My name is Rahel Ruch. I have been working in the fitness industry for over 30 years. Coaching and supporting my clients and athletes have been a central part of my daily life. As a multiple world champion in bodybuilding, Miss Universe, European champion, and having spent the final years of my career as a professional bodybuilder, I have gained a wealth of experience and expertise. Today, I also work as a therapist specialising in pain management, gut health, cellular health and nutritional advice, including the optimisation of dietary supplements, which are among my areas of expertise. In this way, I not only help my clients achieve a great physique, but I also support them in achieving holistic health. This is something very close to my heart.
1. When was the moment in your life when you realised that bodybuilding might be the right path for you?
I was very successful right from the start. I competed in my first contests as a Miss Fitness. In my first contest, I came second. That was the qualifier for the World Championships. So my second contest was the World Championships, where I eventually finished in 13th place. Even back then, in 1998, it was clear that I had a certain talent for this sport. My success also fuelled my motivation to keep getting better.
2. Looking back on your journey today – what are you most proud of, not just as an athlete, but as a person?
What I’m most proud of is that I was able to keep going in this sport at such a high level for so long. It takes enormous discipline and sacrifice. In my day, conditions were different from today. To become a professional, you had to win a World Championship title, which I managed to do. Today, professional licences are practically handed out to athletes. I am happy and grateful to have been an active bodybuilder between 1998 and 2013. These days, I wouldn’t have the heart for it anymore.
As a person, I am particularly proud that I never gave up, even though the road was often rocky and far from easy.
3. What inner convictions or values have helped you to keep going, even in difficult times?
The most important thing is never to give up! When I set myself a goal, I’m very focused and work constantly on becoming a better version of myself. That’s still the case today. There are always setbacks in life, but it’s precisely when you’re down and out and you pick yourself up and carry on that you grow the most.
4. What message would you like to share with women who feel deep down that they could be stronger, but haven’t yet plucked up the courage to take the first step?
Stepping out of your comfort zone is uncomfortable but necessary.
Whenever you want to make a change, you have to take that first step at some point, and that’s exactly when we’re here to help as coaches.
We’ll pick you up, we’ll support you, we’ll encourage you, and we’ll help you build your confidence. But it’s up to you to do it – no one else.
If you had to sum up your story in a single feeling or thought – what advice would you give to other women?
- Have goals in life
- Be brave
- Believe in yourselves
- Never give up
- Seek help to support your goals.