From First Show To Champion: Khai Wern’s Bikini Bodybuilding Journey

When chiropractor and Le Coach member Khai Wern entered her first bodybuilding competition, she had no expectations, just the desire to challenge herself. But by the end of her debut season, she’d been crowned overall champion in UKDFBA Open Women’s Bikini and placed 2nd in the NPC Pro Qualifier Bikini division.

We sat down with Khai to talk about her bodybuilding journey, the mindset required for bikini bodybuilding prep, and how her professional background in chiropractic care gave her a unique edge on stage.

How to Get Into Bikini Bodybuilding 

Khai’s journey into bikini bodybuilding wasn’t part of a grand plan. But once she committed, she went all in. Her first season is a powerful example of what’s possible for women in sport when focus, consistency and the right training environment come together. 

“I actually got into bikini bodybuilding kind of by convenience. I just wanted to try something new and pick up a new skill. It did come quite naturally at first, but it still took a lot of hard work. And then people started suggesting I should compete, so I looked into it and decided, yeah, okay, actually, why not? Let’s give it a shot.”

Demands of Bikini Bodybuilding Prep

Female bodybuilding isn’t just about the intensity of training hard, it’s also about the intention - which is as mental as it is physical. 

“I treated it like an all-or-nothing goal and gave it everything I had physically. But I also had to stay self aware, compartmentalising and balancing my identity as both a bodybuilder and a human being. That awareness mindset helped me get from point A to B without losing myself.”

Khai’s approach highlights how important it is to stay grounded throughout bikini bodybuilding prep. Because the physical challenge is only part of it, the mental discipline and staying connected to your “why” is just as important. 

Training Environment Matters

For female bodybuilder, Khai Wern, having the right space to train in made showing up and levelling up feel second nature.

“Le Coach is a very specialised gym with an immersive environment that’s focused towards serious athletes with big goals. When you’re around like minded individuals in a space like that, high level training becomes the norm, not the exception and progress feels frictionless.”

Le Coach Fitness is proud to be a space where women in bodybuilding feel surrounded by others who just get it. Whether it’s your first bodybuilding competition or you're chasing your next title, it’s the kit, the community and the culture that makes us one of the best bodybuilding gyms in the UK.

Chiropractic Care in Bodybuilding

Khai’s unique perspective shows why chiropractic benefits for athletes are becoming harder to ignore:

“I don’t handle my own prep, or training or recovery. Honestly, I completely hand over the ropes to my coach and just get it done. But as a chiropractor, I do practice what I preach and have treatments. Not because I’m in pain, but for prevention and performance.”

“Bodybuilding is an intense sport, pushing ourselves is what we do. But chiropractic care helps you recognise the difference between normal fatigue, dysregulation and potential injury. It’s about knowing when to go harder and when to pull back.”

Keeping the nervous system firing at its best during intense training periods is essential. That’s why elite bodybuilders like Arnold Schwarzenegger, Phil Heath and Lauralie Chapados, have all turned to chiropractic care to stay on top of their game.

Clearing Up Misconceptions in the Bikini Division

Bikini bodybuilding is often misunderstood and Khai isn’t afraid to call it out.

“Because the sport has traditionally valued size and conditioning, some people see the bikini category as just focused on aesthetic appeal and femininity, rather than muscle development. But that’s just not true.”

“It creates a bias that undermines the hard work and commitment required. When in reality bikini bodybuilding is still bodybuilding and the category demands precision, symmetry and a specific kind of discipline. It’s more than looking good and glamorous. It’s about crafting a well balanced, proportionate physique, which is not easy.”

“So no downplaying please! More muscle doesn’t mean a division is more legit - we train just as hard.”

What’s Next for This UKDFBA Bikini Champion?

After a whirlwind first season, Khai’s keeping things simple:

“Honestly as a first timer I had no expectations going in. So coming away with everything that I have, I’m very, very happy. But even if I didn’t win anything, I would still be equally happy. Now I know where I stack up so I know that I will continue to do well as I make further improvements.”

“I don’t know what’s next for me, I’m focusing on recovery for now. And in terms of competing again, I’ll revisit that when the time feels right.” 

Khai’s approach to bikini bodybuilding is grounded, holistic, and refreshingly honest. It’s a reminder that long-term success in this sport comes from knowing when to push and when to rest.

Inspired by Khai’s Female Bodybuilding Journey?

Whether you’re starting prep for your first bodybuilding competition, navigating your own women’s physique transformation, or just want to train in a space that takes your goals seriously - Le Coach is the gym in Cambridge you’ve been looking for.

With elite equipment, a focused atmosphere, and a community that raises the standard, it’s where real progress happens.

Grab your discounted day pass here and come check it out for yourself.