Name: Christina Adler
BodySpace: redheadlaw7
Height: 5'2"
Weight: 117 lb
Member Since: 2009
One of the greatest reasons to be a part of BodySpace is to watch real people overcome adversities and triumphantly reach their goals. Another inspiring aspect of Bodybuilding.com's social network is when those same people make it a point to tell their stories and help others do the same. An exceptional person who exemplifies both of these characteristics is Christina Adler, otherwise known as redheadlaw7.
After struggling with a personal battle from postpartum psychosis, Christina found a much-needed release valve when she stumbled across the joys of fitness. With her daughter to thank as the initial motivator, Christina turned her newfound passion into more than just a hobby! As an NPC national athlete, Christina already has several shows under her belt and has long-term plans to make a push for her pro card - she has no plans of stopping until she achieves it!
Redheadlaw7 is living proof that if the mind can conceive the goal, then the body can make it possible. Check out the one-on-one interview where she reveals all. Don't miss this great opportunity to be inspired by the newest BodySpace Member of the Month.
Tell us a little about yourself.
My name is Christina Adler. I am a 38-year-old wife and mother to two daughters. I like to call myself a "recovering attorney". I gave up practicing law so I can continue to write fitness and nutrition articles and blog on my postpartum recovery site www.redheadlaw7.com.
She may not be practicing anymore, but
redheadlaw7 still lays down the law in the gym.
How long have you been visiting Bodybuilding.com and using BodySpace?
I have been a member for a little more than two years now.
What was it that led you to decide to start focusing on your health and fitness?
After having my second child, I suffered from postpartum psychosis, which led to me being overweight, overmedicated and miserable. My oldest daughter begged me to go to mommy-daughter yoga class with her because she wanted her mommy to feel better. From that point on, I started making my health a big priority in my life. I started taking Pilates classes, and then I got addicted to Les Mills' BODYPUMP. Eventually I hired a personal trainer to help push myself a little further. Now I'm hooked.
Do you compete, or do you stay so dedicated for other reasons?
Yes I do compete. I have several local and NPC contests under my belt and I recently qualified to compete in the NPC on the national level in both masters and open figure. I have several contests scheduled for the fall and I plan to compete until I get my pro card. It may take a few years, but I'm not one to back away from a challenge.
What is the most important thing you've learned since you started training?
I think this is a tie between learning how important nutrition is to build a body and that lifting heavy weights is not going to make a female big and bulky. I would have started eating way more and I would have hired a trainer sooner if I knew what I know now. I can never emphasize enough how important it is that women work out with trainers or lifting partners that can push them harder and farther in the gym. You never know just how hard you can push yourself if you always fear getting trapped under a bar or dropping something.
What is your favorite body part to train and why?
I absolutely love training legs. I love setting PRs with legs and I love the days after when I can barely sit down or stand up. It's those days that I feel like I've really accomplished something.
Can you believe that redheadlaw7 loves training legs?
What is the best fitness advice you could give to someone who is just starting?
I think the best thing any person can do is find a good trainer and have them get you familiar with the gym, the equipment and your body. Yeah, it may be a little expensive, but so is wasted time. I know so many people who are willing to spend a ton of money on hair or clothing so they can look good, but think hiring a trainer is a luxury.
I think if you have a set plan that suits you best, you can spend way less time in the gym puttering around and spinning your wheels on exercises that aren't going to help you reach your full potential. Once you get yourself into shape you can worry less about dolling yourself up to look good. In the end, you've spent a little more money to look and feel fabulous in whatever you're wearing.
How often do you treat yourself to a cheat food and what is your favorite?
I am very embarrassed to say that I treat myself to cheat foods way too often. My biggest weakness is something I came up with while doing the Ketogenic diet. I would mix cream cheese, crunchy peanut butter and cocoa powder together and it tasted just like cheesecake. Now that I'm in the middle of contest prep I can't have any dairy so I treat myself to dark chocolate and peanut butter flavored almonds. They are to die for, but so hard to stop eating once I get started.
Why do you think BodySpace would be beneficial to others?
I don't think there is a better place to go to exchange ideas, tips, advice or inspiration having to do with nutrition or fitness. The site is packed with competitors, trainers, dietitians and beginners and everyone is so happy and willing to offer up their knowledge and support. And one of my favorite parts of BodySpace is being able to watch people's progress and view inspirational photos.
They always say a picture is worth a thousand words and when people see the truly inspirational profiles on your main page I don't think there's any better example. There's proof right there that it can be done.
BodySpace
BodySpace is your key to bodybuilding, transformation, or fitness success. Create your profile, start a BodyBlog, meet others with similar goals, and share information.
Join the largest online fitness communityWhat are your future fitness goals?
I plan on competing as long as my body holds up and I hope to continue to be an inspiration to others.
Is there anything you would like to say to all the BodySpace people out there?
I'd like to thank everyone for being so supportive, helpful and friendly. It really is an incredible place that I love visiting every day for my daily dose of motivation and inspiration.