Canadian Waples Set to Debut in Orlando

IFBB Figure Pro Natalie Waples will be making her pro debut this weekend in Orlando. Natalie turned pro last fall at the North American, one of the few shows Canadian residence can compete and reach IFBB pro status. I caught up with the Canadian Figure competitor today and here’s what she had to say…

Natalie Waples pro debut this weekend.

What have you worked on since turning pro last fall?
In terms of training I have been working hard at gaining some size in my back and delts (I naturally have very narrow shoulders so developing my delts have always been a challenge).  On the promtion side of things I have signed an agreement to promote Florida-based True Healthy Products and have also been spearheading the Serious About Fitness Fit Camps in Canada. I have also been shooting regualrly with Oxygen Magazine and working on my website.

What do you feel separates you from the other rookies as well as veterans in the Orlando show?
I have really tried to differentiate myself from other competitors in that I produce my own training DVDs, run several fitness camps, do promtional work for various sponsors and magazines (Oxygen, Inside Fitness, MuscleMag) and also offer consulation services and posing clinics for clients/competitors in Ontario, Canada. I feel this experience has really helped me to become a well rounded competitor in my understanding of the industry and helping others achieve their fitness goals. Plus, I’m Canadian eh!

That last line sums things up. LOL! Say no more. Okay just kidding Canada.

Do you feel it’s a challenge getting any love in the states being from Canada?
This will be my fourth show in the US (I’ve competed twice at the North Americans and also once at the Arnold Amateur) and have consistently been well received by the judges, so if I can gain some exposure south of the border, and meet more fellow competitors, I don’t see it being an issue.  Plus I have my coach Doug Schneider, fitness pro Mindi O’Brien and some friends from Canada all at this show, so I will definitely be keeping my eye out for them in the crowd.

What’s your goal as an IFBB Pro – not just this show but in general?
I would like to use my professional status to help promote the companies I work with (Interactive Nutrition, Natural Nutrition and True Healthy Products), as well as the Serious About Fitness Fit Camps. My next goal is to qualify for the Olympia and make the most out of my time on stage and the whole competitive experience. I love competing!

Can we expect to see you compete in any other shows?
I will be attending both the California and NYC Pro shows as well as one other this year (depenedent on how the Spring shows go). I know that is a tall order but I plan on making the most out of my rookie year.

When someone says Natalie Waples – what do you want them to think of or be known for?
I hope to promote a healthy, natural, athletic image and for fitness enthusiasts to feel comfortable approaching me with their questions.  I am going to ride this wave as long as I can, and have fun doing it.

Thanks Natalie and best of luck in your debut.
Thanks Isaac!

The Orlando Show of Champions will take place this weekend in Orlando, Florida. Stay tuned for more updates and interviews this week.