4Life® products support your success?

I drink Energy Go Stix^® Berry every morning on the way to the gym. I train for up to eight hours a day, six days a week. Energy Go Stix gives me an extra push to get through the week. I also rely on 4LifeTransform Burn^® to support my progress. I drink PRO-TF every morning and before and after my workouts. It’s great because it’s a clean, high-quality protein.*

What are your transformation goals?

My current goal is consistency with weight and recovery. I had to lose approximately 20 lbs to reach the correct weight for my first UFC fight. That can be dangerous if not done correctly. Recovery is always a struggle, but it’s important to keep performance high and injury at bay. I get enough rest and do foam roller exercises and stretching. Water intake and PRO-TF help my body recover and prepare for the next day’s training.*

What are your best body transformation tips?

First, becoming healthy is a lifestyle, and transformation doesn’t happen overnight. Start with clean eating and exercise. Stick to your goals 100% four days per week, and allow leniency for the other three. After a few weeks, add another day. I give myself one cheat meal per week so I can stay focused the rest of the week.

Second, even if you fall off your diet and exercise regimen, keep up your water and supplement intake to maintain your progress. Drink at least half of your body weight in oz of water each day. If you’re more active, drink a gallon daily. Water helps keep your digestive tract moving, which is key for maintaining good health.