I played netball, basketball, and volleyball in high school and competing in school events like triathlons, cross country, and multi-sport. I enjoyed participating in these sports, but never felt I was good enough to make it far in any of them.
A few years ago, in my final year of high school, I started getting work experience at a local gym and was introduced to bodybuilding. I was hooked immediately. I've always been the competitive type, and after watching some of the trainers compete at regional and national bodybuilding championships, I instantly set that as my new goal.
I'm currently studying sports and leisure, which has helped immensely with dieting and training. Everything I learn I can relate to myself and my competition training.
I've been training at the gym for the past two years, but started specifically training for my first competition in February. After four months of strict dieting and training, I competed in my first competition in June at an NABBA show in shape class. This was an amazing experience that gave me a huge confidence. Now, I'm training to compete in the NZIFBB bikini class at the end of September.
My passion for bodybuilding emerged from the competitive streak inside me. Once I knew what was achievable, I wanted to do it, get better, and see. I love bodybuilding because I love the way it makes me look, feel, and the positive effect it has on my body. It allows me to de-stress and puts me in a positive mood. Seeing results from the hard work you put in is an amazing feeling. I love having a sport so different from everyone else's.
What motivates me most is knowing the hard work I put in will help me look and feel amazing. When I see the achievable results, it motivates me to work hard and achieve my goals. It's really encouraging when others tell you how good you look and notice the hard work you put in. This gives me an extra boost of motivation on those odd days when I feel less motivated. I know I have a long way to go, but this is what motivates me to work hard.
After seeing my first competition, I instantly knew bodybuilding was something I wanted to do. Whenever I'm looking for inspiration I think back to how good I felt when I first stepped on stage. It's inspiring looking at others transformations and seeing what they achieved. This gives me an extra boost on days when I need it.
I'm currently training to compete in the NZIFBB bikini class and I'm aiming to make nationals by the end of 2013. No matter what happens, I'll be proud of what I achieve.
You get out what you put in. You may not be there yet, but you're one step closer than you were yesterday. Always be proud of what you've achieved.
I'm reasonably new to the bodybuilding scene, so I don't know many competitors besides Jess Pendergrast, who's someone I look up to in New Zealand. She has worked really hard to be where she is at such a young age.
I love getting on Bodybuilding.com, checking out the forums, and reading various advice from others. I'm inspired by people on here who have worked so hard to get where they are today. It's an awesome place to share your goals and results with like-minded people. One day, I hope to be inspiring people like Jamie Eason does.