Using Exercise to Overcome Anxiety and Bullies

When Mariana Sfakianakis uploads a 'transformation' photo of herself to social media it has nothing to do with gaining or losing weight.

Instead, the 25-year-old from Sydney is showing a little girl who grew up in and out of hospitals, holding crutches and relying on wheelchairs who has blossomed into a strong and fiercely independent woman.

'My transformation wasn't about losing weight, gaining weight, preparing for a bodybuilding competition.'

Mariana, who was diagnosed with cerebral palsy at birth, is set to appear on stage at an amateur bodybuilding competition in less than two months time, which for a girl who endured physical torments from bullies over her physical appearance is a dream she has had for a long time.

'Exercise helps me with cerebral palsy more so mentally than physically. It has gotten me through some pretty rough days as I use the gym and exercise as my getaway and happy place,'

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Woman, 25, with cerebral palsy who was bullied for being in a wheelchair is now preparing for a bodybuilding competition