My mother influenced my healthy lifestyle at a young age. She took me to the gym and enrolled me in a variety of sports until I found one that fit. My dad is extremely athletic as well. He's well-known for his accomplishments in baseball and basketball during high school and college.
My dad had a spot on the Toronto Blue Jays (professional baseball), but got sick and lost it. My mom went to culinary school and taught me about clean eating to support my athletic figure. As a young child, I played softball, gymnastics, did karate, and all kinds of dance. Gymnastics stuck with me throughout the years. I loved to perform "tricks" everywhere. I spent hours in my front lawn doing gymnastics and stayed up doing crunches before bed.
In high school, I became a cheerleader and was front and center with strong tumbling and an enthusiastic personality. At football games, I got an adrenaline rush when the fans counted the number of flips I did down the field.
After high school, I started working at World Gym as a receptionist and did cardio constantly. I didn't know how to structure a workout plan or use most of the machines, but I maintained my gymnastics muscle. A friend/coworker suggested that I should compete. I didn't know much about it, but he explained it to me and it sounded like a good idea. I trained harder than ever and learned to follow a structured meal plan. I saw changes in my body that I never thought were possible and loved it. I competed in my hometown at the time at the NPC Mr. Ms. Buffalo Competition and placed third in figure open.
As I learned more about the sport, I discovered the fitness category. I watched a few routines and instantly fell in love. In buffalo, I didn't have the resources I needed to make it, so I made a big decision and moved to Houston, Texas, where I worked as a personal trainer in Katy, Texas. I found a well-known choreographer, Hoss Choreography, who helped me create a routine. In Texas, I work to help others reach their goals as I work to achieve mine.
In April, I competed at the Texas Shredder Classic and won overall fitness and the teen figure category. It was my first time competing in fitness and I can't wait to get on stage again.
After more upcoming shows, I plan to start an eight-week boot camp class. I also plan to help as many people as possible to live a healthy lifestyle and reach their fitness goals. My ultimate goal is to open a fitness center that has great scenery with my mom's organic cafe. I have the right personality and determination to reach this ultimate goal.
My mom's support and motivation from across the country has been so strong—even at my weakest moments, she gives me the power and strength to carry on.
I read articles on Bodybuilding.com, watch YouTube videos of my favorite competitors, and check out other competitors on social media.
I plan to keep competing. I'm hooked. I love to perform and make my friends and family back home proud.
Trust the process, and enjoy the ride. Never give up.
Jodi Boam is my favorite fitness competitor. I love her routines and style of training. I often visit her V-logs for inspiration.
When I first started training, Bodybuilding.com taught me about training and nutrition. I often visit the site for inspiration, tips, and recipes. BodySpace is great for connecting with other athletes and meeting new people in the industry.
- "Ride Wit Me" by Nelly
- "Ignition Remix" by R Kelly
- "Friday Night" by Girl Talk
- "Hands In The Air" by Girl Talk
- "Rage" by Deniz Koyu