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How did you get started with bodybuilding?

I first fell in love with weight training in 2000, when I lost almost 50 lbs after giving birth, I wasn’t really making any real improvements as I was not eating enough. In 2005, I met a couple of local figure girls who invited me to a posing seminar. After witnessing the amazing physiques, I knew competing was something I really wanted to do. At the time, I was not ready to take it to that next level. In 2006, I tracked down a girlfriend of mine, Alexandra Porshnikoff, and asked her to train me for my first show. She happily agreed, and I made my debut at the 2007 Steel Rose in Sacramento CA. Although getting ready for a competition was one of the harder and most out of body experiences I had ever experienced, I wanted more… and have been competing ever  since.

Where does your motivation come from?

My motivation really just comes from my heart. None of this was easy for me, and I’ve had to work for every little thing I’ve accomplished in this sport. I think that is what drives me to always focus on the next step and to push myself to higher limits. The end result is always so amazing and rewarding, especially when you’ve had to work really hard for it.

What is your training philosophy?

Train smarter not harder. I learned that the hard way!

If you have to pick only 3 exercises what would they be and why?

• Sprints: Because they are an awesome over-all exercise, and really great for not only conditioning legs but for full-body.
• Shoulder Presses: Because these are essential for sexy and round delts!!!
• T-Bar Rows: This is one of my favorite exercises for back thickness

When trying to cut down do you prefer to use HIIT or just normal cardio?

A combination of both HIIT and regular cardio as I am able to get the best of both worlds.

What is your philosophy on nutrition?

Switch it up! My trainers (Cameron and Tracy Bodner of Total Package) review and adjust my nutrition plan every two weeks in the off-season, and weekly when I am preparing for a show. Also don’t forget Nutrition is #1.

What are your favorite meals and foods?

Definitely breakfast: Oatmeal and protein powder mixed together. My boyfriend taught that one to me! Any meal with carbohydrates is a favorite! Chicken and brown rice are another favorite.

Favorite cheat food?

If I get a cheat meal, it would be pizza, ice cream, or anything chocolate!!!

What supplements do you use that give you great results? How do you use them?

I usually use True Protein protein powder throughout the day and True Protein waxy maize for post workout carbohydrates. I also take a lot of vitamins since the diet can be very restrictive. I use multi-vitamins; vitamin C, D & E; calcium; magnesium; essential fatty acids (EFAs); branch-chain amino acids (BCCAs); evening primrose; glucosamine & methylsulfonylmethane (MSM); glutamine; and melatonin.  

Favorite Bodybuilders?

I’m very focused on figure and love Jennifer Gates. Another favorite is a local pro and personal friend of mine, Akane Nigro-Ismeal. I’ve watched her do exactly what she told me she would do when she started. She is an inspiration. As far as bodybuilders go, I’m partial. My favorite bodybuilder is my boyfriend, Michael Sausedo, who has worked very hard to get to where he is today. He has been in the industry for a long time and has a true love for it. He also is an inspiration and doubles as my sounding board and backbone.

Favorite Quote?

“They can because they think they can.” –Virgil

This quote says it all for me. If you think you can? You CAN and you WILL!
Bodyspace: http://bodyspace.bodybuilding.com/Intofigure1978/

Photo Credit: Gene X Hwang Photography

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