Fitness embodies all that is beautiful. There is no better example than a woman who is self-possessed, strong, athletic, and healthy. I consider it any woman's responsibility to lead by example how she'd like her children to care for themselves. Whenever I have the urge to stray from my healthy lifestyle, I ask myself what I would say to daughter in the same position and what advice I would give her. By caring for oneself as well as we care for our cherished children, we can teach them the power that comes from health. For years, I put my own needs behind my children's, and I now realize what a mistake that was, both for myself, and my children. I was cheating them out of a healthy role model, and essentially teaching them that once they become mothers that their own self loses importance. Now that I take time each day to train, I am a much better parent. I am also a better wife, more supportive friend, stronger daughter, and happier self. I can take time to enhance my own natural beauty with hair color and style, make up, and nails without feeling spoiled or vain. Even though my children may not grow up to be a fitness competitor or personal trainer, I know they will have the skills and knowledge to show their best selves to the world, and will likely experience success from that ability. Keeping myself strong makes me healthier in all ways; physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. Fitness is the tool that allows that to happen, and I am grateful to be a part of this sport.

Past Fitness Amateur Of The Week: http://www.bodybuilders.com/karenp.htm.

• Who: Karen Patten, Alaska's first IFBB Fitness Professional.
• Age: 33
• Where: Anchorage, Alaska
• Height: 5'3.5"
• Weight: 113-117
• Years Competing: 2.5

Competition History:

2004 Alaska State Fitness Overall
2004 Northern Lights/Lee Priest Classic Figure Overall
2004 Anchorage Figure Overall
2005 Alaska State Fitness Overall
2005 Alaska State Figure Overall
2005 Emerald Cup Fitness 2nd Place
2005 Northwest Fitness Overall
2005 Northwest Figure Medium 1st Place
2005 Fitness Nationals- 4th
2006 Emerald Cup Fitness Medium 1st Place
2006 Emerald Cup Fitness Overall
2006 Junior Nationals Fitness Medium 1st Place
2006 Team Universe Fitness Medium 1st Place (PRO CARD!!)
2006 Atlantic City ProAm, 11th Place

Occupation:

IFBB Fitness Professional
ISSA Certified Personal Fitness Trainer
Alaska Director, 911 Fitness Challenge
Mother of 3 Girls.