Why Ronda Rousey Deserves Her Title Shot

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.