If you haven’t heard of Audi Crooks yet, you’re missing out. This Iowa State women’s basketball star has been turning heads both on and off the court, not just for her basketball skills, but for her incredible physical transformation. In just under a year, Audi Crooks has dropped 45 pounds, going from 250 to 205 pounds, and the change has been nothing short of remarkable. But this is not just a story about weight loss—it’s about a young woman taking control of her health, confidence, and future.
You might think, “Okay, she lost weight. Big deal.” But when you hear about Audi’s journey, the struggles, the trolls, and the inner strength she had to find to make this happen, it becomes a whole new kind of inspiration.
A Tough Beginning: Struggling with Weight and Self-Doubt
Audi’s weight journey didn’t start out as a choice. Like so many athletes, she found herself facing a struggle that wasn’t about performance on the court but her body. Standing at 6’3”, Audi’s size made her stand out, but it also brought with it challenges. The constant pressure of her height, weight, and the expectations placed on her didn’t always feel like the supportive environment she hoped for.
“I used to think that I could just play basketball and my body would take care of itself,” Audi says. “But when I wasn’t feeling my best off the court, it started to affect my game. I knew something had to change.”
But it wasn’t just about improving her athletic performance. Audi was also grappling with negativity and body-shaming from social media. Trolls mocked her weight, particularly during a breakout month in the NCAA Tournament. These comments stung, and they fueled Audi’s determination even more.
“People don’t realize how hard it is to deal with constant criticism,” she admits. “I wasn’t just fighting physical battles; I was fighting mental ones. It was exhausting, but I wasn’t going to let it define me.”
The Turning Point: From Struggles to Dedication
Audi didn’t just listen to the negative chatter. She used it to fuel her transformation. “One day, I just said to myself, ‘Enough. I want to feel better. I want to be healthy, not just for basketball, but for me.’”
So began Audi’s commitment to change—not a drastic crash diet or shortcut, but a healthy and sustainable lifestyle shift. Her weight loss wasn’t an overnight success. It was months of hard work, discipline, and finding the right balance between exercise and nutrition.
Diet and Exercise: Finding the Right Balance
One of the key components of Audi’s transformation was her approach to food. Rather than focusing on extreme restrictions or fad diets, Audi made healthier choices. She embraced lean proteins like chicken, fish, tofu, and beans, which helped her build muscle and maintain energy levels for her demanding workouts.
“I had to learn how to eat smarter, not just eat less,” Audi says. “It wasn’t about starving myself, it was about fueling my body with the right stuff.”
Exercise, too, played a huge role in her weight loss. Audi made sure to hit the gym regularly, combining strength training, cardio, and agility drills. “I lift. I run. I get shots up,” she says with a grin. “I knew I had to work harder than ever. Not just for basketball, but for my health, too.”
The Emotional Side of Weight Loss: Struggles and Triumphs
Audi’s weight loss journey wasn’t just physical—it was emotional, too. There were days when she doubted herself, when the progress seemed too slow, and when the weight on her shoulders felt heavier than her physical weight. But every pound lost was a victory, every moment of self-doubt was a challenge to overcome.
“I remember getting on the scale and seeing that 45-pound loss,” Audi recalls, her voice filled with emotion. “I almost couldn’t believe it. It wasn’t just about the number, it was about the confidence I had regained. I felt like I could do anything.”
She credits her mental toughness to the support of her family, teammates, and coaches, who never stopped believing in her. “When you’re surrounded by people who lift you up, it’s easier to push through the tough days,” she says.
The Transformation: From the Court to the Spotlight
By the end of 2024, Audi’s transformation was undeniable. She had shed 45 pounds, but the changes in her body weren’t just physical. Audi felt healthier, more agile, and more confident in her own skin.
“My game has improved so much,” she says proudly. “I’m quicker, stronger, and I can perform at a higher level. It’s like everything is connected now—my mind, my body, and my game.”
But beyond the athletic improvement, Audi’s newfound sense of self-worth is what truly shines. She’s no longer just a player on the court—she’s a role model, an example of resilience, and a reminder that taking care of your body goes beyond the physical.
How Audi Crooks’ Journey Can Inspire You
While Audi’s story is extraordinary, it’s also relatable. So many of us struggle with weight, self-image, and the mental toll it takes. But Audi shows that with dedication, the right support, and a commitment to health over quick fixes, anyone can make a change.
If there’s one thing Audi’s weight loss journey teaches us, it’s that the road to transformation is long but worth it. There’s no magic formula—just hard work, persistence, and a willingness to believe in yourself even when it feels like the world is telling you otherwise.
FAQs About Audi Crooks’ Weight Loss Journey
1. What was Audi Crooks’ starting weight?
Audi Crooks started at 250 pounds before beginning her weight loss journey. By the end of 2024, she had lost 45 pounds, reaching 205 pounds.
2. How did Audi Crooks lose 45 pounds?
Audi focused on a balanced diet, which included lean proteins and healthy carbs, while maintaining a regular workout routine that combined strength training, cardio, and basketball drills.
3. Did Audi Crooks face any challenges during her weight loss journey?
Yes, Audi faced emotional and mental struggles, including body-shaming and doubts about her ability to lose weight. However, she turned these obstacles into motivation, ultimately finding success.
4. What kind of diet did Audi follow to lose weight?
Audi followed a diet that included lean proteins like chicken, fish, and tofu, while focusing on whole foods that supported muscle growth and energy levels for her workouts.
5. How has Audi’s weight loss affected her basketball performance?
Audi’s weight loss has improved her agility, strength, and overall game performance, allowing her to compete at a higher level on the court.
6. What advice does Audi Crooks have for others trying to lose weight?
Audi emphasizes the importance of consistency, balance, and mental resilience. She advises focusing on long-term health rather than quick fixes.
7. Was Audi’s weight loss journey quick?
No, Audi’s journey took several months of hard work and commitment. She lost 45 pounds gradually, ensuring that her weight loss was both healthy and sustainable.
8. How did Audi Crooks’ family and teammates support her during her transformation?
Audi credits much of her success to the unwavering support of her family and teammates, who encouraged her to stay motivated and focused on her goals.
Audi Crooks’ story isn’t just about weight loss—it’s about perseverance, growth, and becoming the best version of yourself. Whether you’re an athlete or just someone trying to live a healthier life, Audi’s journey proves that anything is possible when you believe in yourself and commit to the process.