I started my journey in 2005 when I relocated to Littleton, Colorado, from Talladega, Alabama. As many people know, everything's deep fried in the south. Needless to say, my eating habits weren't great. I was "skinny fat." I was lean, but there was hardly any muscle on my bones. In Colorado, I met many new friends; all of which were extremely active. They ran marathons, cycled, snowboarded, skiied, and played soccer. I decided to become active and see what all the hype was about.
I started going to the gym daily, ate much better, and ran my first marathon. If someone would have told me 10 years ago I'd run a marathon, I would've laughed. I hadn't run since age five. At that time, I was the skinniest I'd ever been in my adult life at 115 pounds. In my opinion, it wasn't healthy or attractive.
Last year, I became fascinated by the amazing athletes who graced the covers of fitness magazines like Muscle & Fitness Hers and Fitness RX and wanted to look like them. I was tired of being the skinny girl. Believe it or not, I hated to hear people say, "You're so skinny." At that point, it was merely a dream. I didn't believe a country girl like me could ever look that incredible, but in my heart, I knew I could do anything.
My family and friends will tell you that I don't back down from a challenge. I set out on a mission to gain some sexy muscle. I wanted to become a muscle princess, or even a queen. I researched online and met amazing trainers, DJ and Kimberlin Hanes, at BodyVisions Fitness & Nutrition.
I decided to be a bikini girl and needed to build my figure, so I set my sights to compete locally. I won the overall in my height class at my first competition which qualified me for nationals. I competed in my first national competition the same year. Through this experience, I learned I'm much stronger than I give myself credit for. I possess the self discipline and determination to become an IFBB figure pro and won't stop until my dream is realized.
My passion for fitness emerged when I began to experience its benefits. I have increased energy, sleep better, and have an increased metabolism. I like to think I look good too. When I started to reap the benefits of fitness, I desired more. Fitness became a big part of who I am. I couldn't imagine my life without it.
I'm motivated by the way I look and feel. There's nothing like looking in the mirror and loving the person staring back at you. I enjoy doing what I love without worrying about health issues.
I'm motivated by others. It's a blessing to be a blessing. When others look to me for advice or I'm complimented by others, it motivates me. I've been in the gym a few times and didn't feel like training. I've had people walk up to me on occasion and say they're inspired by how hard I work. That kicks me in gear more than anything. At that moment, I feel like I can conquer the world.
I go to a mental place and think of all the people who cheer for me; those who believe in me. I have a host of family and friends who look to me for motivation. Little do they know, but they inspire me. I also think of people who say I can't do it. I set out to prove them all wrong. I can and I will.
I dream big. What do I have to lose? I have plans to become an IFBB figure pro in 2013. I work to improve my physique and bring my best package to the national stage. I also have dreams to grace the Olympia stage. It would mean everything to become a fully-sponsored athlete for an outstanding supplement company. Last, and probably most importantly, I want to give back. I want to encourage and inspire others to reach their fitness goals. I plan to do this by obtaining a NASM personal training certification.
Never give up! Your mind will give up long before your body. Don't allow self-defeating thoughts to sabotage your fitness goals. The road won't be easy, but I guarantee it will be worth it. Who doesn't want a smoking hot body?
Erin Stern is my favorite fitness competitor. I don't know her personally, but through her videos, Facebook updates, and Instagram, I feel like we're almost BFFs. She's authentic and has a down-to-earth personality. She's proven to be one of the best in the business. Her physique is amazing. I enjoy following and learning about her fitness regimen.
Bodybuilding.com is the best in the business. It's a one-stop shop. I don't even have to leave my couch, which is the best part. The supplements I need are always in stock and they ship extremely fast. The website has a large amount of valuable information on supplements, nutrition, and training. Additionally, I like to read through the various forums to gain insightful information. Bodybuilding.com continues to exceed my expectations.
- "Run The World (Girls)" by Beyoncé
- "Girl On Fire" by Alicia Keys
- "Survivor" by Destiny's Child
- "Motivation" by T. I.
- "I'm Going In" by Drake (feat. Lil Wayne and Young Jeezy)
Thanks: To Angela Swain for being the most supportive mother on this planet. You've been my biggest fan since day one. I don't know where I'd be without you. I love you, mom.
To DJ and Kimberlin Hanes for being the best trainers a girl could ask for. Thank you for believing in me and pushing me past what I thought possible. I appreciate everything you've done.
To a host of family and friends for believing in me and supporting me on this journey. I wouldn't be here without your unconditional love and support. I love you all.
To Brett Seeley for taking amazing photos, Jo Vu for the awesome make-up, and my girl Keva Morris for the fabulous hairstyling. Thank you.