Military Bodybuilder Of The Month: Enmeri Batista

Enmeri Batista needed to gain weight to meet military standards for her height, but she wanted to do it the right way, in good health and in a positive manner. Nine years in the United States Air Force helped her grow at a measured pace she was comfortable with.

Her end goal is to go pro in figure, but like everything in health and fitness, the pro route is an arduous process. This dental technician is up to the task! She started small, with local competitions, but with the help of IFBB pro Zoa Linsey and an invite to nationals, she is on her way. Join us in congratulating Enmeri Batista as the February Military Bodybuilder of the Month!

I was interested in gaining good weight. After being so sickly all the time I wanted a change. I met a bodybuilder who got me started. I fell in love with weights and the power it gave me, and I have been hooked since.

The unexpected things that interrupt your plans can be hard sometimes. You may have a plan for the day to get things done, but they don't always work that way. Adapt and overcome.

I am trained as a dental technician. The job branches off into many different duties. I will perform duties ranging anywhere from administrative work in the office to cleaning teeth for service members.

I have grown in many ways. It wasn't until I was into the sport of fitness for about two years that I started seeking the nutritional aspect that makes all the difference. This is when I met my trainer, IFBB pro Zoa Linsey. Though I am not in Okinawa, Japan, anymore, my coach and I work out my plans and meals online.

I was looking into physiology or dentistry.

When I first joined, we were phasing out the "bike test." Now the testing is becoming more strict and there is zero tolerance for failure.

Being away from my family is a big obstacle. I've served in New Mexico, Hawaii, Japan and Turkey. The long days and nights can interrupt your fitness aspirations.

There is so much to do out here. Water sports gave me a broader look. I have been learning how to swim so I can go paddleboarding.

My meals have to be planned around my work schedule. Sometimes I am a few minutes late. But lucky for me, I have amazing coworkers who will look out for me for a few minutes so I can consume my meal.

Honestly, I think it is less difficult in the military. We are supposed to uphold a standard of fitness. And we have so many programs that offer help. We have access to many weight rooms and equipment and many people who can assist your fitness goals.

What I use: BPI Sports Blox, Nature's Best Zero Carb Isopure

How I use them: Three servings, one throughout the day, during workout and post. Only two shakes a day, pre/post workout.

After I achieve my dreams as a figure competitor, I will be crossing into Women's Physique. Hopefully I'll earn my pro card one day.

It has given me a stronger appearance and increased my confidence. All of these things affect my job as a dental technician and it shows pretty clearly. I inspire others without even knowing that I do.

Phil Heath and Zoa Linsey, both from the IFBB. Gina Allioti is my favorite Figure competitor, and I'd say Susan Salazar IFBB for physique.

If it is something you want really bad, make the time you need to achieve it, even if it requires you to lose a little sleep. The rewards are worth the sacrifice.