Fernando Gabrera, known for his inspiring transformation and raw honesty, stunned many when he revealed that he had lost 70 kilograms (over 150 pounds) between 2015 and 2018. His success story wasn’t rooted in surgery, shortcuts, or extreme deprivation. Instead, it was powered by discipline, a radical shift in nutrition, and intense physical training.
Fernando committed to the ketogenic diet, a high-fat, low-carbohydrate eating plan that rewires the body’s metabolism, and paired it with CrossFit, one of the most demanding and dynamic fitness disciplines available. His journey is not just about physical change it’s a powerful testament to the potential of consistency, mindset, and structured lifestyle choices.
Why Fernando Gabrera Chose to Change
Before 2015, Fernando’s life was marked by poor eating habits, low energy, and emotional strain. Carrying excess weight didn’t just affect his health, it affected his confidence, productivity, and relationships. Like many who have struggled with obesity, he felt stuck in a cycle of fad diets, self-doubt, and short-term solutions.
But something shifted. He realized that long-term change wouldn’t come from temporary motivation; it had to be built on a sustainable strategy. That realization led him to adopt the ketogenic diet and dive headfirst into CrossFit. Both required mental discipline and physical commitment, but together, they created the conditions for radical transformation.
The Ketogenic Diet
The ketogenic diet flips the standard dietary model on its head. Instead of relying on carbohydrates for energy, keto shifts the body into ketosis, a metabolic state in which fat becomes the primary fuel source.
Fernando’s keto plan likely included:
- 70–75% fat: from avocados, coconut oil, nuts, seeds, olive oil, and fatty fish
- 20–25% protein: moderate amounts from meat, eggs, poultry, and dairy
- 5–10% carbohydrates: mostly from leafy greens and non-starchy vegetables
This drastic reduction in carbs forced his body to burn stored fat for fuel, a process that not only accelerated weight loss but also stabilized his energy and appetite. Within weeks, he reported feeling mentally sharper, physically lighter, and more in control of cravings.
Importantly, Fernando didn’t treat keto as a short-term hack. He turned it into a lifestyle, learning how to prepare meals, count macros, and maintain metabolic flexibility even during social events and stressful periods.
High-Intensity Training That Rebuilt His Body
While keto transformed Fernando’s metabolism, CrossFit reshaped his body. This strength-based, high-intensity training style combines Olympic lifting, bodyweight movements, gymnastics, and endurance work in constantly varied routines.
When Fernando first began, even the warmups were a challenge. But he stuck with it scaling workouts to his fitness level, tracking his progress, and showing up even when it felt impossible.
Within months, he was completing:
- Deadlifts and kettlebell swings
- Burpees, box jumps, and rope climbs
- Sled pushes and wall balls
- Long AMRAP (as many rounds as possible) and EMOM (every minute on the minute) sessions
CrossFit built lean muscle, improved his aerobic capacity, and gave him a powerful sense of belonging within a community of individuals chasing personal excellence. The camaraderie of the box (CrossFit gym) helped him stay accountable and inspired.
Over time, the scale dropped but what mattered more was that Fernando’s posture, strength, and stamina soared.
The Mental Battle
Fernando often said, “Motivation is what gets you started, but discipline is what keeps you going.” That mantra became the core of his approach. There were days when progress slowed, cravings returned, or exhaustion set in but he stayed the course.
To strengthen his mindset, he:
- Tracked his daily food intake and workouts
- Practiced mindful eating, focusing on hunger cues
- Avoided “cheat days,” opting instead for “controlled indulgences”
- Set weekly performance goals, not just scale goals
- Prioritized quality sleep and hydration as part of his training recovery
Weight loss, for Fernando, was never the ultimate goal. Sustainable health, physical capability, and confidence were the real prizes and they were worth every drop of sweat.
Transformation in Numbers and Spirit
By the end of 2018, Fernando had lost 70 kilograms. But numbers alone don’t tell the story. His journey resulted in:
- A massive drop in visceral fat, reducing his risk of heart disease and diabetes
- A dramatic increase in muscle mass and flexibility
- A restored sense of purpose and resilience
- The ability to inspire others going through similar struggles
Photos of his transformation showed not just a smaller body but a brighter, more present, and more powerful man.
His journey is a reminder that health isn’t something you stumble upon, it’s something you fight for, build day by day, and protect with intention.
What We Can Learn from Fernando Gabrera
Fernando Gabrera’s transformation was not magic, it was metabolic science plus mental toughness. His story provides a clear roadmap for anyone seeking real, lasting weight loss:
- Keto works best when personalized: Not everyone thrives on keto, but when it’s done correctly and monitored, it can dramatically improve fat loss and energy levels.
- CrossFit builds more than muscle: It teaches perseverance, self-discipline, and humility.
- Progress requires patience: Fernando’s transformation took three years, not three months.
- Mindset matters most: Without discipline, even the best diet or workout plan will collapse.
- Consistency beats intensity: Show up every day, even if it’s not perfect.
Thinking About Starting Your Own Transformation?
If you’re inspired by Fernando’s story and ready to take control of your health, you don’t need to start with perfection, you just need a clear plan, structured guidance, and inner resolve.
At Erdem Hospital, we help international patients navigate major weight loss transformations through personalized programs that combine nutritional strategy (including keto if desired), fitness planning, and medical oversight. Whether you’re just beginning or restarting your health journey, we’re here to support your progress every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much weight did Fernando Gabrera lose?
Fernando lost approximately 70 kilograms (over 150 pounds) between 2015 and 2018.
What diet did he follow?
He followed a strict ketogenic diet, focusing on high fat, moderate protein, and very low carbohydrates.
What kind of workouts did he do?
Fernando trained regularly with CrossFit, a high-intensity workout regimen that includes weightlifting, cardio, and functional movement.
Was his transformation fast?
No. His journey took about three years, showing that slow and consistent change can lead to dramatic, sustainable results.
Did he have surgery or use supplements?
There’s no public indication of surgery. He achieved his results through lifestyle change alone, though he likely used basic fitness supplements like electrolytes or protein shakes within his plan.
Is keto safe for everyone?
Not necessarily. While keto can be effective, it should be done under medical supervision, especially for individuals with underlying conditions.
Can I start a keto and CrossFit program safely?
Yes, but it’s best to consult professionals. Erdem Hospital offers international wellness programs, including keto-based nutrition, performance coaching, and medical evaluations to tailor your plan safe.