In the world of endurance sports, nutrition is often regarded as the hidden key to success. Gabby Villa, a seasoned dietitian and sports nutritionist, understands this more than most. Her journey from a swimmer with body image issues to a passionate triathlete and expert in sports nutrition is both inspiring and informative.
Early Struggles with Body Image
Gabby’s path to nutrition was anything but straightforward. Growing up in Saltillo, Mexico, she experienced firsthand the pressure of food restriction and body consciousness, often fueled by well-intentioned but misguided parental advice. Despite being an active child, her relationship with food was shaped by diets her family followed, which led to an unhealthy preoccupation with exercise and body image.
Discovering Triathlon
In her teenage years, Gabby found solace in swimming, which laid the foundation for her future as an endurance athlete. It wasn’t until she participated in her first family triathlon relay that she discovered her true passion for the sport. From that moment, the energy, the challenge, and the excitement of crossing the finish line became a driving force in her life.
Transition to Sports Nutrition
Gabby’s academic journey mirrored her athletic one. Although her struggles with body image might have suggested a clear link to studying nutrition, her decision to pursue a degree in dietetics stemmed from a desire to coach and support athletes—motivated by a dissatisfaction with how coaching was handled in her early years as a swimmer. Combining her interest in sports and nutrition, Gabby realized that she could help others optimize their performance by focusing on the fuel they put into their bodies.
Becoming a Sports Nutrition Specialist
After obtaining her degree in dietetics in Monterrey, Gabby further specialized in sports nutrition through the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and began working with athletes in kayaking, rowing, and sailing. This experience cemented her understanding of the intricate relationship between food, performance, and recovery.
Expanding Her Expertise in Australia
It wasn’t until Gabby moved to Australia to pursue a master’s degree in health science, specializing in exercise and health, that her knowledge of nutrition deepened. Australia not only provided her with a rich academic experience but also introduced her to a vibrant triathlon community. Surrounded by endurance athletes, Gabby’s participation in triathlons expanded from local races to half-Ironman events. She embraced the longer distances and found joy in the process of training and fueling her body correctly.
Founding IntensEatFit
Gabby’s unique background—combining her personal athletic experience with advanced knowledge in nutrition—shaped her approach to working with clients. Her business, IntensEatFit, grew out of her desire to help athletes, particularly endurance athletes, understand the importance of proper nutrition for both performance and long-term health. Whether it’s a triathlete training for an Ironman or an ultra-runner preparing for a grueling race, Gabby’s philosophy is clear: nutrition is not just about hitting a weight goal, but about fueling for performance.
Common Mistakes in Endurance Nutrition
One of the most common mistakes Gabby sees in her clients is the fear of over-fueling. Many endurance athletes, especially those new to the sport, worry that consuming too many carbohydrates or sugars during training will lead to weight gain or diminished performance. Gabby emphasizes that the opposite is true: athletes need fuel to sustain their training intensity and recover effectively. Under-fueling can lead to fatigue, injury, and poor performance.
A Personalized Approach to Nutrition
Gabby’s approach is rooted in practicality and understanding the nuances of individual needs. She works closely with her clients to develop personalized nutrition plans that account for the demands of their training. Whether it’s experimenting with energy gels or adjusting macronutrient intake during different phases of training, she ensures that her athletes are prepared to meet the challenges of their sport.
Redefining Success: Nutrition Beyond the Scale
As a sports nutritionist, Gabby encourages her clients to recognize that performance is more than just physical. It's about mental resilience, proper fueling, and understanding your body’s unique needs. Triathletes and endurance athletes are often hyper-focused on their training routines, but Gabby’s message is simple: give as much attention to your nutrition as you do to your workouts.
Final Thoughts
Gabby’s journey from her early days in Mexico to becoming a highly regarded sports nutritionist in Australia is a testament to the power of passion and persistence. Through her work, she continues to inspire and guide athletes to unlock their full potential, both on and off the racecourse.
For more information on Gabby Villa and her services, visit IntensEatFit, or follow her on Instagram and Facebook at @intenseeatfit.
