Promoting Real Women

Angela Coleman Interview

2012-02-04T11:34:00.000-08:00

Q: First, Angela, I want to thank you for taking the time to do this.
A: My pleasure, thank you for featuring me!!

Q: Can you start out by telling a little about yourself.
A: I am a 26 year old Licensed Massage Therapist / ACSM Personal Trainer at the Fitness Edge STL and sponsored NPC National Figure athlete. I married in June, 2009 and currently live in St. Louis, MO. I have 2 sisters, one older sister and an identical twin sister!

Q: Before the gym were you an especially athletic person? Play any sports?
A: As a kid, I loved PE. In 6th grade I set a record for 18 consecutive pullups, I ran track too! The 100m dash was my favorite race :) In my 1st ever track meet, I took first place in that event! The feeling was indescribable! In High School I was involved in cheerleading for 3 years and made Captain my Senior year.

Q: What initially led you into the gym?
A: I was in really good shape with cheerleading and liked the way I looked, so once I graduated High School I joined Gold's Gym down the street from my house. I have been a member ever since then!

Q: Was training something you picked up fairly easy? How long before you started to see results?
A: My training from then to know has dramatically changed! LOL, I would go to the gym mainly to do cardio and people watch :) By doing so, I picked up certain exercises I grew comfortable with doing, but I never switched things up!! I went to the gym very regularly, so I got results, but I would have had better results if I did a few things differently.

Q: What made you decide to compete for the first time?
A: As a regular gym member, I was frequently told by trainers and other members that "You look like you could do fitness competitions" I had no idea what they meant at the time.. Then I started to get curious, about these "shows" and a fellow trainer at my gym dropped the name of a Coach / Nutritionist in Chesterfield, MO. I contacted him in October, 2009 and have been working with him ever since. I had great success with the diet and training for my 1st show. I took 1st place Figure Short and the Figure Overall title (won my WNBF Pro Card) at the 2010 INBF Missouri All Naturals. I was hooked!

Q: Is competing something your family and friends supported?
A: Competition prep is tough... My family doesn't fully understand why you can and can't eat certain foods or go out alot, but they are trying. My twin sister Leah and husband Justin do understand what the process is all about and are 110% supportive of me and my goals.

Q: Was competing what you expected or did anything surprise you about it?
A: Having competed now for almost 2 years has made me realize how important genetics are most of the time. Some one can have GREAT structure (broad shoulders, tiny waist and nice quad sweeps) but lack muscular development. Or someone could have great, full, symmetrical muscle but lack (the broad shoulders and and small waist or have narrow hips) It boils down to who has it ALL structurally and esthetically. Everyone has different goals with competition. Some do it for themselves and for their lifestyles and others do it to prove they can compete with the best.

Q: Can you share your contest history.
A:
*2010 INBF Missouri All Naturals- 1st place Figure short, Figure Overall (earned WNBF Pro Card)
*2010 NPC Midwest Novice Classic- 1st place Figure short, Figure Overall
*2011 NPC Muscle Mayhem Championships- 1st place Figure Class A, Overall Runner up
*2011 NPC Jr. Nationals Championships- 8th place out of 19 in Figure Class A
*2011 IFBB North American Championships- 2nd place Figure Class A

Q: As far as body parts, what do you feel is your best one?
A: My shoulders. Even in high school pictures I had developed traps and delts. I can thank my dad for the gifted upper body!

Q: Do you have a part you most like to train?
A: I LOVE to train Hamstrings! They have been my weak point and I am determined to bring them up with the rest of my muscles groups!

Q: What is your normal training routine and diet like and how do you alter it for contest prep?
A: I actually stay pretty structured in my offseason with the diet and training schedule. Obviously, I incorporate more carbs which is essential to grow lean muscle and improve my physique at each show. Training for a show, I will increase repetitions and decrease load slightly depending on the day :)

Q: When someone sees your physique or hears you compete for the first time, what is the most common reaction? More positive or negative?
A: Definitely all positive! The most common compliment I get on my physique is about my shoulders and back.

Q: When they see it that first time, what is the one question or comment you are most sick of hearing?
A: "Why do you starve yourself to look like that?" I always respond to those comments by mentioning: "I eat 6 times a day, how many times do you eat in a day??

Q: What is the biggest misconception about women who train and compete or the one thing you wish people understood?
A: That if you aren't competing in a "Natural" Federation you are not likely a "Natural" athlete. I switched from the WNBF and "Natural" Federation to the NPC, a Non-Tested Federation to get more exposure and opportunities. I have had great success in making this switch, and everyone has their right to choose federations best suited for them as an athlete!

Q: What is the best and worst part of training for you?
A: It would probably be cardio on an empty stomach... I do this at some point during all my contest preps and I can't stand thinking about breakfast the ENTIRE time I'm on the Stepmill!!

Q: Do you have any favorite competitors or any you admire?
A: Erin Stern, the former IFBB Ms. Figure Olympia. She embodies beauty, grace, femininity, athleticism and strength. She has a great sense of humor and personality as well. The total package in my opinion in the sport of Figure.

Q: Do you have a favorite cheat food?
A: Depends on my mood but it would be pizza or loaded ice cream!

Q: If another woman told you she wanted to start training, what is the one piece of advice you would most want to give her?
A: Have patience and be open to honest criticisms on her physique. Figure can be a very subjective sport.

Q: Do you think its becoming more common for women to use the weights as opposed to just doing cardio?
A: There are so many benefits to lifting weights that some females tend to overlook.. Like the fact weight bearing movements overtime can increase bone density and increase you calorie burning at rest after the workout. Cardio is good for your heart and mind but together with weights and a good diet you will transform your physique! Create a balance!

Q: Outside of training, any other hobbies or activities you enjoy?
A: I love to try new restaurants, and love to watch football! On occasion I like to go shoot guns with my husband Justin!

Q: Can you describe a typical day in the life of Angela Coleman.
A: Wake up around 7am, eat, train / massage clients, cardio, train / massage clients. Train myself :) eat, train / massage my last client, go home, eat dinner, prep food for the next day, create workouts for clients, spend quality time with my husband and animals, eat, shower, then head to bed!!! All to do it again the next day!!!

Q: Describe Angela Coleman in five words.
A: Humble, Ambitious, Honest, Courageous, Loyal

Q: What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
A: I buy boys athletic shoes, lol! I don't like loud bright colors on women's athletic shoes!

Q: Any set plans for the near future as far as competing or anything else?
A: I plan on competing at the 2012 NPC Jr. USA's in May. My goal again this year is to earn my IFBB Figure Pro Card, I came in 2nd at the 2011 IFBB North American Championships and I would like to move up that 1 spot and win my class!! In the long term, I hope to start a family in a few years :)

Q: Anything you want to take this opportunity to plug or promote?
A: I would like to thank my husband Justin Coleman, twin sister Leah Dattilo and my family for their unconditional support. My Coach/ Nutritionist Kit Kitson and all the athletes of In Shape Nutrition. My two amazing Sponsors, 1st Phorm International and Tamee Marie Suits for putting their faith in me as a person and athlete to represent their companies. Lastly my amazing workout partners Julie Hamilton and Nicole Dudas, together we make up some INSANE training sessions and push one another to the max!

Q: Are you looking for sponsors? If so, how can they reach you?
A: I am currently sponsored by 1st Phorm International and Tamee Marie Suits. I can be reached at angelarcoleman81@gmail.com for any inquiries.

Q: Angela, again, I thank you for taking the time to do this. Any last words before you go?
A: Thank you for giving me the opportunity to do this interview with you!

Spotlight Interview: Zoila Gurgel

2012-02-02T16:27:00.001-08:00

After a loss to Miesha Tate, which Zoila Gurgel says was the best thing to happen to her, Zoila went on a streak of impressive wins over impressive fighters including Megumi Fuji and Jessica Aguilar that culminated in her winning the prestigious Bellator Tournament in 2010. After one fight in early 2011, Zoila has been out of action with a torn ACL. With rehab going well hopefully we will see her back in the cage in the not to distant future.

Q: Can you start out just talking about how you got started in the sport?
A: Oh wow. It wasn't that long ago. I was playing soccer in college. I got hurt a little and when I came back it wasn't anything competitive enough for me. I was playing little pick up games here and there. I was getting way to aggressive, getting way to many red cards. Slide tackling girls, shoving them all over the place, its just wasn't enough for me anymore. So I found boxing from there and went to a gym in Fresno that was more of a Muay Thai base, and went straight to MMA from there.

Q: Your only loss is to Miesha Tate, is that something in the future you would like to try and avenge?
A: Oh definitely. Ever since I lost it has been a fight I wanted, to take her on again, at 135 or 125, she has said she would drop down to 125 when she was going back and forth with Tara LaRosa. I've actually become pretty good friends with her and she's a really nice girl and I respect everything she has done in the sport.... and for beating me the way she did. It taught me a lot and got me where I am today. But to be able to challenge her again would be an amazing opportunity.

Q: You have been your best since that fight, is it safe to say that in a way, that loss was good for you?
A: That loss was the best thing that could have happened to me in my career. It taught me that I wasn't invincible. Up to that point it was all Muay Thai. I was so much of an athlete I figured I didn't need to work on wrestling cause I didn't think anyone could keep me down. But I fought a bigger opponent and Wrestling and Jiu-Jitsu was her strong point. On the ground with her I was a fish out of water, I had no idea what was going on or what I was doing. It wasn't that I felt she was stronger than me, it was more, I had no idea where I was going or what I was doing. It was a loss from the beginning but I learned a lot. After that happened I went straight to Fresno City College and they let me work in with the guys and I got my ass beat on numerous occasions and fell in love with wrestling. Then I fought Michelle Ould and beat her and then I met my husband and got together with him. I got a call from Bellator to fight Rosi Sexton, so I was working on wrestling her, an then the tournament, it it went on from there.

Q: You mention Bellator, in 2010 you won their tournament beating some legit girls, Jessica Aguilar, Megumi Fuji, safe to say that's your career highlight till now?
A: Oh yeah, by far. Up till that point, Miesha was my first test, all the girls I have fought have been more experienced than I was. Every fight was with someone way more experienced, even the Penne fight, the Rosi Sexton, I was supposed to get slaughtered by her. She had so much more experience. But I worked hard to get to where I was and beating her showed I wasn't a push over. Penne was 7-0 and more experienced, same with Aguilar. Same with Megumi, I wasn't supposed to get out of the first round, let alone five rounds and winning. To be able to get in the cage with them and beat them was very rewarding.

Q: Going into that tournament, I think most people expected Megumi to win. Did you feel you had something to prove?
A: It wasn't just something to prove. I knew everyone except a handful of people knew I was gonna lose that fight. I had people who were family or close friends who said "how do you expect to beat her?" I didn't take it as an insult, its who she was, she made a name for herself in this sport. I had nothing to lose. If I had one thing it was strength, everyone knew I wasn't going to the ground with her, its something you don't do. So I figured my only chance was knock her out or stay on my feet. In my eyes it was like taking the belt from her cause there was no one who could stay in a fight with her. So I felt my chances were to use my strength, physical ability and keep it standing.

Q: Your last fight was in March, a decision win over Karina Hallinan. Is it hard to train for someone you already fought?
A: It's not really hard at all. I go in to each fight the same way. I don't think about who I am gonna fight, I let my coaches do that. I go in with the same mentality, super confident and not picturing anyone else beating me. To fight her again was like a new fight for me. She was a completely different fighter. I am sure I will fight Aguilar and Megumi again and they will be different fighters and so will I. I am evolving and you can't look at fighters the same.

Q: Your sister Stephanie just lost a super close decision, but showed a lot of improvement. How good can she be?
A: Stephanie is an amazing athlete. She is a lot better at thinking about the whole thing. She likes to work on details, especially in Jiu-Jitsu. She has improved so much in a little time.

Q: Your cornered her in that fight. Is it hard to corner someone who is family?
A: It definitely is. She is actually the only person I ever cornered. Her first few fights I could barely control myself. There was no coaching involved, just shouting out things here and there. The first few fights I was so overtaken by emotion that I couldn't coach her. So this time around was easier because Jorge is her main coach and I am there for support. I am there for her and it helps more than shouting things out.

Q: You fight, your husband fights, your sister fights. Do you get more nervous for your fights or theirs?
A: Definitely them. Stephanie would be the one I am most nervous for, then Jorge, and I come third. I am a little nervous but it's always game for me, always confident and feel I prepared myself enough to go out there. So I am never nervous for my fights, just super confident.

Q: You moved out here to Ohio. Except for the fact the weather sucks, as a fighter, how has moving here and working with Jorge helped you?
A: It has helped tremendously. Where I came from was strictly Muay Thai. Besides the weather, everything is amazing. The people here are completely different as well. Everyone is so helpful and welcoming. Its so much nicer, you can completely tell the difference, everything is completely different. It was the best move I ever made besides getting married to Jorge. The people I work with are amazing and help out and don't ask for things in return. In California it was all about money. Here its about love for the sport. It made me want to be better and make everyone proud. It gives me a family to fight for, and it makes it really hard to lose.

Q: With what happened with Cyborg, does that in your opinion hurt women's MMA at all?
A: In my opinion, I think in some ways it does and some ways it doesn't. I was a huge fan of hers. A lot of people saw it as like watching a man fight, completely different. It's hard to answer. It kind of helps cause it gives other fighters a chance to showcase skills without performance enhancing drugs.

Q: Right now everyone is talking about Miesha Tate vs Ronda Rousey. Some people like Ronda and some don't. Would you agree that at least she is getting people talking about a female fight, and that aspect is a good thing?
A: I agree with you one hundred percent. She is saying things that I can see why people get offended, I'm not offended, she isn't talking about me personally. She is getting a lot of press, getting it for her and Miesha. It is a big fight. As long as she brings attention to women's MMA in a good way, I'm all for it. Its a fight I am looking forward to. She brings excitement to it, and so does Tate. I think it's good for women's MMA.

Q: Do you have a prediction on how the fight goes
A: Oh man, I would like to see Tate win because of where she is and who she is, and cause I fought her as well. But its hard to tell. We haven't seen much of Ronda's fighting. So it's hard to call. She is an Olympic athlete, fought girls who are bigger than her, and she's taken them the way she wanted to and beaten them how she wanted to. it's hard to call, but I am looking forward to it.

Q: Most people know you have been out with an injury, can you explain what the injury is?
A: I tore my ACL in wrestling practice. It was something so small, I couldn't believe it happened. I took a shot and stopped in the middle and my knee popped and I knew something was wrong. I got an MRI and the doctor said "your ACL is completely torn, you need surgery". So I got surgery November 8th and am rehabbing and recovering.

Q: Do you have any time table when you could fight?
A: I am hoping, a lot of people were saying nine months from when it happened, I would like it sooner, like five months from now. The goal is to fight before the year is over, or if Bellator has that tournament, I would love to jump in that or get a fight before it. I want to fight at least once before the year is over, if not twice.

Q: Before we finish, anyone you want to thank or mention?
A: Everyone. Jorge Gurgel, my mom Zoyla Grace and family, JGMMA team, coaches Stutzman, Mike Ferguson, my sister Stephanie Frausto, my nutritionist Eric Trilliegi, my supporters and fans throughout my career and through my surgery and rehab, team manager Jeremiah Gabbard, amazing friend and sponsor through surgery Billy Ayashi, and Tussle. And you Jason Adams for the interview and supporting women's MMA and helping us get more recognition, people like you give us more to fight for.

Lisa White Interview

2012-01-24T15:24:00.000-08:00

Q: First, Lisa, I want to thank you for taking the time to do this.
A: Thank you for the opportunity. It’s my pleasure.

Q: Can you start out by telling a little about yourself.
A: I came to the U.S. from Korea when I was a baby. My dad was in the Army, and I was raised with my brother Chris. I also have another brother and two sisters from my biological father, whom I met when I was 26. All of us kids are of mixed ethnicities, and look like a mini United Nations. I’m married and I have two fabulous gingers, too. My daughter Jaden is six and my son Marcus a.k.a. Chunk is four. My family keeps me on my toes.

Q: Before the gym were you an especially athletic person? Play any sports or anything?
A: Yes, I was. When I was younger my parents were very supportive of sports participation. I’ve participated in everything from ballet to bowling. My parents were adamant that my brother and I finish any sport we started, but if we didn’t like it we didn’t have to continue it the next season.

Q: What initially led you into the gym?
A: I ate my way through college on Papa John’s Pizza and midnight grilling parties, but I wasn’t heavy. It wasn’t until after I graduated from Georgia Southern University that the weight began to “stick.”
I gained weight in my midsection, and wore a size 10 to 12 at 135 lb. I was working with little down time, and was sick of having a donut around my waist. I jumped in head-first and bought a two year membership at Cosmos Fitness.

Q: Was training something you picked up fairly easy? How long before you started to see results?
A: Yes, the training came easy, but I was also determined to make changes. I weight lifted four days a week and in six months gained five pounds. My weight was 140 lb. but my pant size was a four or six. My body composition was changing steadily.

Q: What made you decide to compete for the first time?
A: I trained to compete ten years ago, and backed out one week before the bodybuilding show. I had severe stage fright. Again, in 2007, I decided to compete. I was two weeks into contest prep when I found out I was pregnant with my Chunk.
Finally, in 2009, I didn’t like the way I felt or looked. I was reverting. For years I spent my time running a business and raising kids while eating donuts and coffee well into the night. I was tired of being the mom that looked like the mom stereotype; haggard and fat. I decided to compete to give myself a goal.

Q: Is competing something your family and friends supported?
A: Most of my girlfriends are active, and a few compete so they are very supportive. My dad is supportive, and has seen me compete. On the other hand, my mom is not. My mom is old school Korean and thinks I look like “Skinny-bones-Jones” when I’m in contest prep. She likes everyone to be heavy.
My kids walk around flexing, and my husband is also supportive. Josh was a power lifting athlete while attending Elon University, and he understands the training, diet, and mental aspect of what it takes to compete. He evaluates all of my photos and gives advice; but only when I ask for it. He’s become very wise over the years.

Q: Was competing what you expected or did anything surprise you about it?
A: Absolutely not! It was nothing like I expected. The girls were very catty, and ambitious. I thought it would be more sportsmanlike, but it wasn’t. As for being on stage, it was as scary as I expected. The lights are so bright, and everything moves very fast. Of course, I had the terrible fear that one of the judges would call my number and say, “Your other left…”

Q: Can you share your contest history.
A: Sure. In my first show I placed sixth and I’ve placed first through fourth since.
*2011 NGA Mount Rogers, November 19, 3rd place open medium class
*2011 Charm City Classic, October 22, 3rd place masters class, 4th place open short class
*2010 OCB Midwest States, November 20, 1st place novice 2 Class, 2nd place masters 2 Class, 4th place open class
*2010 ABA Natural North American Championships, August 7, 3rd place short class,
*2009 Muscle Mania October, 10 , 6th place open class

Q: As far as body parts, what do you feel is your best one?
A: I would say my shoulders. My shoulders are naturally broad and square, but I am careful when posing. In certain poses my shoulders over power the rest of my body.

Q: Do you have a part you most like to train or favorite exercise?
A: Actually, I really love to workout regardless of competing. I’d have to say, in this order: back, shoulders and legs are the best. I have two favorite exercises. I love close grip lat pull downs without a seat. I sit with my knees on the floor and do the lat pulls from there.
My second favorite exercise is plate pushes on the basket ball court. I use a 45 lb. weight on a towel and push it across the court. Do enough of those and you’ll vomit.

Q: What is your normal training routine and diet like and how do you alter it for contest prep?
A: In or off-season I try to train at least five days a week. I do a basic split of back, chest, legs, shoulders and arms. I train seven days a week when in contest prep, and on the additional days I do short sessions of plyometric exercises and cardio. I have been known to take days off if my body needs it.
In the off-season I eat what I want. I don’t think twice about having chicken fingers and fries if that’s what I crave. I love to live life, and worrying about my caloric intake verses my caloric expenditure in the off season isn’t going to happen.

Q: When someone sees your physique or hears you compete for the first time, what is the most common reaction? More positive or negative?
A: Actually, both the positive and negative comments are about the same. When my husband and I owned a gym a woman came in for a personal trainer. Her goal was to get in shape, but she said, “I don’t want to look like you.” When I asked what was “wrong” with me she said I was too big.
Meanwhile, I was stopped by a woman the other week who said I looked fantastic. I told her I was a figure competitor, and it intrigued her. She asked me questions in the grocery store about the process.

Q: When they see it that first time, what is the one question or comment you are most sick of hearing?
A: For many athletes, the most avoided or annoying question is, “Are you on steroids?” For me, I get a lot of flak from friends and acquaintances because I don’t use enhancement drugs. I don’t care who uses gear, but I never thought that not using enhancement drugs would be disapproved of.

Q: What is the biggest misconception about women who train and compete or the one thing you wish people understood?
A: Hands down—Turning into She-hulk. It just doesn’t happen unless you have a great combination of genetics and the right “pharmacist.”

Q: What is the best and worst part of training for you?
A: I love to lift, but I hate, and I mean hate, cardio. I’m a weights kind of girl. Cardio sucks ass.

Q: Do you have any favorite competitors or any you admire?
A: Beni Lopez. Kris Murrell. Both women are power houses. Lopez and Murrell are crossing over to physique and I’m interested to see the changes. IFPA Pro Patricia Beckman has some of the best posing I’ve seen. She’s artistic and creative without posing like an “entertainer.”
Monica Brant of course. She’s one of my favorites for several reasons. She’s lasted a long time in a tough industry, and she’s an astute business woman. She wouldn’t have lasted otherwise.

Q: Do you have a favorite cheat food?
A: I’m such a foodie that there are days I wonder why I bother to compete. When in contest prep cheat foods are usually Nutella, BBQ or a cheeseburger.

Q: If another woman told you she wanted to start training, what is the one piece of advice you would most want to give her?
A: I tell her how much time it really takes to compete. Most people have no idea how much time it takes to prepare for a single bodybuilding show. They don’t realize every minute counts. Training, cardio, posing practice, tanning and food prep all take time. Add your life away from bodybuilding into the mix and time management is the top priority.

Q: Do you think it’s becoming more common for women to use the weights as opposed to just doing cardio and things?
A: No, I don’t. I wish it wasn’t the case, though. Women are still so fearful of bulking up, and looking like their husbands. It’s an old myth that keeps persevering.

Q: Outside of training, any other hobbies or activates you enjoy?
A: I love to hang out with my kids, read, play scrabble, cook, and travel, visit museums and go to plays or shows. I’ve seen the Lion King on Broadway. Miss Saigon in London. Phantom of the Opera in Hotlanta. Henry the V in Stratford-upon-Avon. O in Las Vegas.

Q: Can you describe a typical day in the life of Lisa White.
A: I’m very, very predictable. My alarm sounds at 3:3O a.m. I head to the laundry room, start a load of wash, and fold whatever remains. I heat water for coffee, and begin cooking breakfast. I eat breakfast, and check my emails and websites so I can start writing. If I’m in contest prep I do cardio after checking e-mails.
Then I’m off and running once the kids get up. I get them ready for school by 8:40 a.m., and head to the gym where I train for an hour. When I’m in contest prep it’s two hours. Then I’m back at the house to write articles between taking care of my Chunk, cleaning and cooking. I pick my daughter up from school, and then its dinner, baths, story time and bed by 8:00p.m.
Damn, that’s boring!

Q: Describe Lisa White in five words.
A: Confident. Harsh. Honest. Bold. Sensual.

Q: What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
A: I am a complete nerd, and a huge fan of reading. I don’t get to read as much as I like, but I used to read a book a day. I also have many other aspirations besides competing. I plan to go back to school to become a registered dietician, and I don’t care if I’m 60 when it happens.
People are very surprised to find that I don’t speak Korean. My mother wanted to me to be very “American” and never taught me.
When it comes to competing people are always surprised to learn that I loathe water, and anything on a competition diet. I don’t care how you dress it up; a sweet potato is just a gnarly root.

Q: Any set plans for the near future as far as competing or anything else?
A: The additional cardio and tight diet is very taxing during contest prep. I like to take six to eight months off between shows to recover and grow. As of yet, I plan to compete in October or November. I’m not sure which shows I’ll do though, since I was recommended to crossover to the NPC. I’ve been doing natural bodybuilding shows and have never done NPC.

Q: Anything you want to take this opportunity to plug or promote?
A: Thank you for the opportunity. People can find me at CPT Lisa M. White™ or CPT Lisa M. White™ Bodybuilding blog, or check out my column as a National Bodybuilding Examiner.
I am also the owner of Bodybuilding Event Tips. The site offers tips on things that occur during bodybuilding shows, information on products, or answers to questions that are commonly asked. Please don’t be shy and “Like” the Bodybuilding Event Tips Facebook page, also.

Q: Are you looking for sponsors? If so how can they reach you?
A: Yes, I am. Thank you for asking. Please contact me at cptlisamwhite@yahoo.com. My resume and photos are available upon request.
Future sponsors can also see that I’m a sponsored athlete of Vandella Costumes. 2012 will be my third year being sponsored. Thank you Vandella Costumes.

Q: Lisa, again, I thank you for taking the time to do this. Any last words before you go?
A: I’d like to say don’t get lost along the way, and forget to enjoy the journey. This is about having fun. Once again, thank you for the interview invitation.

Nichole Moran Cruz Interview

2012-01-24T15:00:00.000-08:00

Q: First, Nichole, I want to thank you for taking the time to do this.
A: Absolutely! I appreciate the opportunity to let people know a little bit about me.

Q: Can you start out by telling a little about yourself.
A: Sure. I’m a former athlete, basketball and collegiate track & field. I was married at 21, and had 3 children by the age of 24. My marriage was riddled with domestic violence and I began to lose my confidence and sense of self. In order to begin to rebuild myself physically, emotionally and spiritually, I began to reach back to my athletic roots and get back into the gym. The stronger I became on the outside, I began to gain strength on the inside. I eventually rediscovered myself and found the strength to leave the marriage. I have looked forward ever since and never looked back. My children are now 18, 17 and 15 and are 3 of my best achievements in life!

Q: Before the gym were you an especially athletic person? Play any sports or anything?
A: I’ve actually been an athlete from as long as I can remember. I played basketball in high school, however track was my passion. I began to develop craft, running on a track team in the summer, participating in the Junior Olympics in 1989. I also attended Colorado State University on a track scholarship. I truly believe sports keep you motivated. It teaches the value of hard work, perseverance and a healthy lifestyle.

Q: What initially led you into the gym?
A: The gym has been a constant throughout my lifetime. From high school, college, during all pregnancies and post pregnancy. My life could be chaotic and constantly changing, however they gym has kept me grounded in every point of my life. It’s become somewhat of a comfort blanket. I can be stressed and emotional, however once I step into the gym, put my hat on and earphones in, nothing else matters but me and the iron.

Q: Was training something you picked up fairly easy? How long before you started to see results?
A: Training for me started in high school. My basketball coach had training techniques that were advanced for the time: plyometrics, cardio conditioning, weight training, were all part of our weekly regimen. Because his training was so tough, I have always been prepared to work hard. Training as a Competitive Fitness Athlete is definitely not easy, however I am always eager to learn new techniques and always prepared to work hard.

Q: What made you decide to compete for the first time?
A: I was actually working as a Personal Trainer for a large gym when another trainer planted the seed to compete. I was also looking for a new challenge to push myself. Making the decision to actually train for it was the toughest part as it was uncharted territory for me. It was also a little scary thinking about getting on stage and being vulnerable enough to be judged by others. Being a competitive person, I eagerly accepted the challenge and the rest is history!

Q: Is competing something your family and friends supported?
A: Initially I was on my own. The sport of Competitive Fitness is very time consuming, demanding and a bit narcissistic. You have to take time away from family, friends and “normal” life to train. I am the athletic one in my family, therefore they really didn’t understand the “why.” They would see me tired, grumpy, carb deprived and somewhat disengaged. There was some negativity and I had to separate myself during my training. It wasn’t until my parents came to my first show and could actually see what the sport was about and the results of my efforts, that they were able to be on board with my chosen sport.

Q: Was competing what you expected or did anything surprise you about it?
A: I don’t think you can actually grasp what it’s like until you step on stage for the first time. It was more exhilarating and rewarding than I had anticipating. I was actually surprised that there were not many women of color competing. It was at that time that I developed a Facebook page: Figure Competitors of Color which is a group that supports and encourages the women of color in the sport of Competitive Fitness. I now have over 700 page members across the globe. I also developed CFAA – Competitive Fitness Athletes Association which is an organization that promotes and supports Competitive Fitness Athletes and the sport of Competitive Fitness.

Q: Can you share your contest history.
A: Absolutely: 2006 NPC Novice 5th place; 2009 NPC Novice 6th place; 2010 NPC Masters 5th place: 2010 Masters 3rd place. I’m particularly proud of myself for getting back on stage in 2010 after a major surgery in December of 2009 which had me out of commission for almost 12 weeks. I had another major surgery in April of 2011 and am equally as proud of my hard work for my national qualifying 3rd place in November of this year.

Q: As far as body parts, what do you feel is your best one?
A: My body is still under construction, however I’ve grown quite fond of my quads and triceps. They are always the easiest to develop.

Q: Do you have a part you most like to train or favorite exercise?
A: I love to train legs. When you involve all of the muscles within the leg during your workout, it feels more challenging in terms of cardio. I always feel like I’ve achieved something when I burn out my legs. I actually don’t really have a favorite exercise as I’m always looking for variations to hit muscles differently.

Q: What is your normal training routine and diet like and how do you alter it for contest prep?
A: I’m still fine tuning my training schedule, however I typically will get my cardio done in the morning before work. I work at a desk during the day, therefore I’m ready to get up and move some iron by the end of the day. Last year I incorporated Muay Thai and TRX training within my schedule which propelled me out of that 5th place category to qualify for nationals. This year I’m going to continue with the fight training 2-3 times per week as well as weight training to develop those areas that were underdeveloped for the last show. This year, I am also working with the authors of the book Turbocharged to trial their fat burning techniques as it pertains to extreme athletes such as myself. I will be blogging about my results, so stay tuned!

Q? When someone sees your physique or hears you compete for the first time, what is the most common reaction? More positive or negative?
A: I think people are inspired by my drive and commitment to fitness. As a 39 year old woman, maintaining a fit physique encourages many to aspire for ultimate fitness. Many women approach me in the gym and ask “how can I have arms like you?!” I like to think that my story and seeing me in action, sparks a sense of hope within the average woman.

Q: When they see it that first time, what is the one question or comment you are most sick of hearing?
A: I honestly never tire of hearing comments or receiving questions. I typically hear “I could NEVER do that!” I like to take that as a challenge to prove that I’ve been through the depths of despair and have come back stronger and more confident than ever before. If I can do it yes, YOU can do it!

Q: What is the biggest misconception about women who train and compete or the one thing you wish people understood?
A: I believe people look at the sport as somewhat of a beauty pageant. My goal is to really educate the sporting community that Competitive Fitness is a legitimate sport with devoted, committed athletes. If you watch a Figure competitor train, you will never view her as anything other than an athlete.

Q: What is the best and worst part of training for you?
A: The best part of training is seeing the end result and staying youthful. The worst part of training, the exhaustion that sometimes comes with it when holding down a full-time job. I would love the opportunity to train freely without the corporate commitments. Until then, I do what is necessary to train hard every day!

Q: Do you have any favorite competitors or any you admire?
A: I have an admiration for all competitors. A number of us are mothers, wives, girlfriends bosses, and hold down a 9 to 5 job. It says a lot about woman’s character that she can juggle so many titles and responsibilities with grace and strength.

Q: Do you have a favorite cheat food?
A: We have a place called Wing Stop here in Colorado that has the most amazing garlic parmesan wings. Besides that, anything that’s NOT on the competition diet is my favorite cheat food.

Q: If another woman told you she wanted to start training, what is the one piece of advice you would most want to give her?
A: I would say visit a show first. If you can’t visit a show, conduct your own research to become educated on the sport itself and the demands it requires. Once you’re comfortable with what you’ve learned, set a date, put it on the calendar and find a trainer or a friend who competes to guide you. Train hard, and don’t let anything stop you from attaining your competition goals!

Q: Do you think its becoming more common for women to use the weights as opposed to just doing cardio and things?
A: I think we still have a long way to go in convincing women that weight training is almost necessary to incorporate into regular fitness routines. I still do not see enough women in the weight room. I do hear a number of times from women in the gym that they would like to lift weights, however they don’t know what to do. We’re coming up in the weight training game, but still have work to do to make it more mainstream amongst women especially as we get older.

Q: Outside of training, any other hobbies or activities you enjoy?
A: I love Fight training: Muay Thai and boxing. This is my second passion. I love the sense of empowerment it develops and how it shapes my body. I created Fyter Fitness to promote Fighter Intense Training as a tool to develop mental, spiritual and physical fitness and empowerment. I also enjoy anything athletic and being outside.

Q: Can you describe a typical day in the life of Nichole Moran Cruz.
A: My day starts early: 5am – cardio time, off to work by 8am until 5pm, back to the gym for more cardio and weight training or muay thai class, home to cook and spend time with kids, working on Fyter Fitness or CFAA – Competitive Fitness Athletes Association projects, packing food for the next day and then off to bed by 12 hopefully. Days are long during the competition season.

Q: Describe Nichole Moran Cruz in five words.
A: Resilient, Relentless, Committed, Determined, Evolving

Q: What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
A: I absolutely love monstrous pickup trucks. I’m only 5’5 ½”, but my next dream vehicle is either an F150, Dodge Ram or Toyota Tundra. Orange, big and powerful!

Q: Any set plans for the near future as far as competing or anything else?
A: I intend to compete as much as I can this year. I will definitely hit the USAs in Vegas, possibly Figure Masters and Nationals in Atlanta. My first show of the year has yet to be determined. I will also be hosting the first conference for CFAA – Competitive Fitness Athletes Association this year date yet to be determined. I will be training with various MMA fighters throughout the year, conducting interviews and blogging about my experiences in order to provide an inside view as to what it truly means to be a Fighter and how to spark the Fyter within.

Q: Anything you want to take this opportunity to plug or promote?
A: I have a couple of ventures being developed right now: CFAA – Competitive Fitness Athletes Association which promotes the sport of Competitive Fitness and its athletes. This website can be found at: www.cfathletes.com . My other venture is Fyter Fitness which promotes empowerment: mind, body and spirit, through Fighter Intense Training. Information about Fyter Fitness can be found at: www.fyterfitness.com

Q: Are you looking for sponsors? If so what are they getting in Nichole Moran Cruz the athlete and competitor?
A: I am looking for sponsors for myself and many other phenomenal athletes. I am the ultimate athlete: I have overcome domestic violence, being a single parent, and have always kept myself grounded and excelled as an athlete regardless of my circumstances. I am a role model to many who have survived trauma and utilized those battles as a springboard for achievement and greatness. I train hard, work hard, and always strive for the Ultimate fitness and personal success.

Q: Nichole, again, I thank you for taking the time to do this. Any last words before you go?
A: You bet! Thank you for such a great interview. I look forward to many accomplishments in 2012!

2012-01-23T13:37:00.000-08:00

My better late than never Combat Challenge 18 Results

;) -LY

145 lbs – Male Featherweight

Josh Myers 0-2 (Independent) vs. Derek Wright 0-0 (Dragons Den)

1^st - Wright comes out quick to land a few shots, pulls guard and sinks in a guillotine. Myers doesn’t get a chance to tap, and is out cold.

Win: Derek Wright

Reason: KO Guillotine

Time: 0:17 Round 1

135 lbs – Male Bantamweight

Robbie Wilson 0-0 (Team Impact) vs. Nick Espinoza 0-0 (Brown Pride MMA)

1^st - Both are trading a few punches until Wilson shoots in for the takedown, Espinoza stuffs and adjusts to start working from the back, holding Wilson to the ground in a turtle position. Espinoza advances into side control, as Wilson is fighting to gain better positioning, but Espinoza lands in the mount position continuing to work his ground and pound mixing in a few hard knees to the body of Wilson until the end of the round.

Espinoza worked Wilson’s right eye over enough to leave it swollen shut at the end of round 1. The doctor has been called in to check, and apparently Wilson won’t be continuing on.

Win: Nick Espinoza

Reason: Medical Stoppage

205 lbs – Male Light Heavyweight

Chris Hogue 0-0 (Independent) vs. Nick Halkides 1-0 (Evolve MMA)

1^st- Quick heavy hands and Hogue goes right in for the takedown, he gets caught in arm bar positioning but slams out it to land into half guard, works to mount, and back to half. Halkides is controlling Hogue’s posture well but Hogue is able to work a few shots in on Halkides. Chris Hogue has control of first round.

2^nd – The fighters clinch up quick working back and forth for fence positioning, and even sneaking in a few foot stomps as well as Hogue landing a nice flying knee to the body of Halkides. Hogue is working for the single leg as Halkides works to sink in a Guillotine. Hogue gets the takedown he’s been working for, lands in half guard and is able to land a few more heavy hands onto Halkides before the bell rings.

3^rd – Hogue gets the take down at the beginning of the round, working in to full mount. Hogue works through Halkides attempt to control is posture and landing a few heavy shots to the face. Halkides attempts to get in a better spot but Hogue continues to control the ground and keep Halkides on his back.

Win: Chris Hogue

Score: 30-27 Unanimous Decision

135 lbs – Female Welterweight

Angie Reinhardt 1-1 (Power of One MMA) vs. Norma Rueda 2-0 (Cenrockda Siam Muay Thai Attack Force)

1^st – Round starts off with the exchange of punches, they clinch and Rueda works her knees into the picture. Referee resets the fighters, and Rueda lands a heavy 1-2 clinches, and throws an accidental knew to Reinhardt’s face. Quick break, and they’re back at it with Rueda getting the takedown landing in Reinhardt’s guard and working her ground and pound while Reinhardt attempts to control posture until end of round 1.

2^nd – Rueda starts out the round with leg kicks but Reinhardt answers with an over hand right. Fighter’s trade punches into the clinch and Reinhardt pulls guard with a guillotine attempt. Rueda is able to pull he head out and starts to work her ground and pound until the referee feels it’s time to reset. Punches are traded to the cage where Rueda is able to pin Reinhardt and get her takedown. From the ground Rueda is able to work to side control, landing pretty heavy on Reinhardt. Rueda gives a good attempt on the Americana, but can’t pull it off before the bell rings.

3^rd. Reinhardt comes out landing a heavy spinning back fist, which leads to Rueda clinching up on the cage and scoring another takedown. Rueda works knees to the body, reaching full mount position. Reinhardt tries to climb the cage in effort to get out from underneath, but leaves an arm out for an arm bar attempt for Rueda. It almost looks like Rueda can finish it, but Reinhardt rolls out, and the round ends with Rueda in side control. Great round on both ends.

Win: Norma Rueda

Score: 30-27 Unanimous Decision

135 lbs – Male Bantamweight

Allan Froelich 0-1 (VIP D-Boyz) vs. William Freedson 1-3 (Vanyo Fight Team)

1^st – Froelich starts the round off with a roundhouse which opened up for Freedson to go in for the takedown and work himself into full mount landing quick and heaving giving Froelich no other choice but to give up his back. Freedson has both hooks in and is working for the guillotine. Froelich is able to fight out, but leaves an arm out for Freedson to latch on and apply a nasty arm bar.

Win: Allan Froelich

Submission: Arm bar

Time: 1:51 Round 1

170 lbs – Male Welterweight

Kyle Fenton 0-0 (Team Impact) vs. Larry Merriweather 0-0 (Instigator Fight Team)

1^st Fenton goes right in and shoots for the takedown, Merriweather sprawls and lands a few heavy shots but Fenton still pushes forward and gets the Takedown. Back on their feet, Fenton lands heavy and knocks Merriweather to the mats, leaving Fenton working for a Guillotine. Merriweather moves him to the cage, and gets his head out standing up just go get taken back down. Fenton works to full mount, and attaining Merriweather's back to sink in the rear naked and get the tap.

Win: Kyle Fenton

Submission: Rear Naked Choke

Time: 2:47 1^st Round

145 lbs – Male Featherweight

Roosevelt Archie 2-3 (PA Brawlers) vs. Sean Clair 1-0 (Renzo Gracie Pittsburgh)

1^st - Clair starts the fight off immediately going for the take down, working from half guard landing a few knees to the body. Archie attempts to get out from the bottom but Clair has full control of this round, finishing off with another takedown and some heavy ground and pound.

2^nd - Clair scores another take down, to side control while Archie attempts to walk the cage to get out from the bottom, but Clair uses this opportunity to take full mount. Clair is able to use his ground and pound against Archie’s failed attempts to escape. Round ends with Clair on top again.

3^rd – Archie comes out of the gate landing a heavy right which stuns Clair, Clair shoots in taking Archie to the cage and gets the takedown. Archie is trying to work the guillotine but Clair is in no serious threat. Referee stands them up. Clair goes right back in for the takedown, back to side control, and mount trying to work against Archie’s effort to control his posture, landing a few punches and ending the round with an arm bar attempt but Archie is able to hold on until the bell rings.

Win: Sean Clair

Score: 30-27 Unanimous Decision

155 lbs - Male Lightweight

Fadi Shuman 0-0 (Mad Dog Fight Team vs. Eddie Dayok 0-0 (Independent)

1^st – Shuman comes out landing a right roundhouse but Dayok quickly responds with his hands, Dayok tries to clinch and pin Shuman to the cage in attempt to stop the flurry of punches and roundhouses Shuman is landing. Shuman picks Dayok for the slam, and works to mount and back landing hammers to sink in a rear naked choke but bailed on it to land a few more heavy hands to Dayok’s face. I’d say an easy 30/27 round for Shuman.

2^nd – Instant replay of first round “ Shuman comes out landing kicks but Dayok responds with his hands” Fighters clinch up and are working for cage positioning, Shuman is landing knees to the body while defending Dayok's takedown attempt. Dayok switches to the single leg and gets his takedown he’s been working for. The round ends as Dayok is landing heavy hands from his feet while Shuman is on his back.

3^rd – Round starts off with a few wild punches, and ends up on the ground again to give Shuman another chance to work ground and pound to give Dayok no choice but to give up his back again. Dayok is trying to protect himself while Shuman has him in a body triangle and is landing heavy to his head. Shuman sinks in the RNC but Dayok isn’t quitting, Shuman bails on the RNC and throws blows until the referee is forced to call the fight.

Win: Fadi Shuman

Reason: TKO – Strikes

Time: 2:52 3^rd

135 lbs – Male Bantamweight

Zach Forrester 1-2 (PA-Brawlers) vs. Josh Burr 1-2 (Independent)

1^st - A few heavy right hands were exchanged as Burr shoots and is stuffed. Looks like they’re testing each other out, not throwing too much of anything until Forrester lands a wild right hook. Shoot, Stuff, wild hooks.

2^nd – Burr shoots again, and Forrester sprawls. They’re fighting for positioning on the ground as Burr gets to side control but his head is caught by Forrester. Burr trying to work the body until the fight makes it to the feet again. By Burr’s 3^rd shot in on Forrester he gets the legs and lands in Forrester’s guard. Burr works a little bit of the body and head against Forrester’s attempt to control his posture.

3^rd – Burr opens the round with another take down attempts, and Forrester lands one or two heavy to end up with Burr fighting to get out of Forrester’s triangle attempt. Burr gets his arms out after taking a few clean punches to the face. Referee stands them up, and Burr gets the takedown into half guard and is holding positioning until the bell

Win: Zack Forrester

Score: Split Decision, 29/28 Burr, 29/28 Forrester, 29/28 Forrester

170 lbs – Male Welterweight

Nick Adkins 1-1 (Team Impact) v s Kirk Cranks haw 1-0 (Vanyo Fight Team)

1^st – Cranks haw gets a takedown after a light exchange and working to get head out of Adkins standing guillotine attempt. Crankshaw is working Adkin's back before he gets dumped off of the top, and the fight goes back to their feet. Crankshaw has Adkins pinned to the fence, working for the takedown as the round ends.

2^nd - Crankshaw is working his kicks into the clinch working knees back and forth from the cage. Few attempts for takedowns as the fight went from the fence to the center and back and forth until Crankshaw lands a few kicks and they have just enough time to clinch again before the bell rings.

3^rd – This round starts out with nothing landing and fighters going back and forth clinching on the cage. Crankshaw has his head down but Adkins can’t sink in the guillotine – they’re working knees just before Crankshaw goes down for a double leg and gets the takedown, landing himself into back control on Adkins. Crankshaw has his hooks in, and looking to sink in the rear naked choke but Adkins is able to get his head free to end the round.

Win: Kirk Crankshaw

Score: Unanimous Decision, 30/27, 30/27, 29/28

145 lbs – Female Middleweight

Allanna Jones 1-2 (American Muscle MMA) vs. Krissa Timbs 1-0 (Independent MMA & Fitness)

1^st - Timbs comes out with a round house but Jones responds with her left. Timbs shoots but is stuffed, and they’re back to their feet for Timbs to shoot again. Timbs tries to work the double leg landing in Jones’s guard. Timbs lands a few to the body and head, but Jones gives it right back and controls the posture. The round ends with the fighters exchanging blows back and forth on the ground.

2^nd - The first part of the round was spent exchanging punches, Jones is using angles well and landing, so Timbs decides to shoot for another takedown. She’s got Jones against the cage, still working for the left while she’s getting pounded by the hands of Jones. Jones lands plenty clean shots while Timbs switches to the single leg, and the round ends.

3^rd - Jones comes out landing from a quick flurry while Timbs hides behind her hands. Jones is still landing hard and heavy leaving Timbs with no choice but to shoot for a double, switches to single leg, with Jones back on the cage again. Replay of second round, Jones landing heavy clean shots until bell.

Win: Allanna Jones

Score: Unanimous Decision – 29/28, 29/28, 30/27

155 lbs – Male Lightweight

Devonte Smith 1-0 (Brickhouse MMA) vs. Kegan O’Neil 2-0 (Dungeon MMA)

1^st – Smith comes out with a front kick right off the bat followed by a flurry of punches, landing a takedown. O’Neil looks for the heal hook but catches Smith in his guard and quickly grabs onto the arm for an arm bar to finish the fight in just over a minute.

Win: Kegan O’Neil

Submission: Arm bar

Time: 1:01 1^st Round

170 lbs – Male Welterweight

Rick Borowski 2-2 (PFC) vs. Josh Lasiche 2-0 (Evolve MMA)

1^st – The round starts with Borowski answering Laschiche’s roundhouse with an overhand right. Lasiche shoots for a single, hopping to the ground Borowski lands in guard. Fighters are quickly back on their feet for Borowski to catch a kick to the nuts. Borowski takes a few minutes to recoup. Back at it lock up and Lasiche gets the takedown, fighters working for ground positioning as the round ends.

The doctor comes in to check above Borowski’s left eye, which was cut somewhere along the way in the first, but he has the ‘ok’ to move forward.

2^nd – Trading punches, Borowski catches Lasiche’s roundhouse and responds with a solid right resulting in a quick clinch and takedown for Lasiche. Lasiche is working to the mount and landing punches to take Borowski’s back and finish with a Rear Naked Choke.

Win: Josh Lasiche

Submission: Rear Naked Choke

Time: 1:49 2^nd

135 lbs – Female Welterweight

Chandra Engel 7-7 (American Muscle MMA) vs. Trisha Barr 4-4 (Team Kana)

1^st - Punches are traded between both which led into Engel’s quick takedown landing her into side control. Barr is working to put Engel into her guard and succeeds while trying to control the posture and arms of Engel. Referee stands them up. Barr lands a heavy right hook, and Engel gets back in for her second takedown to land into full mount on Barr. Barr gives up her back and Engel sinks in the RNC to end the fight.

Win: Chandra Engel

Submission: Rear Naked Choke

Time: 2:20 1st Round

145 lbs – Male Featherweight

Francis Healy 7-2-1 (Mad Dog Fight Team) vs. Tyler Saltsman 5-2 (Tem Titan)

1^st – Healy comes in with the right to knock Saltsman down; he capitalizes and takes the back while Saltsman is still on his feet. Healy is working for the RNC and finally gets Saltsman to the ground while he holds back positioning against Saltsmans attempts to turn in. Saltsman sneaks out the back grabs for the single to take Healy to his knees. First round ends on feet while Saltsman spent the majority of the time protecting his neck.

2^nd – Saltsman is trying to set up the takedown with his left, grabs for the single leg and drives. Saltsman sucks up the legs and advances to take Healy’s back. Healy spins and works back to his feet. Saltsman shoots again while Healy lands two solid hammer fists. Healy has Saltsman’s left arm trapped and is attempting to control the head but Saltsman pops out and lands heavy knees from Healy’s ribs to end the round.

3^rd - The round starts off with Saltsman shooting multiple times until he gets the takedown. Healy is back to his feet quick for Saltsman to land the over hand right and score another takedown. Saltsman is in guard working to keep out of danger from Healy’s triangle attempt and works to advance positioning. They’re back on their feet, and Saltsman picks Healy up for the slam. Saltsman is looking to trap Healy’s legs, working to pass guard but Healy gets his legs free and they’re back on their feet. The round ends with one last shot from Saltsman.

Win: Tyler Saltsman

Score: 29/28 Unanimous Decision

2011 Real Women Awards

2012-01-22T18:28:00.000-08:00

OK, all the votes are in. Thanks to everyone who voted. We had almsot twice as many votes as last year. All awards are voted on by fans except for teh fighters and competitors favorites and the Leslie Wartman Courage award and "Mighty" Mia Hayes Courage Award.

Blog Awards

1. Cover Model of the Year: Brea Sharron
2. Best Spotlight Interview: Michelle Ould
3. Best Interview- MMA: Jordan McDonald
4. Best Interview- Bikini: Christy Merritt
5. Best Interview- Fitness: Michelle Blank
6. Best Interview-Figure: Rachael Novello
7. Best Interview- Bodybuilding: Jennifer Abrams

Fitness Industry
1. Best Organization- IFBB
2. Supplement Company of the Year- Gaspari Nutrition
3. Trainer of the Year: Kim Oddo
4. Industry Website of the Year: Sioux Country
5. Best Competitor Website: Tanji Johnson
6. Weiferd Watts Memorial Award (Photographer of the year): Isaac Hinds
7. Best Blogger/Writer: Diane Mueller
8. Fitness Model of the Year: Ava Cowan

MMA Awards
1. Reporter of the Year: Loretta Hunt
2. Trainer/Gym of the Year: Greg Jackson/Mike Winklejohn
3. Referee of the Year: John McCarthy
4. Matchmaker of the Year: TIE: Nichole Long and Sam Wilson
5. Promotion of the Year: Bellator
6. Best Website/Blog: Real Women and Men's MMA
7. Best Fighter Website: Miesha Tate
8. Best Blogger/ Writer: Lacey Neher
9. Best Nickname: Jessica "Evil" Eye
10. Biggest Box Ofice Draw: Miesha Tate
11. Breakout Amateur Fighter of the Year: Jordan Gaza
12. Breakout Pro Fighter of the Year: Ronda Rousey
13. 2012 is Their Year Amateur: Jordan Gaza
14. 2012 is Their Year Pro: Sara McMann
15. Most Improved Fighter: Miesha Tate
16. Most Underrated Fighter: Jessica Eye
17. Best Representitive for the Sport: Jessica Philippus
18. Voters Favorite Amateur: Taylor Stratford
19. Voters Favorite Pro: Miesha Tate
20. Fighters Favorite Amateur: TIE: Taylor Stratford and Jordan Gaza
21. Fighters Favorite Pro: Megumi Fuji
22. Submission of the Year: Ronda Rousey's Armbar over Julia Budd
23. KO of the Year: Amanda Nunes over Julia Budd
24. Fight of the Year: Jessica Aguilar vs Carla Esparza
25. Amateur Fighter of the Year: Taylor Stratford
26. Pro Fighter of the Year: Miesha Tate

Physique Award
1. Physique Competitor of the Year: Dana Linn Bailey

Bikini Awards

1. Best Stage Presence: Jamie Baird
2. Breakout Competitor of the Year: Skye Taylor
3. Most Inspirational: Nicole Nagrani
4. Most Underrated Amateur: Rebecca Staggs
5. Most Underrated Pro: Jaime Baird
6. Most Improved Amateur: Heather Nappi
7. msot Improved Pro: Nicole Nagrani
8. 2012 Is Their Year Amateur: Rebecca Staggs
9. 2012 Is Their Year Pro: Jaime Baird
10. Best Representitive for the Sport: Nicole Nagrani
11. Voters Favorite Amateur: Skye Taylor
12. Voters Favorite Pro: Jaime Baird
13. Comeptitors Favorite Amateur: Rebecca Staggs
14. COmeptitors Favorite Pro: Nicole Nagrani
15. Amateur Competitor of the Year: Skye Taylor
16. Pro Competitor of the Year: Nicole Nagrani

Fitness Awards

1. Best Routines: Tanjo Johnson
2. Breakout Competitor of the Year: Michelle Blank
3. Most Inspirational Competitor: Tanji Johnson
4. Most Underrated Amateur: Viko Newman
5. Most Underrated Pro: Stacy Wright
6. Most Improved Amateur: Paula Williams-Gulman
7. Most Improved Pro: Michelle Blank
8. 2012 Is Their Year Amateur: Viko Newman
9. 2012 Is Their Year Pro: Oksana Grishina
10. Best Representitive for the Sport: Tanji Johnson
11. Voters Favorite Amateur: Paula Williams-Gulman
12. Voters Favorite Pro: Adela Garcia
13. Competitors Favorite Amateur: Paula Williams-Gulman
14. Competitors Favorite Pro: Tanji Johnson
15. Amateur Compeitor of the Year: Paula Williams-Gulman
16. Pro Competitor of the Year: Adela Garcia

Figure Awards
1. Best Stage Presence: Nicole Wilkins
2. Breakout Competitor of the Year: Shelly Albetta
3. Most Inspirational Competitor: Nicole Wilkins
4. Most Underrated Amateur: Michelle Beck
5. Most Underrated Pro: Katherynne Ramirez
6. Most Improved Amateur: Shelly Albetta
7. Most Improved Pro: Ann Titone
8. 2012 Is Their Year Amateur: Michelle Beck
9. 2012 Is Their Year Pro: Ava Cowan
10. Best Representitive for the Sport: Ava Cowan
11. Voters Favorite Amateur: TIE: Michelle Beck and Shelly Albetta
12. Voters Favorite Pro: Ava Cowen
13. Competitors Favorite Amateur: Heather Grace
14. Competitors Favorite Pro: Nicole Wilkins
15. Amateur Competitor of the Year: Heather Grace
16. Pro Competitor of the Year: Nicole Wilkins

Bodybuilding Awards
1. Best Poser: Debbie Bramwell
2. Breakout Competitor of the Year: TIE: Tarna Alderman and Kira Neuman
3. Most Inspirational Competitor: Michelle Brent
4. Most Underrated Amateur: Sherri Gray
5. most Underrated Pro: Nicole Ball
6. Most Improved Amateur: Alyssa Stroud
7. Most Improved Pro: Alina Popa
8. 2012 Is Their Year Amateur: Kira Neuman
9. 2012 Is Their Year Pro: Nicole Ball
10. Best Representitive for the Sport: Nicole Ball
11. Voters Favorite Amateur: Kira Neuman
12. Voters Favorite Pro: Nicole Ball
13. Competitors Favorite Amateur: Alyssa Stroud
14. Competitors Favorite Pro: Iris Kyle
15. Amateur Competitor of the Year: Michelle Cummings
16. Pro Competitor of the Year: Iris Kyle

Leslie Wartman Courage Award: Zoa Linsey
"Mighty" Mia Hayes Courage Award: Mia Hayes

Woman of the Year: Nicole Wilkins

Why Ronda Rousey Deserves Her Title Shot

2012-01-19T11:40:00.000-08:00

I am no writer, and have never claimed to be. I do interviews. It's what I like to think I am..... well, at least decent at. So when I do writer, there may be bad grammar r a punctuation mark in the wrong place. The rare occasion I do actually write something that isn't an interview, it's just so I can speak what I feel. After some thinking last night, I came to a realization. I realized, I do believe Ronda Rousey getting the shot at Miesha Tate is the right way to go. So, I decided to share my thoughts on why.

I have been very quick to say I believe Sarah Kaufman deserved the shot at Tate, even told a top ten pound for pound female fighter that just two days ago. I felt Kaufman earned it more than Rousey. How did she earn it? Building up some impressive wins over good fighters, and let's not forget, she owns a victory over Tate already. But if the NFL and NBA have taught us anything of late, it's that sports are a business. MMA and the UFC/Strikeforce/Zuffa is also a business. I feel Tate vs Rousey makes business sense. Let's go back to March 2007. Did Randy Couture deserve a title shot vs Tim Sylvia? A heavyweight title shot for a guy who was 4-3 in his last seven fights.... not to mention those fights were at light heavyweight? No, he probably didn't deserve that shot. But it made for good business. And oh how we all cheered when our hero, Randy Couture won a unanimous decision to win the title. Had Brock Lesnar earned his shot at Couture? Probably not, but it made business sense. Before you are quick to bash Zuffa and Dana White, remember, they are not alone in this. How about when Pride would do their "freak show" fights. Sure, they were often fights that were unfair to one participant, but people had interest in them and paid to see them. Fact is, every sport, be it MMA, football, basketball, any of them, will always do what is financially best.

Why are we so quick to hate on Ronda? I admit, I was guilty of this myself. But in a sport where it's hard to make a living sometimes, Ronda has done what she needs to do to set herself up financially. Isn't that the American dream? Make a living doing what you love? We get mad at the things she says. We get mad that she "talked herself" into a title shot. I say, good for her, she did what she had to do to help herself financially. To me, it's no different then when I was managing a pizza shop and I did something that helped business. I made sure to tell the owner, hoping that what I did would make my pay check a little bigger. Let's go back to the fight with Julia Budd. Who was that guy holding a watch in the cage? It was "Judo" Gene LeBell. Old school pro wrestling fans will remember when the LeBell family ran their wrestling territory and had the gimmick of The Monster, a wrestler created in a laboratory. Was it a stupid gimmick? Yes!! But it was an attempt to sell tickets, make money. Let's stick with the pro wrestling theme here. It's been reported Ronda got the name "Rowdy" because she was a Roddy Piper fan growing up. Why was Piper the best heel in the sport in his hey day? Because he knew how to cut a promo and make you hate him. The more you hated him, the more money you would pay to see baby faces like Hulk Hogan, Jimmy Snuka or even Mr. T beat him. I see that in Ronda Rousey. She is willing to play the heel, the bad guy to drum up more interest in her fight and make it a bigger event, and in the end profit more. Let's not forget the more interest in her fight, the better it is for her opponent as well. As Muhammad Ali once said "the more people hate me, the more they will pay to see someone beat me".

Everyone involved in women's MMA is talking about Tate vs Rousey, but so are a lot of people who don't follow the women's side of the sport. If Tate was fighting Kaufman, would that happen? Sure the supporters of women's MMA would be talking, but outside of that, there would be little or no interest. In the long run, I think this is good for women's MMA. If Rousey wins people who don't like her, keep paying or watching hoping the next girl beats her. If she wins, she wins in front of her biggest audience and becomes a bigger name and maybe propels women's MMA to bigger heights. If she looses, well her haters can say "I told you so" and we will still have people talking about the women's side of the sport. Plus, if she looses, Miesha wins in front of a big audience, becomes more well known, and perhaps gets more attention for her next fight with the winner of Sarah Kaufman vs Alexis Davis.

I know I won't change the minds of the purists who want to see Kaufman get the shot because they feel they deserve it. Quite frankly, I don't want to change anyones mind. If everyone agreed, what would the fun be in that? Healthy debate is good for the sport because it helps provide interest. We all have our opinions and are entitled to them. Opinions are never wrong. I was one of those "purists" who want Kaufman to get the title shot. But, I was also a purist who hated when MLB started inter-league play and when they introduced the wild card. But over time, I have realized it's good for business. For example, me living in Cleveland, seeing teams from the National League come here can entice me to pay to go see a game when I may normally not because I get to see a team I never got to see come here. Or the wild card keeps a few extra teams in the post season hunt, and helps teams get a few more fans to pay to come see a game they normally might not pay for if there team was out of the post season hunt. In this case, I have changed my tune on Ronda, because she has garnered more interest in women's MMA. There will be people buying tickets or turning on Showtime to watch. People who without Ronda wouldn't have paid for that ticket or wouldn't have been watching the card on television.

I am just one guy. One guy who wants to see the sport grow. In my opinion, Ronda Rousey helps the sport grow.

Spotlight Interview: Kira Neuman

2012-01-18T13:30:00.000-08:00

Kira Neuman is one of the Bodybuilders every fan and competitor seems to like. Its not hard to see why either. She always rings a great physique to the stage, but she also brings a great positive attitude to everything she does. In 2011 she competed twice finishing 6th and 8th but as you will read, she realized she wasn't in the right weight class for her. That being said, it's pretty impressive that she looked as good as anyone on that stage when competing in a weight class that wasn't right for her. Kira Neuman is one of those people who you can't say it's not about IF she wins her Pro card, its a matter of WHEN she gets it.

Q: Can you start out just talking about how you got started weight training?
A: Well, I've always been an athlete. I specifically got into training when I went to Ball State. They have an amateur show their every year. I said "that's cool, I wanna look like those girls, they look so good". I really got into weight training then and decided to do that show the next year.

Q: So you knew you wanted to be on stage before you even started?
A: Yeah, which is kind of weird. Those girls looked amazing and that's what inspired me to start. When I got into the weight room I was specifically training for a show.

Q: A lot of people say after their first show, it becomes addicting. Was that the case with you?
A: Yea, the first time obviously I didn't look as good as I have recently. But it was so much fun, the process, the food, all of it. It was totally for me.

Q: Obviously some don't consider bodybuilding a female sport. Was competing something the people close to you were in favor of or understood?
A: Oh hell yeah My dad used to compete, nothing big, but he did some local shows. He was super into it and it got my two older brothers back in the gym. My entire family thought it was cool and they are still all about it for me.

Q: This year you did USA's and took 6th and North Americans and took 8th. Overall, not the placings, but how you looked, how satisfied were you?
A: Well, I was bummed out, only because I wanted top five and it was the best I ever looked. At first I was like "shit, this sucks" but then I realized, it's the best I ever looked and I can be happy with that. But I definitely wanted top five and it was a bummer.

Q: When you look at pictures, for example at USA's I thought you should have placed higher, and you don't place top five, is it hard to keep your emotions in check?
A: Thank you for thinking I should have been higher. Yeah kind of. Luckily no one sees it. The way it happened, and it happened in 2009, which is another reason I was disappointed, they pulled six of us out and then compared us. So I thought I had a chance at top five, and everyone was look "you got top five" or "you got top three". But they didn't move us and I wasn't super confident. So really, you don't know until you walk off stage and they don't call you top five. Then that's when you know are are like "shit", so its hard to keep it in check, but no one was gonna see me so I didn't care.

Q: I look at pictures from 2009 and compare them to now, and to me, your biggest improvement is just overall symmetry, would you agree?
A: Yeah! I definitely think conditioning, that is always my weak point. I lost a little size at the time, but conditioning for me was better this year and I was happy about that. My legs looked a lot better, which is always my weak point.

Q: What improvements do you want for 2012?
A: Well, this will sound so weird and ass backwards, but I realize I am not big enough to be a light heavyweight and that's probably why I didn't place top five, so I am gonna down size a little and go back to middleweight. I feel like I look best at middleweight and am not light heavyweight material. So I am gonna down size and physique wise, be a little smaller.

Q: You mentioned down sizing, with that in mind, would you consider physique or are you happy with bodybuilding?
A: Oh my gosh, I love bodybuilding. That's where my heart is. I think physique is awesome to, cause it gives girls who wouldn't have a chance in bodybuilding to compete and do well. But, it will sound weird, but there are so many girls in physique that I would rather stick to bodybuilding. I so want a Pro card, and feel I have a better chance in bodybuilding. Plus I would have to really down size for physique.

Q: When you are in the gym, beautiful girl and great physique, do you get any unwanted attention?
A: Aww thank you. Not really. My girlfriend owns a gym and I train there and we both work there. It's fairly small so everyone knows everybody. At first I did, but now everyone just knows us, so we are old news now. But if I would go to another gym, yeah, I would get a lot of unwanted attention. And I get it outside the gym to. We both do, cause she is pretty muscular to.

Q: Outside the gym, do you dress to show it, or conceal it to avoid attention?
A: I dress to show it off. My thing is, I worked hard for it, I know I look good, I am proud of the way I look. I have no problem showing off a fit, healthy physique. I know I get a lot of looks, and yeah its annoying, but if I really gave a shit, I would cover up. Even when then I found people say "you look fit" or whatever, and I'm like "I don't know how you can tell, I'm wearing sweats", but whatever. But yeah I dress to show it off.

Q: I am a fan of your back. Can you give an example of what you do for back?
A: Well, the biggest thing is deadlifting. When I trained as a powerlifter, my back, I did deadlifting, and that's all I did for back, heavy deadlifting, makes a huge difference. I always go back to old school pull-ups. I keep it simple unless I am bored.

Q: You are popular with fans and other competitors. People say its because of your attitude and are personable, is that something important to you?
A: Hell yeah! I am always positive, rarely have anything negative to say about anyone. My thing is, I just am a big goof ball backstage. I like to have fun. Being uptight isn't me. I keep a positive attitude, no matter how shitty I feel. I am grateful I can do this because there are a lot of people who think they can't or won't for whatever reason, so I am grateful.

Q: For 2012, any idea what shows you want to do, or just playing it by ear?
A: Right now I am playing it by ear. We are going on vacation in April so I am dieting anyway so I can get in better shape, and I wanna keep in better shape for the off season. I will probably do another local show, it helps bring in business for me and the gym, and also I will probably do nationals, its in Atlanta and a short drive.

Q: Before we finish, anyone you want to thank?
A: Well, you of course, you are always supportive of all of us, and I appreciate it and know all the girls do. Thanks for letting me do this, I am flattered. My girlfriend, she puts up with my shit and mood swings, so definitely her. My friends and my family.

Dani Mattisson Interview

2012-01-14T20:24:00.000-08:00

Q: First, Dani, I want to thank you for taking the time to do this.
A: Well, you are very welcome. I very much respect what you are working to do and I appreciate all the help and support that you provide for women in MMA, bodybuilding and fitness! We all greatly appreciate your efforts!!

Q: Can you start out by telling a little about yourself?
A: I have lived in the mid-west all my life. While the winters get a bit too cold for my liking I do enjoy the 4 seasons. I also love the country side, the people and the feeling that you get in all the small towns. I am a wife, a mom of two great kids, a business woman and recently have been involved in modeling and figure competitions. While I got started in modeling and figure a little later than most people I do feel that we all get out of life exactly what we put into it. So, theres really no excuse for not doing whatever we desire, today!

Q: Before the gym were you an especially athletic person? Play any sports or anything?
A: Actually, when I was growing up there were limited opportunities for girls to be involved in athletics. Even at home we didn't do much as far as physical activities go. I have tried very hard to encourage and support our kids in athletics because it does teach so much about team work, overcoming defeat and perseverance. Its an experience that every boy or girl should have. But, for me, I really only started getting involved at the gym a couple of years ago. At one point, one of the trainers at the gym approached me and offered to help me out. Better late than never!

Q: What initially led you into the gym?
A: My kids are both what is affectionately known as gym rats. They lift a lot and they were very supportive and encouraging to me too. Usually its the parents that try to inspire the kids but when it came to lifting it was the other way around. Now, being at the gym is something that we all enjoy and can share. Oh, and you wouldn't believe the number of jars of protein powder we keep at our house lol!

Q: Was training something you picked up fairly easy? How long before you started to see results?
A: Well, its always a struggle to get over that initial hill but once you start to get going it comes naturally. Now, if I miss a day I feel bad, emotionally and physically. I guess I am somewhat lucky since I do see results quickly but I've always had a fairly healthy diet and that is the secret, I believe. The old adage "you are what you eat" is so true and when you combine hard work in the gym with a good diet I think anyone will see results quickly. I also started working with a trainer which really helped me to improve and understand the proper form and how to arrange my workouts throughout the week. At that point, I saw results come much faster and that is when I began to consider the possibility of entering figure competitions.

Q: What made you decide to compete for the first time?
A: I have a friend that I met at the gym that is a body builder. I went to see her compete and was immediately motivated to try to do something for myself. Her inspiration really got me very focused and I got more excited when I saw the results. I decided that I would try taking this effort further and made the decision to enter competitions. It was a little daunting at first to consider competing but I figured if I didn't pursue my dreams they'd never be more than that, dreams.

Q: Is competing something your family and friends supported?
A: I am very fortunate to have a lot of support. I had friends and family at both my recent contests and I really thank them for being there. It is very difficult to stand in front of an audience wearing very little while a bunch of judges look you over to find any imperfections. You find out how you do in front of that same crowd too. So having a few friendly faces out there is so important and I appreciate all the help they have given me.

Q: Was competing what you expected or did anything surprise you about it
A: I think the thing that is the most surprising is the variation in judging. Even at the same contest you can have one judge mark you as first and another mark you as last. So trying to figure out what judges are looking for is a little more elusive than I anticipated. Still, I am completely committed to getting all "firsts" at one of my upcoming competitions!

Q: Can you share your contest history.
A: I have been in 2 figure contests during the fall of 2011. I have competed in the masters, open and tall divisions at both of my contests. My best finish is second in masters and open tall but, like I said, I am 100% committed to doing even better at my next competition!

Q: As far as body parts, what do you feel is your best one?
A: Oh, that is a good question. While I always feel like I could improve something, I guess I am most pleased with my abs. A lot of girls & guys at the gym even ask me for advice so its nice to get noticed for my work. Abs take a lot of exercise but also a lot of good diet and I think people really recognize that, which is nice.

Q: Do you have a part you most like to train or a favorite exercise?
A: Yes! It has to be my legs and butt because they are the hardest for me to get to where I want them to be. Walking lunges are my favorite exercise and I love what they do for me! I challenge myself by carrying heavy weights as I lunge. I always get a comment or two from my gym buddies as they watch me lunge past them.lol

Q: What is your normal training routine and diet like and how do you alter it for contest prep?
A: I try to consume 1.5 grams of protein for every pound I weigh. That means eating small meals several times to keep my metabolism high too. It was hard at first to get used to not ever feeling real full but then again I never really feel hungry either. I put my carbs mostly into my first breakfast and limit them the rest of the day. We go through a lot of fish and chicken around our house. I really don't like to change up my diet at contest time. If I shed too much water I can end up looking too striated for NPC figure guidelines.

Q: When someone sees your physique or hears you compete for the first time, what is the most common reaction? More positive or negative?
A: I think their first reaction is that they are puzzled as to what is involved in competing. When I explain what I have been doing to prepare and what I actually do in the competitions they are really excited and proud of me for putting so much into this in addition to continuing with my day to day life activities. So overall things are really positive and that really helps a lot!

Q: When they see it that first time, what is the one question or comment you are most sick of hearing?
A: This is really easy "you are so lucky / its easy for you". That is usually followed up by asking what kind of diet I am on. Now, I do feel very fortunate that I have the opportunity to focus like I do on the gym. A lot of people are working two jobs just to make ends meet. What I do does take a lot of time and while I know I am not perfect and want to improve every day I have to say that there are just no short cuts to getting into contest shape. So, I try to take those moments as an opportunity to help spread a little experience and knowledge, maybe even help someone reach their goals.

Q: What is the biggest misconception about women who train and compete or the one thing you wish people understood?
A: Some people think it is just a physical thing. It surely is not. It is about living healthy, knowing my body, enjoying and feeling really good about myself. Unfortunately, a lot of us women are so hard on ourselves and have very low self esteem. I was like that for a very long time and it kept me from even dreaming of what I could do. Through my journey to my first competition, I have gained a self confidence that I hope always shows positively in every facet of my life.

Q: What is the best and worst part of training for you?
A: Well, I really like weight training. Its a lot of fun and the feedback is instantaneous. You know exactly how many reps you did and how much weight you were able to lift. You can chart your progress really easily. The thing I like the least is the aerobic work, like getting on the elliptical for instance. It seems to go very slowly and the feedback is a lot more nuanced.

Q: Do you have any favorite competitors or any you admire?
A: I bought some DVD's and a book from Julie Lohre and that information really helped me out a lot. She also sent along a nice hand written note to me, which is special. I've also really been inspired by Jaime Eason. I have seen her in M&F several times and also seen her online. I really admire everything she has accomplished and also how she has molded fitness and modeling so seamlessly. She is something very special.

Q: Do you have a favorite cheat food?
A: I can pass up on the sweets, no problem. I guess what I really enjoy a little cheat with is a nice wine on the weekends and some really good cheese. I guess when it comes to my diet I try to do everything in moderation, even moderation itself lol.

Q: If another woman told you she wanted to start training, what is the one piece of advice you would most want to give her?
A: Just get started, today, not tomorrow. Don't worry about buying the right clothes or picking out the right class, get to the gym. Being involved is infectious and you cant get that unless you are there. Also, I would say that you must pay yourself first. By that I mean that you cant always put your needs last. I know that most moms would likely agree that their family comes first. I certainly understand, support that and feel that to the core of my being. But, I firmly believe you have to set aside some time for yourself every day to keep healthy. Not only is it very important to feel and be healthy but it helps inspire your family too, and isn't that what kids really need? If your kids don't dream big, they wont achieve the best they can be either.

Q: Do you think its becoming more common for women to use the weights as opposed to just doing cardio and things?
A: Some women watch me lift and no doubt think I am nuts lol. What they don't understand is that you can control how lifting affects you. By controlling the weight, the number of reps and your diet you can tailor your work out to give you exactly the look you want. I've seen a lot of women that strictly diet and don't lift at all. Thin is nice and thin is good but I tend to think having good tone is better. You cant get that just going to spin class.

Q: Outside of training, any other hobbies or activities you enjoy?
A: I love modeling. I am very lucky to live with my main photographer and in the course of a year we can do more than 20,000 pictures together. Our pursuit of the perfect picture takes us traveling all over the world and I've been very fortunate to work with other really gifted photographers as well. I am very much hoping to keep expanding my modeling options. It lets me live out the artistic side of life that I otherwise would never get a chance to experience.

Q: Can you describe a typical day in the life of Dani Mattisson.
A: Well, I am normally up around 5:30am and I get breakfast ready for the family. After everyone leaves I am off to the gym for a couple of hours. I use a trainer a couple of times a week and the other days I work out on my own. I normally finish up around 10 and then I am off to work until dinner time. We make dinner and then I take care of the bills, kid stuff and my modeling site and fan page on Facebook. It is a busy day but it is a lot of fun too! I love going to bed feeling like I made a difference.

Q: Describe Dani Mattisson in five words.
A: Driven, Fun, Happy, Loving, Confident.

Q: What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
A: I surely hope it is my age!!! lol

Q: Any set plans for the near future as far as competing or anything else?
A: I actually am considering three different contests around the Midwest this spring. It is always nice to be able to combine at least two competitions back-to-back since it takes a lot of effort to get to contest ready shape and you like to get all the use out of that you can before you have to step back for a bit to recharge again. I am also working on a number of modeling projects that will take me to Mexico twice, the desert southwest and perhaps to the southeast as well. Its a new year and the possibilities for all of us are endless!

Q: Anything you want to take this opportunity to plug or promote?
A: Thank you so much for this opportunity. I do have a fan page at www.facebook.com/modeldanimattisson. I am working to get some workout videos produced which will be available on the page for free as well as other dietary info. I am hosting a chat room on my page and of course sharing some of my modeling photos. People can also follow me on twitter @danimattisson. All of my efforts are designed to accomplish just one thing, to try to pay back to someone else the inspiration that I have received. Truly, my fondest dream is that someone, someday, lets me know that I helped them make a big change in their life, just like someone did for me. I wish for nothing greater quite frankly.

Q: Are you looking for sponsors? If so how can they reach you and what are they getting in Dani Mattisson the athlete and competitor?
A: I am always looking for ways to help spread the message about fitness. I am very driven, focused and genuinely want to help others reach their goals. If that interests others, my email is danimattisson@yahoo.com. People can also reach me on Facebook or Twitter as stated above or if they are members they can find my modeling portfolio at www.modelmayhem.com/danimattisson.

Q: Dani, again, I thank you for taking the time to do this. Any last words before you go?
A: I just want to thank you again for having me. I am deeply moved that you would consider me but even more so that you do so much for helping to promote so many women. This is a really great thing you are doing and I am humbled to be included in your efforts. Thank you sincerely!!! Dani Mattisson

Dawniel King Interview

2012-01-14T20:07:00.000-08:00

Q: First, Dawniel, I want to thank you for taking the time to do this.
A: It's my pleasure : )

Q: Can you start out by telling a little about yourself.
A: I am from Ohio, but currently reside in Tennessee. I started out as a hairstylist and worked as a cosmetology instructor before joining the crazy world of fitness. I have been happily married for 11 years and have 2 wonderful boys to show for it. I have the honor of staying home with them and they are without a doubt my greatest accomplishment.

Q: Before the gym were you an especially athletic person? Play any sports or anything?
A: I was always active growing up. I captained my high school cheer-leading team and went on to cheer in college. I also danced for a semi-pro basketball team in my hometown. Weight training never really entered the picture until I got married. My husband had always wanted me to train with him and after many years I finally gave in. I got serious about my training when I was 30 and now you can't get me out of the gym.

Q: What initially led you into the gym?
A: It started with my husband who always thought that I could compete. Like most wives, I didn't pay much attention. LOL! I read an article about a woman who was 33 and had 3 kids who competed at the Arnold and I thought she looked great. I called my husband and asked if he really thought I could do this? Of course, he was ecstatic and it was that day that I made a change.

Q: Was training something you picked up fairly easy? How long before you started to see results?
A: Cardio was very easy for me to move into. As a woman it was something that I already had experience with. The weight training was harder for me to understand. I was so afraid that I was going to get huge and lose the feminine look! Once I saw positive results of weight training and got serious about it, I responded well. It was like my body had been missing something and I finally figured out what it was. I started seeing results in about a month and I liked it. I seem to respond well to training and can make adjustments as needed.

Q: What made you decide to compete for the first time?
A: Once I started to see changes in my body and showed some interest in competing, people started to get concerned. I think that they where trying to protect me from disappointment. It's hard for people to believe in you in the beginning. I went to a camp and met Jen Hendershott and she encouraged me to keep going. The next month I was standing on a stage. At that moment, I knew this was for me.

Q: Is competing something your family and friends supported?
A: They have always wanted me to succeed but like me, they had little knowledge about the sport and so they didn't know how to support me. I was fortunate to find people early on who had already established themselves in the industry who gave me the encouragement I needed. My husband has always stood beside me and he without a doubt is my biggest fan and my rock.

Q: Was competing what you expected or did anything surprise you about it?
A: I really didn't know what to expect. I was so nervous and so hungry that I didn't understand why anyone would want to do something like this but my husband wouldn't let me quit until I did my first show. We had invested so much at that point that he wanted me to see it to completion. As bad as the prep work was leading up to a show, that all went away when I walked out on that stage. I guess you could say that it did surprise me! I was so overcome with emotion that I could hardly stand it. I compare it to having children. You go through so much to prepare for it and you are so exhausted when the day comes, but when you hold that new life in your hands for the first time it is all worth it. When they put the trophy in my hand I immediately started thinking about the next show.

Q: Can you share your contest history.
A: My first show was June 2010 at the Battle at the River and I took 2nd place. I then competed in the Knox Classic in August and won my class which qualified me for Nationals. I went to Nationals in October of that year and finished 16th. I took some time off and didn't compete again until September of 2011 at the North Americans where I finished 11th. I realized I needed to make some changes to my training and went to Nationals again in November where I finished 14th.

Q: As far as body parts, what do you feel is your best one?
A: I really feel that my legs are my strongest body part. I have always had good quads and calves.

Q: Do you have a part you most like to train or favorite exercise?
A: I love to train shoulders and love Military Press, unfortunately my shoulders are what I feel are my weakest body part.

Q: What is your normal training routine and diet like and how do you alter it for contest prep?
A: I normally stay around 1500 calories and train 6 days a week. My cardio consists of 6 days a week and weight training for 5. I usually try to split it up into 2 workouts a day. As a show approaches I take my calories down to 1000 and add another cardio session and another weight training session. The last few months, I 'm in the gym 7 days a week for 3 sessions a day. Diet is extremely clean with high protein and minimal carbs. I have to eliminate most fats because it is very difficult for me to stay cut if they are in my diet.

Q: When someone sees your physique or hears you compete for the first time, what is the most common reaction? More positive or negative?
A: When people see me for the first time their first question is, "do you work out?" It's usually followed up with, "how much do you bench?" They are shocked when I tell them that I don't bench. Most people are very positive about it but make the mistake of calling me a body builder. I have to explain to them that body building and figure are two different animals.

Q: When they see it that first time, what is the one question or comment you are most sick of hearing?
A: I get tired of people asking, "Do you even eat?" They are shocked to find out that I eat 6 times a day.

Q: What is the biggest misconception about women who train and compete or the one thing you wish people understood?
A: I wish that people understood that I enjoy this. It's not that I have to do it, but I choose to do it. I also wish that women understood that lifting weights is not something that is going to make you look like a man but rather empowers you as a woman.

Q: What is the best and worst part of training for you?
A: The best part is knowing that I can control something in my life. I love seeing the reflection in the mirror and knowing that I am able to make whatever changes I want to make. The worst part is knowing that my husband and kids are in the car eating pizza and I'm having Tilapia again. LOL!

Q: Do you have any favorite competitors or any you admire?
A: I admire the Mom's the most. These woman have so much more to overcome with family life and the way that your body changes after having kids. For these woman to get on stage and be able to hold their own with a younger crowd is so inspiring for me.

Q: Do you have a favorite cheat food?
A: Nothing beats a good cheeseburger.

Q: If another woman told you she wanted to start training, what is the one piece of advice you would most want to give her?
A: Make sure that you have someone who will support you unconditionally. There will be days when you feel that you can't go on and you need that 1 person who you can lean on to help carry you.

Q: Do you think its becoming more common for women to use the weights as opposed to just doing cardio and things?
A: Without a doubt! I know weight training is becoming more popular because I have to wait on my bench now! LOL! It's a great thing to see. The promotion of the sport and the exposure that many of these woman are receiving is helping to bring about this change.

Q: Outside of training, any other hobbies or activities you enjoy?
I like to volunteer at my son's school. When the time and money is there I love to travel.

Q: Can you describe a typical day in the life of Dawniel King.
A: My day starts about 5:15am. I try to get a cardio session in before getting the boys off to school. I get my first meal in and respond to emails and work on diets for other competitors. I then volunteer at my Son's school and get 2 more meals in. After school, I head to the gym for a weight training session. Then I usually get my 4th meal out of the way. I then head back to the gym for another cardio session and finish up with my 5th meal. My evening is my time to prep for the next day and finish up my 6th meal. I then put in the Friends DVD and fall asleep by 10:30pm.

Q: Describe Dawniel King in five words.
A: A Girl after a dream

Q: What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
A: It doesn't bother me to go days without showering : )

Q: Any set plans for the near future as far as competing or anything else?
A: Yes, going to bring it this year. Planning on Jr. USA's if things work out the way I want them too.

Q: Anything you want to take this opportunity to plug or promote?
A: Working on my own website but in the meantime you can find me on Facebook. Also on Facebook, I have a group of girls that my husband and I are getting ready for shows. They would love your guys support and you can find them at Girlsofdfit. Be sure to get the February Issue of Oxygen, I am in the Future of Fitness section.

Q: Are you looking for sponsors. If so how can they reach you?
A: I would love to have a Sponsor! I can be reached at dfitfitness@yahoo.com or on Facebook.

Q: Dawniel, again, I thank you for taking the time to do this. Any last words before you go?
A: It was my pleasure, thank you guys for what you are doing. Lift Hard and Live Strong.

Cheryl Jackson Interview

2012-01-12T15:20:00.000-08:00

Q: First, Cheryl, I want to thank you for taking the time to do this.
A: Thank you for the opportunity! It is my absolute pleasure.

Q: Can you start out by telling a little about yourself.
A: I am 39 years young. Originally from West Virginia (yes, I am a coal miner’s daughter), I moved to the Maryland suburbs when I was 14 after my parents divorced. I went to college in Oklahoma (GO COWBOYS!!) and eventually ended up in Baltimore, MD. I spent my whole life dreaming of being a lawyer so I got a degree in Public Policy and a Masters in Conflict Management. Then got a job as a paralegal and realized I hated it and absolutely did not want to be a lawyer. I am now a contracts administrator for an IT firm. I have 2 beautiful daughters ages 19 and 15. I LOVE, LOVE, LOOOOVVVEEE football and am I am a huge Steelers fan. I realize that makes me public enemy number one in Maryland but I will let the haters hate ;). I am also a Yankees fan and a Heat fan. I don’t have many friends when it comes to professional sports but the trash talk is half the fun.

Q: Before the gym were you an especially athletic person? Play any sports or anything?
A: Yes. I have been involved in sports all of my life. I’m a tomboy and as a kid I remember playing contact football with my male cousins which drove my dad NUTS. I have played basketball, soccer and was a competitive cheerleader. I played rugby in college and again as an adult. My last time on the pitch was 2009.

Q: What initially led you into the gym?
A: Well, I was married for a bit. That all went to hell and in 2009 after major surgery and realizing that I was miserable I hobbled my happy ass out the door. Me and my daughters rented an overpriced apartment in downtown Baltimore. Between barely paying the rent, struggling to feed my kids and recouping from a Fulkerson Osteotomy and a lateral release on my leg/knee, I became depressed and started putting on weight. I was never a big girl but I got to the heaviest I had ever been. At 149lbs, a size 10/12, stage 2 hypertension and getting winded walking 2 blocks, I decided that I needed to get my act together. In 2011 I took advantage of the January rock bottom gym deals and signed up for a year at Gold’s with the intention of getting back to “normal” size via Body Pump. It was a random purchase of Muscle & Fitness Hers that ignited the fire. I not only realized that muscular women are sexier than waify chicks I discovered that this is also a sport. There was no looking back after that. I was eating clean and hitting the weights daily.

Q: Was training something you picked up fairly easy? How long before you started to see results?
A: I picked it up pretty quick. I was no newbie to the gym. We had just become estranged over the years. I started dropping pounds pretty quick. I have a naturally fast metabolism and come from genetically lean stock. When I started carb cycling for contest prep last year I went from 11% body fat to 8% body fat in about 3 weeks. It is a blessing and a curse. Although I lean out to single digit body fat levels with minimal effort, gaining muscle is very difficult for me. The eating part was pretty easy (carb cycling was a big adjustment). I never had a big sweet tooth and my former husband was a chef so I was no stranger to fresh quality veggies and lean meats. But, as a southern girl, I do miss deep fried things. And I love salt but once the doctor said “hypertension” I kicked it to the curb.

Q: What made you decide to compete for the first time?
A: That random magazine purchase. I picked up a magazine to look for workouts and clean eating recipes. I was skipping over the ads (which is half the magazine these days) until I came across a Nutrex ad with Larissa Reis. I wanted to look like that. On the opposite page was a photo of Jessica Paxson Putnam and their photos noted that they were IFBB pros. At that point I thought my days of participating in sports were over due to my surgery so I was very excited to discover that getting fit was a sport.

Q: Is competing something your family and friends supported?
A: For the most part yes. I had a few snickers and most still have no idea what it is so I am constantly explaining that I am not a female bodybuilder. My kids and boyfriend are super supportive. They question when I don’t do to the gym and they always double check with me on dinner so they know whether they need to add or omit something from my food. They do get huffy about my supplement table in the kitchen and my empty Muscle Gel packets all over my car.

Q: Was competing what you expected or did anything surprise you about it?
A: It wasn’t as uptight and rigid as I thought it would be. Everyone is friendly and supportive for the most part. There is always that one salty girl in the bunch but I ignore people like that. As a black woman I was a bit concerned about the whole tanning thing but other than it getting on every damn thing it wasn’t that bad.

Q: Can you share your contest history.
A: Mine is short. I did the Brandywine Cup last year. I placed 2nd in Class C and 4th in Masters. I was going to compete at Nationals but I didn’t feel ready. My body needs more mass. I will hit the stage again on March 31st in NYC. I planned on applying for the Arnold but I recently changed jobs so I couldn’t get the time off L I do have about 5 shows planned for this year. I have spent some time lifting and working on my quads. My right quad was harder to build due the nature of my surgery. I was concerned about it so I focused on that the last few months.

Q: As far as body parts, what do you feel is your best one?
A: Abs. Hands down. And I now see veins in my abs. My kids think I am crazy for being excited about that. Part of my love for the abs is vanity. I have never in my 39 years had flat abs let alone a 6 pack. Seeing it after having 2 kids is pretty awesome.

Q: Do you have a part you most like to train or favorite exercise?
A: I like training shoulders and back. Favorite exercise would have to be bicep curls.

Q: What is your normal training routine and diet like and how do you alter it for contest prep?
A: I don’t really have a routine. I keep track of what part(s) I train each day and how much cardio I do and make adjustments as needed. I do try to hit the gym daily. I get bored easily so I have to switch things up often. That said, I recently started Crossfit. I HATE cardio and I have always wanted to try it so I gave it a shot. It is now part of my routine. I am a newbie so I can’t always do the WOD but I do Oly lifting twice a week and the WOD’s are my cardio. Contrary to what people think, Crossfit is not just rounds of exercises for time. I am doing lifts I have NEVER tried. I am doing overhead squats, snatches and learning to perfect my form on back squats so I can go ass to grass with more weight. I can see the difference in my quads and hammies. Diet wise I eat clean in the off season. Not a lot of cheat meals. I always feel guilty about it. That said, with the Crossfit came Paleo (they asked so I tried it). It was hard giving up the oatmeal but I did it. Turns out it was the Greek Yogurt I couldn’t kick so I am what they call Lacto-Paleo. I don’t buy into the reasoning behind eating Paleo but I like it and the recipes are fantastic! I am currently in contest prep so I am carb cycling for the next few weeks. I will go to very low carb about 6-8 weeks out. I monitor my protein and fat intake and the dairy will be gone in about a week. Drink a gallon of water per day and try to eat every 3 hours.

Q: When someone sees your physique or hears you compete for the first time, what is the most common reaction? More positive or negative?
A: The common response from strangers is “you do what now?” Family and friends seem to think that I eat nothing but salad and supplements.

Q: When they see it that first time, what is the one question or comment you are most sick of hearing?
A: “Don’t you have to spend like 2 hours a day in the gym?” Why do people think that? I hear it a lot.

Q: What is the biggest misconception about women who train and compete or the one thing you wish people understood?
A: That we all take “something” to get that muscular. I am not even that big and I have overheard comments about me taking roids. Everyone has muscle. It is just hiding under bodyfat. People also think that you have to be on some awful bland diet eating like a bird. We just eat clean and healthy. I encourage everyone I talk to eat clean regardless of their workout routine. It’s just good for you. I find this especially important as a women of color from a low income background. Black families have HORRIBLE diets and HORRIBLE health. Most do not have health insurance so we are just digging our own grave. There is a misconception that you can’t eat healthy on a limited income. I am not rich. Hell I am broke half the time. I just make an effort to make better food choices for my family. You may not be able to shop at Whole Foods (who the hell can) or buy grass fed beef BUT you can make the choice to not buy chips, candy, snack cakes and soda and you can bake your chicken instead of frying it.

Q: What is the best and worst part of training for you?
A: The best part is watching the gains happen. I love to take progress pics to see where I have improved. The worst part is the pain. I have osteoarthritis in my knees and it will only get worse so there are days when working my lower body is excruciating. My knees are stronger but the constant grinding of my patella against bone is awful. There have been days when I couldn’t do certain exercises because of the pain.

Q: Do you have any favorite competitors or any you admire?
A: Larissa Reis is my idol. I also love Emily Stirling. She coached me for my first competition. She is a WBFF figure pro and an absolutely amazing lady. Love, love, love her.

Q: Do you have a favorite cheat food?
A: Beer. Not really food. I have always been a beer girl so if I am not prepping and a game is on, beer will happen.

Q: If another woman told you she wanted to start training, what is the one piece of advice you would most want to give her?
A: Focus on you. Even the best of friends do not understand why we do this. People do not always mean to discourage you but they constantly offer to take you out to dinner or invite you to party and if you are not focused, you will give in to whatever your said weakness is. This is something you have to want 110%. You can’t half ass it. You have to learn to tell friends and family no and to workout when you don’t feel like it and to eat boiled chicken and asparagus while your family enjoys lasagna and garlic bread. It is like anything else in life, you have to make sacrifices to reach your goal. But as long as you focus on you and do it for you, it will be worth it.

Q: Do you think its becoming more common for women to use the weights as opposed to just doing cardio and things?
A: Not really. Women still think that weights = She Hulk and they feel more comfortable in a step class full of ladies then in the weight room. The few women I do see at the gym using weights are doing bicep curls with 2lb dumbbells for 1 set of 20 reps and then spending 20 minutes on every variation of crunch/sit up they can think of and 50 minutes at a steady pace on the elliptical while reading Marie Claire. While I am a big believer in getting up and moving and staying active there comes a point where the movement is not helping you reach your goal. Your body needs to be challenged and I see too many women complaining about no results but they refuse to change what they are doing. If you wanna look sexy in a bikini, you gotta get sweaty in the weight room.

Q: Outside of training, any other hobbies or activities you enjoy?
A: Well, I have kids so a lot of my time is spent playing taxi driver and maid. I love museums and history. I live near DC so my ideal day is hitting the Smithsonian museums or walking along the Mall in the spring. As a sports fan I also take in as many games as possible at M&T Bank and Camden Yards. In the house you will find me watching Law & Order, Hoarders or any horror movie that is on TV at any given moment.

Q: Can you describe a typical day in the life of Cheryl Jackson.
A: Mornings during the week is getting kids to school and getting ready for work. Post work I pick up my youngest from practice (she plays sports year round), then off to the gym or Crossfit. Then home, cleaning, eating, shower, bed not necessarily in that order. Weekends vary depending on what the kids have going on and what needs to be done in the house. Essentially I live a mom life and love every minute of it.

Q: Describe Cheryl Jackson in five words.
A: Potty mouth, determined, stubborn, passionate and loyal

Q: What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
A: I am a metal head. Favorite band is Otep. My love of this band is borderline obsessive. Also love Cradle of Filth, Machine Head, Arch Enemy, Pantera and Dimmu Borgir and many many more. The tat on my back is actually the album cover from the Dimmu Bogir album ‘In Sorte Diaboli’. When it is done it will cover 80% of my back. I am also a Republican. Now that’s 2 things.

Q: Any set plans for the near future as far as competing or anything else?
A: I plan on hitting quite a few shows this year. I hope to get my pro card but I do it more for the love of the stage then the win. I am also studying to get my PT certification. I don’t want to do it full time but the knowledge is helpful and I love helping others out with nutrition and training so I would like to say I am qualified to give advice and assistance.

Q: Anything you want to take this opportunity to plug or promote?
A: CROSSFIT!!!! Crossfit gets a bad rap in the bodybuilding community. No, you cannot do Crossfit and get a physique like Phil Heath BUT Crossfit is great cardio, increases your endurance and if you ever wanted to work on and/or improve your Oly lifts, Crossfit will make that happen. I never went ass to grass in a barbell squat until I started Crossfit. I never did double unders for cardio until Crossfit and I never EVER did snatches until I did Crossfit. Don’t knock it till ya try it ;)

Q: Are you looking for sponsors? If so how can they reach you and what are they getting in Cheryl Jackson the athlete and competitor?
A: Indeed. I am aware that aesthetically I am not like most competitors. I have nongirly tats, I am not uber girly and I can be a bit opinionated. BUT I live this. It is what I do and who I am. When I talk to people about fitness I am passionate and sincere and honest and more importantly, if I believe in someone or something be it a supplement, clothing or a person, I can “sell” with no BS required. I will not support something that I do not believe in. I love this industry because it allowed me to discover something in myself that I did not know existed and I would love the opportunity to share it with others by representing a company that supports this lifestyle be it a protein powder that works as promised or a line of clothing that provides quality gear. You can contact me at crjackson34@gmail.com. I am also on Twitter: @cher_jizzle and Facebook: Cheryl Buffness Jackson.

Q: Cheryl, again, I thank you for taking the time to do this. Any last words before you go
A: Lift heavy or go home.

Spotlight Interview: Ashley Cummins

2012-01-11T15:17:00.001-08:00

Ashley Cummins had an incredible amateur career. In fact she was according to many, the best amateur in the sport at the time. She turned pro and continued her winning ways in her first pro fight. On January 28th she takes on her next challenge in Stephanie Frausto at NAAFS Combat Challenge 18. Make sure you watch this one, it could be the show stealer.

Q: Can you start out by talking about how you got started in the sport?
A: I started doing Tae Kwon Do when I was five. In middle school I anted to start kickboxing but my mom wouldn't let me, she didn't want me to get hurt. So I just continued to do Tae Kwon Do and soccer. When I played soccer I always got kicked out of games for fighting. I always knew I wanted to be a fighter, and when I became a freshman in college I knew my parents couldn't stop me so I started training in Mixed Martial Arts.

Q: You were a very accomplished amateur, how did you know when you were ready to turn pro?
A: It was more my coaches decision. I was never like "now I want to turn pro". I have been with my coach for five years, I love him and trust him a hundred percent. I just left it up to him, when he thought I was ready I was going to. After my eighth amateur fight he was like "you are ready".

Q: Were you any extra nervous for the first pro fight?
A: Yeah, I think I had that extra nerves that I didn't have for my previous amateur fights. It was a tough fight, I fought a girl who had more experience than me. It was the toughest fight I ever had and I came out victorious. It was a good learning experience, I learned a lot from that fight.

Q: You are fighting Stephanie Frausto in a couple weeks. What do you know about her?
A: Not much. I don't think she has fought in a year. But even though she hasn't fought she has still been training hard in the gym. I don't know much about her, I just go into every fight the same. I work my butt off for every fight, and go in prepared standing and on the ground.

Q: Does it being the first female fight in West Virginia carry any significance to you?
A: Yeah, its awesome. I think Stephanie and I will put on a great show for West Virginia and hopefuly after they will see female MMA is fun to watch and they have more female fights.

Q: You said you don't know much about her, but from what you do know, what would you say is your biggest advantage?
A: I think I will probably be stronger than her just cause I cut a lot of weight for fights and I think she doesn't cut as much as I do. So I will go in stronger and bigger.

Q: Do you expect her to have a specific game plan for you?
A: You know, when girls go against me I really don't know what they think. I consider myself a well rounded fighter. I don't specialize in stand-up, Jiu-Jitsu or I wasn't a college wrestler. I train everything so I am sure she is like me in that we go in well prepared and wherever the fight goes we will be ready for it?

Q: Is their one key for you to win this fight?
A: I think just remain aggressive and have better cardio is always the key to winning any fight.

Q: Do you have a prediction on how it ends?
A: I don't know how it is gonna end, but it will end with my hand raised.

Q: There has been a lot of hype around you. When you fight do you feel pressure to live up to it?
A: Yeah, I mean, I felt a lot of pressure as an amateur. I was ranked number one in the world and felt I had to keep that up. As a pro I feel a little less pressure cause I think everything starts over. But I know people still have their eyes on me and look at me like "how is she gonna do as a pro", but I think its less now than when I was an amateur.

Q: When the fight was announced I know some Ohio female fighters, where NAAFS is mainly located, were excited and planned to come to watch the fight. Does that mean anything to you that some of the newer and younger fighters are excited to see you in person?
A: That's awesome. Its the first I heard that. I think having other females in the crowd cheering for Stephanie and I will push us harder and make us put on a good show. After the fight I would like to meet and hang out with everyone.

Q: Assuming you win, any idea what you want to do next, or are you just focused on this?
A: Right now my focus is on this fight. I have had offers for February and march, but I leave that to my coach and focus on this. My goal has always been to be a professional fighter, and now that I am, my goal is to see how far I can go.

Q: Would the long term goal be Bellator or Strikeforce?
A: Yeah definitely. I would love to get on a big show like that. Another goal is to be ranked in the top ten in my weight class. Right now I am just enjoying the experience of being a professional athlete.

Q: Before we finish, anyone you want to thank or mention?
A: I want to thank my coaches at St. Charles MMA, all my teammates for pushing me, Barb Honchak, she helps me train a lot. I want to thank my sponsors Tussle, Lira Bros Clothing, Battle Ready Strength and Conditioning and Sport Fight League.

Kristi Haglund-Parrotte Interview

2012-01-09T13:54:00.000-08:00

Q: First, Kristi, I want to thank you for taking the time to do this.
A: Thank you so much!! This is such an honor for me to do this interview.

Q: Can you start out by telling a little about yourself.
A: I am a 41 year old mother of 3 beautiful children ages 18, 13 and 11 and have been blessed to be married to my soulmate, and best friend. I am the most fit now than I have ever been. Getting to where I am today still seems like a dream. I was born and raised on a farm/ranch in Eastern MT and have been through many different challenges in my life. One of which being born with a 2 inch leg length discrepancy, having to wear special orthotics for most of my childhood years, and pushing through 5 surgical procedures for corrections helped me to realize that if you have goals and dreams you can do anything in life. There are so many people out there that were worse off, children born without limbs or children that could not walk. I had my legs, I could walk.. I had a lot to be thankful for and I still do. Not only do I want to show my children that our tomorrows are created by what we dream today but I also want to show all women out there that their dreams and goals can be attained. It doesn’t matter if you are 40 or 50 or 60. Age is not a factor for fitness and health.

Q: Before the gym were you an especially athletic person? Play any sports or anything?
A: I was actually very shy and kept to myself.. Not real athletic at all.

Q: What initially led you into the gym?
A: My handsome Australian husband and I opened a Physical Therapy Clinic in 2000 and in 2005 he decided he wanted to spread his wings and open a Fitness Center along with it. We have always supported each other in everything that we want to venture out and do, so we did just that. It was very stressful and I found I needed some “me” time and the way I could do that was to start my day getting into the gym to clear my thoughts and to plan and dream for the future.

Q: Was training something you picked up fairly easy? How long before you started to see results?
A: Training was something that I started to love! I found it necessary to start my day and wanted to start helping others so 3 years ago I went through a Certified Personal Training course so I could do some training at our gym. It took over a year to start seeing results in myself and it wasn’t until I put the nutrition into play that everything really started to come together.

Q: What made you decide to compete for the first time?
A: I have this plaque hanging in my house.. it says “We Create our Tomorrows by What We Dream Today”.. This is something I have always put into my children's heads. I have always encouraged them to reach for the stars and to never give up no matter what it was in life because nothing is impossible, so competing for me was my way of showing my kids that you can do anything if you just try and to never give up until you have grabbed the star you have been reaching for.

Q: Is competing something your family and friends supported?
A: My husband and my kids are my biggest fan group and support system. My parents on the other hand thought I was going through mid-life crisis (laughing).

Q: Was competing what you expected or did anything surprise you about it?
A: When I decided I wanted to compete, I wanted to make sure I gave it 110%. Growing up on a farm my Dad always said if you are going to do something do it right and give it your all. In order to do that I felt like I needed some outside training and that is when I came across who I think is obviously the world’s best and that is Danny Johnson from Las Vegas. She made the process fun, and exciting. I started to see changes in my body that I did not think were possible and when it came competition day I was so nervous I was shaking in my shoes, but she still managed to make me laugh. I wont ever forget her standing on the opposite side of the stage giving me the don’t ***k up face that you cant help but smile at!!! She is what makes me want to keep competing. She wanted me to have an amazing 1st experience and for that I will always be grateful.

Q: Can you share your contest history.
A: I have competed once in the Las Vegas Classic in November 2011 and exceeded past my expectations and with Danny's help am hoping to compete at the Emerald Cup in April 2012!!

Q: As far as body parts, what do you feel is your best one?
A: Definitely my shoulders and arms. I love training them and they seem to be the first part of my body that I see definite progression with .

Q: Do you have a part you most like to train or favorite exercise?
A: Shoulder are the definite favorite. My favorite shoulder exercise would have to be presses and lateral raises to make the caps really pop!!

Q: What is your normal training routine and diet like and how do you alter it for contest prep?
A: I do strength training with free weights four days a week for about 90 minutes and lift heavier during pre-contest and closer to contest time vary the weight and reps to get the lean muscle. My cardio varies depending on where my fat loss needs to be. As far as diet during non-contest months my calories and macros are different so I can put muscle on and then closer to contest lean out. Danny Johnson with “No Excuses” Fitness helps keep me right on track!!

Q: When someone sees your physique or hears you compete for the first time, what is the most common reaction? More positive or negative?
A: I get such a positive response from people. The support has been phenomenal. Everyone of course wants to know how it is done and wonder how on earth someone with my busy lifestyle can accomplish such goals. I am a mother of 3, I own a Physical Therapy Clinic, a Fitness Center and am Broker in a Real Estate Firm, but fitness is a lifestyle, it has become my time to reflect on myself and my goals. It is the cornerstone of who I am.. so when they ask “how do I get there” I always tell them that anyone can have the gift of fitness by believing in themselves and having self-determination and motivation.

Q: When they see it that first time, what is the one question or comment you are most sick of hearing?
A: Is that really you???

Q: What is the biggest misconception about women who train and compete or the one thing you wish people understood?
A: I think most people think that working out as hard as we do and are as dedicated as we are to our eating and diet think that we have an obsession with the sport or our bodies. They think we are out of the normal, but for me is my normal. This has become who I am and what I stand for. I have learned so much about myself both inside and out. People tend to underestimate the work that goes into preparing for a show. Not only are you working your body, but you are working your mind. You have to have your head in it to succeed, so to have people understand this, to have them understand that it is more than just coming to the gym everyday hopping on a piece or cardio equipment or lifting a few dumbbells. Fitness is a lifestyle and it is one that I dedicate my mind and body to 110% and enjoy every minute of it. “ You never know how strong you are until strong is the only choice you have”

Q: What is the best and worst part of training for you?
A: I love to see how far I can push myself to get me where I need to be, as far as the worst.. there are no worsts.. training for me is my release in life and without it I definitely could not be where I am today.

Q: Do you have any favorite competitors or any you admire?
A: Definitely Danny Johnson. She has come so far and done good for so many, and for her the giving never stops. She is one of the truest, kindest hearted people that I have ever met.

Q: Do you have a favorite cheat food?
A: My favorite cheat food is definitely Mussels with lots of white bread to dunk in the juices and a few glasses of a nice Australian white wine!!

Q: If another woman told you she wanted to start training, what is the one piece of advice you would most want to give her?
A: Keep going, never give up. Strive to achieve because with hard work and dedication anything is possible. One of my favorite quotes is by Harriet Tubman..” Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.”

Q: Do you think its becoming more common for women to use the weights as opposed to just doing cardio and things?
A: Definitely!! It just takes a few times to get them into the weight room and they are addicted. They start to see changes that you don’t normally see with just doing cardio.

Q: Outside of training, any other hobbies or activities you enjoy?
A: I have 3 beautiful children so spending time with them and my husband, camping, hiking or just sitting around the table playing a board game are my favorite activities. It is all about making a memory, putting it in my pocket and never forgetting that special moment.

Q: Can you describe a typical day in the life of Kristi Haglund-Parrotte.
A: I get up at 5AM eat my breakfast, get my kids’ breakfast ready for them and school lunches set out , head to the gym for my workout and then back home by 7:30 before my beautiful 3 children get on the school bus and I can see them off to school. The early morning time is my time. By 9:30 AM I am off to work, some days it is the real estate office other days, it is the Fitness Center or Physical Therapy Clinic. Just depends on the day !! Keeping myself organized keeps me sane! I eat every 2-3 hours, finish my workday, home by 5 or 5:30 , make dinner, have some family time and bed by 9!

Q: Describe Kristi Haglund-Parrotte in five words.
A: Caring, Loyal, hardworking, dedicated, trustworthy

Q: What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
A: I am very shy!!

Q: Any set plans for the near future as far as competing or anything else?
A: I am Mrs Havre America 2012 and am in the Mrs Montana Pageant in March and am working towards the Emerald Cup in 2012 ! Reaching for the stars!

Q: Anything you want to take this opportunity to plug or promote?
A: Clean eating is key. Nutrition is a large part of being able to succeed. It took me a long time to learn this, but now that I have put this into a daily lifestyle I have seen changes in my body that I never thought possible.
The other thing would be to lead by example. Not only do I want to show my children that our tomorrows are created by what we dream today but I also want to show all women out there that their dreams and goals can be attained. It doesn’t matter if you are 40 or 50 or 60. Age is not a factor for fitness and health.
Remembering what your goals are and know NOTHING is out of reach as long as you give it your all!!

Q: Are you looking for sponsors? If so how can they reach you and what are they getting in Kristi Haglund-Parrotte the athlete and competitor?
A: Yes!! I would be so honored to be sponsored!! Competing has become something that I definitely want to keep doing and being sponsored would help make this dream a reality! I can be reached at klparrotte@gmail.com They would be getting an athlete and competitor that would be giving 110% all of the time no questions asked! I want to be an inspiration to others and show them the sky is the limit and to remember that they have within them that same passion and strength it takes to change the world they just need to find it!

Q: Kristi, again, I thank you for taking the time to do this. ANY last words before you go?
A: Thank You !! I appreciate the opportunity you have given me! It truly show that all things are possible if YOU just believe.

Justine Moore Interview

2012-01-09T13:28:00.000-08:00

Q: First, Justine, I want to thank you for taking the time to do this.

Q: Can you start out by telling a little about yourself.
A: I grew up in a suburb of Wisconsin and had a wonderful childhood. My family is extremely important to me- I have one older brother, and my Mom & Dad are my role models and my best friends.

Q: Before the gym were you an especially athletic person? Play any sports or anything?
A: I was far from athletic growing up! I was overweight as a kid so as a teenager I made sure I stayed active and watched my diet. I was in dance and also did a lot of running, but team sports were never my thing.

Q: What initially led you into the gym?
A: I gained a lot of weight my freshman year of college so I that’s when I started going to the gym regularly.

Q: Was training something you picked up fairly easy? How long before you started to see results?
A: I’ve been lifting weights for about four years now and I still constantly pick up new things. But training and dieting for shows is something that feels very natural for me... I thrive with discipline and I love my time in the gym with my headphones on. Its my therapy!
I started seeing results within about a month of training and the results have never stopped. That’s what I love about fitness; you just keep getting better and better.

Q: What made you decide to compete for the first time?
A: As a personal trainer I wanted to take my body to the next level. I wanted that fitness-model body that would make people think “Wow, I want to train with HER!”

Q: Is competing something your family and friends supported?
A: Initially my family and friends didn’t really understand it or hoped it was a temporary phase. However once they realized how important competing was to me, and that I wanted to make a career out of fitness everyone was very supportive. I’ve also learned a lot along the way and I’ve gotten much better at keeping a balance between my training and a social life

Q: Was competing what you expected or did anything surprise you about it?
A: The biggest surprise was that the toughest part of competing was NOT the training... Its not physical at all. The toughest part of competing is the mental aspect of it. Dieting and training for a show can feel very lonely and isolating at times. It helps to have a good support system of people who support you and encourage you to keep going.

Q: Can you share your contest history.
A:
*2011 NPC Eastern USA's- 3rd Place Bikini B Class
*2011 NPC East Coast- 2nd Place Bikini B Class
*2011 NPC Metropolitan- 10th Place Bikini B Class
*2010 INBF Wisconsin- 8th Place Figure Short Class
*2010 INBF Central- 6th Place Figure Short Class

Q: As far as body parts, what do you feel is your best one?
A: I get a lot of compliments on my tiny waistline. When I’m in full competition prep mode my waist comes down to 22 inches. I am also very proud of my glutes... they’ve come a long way, but are still my work-in-progress!

Q: Do you have a part you most like to train or favorite exercise?
A: I like training my glutes and shoulders the best. I also love deadlifting.

Q: When someone sees your physique or hears you compete for the first time, what is the most common reaction? More positive or negative?
A: Mostly all positive reactions. Lots of people say “Ooh, will you train me?” I bartend at a nightclub, and when I was at work recently a guy said to me “Do you LIVE a the gym?” I said “Yes, I do.” I took that as the highest form of a compliment.

Q: When they see it that first time, what is the one question or comment you are most sick of hearing?
A: I hate when people suggest that I starve myself or barely eat. Its so naive and ignorant... I eat 6-7 meals, not snacks, MEALS every day. I eat more than most of the men I know! I am far from starving myself!

Q: What is the biggest misconception about women who train and compete or the one thing you wish people understood?
A: The misconception that bothers me the most is the idea that bikini competitors don’t train as hard as other athletes. For anyone who thinks this, I challenge you to keep up with me or any of my fellow Team Bombshell bikini athletes! We spend hours every day doing intense cardio, strenuous lifting and the dreaded plyometrics... Not to mention a bikini competitors diet must be immaculate to produce the desired look. The addition of the Bikini Division may have introduced a more “natural look” to the sport, but make no mistake: getting the female body tight and conditioned enough for the stage without looking too lean, skinny or muscular is not an easy task!

Q: What is the best and worst part of training for you?
A: The worst part of training is having to stick to my diet regardless of what comes up- parties, weddings, holidays, etc. I’ve had to diet straight through my past two birthdays due to April competitions in 2010 and 2011... I ate my cod fish, sweet potato and asparagus... no cake! This year I am excited to be competing on my birthday- which means I can have cake, and hopefully a new trophy as well!
The best part of training is the results! The feeling of looking at your body and LOVING what you see is priceless.

Q: Do you have any favorite competitors or any you admire?
A: IFBB Pro Marcus Haley, WNBF Pro Brenda Rahe, and IFBB Pro Jaime Baird. These competitors are not only incredible athletes, but incredible people, and had a positive impact on me and my career.

Q:Do you have a favorite cheat food?
A: Just one? LOL. I love Mexican food, sushi, and DESSERT... especially anything with chocolate!

Q: If another woman told you she wanted to start training, what is the one piece of advice you would most want to give her?
A: I tell women sometimes to “lift like a man”... Don’t be afraid to use heavy weight and train ALL the muscle groups evenly- legs, back, chest, shoulders, arms, and core. Don’t worry about getting “bulky,” females don’t have the same hormones as men so when we lift weights it sculpt toned, feminine muscle and curves-- not thick, bulky muscle mass.

Q: Do you think its becoming more common for women to use the weights as opposed to just doing cardio and things?
A: Yes! I think there is so much more information out there today for women about weight training and female fitness. I love it when I see another woman in the weight room walking around confidently!

Q: Outside of training, any other hobbies or activities you enjoy?
A: I love to travel and go new places. I also love going out for dinner and watching movies, and spending time with my fiancé, family, friends, and my two kittens I rescued: Arnold & Olympia!

Q: Can you describe a typical day in the life of Justine Moore.
A; I wake up at 7AM and do morning cardio, usually at home on my treadmill. Then I eat my first meal while checking emails, Facebook and Twitter. After breakfast I pack up my gym bag and go to the gym to lift weights. All afternoon and evening I either train clients or go do a MET-Rx demo in the NYC/ Long Island area. When I get home I wash the dishes (lots of tupperware from eating my meals on-the-go), check emails again, and write diets and programs for online clients. From 9-11PM I spend time with my fiancé before its LIGHTS OUT at 11PM. My life gets very hectic at times, so I keep a weekly planner and plan out my day, hour-by-hour to make sure everything gets done!

Q: Describe Justine Moore in five words.
A: Driven, positive, ambitious, hard-working, passionate.

Q: What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
A: I was NOT athletic in any way, shape or form growing up. In grade school I was the chubby kid, always picked last for team sports. I wish I could go back in time and show my younger self the trophies I’ve earned!

Q: Any set plans for the near future as far as competing or anything else?
A: My next competition is the 2012 NPC Metropolitan on March 31st (my birthday!) in New York City. I am also gearing up to compete at Nationals for the first time this year.

Q: Anything you want to take this opportunity to plug or promote?
A: No matter what your fitness goals, I have the knowledge and experience to take your body to the next level! I train clients both in person and online through 100% customized nutrition, strength, cardio and supplement plans. I am extremely passionate about what I do, and dedicate myself fully to each and every one of my clients. You can trust with me you are in good hands!
Lots of people know what they want (to lose weight, to tone up, to compete, etc) but they don’t know how to go about it. Hiring a coach or a trainer is an invaluable investment that you will not regret. I myself have invested in 5 different diet coaches and trainers over the years, and have learned so much from each one of them. So if you are serious about your goals do not hesitate to contact me today at: Justine.Fitness@gmail.com.
Also for lots of fitness tips, recipes and motivation please “Like” my Facebook Fan Page and follow me in 2012.

Q: Are you looking for sponsors? If so what are they getting in Justine Moore the athlete and competitor?
A: Absolutely. Competing is a very costly sport... I am always looking for different types of sponsorship. I am a hard-working, positive individual with the knowledge, credentials, experience and personality to help any company grow and prosper. I deal with so many people on a daily basis who ask me for fitness advice, so I have a lot of opportunities to promote the companies, products and services I believe in!

Q: Justine, again, I thank you for taking the time to do this. Any last words before you go?
A: Thank you so much for asking me to be a featured athlete on your page! I appreciate the opportunity to be able to share my story and experiences with others!

Spotlight Interview: Stephanie Frausto

2012-01-08T18:44:00.001-08:00

Following in her sisters footsteps, Stephanie Frausto quickly jumped into MMA. While owning a modest record, she has improved in each fight, including a split decision loss to Paulina Ramirez, a decision that was highly questionable. On January 28th she will step into the cage with Ashley Cummins in what should be an exciting fight. This is an opportunity for Stephanie to show that she too is a skilled fighter like her sister with a very bright future in the sport.

Q: Can you start out by talking about how you got started in the sport?
A: Well I was with my sister talking about how she wanted to start doing MMA. We watched some of Cyborg's fights and then a couple weeks later she took me to a gym in Fresno. I started training in Jiu-Jitsu there and trying out Muay Thai. After that they tried to get me a few sparring matches with people from other teams. Then some girl from our team was supposed to fight but ended up getting hurt and they had me fight instead and it ended up being a pro match. So I started fighting then. Pretty much my sister influenced me. She had me doing sports since I was little. She put me in cross country to help loose weight. Then I followed in her foot steps in the MMA world.

Q: You mentioned Zoila, she is recognized as one of the pound for pound best in the sport. How much does it help you as a fighter to have someone at that level so close to you?
A: It has helped me a lot in my career. Her being there and supporting me in my fights. She gives me a lot of advice on techniques and combinations. Its helped me through everything.

Q: Its been awhile since your last fight, a split decision loss to Paulina Ramirez. From that fight till now, how are you a better fighter?
A: Well since then, I had been going from gym to gym. So I was trying to focus on being in one place before I fought again. My sister got married and we moved to Ohio and I stared at Jorge Gurgel MMA. I have been there for seven or eight months, working a lot on my Jiu-Jitsu. Two of my fights I lost by submission so I decided to start working on my Jiu-Jitsu more and that part of my game has improved and my striking has as well.

Q: You are fighting Ashley Cummins later this month. What do you know about her?
A: I know she has a really good amateur record and is 1-0 and is well known.

Q: Would you call her your toughest opponent to date?
A: I think she is one of the toughest, but I like the challenge.

Q: This is the first Pro female fight in West Virginia. Does that mean anything to you or any significance?
A: Yeah! It is an honor to be the first sanctioned fight in West Virginia.

Q: Do you have a prediction on how it ends?
A: No! Anything can happen.

Q: How does a win over her help you in your career?
A: It would be a big win for me to start my career again.

Q: Assuming you win, any idea what you want next or are you just focused on this?
A: I am just focused on this fight right now. Then we will find out what happens next.

Q: With your last name, do you think it puts a target on your head, where people think its an extra big win if they beat you?
A: I don't think so. Actually it has been harder for me to find fights because of my last name. So all my fights will be tough ones.

Q: Is the future goal to fight with Bellator or Strikeforce or anything?
A: Definitely I would like to fight for Bellator again. I would like to have a better fight than the last one.

Q: Before we finish, anyone you want to thank?
A: I want to thank my coaches, especially Jorge Gurgel and Jon Stutzman, my sister for helping me through camps and motivating me. My strength and conditioning coach Mike Ferguson, and all my teammates who help me through the pro practices.

Lexi Berriman Interview

2012-01-05T11:19:00.000-08:00

Q:First, Lexi, I want to thank you for taking the time to do this.
A; Thank you so much... The pleasure really is all mine! It's an honor to be recognized.

Q: Can you start out by telling a little about yourself.
A: Yes of course. I am a good ol farm girl from Michigan born out of Detroit. I have 2 sisters and a brother. I am the youngest out of the children. I moved to Wyoming for a couple years, but then decided that wasn't the place for me. I moved to Las Vegas in 2008, and although I miss the trees and water Vegas has been very good to me!

Q: Before the gym were you an especially athletic person? Play any sports or
anything?
A; I always wanted to be an "athlete", but I homeschooled from 7th grade on...
Doing so kept me from school activities that I would have been interested in, and my
asthma made it hard to compete...So no typical sports for me. I did however love fight movies and used to play fight "martial arts" with my brother as a kid which led me to my love for Tae Kwon Do. I trained and competed for 10 years and made it to my 2nd degree black belt and many trophies ;)

Q: What initially led you into the gym?
A: Well.. Being that I homeschooled I would get extremely bored.... And eat... And sleep til no end... So that needed to change. My oldest sister Sheri would come home from college and wake me up at 4/5 am to do "Kathy Smith" workout videos.. Ugh I hated it but i loved my sister visiting I would do anything to spend time with her. So when she left I would fill my time with running laps around my circle drive and step up on tree stumps pretending I was doing a video. By the time I could drive at 15 I spotted a 2 week free membership in the paper for the gym, and decided to try it. Then I loved it so much I saved my babysitting money and paid for a whole year in cash so I could come as much as I wanted!

Q: Was training something you picked up fairly easy? How long before you started to
see results?
A: I was so lucky to have an old school bodybuilder (Larry Ross) take me under his wing in just my first couple weeks of joining the gym... He got me lifting heavy with the big boys at 15 years old... I remember him saying "girl you start young and by the time your 30 your gonna be looking like your 20"... I was hard working in the gym so I saw results quick. Took my skinny 5'8 117lb frame to 125-130 in just a year.

Q: What made you decide to compete for the first time?
A: I was 18 when I did a "body building" show in Michigan because Larry challenged
me to do so, and I won 1st place... Never competed again...
When I moved to Vegas I joined 24hour fitness and starts training for them. I said to my district manager at a MMA fight for my friend " hey boss I'm turning 30- you should train me for a competition" he said in response " you got it, but I only train winners" haha no pressure right! So that next week he put me on a 12 week program and I dropped 25 lbs and won 1st place in my first NPC Figure show at the Las Vegas Classic Nov 6,2010.

Q: Is competing something your family and friends supported?
A: My co workers became such a huge support system for me during this. I am the type to tell everyone what I'm doing so I can be held accountable. So it went from co-workers at both jobs to my teachers at UNLV to the members at my gym all keeping tabs on me!

Q: Was competing what you expected or did anything surprise you about it?
A: I only wanted to compete to say I did it because I was turning 30. I was so surprised that I won, and I was surprised how much I enjoyed it!

Q: Can you share your contest history.
A: I am new to the circuit, but here it goes
*Las vegas classic 11/6/10 1st place
*Emerald cup 4/16/11 2nd place
*Las vegas USA's 7/30/11 6th place
*Tournament of champions 9/10/11 1st place figure.

Q: As far as body parts, what do you feel is your best one?
A: I love my back

Q: Do you have a part you most like to train?
A: I love to train legs and back because I'm a strong girl ;)

Q: What is your normal training routine and diet like and how do you alter it for
contest prep?
A: Because I work at a gym and I work so much between 2 jobs... I need to fit it in where I can and pack my lunches everyday. Contest it's all business, and I come first for 12 weeks;)

Q: When someone sees your physique or hears you compete for the first time, what
is the most common reaction? More positive or negative?
A: Usually they are surprised because I walk around in boy clothes most the time so you can't tell I'm in the shape I'm in, but they are always positive!

Q: When they see it that first time, what is the one question or comment you are
most sick of hearing?
A: I love hearing from everyone so I'm not sick of any questions, but more I laugh because they think that your born with the body... Most don't realize how much work goes behind the training.

Q: What is the biggest misconception about women who train and compete or the one
thing you wish people understood?
A: I wish people understood that 1st we don't all walk around at our stage weight... We are normal people that live to eat. I also wish the women wouldn't think we were
"big" because we lift heavy...because as I show my clients they're arms are
usually bigger then mine and they are lifting super light... It's all about diet!

Q: What is the best and worst part of training for you?
A: The best part for me is by far the results! I love seeing what I work so hard for. Worst is most def giving up my sugar... I adore anything sweet!

Q:Do you have any favorite competitors or any you admire?
A: Yes I do! I have always loved Alicia Marie, Monica Brandt, Tracey Greenwood, and Krissy Chin!

Q: Do you have a favorite cheat food?
A: Anything sugar... Ben & Jerry's oatmeal cookie chunk or s'mores is usually my first choice!

A: If another woman told you she wanted to start training, what is the one piece of
advice you would most want to give her?
A: Find a coach! Pick a date!

Q: Do you think its becoming more common for women to use the weights as opposed to
just doing cardio and things?
A: I sure hope so, but that's because I love muscle on a girl...

Q: Outside of training, any other hobbies or activities you enjoy?
A: Yes I love to hike, dance, MMA, rock climb (thanks to my friends that took me out to teach me), traveling is always fun!

Q: Can you describe a typical day in the life of Lexi Berriman.
A: Yes it's usually the same
4am up ready to work at gym
430am first client
530am my workout
630am breakfast
7am train more clients
930am snack
Noon cardio
1pm lunch
2pm nap
3-6pm train more clients
4pm snack
630pm work 2nd job
7pm sneak in dinner

Q: Describe Lexi Berriman in five words.
A: Hardworking, driven, determined, strong, positive ;)

Q: What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
A: That I love to eat as much as I do... I am a normal girl and I can out eat most boys ;)

Q: Any set plans for the near future as far as competing or anything else?
A: Yes it's gonna be a great year! I start again in May!

Q: Anything you want to take this opportunity to plug or promote?
A: Honestly I just wanna promote fitness and love helping people, so if you need help add me in Facebook Lexi Berriman, and just ask for your support in my training for 2012!

Q: Are you looking for sponsors?
A: I am looking for sponsors... Someone I can believe in because I am such a loyal and hardworking athlete I will do what u ask and I'm gonna succeed! If I believe in you- your gonna have a following! People listen when there is heart behind the person and what they say!

Q: Lexi, again, I thank you for taking the time to do this. Any last words before
you go?
A: I am really just so thankful for the opportunity and the interest, and again I just ask you keep your eye out for me because I'm not going anywhere. You'll be hearing from me a lot in 2012 if I have anything to do about it!

Laure Leckwold Interview

2012-01-05T10:30:00.000-08:00

Q: First, Laure, I want to thank you for taking the time to do this.
A: You are most welcome, thank you for giving me the opportunity to share my story!

Q: Can you start out by telling a little about yourself.
A: I am 42 year old, single with a 21 year old daughter. I am the oldest child of four and the only girl, so I grew up like one of the guys. I was born and raised in Oregon, spent four years in the Navy, and moved to Atlanta Georgia 20 years ago. I have a Bachelors degree in accounting and have been working in that field for nearly 20 years.

Q: Before the gym were you an especially athletic person? Play any sports or anything?
A: I ran track in high school, however from the time I got out of the Navy sport where not a part of my life. I loved being in the gym in high school and I can tell you that love is still an integral part of my life.

Q: What initially led you into the gym?
A: I had been going to the gym for several years prior to 2008 (when I finally got serious about my weight loss) and it was more of a social thing. At that time working with a trainer just seemed too far out of my financial budget. I had noticed a pattern of behavior, I was using food (and shopping) to deal with my stressful situations. In July 2008 I admitted that I am an emotional eater, I hired a trainer and started on the path to healthier life. Little did I know that my husband of 20 years was planning on leaving me (we are now divorced).

Q: Was training something you picked up fairly easy? How long before you started to see results?
A: I fell in love with strength training almost immediately. Working with a trainer gave me a good base to understand how important form was in my progress. When I first started working with the trainer I couldn’t even do a push up. Within four weeks I was seeing significant improvements in strength and I was down almost ten pounds.

Q: What made you decide to compete for the first time?
A: The trainer I worked with was a Nationally qualified figure competitor and I was fascinated at how she was able to sculpt her body. I had wanted to be a bodybuilder in high school, I looked up to Cory Everson and Rachel McLish in the late 80’s. I had revealed this desire to my trainer and she asked me if I wanted to give it a try. From there I stepped up my training and started on the path to competition prep.

Q: Is competing something your family and friends supported?
A: My daughter is a huge support and has even started helping me with the promotions aspect of being a figure competitor. My mother has accompanied me to my last two shows of 2011 and is a huge cheerleader. I lost my dad in June and one of my proudest moments of 2011 was seeing him in the audience at my first show of the season. I may not have won a trophy that day, but I did walk away the winner because he was there and so very proud of me. I feel like my dad has been watching over me this whole year!

Q: Was competing what you expected or did anything surprise you about it?
A: When I first got started I wasn’t sure what to expect. Learning to pose was way harder then I could have ever imagined. When I stepped on stage for the very first time and heard my friends calling my name, WOW is all I can say. I love being on stage, as nerve racking as it can be it is also one of the biggest highs I have ever had. There is nothing else that I do that compares.

Q: Can you share your contest history.
A:
*2010 – Battle At The River, Chattanooga TN, 6th in Figure novice class and 6th in masters class
*2010 – Knox Classic, Knoxville TN, 5th in Figure open class B and 3rd in Masters
*2011 – Anthony Steward Memorial, Dalton GA, 3rd in open
*2011 – Jr USA, Charleston SC, Figure class C
*2011 - Battle At The River, Chattanooga TN, 6th in Figure novice class and 6th in masters class
*2011 - Classic, Knoxville TN, 3rd in Figure open class B and 5th in Masters
*2011 – NPC Nationals, figure class C

Q: As far as body parts, what do you feel is your best one?
A: I feel like my back is my best body part, however I have worked very hard this year to make my glutes the best.

Q: Do you have a part you most like to train?
A: I LOVE training legs (focusing on glutes & hamstrings). I train legs heavy one day a week with a plyo workout on a second day.

Q: What is your normal training routine and diet like and how do you alter it for contest prep
A: I have a 6 day split most of the time. The last few weeks prior to competition my split is 7 days.
Day 1 – Back & Cardio
Day 2 – Plyo leg (field workout)
Day 3 – Chest & Abs
Day 4 – Heavy Legs
Day 5 – Shoulders, Abs, & Calves
Day 6 – Arms & Cardio
I work with a nutrition/training coach, Ruben Sandoval of Fit To Be In Your Kitchen (www.fit2beinyourkitchen.com). Ruben provides a meal plan that is customized for me and my body. These meal plans are consistent in structure and vary in content depending on the timing of contest prep. The further out we are the more food and variety on them, the closer to competition we are the variety narrows and we switch fuel sources. The basic principals are carb cycling with fuel source become fat as we get closer to competition. Additionally I provide weekly progress pictures and he provides updated menus that I follow to the letter (no deviations at all). Additional feedback is provided on workouts and splits based on progress and what areas need improvement.

Q: When someone sees your physique or hears you compete for the first time, what is the most common reaction? More positive or negative?
A: A lot of the time most people who I meet and tell them that I compete don’t really believe me or understand what it truly is. I am an accountant and work in an office every day, so much of the time I wear business attire and they don’t really see my physique. I do get comments on how good my arms look much of the time. And a lot of the time they are curious about my strict nutritional routine. In general the reaction is not negative or positive either way, it is mostly curiosity.

Q: When they see it that first time, what is the one question or comment you are most sick of hearing?
A: You don’t look manly at all! It bothers me that there is such a stereo type out there that women who strength train look manly!

Q: What is the biggest misconception about women who train and compete or the one thing you wish people understood?
A: Most people think that all women who choose to strength train (or bodybuilding as they put it) are not feminine, nothing could be further from the truth. Most people think that I am starving myself when I am in the final stages of contest prep, also completely untrue. If they were to actually look at my food bill and my fridge they would see that I am constantly eating. I spend on average $100 a week on groceries and that is just for one person.

Q: What is the best and worst part of training for you?
A: To me the best part of training for me is seeing improvements in strength and muscle size. The worst (and not really that bad to me) is the amount of time it takes, I don’t have much of a life between my day job and my training routine.

Q: Do you have any favorite competitors or any you admire?
A: I was fortunate enough to meet Ava Cowan and Erin Stern at NPC Nationals in November 2011. Both of these ladies are amazing. They were kind and generous with their time. Ava even gave me a few pointers (which meant a lot to me).

Q: Do you have a favorite cheat food?
A:I have found that after each competition the desired cheat food has been different. It has ranged from bread and cheese to sugary type foods. Peanut butter is my absolute favorite food, so after 2011 NPC Nationals I tore through an entire jar is about two days. The surprising part is peanut butter is part of my daily routine.

Q: If another woman told you she wanted to start training, what is the one piece of advice you would most want to give her?
A: Strength training in combination with a healthy (clean) meal plan is essential. Hire a trainer and learn the basics of strength training. And most of all find someone to support your goals, having someone to hold you accountable is key to success.

Q: Do you think it’s becoming more common for women to use the weights as opposed to just doing cardio and things?
A: I would hope so! So many times I speak to women who are either scared of using weights or they believe that weights are only for men. Nothing could be further from the truth. It is my hope to focus on women’s training when I complete my certification.

Q: Outside of training, any other hobbies or activities you enjoy?
A: I ride a Harley-Davidson Softtail Deluxe, I passionately participate in the Susan G. Komen 3 day for a CURE each year, I am actively working on my Personal Fitness Trainer certification, and I try to date when ever time will allow (which doesn’t seem to be as much as I would enjoy lately).

Q: Can you describe a typical day in the life of Laure Leckwold.
A:
4am – Alarm goes off, coffee and head to the gym
5am to 6:30am – GYM time (weight training and cardio depending on split)
6:30 to 8am – get ready for work and prep all meals for the day!
8am to 5pm – Work day (Data management/financial accounting)
5pm to 7pm – social media and promotions work
7pm to 9pm – study
9:30 – lights out (4am comes around too quickly)

Q: Describe Laure Leckwold in five words.
A: PASSIONATE, OUTGOING, CARING, MOTIVATED, & INSPIRATIONAL

Q: What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
A: Most people that meet me are very surprised that I am artistic. I can sew, crochet, make stained glass, scrapbook, etc. I made all my daughter’s costumes for various activities while she was growing up.

Q: Any set plans for the near future as far as competing or anything else?
A: My 2012 goals are to compete in 3 shows (one regional and two national) and to finish my Personal Fitness Trainer certification. Earning my pro card and being a fitness model are my ultimate desire and what I am working toward each and every day.

Q: Anything you want to take this opportunity to plug or promote?
A: My coach Ruben Sandoval and his company Fit To Be In Your Kitchen. He is an certified personal fitness trainer, a certified nutritional counselor, as well as a classically trained chef. His program includes everyday fat loss clients as well as an active competition team. I trust Ruben with my competition preparation and am grateful to be a part of his team.

Q: Are you looking for sponsors? If so how can they reach you and what are they getting in Laure Leckwold the athlete and competitor?
A: I am definitely looking for sponsorships and fitness modelling opportunities!! Most people don’t realize the financial impact of being a competitor, sponsorships are key to being successful and building a brand. I can be reached at LLeckwold@gmail.com or via my facebook page – NPC Figure Laure Leckwold.

Q: Laure, again, I thank you for taking the time to do this. Any last words before you go?
A: Thank you for letting me share my passion for my team Fit To Be In Your Kitchen, weight training, clean eating, and competition. I think the one benefit from all that I do and that I never expected, is being an inspiration to others. I have so many people approach me daily asking questions of how I did it and how can they do it to. I love being a cheerleader to my teammates and friends. I always want to be a positive role model to those around me.

Sara Allen Interview

2012-01-04T15:28:00.000-08:00

Q: First, Sara I want to thank you for taking the time to do this.
A: You are welcome and thank you for this opportunity, it is a pleasure and honor to be interviewed by you.

Q: Can you start out by telling a little about yourself.
A: I am a 33 year old mother of 2 beautiful girls and married to the most amazing man any woman could ever ask for. I started training about 2 years ago and started fighting last year. I am currently a title holder in the 165lb weight class and hold a 4-0 record. I train in Kickboxing and Jujitsu along with boxing, judo and some muay thai. I train out of Warrior Training Center in Warrensburg, Missouri. We share our house with two female boxers (Carwin and Couture) who make sure I am always active even when I don’t want to be. I am grateful for everything my parents taught me and provided for me as a child and feel that they created the strong, confident person that I am today. I feel that my husband has continued where my parents left off and has provided me unconditional love and support for what makes me happy and what makes me, “me”. I could not do or be what I am today without him or his love and support.

Q: Were you especially athletic growing up? Play any sports?
A: I played soccer but that was as far as my athletic abilities went.

Q: What initially got you started training for MMA?
A: I started training kickboxing after I completed Grad School for tension release and from there a new me was created.

Q: Was the training something you picked up fairly easy?
A: It was not super easy for me at first, I was not in good shape and I started completely from scratch. I found what I was good at though and with a lot of hard work and dedication it got easier and I found what techniques I was strongest at and built myself from there. I still have my signature moves that I continue to make stronger and more damaging.

Q: How long did you train before your first fight?
A: I trained for a year before my first fight.

Q: Was fighting something your family and friends supported?
A: When I started training in kickboxing everyone supported me and thought it would great exercise for me but when I told them I wanted to move beyond that and start Jujitsu and training for my first fight the support was lower. I did gain all their support completely when they came to my first fight and saw all my hard work put into effect. Since then they come to all my fights and wear my shirt for support. I love them all and wouldn’t be able to continue the way I do without them. I know my mom is ready for me to retire soon though lol.

Q: Where do you train at now?
A: I train at Warrior Training Center in Warrensburg, Missouri. My trainer is Billy Matheny.

Q: Can you give your overall record so far?
A: I am 4-0 and I recently took the 165lb title belt at my last fight. I have my first title defense on January 14th.

Q: Is there one fight you would say you are most proud of?
A: I am most proud of my second fight, the fight went to the ground and I used one of my favorite moves, “ground and pound”. It was at this fight I got my nickname, The Hammer”. I finished the fight with hammer fists. I was really happy and proud of that fight. Hammer fists have been my fight stoppers since.

Q: What would you say is your biggest strength and the one thing you most want to improve?
A: My biggest strength is my power; I train weights hard and make sure that all my weight training serves a purpose with either a kicking, punching or submitting technique. The one thing I want to improve this year is my flexibility. I am pretty flexible right now but always want to take myself to that next level and being strong in every aspect of fighting is the only way to get there.

Q: Name the one fight you have seen that you will always remember?
A: The one fight that I saw and I will never forget was the Shane Carwin v. Brock Lesnar fight. I was so disappointed that they didn’t stop the fight during Carwin’s ground and pound to Lesnar. I feel that if it was any other fighter they would have stopped it. I have to admit though I did like seeing him pound on Lesnar. Carwin hasn’t fought the same since and it makes me feel that he won’t be the same again and may retire. I would hate to see that.

Q: Are there any fighters you are a fan of or love to watch?
A: I am a fan of Shane Carwin and Cris “Cyborg” Santos. I love the power and strength that they both present and the hard work that each put into their training. I admire pure strength and power and the ability to overpower another person.

Q: In your opinion, who are the top five female fighters in the sport pound for pound?
A: Of course, Cris Santos, that is a given. Along with her I think Ronda Rousey (I didn’t like her latest comments about Santos though), Kim Couture, Erin Toughill, and Shayna Baszler.

Q: Do you ever see a major U.S. women’s only company being viable?
A: I think that every company needs both men and women. Each sex has strengths and weaknesses and having both involved in the company allows all benefits to be offered and success to be achieved. I think it is wrong to say we are deserve a company ran only by women when we would be upset if a man said he deserves the right to have a company run only by men. We have to accept equality on both sides.

Q: Often you watch a show that has one women's fight. Somehow that fight always turns out to be the most exciting fight on the card. Why do you think that is?
A: I think that it seems to be the most exciting because female fighting hasn’t become part of the norm and when you have two talented female fighters competing against each other it becomes instant attraction.

Q: What is the biggest misconception about female fighters?
A: The biggest misconception I think is that we want to be like men. I don’t fight because I want to be more manly or that I think I am as tough as a man, I fight because I want to and I can still be a “girl” and enjoy stepping into the cage.

Q: If another woman told you she wanted to train for the sport, what’s the biggest piece of advice you would give her?
A: Be prepared to train hard and realize that training doesn’t just happen in the gym, it becomes your life.

Q: Outside of training and fighting, any other hobbies or activities you enjoy?
A: I also enjoy learning and expanding my knowledge about anything I can and I love to quilt and other craft products. I love to sew and find it can be just as mentally challenging as winning a fight over an opponent.

Q: Can you describe a typical day in the life of Sara Allen?
A: I wake up early, workout, get food ready for the day, take all my supplements and pack the rest, eat breakfast and shower to go to work or school depending on the day. As soon as I get off work, I hurry home to make dinner, take my daughter to her kids MMA class, workout at the training center and then have either my Stand-Up MMA or Jujitsu, depending on the day. After class, I come home, do homework and get everyone ready for bed and then head to bed myself. I am usually dead tired.

Q: What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
A: It always surprises people to hear that I am not only a banker during the day but I am also a quilter and crafter. I hope it makes the girls feels safer at work having me there lol.

Q: Describe Sara Allen in five words.
A: Confident, dedicated, achievement, eager, and powerhouse.

Q: So what’s next for you? Any idea when you will be fighting again?
A: I fight again on January 14; it will be my first title defense.

Q: Anything you want to take this time to plug or promote?
A:I would like to thank everyone at the Warrior Training Center, they have helped create the fighter that I am now, my amazing trainer Billy Matheny and finally the best supplements guy on the market Dave French at Advanced Nutrition and Fitness, his advice and expertise helped me achieve my goals every step of the way.

Q: Are you looking for sponsors? If so, how can they reach you and what are they getting in Sara Allen the fighter and person?
A: I am currently an amateur but always looking for sponsors to move to my next level. You can reach me at fitinaviation@gmail.com and with me you not only get someone that works hard for the love of the sport but also someone that continues to improve herself physically and skill wise and someone you would be proud to be part of your team and to be part of mine. I don’t disappoint.

Q: Sara, I want to thank you for doing this. Any last words before you go?
A: I just want to say thank you again for this amazing opportunity and for all you do promoting women in what can sometimes be seen as a “man’s world”. I hope to talk to you again soon and good luck in your workouts and goals for this year.

Leah Dattilo Interview

2012-01-04T14:57:00.000-08:00

Q: First, Leah, I want to thank you for taking the time to do this.
A: Thank you for giving me this opportunity better introduce myself in the fitness industry and to share my story with other athletes like myself!

Q: Can you start out by telling a little about yourself.
A: Born and raised in Saint Louis, MO. Birthday is June 11th, 1985, 26 years old. I come from a small family, one of three sisters. I am an identical twin! :) We have always been pretty active throughout school, but I took a "relaxed path" for a few years when I married in 2008. I ended the marriage in 2010. I picked up the weights to train for my 1st bikini competition in Dec. 2009. My sister Angela Coleman competes with me, but in figure. I have worked as a Sedation Certified Dental Assistant for 8 years. Nationality is mainly Sicilian and Aztec Indian.

Q: Before the gym were you an esepcially athletic person? Play any sports or anything?
A: In grade school I played basketball and track. Junior high, I played volleyball and ran track as well. Never really got involved in High School sports.

Q: What initially led you into the gym?
A: After graduating high school in 2003, I got into a "comfort zone". My sister would always ask me to workout with her, but I lacked motivation to go consistently. I gained weight over the years and didn't like the way my body was changing. My former husband wouldn't let me join the gym or go workout with my sister because "I had nobody to impress". Unhappy and tired of being told what I "can" and "can't" do because of another's insecurity. I set my personal goal to lose weight, sought the help of my sister and Team In-Shape Nutrition coach Kit Kitson, who also encouraged me to compete in our 1st bikini / figure comp. together in 2010. I answered to no one but myself at this point. December 2009 marked the training and diet process for me. All my ex- husband's stressful, negative, unsupportive comments kept me working harder and longer in the gym to reach my goal and prove to myself that I can stick to it. I competed in the NPC Midwest Classic April 2010 and WON Bikini class A!! My sis won figure overall!

Q: Was training something you picked up fairly easy? How long before you started to see results?
A: Weight training and cardio was hard starting out, but I adjusted pretty fast. The endurance and strength levels weren't quite there. I was very unstable with movements and had to work on my form constantly. Upper body was very easy for me to build. It's harder for me to bring up leg development, so we have to hit them pretty hard. We incorporate a lot of heavy super-setting and plyos. Practice makes perfect though! We have been very blessed with great genetics as well! It doesn't take much for our bodies to take shape and to respond to weights. I put on 2lbs muscle while prepping for the show in April! Body fat dropped drastically! Every week we could notice great differences in my physique. Between Dec. 2009 and Feb. 2010 I put on 10 lbs of LBM. Now I'm told to "ease-off" the upper body training! LOL!

Q: What made you decide to compete for the first time?
A: After setting my short term goal to lose weight, my sister planned on competing with her husband in the 2010 NPC Midwest show, but later, her husband was deployed in Jan 2010. With that happening, she still chose to go through with the show to keep her focused off the time her hubby would be gone. She encouraged me to compete with her and support each other through the diet. It was really something special to be there for her, do our first show together and place so well! :)

Q: Is competing something your family and friends supported?
A: At first, no one knew what to expect, including me. Each week brought changes in diet and training. It confused people at first. My family asked us why we can't have certain fruits, meats, carbs and veggies. Some friends would say "you are barely eating anything!" What most don't understand is that this diet is to achieve a certain look and is not meant to be followed long-term. We simply would have to say "It's not on our plan." Despite everything, the respect they had for our discipline and training out-weighed other feelings. We know who are truly proud of us. They support in the best way that they can relate. They know it is a passion and that it makes us happy. :)

Q: Was competing what you expected or did anything surprise you about it?
A: I believe with every show, there is always going to be something unexpected. You never know who is going to show up or who will get over-looked. What look are the judges favoring with each show? Lean or soft? It always changes. You just have to be your own worst critic and do your personal daily best! Competition also has alot of exposure opportunities! To name a few... modeling, sponsorships and photoshoots to expand a persons fitness portfolio. Worry about sculpting your best package and impressing your judges... no one else.
On the national level, it is much different. There is such a huge turnout with some of these shows! I often wondered how they can judge these huge classes! I feel politics and "who you know" play a role in the shows as well, but this is the game we choose to play. There is so much hard work that goes into each competitor's routine. Everyone is a winner to me and I am proud to belong to such an elite industry! One thing that surprised me with contest training is how different the body can respond with each diet. The body finding it's "normal" state again after a contest. My cutting proccess was slower this time around. I felt that each diet got harder with every show I trained for last year.

Q: Can you share your contest history.
A:
*2010 NPC Midwest Classic: Bikini class A- 1st
*2011 NPC Muscle Mayhem: Bikini class A- 2nd
*2011 NPC Jr. Nationals: Bikini class A- 14th-16
*2011 IFBB North Americans: Bikini class A- 11th-19
My long term goal is to become an IFBB Bikini Pro. For 2012, my goal is to make Top 5 or better.

Q: As far as body parts, what do you feel is your best one?
A: I feel that my arms are very well sculpted. The tushy as well! They say shows are won from the back! ;)

Q: Do you have a part you most like to train or favorite exercise?
A: I love training hammies! SLDL are my favorite movement for these babies!

Q: What is your normal training routine and diet like and how do you alter it for contest prep?
A: Off-Season: I perform weight training 4 days a week and 5 days of moderate cardio sessions. I eat clean 5 days, carbs / calories are higher, also I have 2 cheat meals a week.
Contest Prep: I still perform 4 days weight training, cardio is 6 days kicked up a notch, sometimes it will start with 4am fasted cardio sessions. Mood changes can occur... some days are better than others LOL! but I make myself aware of my attitude! Diet is solid with no cheats, lower carbs / cals. I am allowed 1 cheat meal during contest prep.

Q: When someone sees your physique or hears you compete for the first time, what is the most common reaction? More positive or negative?
A: My reaction I get almost everytime is: "Oh! So you're into that bodybuilding stuff, huh?!" and "So you're a bodybuilder?"
Mostly positive! I like to explain bikini as a "fitness" competitor. I also say that it's like a beauty pageant for fit women! We have our hair, nails, makeup, and tan done along with posing presentations on stage too... only with more meat on our bones! LOL! ;)

Q: When they see it that first time, what is the one question or comment you are most sick of hearing?
A: I received comments like "You looked so skinny!" or "Why can't you maintain that look year round?" LOL! Do you want to know what I ate to look like that?... I am supposed to look tiny and lean for this sport. There is a diet that will get you that look, but it is not balanced, therefore it is not meant for long term.

Q: What is the biggest misconception about women who train and compete or the one thing you wish people understood?
A: Whether it is Women's Fitness, Bikini, WP, Figure, or WBB... We ALL bust our butts in the gym and diet just as hard as everyone else to get in our best possible shape, whatever the challenge may be for each... Some think Bikini is a joke and we don't train or diet hard like other women divisions. It's not when you are performing 2 hours of cardio a day 4 or more days a week to get in shape, consuming less than 1100 calories weeks until show time. Everybody has their personal struggles with each week of diet. It may be easier for some to lose faster than others. We all hit the weights hard, but with different training methods for each division. Some methods may work better than others for each individual. You and your coach will find what methods will benefit your physique.

Q: What is the best and worst part of training for you?
A: I love the feeling of accomplishment in a hard cardio / weight training session! Love the structure of training and diet each day. I feel very organized and on track seeing my coach weekly on progress and knowing my physique will be taking on a leaner look. I feel the most challenging part of contest prep is carb rotating or re-feed cycles. I feel less energy in my workouts, also recovery and endurance isn't as good. That's when you keep faith and keep pushing... Keep your eye on the prize... Be positive!... Envision your time to shine on stage for the judges. NO EXCUSES!!! If it means that much to you, it will not feel like a job!

Q: Do you have any favorite competitors or any you admire?
A: I admire IFBB Bikini Pro Jaime Baird for all of her inspirational, positive blogs!
IFBB Bikini Pro's Nathalia Melo and Amanda Latona!- Great presentations and physiques! New 2011 IFBB Bikini Pro's India Paulino and Roya Tehrani- I love the exotic look they bring to bikini!

Q: Do you have a favorite cheat food?
A: First cheat food I think of is sushi! I LOVE sushi! I love the fried rolls! ;) Sweets would have to be ice cream or cheesecake. Anything with chocolate, marshmallow, caramel and PB too! :) Second cheat would be Chocolate / PB Chip Pancakes with choc. syrup and a meat lovers omelet with cheddar cheese! Pizza is third! Chicago Style Meat Lovers Pizza... Mmmmm!

Q: If another woman told you she wanted to start training, what is the one piece of advice you would most want to give her?
A: Set a short term goal. Then see what you are made of! Don't talk about it... Do it! Train yourself physically and mentally for your goal! You will be amazed by what your body is capable of if you decide to unlock your potential!! Believe in yourself!

Q: Do you think its becoming more common for women to use the weights as opposed to just doing cardio and things?
A: Most women are afraid to lift weights because they don't want to get "bulky". There is a diet and training method that goes along with building muscle. Weight training burns more calories over a longer period of time even at rest, as opposed to cardio. Weights help shape and sculpt! Cardio is an effective way to burn fat and tighten up too, but burning more calories for longer. weight training comes out to be more beneficial. ;)

Q: Outside of training, any other hobbies or activites you enjoy?
A: I enjoy family and friend time- very important to balance everything when in and out of training. Outdoor activities, Shopping, Parades, Seasonal Festivals, Cooking off the menu! LOL! Movies, New restaurants to try in my off-season!

Q: Can you describe a typical day in the life of Leah Dattilo.
A: In training: 4 am cardio, work, train, cardio, cook, eat, pack and sleep... Repeat! Don't forget! Gotta find that balance on the weekends though for friends and family!

Q: Describe Leah Dattilo in five words.
A: Driven, Focused, Strong, Structured, Relentless until my goal is reached!

Q: What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
A: I am not a high maintenance girl. I am simple, down to earth, that has respect for everyone. I consider myself outgoing! I do not judge people. I treat people how I want to be treated! I am focused in the gym and might come off unapproachable, but I train in the gym towards a goal. Not for a long social session, I like to talk too, but also be productive with my time in the gym. I have a routine after the gym too. :)

Q: Any set plans for the near future as far as competing or anything else?
A: I plan to compete at the JR. USA's in May to start. I will start my prep a bit early, aiming towards the end of January. My sister will be competing with me as well! Look for both of us there!

Q: Anything you want to take this opportunity to plug or promote>
A: Please follow along on my new athlete page on Facebook: Leah Dattilo- NPC National Bikini Athlete! Follow along with me as I ready for prep with Team In- Shape Nutrition and update towards the NPC Jr. USA's! Please check out my sister Angela Coleman- NPC National Figure Athlete as well! We appreciate all the support!

Q: Are you looking for sponsors? If so how can they reach you and what are they getting in Leah Dattilo the athlete and competitor?
A: I am available and would love a chance to help and promote a company! My e-mail is leahmdattilo@yahoo.com. I would appreciate serious inquiries only! :) Also, please visit my athlete page on Facebook: Leah Dattilo- NPC National Bikini Athlete. I would love to become a valuable asset to one's company! Would love the chance to travel to work the sponsor's booth to represent! I would love to stay up to date on my athlete profile, blogs on contest prep, Q&A and experiences!! :)

Q: Leah, again, I thank you for taking the time to do this. Any last words before you go?
A: I want to thank all my friends and family. S 2, All of Team In-Shape Nutrition coaches and athletes! My sister Angela Coleman for being my other half! ;) best supporter, best friend and new trainer! ;) I am ready to make my 2012 a success!

Cherish Hunter Interview

2012-01-01T17:30:00.000-08:00

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Q: First, Cherish, I want to thank you for taking the time to do this.
A: Thank you Jason, I appreciate the opportunity!

Q: Can you start out by telling a little about yourself.
A: I was born and raised in sunny San Diego, where I still reside. I was raised an only child, but I had two older cousins who filled big brother roles to me. I grew up with a tightly knit family unit and I was blessed with grandparents who helped to instill old time values in me.

Q: Before the gym were you an especially athletic person? Play any sports or anything?
A: I've always been very active from a young age. My mother started me in dance class at the age of 3, and it took off from there. Though the years I danced, played softball, competed in BMX, and was a national level competitive cheerleader. I fell in love with the competitive side of cheer (like the kind shown on ESPN) and ended up doing that for 8 years. I guess you can say I've always been attracted to the bright lights of the stage.

Q: What initially led you into the gym?
A: My mom was a regular gym-goer from the time I was a child, so that set a good example for me growing up. It was never anything that really had to be learned. Since I had never know any different, it was just second nature. I got my first gym membership at the age of 13 (which, at the time, was the age requirement) and I would go in with my mom and do the machines. I was just naturally drawn to strength training. Then, when I started competing in cheer, strength was vital for stunting, so my time in the gym increased in order to optimize my performance in my sport. I started getting into heavy lifting approximately 6 years ago while working at a gym, and my life has never been the same.

Q: Was training something you picked up fairly easy? How long before you started to see results?
A: Honestly, yes, its always come natural to me and the results come rapidly. I just connect to the iron in a way I cant even explain. No matter what kind of day I've been having, I can get to the gym, get into my zone, and all my troubles and worries just melt away. Its just me and the weights. Everything else just kind of fades into the background, as though theres no one else around. I think its important for people to have a constant in their life, a go-to if you will. The weights are my go-to. The iron is my oldest, most loyal friend. Its an equal, balanced relationship where you get out exactly what you put in.

Q: What made you decide to compete for the first time?
A: I had actually been throwing around the idea of competing back in 2009, before the NPC came out with the Bikini Division, but I just never took the leap. I guess something in the timing just didn't feel right. I ended up getting pregnant in January 2010 and our daughter was born October 8, 2010. During that same year, the NPC came out with Bikini, and I knew I had found my place. I gave my body enough time to recover and started an extended prep in June 2011. Twelve months year after giving birth to our daughter, I made my NPC debut and fell back in love with the stage.

Q: Is competing something your family and friends supported?
A: I am so fortunate in the respect that my family and friends have been extraordinarily supportive. No one was very surprised of my decision to compete since I had been living the lifestyle for years, but I was still overwhelmed with the outpour of encouragement. My husband is my biggest fan, and without his help, I never would have been able to make my dream a reality while juggling training, a full time job, and my new fulfilling role as a mommy.

Q: Was competing what you expected or did anything surprise you about it?
A: It was everything I expected and more! The feeling of stepping on stage to display the result of months of blood, sweat, and tears is nothing short of electrifying. It makes all the sacrifice worth it tenfold. The only thing that surprised me was how nervous I was during pre-judging. I'm not really a nervous person by nature and I have plenty of experience performing and being on stage, so the nerves were actually really surprising. I remember being on stage during pre-judging and I was shaking so terribly that I was convinced the entire audience (and more importantly the JUDGES) could see it! I just smiled, worked the stage, and prayed they couldn't see me shaking! (Side note: turns out you totally couldn't see me shaking!)

Q: Can you share your contest history.
A: I actually just have one show under my belt at this point and just started prep for my next one in March 2012.
*2011 NPC Border States Classic, Bikini Class C: 1st place (3rd Overall)

Q: As far as body parts, what do you feel is your best one?
A: Hmm, that's a tough one. I'm partial to my back, but I get a lot of compliments on my booty, so I think I'm gonna have to go with booty. My husband calls it my GB (Ghetto Booty).

Q: Do you have a part you most like to train or favorite exercise?
A: Yes, I LOVE training back and delts. Actually, I really like training upper body in general. Training back makes me feel strong. My favorite exercises are pull ups and Romanian Deadlifts. Any movements that make me feel like a beast =)

Q: What is your normal training routine and diet like and how do you alter it for contest prep?
A: I don't really have an "off season" per say, because I still eat lean & clean outside of prep. I find that I just don't feel quite myself when I'm not eating right. My energy levels tank and you can always see sugar in my complexion. My skin totally rats me out! My training is much different though. Outside of prep, I dive back into my heavy lifting since its what I love, and I don't do any cardio, with the exception of the occasional HIIT or sprint session. Prep training is very high intensity, high volume, low weight, and it consists of lots of giant sets. In other words, it kicks my booty! Literally! I can thank my amazing Coach for that!

Q: When someone sees your physique or hears you compete for the first time, what is the most common reaction? More positive or negative?
A: Mainly positive. I've found people to be generally pretty receptive and encouraging of it actually. Most of the time, if they take the time to inquire, its because something has piqued their interest so if you explain it to them in a manner with which they can relate, they are usually nothing short of positive and even complimentary.

Q: When they see it that first time, what is the one question or comment you are most sick of hearing?
A: I'm not one to really take offense to much, but the one comment that has always irked me a little is when someone chalks up achievements and/or progress to nothing more than genetics. I feel it takes away from the hard work and dedication we competitors put into this. Will genetics play a role? Absolutely. But genetics aren't what get me through those grueling weight workouts when I feel like I'm going to throw up, or cardio sessions that feel like they're never going to end. And genetics surely don't get me through that last 2 weeks of prep when I'm exhausted, carb depleted, and cranky. No, those aren't genetics. THAT is dedication.

Q: What is the biggest misconception about women who train and compete or the one thing you wish people understood?
A: I would say one of the misconceptions I run into the most is the belief that competitors starve themselves. It boggles my mind actually. I just wish these people could actually see how much food I eat a day! These muscles are far from starved!

Q: What is the best and worst part of training for you?
A: I love everything about weight training. That "runners high" so many people talk about, I get while lifting. It just makes me a happy girl. I guess the "worst" part is the cardio. I am not a cardio fan, but it is a necessary evil during prep.

Q: Do you have any favorite competitors or any you admire?
A: I LOVE Jaime Baird! Not only does she have an amazing physique, but she is truly a class act. She is humble, down to earth, and her passion shines through in everything she does.

Q: Do you have a favorite cheat food?
A: Oh don't even get me star.I could give you LISTS! I have a horrible sweet tooth and would gladly annihilate anything baked, gooey, or chocolate. True story.

Q: If another woman told you she wanted to start training, what is the one piece of advice you would most want to give her?
A: To rely on sound training and nutrition over supplements. I feel many people (especially newbies) drastically overload themselves on unnecessary supplements with the misconception that the right supplements will compensate for a poor training and/or nutrition program. Supplements definitely have their place, but only as a supplement to an already effective program.

Q: Do you think its becoming more common for women to use the weights as opposed to just doing cardio and things?
A: I wish I could say yes, but unfortunately, the masses of the general population still seem to favor only cardio, and are convinced that if a female lifts more than a 2lb pink dumbbell, she will surely turn into Arnold overnight.

Q: Outside of training, any other hobbies or activities you enjoy?
A: I get as much family time in as possible and I'm a huge book nerd. Seriously. My husband actually teases me all the time for how much I read. We also love to travel, so were always taking vacations and small weekend getaways for some R&R with our daughter. We both maintain some pretty hectic schedules so its so nice to get some time away to unwind.

Q: Can you describe a typical day in the life of Cherish Hunter.
A: During the week, I get up around 5:30am and get ready for my day. I then get my 14 month old daughter up and ready for her day, and we head over to Nana's house where she gets to play while my husband and I are at work. After dropping her off I head to my office where I head the Emergency Services Department for a disaster restoration contractor. I'm off at 5pm and hit the gym before heading home for the evening. Rinse and repeat.

Q: Describe Cherish Hunter in five words.
A: Versatile, communicative, loyal, stubborn, intellectual

Q: What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
A: I'm actually a trained ballroom dancer. I started in my teens and fell in love with how much fun it is, specifically West Coast Swing.

Q: Any set plans for the near future as far as competing or anything else?
A: Yes, as I mentioned above, I actually just started prep for the 2012 San Diego Championships on March 17th, and then I'll be heading to the USA's in Vegas at the end of July to compete in my first national show. The rest of the year is still TBD, but I'm super pumped about all that 2012 will bring!

Q: Anything you want to take this opportunity to plug or promote?
A: My best friend and I actually recently started a fitness blog that follows our journey through competing while juggling our normal everyday lives. You can find us at www.faithandsweat.net and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/faithandsweat.net

Q: Are you looking for sponsors? If so how can they reach you and what are they getting in Cherish Hunter the athlete and competitor?
A: I would love to represent a reputable company with a respected brand. I think its important for competitors to align with a brand they trust and believe in, and do all they can to promote that brand. I can be reached by email at fitnesswithcherish@yahoo.com or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/cherishfitz

Q: Cherish, again, I thank you for taking the time to do this. Any last words before you go?
A: Thanks Jason, it was my pleasure!

Spotlight Interview: IFBB Pro Karly Woodle

2011-12-29T17:14:00.000-08:00

Since winning her Pro card very early in he competing career, Karly Woodle has continued to improve with each show. She looked great this year competing at both the St. Louis Pro and the Phoenix Pro. As you will read, she knows what improvements she needs to make, and will no doubt make them. In my opinion Karly will one day be on stage at the Olympia.

Q: Were you athletic at all growing up?
A: Not really. I was a tomboy but I was rather clumsy. I think I fell of the monkey bars a few times and broke some bones.

Q: How did you start with weight training?
A: I kinda worked out on my own, but was never able to put on muscle. I found out later on t was my nutrition habits, I didn't know how to eat right. So when I met my trainer she said I had a good genetic structure to compete. So, I was kind of bored and it was something new.

Q: How long were you seriously training before you competed?
A: About a year and a half before I first got on stage.

Q: When you first started competing, did you ever think it would get to where it is now?
A: Not really. I didn't know what it was about, that it was a sport in and of itself. It was like "that looks fun, lets get on stage". I am still trying to figure out all the ins and outs of the game.

Q: Not knowing what it was about, and having done it, what was the biggest surprise about it?
A: I didn't realize your body could get that lean. It's a mental game more than a physical game. I thought it was day in and out go to the gym and eat right. There is so much more of a mental challenge to it. I think that's what a lot of people don't understand. It kind of makes it more fun.

Q: You won your Pro card at the 2009 Jr. Nationals. What went through your mind when you realized you were getting it?
A: I was really excited. It was my third show ever. I had no idea, no expectations. I had never done a National show and didn't know what it would be like. It was overwhelming.

Q: Did you think going in, that you had a shot?
A: I guess I didn't really know. I was kinda doing it because it was a fun thing, which it still is, but you put more stress on yourself knowing who you are against. At that show I was doing it just to do it.

Q: Your first Pro show, did you feel you belonged or have to convince yourself?
A: I kinda had to convince myself because there was pressure to take it up a notch. I over dieted for that show, had more stress in my life than I should have. There was more pressure definitely.

Q: For a competitor, what is the difference between amateur shows and Pro shows?
A: There is less girls. There is a level of competition at amateur shows because there are so many more girls, they are nice girls. Pro shows, we are already there, at the level we wanna be at, so it seems everyone is more friendly.

Q: This year you did the St. Louis and Phoenix Pro shows. Where you happy with how you did?
A: I think I am still trying to Figure out the right formula for the best look on stage. At St. Louis I was happier, but I carried more muscle and they weren't looking for as much. I was told to bring it down. My conditioning could have been better and I wanna work on that this year.

Q: That leads to my next question. Besides conditioning, for 2012 what improvements do you want to make?
A: I want to bring my legs down a bit, and basically bring them in That's kind of my Achilles heel you could say. My quad sweeps are too big. So to get that physique they are looking fro now, that Y shape, I wanna bring my legs down and be more conditioned.

Q: You mentioned carrying more muscle. With that being said, would you or have you considered Physique?
A: I briefly thought about it, but I wanna wear heels on stage. If they could wear heels I might try haha.

Q: For a competitor does being a Pro carry more responsibility?
A: I think in a way it does because everyone who competes, people are looking up to you. its something people cant or wont do. So as a Pro you have gone above and beyond. So at that point its better to carry yourself with more dignity. The more you got out there the more personality you have. You see that with Nicole Wilkins and Erin Stern, people know who they are. Like celebrities, they are more likely to carry themselves in a more respectable way.

Q: Can you give a brief example of your training routine?
A: Mine ha stayed pretty much the same. I do a three day split. Back and biceps, and then you have chest, shoulders and triceps, and leg days. My leg days have dropped off a bit, so its mainly hamstrings and a lot of plyometrics, so they don't grow anymore. Trying to stay heavier on shoulders and get those developed.

Q: I was told to ask you this. Someone said they always notice your shoulders and delts, so can you give her an example of your shoulder workout?
A: They get attention? haha. I usually do a military press or smith press with 40 or 50 pounds, front raises with plates, pushdowns for triceps, lateral raise, rear delts. I usually do it in a circuit. Sometimes I do two shoulder days. Heavier the first day. Whatever it takes to get it all dialed in.

Q: When you are at the gym, do you get a lot of unwanted attention?
A: You know what? I have been at the same gym for so long, I got to know everyone, and all that stuff out of the way early on. I find when you are getting ready for a show, dieted down, tired and hungry, and don't wanna talk, that's when people wanna talk, and say "whens your show" or "what are you eating". That's the only time I say "Please don't talk to me."

Q: In public, do you dress down, or show it off, or whatever you feel like that day?
A: I just do whatever I feel like. Sometimes you wanna show it off. But regular clothes or not, people can see your shape. They will make a comment, positive or negative, its their opinion. I have tried to cover up so they don't say things, but they still do. So you gotta wear what you want to and who cares what they think.

Q: Is the Olympia the ultimate goal?
A: Yeah it would be. I think more so, just getting my name out there. The Olympia is almost a crap shoot to get into, cause you have to win or be 2nd place. So it would be ideal, but if I can be a positive role model, that does more for me.

Q: Before we finish, anyone you wanna thank?
A: Definitely my trainer Patty. I was a skinny little girl when I met her, so this is all her doing. My sponsors Serious Nutrition Solutions. I started with them in August and they have great products and helped at the end of the year. My family and friends, the ones who do support me.

Spotlight Interview: Charmaine Tweet

2011-12-27T18:39:00.001-08:00

You may look at Charmaine Tweet's 0-2 MMA record and think she isn't anything special. However if you think that, then you are thinking wrong. Because that means you are not familiar with all the things Charmaine has achieved in the sport of kickboxing. She jumped into MMA by taking on Ronda Rousey in her first fight and then Anna Barrone in her second, which was a fight were an injury no doubt played a part in the finish of the fight. As Charmaine continues to improve on the ground and combines that with her excellent stand-up, she is definitely someone to keep an eye on as she will be a tough opponent for anyone.

Q: Before MMA, you were a very accomplished kickboxer. What got you started in that?
A: It started when I was 14 or 15 years old. I was really involved in fitness. Once I stopped growing in 6th grade, I stopped growing upwards, but kept growing outwards. So I got involved with aerobics and did videos at my house. One of the videos was the "Sugar" Ray Leonard boxing video. I was doing the shadow boxing and thought "it would be fun to punch something other than the air". I was always interested but at that time female boxing wasn't big so I never got into it in high school. When I lived in Milwaukee my husband met Duke Roufus and they said I should come check out the gym. I walked in and talked with his business partner and told him I wanted to box. They said "sure,, but you have the build for a kick boxer, would you like to do that to", and I said "sure why not?". The rest is history.

Q: Competing in a combat sport, not something every girl does, were friends and family skeptical at first?
A: Yeah a little bit. Not so much my friends. I lived a long way from home at that time so I didn't see a lot of my friends and family from back home. My parents didn't know what I was doing till they watched a video of one of my fights. My husband and friends in the States were completely behind me. So I never got any flack for doing it.

Q: People may not know just how accomplished you are. Is there anything from that sport you are most proud of?
A: Winning the World Championships in Thailand. Winning it where the sport originated was my big accomplishment. I loved that, it was a cool feeling.

Q: You have since started MMA. What made you move to MMA?
A: I went to a WEC show in Edmonton and saw Duke again. He looked at me and said "What are you doing? You have been doing amateur long enough, get into MMA and make money doing what you love". I love Muay Thai but it would barely cover training expenses to fight professionally there. I still want to if the opportunity comes up, but I started MMA to make cash at it. I am a mom with two kids and work a full time job. It gets expensive.

Q: What was the biggest adjustment for you?
A: Being taken to the ground. I am a big girl so its a long way to fall haha. Just the ground game, changing up my stance and moving a little differently.

Q: Are you at the point where you are comfortable on the ground?
A: Yeah I am comfortable on the ground. I don't know how comfortable I am going there. I would rather keep it up, but I know better what to do now, more than when I fought Ronda. That was an amateur mistake I made there.

Q: That leads to my next question. In June you lost by armbar to Ronda Rousey. But seeing as how she has done that to everyone, does it make it less painful for you?
A: Yeah exactly. When I saw Julia Budd lost quicker than I did I was like, "I guess I didn't do so bad, I lasted longer than a more accomplished fighter did". And not a lot of girls can say they fought Ronda Rousey in her first fight.

Q: Was it a conscious decision to fight someone like her for your first fight, or did you consider someone maybe a little less accomplished?
A: We had tried to get so many people to fight me. My husband would know more than I did cause he went through a list we had and kept getting turned down and down, and finally her name came up and she took it. If no one else was gonna do it, I had to jump into the deep end.

Q: There is a lot of talk right now about whether she or Sarah Kaufman should get to fight Miesha Tate. Do you have an opinion or do you not really care?
A: I don't really have an opinion to be honest. I think if she wants to fight Cyborg, she should go for Cyborg now if she thinks she is ready. That's a fight I would like to see.

Q: After that you lost to Anna Barrone. Did you underestimate her?
A: I don't know about that. I am pretty sure I broke my hand on the first punch, the first jab. Then she came with a big overhand right and clipped me right on my sweet spot. I tried to grab and clinch, and with the broken hand I couldn't hold her. I was talking to my coaches and Rob said "you looked fine" and people said "how in the hell did she get out of Char's clinch". There are grown men who cant get out of my clinch. I think if I had the cahnce to lock it on, things would have ended differently. But props to Anna, she came in hard and fast and clipped me.

Q: From those first two fights, what do you feel you need to most improve? Would it be the ground?
A: No! You know what? if you look at those fights, I don't think I threw a single kick. Where I had been training was mostly a Jiu-Jitsu school, I left there shortly after I fought Ronda, but trained for a year and a half, and every time we sparred, they wouldn't let me kicks. So it got drilled into my head, as soon as I put on MMA gloves "don't kick, don't kick, don't kick". I think I need to bring the kicks back. I have a hard kick. My ground game can always use work. Everyones ground game can use work. But bring my legs back to being a big advantage.

Q: With that kickboxing pedigree are people going to keep trying to avoid standing with you?
A: Oh yeah! Unless its another striker, cause strikers love to strike. But as much as possible people will try and take me to the ground.

Q: The casual fan doesn't necessarily follow kickboxing. Do you think they could look at your record and not know what you have done in kickboxing, and maybe not give you the respect you deserve?
A: Its possible I would say. But I haven't accomplished a whole lot in MMA. So time to change that.

Q: Is there anyone right now you would like to fight.
A: I would love to rematch Ronda in about a year. But I am just looking to fight, I don't care who it is.

Q: With Strikeforce staying on Showtime, and more people covering Women's MMA, do you see it growing at a steady rate?
A: Oh definitely. I mean, there are more women even in kickboxing than when Is tarted. The more coverage there is, the more younger people are saying "I can do this". Hopefully we can grow to have a nice 155 pound division.

Q: Say three years from now, where do you see yourself in the sport?
A: Three years from now I will be 38 years old. I plan on fighting into my 40's, but I am not sure. It's hard to say. It depends on my body. But I would like to see me with a Strikeforce contract.

Q: So is Strikeforce the Ultimate goal?
A: Yeah, it seems to be the pinnacle of women's MMA. I wanna be the champion of the most elite women's division there is.

Q: Before we finish anyone you want to thank or mention?
A: First I want to thank my husband Kord. He is the one who works his butt off to find me fights. Working full time I don't have the time. So big thanks to him. My trainers, Chi Chi, Ron Gonzales, Rob Rennebohm, all the guys who spar with me, my kids for putting up with me during weight cuts. And big thanks to my youngest who got a DJ mixer for Christmas so is mixing up my next song for me. And also I am fighting February 24th in Medicine Hat on a Hard Knocks card against Marcella Wineberger.

WBFF Pro Sharon Polsky Interview

2011-12-27T11:11:00.000-08:00

Q: First, Sharon, I want to thank you for taking the time to do this.

Q: Can you start out by telling a little about yourself.
A; My name is Sharon Polsky and I was born in raised in Long Beach California. I have been an athlete all of my life, including nationally ranked swimmer and equestrian; and a classically trained dancer. I also spent most of my young life running away from 2 older brothers that loved to pick on me, as most brothers do. So I guess you can say I am a triple threat; swimmer, dancer and runner (by necessity)

Q: What initially led you into the gym?
A: When I was 14 I started working out in the gym with my 2 older brothers, cause of course everything they did I wanted to do as well. Then when I was 16 I taught my first step aerobics class and although I was a terrible instructor at that time, I was hooked and never looked back.

Q: Was training something you picked up fairly easy? How long before you started to see results?
A: Training was never easy for me, in fact to this day I have to work harder then anybody else for the very small gains that I get; but I think that is what I love about the challenge of it.

Q: What made you decide to compete for the first time?
A: Well, the reason I decided to compete for the first time was actually to promote my business. I started competing in fitness routines with the Ms. Fitness Organization (which no longer exists) and I was the first person to introduce a Pole Acrobatics routine as my fitness routine. At the time I owned a Pole Acrobatic studio and really wanted to change the perception of pole and show people that it was fitness and not something trashy. Well I accomplished that and then some. With that Pole Acrobatic routine I was Ms. Fitness Southern California multiple times and ranked 5th in the U.S. and 10th in the World. Now I don't compete in fitness routines anymore but still love it.

Q: Is competing something your family and friends supported?
A: My family and friends will never support me competing not because they don't want to but because they just don't understand it. They don't understand why I eat the way I do or exercise the way I do; but I am lucky because they don't undermine my goals either. My family and friends are all very goal oriented so they will never try to derail mine.

Q: Was competing what you expected or did anything surprise you about it?
A: Actually competing was what I expected and then some. It is the most amazing sisterhood I have ever experienced in my life. I have met life long friends in this industry.

Q: Can you share your contest history.
A: 2011 Rankings:
*WBFF - Fitness Atlantic. Fitness Model Masters - Champion
(Ms. Fitness USA and Worlds Postponed for 2011)
*WBFF - Central US Championships - Awarded Pro Card
*WBFF - World Championships - Awarded the Monica Brant Award
2010 Rankings:
*Ms. Fitness USA Finals - 2010/2011 - 6th Place
*Fitness America - Southern California - 2010 - Champion Open Fitness
2009 Rankings:
*Ms. Fitness USA Finals - 2009/2010 - 5th Place
*Ms. Fitness World Finals - 2009/2010 - 10th Place
*Ms. Fitness Southern California - Champion
2008 Rankings:
*Fitness America Finals - Classic - 2008 - Champion
*Bikini America - Southern California - 2008 Champion Classic Bikini
*Fitness America - Southern California - 2008 - Champion Open Fitness

Q: As far as body parts, what do you feel is your best one?
A: My abs, back and triceps are by far my best and most naturally muscular body parts.

Q: Do you have a part you most like to train?
A: I love training legs because those are the ones that I have changed the most.

Q: What is your normal training routine and diet like and how do you alter it for contest prep?
A: I actually train hard and eat clean year round, so I don't really take an off season like most competitors. I start my competition prep about 12 weeks out from my first show and then the cutting is cumulative for the rest of the show and I really use diet limitations and functional training for that.

Q: When someone sees your physique or hears you compete for the first time, what is the most common reaction? More positive or negative?
A: Many times it is negative. They think I compete because I want people to look at me but I don't its because I want to inspire people.

Q: When they see it that first time, what is the one question or comment you are most sick of hearing?
A: I am most sick of people saying to me, "oooh I want a body like that". I used to tell people how they can achieve it and then they would say "OMG I had no idea everything you have to do to get this".

Q: What is the biggest misconception about women who train and compete or the one thing you wish people understood?
A: People say to me all the time that I must have great genetics. I have horrible genetics, minimal muscle memory and a rare neurological condition; so this is achieved by hard work, dedication and a healthy diet.

Q: What is the best and worst part of training for you?
A: Worse part about training is the time that it takes to get what I want but it is well worth it.

Q: Do you have any favorite competitors or any you admire?
A: I am actually an old school bodybuilding fan.

Q: Do you have a favorite cheat food?
A: Chips and Salsa with Margaritas

Q: If another woman told you she wanted to start training, what is the one piece of advice you would most want to give her?
A: You have to get a reputable coach, not a trainer. There is so much more that goes into competing then just working out and diet.

Q: Do you think its becoming more common for women to use the weights as opposed to just doing cardio and things?
A: Nope not for the mainstream population. Go walk into any health club in January and you will see women on cardio and men in the weight room.

Q: Outside of training, any other hobbies or activities you enjoy?
A: I love doing anything outdoors; skiing, rockclimbing, hiking, boating...

Q: Can you describe a typical day in the life of Sharon Polsky.
A: I get up at 6 am every morning and eat a great breakfast, I go to my fitness studio and work most of the day with clients. I do get some time in their for a workout and a couple of meals, and then I am back home from work at 7 pm for a couple more meals. I love what I do so I wouldn't have this any other way

Q: Describe Sharon Polsky in five words.
A: Fun, Feisty, Cute, Sexy, Loyal, Dedicated

Q: What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
A: I am a professional acrobat and still perform in nightclubs, events and parties all over the world.

Q: Any set plans for the near future as far as competing or anything else?
A: I will continue to compete with the WBFF as a Pro Diva Fitness Model

Q: Anything you want to take this opportunity to plug or promote?
A: You can visit me any time at www.sharonpolsky.com or please find me on Facebook and send me a friend request I really like to interact with people.

Q: Are you looking for sponsors? If so how can they reach you and what are they getting in Sharon Polsky the athlete and competitor?
A: I really need sponsors to help me get to World Championships and the European Championships this year so please email me at sharonpolsky@gmail.com. You will not be disappointed.

Q: Sharon, again, I thank you for taking the time to do this.

2011 Real Women Awards

2011-12-22T21:28:00.001-08:00

These awards are done not just by me. To make sure they are impartial, I have both media members and competitors/fighters help make the nominees. For most awards pro and amateur goes by what you intered 2011 as. So if you won a pro card or turned pro in 2011, you still are in the amateur catagories here, except in the 2012 Is Their Year catagory. We have added some catagories including Woman of the Year, which is for you to vote on any female or competitor you want. There are no nominees. This is being treated as our biggest award. Also their are are the COurage Awards. Those are not voted on by fans, so therefor, not listed on this ballot. The Fitness Industry one is the Leslie Wartman Courage Award and the MMA one is now called the Mighty Mia Hayes Courage Award. For the voters favorite catagories, simply vote whoever you want, there are no nominees. For Competitors Favorite and Fighters Favorite, you must have competed or fought and send either the name of a show you did or date of a fight. Since Phsyique is a new division, the only Physique Award is Physique Competitor of the Year. You can vote for one catagory or all of them, but you can only email once so include them all teh first time. Anyone who votes from teh same email address more than once will not have any of their votes count. Obviously, there is nothing that can be done if someone has multiple email addresses. Voting ends at 11:59PM on January 20th. Send votes to elway78@netzero.com

BLOG AWARDS
1. Cover Model of the Year
A. Chazz Anderson
B. Gail Aerbach
C. Susie Bell
D. Michelle Blank
E. Fleur De Kine
F. Ashley Hawkins
G. Jordan McDonald
H. Michelle Ould
I. Maria Rita Penteado
J. Brea Sharron
K. Erika Shingary
L. Casandra Walker

2. Best Spotlight Interview
A. Jackie Hoppe
B. Sarah Maloy
C. Jordan McDonald
D. Melody Melo
E. Michelle Ould

3. Best Interview- MMA
A. Tamikka Brents
B. Kristin DeWitt
C. Sarah Maloy
D. Jordan McDonald
E. Lacey Schuckman

4. Best Interview- Bikini
A. Jennifer Chapman
B. Kelli Green
C. Christy Merritt
D. Heather Nappi
E. Khay Rosemond

5. Best Interview- Fitness
A. Michelle Blank
B. Shannon Goering
C. Ilona Kovacs
D. Cicely Kyle
E. Jennifer Nash

6. Best Interview- Figure
A. Lindsay Forster
B. Beth Polisson
C. Lisa Mathern
D. Rachael Novello
E. Christina Rico

7. Best Interview- Bodybuilding
A. Jennifer Abrams
B. Amanda Alger
C. Natalie Rae Ariel
D. Suzanne Germano
E. Lisa Neil

FITNESS INDUSTRY AWARDS

1. Best Organization
A. IFBB
B. IFPA
C. NABBA
D. NPC
E. WBFF

2. Supplement Company of the Year
A. Dymatize
B. Gaspari
C. LaBrada
D. Optimum Nutrition
E. Species

3. Trainer of the Year
A. P.J. Braun
B. Shannon Dey
C. Erik Ledin
D. Kim Oddo
E. Jack Titone

4. Industry Website of the Year
A. Fitgems Nation
B. Muscle Girlz Live
C. Muscular Development
D. RX Muscle
E. Sioux Country

5. Best Competitor Website
A. Debbie Bramwell
B. Kristi Bruce
C. Mandy Henderson
D. Tanji Johnson
E. Kris Murrell

6. Weiferd Watts Memorial Award(Photgrapher of the Year)
A. Jeff Binns
B. Mike Eckstut
C. Danny Fittro
D. Isaac Hinds
E. Dan Ray

7. Best Blogger/Writer
A. Gail Auerbach
B. Melissa Cunningham
C. Diane Mueller
D. Pauline Nordin
E. Christopher Ray (C-Ray)

8. Fitness Model of the Year( not who does the most or makes the most. Just whose modelling pictures look the best)
A. Ava Cowen
B. Amanda Folstad-Ptak
C. Larissa Reis
D. Viviana Soldano
E. Stacy Wright

MMA AWARDS

1. Reporter of the Year
A. Ariel Helwani
B. Loretta Hunt
C. Marq Piocos
D. Cheryl Ragsdale
E. Robert Sargent

2. Trainer/Gym of the Year
A. American Kickboxing Academy
B. American Top Team
C. Extreme Couture
D. Greg Jackson/Mike Winklejohn
E. Keith Florian

3. Best Ref
A. Herb Dean
B. John McCarthy
C. Dan Miragliotta
D. Josh Rosenthall
E. Kim Winslow

4. Matchmaker of the Year
A. Sam Caplan
B. Rich Chou
C. Nichole Long
D. Shigeru Saeki
E. Sam Wilson

5. Promotion of the Year
A. Bellator
B. Jewels
C. NAAFS
D. Strikeforce
E. Tuff-n-Uff

6. Best Website/Blog
A. MMA Rising
B. Real Women and Men's MMA
C. Sherdog
D. WMMA Today
E. Wombat Sports

7. Best Fighter Website
A. Sarah Kaufman
B. Tara LaRosa
C. Jocelyn and Jillian Lybarger
D. Roxanne Modafferi
E. Miesha Tate

8. Best Blogger/Writer
A. Katrina Belcher
B. Roxanne Modafferi
C. Lacey Neher
D. Tim Peterson
E. Marq Piocos

9. Best Nickname
A. Sarah D'Alelio "The Monster"
B. Jessica Eye "Evil"
C. Megumi Fuji "Mega Megu"
D. Rebecca Gruitza "The Trainwrecka"
E. Chris Santos "Cyborg"

10. Biggest Box Office Draw
A. Marloes Coenen
B. Megumi Fuji
C. Sarah Kaufman
D. Chris Cyborg
E. Miesha Tate

11. Breakout Amateur Fighter of the Year
A. Jordan Nicole Gaza
B. Jillian Lybarger
C. Lalani Malley
D. Taylor Stratford
E. Tecia Torres

12. Breakout Pro Fighter of the Year
A. Aisling Daly
B. Sara McMann
C. Amanda Nunes
D. Ronda Rousey
E. Patricia Vidonic

13. 2012 Is Their Year Amateur
A. Jordan Nicole Gaza
B. Jillian Lybarger
C. Jordan McDonald
D. Taylor Stratford
E. Tecia Torres

14. 2012 Is Their Year Pro
A. Jessica Aguilar
B. Aisling Daly
C. Jessica Eye
D. Sara McMann
E. Ronda Rousey

15. Most Improved Fighter
A. Jessica Aguilar
B. Alexis Davis
C. Carla Esparza
D. Amanda Nunes
E. Miesha Tate

16. Most Underrated Fighter
A. Alexis Davis
B. Jessica Eye
C. Michelle Ould
D. Lacey Schuckman
E. Kaitlin Young

17. Best Representitive for the Sport
A. Jessica Aguilar
B. Andria Caplan
C. Roxanne Modafferi
D. Jessica Philippus
E. Lacey Schuckman

18. Voters Favorite Amateur Fighter

19. Voters Favorite Pro Fighter

20. Fighters Favorite Amateur Fighter

21. Fighters Favorite Pro Fighter

22. Submission of the year
A. Sheila Bird over Kim Couture by Leg Scissor Choke 7-9-11
B. Marloes Coenen over Liza Carmouche by Triangle Choke 3-5-11
C. Sara McMann over Raquel Pa'Aluhi by Armlock 8-27-11
D. Ronda Rousey over Julia Budd by Armbar 11-18-11
E. Miesha Tate over Marloes Coenen by Arm Triangle Choke 7-30-11

23. Knockout of the Year
A. Heather Clark over April Coutino 1-7-11
B. Sheila Gaff over Hanna Sillen 2-26-11
C. Holly Holm over Jan Finney 9-9-11
D. Amanda Nunes over Julia Budd 1-7-11
E. Cat Zingano over Takayo Hashi 5-14-11

24. Fight of the Year
A. Jessica Aguilar vs Carla Esparza 6-25-11
B. Alexis Davis vs Amanda Nunes 9-10-11
C. Jessica Eye vs Casey Noland 9-24-11
D. Sara McMann vs Raquel Pa'Aluhi 8-27-11
E. Cat Zingano vs Takayo Hashi 5-14-11

25. Amateur Fighter of the Year
A. Ashley Cummins
B. Jordan Nicole Gaza
C. Jillian Lybarger
D. Lalani Malley
E. Taylor Stratford

26. Pro Fighter of the Year
A. Jessica Aguilar
B. Megumi Fuji
C. Sara McMann
D. Ronda Rousey
E. Miesha Tate

PHYSIQUE AWARDS

1. Physique Competitor of the Year
A. Dana Linn Bailey
B. Melissa Di Bernardo
C. Tracy Bodner
D. Jillian Reville
E. Jill Rudison

BIKINI AWARDS

1. Best Stage Presence
A. Jaime Baird
B. Amanda Latona
C. Nathalia Melo
D. Nicole Nagrani
E. Heather Nappi

2. Breakout Competitor of the Year
A. Jennifer Andrews
B. Jaime Baird
C. Vanessa Campbell
D. Heather Nappi
E. Skye Taylor

3. Most Inspirational
A. Vanessa Campbell
B. Sonia Gonzalez
C. Nicole Nagrani
D. India Paulino
E. Whitney Wiser

4. Most Underrated Amateur
A. Angelique Costa
B. Trasy Rincan
C. Khay Rosemond
D. Brea Sharron
E. Rebecca Staggs

5. Most Underrated Pro
A. Jennifer Andrews
B. Jaime Baird
C. Missy Coles
D. Chady Dunmore
E. Nathalia Melo

6. Most Improved Amateur
A. Angelique Costa
B. Heather Nappi
C. Khay Rosemond
D. Rebecca Staggs
E. Skye Taylor

7. Most Improved Pro
A. Vanessa Campbell
B. Missy Coles
C. Dianna Dahlgren
D. Amanda Latona
E. Nicole Nagrani

8. 2012 Is Their Year Amateur
A. Angelique Costa
B. Brea Sharron
C. Mishon Shore
D. Rebecca Staggs
E. Jessica True

9. 2012 Is Their Year Pro
A. Jaime Baird
B. Nathalia Melo
C. Christy Merritt
D. India Paulino
E. Skye Taylor

10. Best Representitive for the Sport
A. Laura Cessna
B. Amanda Latona
C. Nathalia Melo
D. Nicole Nagrani
E. Rebecca Staggs

11. Voters Favorite Amateur

12. Voters Favorite Pro

13. Competitors Favorite Amateur

14. Competitors Favorite Pro

15. Amateur Competitor of the Year
A. Diana Graham
B. Ruthie Harrison
C. Heather Nappi
D. Jennifer Rankin
E. Skye Taylor

16. Pro Competitor of the Year
A. Jaime Baird
B. Dianna Dahlgren
C. Sonia Gonzalez
D. Nathalia Melo
E. Nicole Nagrani

FITNESS AWARDS

1. Best Routines
A. Jodi Boam
B. Myriam Capes
C. Adela Garcia
D. Oksana Grishina
E. Tanji Johnson

2. Breakout Competitor of the Year
A. Michelle Blank
B. Jodi Boam
C. Myrian Capes
D. Tina Durkin
E. Stacy Wright

3. Most Inspirational
A. Debbie Fowler
B. Adela Garcia
C. Tanji Johnson
D. Mindi O'Brien
E. Kayde Puckett

4. Most Underrated Amateur
A. Lisha Dean
B. Lena Mishin
C. Babette Mulford
D. Viko Newman
E. Paula Williams-Gulman

5. Most Underrated Pro
A. Nicole Duncan
B. Oksana Grishina
C. Victoria Larvie
D. Kizzy Vaines
E. Stacy Wright

6. Most Improved Amateur
A. Jodi Boam
B. Lena Mishin
C. Viko Newman
D. Amy Peterson
E. Paula Williams-Gulman

7. Most Improved Pro
A. Michelle Blank
B. Tina Durkin
C. Ryall Graber-Vasani
D. Camala Rodrgiuez
D. Trish Warren

8. 2012 Is Their Year Amateur
A. Cicely Kyle
B. Meredith Miller
C. Lena Mishin
D. Babette Mulford
E. Niko Newman

9. 2012 Is Their Year Pro
A. Michelle Blank
B. Tina Durkin
C. Oksana Grishina
D. Tanji Johnson
E. Paula Williams-Gulman

10. Best Representitive for the Sport
A. Michelle Blank
B. Debbie Fowler
C. Tanji Johnson
D. Adela Garcia
E. Viko Newman

11. Voters Favorite Amateur

12. Voters Favorite Pro

13. Competitors Favorite Amateur

14. Competitors Favorite Pro

15. Amateur Competitor of the Year
A. Jodi Boam
B. Lisha Dean
C. Amy Peterson
D. Sheri Vucick
E. Paula Williams-Gulman

16. Pro COmpetitor of the Year
A. Michelle Blank
B. Adela Garcia
C. Tanji Johnson
D. Camala Rodriguez
E. Trish Warren

FIGURE AWARDS

1. Best Stage Presence
A. Ava Cowen
B. Larissa Reis
C. Erin Stern
D. Ann Titone
E. Nicole Wilkins

2. Breakout Competitor of the Year
A. Shelly Albetta
B. Alicia Harris
C. Candice Keene
D. Sue Knott
E. Karly Woodle

3. Most Inspirational Competitor
A. Tara Hollingsworth
B. Katherynne Ramirez
C. Mikala Soto
D. Erin Stern
E. Nicole Wilkins

4. Most Underrated Amateur
A. Betsy Albetta-Digiovani
B. Michelle Beck
C. Roxie Beckles
D. Beth Polisson
E. Carolyn Sessa

5. Most Underrated Pro
A. Holly Beck
B. Krissy Chin
C. Heahter Dees
D. Katherynne Ramirez
E. Felicia Romero

6. Most Improved Amateur
A. Shelly Albetta
B. Michelle Beck
C. Wendy Fortino
D. Ila Reed
E. Lisa Zisa

7. Most Improved Pro
A. Cheryl Brown
B. Ava Cowen
C. Alicia Harris
D. Candice Keene
E. Ann Titone

8. 2012 Is Their Year Amateur
A. Betsy Albetta-Digiovani
B. Michelle Beck
C. Allison Moyer
D. Beth Polisson
E. Carolyn Sessa

9. 2012 Is Their Year Pro
A. Ava Cowen
B. Heather Dees
C. Aicia Harris
D. Ann Titone
E. Karly Woodle

10.Best Representitive for the Sport
A. Ava Cowen
B. Heather Dees
C. Alicia Harris
D. Erin Stern
E. Nicole Wilkins

11. Voters Favorite Amateur

12. Voters Favorite Pro

13. Competitors Favorite Amateur

14. Competitors Favorite Pro

15. Amatuer Competitor of the Year
A. Fleur De Kine
B. Allison Frahn
C. Wendy Fortino
D. Heather Grace
E. Sue Knott

16. Pro Competitor of the Year
A. Teresa Anthony
B. Ava Cowen
C. Candice Keene
D. Erin Stern
E. Nicole Wilkins

BODYBUILDING AWARDS

1. Best Poser
A. Sheila Bleck
B. Debbie Bramwell
C. Michelle Brent
D. Tina Chandler
E. Alina Popa

2. Breakout Competitor of the Year
A. Tarna Alderman
B. Amanda Alger
C. Cynthia Colon
D. Monique Jones
E. Kira Neuman

3. Most Inspirational
A. Michelle Brent
B. Suzanne Germano
C. Mah-Ann Mendoza
D. Helle Nielsen
E. Melody Spetko

4. Most Underrated Amateur
A. Michelle Brent
B. Amanda Folstad-Ptak
C. Sherri Gray
D. Kira Neuman
E. Aleesha Young

5. Most Underrated Pro
A. Nicole Ball
B. Tina Chandler
C. Claire O'Connell
D. Jeannie Paparone
E. Kim Perez

6. Most Improved Amateur
A. Gail Auerbach
B. Michelle Cummings
C. Judy Gallard
D. Kira Neuman
E. Alyssa Stroud

7. Most Improved Pro
A. Sheila Bleck
B. Brigita Brezovac
C. Monique Jones
D. Kim Perez
E. Alina Popa

8. 2012 Is Their Year Amateur
A. Tarna Alderman
B. Sherri Gray
C. Kira Neuman
D. Maria Rita Penteado
E. Alyssa Stroud

9. 2012 Is Their Year Pro
A. Nicole Ball
B. Michelle Cummings
C. Monique Jones
D. Kimmie Morgan
E. Yaxeni Oriquen

10. Best Representitive for the Sport
A. Nicole Ball
B. Debbie Bramwell
C. Michelle Brent
D. Yaxeni Oriquen
E. Alina Popa

11. Voters Favorite Amateur

12. Voters Favorite Pro

13. Competitors Favorite Amateur

14. Voters Favorite Pro

15. Amateur Competitor of the Year
A. Laura Bosiacq
B. Michelle Cummings
C. Judy Gallard
D. Suzanne Germano
E. Kira Neuman

16. Pro Competitor of the Year
A. Brigita Brezovac
B. Iris Kyle
C. Debbie Laszewski
D. Helle Nielsen
E. Alina Popa

Woman of the Year:

Tammy Wine Interview

2011-12-12T10:36:00.000-08:00

Q: First, Tammy, I want to thank you for taking the time to do this.
A: Thank you, I'm honored to do the interview.

Q: Can you start out by telling a little about yourself.
A: I was born and raised in California but have been living in Virginia for the last 13 years. I have 4 siblings, 3 brothers and 1 sister. I am a single mom, I have a 16 year old son and a 6 year old daughter.

Q: Before the gym were you an especially athletic person? Play any sports or anything?
A: I was never very athletic or played any sports. I have always loved to exercise.

Q: What initially led you into the gym?
A: I have been in and out of the gym for years but I finally got serious about it 2
years ago when I was going through a tough time in my life.

Q: Was training something you picked up fairly easy? How long before you started to see results?
A: I actually picked it up fast and my trainer even incorporated some mma into my training since I like watching it and I was surprised I caught on so fast. Probably within weeks I started to see and feel results. I felt stronger and felt better about myself.

Q: What made you decide to compete for the first time?
A: I wanted to take my training to the next level and see how far I can push myself.

Q: Is competing something your family and friends supported?
A: They all support me and always say how they admire my discipline.

Q: Was competing what you expected or did anything surprise you about it?
A: The main thing that surprised me was how supportive all the competitors are of one another.

Q: Can you share your contest history.
A:
*Oct 29th 2011 - OCB Yorton Cup (6th place - Bikini Open)
*Nov 12th 2011 - NPC Mid Atlantic Grand Prix (1st place Bikini Masters Class A)

Q: As far as body parts, what do you feel is your best one?
A: Back

Q: Do you have a part you most like to train or favorite exercise.
A: I love to do lat pulldowns.

Q: What is your normal training routine and diet like and how do you alter it for contest prep?
A: I train full body twice a week with a trainer and cardio/abs at least 3 times a week.
For contest prep I do cardio 5x twice a day, 6th day is only once. I train full body 3x a week. My diet off season is more carbs, a few cheat meals a week. I'm eating more to gain fuller muscles. During contest prep I start to eat more protein, no cheat meals, fewer carbs and I go from 1 gallon of water to eventually drinking 2.5 gallons.

Q: When someone sees your physique or hears you compete for the first time, what is the most common reaction?
A: "How do you do it." I actually get a lot of positive reactions because they are amazed at the discipline I have. I just tell them its a lifestyle change.

Q: When they see it that first time, what is the one question or comment you are most sick of hearing?
A: "How can you get on stage and be judged?"

Q: What is the biggest misconception about women who train and compete or the one thing you wish people understood?
A: That we are obsessed with looking good, coincided or we starve ourselves.

Q: What is the best and worst part of training for you?
A: The best part is seeing how far I can push my body and seeing the results in the mirror.
The worst part is the amount of training I have to do to prep for a comp can take me away from my family.

Q: Do you have any favorite competitors or any you admire?
A: I have always loved Monica Brant and have followed her since the 90's.

Q: Do you have a favorite cheat food?
A: Pizza

Q: If another woman told you she wanted to start training, what is the one piece of advice you would most want to give her?
A: Don't be afraid to hit the weights, you won't get bulky. You can't just do cardio.

Q: Do you think its becoming more common for women to use the weights as opposed to just doing cardio and things?
A: Yes more women are using weights and its becoming more common for women to compete.

Q: Outside of training, any other hobbies or activities you enjoy?
A: I love the outdoors so love to go for a bike ride or a good hike.

Q: Can you describe a typical day in the life of Tammy Wine.
A: Wake up & take supplements.
Eat breakfast & get daughter ready for school.
Head to work (8-4pm)
Eat every 2.5 hours
Workout after work
At home spend time with daughter, get her ready for bed.
Prep and pack meals for the next day
Go to bed.

Q: Describe Tammy Wine in five words.
A: Patient, non-judgmental, loyal, caring, hardworking

Q: What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
A: I do have my insecurities.

Q: Any set plans for the near future as far as competing or anything else?
A: I am doing the NPC Max Muscle April 28th.

Q: Are you looking for sponsors? If so how can they reach you and what are
A: they getting in Tammy Wine the athlete and competitor?
Yes I am and they can reach me at twright1975@gmail.com or thru Facebook. You are getting someone that works hard to be her best and always has time to help others and I just want to inspire others to believe in themselves and to love themselves and to know the sky is the limit!!

Q: Tammy, again, I thank you for taking the time to do this. Any last words before you go?
A: Your welcome it's been my pleasure. I just want to say no matter how tough it gets DON'T give up!!

Diane's Diary by Diane Mueller

2011-12-12T10:22:00.000-08:00

“Home for the Holidays” is a phrase that so many people embrace and is a phrase that can take on many different meanings for so many families. I’m sure over time, that phrase will take on many different meanings in my own life, but for now, I’d like to share an inspiring story with you that has changed the way I view the holidays. This is the story of a wonderful young man that I am proud to call my nephew and my godson, Ray Ort.

I was very proud of Ray when he chose to enlist in the United States Navy in 2007. He chose the Navy over the other branches of the military, because he had a dream becoming a member of the elite team of Navy SEALs. This is a very lofty goal, as many candidates begin the training process, but very few complete the training. Candidates for the Navy SEALs program are put through some of the most mentally challenging and physically demanding training in the world. Navy SEALs work in small teams and perform some of the most dangerous missions to ensure national security. So as you can imagine, and rightfully so, Navy SEALs are among the most highly skilled and most respected individuals within the armed forces. Given the prestige of these individuals, what red-blooded young man wouldn’t want to be on this team? Ray was hooked. He was all-in and ready to begin this rigorous training.
The year was now 2009 and Ray was busily mastering the steps necessary to become a SEAL. He had already completed all of the submarine requirements and was keeping his fitness at a peak level, so he would be ready to go to Navy dive school. His lifestyle was pretty routine for a 20 year-old in the military; his days were mainly filled with physical fitness, in addition to his daily work within the Navy. He was also preparing himself for the next step in the SEAL program, Explosive Ordinance Disposal. Things were going well for Ray, as his dreams were slowly becoming reality. With entry into dive school on the horizon, Ray underwent a battery of tests and more comprehensive physical screenings than he had been through previously, but that wasn’t of any concern to Ray, as far as he or anyone knew, he was the picture of perfect health.

On August 25th, 2009, Ray received the most devastating news of his young life. The Naval medical team notified him that the tests reflected a positive diagnosis of Hodgkin Lymphoma, a form of cancer that originates from the white blood cells. Rather than moving forward in the SEAL program, his future now was to consist of chemotherapy and many other cancer treatments. His dream had been crushed in a moment’s notice. Naturally, Ray became very depressed. He couldn’t stand to think about or hear about cancer. His bright future suddenly looked very bleak and he couldn’t understand why this was happening to him. The shock was almost unbearable. Why had God chosen to infect him with this terrible disease? It just didn’t make sense. He was a mild mannered, polite young man, living an honorable life, serving his country. Why was the future he dreamed of being taken away from him? Was he going to die in the prime of his life? These were the thoughts that haunted him and drove him to seclude himself from everything and everyone. Well, almost everyone, that is. Thankfully he had his loving fiancée, Brittny, with him. Brittny was more than just his girlfriend, she was his best friend and his soul mate, and it was her love and support that helped Ray to slowly come out of his depression. Within a week of his diagnosis, Ray was ready to begin fighting this disease that threatened to kill him. He decided the best way to defeat this enemy was to be proactive by learning as much about the disease as he could. Drawing on the mental strength that he had learned in the Navy, Ray knew he had the best odds of overcoming this challenge by maintaining his physical fitness and staying positive. He continued to work at his job in the Navy as much as he could around his chemotherapy sessions. He was determined to keep his life as upbeat and normal as he could while he fought his cancer. In September, the cancer treatments began with a treatment called, ABVD.
ABVD is the primary and initial chemotherapy regimen used in the treatment of Hodgkin Lymphoma. Each cycle consists of two doses of chemotherapy, one dose on day one and the other dose generally administered on day 15 of the cycle. Ray went through 8 cycles of ABVD, but his cancer persisted. In July of 2010, he underwent two cycles of another treatment called ICE. ICE is a combination regimen of chemotherapy, which is used when the disease becomes progressive or recurrent, when the ABVD has proven to be ineffective. Rays cancer had progressed from stage I to stage III.

Brittny remained Ray’s primary support throughout all the cancer treatments he had endured at the Naval Medical Hospital. She was his rock and his one true love. Ray knew this was the woman he wanted to spend the rest of his life with and to create a family with. While still undergoing treatments, they decided to plan their wedding. They chose a wedding date of August 21st, 2010. As they continued to plan for their future, they discovered that this was also a positive outlet for their energies and emotions. After all, this disease affected more than just Ray. This was emotionally challenging for Brittny too, who had to watch the love of her life struggle and suffer through cancer treatments. All of this was so much for the young lovers to endure, but through it all, it helped make them stronger and more loving as a couple. Ray and Brittny knew, more than most couples, how short life could threaten to be.

With Ray’s cancer spreading and not responding to the aggressive treatments they were administering, his doctor proposed a stem cell transplant. This was a risky procedure, but it was the procedure that gave him the best chance at curing his cancer. Ray and Brittny were completely onboard with the stem cell transplant. They were anxious for this nightmare to be over so they could move on with their lives as husband and wife. Ray requested to come home to Wisconsin to have the stem cell transplant, with the hopes that his family would be able to help support him through this difficult process. The Navy obliged and on August 5th, Ray was transferred to the care of UW Madison Hospital. The initial preparations for the transplant were delayed, however, as Ray and Brittny had a very important event scheduled on August 21st; their wedding. It was important to them for Ray to be strong enough to be able to enjoy the happiest day of his life, the day his best friend would become his wife. UW hospital granted their request and gave them their blessing for a happy union on Saturday, but wanted Ray back in Madison on Monday to begin the preparations for the transplant.
The best chance for the procedure to be successful was for Ray to be his own donor for the stem cells. The process begins with a small dose of chemotherapy to prepare his body for a stem cell harvest. Eight days later, the doctors attempted to harvest his stem cells. The harvest was successful, but they weren’t able to collect enough stem cells, so they would need to do the procedure again. They would continue to do the procedure until enough stem cells were collected to complete the transplant. With each harvest, they harvested fewer and fewer stem cells. The doctors completed a total of five stem cell harvests by November 17th and they still hadn’t collected enough to complete the transplant, so they administered a medication to try to make his stem cells more productive. They also began looking for a donor for him, because time was of the essence to get the transplant completed. Fortunately, the doctors were able to harvest enough of Ray’s stem cells to complete the procedure and the date of Tuesday, December 7th was set as the official transplant date. Ray needed to report to the hospital the day before, however, to prepare his body for the transplant.

Basically what happens during the transplant is this: large doses of chemotherapy is administered to the patient to kill all the cancer cells and white blood cells in the body, then the harvested stem cells are transplanted into the patient’s bone marrow, and the waiting game begins for those stem cells to regenerate themselves to a satisfactory level of white blood cells. The patient is in a very vulnerable state at this time, as they have zero immune system while they wait for the body to begin healing itself, so special precautions must be observed whenever contact with the patient is made. All visitors and medical staff must sanitize their hands before entering the patient’s room, the patient can only eat foods that are fully cooked, the patient can’t have any plants in the room as they may have bacteria on them, the patient must wear a protective mask over their nose and mouth whenever they leave their room, as their room is a germ-free zone due to special air cleaning filtration systems used for ventilation.
The stem cell transplant was an awful procedure for Ray to endure and it was difficult to watch him go through it. He was in a great deal of pain and his level of discomfort continued to increase before it went down. Eventually he was placed on a morphine drip and spent the majority of his days under sedation as the pain was too great to bear. His mouth was filled with sores and his tongue was so swollen he could barely swallow. He was unable to eat and would choke while trying to swallow a mouthful of water, so he needed to be fed intravenously. Brittny stayed by his side this entire time. She slept on a tiny mattress wedged between his bed and the wall. She lived in his room with him and rarely left on her own. As his aunt, I did as much to help keep him comfortable as I could, bringing him fuzzy blankets to make him feel cozy, bringing him clothes to keep him comfortable, and anything else we could think of to make him feel more at home. The one thing that weighed heavily on both of them was Christmas. Ray and Brittny both loved Christmas. They loved everything about it; the decorations, the music, the Christmas cartoons and just the whole spirit of the holiday. I brought a few decorations in for them to hang around their room, a mini-stereo so they could listen to music and some holiday cartoons to help brighten their spirits. But something still seemed to be missing. Even though they had decorations and stockings hanging on the wall, they were still missing a Christmas tree. I struggled to figure think of a solution, as they weren’t allowed to have a real tree or plant in the room because of the bacteria, when it dawned on me. When my grandmother died many years ago, the one thing I kept as a memorial of her was a ceramic Christmas tree that she always had setting out on the desk in the family room. I was fascinated with this tree as child, so it seemed like a logical choice for me to keep. I brought in that tree on my next visit and set it up in a corner so they could enjoy it and have their own little holiday tree. It seemed as though I was destined to have that tree. What makes it additionally special was that grandma was able to help brighten their gloomy little room and provide them a little holiday peace. That ceramic tree will always hold an extra special place in my heart now.
As the days passed by, Ray slowly began to regenerate his white blood cells. As those counts began to rise, his pain level began to decrease. Ray was a gentleman through this entire procedure. Even on his worst days, he was gracious and thankful for every visitor and for every item brought to make him more comfortable. It brought tears of pride to my eyes as I sat there watching him lie in his bed in agony, yet when the nursing staff or doctors from the hospital entered his room, he had perfect manners and was thankful for everything they did to help make him as comfortable as possible. It’s one thing to be polite during your regular life, but it’s completely another thing to maintain those same mannerisms when you are in agonizing pain and at the lowest point in your life. Everyone that met Ray while he was in the hospital was shocked when they learned he was only 21 years old. The nursing staff continually said he was extremely mature and pleasant for his age. I never tired of hearing that. It made my heart smile every time someone complimented me about his mannerisms.
From the moment Ray was admitted to the hospital, his goal was to be home before Christmas. He couldn’t bear the thought of spending Christmas in his dreary hospital room. As I watched him slowly deteriorating, I remember thinking, there was no way he would be well enough to come home in time. After all, Christmas was only 18 days from the date of his original admittance and going through that entire procedure within 18 days seemed like he would need a miracle. But then again, Christmas is the time for miracles and God was listening. God knew Ray wasn’t asking for much. He went through a year of chemotherapy and a stem cell transplant with more courage than anyone I have ever known. He wasn’t looking for sympathy or anyone to blame. He faced this disease head-on, like a man. His dream of becoming a SEAL had vanished and still, he wasn’t bitter. Even when the majority of his family failed to support him, or visit him, while he was in the hospital, he wasn’t angry. Ray is a simple, loving and forgiving man. He doesn’t for ask much in life, just to be loved. And Ray didn’t ask much from God while he was suffering in the hospital, only that he be well enough to come home in time to spend Christmas with his new bride who never left his side. Ray’s Christmas wish was granted. He recovered and was released from the hospital on December 20th. He made it home in plenty of time for Christmas. Thankfully, Ray and Brittny were able to share the blessing of life together on Christmas Day. This will always be a Christmas miracle for our family.
Ray continued to recover at home, taking precautions to stay well rested and to prevent illness. He was still at high-risk while at home due to his decreased immune system, so he continued to take immune deficiency drugs to help keep him healthy. On April 1st, 2011, three and a half months after the procedure, Ray was well enough to go back to the Navy on limited duty, with restrictions on his work abilities. Because he still had signs of cancer, he was placed in a Medical Advisement Board, which is a process where the military determines if he is fit to continue serving. The process that can take 6 months to a year to complete. Due to the length of time Ray was under medical treatment, he was found unfit to continue serving in the Navy and was medically retired. On October 24th, Ray was officially out of the Navy and on his way home to begin the next chapter in his life.
Now that Ray is home from the military, his goal is to readjust to life as a civilian and to get back into excellent physical condition. He would like to get back into mixed martial arts fighting. He had just begun training for MMA when he was diagnosed with cancer, so that had been put on the backburner. He is also planning to go back to school for mechanics, as he would love to open his own shop one day. In the meantime, he is enjoying life and being healthy. His outlook on life is simple: Enjoy every day of life and take nothing for granted. Life is filled with opportunities that anyone can achieve and never let anything stand in the way of your dreams. If you have a passion within you, make it happen. And don’t forget to stop and help someone else in need along the way. Your life will be more fulfilled for it.
Ray would like to thank the people who were supportive of him and helped him through his cancer: beginning with his wonderful wife, Brittny Ort, his family- especially his aunt Diane Mueller, his chain of command and brothers in the Navy: Christopher Brant, Cory Hottinger, Devin Englehart, Philip Henson, Richard Orbek, Kenny Wheeler and Kollin Galliano.
I would like to thank The United States Navy for discovering this terrible disease and for providing Ray the excellent medical attention that he needed. And thank you to the University of Wisconsin-Madison Hospital for the excellent care they provided Ray and for performing his life saving stem cell transplant. UW Hospital is a state of the art facility and the medical staff is all top-notch. Everyone was wonderful there, from the doctors to the nursing staff and aides. Thank you for saving my nephew’s life. My family will always owe a debt of gratitude for allowing him to continue to live in our lives.
As always, thank you to my sponsors: 911Strong.com and Big Rig Supplements for your continued support of me personal and my bodybuilding goals. You have opened doors for me that I never dreamed possible. And thank you to my mentor and coach, Jennifer Abrams (www.jenniferabrams.net) for your guidance and support, and for making me believe that even the sky is NOT the limit. And a special thank you to my friends at Steeltribe Muscle Gear Apparel. The Tribe is some most genuine and inspirational people I’ve had the privilege of meeting in the fitness industry.

Spotlight Interview: Melody Melo

2011-12-11T16:53:00.001-08:00

Melody Melo started powerlifting at the age of 12. It took her no time at all to realize she loved it...... and that she was damn good at it. To this day she continues to show how good she is at it, posting some amazing lifts and competition wins. Her newest goal is to compete in Physique. Her goal is to turn pro while still a teenage (she is 18). While that is a challenging goal and one that will not be easy, Melody has proven she can do the work and it would be very hard to bet against her.

Q: First, for those who may not be familiar, can you talk about how you got started in powerlifting?
A: I got started at age 12. My parents both did it. I took after my mother. My was the trainer for both of us. I went to one of her meets and as soon as she was done I said "I want to get involved in this". So ever since then I have been powerlfiting. It was different, especially for my age when I started.

Q: At that young age, did you have a lot of friends who were confused by your desire to work so hard at this?
A: Actually I did. I still do to this day. I always tell them if they are my true friend they will understand why I do this and the reason. It's something I love to do and I will never stop. So if you are a true friend you will stick by me.

Q: Did you lose friends over it?
A: I did, but I always kept good friends close to me. I have a certain amount of friends I keep close to me and they understand why I do this.

Q: Not just the age, but did you run into many people who said powerlifting was a "man" sport?
A: Oh of course. Going through high school I got negative comments and feedback. But I was raised to just push that aside and do what I love to do. If I had listened to that in eight and ninth grade I wouldn't be as successful as I am today. A lot of people say it's a man sport, but any woman can do what men do. It doesn't faze me when I hear that.

Q: A lot of people may not know just how much you have accomplished. For those people can you share some of your best lifts or achievements?
A: Of course. I started at age 12. I did my first meet at age 13. I would do all the local meets in New York. I probably did over meets. I have won every meet. First place in every single one. My record is at age 17 I deadlifted 500 pounds, I do where a suit, cause I sumo deadlift. I have not benched or squatted in a meet yet, but my records in the gym are I benched 350 and squatted 475 with the suit I wear to deadlift. So every competition I do, I go in with a positive energy. I have done three Pros vs Joe's with RX Muscle. I won in Chicago, and the one before that I won the one max deadlift challenge. I came in third in the rep competition in all three events. I did a strong woman competition at age 16 and came in third against top national competitors. Now that I am older and gained muscle maturity I want to get into Physique and am working on that now.

Q: What made you decide to compete and why physique over bodybuilding?
A: What made me decide to compete is, like any competitor in powerlifting or strong man, or anything, you can only do it for so long. Powerliftingtakes a toll on your body after so many years. I decided to do physique because I am only 5'1" an it's hard for me to gain so much weight and hold the right amount of mass. So my coach Stan Edffering who is known as the White Rhino, I was with him in Chicago over the weekend. I always wanted to do bodybuilding, but in reality I cant keep up with these women. me being my height and the muscle mass I have, physique is my best goal and a lot of people agree with that. Honestly, its more fun, with the posing, rather than Figure. Anyone who competes I respect, but I love the posing, routines and muscle mass.

Q: Are there any competitors you look up to?
A: Oh yes! I look up to Gina Stone. She is a physique competitor. I am very close to her. She has helped me out. And Dana Linn Bailey, who has her own line, Flag Nor Fail. Those are the two main girls I look up to and want to be on stage with.

Q: For you, what are the main differences in training for that and for the stage?
A: Its funny because I just started a diet so I will ease into it. With powerlifting, I can eat often, eat what I want and train how I want, focus on strength, rather than high rep and less weight. Training for physique is so much harder than getting ready for a meet. Because I can hold as much fat as I want and be as strong as I want, there are no limits. In physique you have to watch what you eat and how you train. So right now I focus on physique training.

Q: When do you want to be ready to compete?
A: Like I said, I started dieting when I got back from Chicago. I will do it for ten weeks. Dan wants me to do a show in may or April. its my first time dieting so I don't know what my body will look like. If he likes how I turn out or has to add something, we will. So I am dieting to see how my body looks. So maybe in spring time.

Q: If you were to look in a mirror right now, what improvements would you say you want to improve on your physique before you get on stage?
A: I have a lot, but my main ones are abs and build my delts, give them more shape. I have to stay off the body fat and have my body shape itself, bring out more definition pose more and get used to this lifestyle.

Q: I have seen some of your posing videos. Do you think people realize how hard it is to learn posing?
A: I will tell you what. When I was powerlifting I never thought of hitting a pose. It takes a lot out of you. People think is just posing. You have to hold them, hit it right, hit the muscle the judges want to see and hold the pose, hold the breath, squeeze, its hard, it takes a toll on your body. I have so much respect for people who can hold those poses on stage. I am prepping myself for that mentally and physically.

Q: You just started doing webcams on Her Biceps. Why did you start doing that?
A: When I do my webcam on Her Biceps, I keep it to a limit. I talk about my training, my strength, and do posing. Its to get my name out and show progress. I don't go on as often as others. I go on when I feel I am looking my best. It lets people know what you accomplished.

Q: You have some projects coming up, do you want to talk about that?
A: Yes I would love to. I am sponsored by SciLabs Nutrition. We just sponsored a new athlete, Eric Lilliebridge, he is a 21 year old powerlifter. He has a record 800 pound deadlift at age 18. I am working with him. We are doing a booth in March at the All natural show in Ohio and traveling all over. I have my own show coming out in January called Iron Princess show. Its about my lifestyle, how I train, interviews, training with people, traveling. I also work with Gas Face films. My producer and manager Rony is going to get all that together. I have my website launching. It will be linked with my online show. It will be unique, about me, my training and stuff. I will be getting ready for the Arnold's, and getting ready to compete as a physique competitor. That's my main focus now I do want to get my pro card as a teenager. I have two years for that. I have a fitness expo in Arizona January 7th. i will be a special guest with Eric. Doing demos, posing routine, and my own display table handing out supplements. My agenda is tight, but physique and diet come first.

Q: Before we finish, anyone you want to thank?
A: My family and friends, SciLabs Nutrition, RX Muscle, Species Nutrition, Iron Mulisha, Silks Athletics, Iron Asylum, Gas Face Films, Rony Orta, Eric Lilliebridge, my coach Stan Edffering and Dave Palumbo.

Spotlight Interview: Tamara Ashton

2011-12-06T15:04:00.000-08:00

Tamara Ashton is easily one of my favorite people in the fitness industry. Looking past her beauty and physique, you will find a nice and funny person. At Jr. nationals this year, things beyond her control caused her physique to not be what she wanted, however I still think she should have been placed higher, and you can bet that 2012 will be a big year for Tamara.

Q: Can you start out by talking about how you got started in the gym?
A: Well I got started in the gym, first I used to do kickboxing and Muay Thai just so I could get fit, cause I didn't know what in the heck I was doing. In June of 2008 I hired a trainer and she gave me a diet, I was injured and couldn't weight train at all. When I got cleared medically my trainer showed me how to do stuff. After I few months I was like "Wow", saw the results and one of my good friends, IFBB Pro Carin Hawkins really motivated me to train. I told her I was interested in at least trying one show and she sent me in the right direction and I have been hooked ever since.

Q: That sort of leads me to my next question. A lot of people say after the first show that they fell in love and kept doing it. Was that how you felt?
A: Yes it was.

Q: When you look back to when you first started, would you ever have imagined you would be where you are now?
A: Absolutely not! I had no idea I could accomplish or even look the way I look on stage. It blows my mind what we are able to do with our bodies if we are determined and push hard and work out.

Q: That first show, before you got on stage, were you nervous at all?
A: I was totally nervous. I had never even been to a Bodybuilding show. I had no idea what the heck I was doing. I remember talking to the girls backstage and was like "Oh God what do we do". It was totally nerve racking.

Q: You did Jr. nationals this year. I have told you I thought you deserved a better placing, but you weren't happy with how you looked. What weren't you happy with?
A: I was holding a ton of water. Had been having some health issues and I think it made my body hold the water. When you look watery on stage, you look fat on stage, even though I had eleven percent body fat at the most.

Q: When you are on stage, and not happy like that, is it hard to keep a smile on your face?
A: At the end, when they do call outs it is. You are thinking to yourself "I worked hard, pushed myself, did all I needed to do". In my case even my coach said "You kicked your butt in the gym, it was never a matter of you didn't do cardio, didn't do workouts, didn't do diets. Your body was fighting You". So for me, in my head I said "I just need to practice posing and stage presentation. So that's what I focused on at that point.

Q: Even though it was as he said, your body fighting you, is there anything you can look back on and say "Maybe if I did this different"?
A: I am gonna guess and say maybe if I stayed on my birth control pills, that maybe my body wouldn't have fought me, which is funny because most girls are not on birth control when they compete, but everyone is different.

Q: You mentioned to me you would be better at Team Universe. Is Team U still the plan?
A: I'm not sure. I believe I need to re-qualify and do a Regional show. Because I live in California I wanna do USA's cause it's really close and then figure out what other National show I wanna do.

Q: Physique wise, anything you want to improve for 2012?
A: I want to cap off my shoulders better, make them rounder. And bring down my legs a little. I am very fortunate to be able to put on muscle very easily, especially my legs, so I need to bring those down a little bit.

Q: Would you ever consider Physique or are you happy with Figure?
A: I've thought about Physique, but I really do like Figure better and think my lines and body proportion are better for Figure.

Q: Safe to say a Pro card is the ultimate goal?
A: Yes definitely.

Q: If for some reason that never happened, are you satisfied with all you accomplished?
A: Yeah I think so. I pushed myself harder than I ever did. If you asked me three years ago if I would be competing I would have said no. So I am happy with all I have accomplished thus far.

Q: You also do photo shoots, is there anything specific you like about doing that?
A: I love creating the art and getting to see the final pictures. Its a piece of artwork but also proof that this is what I looked like one day haha. When you are fifty years old you can say "This is what I used to look like" haha.

Q: On stage or in front of the camera, do you have a preference?
A: No I love them both.

Q: Obviously you are attractive and look great. At the gym, do you get a lot of unwanted attention at the gym?
A: Actually nobody talks to me at the gym haha. The only people that say hi are the people who work there and see me every day. No one else talks to me.

Q: Do you think its an intimidation thing?
A: That's what I have been told by other friends. SO I guess they are intimidated. I'm not sure why cause I am a very nice person, but that's ok.

Q: You always seem to have a great sense of humor. Is that accurate?
A: Very accurate.

Q: Sometimes people are intimidated by competitors, do you feel your attitude makes you more popular with people?
A: Its possible. I am not really sure. Life is short and bad things happen all the time, so you gotta enjoy life and laugh while you can.

Q: Before we finish anyone you want to thank or mention?
A: I want to thank my family and friends. My sponsors NorCal Bodybuilding, Lana's Egg whites and Quest Bar.

NAAFS Combat Challenge 17 Report

2011-12-04T15:23:00.001-08:00

On December 3rd NAAFS presented Combat Challenge 17. With only the all Female Eve of Destruction left on the schedule for 2011, this was the final card of the year for the male fighters. And the NAAFS ended the year with a great card. Some great fights and some incredible finishes. Windom Craig, Adam Bosley and Devontae Smith made good impressions and for the second time in two fights I was very impressed with Adib Nour.
In addition to my own scoring, I have included the scoring of my new writer Landry Yankle.

1. Amateur Featherweight
Josh Flowers (0-0 Bullpen) vs Brandon Leininger (0-1 VIP D-Boyz)

RD 1: Jab by Flowers They clinch and a takedown by Flowers. Leininger lands from the bottom. Flowers tries to posture up but can't. Flowers now is able to posture up but doesn't do any damage. Flowers stands and lets Leininger up. Two hard hooks by Flowers and Leininger pulls him down with Flowers on top. Flowers gets side control but Leininger pulls guard. Leininger tries for a arm but Flowers lands hammer fists to get the arm out.
I scored RD 1: 10-9 Flowers
Landry scored RD 1: 10-9 Flowers

RD 2: Leg kick by Flowers. They clinch and move to the cage. Takedown by Flowers. Head shot by Flowers. Leininger tries for an arm but can't get it. The ref stands them. Push kick and takedown by Leininger. Flowers tries for an arm but can't get it. Leininger looks for a guillotine but Flowers pulls out. Hammer fists by Flowers. Flowers looks tired here.
I scored RD 2: 10-9 Leininger
Landry scored RD 2: 10-9 Leininger

RD 3: Hard hook by Flowers. They clinch and Leininger lands knees. Takedown by Flowers. Flowers gets side control. Knees to the body by Flowers. Leininger gets guard. Leininger uses wrist control to avoid damage. The ref stands them. Hook by Leininger. Takedown by Flowers. Flowers lands a punch. Flowers stands. Leininger jumps into him and pulls guard. Both fighters appear exhausted. Flowers stands. Push kick by Flowers followed by a takedown.
I scored RD 3: 10-9 Flowers
Landry scored RD 3: 10-9 Flowers
My score card: 29-28 Flowers
Landry's score card: 29-28 Flowers

Result: Josh Flowers by Unanimous Decision (30-27/30-27/30-27)

2. Amateur Heavyweight
Adib Nour (1-0 Dojo Fight Club) vs Zack Byrd (0-1 Damage Inc.)

RD 1: Hard hook by Nour drops Byrd. Nour lands two more shots on the ground and the ref stops it.

Result: Adib Nour by TKO at :06 of Round 1

3. Amateur Bantamweight
Dustin Bertch (0-0 Jamestown MMA) vs Jose Alvarado (0-0 VIP D-Boz)

RD 1: Leg kick by Alvarado. Takedown by Bertch. Bertch postures up and lands shots. Bertch pushes him to the cage. Punches by Bertch. Alvarado gets an armbar but Bertch pulls him up and slams him to break the hold. Bertch gets his back and a rear naked choke for the tap.

Result: Dustin Bertch by Tapout (Rear Naked Choke) at 2:44 of Round 1

4. Amateur Lightweight
Derrick Hill (0-0 Dojo Fight Club) vs Nick Brown (0-0 Uniontown Fight Club)

RD 1: Both land leg kicks. Jab and hook by Brown. Clinch by Hill and he lands a knee. They separate. Punches by Brown. Takedown by Hill. They stand right back up. Hard hook by Brown. Takedown by Brown but Hill is looking for a guillotine. Body shots by Brown. Brown escapes the guillotine and lands hard punches. More hard shots by Brown. Brown gets his back and lands more shots. The ref stands them. Clinch in center of the cage and a knee by Brown.
I scored RD 1: 10-9 Brown
Landry scored RD 1: 10-9 Brown

RD 2: Clinch on the cage and the quickly separate. They clinch again and quickly separate. Brown lands punches. They clinch against the cage. Hill is cut and bleeding pretty bad over his eye. The doctor comes in to check the cut and they stop the fight.

Result: Nick Brown by Doctor Stoppage at :51 of Round 2

5. Amateur Heavyweight
Josh Fox (0-0 Dojo Fight Club) vs Tim Miller (1-0 Bullpen)

RD 1: Leg kick by Miller. They trade hard shots and clinch against the cage. Body shots by Miller. They separate and a hard hook by Miller. They drop down and Miller stands and drops hard shots. More hard shots by Miller. Miller continues landing hard punches. They stand and clinch against the cage. Uppercut by Miller and they separate.
I scored RD 1: 10-8 Miller
Landry scored RD 1: 10-8 Miller

RD 2: Uppercut by Miller. They clinch against the cage Body shots by Fox. They separate and Fox lands a hard hook. They clinch on the cage and Fox takes him down and get his back. Now he tries to get his hooks in. Hard punches by Fox. Miller rolls and gets on top but the round ends.
I scored RD 1: 10-9 Fox
Landry scored RD 1: 10-9 Fox

RD 3: Leg kick by Miller. Cross by Miller hurts him. Fox tries for a takedown but a sprawl by Miller. Body shots by Miller and they stand. Fox tries for a single leg and finally gets it and then gets his back. Miller gets on top and pushes him to the cage.
I scored RD 3: 10-9 Miller
Landry scored RD 3: 10-9 Miller
My score card: 29-27 Miller
Landry's score card: 29-27 Miller

Result: Tim Miller by Unanimous Decision (30-27/29-28/29-28)

6. Jason Gomez (0-0 Independent) vs Seth Schaffer (0-0 Instigator Fight Team)

RD 1: Leg kick by Gomez and another. Kick to the body by Schaffer. They clinch on the cage and quickly separate. Gomez shoots in and slams him. They scramble and stand. Clinch against the cage and a hook by Schaffer. Spin kick by Gomez. Gomez tries for a single and they clinch on the cage. Body shots by Schaffer. Knee by Schaffer. Gomez drops down and Schaffer gets in his guard. Schaffer stands and drops down a body shot and then gets his back. Body shots by Schaffer and then head shots. Schaffer hooks a rear naked and gets the tap.

Result: Seth Schaffer by Tapout (Rear Naked Choke) at 2:54 of Round 1

7. Amateur Middleweight
Ben Meese (0-0 Caldwells Fight Club) vs Nick Corp (0-0 Evolve MMA)

RD 1: Both fighters doing a lot of circling and feinting. They clinch and move to the cage. Takedown by Corp. Corp gets mount and lands lots of punches till the ref stops it.

Result: Nick Corp by TKO at 1:10 of Round 1

8. Amateur Bantamweight
Corey Simmons (2-2 VIP D-Boyz) vs Tim Enright (3-1 USA Martial Arts)

RD 1: Jab and cross by Simmons. Enright shoots but gets stuffed. Leg kick by Simmons. Takedown by Simmons. Simmons gets side control. Enright pulls guard. Simmons stands and lets Enright up. Jab by Enright. Leg kick by Enright. Slam by Enright into side control. Enright is trying for a choke and then moves to mount and lands punches.
I scored RD 1: 10-9 Enright
Landry scored RD 1: 10-9 Enright

RD 2: Both land shots. Leg kick by Enright. Enright goes for a single leg but Simmons hooks a guillotine for the tap.

Result: Corey Simmons by Tapout (Guillotine) at :55 of Round 2

9. Amateur Lightweight
Devontae Smith (0-0 Brickhouse MMA) vs Jon Looft (0-0 Evolve MMA)

RD 1: Push kick by Smith. Takedown by Smith. Hammer fists by Smith. Smith stands and drops punches and Looft is out cold.

Result: Devontae Smith by KO at :30 of Round 1

10. Amateur Middleweight
Travis Rivers (0-0 Empire Academy) vs J.T. Miller (0-0 Strong Style Fight Team)

RD 1: Hook by Rivers. Jab by Miller and he gets a slam. Miller gets side control. Rivers gets half guard. Rivers holds him close to avoid damage. The ref stands them. Slam by Miller into side control. Knee to the body by Miller. Rivers pulls guard. Miller gets his back and then gets mount and lands punches.
I scored RD 1: 10-9 Miller
Landry scored RD 1: 10-9 Miller

RD 2: Punches by Rivers. Leg kick by Miller. Miller shoots in but can't get the takedown. Miller shoots in again and gets caught in a guillotine. Miller escapes and is in half guard. Two body shots by Miller. Rivers holds him close. Miller gets mount and lands shots. Miller gets his back and lands punches to the head. Miller gets a rear naked for the tap.

Result: J.T. Miller by Tapout (Rear Naked Choke) at 2:44 of Round 2

11. Amateur Light Heavyweight
Darryl Chajon (0-0 Strong Style Fight Team) vs Jacen Huss (2-0 Uniontown Fight Club)

RD 1: They trade shots. Huss lands a kick low but the ref missed it. Jab by Huss. Jab by Chajon. Hook by Huss and another. Both land jabs. Leg kick by Chajon. Jab and cross by Chajon. Leg kick by Chajon. They clinch on the cage and both land knees. Foot stomp by Chajon. Knees by Chajon. Two knees by Huss. Body shots by Huss. Knees by Chajon.
I scored RD 1: 10-9 Chajon
Landry scored RD 1: 10-9 Chajon

RD 2: Leg kick by Chajon. They trade hooks. Jab by Huss. Cross by Chajon. Hook by Huss. Front kick by Chajon. Body shots by Huss. Kick to the body by Huss. Took by Huss. Jab by Huss. They clinch on the cage and Chajon lands a knee. Punch to the leg by Chajon. Body shots by Huss. Knee by Huss. The ref separates them. Jab by Chajon.
I scored RD 2: 10-9 Huss
Landry scored RD 2: 10-9 Huss

RD 3: Hook by Huss. They clinch on the cage. Both land knees. More knees by both fighters. Body shots by Huss. They separate and trade hooks. Leg kick by Huss. Takedown by Chajon. Two body shots by Chajon. Huss tries for an arm but Chajon pulls out. Chajon stands and both land hooks.
I scored RD 3: 10-9 Chajon
Landry scored RD 3: 10-9 Huss
My score card: 29-28 Chajon
Landry's score card: 29-28 Huss

Result: Darryl Chajon by Split Decision (29-28/28-29/29-28)

12. Amateur Lightweight
Estabon Cordova (2-0 Jamestown MMA) vs Adam Bosley (3-2 Uniontown Fight Club)

RD 1: Jab by Cordova. Takedown by Bosley. Head shots by Bosley. Cordova tries for an arm. Cordova pulls guard. Body shots by Bosley. More shots by Bosley. Bosley pushes him to the cage. Head shots by Bosley. They stand. Bosley goes for a takedown and gets it and the ref takes a point from Cordova for holding the cage. Head shots by Bosley. Bosley is bleeding pretty bad from the head.
I scored RD 1: 10-8 Bosley
Landry scored RD 1: 10-8 Bosley

RD 2: Jab by Bosley. Kick to the body by Bosley. Takedown against the cage by Bosley. Head shots by Bosley. Body shots by Bosley. Bosley lands two elbows to the head, clearly not intentional, but the ref misses them. More body shots by Bosley. The ref stands them. Leg kick by Bosley. Hard hook and uppercut by Cordova. Takedown by Bosley.
I scored RD 2: 10-9 Bosley
Landry scored RD 2: 10-9 Bosley

RD 3: Uppercut by Cordova. Takedown by Bosley. Cordova looks for a choke but can't get it. Hard shots by Bosley. More hard shots. Cordova tries to wall walk and get up but can't. The ref stands them. Bosley is bleeding from the mouth. Cordova looks exhausted. Bosley shoots in and gets a takedown. Not much action here. Knee to the body by Bosley.
I scored RD 3: 10-9 Bosley
Landry scored RD 3: 10-9 Bosley
My score card: 30-26 Bosley
Landry's score card: 30-26 Bosley

Result: Adam Bosley by Unanimous Decision (30-26/30-26/30-26)

13. Amateur Featherweight
Luke Burdette (2-4 Gracie Pittsburgh) vs Bhrandon Poindexter (6-7 Evolve MMA)

RD 1: Leg kick by Poindexter and another. Takedown by Burdette. Head shots by Burdette. They stand and Poindexter lands a leg kick. Body kick by Poindexter. They trade hard shots. Hard kick to the body by Poindexter. Hard punches against the cage by Poindexter has Burdette hurt. Burdette clinches but Poindexter pushes him off. Burdette drops him with a hook and gets on top but the round ends.
I scored RD 1: 10-9 Poindexter
Landry scored RD 1: 10-9 Poindexter

RD 2: Both lands hard shots and clinch on the cage. Takedown by Burdette. Body shots by Burdette. Head shots by Burdette. More to the body by Burdette. Burdette gets north south position but Poindexter is able to stand. Burdette takes him back down. Head shots by Burdette. They stand and clinch on the cage. Burdette drops down and gets a double leg and lands shots to the head.
I scored RD 2: 10-9 Burdette
Landry scored RD 2: 10-9 Burdette

RD 3: Kick to the body by Poindexter. Leg kick by Poindexter. Cross by Poindexter. They clinch against the cage. Burdette trying hard for a takedown and finally gets it. Not much happening here. Body shots by Burdette. Poindexter pulls him close. Head shots by Burdette. Burdette gets side control. Poindexter is able to stand. Burdette clinches and takes him down. Poindexter tries for an arm but the round ends.
I scored RD 3: 10-9 Burdette
Landry Scored RD 3: 10-9 Burdette
My score card: 29-28 Burdette
Landry's score card: 29-28 Burdette

Result: Luke Burdette by Unanimous Decision (29-28/29-28/29-28)

14. Amateur Featherweight
Chris Dunn (7-2 Team Genocide) vs Wes Hanson (4-0 Butch Hiles MMA)

RD 1: Hard hook and takedown by Hanson. Hanson gets side control and then mount. Great scramble by both fighters. Dunn is bleeding bad. Dunn pulls guard. Body shot by Hanson. Great scramble by Dunn to get up. The doctor is checking Dunn's cut and they stop the fight.

Result: Wes Hanson by Doctor Stoppage at 2:09 of Round 1

15. Amateur Middleweight
Zac Gobel (6-4 Dragons Den) vs John Lepovich (3-1 PTT)

RD 1: Leg kick by Lepovich. Takedown by Gobel into side control. Gobel gets mount and lands head shots. Lepovich holds him close. Gobel gets his back and a rear naked for the tap.

Result: Zac Gobel by Tapout (Rear Naked Choke) at 2:05 of Round 1

16. Amateur Heavyweight
Ashford McQueen (2-2 Team Genocide) vs Windom Craig (4-2 Strong Style Fight Team)

RD 1: McQueen charges in and they clinch. McQueen drops him with a hook and gets on top, but Craig reverses and gets on top. McQueen is looking for a guillotine but Craig pulls his head out and gets mount. Craig lands head shots. McQueen gets up and they clinch. Craig hurts him with punches and a hook drops McQueen to end it.

Result: Windom Craig by KO at 1:55 of Round 1

Submission of the Night: Zac Gobel

KO of the Night: Devontae Smith

Fight of the Night: Ashford McQueen vs Windom Craig

Diane's Diary by Diane Mueller

2011-11-30T10:47:00.000-08:00

Have you ever wanted something so badly that your heart actually ached, or that it felt like you were missing a piece of your soul? And no matter how patiently you waited, you still were left wondering, “Why not me? Haven’t I been a good person? Haven’t I done everything I was supposed to do? Then why am I left with this empty space in my heart when everyone around me feels fulfilled?” This is exactly how my friends, Darlene and John Zeutzius felt when they were trying to conceive a child only to be disappointed time after time, when it seemed like everyone around them were able to create life with relative ease. Even people who didn’t seem to be deserving of the privilege of being parents were making babies. Yet they held fast to their faith as they continued to walk through life, until one day, when an amazing path was laid out before them and their lives would be forever changed.

Their remarkable story begins back in 1995 when they were married. They’ve both always known that they wanted children, and lots of them, because they both came from large families. Within their first year of marriage they suffered through the agony of two miscarriages and Darlene lost one of her fallopian tubes in the process. The doctors assured them that this wouldn’t make it impossible for them to conceive, but it certainly would make it more challenging. After struggling for five more years with no more pregnancies, numerous tests and different medications, they finally conceived their miracle child. In 2000, God answered their prayers and gave Kyla Mae to them. While she was pregnant, Darlene promised God that if He allowed her to carry this baby to term, that she would be happy and content. Life was good after the birth of Kyla; they spoiled her and their little girl everywhere with them. Even though they were happy and enjoying life, they still felt like something was missing in their lives. They felt bad raising an only child. They wanted her to have a sister to share secrets with, or a brother to make her strong and tough. But more than that, who would be there for her after Darlene and John were gone. Even though they promised God they would be satisfied with just one child, now that they’ve experienced the incredible joy of parenthood, they couldn’t help but wish for another.

Traditional adoption is always a consideration for couples who are unable to have children, but it’s a very expensive proposition, and this was especially true for Darlene and John. The expense for adoption was well beyond the amount their budget could afford, so they would have had to take out a loan to complete the adoption and still be able to afford to raise the child. No matter how many ways they considered this option, they just couldn’t make it work out. Again, they were left feeling disappointed and tried to make peace with the fact that perhaps they were only meant to have one child. Just when it appeared that Kyla was destined to be an only child, a ray of hope appeared in their lives. It began with a conversation with one of John’s cousins at a family gathering. They talked for hours with this cousin about the foster care program, in which she was in the process of adopting a 5 year old boy that she had been fostering. This conversation left Darlene feeling very hopeful and inspired her to research the program further. Several months later John’s cousin died and while at the funeral, Darlene observed this young boy crying over her coffin, missing his new mom. Shortly after the funeral, John and Darlene attended an adoption class and were awed when they saw a vision of John’s cousin sitting in the back row. They took this as a sign from God that their predestined path was to continue forward in the foster care program and they became licensed foster parents.

They had a few different children with them during their time as foster parents, some long term and some just on the weekends, but each instance taught them different parenting skills and they also learned which situations were conducive to their family dynamic and which situations didn’t work very well. It also gave Kyla the opportunity to discover what it would be like to be a sister. Although they loved sheltering children in need, soon it became evident that it was becoming too emotional for their family. It was too much heartache to live with the uncertainty of bringing children into their lives that had to go home. It was also taking too much of an emotional toll on their own little girl who was looking forward to having a sibling, and then continually coping with the disappointment when the children would leave. Then during one of their foster care training programs the topic of “special needs adoption” was presented and explained. The term “special needs,” with regards to this program, doesn’t refer to children who have a mental or physical impairment; instead, it refers to children who are considered at higher risk because they come from an uncertain background. These children were in the foster care system due to having been abused themselves, or having seen abuse occur, were exposed to drug abuse, prostitution or poverty. Some of these children have lived in the streets or halfway houses, or have been taken from the care of their parents due to domestic abuse or some other situation that was unsuitable for a child to be raised in. While other children may have been born with illegal drugs in their system, or may have medical needs such as; ADHD, RAD or asthma. The adoptive parents are able to choose the degree of special needs they are willing to accept, as this is a lifelong commitment.

John and Darlene filled out their paperwork for the Special Needs program in the spring of 2009 and then began the waiting game. They applied to adopt one special needs child, but would be willing to consider more if it meant keeping a family together. In early December, they attended a healing ceremony at their church. As they kneeled before the altar, they squeezed each others hands and prayed. Unbeknownst to each other at the time, they both prayed for exactly the same thing. They both prayed for God to heal whatever was preventing them from having more children and to heal the empty spot in their hearts. As the minister placed his hands on them to pray for them, Darlene felt an unexplainable feeling course through her. She quietly sobbed to herself as she sat through the remainder of the service. At this point, she had thrown her hands up to the Lord and asked for His help. Two weeks later, Darlene received a phone call from their social worker stating the agency had found a match for them. They had a 7 year old girl, 4 year old boy and a 15 month old boy who needed a home. Darlene and John went in the next day to read a bio on each of the children, little did they know, the bios would only consist of one paragraph per child. The company required them to take a day to consider whether or not they wanted to meet the children based upon reading these bios, as meeting the children meant they were going to proceed to adopt them, unless there was a significant issue that arose during that meeting. They both knew they were going to say “yes,” but per the agencies instructions, they agreed to wait and talk things over. Due to the holidays, however, they weren’t able to meet their new children until the first week in January. Even though the three children were half-siblings, they were each living in separate foster homes; so in essence, the children were meeting each other at the same time they were meeting their new parents. On this initial meeting, they all laughed and played for hours and they instantly knew this was meant to be. They were given immediate weekend visits and the children were permanently placed in their home by January 26th.

The children needed to live with their new parents for 6 months as foster children to ensure a smooth transition into their new daily lives. This also gives the children and parents the opportunity to decide if full adoption is the result they all desire. At the end of July, Darlene and John petitioned the courts for adoption and received an adoption date of September 28th, 2010. They appeared in court on that specified date as a foster family and walked out of the courtroom as an official family. Darlene and John were now the proud new parents of: Sasha, AJ and Tavi; and Kyla was finally a big sister. With the stroke of the judge’s gavel, they went from being a family of three to a family of six and all was right with the world. They were officially one big, happy family.

In December of the same year, they received a phone call from their social worker advising them that the children have an 8 month old half-brother in foster care and the agency was wondering if they would consider taking him in. The agency knew that taking in Ty would be a huge impact on the family, but legally, they needed to ask. The only concern they had was what the odds of the adoption being finalized were. They didn’t want to integrate their little brother into their home, only to have him removed later on. They couldn’t allow their children’s heart to be broken in that manner. Upon further review of Ty’s file and investigating other options, Darlene and John were informed that it would be a struggle to adopt him, as there was a father involved, but he needed to be placed in a home regardless. If he didn’t get placed in their home, he would have to be placed somewhere else. Being the loving people that they are, Darlene and John brought him home and he’s been with them ever since. Nine months later, Darlene and John are still working on adopting Ty, but the legal issues are in their favor. (The adoptions of the other three children occurred quicker and more easily because the children were in the custody of the state of Wisconsin, meaning that the parental rights were already terminated. Conversely, Ty is in the foster care system and in the custody of Milwaukee County, so it is a longer process due to parental rights still being dealt with.) Despite any difficulties they have encountered, Darlene and John are thrilled to be the parents of each one of these children. The children call Darlene and John, mom and dad, and the children call each other, brothers and sisters. They are all one cohesive, loving family and that is a bond that will never be broken.

The Zeutzius family would like to give a special thanks to: Children’s Social Services of Wisconsin in Milwaukee and their personal social worker, Nichole Watts. They would also like to thank: Lutheran Social Services and their social worker, Nikki Thompson. For more information, they can be contacted at: Lutheran Social Services of WI & Upper Michigan, 3003-A N Richmond Street, Appleton, WI 54911. This has been an incredible, life changing experience for Darlene and John and their only regret was that they didn’t learn about the program earlier. Now instead of having an empty heart, Darlene has a heart that is overflowing with a love and happiness that can’t be explained. Everyone who has met their children will attest that they are some of the most loving, energetic, intelligent, creative and forgiving souls, and they will change the way you view the world. “So whenever we are in need, we should come bravely before the throne of our merciful God. There we will be treated with undeserved kindness and we will find help.” ~ Hebrews 4:16

As always, thank you to my sponsors: 911Strong.com and Big Rig Supplements for your continued support of me personal and my bodybuilding goals. You have opened doors for me that I never dreamed possible. And thank you to my mentor and coach, Jennifer Abrams (www.jenniferabrams.net) for your guidance and support, and for making me believe that even the sky is NOT the limit. And a special thank you to my friends at Steeltribe Muscle Gear Apparel. The Tribe is some most genuine and inspirational people I’ve had the privilege of meeting in the fitness industry.

Candice Carr-Archer Interview

2011-11-25T11:33:00.000-08:00

Q: First, Candice, I want to thank you for taking the time to do this.
A: You are most welcome. Thanks for asking me.

Q: Can you start out by telling a little about yourself?
A: I am from the island of Trinidad in the Caribbean (It is actually Trinidad and Tobago with Trinidad being the larger of the two islands). I am the elder to two (2) sisters and my sister and I were both tom boys when growing up so we were always very active.

Q: Before the gym were you an especially athletic person? Play any sports or
anything?
A: I did martial arts (Shotokan) for several years before bodybuilding

Q: What initially led you into the gym?
A: I wanted to get stronger for martial arts, lol.

Q: Was training something you picked up fairly easy? How long before you started to see results?
A: I picked it up fairly easy but the results were slow in coming, mainly because I was learning and reading as I went along, not really knowing about the proper diet, training methods etc.

Q: What made you decide to compete for the first time?
A: I simply made up my mind to get involved in bodybuilding and entered the Junior Nationals.

Q: Is competing something your family and friends supported?
A: Yes my family and friends supported me and still do till this day :-)

Q: Was competing what you expected or did anything surprise you about it?
A: Competing was not as I expected. What surprised me really was the prep as I didn’t imagine is was so tough!

Q: Can you share your contest history.
A: My contest history is as follows:
2011:
*Tampa Pro, Tampa, Florida 17th Place
*Pro Bodybuilding Weekly Europa Battle of Champions 14th Place
2010:
*Tampa Pro, Tampa, Florida 14th Place
2009:
*World Amateur Bodybuilding and Fitness Championships, Como, Italy
14th Heavy Weight
*Overall winner, Gold Medal over 55kg, Gold Medal Masters
Central American Champions (CAC) Body Building Championships (Grenada)
*Earned Pro Card
*2nd Place Senior National Body Building Championships
2007:
*Gold Medal & Overall Winner, Eastern Caribbean Body Building Championships (Trinidad)
*1st Place Senior National Body Building Championships
*World Amateur Bodybuilding and Fitness Championships, Santa Susanna, Spain (NP)
2006:
*Gold Medal & Overall Winner, Eastern Caribbean Body Building Championships (Anguilla)
*Gold Medal & Overall Winner, Lawrence Marshall Annual Body Building Championships (Trinidad)
2003:
*Gold Medal & Overall Winner, Eastern Caribbean Body Building Championships (Trinidad)
2002:
*1st Place Senior National Body Building Championships
*Bronze Medal Heavy Weight Central American Champions (CAC) Body Building Championships (Venezuela)
2000
*3rd Place Senior National Body Building Championships
1999
*1st Place Junior National Body Building Championships
*2nd Place Senior National Body Building Championships
1998
*2nd Place Junior National Body Building Championships

Q: As far as body parts, what do you feel is your best one?
A: I would say my back and shoulders as I always had a broad back and shoulders!

Q:Do you have a part you most like to train?
A: I like training chest the most.

Q: What is your normal training routine and diet like and how do you alter it for contest prep?
A: I don’t have a ‘normal’ training routine in the off so to speak, in that I vary my routine every 4weeks in an attempt to shock my body to grow. I do not put on muscle very easily thence that approach e.g. 4weeks of power moves, 4 weeks heavy training, 4 weeks active rest etc.
Pre-contest it is a little more normal in that its each body part being trained twice a week, super sets, and an hour cardio every day

Q: When someone sees your physique or hears you compete for the first time,
what is the most common reaction? More positive or negative?
A: In Trinidad the reaction is more negative but when I travel abroad peoples’ reaction are more receptive.

Q: When they see it that first time, what is the one question or comment you
are most sick of hearing?
A: I am sick and tired of being asked how much I bench press and do I beat up on men :-)

Q: What is the biggest misconception about women who train and compete or the one thing you wish people understood?
A: There are too many misconceptions about female bodybuilders so I will simply say that bodybuilding is a more than a sport it is a life style in that year round training is maintained geared toward making the necessary improvements. Additionally diet is also a key component year round as a fairly clean diet is required to avoid a high body fat percentage.
I wish people understood the vast amount of sacrifice, discipline, dedication, determination, training that goes into attaining the sculptured physiques that grace the stage.

Q: What is the best and worst part of training for you?
A: There is not a worst part of training for me as I enjoy training and pushing myself. The best part is that I can train :-)

Q: Do you have any favorite competitors or any you admire?
A: The bodybuilders I admire: Competing presently - Iris Kyle (down to earth lady) and Johnny Jackson (A real gentleman). Retired competitors Rosemary Jennings (words cannot desire the gem of a person she is) and Lenda Murray (I wanted to look like her as a teen)

Q: Do you have a favorite cheat food?
A: Chocolate Chip Cookies and Coca Cola

Q: If another woman told you she wanted to start training, what is the one
piece of advice you would most want to give her?
A: There are many pieces of advice that would be applicable, ranging from diet and training to rest and supplementation but what I would say is be true to you. On the journey toward your goal there will be many an obstacle that can take various forms and, there will be times when you feel you cannot go on. In times like that I suggest just what I said earlier ‘be true to yourself’ and persevere, make your goals, dreams a reality. It is not easy, far from but consider the alternative of regret and a life of thinking what if!

Q: Do you think it’s becoming more common for women to use the weights as
opposed to just doing cardio and things?
A: I would say it has already more common place for women to use weights. There is a lot more information about the benefits of weight training as there was let’s say two decades ago and women have experienced the benefits first hand and the ‘trend’ has taken root.

Q: Outside of training, any other hobbies or activities you enjoy?
A: I love going to the movies and the beach.

Q: Can you describe a typical day in the life of Candice Carr-Archer?
Lol, A typical day a something that I don’t really have since I am in the military and anything can happen :-). For the most part I get to the gym for 5:30am, after training head to base. If I am not on overnight duty I will do either cardio or a combination of weights and cardio in the evening. If am on overnight, weight training is out until maybe the following evening.

Q: Describe Candice Carr-Archer in five words.
A: Determined, straight forward, kindhearted, committed and happy.

Q: What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
A: That I listen to Opera and classical music :-). The three tenors is my favorite.

Q: Any set plans for the near future as far as competing or anything else?
A: I am still trying to decide if I should switch from body-building to physique.

Q: Anything you want to take this opportunity to plug or promote?
A: I want to take this opportunity to say express some gratitude:
I thank God for giving me the health, strength and life to purse my dreams, with him I am nothing.
Thanks to my Mom, sister Gizelle, husband Derek, my friend and trainer Roland, my sister from another mother Rosemarie Jennings and her husband Alex Ramirez for being more that trainers to me but treating me as part of the family.
Thanks also to the people who have simply smiled and spoken a kind word…….a little can go a long way.

Q: Are you looking for sponsors? If so how can they reach you and what are they getting in Candice Carr-Archer the athlete and competitor?
A: Yes I am looking for sponsors and I can be reached via email (musclecandi@aol.com). With me you are getting more than athlete and competitor, you are getting a well-rounded individual with a passion for what she does

Q: Candice, again, I thank you for taking the time to do this. Any last words before you go?
A: Simply thanks again for taking the time to chat with me.

Qawnana Crockett IFPA PRO World Championships Interview

2011-11-25T11:11:00.000-08:00

Q: First Qawnana, thanks for taking the time for another interview.
A: THANK YOU AGAIN FOR THE OPPORTUNITY.

Q: For those who may not be familiar, can you tell a little about yourself.
A: MOM, COACH,FITNESS PROFESSIONAL, STYLIST, MAKE UP ARTIST..........

Q: You recently competed. Can you share with people what show you did and how you did.
A: YES, I COMPETED IN THE 2011 MUSCLEPHARM IFPA PRO WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS HELD IN MARYLAND. I PLACED 3RD IN THE FIGURE SHORT CATEGORY.

Q: How did you feel about your chances after pre judging?
A: HONESTLY, I HAD NO IDEA BECAUSE EVERYONE LOOKED SO GOOD!

Q: How do you decide which shows you want to do?
A: WELL, IT USUALLY DEPENDS ON WHAT MY KIDS HAVE GOING ON BECAUSE THEY ARE BOTH ATHLETES AS WELL. IT STILL ISN'T ALWAYS EASY BECAUSE LIKE THIS YEAR, BOTH KIDS AND I OVERLAPPED WITH OUR ACTIVITIES, SO WE WERE ALL MISSING SOMETHING OF ONE ANOTHER OCCASIONALLY.

Q: Looking at last year and this year, what do you feel you have made the biggest improvements on?
A: DEFIANTLY CONDITIONING, AND LEANNESS. OVER THE PAST 6 YEARS, THAT HAS BEEN THE MOST CONSISTENT FEEDBACK, GET LEANER, SO......I DID!

Q: Is there anything you feel you need to improve on for the next year?
A: YES, I HAD MORE SIZE AND DENSITY IN MY UPPER BODY BEFORE, I WANT TO GET THAT BACK SO I CAN BALANCE OUT WITH MY LEGS.

Q: Do you ever compare yourself to others before you actually step on stage?
A: ABSOLUTELY NOT. I ACTUALLY THINK IT'S REALLY SILLY. WE ARE ALL DIFFERENT AND WE ALL HAVE OUR STRONG POINTS AS WELL AS OUR CHALLENGING ONES. AS A COMPETITOR, YOU JUST HAVE CONFIDENCE IN WHO YOU ARE A WHAT YOU ARE BRINGING TO THE STAGE AND LEAVE THE REST.

Q: How was the prep for the show?
A: IT WENT PRETTY WELL, I DID CATCH THE FLU DURING PEAK WEEK, BUT SEVERAL OF US GOT SICK, SO I KNEW I HAD TO PUSH THROUGH, SHAKE IT OFF, AND KEEP GOING. OTHER THAN THE FLU, IT WENT WELL, ALMOST TOO WELL!

Q: What is the changes you make to your routine for prep?
A: FOR THIS SHOW, I HARDLY EVER DID CARDIO (NO I'M NOT COMPLAINING EITHER). OUTSIDE OF TEACHING MY LATIN/HIP HOP DANCE CLASS TWICE A WEEK, I DIDN'T REALLY DO CARDIO.

Q: Whats the hardest part of the prep process for you?
A: I COACH CHEERLEADING FOR THE YOUTH FOOTBALL LEAGUE, SO COACHING 13 GIRLS (INCLUDING MY DAUGHTER), TRAINING FOR THIS SHOW, TRYING TO ATTEND MY DAUGHTERS TRACK MEETS, AND SUPPORT MY SON'S FIRST YEAR IN HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL WAS THE HARDEST, AND MOST STRESSFUL. I COULD NOT WAIT FOR ALL OF OUR SEASONS TO END SO WE COULD ALL TAKE A BREAK

Q: Whats the first thing you ate once you got off stage?
A: WHEN I GOT HOME, I ORDERED PIZZA. I ATE 1 SLICE, AND PASSED OUT! IT WASN'T REALLY UNTIL HALLOWEEN 2 DAYS LATER THAT I GOT TO INDULGE IN TOOTSIE ROLLS :)

Q: Does it take a win for you to be happy, or is just making improvements the thing you look to accomplish?
A: FOR ME IT'S ABOUT KNOWING I BROUGHT MY ABSOLUTE EVERYTHING TO THAT STAGE, IT SHOWS AND IT WAS REMEMBERED WHEN THAT SHOW IS OVER. WE ALL WANT TO WIN, WE ALL DEAL WITH SOME FORM OF DISAPPOINTMENT (SOME MORE THAN OTHERS) IF WE DON'T PLACE FIRST. WHEN I DON'T PLACE FIRST, I TAKE A STEP BACK AND I LOOK AT ALL OF THE VARIABLES THAT WENT ALONG WITH PREPPING FOR THAT SHOW. I AM ONLY NOT HAPPY WITH MYSELF IF I KNOW I DIDN'T GIVE MY VERY BEST AND IT MAY HAVE CONTRIBUTED TO MY PLACING. EVERYONE'S PREFERENCE ON WHAT THE FIRST PLACE BODYBUILDER OR FIGURE COMPETITOR SHOULD LOOK LIKE IS ALWAYS GOING TO BE DIFFERENT, AND EVERYONE IS GOING TO HAVE AN OPINION. THERE COMES A POINT WHEN YOU JUST HAVE TO TAKE THE FEEDBACK AND MOVE ON, AND NOT LET IT STOP YOU IN YOUR TRACKS. THIS SPORT HAS TO BE ABOUT MORE THAN THAT FIRST PLACE WIN, IT SHOULD BE ABOUT PROGRESSION AND CHALLENGE.

Q: Whats the last thing you think about right before you step on stage?
A: RIGHT BEFORE STEPPING ON THE STAGE AT THE SHOW, 3 WORDS.....I......DID....IT!!! THIS YEAR WAS MY 3RD ATTEMPT AT WANTING TO COMPETE IN THE WORLDS. ILLNESS AND MAJOR SURGERIES STOPPED ME BOTH IN 2009 AND 2010. SO IN MY OWN WAY, THIS WAS MY "COME BACK". I WAS JUST SO THRILLED I FINALLY MADE IT, AND EVEN WITH THE FLU I FELT MY ABSOLUTE BEST :)

Q: Where there any competitors you shared the stage with who impressed you?
A: WELL, WE ALL HAD TO QUALIFY JUST TO COMPETE IN THIS SHOW, SO I WAS IMPRESSED WITH EVERY SINGLE PERSON I SHARED THE STAGE WITH THAT DAY.

Q: Do you get nervous at all before you get on stage?
A: OH GOODNESS! SO NERVOUS, I WANT TO PASS OUT LOL!! BUT AS SOON AS MY MUSIC COMES ON AND I TAKE THAT FIRST STEP, IT'S ON!

Q: Do you try and read judges reactions while on stage or just focus on what you are doing?
A: NO, I'M USUALLY TOO BUSY TRYING TO MAINTAIN MY COMPOSURE ON STAGE AND KEEPING MY SMILE. I WOULD JUST FREAK MYSELF OUT EVEN MORE IF I FOCUS ON THEM.

Q: How important is support from family and friends during the prep process?
A: IT IS REALLY UNREALISTIC TO ASK FAMILY AND FRIENDS TO UNDERSTAND WHAT I DO. I APPRECIATE ANY SUPPORT I CAN GET AND AS LONG AS THERE IS NO NEGATIVE ENERGY I'M GOOD. I HAVE PRETTY PROUD, AND SUPPORTIVE FRIENDS AND FAMILY. I HAVE NEVER HAD A PROBLEM LETTING THEM KNOW WHAT I NEED TO SUCCEED, AND THEY USUALLY UNDERSTAND.

Q: Finish this sentence. In five years Qawnana Crockett will be__?
A: MORE DRIVEN, PASSIONATE, AND SUCCESSFUL THAN I AM TODAY NO MATTER WHAT I AM DOING.

Q: When you are done competing, how would you like Qawnana Crockett the competitor to be remembered?
RESPECTFUL, DRIVEN, HELPFUL, FRIENDLY, AND A TOUGH COMPETITOR.

Q: Anything I missed you want to talk about?
A: I'M SURPRISED YOU DIDN'T ASK ME ABOUT MY PLANS FOR NEXT YEAR........LET'S JUST SAY BIGGER AND BETTER :)

Q: Anything you want to plug or promote?
A: MOST PEOPLE KNOW I AM A POSING AND CONTEST PREP COACH, BUT MOST PEOPLE DON'T KNOW THAT I ACTUALLY DO STAGE MAKE UP AS WELL! I GUESS YOU CAN SAY I AM A JACK OF ALL TRADES :)

Q: Qawnana, again, thanks so much for doing this. Any last words before you go?
A: WORK WITH WHAT YOU HAVE, NOT AGAINST IT