Body Transformation: Celena Carter Cut A Path To Victory!

Celena was stuck in neutral until she hired a coach who organized her fitness future. Now she competes against the NPC's best at age 40. See how you can too!

Why I decided to transform

I became inspired to transform after looking through fitness magazines while deployed overseas in the Middle East. I've modeled before, but wanted to do more fitness modeling and look like the ladies in fitness magazines. A majority of the females were competitors, which helped me decide what step to take.

My initial inspiration came from Amanda Latona, Nathalia Melo, Vanessa Campbell, and Candice Graham. I put their photos to my refrigerator and computer as daily reminders of what I wanted to become. My motivation really kicked into gear after I observed my first competition. I contacted a personal trainer immediately and got on track toward my fitness goals.

I competed in 11 shows from 2012-2013, mostly in natural bodybuilding federations. I have a strong drive to live a healthier lifestyle. I'm a health advocate and love promoting proper nutrition, diet, and exercise. I grew up with a parent who's a personal trainer, so fitness has always been imbedded within me.

With the grace of God, my quest is to continue this journey and share my knowledge with as many people as possible. I want to let people know that it's never too late to live a healthy, happy, and prosperous life.

Before /// 115 lbs
After /// 104 lbs
AGE 39 / HEIGHT 5'1" / BODY FAT 20%
AGE 40 / HEIGHT 5'1" / BODY FAT 16%

How I accomplished my goals

I took my journey day by day but would've failed without a solid plan. From day one, I followed a training and nutrition plan tailored to my needs and goals. When something didn't work, my trainer and I made adjustments. If I fell off the wagon, I didn't panic. I remained truthful to myself and my coach and kept going.

Cool Fact

Celena has been an Air National Guard member for 12 years and
works in the supply logistics career field as a computer
operations manager/security manager!

I suffered a few injuries along the way but refused to quit. I kept training and stuck to the nutrition plan. When determination kicked in, I found a way around injuries with training methods that didn't cause further injury.

Negativity inspired me to prove naysayers wrong. I wanted to win, gain respect, and prove that I can be whatever my heart desires.

My future fitness plans

My NPC season will be done soon and I will prepare for Team Universe or Master's Nationals in July 2014. Then I'll focus on IFBB North Americans competitions in August 2014 and Nationals Championships in November 2014.

My ultimate goal is to stick with the NPC and obtain my IFBB pro card.

Suggestions for aspiring transformers

  • Hire a trainer or coach.
  • Set a personal goal.
  • Be realistic.
  • Trust the process. Rome wasn't built in a day.

How Bodybuilding.com helped me reach my goals

I logged into Bodybuilding.com every day overseas and printed workouts. The workouts were explained in detail and were easy to follow.

The site also has great meal plans for specific body types. In addition, you can sign up for 12-week programs for free.

Creating a BodySpace account helps you link up with other likeminded fitness individuals. Bodybuilding.com has great fitness groups to engage in general fitness conversations and trade secrets to build a killer body.

Celena's Top 5 Gym Tracks

  1. "Mama Said Knock You Out" by LL Cool J
  2. "Move Your Body" by Nina Sky
  3. "Hold Me Back" by Rick Ross
  4. "Monster" By Kanye West (Feat. Nicky Minaj)
  5. "Girl On Fire" by Alicia Keys (Feat. Nicky Minaj)