Wednesday, March 28, 2012

Michele Levesque

Hi, let me introduce myself. I am Michèle Levesque, a training addict. If you want to know more about me, read these lines. I come from Bromont, a small village known as the capital of mountain biking and skiing. My parents were always active and instilled a love of physical fitness in me from a young age. I devoted myself to several sports such as gymnastics, figure skating and, of course, biking and skiing. I have always had an intense temperament and am always on the lookout for a new challenge, a new obsession. For years, I let off steam in track and field, where I progressed from the sprint to running 30 kilometres on the road! Running was my drug, my inspiration, my decadence, my release, until the day when I had to have surgery for knee problems. My world fell apart and I lapsed into gloom and despair. I had lost my best friend. My passion for weights and dumbbells developed from the time I was in rehabilitation for my knees. Aside from running, lifting weights was the only way I got satisfaction. At first slowly, then with growing intensity. I had discovered my second obsession! I set about being reborn and wanted to know everything about nutrition and training. One day while leafing through magazines, I told myself that one day I would be the person on the cover! But first I had to find a good coach to lead me to the top. Francine Savard of Proactif lit my path. That is when a beautiful love story was born between her and me. The passion for training! I have now lived in Montreal for about ten years. I came here to study kinesiology at the Université du Québec à Montréal and continue in massotherapy. I have worked in this profession for five years. In the near future, I see myself on the cover page of a magazine and I plan to return to studies in physiotherapy. On Competiting: I have been dreaming of competing for a very long time. I continued to dream and let time pass by until last November when I participated and WON my very first competition! The biggest challenge was to increase my self-esteem and confidence. I realized how important the spiritual side was and then it finally clicked. If I wanted to feel good on the outside, I had to feel great on the inside. I eliminated all my negative thoughts and concentrated on serenity and peace. Only then did I finally find the mental strength and assurance I needed to achieve my dreams. This competition has been a learning experience. By believing in myself, I reached perfect harmony between my body and mind.

Tuesday, March 27, 2012

Spencer Locke

Born in 1991 in Winter Park, Florida, Spencer began to show an interest in the arts at a young age. When asked in school to draw what she would be when she got older, 6 year old Spencer drew herself on-stage with a star over her head. Two years later, she had enrolled in acting classes and immediately started booking numerous television commercials in the Orlando, Florida area. With sights set high, 11 year-old Spencer and family set off to Los Angeles to pursue her dreams. Within a year's time, she booked a guest starring role on CBS's "Without A Trace" and a role in Sony Pictures' feature film "Spanglish". Shortly thereafter, Spencer began recurring as "Bitsy" on the Nickelodeon series "Ned's Declassified School Survival Guide". In 2004, Spencer stole the hearts of producers Robert Zemeckis, Steven Speilberg and director Gil Kenan and won the lead role of "Jenny" in Sony Pictures / Imagemovers' feature film, "Monster House". This was one of the first "Motion Capture" films of the time. She was nominated for an Annie Award for her role role as "Jenny". At 14 years of age, Spencer booked the lead role of "K-Mart" in "Resident Evil: Extinction". Her character lived to see the 4th installment, "Resident Evil: Afterlife", which was released in 2010. Spencer has guest starred in numerous television shows throughout this time such as "Cougar Town", " In Plain Sight", "Vampire Diaries", "Cold Case", and "Love Bites". She most recently filmed a movie for Lifetime called "Bling Ring", which airs this summer. In 2008, Spencer filmed an independent mini-series called "Twentysixmiles" which is looking for distribution. Spencer has also had the opportunity to be a part of a couple of independent films such as "Karaoke Man", and has a lead role in Joseph Kahn's "Detention", which has recently been acquired by Sony Films for worldwide distribution. Spencer lives in Los Angeles with her family and looks forward to a bright future. IMDb Mini Biography By: TalentOne Management Trivia Attended the Maile School. Other Maile School graduates include: Mandy Moore, Catherine Mangan, James Greye, Shannon McGinnis, Arielle Kebbel and Phil Moore.

Monday, March 26, 2012

Rachel Melvin

Rachel Melvin graduated from Mountain Pointe High School in Phoenix, Arizona in 2003, before moving to Los Angeles to pursue a career in entertainment. In just a few short months, she began booking various roles in television and feature films, starting with her debut performance as "Meg" in the independent horror film, Boo (2005). After guest star appearances in the then-WB's "Jack & Bobby" (2004) and "Summerland" (2004), as well as on ABC's "8 Simple Rules" (2002), Rachel booked a contract role playing "Chelsea Brady" on NBC's "Days of Our Lives" (1965). Following two consecutive Daytime Emmy nominations for the Outstanding Younger Actress category, Rachel left the world of soaps in May 2009, after four years, to pursue other acting opportunities. Since then, she has appeared on NBC's "Heroes" (2006/II) as "Annie", Claire's (Hayden Panettiere) college roommate, and can be seen in the Lifetime Movie Network's original mini-series, "Seven Deadly Sins" (2010). When not working, Rachel spends her days in Los Angeles, where she resides with her Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, "Murphy". When not acting, she devotes most of her time to dancing and singing. She also makes it a priority to remain active in her support and contribution to two charities very important and close to her: "The American Diabetes Association" and "Samantha's Friends". She hopes to eventually write a children's book, where the proceeds go to both of these organizations. Rachel moved to Los Angeles to pursue an acting career immediately after graduating from high school in Phoenix, Arizona in May 2003. She booked her first audition in early 2004 for the independent horror film, Boo (2005), playing the role of "Meg", and has since continued to work steadily on various commercials and episodics. She is most known for her portrayal of the character, "Chelsea Brady", on NBC's "Days of Our Lives" (1965). Trivia Born in Elmhurst, Illinois, but raised in Phoenix, Arizona Graduated from Mountain Pointe High School in May of 2003 Has an older sister named Jessica Landed her first audition as the character, "Meg", in an independent feature titled Boo (2005). Moved to California after winning a 600 dollar jackpot in a casino game of bingo; the last day she was able to gamble before Arizona State law changed the gambling age from 18 to 21 Turned down a full ride scholarship to ASU to pursue a career as an actor Was only in one high school play because she devoted most of her time to the school's dance company Plays the violin Contemplated going to school to become an interior designer Graduated from Mountain Pointe High School in Ahwatukee, Arizona Moved to California immediately after graduation to pursue a career in acting She and her family appeared as contestants on "Family Feud" (1999), when John O'Hurley was hosting.

Sunday, March 25, 2012

Nicole Eccel

IFBB Birthday November 14, 1987 About Atleta de Bodyfitness e Personal Trainer / Figure Competitor and Personal Trainer Biography "O candidato a campeão tem que ter atitude de atleta, determinação, aferro e disciplina física e mental. Qualquer leigo ao vislumbrar Nicole, jamais poderia imaginar sua genética e sua força interior que a fez mudar completamente o seu corpo e sair do anonimato..." (Waldemar Guimarães / Champions Creator) "If you always do what you always done, you`ll always get, what you always got." Awards Vice-Campeã Brasileira Bodyfitness IFBB 2010 Campeã Copa rio Sport Show IFBB 2010 Vice-Campeã Brasileira Bodyfitness IFBB 2011 Campeã Copa rio Sport Show IFBB 2010 3a colocada Campeonato Sul-Americano IFBB 2011 Top 5 Arnold Classic Europe 2011 Gender Female Personal Information Revista Muscle Inform Revista Movimento Muscular(capa/cover) www.waldemarguimaraes.com.br/?p=377 facebook.com/NicoleEccel Email nicoleeccel@hotmail.com Website http://facebook.com/NicoleEccel

Saturday, March 24, 2012

Madison Riley

Name: Madison Riley Full Name: Madison Riley Aplanalp Birth Name: Madison Riley Aplanalp Nickname: Madison Date of Birth: 16 March 1990 Place of Birth: Salt Lake City, Utah, USA Sign: Pisces Height: 1.75 m Hair: Blonde Eyes: Blue Madison Riley born on March 16, 1990 in Salt Lake City, Utah, USA. She is an American actress. The day when the actor Madison Riley saw this world at the first time was March 16, 1990. The sign of zodiac of the actress is pisces. The place of birth of Madison Riley is Saul – Lake – City, Iota, USA. The actress has three favorite genres of the movies. They are: comedy, family and musicals. From the early childhood Madison Riley dreamed about the acting career. She performed some children plays for her parents, relatives, friends and neighbors. Her parents said that when they saw their child performing the children play, they had understood that their girl was born to become a star. So they helped Madison Riley to go through the away to her dream to become a legandary actress. So Madison Riley participated in the shooting of fourteen movies. The first movie where, Madison Riley was involved was the series, which was called “Till Death” 2006-2010. In 2007 the actress participated in the movie, which became very popular among teenagers. This film was titled “Bratz”. The last film, where Madison Riley played is “Prom” in 2011.

Friday, March 23, 2012

Tara Hollingsworth

Location Birmingham, AL Affiliation International Federation of Bodybuilders Birthday November 30, 1970 About IFBB Figure Pro, passionate about fitness, motivated by good people Gender Female Personal Information Sponsored Athlete of ProBody Solutions.

Thursday, March 22, 2012

Raechelle Chase

Auckland, New Zealand Birthday September 10 About Official fan page of IFBB Pro Figure Raechelle Chase Personal Information I am an IFBB Pro Figure Competitor, International Fitness & cover Model and Fitness Writer. But my most important role is as a Mother to 3 beautiful children. Dior-Rose 3yrs, Carlos 5yrs and Annaliese 11yrs. I believe we can pick our seat in life and I choose to sit on top of the world. I will do my best to reach out and bring anyone I can just as high! Personal Interests I love weight training, competiting, shopping, travelling and most of all I love my family. Email raechelle@raechelle.co.nz

Wednesday, March 21, 2012

Christy Hemme

Christy Hemme Biography After an exhaustive search and competition that included thousands of hopefuls, Christy Hemme, the red-haired California sparkplug, beat out Carmella Decesare and won the $250,000 RAW Diva Search. Alias's: Christie Hemme Birthday: October 28, 1980 Hometown: Los Angeles, CA Marital Status: Single Weight: N/A Height: 5 feet 55 inches Hair color: Redhead Eye Color: Blue Measurements: 34C-25-35 In early 2005, rumors of Chirsty Hemme posing for Playboy surfaced, and without a doubt, it was true. The WWE used this opportunity to promote Wrestlemania. For promotion, she would spark a feud with the WWE Women's CHampion; Trish Stratus After weeks of creative competitions and colorful interviews, Hemme earned the adulation of the voting fans and was able to outlast Carmella. Hemme’s first post-competition appearance wasn’t as celebratory. Trish Stratus, Gail Kim and Molly Holly turned her party into an impromptu 3-on-1 Bra & Panties Match, which she promptly lost. Still, staying true to her spirited personality, Hemme recovered and strutted around the ring to the crowd’s approval. Since that fateful first match, Christy has been blazing a trail at WWE. At Taboo Tuesday she took down Carmella in a lingerie pillow fight. Hemme has quite a professional resume. The 5-foot-5 beauty has done numerous commercials and was a beloved “Juggy” dancer on Comedy Central’s “The Man Show.”

Tuesday, March 20, 2012

Natalie Gulbis

Full Name: Natalie Anne Gulbis Birthday: January 7, 1983 Hometown: Sacramento, CA Vitals: 5'9", Blonde, Blue-Green Eyes Play: Right-Handed The P's My dad, John, recently retired from his position with the Sacramento County Probation Department and now travels with me to all my events and really helps me maintain a sense of family on the tour. My mom, Barbara, is a purchasing director for a medical laboratory in the Sacramento area. My Game From the very beginning it seemed like I was drawn to golf. Starting at the age of 4, I would tag along with my dad to the local Sacramento courses and picked up the game from him. By age 7, I won my first tournament, and by age 10, I was breaking par. Growing up I tried to be an all-around athlete, also competing at the high school level in diving and gymnastics. I achieved level 8 in gymnastics, which is only three below Olympic level, but my heart was in another sport. I continued to really love playing golf, and in high school (Granite Bay HS) I actually played No. 1 singles on the Men's golf team which was a little awkward at first, but everyone really welcomed me and it was a lot of fun. I finished second in the California State Women's Amateur at 13 in 1996, losing in the final to current LPGA player Dorothy Delasin, but I turned it around the following year, beating Delasin in the 1997 final. At age 14, I was the youngest player to qualify for an LPGA event (Michelle Wie at the age of 12 broke that mark in 2002), playing in the Longs Drugs Challenge just 10 miles from my home, which was a very exciting experience. I went on to finish high school in three years, and graduated at the age of 16. After high school I received a scholarship to play collegiate golf at University of Arizona, the defending NCAA champs at the time. As an Arizona freshman in 1999, I won three tournaments and earned All-America honors. The summer before my sophomore year would turn out to be a major turning point in my golfing career. First, I made the cut at the US Women's Open and went on to tie for 34th place as an amateur. Shortly thereafter, I earned female MVP honors at the USA-Japan Collegiate Golf Championship. Based on my success during that summer and the opportunity to make a living playing golf, I decided to turn professional after only one year of collegiate golf and attempt to make the LPGA Tour by heading to Q-School later that fall. The success I had during the summer followed me to the fall in Qualifying School, where I won my sectional qualifier by eight shots and tied for third in the final, which meant I had made the Tour fully exempt. 2002 marked my rookie year on Tour. I had a great learning experience, traveled to new cities, and met some really great people and new friends along the way. I ended up finishing second in Rookie of the Year points, and most importantly, found a permanent home on Tour where ever since I have been living my dream! ~Natalie

Monday, March 19, 2012

Jelena Ristic

Jelena Ristic is the girlfriend of Novak Djokovic and they've been together since about 2005. They've been through the tennis star's biggest ups and downs and today they must be celebrating an epic win at the Australian Open! The match was the longest Grand Slam singles final in the history of the sport and Djokovic ended up winning 5-7, 6-4, 6-2, 6-7 (5), 7-5 after 5 hours, 53 minutes. This became his third Grand Slam title in a row, and the sweet victory came at at 1:37 a.m. local time! He's only the fifth guy in Grand Slam history to win three titles in a row. After a long nap, we imagine he and Ristic will have some celebrating to do! Nadal has lost seven straight finals against the Serbian star since March. He also lost to Djokovic at both Wimbledon and the U.S. Open last year. It's got to be a disappointing loss, but the match will go down in history and Nadal is still one of the top players in the world.

Sunday, March 18, 2012

Alicia Esteban

Alicia Es­teban, female bodybuilding champion in Na­tional ​Cup of Spain IFBB 2010 celebrated іn​ ​San Fernando (Cadiz). — Alicia Esteban, campeona de fisicoculturismo femeni­no еn ​la Copa Nacional dе​ España FEFF-IFBB 2010 cel­ebrada en San Fernando (Cádiz).

Saturday, March 17, 2012

Essence Monet

HOW I STARTED:After getting out of an abusive relationship the last thing I wanted was to have to go to an actual therapist and talk about all my problems. So instead I started working out and found that now only was it an inexpensive form of therapy but it was the best therapy I have ever experienced. Soon enough I got bit by the competition bug and decided to give it a shot. I got started with a trainer at the gym, who is now my best friend, and got ready for a show. I didnt do that great but have been working at it ever since and havent looked back. I love this! View MoreWHY I LOVE IT:I like the adrenaline rush when I work out because no matter how stressed out I am, I know that the gym is always there to make me feel better. Its a friend that will always be there no matter what. The gym will never lie to you or turn its back on you. Its always there to let you vent and take your frustration out. The iron stays the same no matter how hard you go. This is one friend that will always stay the same no matter what.

Friday, March 16, 2012

Candice Lewis

When she took the stage at the NPC Jr. Nationals she was the clear cut winner in the Figure division, at least in my book. Candice Lewis is has the genetics that’ll make you do a double take. She’s beautiful, tall and well balanced. Combine that with polished stage presentation, a tiny waist and tight booty… well you have yourself a pro. This weekend at the Ft. Lauderdale Cup, Candice Lewis from Arizona will make her IFBB Figure debut. Candice never finished lower than first while in the amateur ranks. She’s one to watch as she could make an immediate impact in the pro ranks. I caught up with “Candy Girl” and she shared more about herself. Name: Candice Lewis Born in: Chandler, Arizona Currently Reside in: Chandler, Arizona Any nicknames: Candy. My dad calls me candy girl. It’s cold when the temperature gets below: 70 Clearly you haven’t spent much time in the Midwest. LOL Favorite Sport: Football Favorite football team: AZ Cardinals Did you play any sports growing up: I ran track since I was 11 years old. I ran cross country and I was a cheerleader in high school. What did you want to be when you grew up: A ballerina Favorite past time: Playing tether ball in school. Those still exist? Sweet. Tether ball rocks. Favorite band/artist: Rihanna and Darius Ruckus Do you like Darius as Hootie or on his own doing country? Darius doing country. Even though Hootie had some good jams back in the day. Do you get asked about often when at the grocery store? The clerks always ask me while I’m checking out at the grocery store “is this what I have to eat to be skinny” Any hidden talents? I think I can sing. Are you the oldest, middle or baby of the family? I’m the 2nd oldest of 10 What’s your family think of you competing and becoming a pro? My family loves it. They are very supportive. My little sisters always call over their friends when I come visit them. They finally think I’m cool. How did you get into figure competitions? I meet my trainer one day working out. It was all history from there. Competition History: Arizona local show 07′ 1st overall, California State 1st overall 11′, Tournament of champions 08′ 1st overall 09,Pacific Naturals 08′ 1st overall, jr nationals 1st overall 11′ How much does your weight vary between shows? About 5 pounds. I loose weight once I stop lifting. What’s a sample of your daily eats look like? 5 Egg whites – 1/2 cup of oats 5oz fish 4oz 3-5 asparagus and 1/2 cup rice 5oz ground turkey Biggest challenge dieting for a show? Not to over eat on the yams.. I just love them. Yummy. What’s your favorite body part to work out? Legs What’s the key to building a kick ass set of wheels? Lunges and lunges with weights and more lunges and squares. How do you feel you look compared to Jr. Nationals en route to your pro debut? I’m more balance and I feel I have a more mature look. Because I been lifting more. How important has having a trainer been for you? It’s one of the most important parts for me. Damian Sagovia keep me motivated on my off days. If you could give other women some advice on staying healthy and fit what would it be? My advice would be to make staying health and fit apart of your everyday life. Like brushing your teeth. Do you enjoy modeling? I enjoy modeling because it gives me a chance to inspire people to workout. What do you do to “get into the zone” of model? Music gets me in the zone for anything. Goal for the industry: I would like to make this my career. They say “Do what makes you happy and you’ll never work a day in your life.” I couldn’t agree more with that quote. If 10 years you’d like to…? Be a fitness model help people to live a health fit life. How can people find you? Icandylewis on twitter. Anyone you’d like to thank: God, friends and family My trainer Damian Sagovia fb friend. The NPC & IFBB and you, Isaac Hinds for this interview. All the best, you have a bright future ahead! Check out a few photos of Candice here. I was born July 27, 1984 in chandler, Arizona. I currently live with my dog fhenix he’s a Yorkshire terrier. I have always been an athlete growing up. I ran track since I was 11 years old; in high school I ran track, cross-country and was a varsity cheerleader. That is when I was introduced to lifting weights. Since then I have been in love with weight training. I’m a professional fitness model and I live very passionately about health, wellness and women athletics. I’m dedicated to improving women’s lifestyles and empowering them with strength and confidence to be their very best physically and mentally. As the oldest of ten sisters and brothers, I was pushed into being a role model at a very young age. This taught me to lead by example. How long have you been competing? Was it hard for you to get into the industry? In June 2007, I made my debut in figure; I got 1st in my class and won the overall trophy. Joining the NPC made getting onto the fitness industry real easy, it’s pretty much laid out for you. I would tell anyone starting out get information on where there local NPC shows. Or go to www.npcnewsonline.com Did you train with a trainer or just on your own? I have always had a trainer. I feel it’s important to have someone to push you to the next level. Someone that pushes you when you feel you’ve done your best. My Trainer name is Damian Segovia he deserves just as much credit for my achievements than I do. You have become a role model for up and coming fitness competitors, how do you view that role? It’s amazing to be considered as role model. It’s such an honor and it means so much to me. It’s important for me to be a role model to myself that’s what reflects off to other people. IFBB Figure Pro Candice Lewis Future Goals IFFB Figure Pro Now that you are a IFBB Figure Pro, what to do you hope to do next in the industry? Qualify for the Olympia, compete in the figure international, and win a pro show. In addition, to just competing. I hope to stay in this industry for a long time and make a career out of what I love doing. Advice for Becoming an IFBB Figure Professional Do you have any advice for anyone who is looking to become an IFBB professional? Indeed, what I have learned in this industry is, no Matter what be yourself. It takes hard work and determination and it will pay off. The results may not come when you want them to, but keep focused and you will get there. Ok Candice, the burning question: What’s on the top ten playlist on your iPod? I love a variety of music. My top ten right now would be; Adele- Rolling in the deep. Rihanna-we found love. Fantasia- Bittersweet. Darius Rucker -It want be like this for long. Jasmine Sullivan- Need you bad. Jennifer Lopez- Get on the floor. Rihanna- Only girl in the world. Alexandra Stan-Mr. Saxo. Rodney Atkins- Take the back road. Rick Ross -Tears of Joy. Thank you for your time Candice, I want to end by letting you tell the readers anything additional you would like them to know that we didn’t cover: Whatever your fitness goal are make sure you surround yourself with a good support system. My favorite quote ” Those who believe they can do something are probably right – & so are those who believe they can’t.

Thursday, March 15, 2012

Wagna Vargas Savietto

Location Bragança Paulista, Brazil
Birthday October 1, 1982
About ✔ Verified Official Page ✔ Facebook Certified █║
Biography "A vida não melhora por acaso, ela melhora por escolha ...."
Awards Vice-campeã Brasileira IFBB Bodyfintess 2011
Vice-campeã Brasileira IFBB Bodyfitness 2010
Campeã Paulista IFBB Bodyfitness 2009
Gender Female
Personal Information Atleta IFBB
Atleta Performance Nutrition
Personal Interests Patrocineo

Chady Dunmore

Chady Dunmore is one of the most well respected fitness experts in the world and is the go-to source for women who are trying to lose weight and exercise. Her unique combination of discipline and encouragement sets Dunmore apart from other trainers and translates into results. She is the perfect mix of empathy and accountability because she knows firsthand the challenges women face and what it takes to motivate them. After gaining more than 70-pounds during pregnancy and battling severe postpartum depression Chady had an aha! moment when she realized that being a mom did not mean she had to feel fat an unattractive. She knew that traditional workouts would pose a challenge with her infant daughter so she exercised at home and lost all the baby weight without setting foot in a gym. Now, in addition to training world-class athletes, Dunmore creates diet and exercise routines for new moms and women who don’t have a lot of time. Dunmore is a two-time bikini world champion and a top fitness model who graces the covers of Oxygen, Fitness RX and more. She gives diet and workout advice to the largest print and broadcast outlets and teaches sold-out fitness camps all over the country. Dunmore’s story inspires women to make a change. She’s battled weight, struggled with genetic kidney disease and managed to get in shape without relying on fad diets and extreme exercise routines. Her fitness confession? She loves bacon avocado cheeseburgers and never dreamed of posing in a bikini until a plastic surgeon told her she didn’t need stomach surgery but diet and exercise. She accepted the challenge, entered her first competition in 2008 and has never looked back. Dunmore is currently training, writing a new book, designing a sportswear line, teaching fitness camps all over the country and being a mom. Specialties Fitness Model, Fitness training, bikini competitor, fitness competitor, spokesperson, modeling, cover model, sponsored athlete, product endorsements, social media, fitness camps, health and wellness, diet

Wednesday, March 14, 2012

Stacey Pillari

Stacey Pillari VITAL STATS Name: Stacey Pillari E-mail: staceypi@yahoo.com Age: 43 Where: Wilmington, NC Height: 5' 1" Weight: 118-120 Off, 105-108 On Years Bodybuilding :24 Favorite Bodypart: Legs Favorite Exercise: Lunges Favorite Supplements: Lean Dessert, Atro-Phex How Did You Get Started? My high school athletics and sports conditioning coach and friend's mother (who was a bodybuilder) helped me. I was also inspired by Rachel McLish and how beautiful she made muscles look! What Workout Plan Worked Best For You? Monday - Legs: Leg press superset with full squats Leg extension superset with sissy squats Weighted lunges Hamstring curls superset with straight leg deadlifts Weighted step-ups superset with plyometrics Calves Tuesday - Shoulders: Dumbbell press Full range lateral Front plate raises Incline isolated lateral raises, slow Bent over seated rear delts superset with rear delt pulls Arnold presses Shrugs Wednesday - Back: Wide-grip pull-ups Seated cable rows superset with wide-grip pulldowns Reverse grip pulldowns One arm dumbbell rows Hyperextensions, weighted Thursday - Chest: Flat bench dumbbell press Incline machine press Flat bench dumbbell flyes Cable crossovers superset with Pullovers Pushups Friday - Arms: Straight bar or ez bar curls Seated incline Supinated dumbbell curls Hammer dumbbell curls Skull crushers Pushdowns Weighted bench dips Saturday: Sprints on beach Suday - Rest Throughout the week I also do abs and various types of cardio including: boxing, stairmill, treadmill max incline, short runs on the beach or hardcore plyometrics for legs. What Nutrition Plan Has Worked Best For You? I eat every 2 hours (off and on season) and try and drink 1 ½ to 2 gallons water every day. Off season I take more carbs and my protein stays up. I include 2 cheat meals a week. On season I back off of carbs and have only 1 cheat meal a week. I eat lots of egg whites, protein shakes, grilled chicken, tuna or turkey, flank steak, clean oats, sweet potatoes, green beans, asparagus, almonds, salads w/balsamic dressing, brown rice and ezekiel bread. Cannot forget to take vitamins! Vitamin E, C, Omega's, multivitamin, and a B-Complex to help metabolize food. What Supplements Have Given You The Greatest Gains? Allmax Glutamine Optimum Nutrition Whey Protein MuscleTech Creakic Creatine during the off season. Why do you love Bodybuilding? I like keeping my body looking and feeling strong. I think the lines in the male and female physique are beautiful and, if not excessive, can be graceful. It keeps me young! What Are Your Future Bodybuilding Plans? I'm just coming back from surgery on my elbow so I've just started to lift again and put my size back on to hopefully once again compete in the Arnold Classic 2009. From there I would like to do the Jr. USA again also. I competed in figure in 2008 in both of these events, and was told by the judges that I should switch to light weight bodybuilding. So that is what I have been training for. My goal is to maintain femininity while still being competitive, as many of the female bodybuilders are once again starting to do. What One Tip Would You Give Other Bodybuilders? Take it easy on the joints, tendons and ligaments. Remember just because your muscles are strong and you can lift the weight doesn't mean your joints, tendons and ligaments can support it and handle it without injury. Use correct form. Focus on symmetry and don't forget to build the weaker areas of your body instead of concentrating on your strong ones to get by. You don't have to be the "biggest" to win! Look at Dexter Jackson and Nicole Ball for example! Females... you can still look feminine! Who Are Your Favorite Bodybuilders? Present Bodybuilders: Victor Martinez, who is a great friend, and to me has the most beautiful physique out there! His symmetry is awesome! Toney Freeman is next. Also incredible symmetry and grace. Nicole Ball who is also a friend and inspiration... she is small but she is mighty! And she is still beautiful! Past Bodybuilders: As most would say... Arnold! He was and still is amazing! Rachel McLish inspired me to get into Bodybuilding at the age of 19 so she is also on my list. Beautiful, feminine, and strong, great legs!

Tuesday, March 13, 2012

Monica Specking

Monica Specking Height5ft 3in Weight114 lbs HomeJonesboro, Arkansas, United States of America OccupationExercise Science Student, IFBB Figure Pro Websitehttp://bodyspace.bodybuilding.com/MonicaS/ InformationMonica won the Figure Overall at the 2010 NPC Nationals and was awarded her IFBB pro card. NameMonica Specking View all 122 pics of Monica Specking here! Participated in the following shows* ContestPlacePics? 2011 IFBB Fort Lauderdale Pro4thview 12 pics 2011 IFBB Olympia16thview 25 pics 2011 IFBB California Pro Figure7thview 11 pics 2011 IFBB Pittsburgh Pro Figure & Bikini7thview 8 pics 2011 IFBB 1st Phorm St. Louis Pro Bikini & Figure4thview 16 pics 2011 IFBB Arnold Classic, Ms. International, Fitness International & Figure International15thview 24 pics 2010 IFBB Houston Pro Figure & Bikini3rdview 8 pics 2010 NPC National Bodybuilding, Figure & Bikini Championships1stview 10 pics 2010 NPC National Bodybuilding, Figure & Bikini Championships1stview 10 pics 2010 NPC National Bodybuilding, Figure & Bikini Championships1stview 10 pics 2010 NPC USA Championships6th 2009 NPC Team Universe16th 2009 NPC Junior National Bodybuilding, Fitness & Figure Championships4th 2009 NPC 26th Annual Southern Classic Bodybuilding, Figure & Bikini1stview 4 pics 2008 NPC Arkansas State Bodybuilding & Figure Contest1stview 4 pics *This list may not reflect all shows for this participant

Monday, March 12, 2012

Iara Vieira

Iara Vieira champion! The last night of Saturday, June 19, made history. More than anyone, Iara will remember this moment so special: the night she won the title in its category at the 47th Championship Bodybuilding and Fitness 2010. The championship organized by Brazilian Confederation of Bodybuilding and Bodybuilding was hotly disputed. Several athletes took to the stage divided into several categories. Starting at 16:30, the championship ended around 21:30, with the last category to be awarded, the category overall. The auditorium of Universidade Paulista (UNIP - Paradise campus) was packed. Our expectation was great to see the presentation of Iara Vieira, Universal Nutrition athlete. It was his first performance as an athlete and IFBB Championship first played in 2010. She was beautiful and well defined body. The result? Iara Vieira champion! Universal Nutrition congratulates Iara Vieira for his victory and thanked all those present who cheered for her! Here are some photos of the 47th Championship 2010 that took place in UNIP.

Sunday, March 11, 2012

Michelle Cummings

The dust has settled on the 2011 NPC Nationals. Rising to the top of the crowd of female muscle is your newest IFBB Pro, Heavyweight and Nationals Overall Champion Michelle Cummings. Michelle is from Upstate NY and works for the NY State Department of Health. A former gymnast, Michelle came to bodybuilding with a strong foundation and it’s obvious her body responded well to the heavy lifting. You would never know it by her dominating presence at Nationals, but Michelle is a relative new-comer to bodybuilding. She entered Nationals with only 2 prior competitions; a 2nd place in the 2010 NPC Easter USA Middleweights, and a 1st in the 2011 NPC Atlantic States. Now an IFBB Pro, we can’t wait to see what lies ahead for this beautiful, strong, and well muscled competitor.

Saturday, March 10, 2012

Jen Rankin

I'm a small town Texas girl through and through.  My childhood revolved around dirt roads, climbing trees, building forts and basically just being a tomboy.  I started playing softball when I was 5 years old and continued to stay athletic and active as I grew up.  In middle school and high school I participated in many sports including track, basketball, softball, cross-country and cheer-leading.  My senior year, I was a state-qualifier in the 100m hurdles and the runner-up in high jump.  This achievement led me to pursue track and field in college.  I came in doing 100 m hurdles and high jump, and then my coach introduced me to pole-vault and the heptathlon.  The hep is a 7b event competition that lasts 2 days and includes: 100M hurdles, high jump, long jump, javelin, shot put, 200M dash and the 800M run.  Practices were long and grueling, but I loved every minute of it because in the back of my mind I knew that not many people could put themselves through it! That made me feel set-apart and gave me motivation and confidence to keep going.  I was a NAIA national qualifier several times indoor and outdoor and still hold the record for pole vault.  
Bodybuilding 
Always being athletic and active led me to purse the sport of bodybuilding after I graduated college.  It had always been a dream of mine and by the encouragement of a friend at the gym, I decided to give it a try.  I met with a female bodybuilder and figure competitor in Lubbock to have a consultation and give me feedback on whether or not I was ready to compete.  After our meeting I started my contest diet and 10 weeks later competed in my first NPC Figure competition, The 2008 West Texas Classic, and have been going strong ever since! To me, my competition history is a testament and a reminder to myself of the hard work and dedication I have endured.  Just like competing in track, bodybuilding gave me a "niche" and it continuously helps me to keep moving forward in life by setting goals and striving for more.  In my opinion, having a goal and a vision is the most important thing we can do for ourselves.  One bible verse I always refer to is Proverbs 29:18, "Without vision, the people perish."  Our visions and dreams help to give us hope for the future while at the same time, keep us grounded and feeling like we are not just going through life without a purpose.
Faith, Family, Life
I believe that to be truly happy, our lives must have balance.  The way I practice balance is by keeping God first, Family second, and everything else in life third.  
 "...seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you." Matthew 6:33
"He only is my rock and my salvation: he is my defence; I shall not be moved. In God is my salvation and my glory: the rock of my strength, and my refuge, is in God." Psalm 62:6-7
I am so blessed to have a family and so many wonderful friends that are so loving and supportive of me and everything I aspire to be. They have always been there to encourage me, guide me, love me and cheer me on-- no matter what.  I would be lost without them!

Friday, March 9, 2012

Sara Picken-Brown

SARA PICKEN-BROWN, is a hot little figure competitor and personal trainer.

homepage:'Live your BEST life'

Sara is one of Melbourne’s foremost fitness consultants, running Pocket Rocket Productions Consulting business in the CBD and Docklands for the past 5 years. A fully qualified Personal Trainer and Conditioning Coach, Sara has worked on a variety of health projects for the Government, managed fundraising events for Kids Helpline and trained one-on-one, exclusive & elite clients on location. Her passion for health, fitness and education are always present. Sara’s interest in movement began very young, dancing professionally for a number of years for ballet companies both in Australia and in Europe, before starting The Lean n Shed in 2001.

In 2005, Sara competed in her first Figure Class Bodybuilding Competition, taking the Overall Title at The All Female Classic. Placing in all her subsequent contests since, she is proof that your health and wellbeing are a lifestyle commitment for the better. Every ones long term success is determined by the choices one makes each day and in how you balance all aspect of your life to support your desires. This message of balance, accountability, self-education and action prompted Sara to set up the BodyRoc Workshop program.

2005: INBA All Female Classic-Novice 1st Place
2005: INBA All Female Classic-Figure Overall 1st Place
2005: INBA Australian Titles-Figure Class Open 1st place
2005: INBA Australian titles-Figure Overall 2nd Runner up
2006: INBA Australian Titles-Figure Open 2nd Runner up
2007: INBA Victorian Titles-Figure Open 1st Runner up

Thursday, March 8, 2012

Mindi Obrien


Some Info about MINDI:



NAME: Mindi O'Brien
NICKNAME: Mindi-moo
DATE OF BIRTH: May 23, 1974
PLACE OF BIRTH: St. Catharines, Ontario
RESIDENCE: Hamilton, Ontario
OCCUPATION: Co-owner of TEAMOBRIEN-competitive fitness team/private personal
training studio, personal trainer, spokesmodel for Sportlab Nutrition
HEIGHT: 5'4"
WEIGHT: Off season: 125-130lbs / Competition season: 123-126lbs
EYE COLOR: Blue
HAIR COLOR: Blonde
FITNESS GOALS: To be a leader in the fitness industry and to represent
Canada on the IFBB Pro circuit.
OTHER GOALS: To be a positive role model to my son.
BIGGEST INFLUENCE: My son and my fiancé. I always want my son and fiancé to
be proud of me. My fiancé Dennis has been my coach, training partner,
nutritionist, chef and my biggest support system this entire journey. He has
stuck by me this entire time to help me reach my goals and dreams.



WORKOUT-OFF SEASON-Many changes are made to my workout schedule when
preparing for a competition.
Day 1: Shoulders/Calves/30 min. cardio
Day 2: Back/Abs/Cardio-30 min.
Day 3: Chest/Abs/Cardio-30 min.
Day 4: Legs/Calves/Cardio-30 min.
Day 5: Arms/Abs/Cardio-30 min.
Day 6: Cardio-45 min/Stretching
Day 7: Rest



NUTRITION:
My nutrition stays clean throughout the year. I keep my protein intake quite
high, moderate-low carbs, and moderate fat intake. I leave Friday evenings
for enjoying myself with my family. We usually order in a pizza and watch
Funniest Home Videos.
My nutrition will change according to different competitions.



FAVORITES:
Body Part to Train: Chest/Biceps
Best Body Part: Biceps
Cheat Foods: anything chocolate and pizza
Movies: the last of the Mohiccans, Finding Nemo, Braveheart
Actors: Jack Nicholson, Meg Ryan, Robert Dinero
Sports: Fitness, Karate, gymnastics
Musicians: Madonna, Janet Jackson, Kid Rock
Reading: Awaken the Giant Within-Anthony Robbins, read a lot of material to
stay on top of what's happening within the industry of fitness and
medicine..
Interests: hiking, spending time with family and friends, weight training,
and reading.



COMPETITION HISTORY
2007 MS. INTERNATIONAL - 12th PLACE

2006 EUROPA SUPER SHOW PRO FITNESS - 2nd PLACE

2005- NEW YORK PRO SHOW-6TH PLACE
2005- FITNESS INTERNATIONAL/ARNOLD CLASSIC- 10TH PLACE
2004- FITNESS OLYMPIA-9TH PLACE
2004- SW PRO CUP - IFFB PRO FITNESS - 1ST PLACE
2004- CANADIAN OVERALL FITNESS CHAMPION
2003- F.V.F. NORTH AMERICAN FITNESS & STRENGTH CHALLENGE-1ST PLACE
2003- WEIDER INVITATIONAL -SLOVAKIA GRAND PRIX-3RD PLACE
2003- MUSCLEMANIA-Heavy Weight Canadian Champion
2003- MS. FITNESS CANADA PAGEANT-4TH PLACE
2002- F.V.F. NORTH AMERICAN FITNESS & STRENGTH CHALLENGE-1ST PLACE
2002- TSN SERIES-1ST PLACE
2002- MS. FITNESS CANADA PAGEANT-4TH PLACE
2001- TSN SERIES-1ST PLACE
2001- MS. FITNESS CANADA PAGEANT-1ST RUNNER UP
2000- GUEST PERFORMED AT THE TORONTO PRO SHOW
2000- MS.FITNESS ONTARIO-1ST PLACE (CBBF)
1999- MISSISSAUGA CHAMPIONSHIPS-1ST PLACE (CBBF)
1999- FITNESS CANADA NATURALS-4TH PLACE (CBBF)
1999- MS. FITNESS NATURAL ONTARIO-1ST PLACE (CBBF)



SPONSORS
2003-PRESENT- SIGNED ON WITH SPORTLAB NUTRITION
2003-PRESENT-KHP DESIGNS-FITNESS AND POSING ATTIRE
2004-PRESENT-FABUTAN TANNING STUDIO
2004-PRESENT-RAW POWER
2005-WATSONS FITNESS AND NUTRITION CENTRES



MEDIA/PRINT COVERAGE
2005- Interview with www.bodybuilding.com
2005- Cover model for www.femflex.com
2005- Cover model for www.herbiceps.com
2005- Cover Page/April 2005 issue and many articles in Women's Physique World Magazine
2004- Present-Featured in Musclemag, Ironman, Oxygen, Flex and Women's Physique World Magazines
2004- Featured on the Sportlab.ca website
2003- PRESENT-SERIOUS ABOUT FITNESS-Competitive articles
2003- Ramada Plaza Hotel- commercial with the Hamilton Bulldogs Mascot.
2003- Raw Power Fitness Gear- featured on packaging for many different fitness accessories.
2003- Hamilton Spectator Newspaper - Cover page & two (2) page interview on Qualifying for the Worlds in both Fitness and Bodybuilding.
2003- Personal Radio Interview (Hop Ironshow)-Interview Topic: Advanced Ab Training
2003- Athletic Women's Magazine:Cover Model (online magazine)
2003- Modelled, Promotional Ads for multiple Nutrition & Fitness companies
2003- Toronto Star National Newspaper - Cover page followed by 2 page interview
2003- Vision Quest-Gabrielle Fischer (world-class artist) three (3) Body Castings
2003- Personal radio interview for FAME (Hop Ironshow)
2003- Faremon Sportswear - Modelled new Sportswear
2003- Breakfast Television - FAME Promotion
2003- Bodycasting - Promotional work for FAME - Fitness and Model Expo.
2002- Femsport & Femflex online magazine; Fitness Model
2002- Fitness Canada Pageant (Featured on TSN)
2002- TSN Fitness Canada Pageant Series
2002- Prolab Nutrition ; Supplement Ads.
2002- New VR - Promoting health and fitness (3 segments)
2002- Prolab Nutrition ; TV Commercial, Multi Media Model.
2001- TSN Fitness Canada Pageant Series
2001- Florida Fitness Ottawa ; TV Commercial
2001- Photos for Musclemag Magazine (Scott Appleby-Photographer)
2001- Fitsquad.com ; Three (3) Photo Galleries.
2001- Fitnessboost.com ; Featured on the Fitness Boost Photo Gallery
2001- Femsport Magazine-Photo shoot for female online Magazine.
2000- Competition highlights in Oxygen Magazine
2000- Muscletech Research & Development, Featured in Hydroxycut Ads.


Wednesday, March 7, 2012

Rossella Pruneti


This is without a doubt one of my favorite interviews. It is with Rossella Prunetti. Rossella is a beautiful and very talented woman. She has done about 60 competitions, and now writes about the sport. She recently did an ebook (in Italian) and has a website, has written for many publications, she is a promter, and is basically a great Representative for the sport of bodybuilding. When I first approached Rossella about doing an interview I admit I knew practically nothing about her. But became so impressed with her that I quickly did my best to find out everything I could about her. What I found out is that she is an amazing woman. I am very honored to present this interview with Rossella Pruneti.







Q: First, Rossella, thanks for taking the time out to do this. I appreciate
it.
A: It is my pleasure. You know, I always feel obliged to give back to body
building. I think it gave me a lot but some time I wonder if my friend Rich
Gaspari was right when he said it only gave him heartbreaks. I guess some of
us cannot skip this roller coaster-like relationship with body building. It
is the way we are and we live.

Q: Can you tell a little about yourself. Family, where you are from, things
like that
A: I was born in Firenze, Central Italy. I grew in a beautiful middle-class
family with lots of love, food, books, and English language exposure. My
childhood and girlhood were devoted to playing, reading, and studying. I was
happy and I am grateful to my family for those years.

Q: Before you started training, were you always a very athletic person? Play
any sports?
A: Quite the contrary. I was a lazy girl. I used to walk a bit after lunch with
my father - who loves trekking and keep fit doing it. I was the usual homely
plumpy girl who preferred studying and class examinations to playing a sport
and physical education lessons. I just took a few lessons of tennis in those
years. I remember the best performance of mine was in shot put at a school
contest. I started to understand there are different kind of activities and
to see that my body and mind were more for the kind related to power and
strength instead of the aerobic or endurance ones.

Q: What got you into the gym to start training?
A: My elder sister Perla in 1987. I was 17 years old. I didn't even know what
was body building and how a piece of equipment looked like. I only knew
Arnold Schwarzenegger was a body builder. As it happens, she quit after a
few months while I am still there lifting weights :)

Q: Was training something you picked up pretty easy? How long before you
started to see results?
I loved it pretty soon. I was very slim and scrawny in my upper body. I
remember the female instructor, the first Italian championess in "soft"
female body building, yelled at my small biceps. I hated that and I swore
revenge. However at first my aim was to use body building together with my
diet to get slim - in the lower part of my body. I was - and maybe under the
muscle armor still am - the typical Mediterranean pear-shaped woman. I loved
the importance of nutrition in this sport.
In the long run (let's say after a few years) I went through a real
makeover. A teacher of mine met me after 5-6 years and was amazed. He said
the only thing which could have helped him to recognize me were my eyes!


Q: What led to you deciding to compete?
A: The easy level of female body building in Italy back then. Female body
building was split up in two categories: soft i.e. by far less muscular
and hard i.e. muscular, ripped, vascularized. I started because I felt I
could be a "soft". I still remember the former Mishay Santos laugh at the
description of Italian soft body building. In the years they united the
categories and I ended up in the only muscular Italian female body building.
You could say I did like the dog in the Jack London's novel. I grew into one
of them simply by following them - although I have always been a smaller
body builder. I guess it is my body type. I have long limbs and a really fast
metabolism.

Q: Was competing something your family and friends supported?
A: Not at all. My family always got ashamed of that. They never watched a
competition of mine. My mother was not able to look at a picture of me on stage.
She said it was repulsive. Plus she felt like I was doing something immoral.
I also grew apart from my childhood girlfriends. As a body builder, I was
too much different than them and - sad to say - I felt that big gap becoming
bigger and bigger.

Q: Can you share your contest history.
A: It is easy - I competed a lot! Like maybe more than 60 competitions in 10
years. To sum it up, I had been competing as an Italian level body builder
from 1992 to 2001 - I had to stop in 1999 for personal reasons... I was
getting a divorce. Then I made a comeback as BodyFitness in 2005. I thought
I could have been a good Bodyfitness not being a good Body Builder. It
happened that as a Body Builder I was small and as a Bodyfitness I was too
big! Still to date my best result is the Central Italy in 1995 - 1st in the
heavyweight and overall. Even a month later at the Nationals I went on stage
with my best conditioning.
I competed together with the best Italian championess and I am proud of
that - Carla Girardello, Viviana Violante, Giuditta Magazzino, Teresa La
Corte, and many others.
There's another important trait of my palmarès - I have always been
competing in the IFBB. I believe I can be proud I never never stepped on
another federation stage. In Italy most athletes switch federations looking
for the one which can get them the title. I never did because I humbly knew
I had to improve. I have always thought that when you are at your best you
win everywhere and with any judge panel.


Q: You do not compete anymore, but you still stay in shape. What is your
normal training routine like now, and what is your favorite part to train?
A: I will always train as long as I have a good health to do that. I'll tell
you a thing. The only part of my life I quit body building was during 9
months of my first pregnancy. I had to do that due to all familiar pressures
to take care of the baby in my womb. Well, after 15 days from my labour I
started working out again and.... I felt like a fish taken out from water
and then put back in its natural environment again!
Training is something I love and being a body builder is the way I am.
I have no favorite bodypart to train. However I feel huge shoulders are
critical for my shape and I'd love to improve my glutes. The battle against
not really nice glutes is a constant in my body building career.

Q: Do you think there are any misconceptions about women who weight train
or are muscular, or things you wish people understood?
A: A lot. I am also fed up to talk about those misconceptions. I wrote many
articles from a psychological point of view. Nowadays I am just happy to let
women understand that body building will not subtract to their beauty and
it is by far better than aerobics class if they care about their physique -
of course it is like confronting apples with oranges since body building and
aerobics have different aims but this is something most women don't
understand and try to chisel their body with cardio!

Q: You also do a lot of writing on fitness. Where have you written and what
do you write about?
A: I am sorry I don't remember all the magazine or web sites. I had been the
editor of Body's Magazine by Panatta Sport from 1998 through 2003. I
started up two magazines - BIG and Better Bodies. I had been translating
Ironman for Olympian's News. I got articles published on Cultura Fisica,
Sport & Salute, Sportman. I contributed to international magazines like
American Health Fitness, Musclesport, Le Mond du Muscle, and so on. I really
cannot remember all of them. A few months ago I started up POWER. I write
about body building and fitness: training, nutrition, supplementation,
contest coverages. As a copywriter I may write about different subjects. You
just have to be honest and do serious research. What I aim is writing in a
simple, entertaining way. I admire the style of the English academic writer.
They are able to make Quantum Mechanics understand but the layman! I think
of papers by Richard Feynman, for instance.


Q: What got you involved in writing about the sport?
A: I started to send contest coverage and book reviews to Cultura Fisica, a
major Italian magazine. Back then the editor was a special, nice man -
GianMarco Pagliai. He published me and got me started up. I am still in
touch with him and I always say he has been "my father in body building". I
will always be grateful to him and honored of having taken part in body
building magazines when he was still involved.

Q: You also do some promoting work. Can you tell people what you do for
promoting?
A: Together with my husband Dennis Giusto, we promote North Italy IFBB
Championships and Notte dei Campioni which is the IFBB Italia qualifier to
select athletes to compete in the Arnold Classic Amateur Championships. This
year we'll be promoting the Nationals too. In Italy Nationals change venue
year after year and the President wants them to be alternated among a city
in the South, a city in the Central Italy, and a city in the North.

Q: Do you have any favorite competitors, or people you admire?
A: Any competitor who is honest with their competition and does their utmost is
my favorite. As for people I admire, they are many. I can just tell you some
who played a critical role in my life: my father for what he achieved and
what he gave me both through DNA and through material and moral support, Ray
Stern and his wife Debi for the teaching and the right way to go they showed
me, Rudy Panatta of Panatta Sport because he tried to teach me something and
I neglected that only for recognizing after some time he was damn right! My
friend Rich Gaspari was also fundamental in my life and having seen his
second rise to stardom, I can say I admire him too.

Q: One reason I started this blog, was because it seems men, unfairly get
way more coverage and respect than women who compete. Why do you think that
is?
A: I always think of people like "human beings" not men or women. Being a
woman, I am used to be less credited or to have less coverage than men. I
really don't care. At the high school we used to talk about that among girls
and a school-friend of mine said: "Just think of cooking. When a woman is
good at cooking, that's it. When a man is good at cooking, he is a chef!". I
think it is just something related to our culture and honestly I think
there's no use to moan about that. Just be the best you can be. Period.

Q: What will it take to get the women more coverage and respect in the
fitness industry?
A: I think they have coverage. The problem is - what should we do to get them
more marketable? But I am a body builder more than a promoter and as Bill
Dobbins says, a woman must be free to be what she likes. Down with
marketable. I always say to girls to come on stage as they like to be
because they have to be like that all year long while the show lasts only
one day. Be what you like to be not caring of what judges want or magazines
publish.

Q: Do you think women who train and compete are more or less accepted by
society than they were five years ago?
A: In Italy hardcore body building has almost disappeared so that it is easy to
go mainstream for Body Fitness - they are not so big and scaring as we
bodybuilders used to be!

Q: Does it bother you when you see women who are skinny and unhealthy
portrayed as sex symbols and said to have these great bodies, when in
reality they are very unhealthy?
A: No, I am not. Beauty can have different shapes and levels. Indeed anorexia
is a sad problem and should not be encouraged by mass media.

Q: If someone came up to you and said they wanted to start training, what
is the one piece of advice you would want to give them?
A: I could teach them all my body building philosophy but I would end up
looking like an old grumpy annoying person. I prefer to stand by them in
silence and help them when they'll ask me for that.
If they take into account competing, I always say not to use drugs. Drugs
may work but results are short lived. Drugs may also not work and you wind up
to ruin your health for nothing.

Q: What is the biggest mistake you see people make when they start training?
A: Drugs.

Q: Outside of training, writing, and promoting, do you have any other
hobbies or activities you enjoy?
A: If you add webmastering and web design plus improving my English, you listed
them all!

22. Can you describe a typical day in the life of Rossella Pruneti.
A: Most of my day is computer work with 1-2 hours devoted to workouts. I stay
up till late and get up late. Night hours are the best to translate and
write.

Q: Favorite movie, actor, TV show, and musician?
A: Il Mandolino del Capitano Corelli. I have always thought in another life I
was somebody during WWII. Perhaps an USA soldier. Or his lover.
Al Pacino but I cannot explain why. I don't know.
These days I like the TV series "Bones". I have a degree in Mathematical
Logics and their ability to discover things make me think of that. As soon
as I got graduated, I tried to get a job as an investigator.

Q: Describe Rossella Pruneti in five words.
"She loves bodybuilding a lot". These are the same 5 words I told Rafael
Santonja when he gave me the IFBB Silver Medal in Cernobbio on October 17th
2009. He answered back: "We love you". That's what I most cherish - that
people understand I am motivated by the love and passion for my sport and
give credit to me for that.

Q: When you are no longer at all involved in the sport, how do you want to
be remembered?
A: I will always be involved in the sport. People won't be able to remember me
in any other way.

Q: You also have a website. Can you give out the address for that, and tell
people what they can find there?
A: www.rossellapruneti.com
It is pretty much a professional showcase but questions are welcome in the
message boards.

Q: Anything else I may have missed that you want to take the time to plug
or promote?
A: You gave me the opportunity to remember and to tell many things. Thank you
for that. We could go business and just say I published an ebook about
fitness and body building before, during and between pregnancies. Alas, it
is in Italian. The link to download Chapter 1 for free is:
http://www.autostima.net/shopping/prodotto.php?id_prodotto=373&pp=65000

Q: Rossella, again, I thank you for taking the time to do this. Is there
anything else you want to add before you go?
A: I will be always here if you need more. As a novelist wrote, no body builder
simply quit. The same novelist wrote that body building is a cerebral
exercise with a barbell. That's uncanny yet true. I don't know another way
of life, and maybe I am not able to live a different life, but I do love
this one. I won't be anything different than - a person who makes good use
of their mind over their body and life

Tuesday, March 6, 2012

karly woodle


Affiliation IFBB
Birthday August 1
About “The principle is competing against yourself. It's about self improvement, about being better than you were the day before.”~Steve Young
Biography "If you want to leave footprints in the sands of time, don't drag your feet"~Annot. L. Sheppard

Certified personal trainer, Serious Nutrition Solutions Sponsored Athlete & IFBB Figure Pro. I currently work in reputation management and real estate

Follow me on Twitter @KarlyWoodle
Gender Female
Email karlywoodle1@gmail.com
Website http://twitter.com/KarlyWoodle
http://www.figuresupport.com

Monday, March 5, 2012

Nicole Duncan


Nicole Duncan
HomeAtlanta, Georgia, United States of America

OccupationFitness Choreographer

Websitehttp://bodyspace.bodybuilding.com/energizer1913/

EmailEnergizer1913@aol.com

InformationNicole recently retired after 4 seasons as a member of the Atlanta Falcons Cheerleading Squad to focus on competing.

NameNicole Duncan



Participated in the following shows*
ContestPlacePics?

2011 IFBB Fort Lauderdale Pro4thview 56 pics


2011 IFBB Olympia10thview 76 pics


2011 IFBB New York Pro Fitness8thview 39 pics


2011 IFBB Arnold Classic, Ms. International, Fitness International & Figure International10thview 30 pics


2010 IFBB Fort Lauderdale Pro2nd


2010 IFBB Olympia9thview 51 pics


2010 IFBB Europa Show of Champions8thview 4 pics


2010 IFBB Arnold Classic, Ms. International, Fitness International & Figure International10thview 5 pics


2009 IFBB Ft. Lauderdale Pro Fitness & Figure2nd


2009 IFBB Olympia8thview 12 pics


2009 IFBB Atlantic City Bodybuilding, Fitness & Figure Championships4thview 7 pics


2009 IFBB Europa Super Show & Supplement Expo3rdview 31 pics


2009 IFBB Arnold Classic14thview 17 pics


2008 IFBB Olympia11thview 3 pics


2008 IFBB 15th Annual Sports/Fitness Weekend & Europa IFBB Super Show3rdview 18 pics


2008 IFBB Houston Pro Bodybuilding, Fitness & Figure Contest5thview 3 pics


2008 IFBB New York Pro Fitness4th


2007 IFBB Palm Beach Pro/Am7thview 17 pics


2007 IFBB Europa Super Show10thview 3 pics


2007 IFBB New York Pro Fitness Contest7th




*This list may not reflect all shows for this participant

Sunday, March 4, 2012

Gemma Williams


Gemma Williams
IFBB Pro figure competitor

Name: Gemma Williams
Date of Birth: 24/03/81
Height: 5' 5"
Weight: 143 off season, 130 in competition

Biography:

All through my school years I was interested in sports and fitness and played Netball, Hockey, Badminton and other sports, for my middle and upper school. Outside of school, my love for sport continued and I attended weekly sessions for my local swimming club.

I was disheartened in later years, as there seemed to be nowhere for a sports minded person to excel, unless that was, you were an excellent football player and a guy!

I carried on playing for sports teams and at age 15-16 our final and most important year at school I became very ill with 'Glandular fever'. I became extremely weak and was signed off school fulltime for six months. I lost a lot of weight and felt down, missing so much work and having to completely stop what I was enjoying. Six months later I was still weak and was only allowed half days at School - which for most children would be fabulous - just not when your exams were close. It took me months to recover and each time I tried to do what I was used to, I contracted viruses and had to rest again!

I ended up going to college and amongst other things took my A level Art and Design, which was my other love. I completed this and decided to choose between Fashion collage or the Fitness industry. So guess which I chose?

Some six years later I'm still in the fitness industry. I took all my studies over Fastrack through day release college and took further qualifications over the years. I also went to University to study Sports Therapy, but sadly had to leave due to home commitments, but I may return to this as home study in the near future.

I worked for three major Health Farms, Henlow Grange, Forest Mere (Champneys) and Springs, which gave me a great insight to the commercial side of fitness, personal training and teaching. I then worked as a Studio Co-Coordinator/ Personal Trainer for L.A. fitness and I am now working for a large corporate company in a private gym.

My dream to compete started when I first trained in a Body builders gym with my boyfriend, which was roughly the same time that I started my first fitness job, I used to buy the fitness magazines, Muscle and Fitness, Hers, Flex etc., and I used to see the fitness girls and wish it was me! Well it was me years later on the Front cover, and articles in most which shocked me to say the least!

I started my first diet in 2003 just before the Lemington Spa show for the E.F.B.B. I was at that time training miles from where I lived, in a gym called Body Limits where Eddie Abbew, Brendon Bradley, Rickey Welling trained, so I was pointed out many things of which I was doing wrong through my training.

I asked the the guy who ran the gym Abslam, who also competed to help me with my diet. He took a look at me each week and adjusted my diet accordingly, it wasn't the best for my self esteem, standing in bikinis in front of Abslam and Charles Clairmont while you weren't at your best! But it worked. A week before the show, I wanted to pull out - I was feeling flat and down, and didn't think I stood a chance but I was talked right again (thanks Abs ) and went on to win.

Three weeks on I was standing on stage at the British, I was extremely nervous, and was again thinking I had no chance, guess your diet just gets to you at that point! Again, I went on to win the first Body Fitness class (Figure) the British had held! This was great, so off stage and back home to be up for the early the next day at work! Fabulous, reality always strikes!

I have since gone forward and taken my Pro card, and competed in the States, which was a great experience and learning curve. I was again hit with a virus and was in bed for 2 weeks before the show, which had a major draw back, but you have to go on no matter what, when things are booked they are booked! So I was not how I wished to be, this has just made me all the more determined to go forward and be the best I can for my next show.

I am hoping to compete again middle next year as I have to have an operation in the next two months so will be unable to train for a while, I am sure however this will not dampen my spirits, I am only human, and we all have our bad times.

Hobbies: I enjoy all outdoor sports in the little spare time I have, I love mountain biking (although I fall off quite a lot). Horse Riding (and again I'm great at falling) and just plain old walking. My favourite pastimes consist of, music the more chilled out type of soul and R 'n' B, and I love dancing, just for fun and to relax. I do not take it seriously and often fall over dancing due to my high heels and maybe a glass of wine, which is other favourite pastime (joke).

"Prolab supplements really work, I've had fantastic results using them to get in shape for competitions and without them I would not have been able to achieve my goals. I really like the taste of both the soy, and whey protein shakes and find that I can maintain a low body fat when combining them with Cuts ii all year round"

Products:
PURE WHEY
WHEY ISOLATE

Prolab Whey helps me maintain the high protein diet I need off and on season, helping me keep to my diet when working or away. With reduced carbs and a high amount of protein I can always rely on Prolab to keep me in the best shape.

CREATINE
GLUTAMINE

Prolabs Creatine I use all year round to help me get that extra strength I need when training, this, combined with Glutamine helps me repair and recover ready for my next training session.

CLA +
(FAT BURNERS)

When dieting for a show your body needs that extra kick to help keep your metabolisim from dropping and supply your body with more energy. Using both CLA and Prolab Fat burners I can strip away the body fat and keep my energy levels high right through my diet.


Diet:

Start of 12 week on season:
Morning: WHEY ISOLATE, 20G OATS

Mid-morning: TURKEY BREAST FILLET, 20G BROWN RICE, 6 STICKS ASPARAGUS

Lunch: CHICKEN BREAST, MANGE TOUT + ASPARAGUS, 20G BROWN RICE

Training weights & cardio
Post workout: WHEY ISOLATE, GLUTAMINE, CREATINE


Dinner: CHICKEN OR TURKEY BREAST, SPINACH, ASPARAGUS

Saturday, March 3, 2012

Mah-ann Mendoza


Some Info about MAH-ANN:



VITAL STATISTICS
HEIGHT: 5’1 .5
WEIGHT: 132 LBS. CONTEST
155 OFF SEASON
CHEST: 38
LAT SPREAD: 42.5
ARMS 16
QUADS 24.5
CALVES 16
FREE WEIGHT SQUATS: 495 LBS.
DUMBBELL INCL. PRESS: 110 LBS. EACH ARM. (DON’T DO BARBELLS)



CONTEST HISTORY:

08/07 EURROPA SUPER SHOW 1st/OVERALL LIGHT
03/06 ARNOLD CLASSIC/MS. INTERNATIONAL 11TH
10/05 MS. OLYMPIA/LAS VEGAS, NV 11TH
03/05 ARNOLD CLASSIC/MS. INTERNATIONAL 2ND LIGHT
10/04 MS. OLYMPIA/LAS VEGAS, NV 6TH LIGHT
08/04 SW USA PRO CUP CHAMPIONSHIP/ARLINGTON, TX 1ST LIGHT
08/03 JAN TANA PRO WOMEN'S BB/CHARLOTTE, NC 2ND MIDDLE
02/03 MS. INTERNATIONAL/COLUMBUS, OH 9TH MIDDLE
08/02 JAN TANA PRO WOMENS BB/LYNCHBURG, VA 4TH MIDDLE
05/02 SW USA PRO CUP CHAMPIONSHIP/ARLINGTON, TX 4TH MIDDLE
07/01 USA’S BB CHAMP. / LAS VEGAS 1ST OVERALL/MIDDLE
11/00 NATIONALS / NEW YORK 2ND MIDDLE
08/00 USA’S BB CHAMP / LAS VEGAS 4TH MIDDLE
09/99 NORTH AMERICAN/ DETROIT 9TH HEAVY
07/99 USA’S BB CHAMP/ SANTA MONICA, CA 1ST/DQ Late for finals MIDDLE
11/98 NATIONALS/ ATLANTA 6TH MIDDLE
09/98 NORTHWEST BB / PORTLAND, OR 1ST/OVERALL MIDDLE
10/96 NATIONALS, DALLAS 11TH MIDDLE
10/95 NATIONALS/ NEW ORLEANS 7TH LIGHT
09/95 NORTHWEST BB/ PORTLAND, OR 1ST/OVERALL MIDDLE
09/95 EMERALD CUP, BELLEVUE, WA 1ST/OVERALL MIDDLE
03/94 PACIFIC COAST/ PORTLAND, OR 2ND LIGHT
03/94 EMERALD CUP, BELLEVUE, WA 3RD LIGHT
07/93 USA’S, SANTA MONICA, CA 6TH LIGHT
1992 WESTERN OREGON/ CORVALLIS, OR 2ND LIGHT
1992 PORTLAND ROSECUP/PORTLAND,OR 2ND LIGHT
1991 OREGON COAST BB/ SEASIDE, OR 2ND LIGHT
1990 WESTERN OREGON / CORVALLIS, OR 7TH LIGHT



GOALS AND AMBITIONS:

DO WELL AT PRO BB LEVEL AND GET BETTER FOR EACH SHOW. LIVE LIFE ONE DAY AT A TIME AND HAVE NO EXPECTATIONS. ACCEPT THE PATH THAT IS GIVEN AND ASK NO QUESTIONS “WHY”. ZERO TOLERANCE FOR FAILURE.



Mah-Ann Mendoza
www.mahann.com


Friday, March 2, 2012

Shelly Albetta


Friday, April 23, 2010
Shelly Albetta Interview







I want to avoid the typical "beautiful Twins" comments you often see or hear when talking about two twins who are beautiful women. So I will leave it at saying Shelly Albetta and her sister Betsy are beautiful women. But there is more to Shelly than just being beautiful. Shelly is a hard and dedicated worker who ha an amazing physique. I talk to a lot of competitors and usually, like in any field, you will find at least one person with a negative comment about a person. Never heard a negative comment about Shelly. That speaks a lot about her I believe. It shows the inner beauty is there to go along with the outer. She competed for the first time in 2006, and if you look at pictures from show to show, you see great improvement each time, which gives fans something to look forward to as she plans to compete 4 times this year. So I am very happy to post this interview and let you know a little more about Shelly Albetta, and get you ready to root for her and watch her continue to get better.






Q: First, Shelly, I want to thank you for taking the time to do this. I am a big admirer and fan, so this is an honor

Q: Can you start out by telling a little about yourself. Family, where you are from, things like that.
A: I'm 27 yrs old, born and raised as a Jersey girl! I have a twin sister who is my bestest friend and training partner.

Q: Before the gym were you an especially athletic person? Play any sports or anything?
A: I played varsity soccer all 4 years of high school, but nothing in college.

Q: What initially led you into the gym?
A: I always admired fit women, and always had an interest in weights. So in college I began educating myself and talking to other women who competed, and that's how I got hooked up with my trainer Mike Davies who I have been with 5 years.

Q: Was training something you picked up fairly easy? How long before you started to see results?
A: Yes it was however it took me a while to learn how important diet was along with lifting weights.

Q: What made you decide to compete for the first time?
A: I went to my brother in laws bodybuilding show, and saw Figure for the first time, and knew that's what I wanted to do!

Q: Was competing something your family and friends supported at the time?
A: Yes they have always been supportive of my goals and my competing.

Q: Was the first competition what you expected? Did anything surprise you?
A: I was just glad to have gotten on stage my first show. It was a great accomplishment!

Q: Can you share your contest history.
A:
*2006- 5th place mid Atlantic
*2006- 2nd place Lehigh Valley
*2007- 4th place Tracey Greenwood
*2007- 4th place Atlantic States
*2007- 2nd place Garden State
*2008- 1st place AC Pro/Am
*2008- 1st place Great Lakes Bodybuilding
*2009- 12th place North Americans
*2009- 8th place Team Universe

Q: What makes you more nervous, preparing to go on stage, or watching your sister on stage?
A: I always get more nervous for her. We are each others biggest fans and I want her to do great in every show she does.

Q: As far as body parts, what do you feel is your best one?
A: My legs have come up a lot considering I grew them from nothing. I also like my shoulders

Q: Do you have a part you most like to train?
A: Shoulders all the way!

Q: What is your normal training routine and diet like, and how do you alter it for contest prep?
A: I let my trainer do all of the thinking for me diet wise. Training wise I train heavy and hard all year round

Q: When someone sees or hears you compete for the first time, what is the most common reaction? More positive or negative?
A: Mostly positive. I get a lot of girls asking how to look the way I do, which is a compliment to me!

Q: When they see or hear it that first time, what is the one question or comment you are most sick of hearing?
A: "Why don't you eat?", and "Does it bother you competing against your sister in every show?" It truly doesn't, I support her and am happy for her if and when she beats me!

Q: What is the biggest misconception about women who train and compete or the one thing you wish people understood?
A: That every competitor is enhanced by drugs... it takes a lot of hard work to get into figure shape there are no short cuts.

Q: What is the best and worst part of competing?
A: Pushing the body mentally and physically is very rewarding, however I tend to miss out on social events and family gatherings during prep.

Q: Do you have any favorite competitors or any you admire?
A: I admire all competitors that step on stage.

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: To research a trainer that fits with you and let them guide you... but also it is important to learn your own body as well.

Q: You have done quite a bit of fitness modeling. How did you get started in that and what do you enjoy about it?
A: Competing opened doors for photo shoots... I just do them for fun, and enjoy shooting with my sister!

Q: Whats more enjoyable, being on stage, or in front of the camera?
A: I love both equally to be honest!

Q: Outside of training, any other hobbies or activities you enjoy?
A: I enjoy time with my family, my pup and my Boyfriend. I also am very social and like to hang with friends and travel

Q: Can you describe a typical day in the life of Shelly Albetta.
A: work, gym, eat, sleep, repeat.

Q: What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
A: Probably that I have a twin and we do mostly everything together! We own a 2 family house, work together, and train together!

Q: Describe Shelly Albetta in five words.
A: Dedicated, Smart, Balanced, Fulfilled, Kind.

Q: Any set plans for the near future as far as competing or anything else?
A: I plan on competing in 4 shows this year which is a lot, 3 of which will be national shows.

Q: Are you looking for sponsors?
A: I don't actively seek sponsorship but would love an opportunity to represent a company. I feel that if the time is right, it'll just happen, so I don't push that hard.

Q: Shelly, again, I thank you for taking the time to do this. Any last words before you go?
A: Thanks for the opportunity to share a little more about myself! And good luck to all competing in 2010!

Hometown: I live in New Jersey. Born and raised
Age: 26
Contest Weight: 110
Off-season Weight: 120
Height: 5'3
Contest History: 2006- Midatlantic in NJ 5th Lehigh valley in PA 2nd 2007- Tracey Greenwood in PA- 4th Atlantic states in NY- 4th Garden state in NJ- 2nd 2008- Atlantic city pro/am- 1st Great lakes in Ohio- 1st
What motivates you to lead a lifestyle that is healthy and active?
Nothing feels better to me than feeling good about my body. You are what you eat. Fueling my body with healthy foods and consistently spending time in the gym allows me to keep my mind and body in a positive state.
Favorite cheat meal? : Pizza!
What do you do for a living…when you get a break from the gym..lol?
I sell promotional items/print to large corporations in the NY/NJ area.
Do you find it hard to date and/or be married when training for shows or when you lead a super healthy lifestyle?
No. I am lucky enough to have a wonderful boyfriend who also competes, so we understand each other 100% and push each other through the ups and downs of dieting.
What goals do you want to achieve in the fitness industry?
Right now my main goal is to improve with every show that I compete in. Eventually, I would love to achieve the ultimate goal of becoming pro, but right now my focus remains on improving my physique to be the best me that I can be. Right now my main goal is to improve with every show that I compete in. Eventually, I would love to achieve the ultimate goal of becoming pro, but right now my focus remains on improving my physique to be the best me that I can be. Right now my main goal is to improve with every show that I compete in. Eventually, I would love to achieve the ultimate goal of becoming pro, but right now my focus remains on improving my physique to be the best me that I can be.
What do you think is your best feature or bodypart? : Honestly I don’t have one particular body part that I think is best. I work to a
Is there anyone you would like to thank?
My twin sister, Betsy. We train together, diet together, and compete together. My boyfriend, Nick, for always being super supportive and helping me improve. My trainer Mike Davies, who I have worked with for 3+ years now.