Fitness Amateur Of The Week: Consequential Motivation

As a child, I would watch the fitness girls on ESPN with my dad. I always tried to do all the holds and presses. Being a gymnast and a cheerleader, it was something that I was always interested in but never knew how to go about it and never thought I could achieve the look. Cheerleading was coming to an end, unfortunately for me, but the gym became my second home.

Luckily, I was approached several times at my gym by members and trainers asking if I competed. Around that same time, I had a class with a lightweight female bodybuilder who was a few weeks out from her show. I loved her look, and after that I did my research. I started lifting heavy and changed my eating habits.

Within the year, I had a trainer who competed in fitness herself. She helped me with diet and my training before I knew it I was on stage. I've been hooked ever since!

I do 30 minutes of cardio per day if I'm close to a show. If not, I'll usually do cardio three days a week.

My diet tends to change frequently, especially during prep!

I love the dedication and discipline it has given me. I love pushing myself during every workout and routine practicing in hopes that tomorrow I'll see another change in the mirror. There is no feeling like being on stage and showing all the hard work and time you put into your body/routine.

The consequences make me want to live the lifestyle I'm living. I'm lucky to be surrounded with friends and family who motivate me daily to keep doing what I love to do. It's encouraging to have friends, family, and clients who see the changes and take action to improve their lifestyle; that's what truly motivates me.

When I set my mind on something I do it. Every time I set a goal to compete I do it because I know that this is what I love to do!

I plan on competing at Jr. Nationals this June in Chicago in hopes for my pro card depending on how that show goes. Next in line is Team U in New Jersey this July. I would like to start doing more photo shoots and start fitness modeling.

Do your research! This is not a sport for everyone. It's challenging yet rewarding. And of course diet, diet, diet!

Oh gosh! I have so many! I love Jen Hendershott; her energy is incredible. I love the creativity and talent of Jodi Boam. Dana Linn Bailey, Ava Cowan, Vanda Hadarean, and so many more!

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