There are several common misconceptions about women’s fitness, reinforcing stereotypes that not only limit women, but may negatively impact their health. This conversation with Wahida Hussain is a reminder to cut out the noise and strive for your best self.
The recent winner of the Female Fit Model category in BD Muscle Show 2025 is not your typical body builder. She is a woman who wears many hats. The multi-talented powerhouse Wahida Hussain won the accolade organised by the Bangladesh Bodybuilding Community and sanctioned by the Bangladesh Bodybuilding Federation (BABBF).
Tell us how you started your fitness journey and what made you participate in the BD Muscle Show 2025
I used to play volleyball and I have always been athletic in school, like my supportive parents. It has only been five years that I have been going to the gym regularly. I am not a body builder, rather a fitness advocate and model. I have been practising my smile, walk and pose and posting my impromptu practice sessions which caught the attention of industry experts. I was hesitant at first, it was a last minute decision to enter the competition and I registered on the last day! I am still in awe that I won. I am grateful to my instructor Meem Apu at Ruslan’s Studio who has been a good mentor.
When is it a good time to join the gym?
Any time is a good time, so start when you are younger! It is when we are older that signs of aging show up physically and our need to be fit becomes more urgent. Our bone density, nutrition, genetic conditions – all of these factors contribute to the condition of our physique. We bend, lift objects, or reach up high to grip something on a daily basis. Apart from looking good, functional fitness is extremely important.
What advice would you give to the women who want to take their fitness journey seriously or join the gym?
Developing a new habit or breaking an old habit is a gradual process. It takes a few weeks and you have to be patient. Start small by dedicating 1 hour a day maybe twice or thrice a week. Consistency is key. People will doubt and criticise you with their words and actions, but you have to grow a thick skin on social media and in real life. Ironically they will come to you when you are successful. Till then you have to tune out the noise and overcome your fear.
Can you share your fitness routine? What is your future plan?
My goal is to be aesthetic and healthy by building muscle and losing fat. I train 3 to 4 times a week and I believe I do need to be a bit more disciplined regarding food. I am a teacher and singer by profession so I try to balance my work. I make time for what matters and outsource tasks that can be done by others. I hope to participate in international events.
Would you encourage young girls and women to participate in the upcoming contests?
Absolutely! I would love to see more female representation at these events. There are so many inspiring experts to learn from. For example, women can’t look like men even if we lift as hard as a man! It is important to clear these misconceptions. It is good to have healthy competition and ideal to work out with a goal in mind. It would be a win for me if someone who took inspiration from me competes against me and gets positive results.