HARDBODY Fit Female News & Events

One of the things NPC Bodybuilder Jerome Ferguson is known for is his wild posing to “Who Let the Dogs Out”. On Christmas Eve 2009, he took a different approach to letting the dogs out. He tied an engagement ring to a new puppy and let it loose on his girlfriend, IFBB Fitness Pro Marnie Holley. Jerome proceeded to get on one knee and asked for her hand in marriage. She graciously accepted and the two plan to wed this summer. I’m told they have something very special planned for the wedding but it’s a surprise and will be kept under wraps.

Congratulations!

Marnie is the 2007 CBBF Canadian National Fitness Champion and current IFBB Fitness Pro. She last competed at the 2009 Atlantic City Pro Fitness.

I caught up with IFBB Fitness Pro Bethany Wagner to get her thoughts on being added to the 2010 Arnold. She’ll be competing in the Fitness International for the first time and will face the challenge of a shorter prep than her competitors. Bethany also shared why she skipped the 2009 Fitness Olympia and more. Check it out.

HB: How did you hear you’d been added to the Fitness International list?
BW: I received a phone call Monday morning. (January 18th)

HB: What were your thoughts when you’d heard?
BW: I’m glad you asked for thoughts b/c there were a few.

What? Wow? Are you serious?

Oh my god can I get ready in time?

Since I was not invited originally I was going to wait and compete at the NY Pro Fitness in April. When I got the call I was only 1 week into my contest prep. My biggest concern right now is prep time. I usually do a 12 week prep… and I want to bring my best package every time I step on stage (especially the Arnold). I think I can do it.

HB: So you weren’t planning to do the Phoenix Pro show?
BW: No. I would love to be able to do a “prep” show before the Arnold. However I am only allotted a specific amount of personal days, which limits when I can compete during the school year.

HB: Let’s take a look back for a minute. You took a pass at the Fitness Olympia last year – why was that?
BW: Yes – I qualified for the Olympia in Atlantic City in September last year. I was so excited to place 3rd and it was such an honor to be invited to the Olympia. But, I have to put my career as a teacher and a coach first. In addition to teaching, I coach high school gymnastics and track. The weekend of the Olympia my team had a gymnastics meet. If I had qualified earlier I could have rescheduled the meet. Hopefully this year I will qualify in plenty of time to make both my careers work together!

HB: Ah so it’s true you ARE a teacher. What do you teach?
BW: Yes its true! I have been teaching for 4 years. I teach high school biology to sophomores, and Anatomy and Physiology to seniors. As I mentioned before after school I coach gymnastics in the fall, and track in the winter and spring. Before that I was a Division I gymnastics coach at the University of Pittsburgh.

HB: Do your students follow your fitness career?
BW: Yes. It is hard to hide leaving on Friday looking ‘normal’ and come back Monday with a great tan that peels and fades unevenly and turns a slight tint of orange sometimes. Lol. Don’t forget it is the age of the internet and google is a powerful tool. They always ask what I’m eating or tease me “Wagner its 3:00 isn’t it time to eat?”.

It has actually benefited me for them to know I am into lifting and fitness. As a coach they know I am knowledgeable in athletics, as a teacher I teach about the human body and being involved in fitness has greatly increased my knowledge. Plus, they know I can kick their butts if they don’t behave or do their homework.

HB: You tried your hand at Figure last year – did you like it and will we see you in Figure again this year?
BW: I’m not sure. Competing in NY Pro Figure was a spontaneous decision. I had just competed in Atlantic City the weekend before, so I was already in shape. I live 30 minutes from TriBeca, there were no travel costs, so I decided to give it a try.

Also, I enjoy competing and there are only 5 Fitness Competitions a year (not including Arnold and Olympia). I hope it opened up an avenue to compete more.

HB: Last questions as I know you’re a busy woman. I heard you’re recently engaged. Is it true and if so how did the proposal go and when can we expect the wedding bells?
BW: Yes I am recently engaged to Gaetano (Guy) Cisternino Jr.. (Who actually convinced me I will be ready in 7 short weeks!) We got engaged at a ski lodge in December. It was very sweet, very low key. We were just relaxing in front of the fireplace (watching football) – and he said he had an early Christmas present for me but it wasn’t wrapped so I had to close my eyes. He left to get the present and when he came back he got down on one knee…. I was scared to open my eyes b/c I wasn’t sure if it was real!

We are very excited and happy to say the least! We plan to be married January 2011.

HB: Congratulations on the proposal and the invite to the Arnold. We’ll see you there.
BW: Thank you!

See contest photos and info on Bethany here.

IFBB Pro Heather Armbrust is one of the top female bodybuilders in the game today. She’s considered by many to be the biggest threat to beating current Ms. Olympia and Ms. International, Iris Kyle. Unfortunately the remtach with have to wait until the Olympia stage in September. Heather has withdrawn her name from the 2010 Arnold competition due to an injury.

I caught up with Heather after the news was made public. When asked if she was ok and if the injury is career ending she shared, “It’s a minor set back. Actually, there are a few but I will deal with them and get them back to normal. I am tough and train through things that I never mention but it’s a mixture of pains and personal”.

Does this mean the end of her career though? “NO! I’m not done where would you get that? I am going to compete at the Olympia for sure. I want that title,” shared the clearly disappointed but anxious competitor.

Heather went on to say, “I apologize and thank everyone for their support. With the mixture of all that is going on, I just want them to understand that I’m doing what is best for the sport and to make a better me when I do step on stage so my supporters will be proud when I do get my win.”

We’ll see Heather back on stage this fall at the 2010 Ms. Olympia competition.

Check out some past training footage of Heather recently posted on Bodybuilding.com.

See more training clips with Heather on Bodybuilding.com.

The Arnold Classic invites were announced last month, right before Christmas. A number of women were elated when Santa arrive early while others were left pondering why they’d been put on the naughty list. It’s not an easy task to make it on the invited list and several very good girls didn’t make the short list. Since that time there’s been some shuffling and it isn’t done yet.

First we learned that Kristal Richardson wouldn’t be able to compete due to her hernia surgery late last year. She will compete this year however the recovery is taking longer than expected. We then learned that Tracey Greenwood was out and will go under the knife for a knee surgery. Next up was Jen Hendershott who cited nagging injuries and personal issues. Earlier this week we learned that Jessica Paxson withdrew her name due to personal issues.

I’ve learned a fifth invited pro intends to withdraw her name from the list before the contracts are due this Friday. Look for more information on this soon.

A few people have asked me why so many women are opting out. My response – Life Happens. Injuries are unfortunate and never planned, especially to Fitness competitors. Sometimes life throws you a curveball and lives are affected. At the end of the day the pros are no different than you or I. They face many of the challenges we do and often times more. It’s unfortunate that we won’t see some of the industry’s best on stage but right behind them are other hungry, willing and accepting competitors worthy of a spot and a chance at the title.

Such is the case with the Figure International. Twitter followers of ArnoldSports learned that Cristina Casoni of Milan, Italy was added to the invited list. The Arnold committee could have easily added another U.S. competitor however they added an International Figure competitor. Those who complain that the event doesn’t invite enough International competitors might want to reconsider. Congratulations to Cristina for getting the invite.

I’ll post the final competitor lists this weekend once all the contracts are in and we know who will be on stage in Columbus.

IFBB Figure Pro Jessica Paxson Putnam posted on her facebook minutes ago, “Thank you to all my family, friends, & supporters. I appreciate the emails, posts, & tesxts….I’ve withdrawn from The Arnold for personal reasons. Thank you.”

This would have been Jessica’s first trip to the Figure International stage.

Jess becomes the fourth invited competitor to opt out of the 2010 Arnold.

Two-time Ms. Fitness International Champion, Jen Hendershott informed me that she will NOT be on stage competing for her third title this year. Stay tuned for more information on why fitness fans won’t be seeing her on stage and if this means retirement.

The current Fitness Olympia champion, Adela Garcia had a glow about her last night at the NPC National competitor check-in. Adela is usually a very happy, upbeat person to begin with but there was something different about her. She couldn’t stop smiling no matter what the conversation. A shiny gem, gracing her left hand, caught my attention which prompted me to ask… Adela what is that?! Like a kid in a candy store she enthusiastically responded with, “sorry to crush your dreams Isaac but I am now engaged.” Ahhhh Adela. You have to love her as she’s always got a joke or three.

Last Monday Adela went to get her hair styled at a friend’s house when she was told to go into a room different than usual. When she went entered the room her boyfriend of nearly two years, Trent Calavan had a ring surrounded by a heart of rose petals waiting for her. It was then he popped the question and the fitness champ graciously accepted his offer in marriage.

Adela all smiles when showing her engagement ring.

Adela and Trent met in a Texas gym and she tells me he didn’t really know who she was. The two were scheduled to go on a group date for their first outing but Trent canceled. The move prompted Adela to txt and ask him what was up with the dis. They ended up hitting a sushi place and as they say, the rest is history. No date has been set for the wedding but it’s obvious Adela couldn’t be happier.

I’ve had the pleasure of meeting Trent and he is a solid guy. Congratulations to the happy couple and all the best in your years ahead.

Curious how many people are competing in each division of this weekend’s NPC Nationals? Wonder no more, here’s the current competitor breakdown for each division. Note this could change once the check-in takes place on Thursday evening/Friday morning. As you can see Figure will dominate once again but note the number of bikini competitors has surpassed the female bodybuilding entries.

2009 NPC National Competitor Number Breakdown:
Bikini – 76
Female Bodybuilding – 74
Figure – 191
Men’s Bodybuilding – 195

IFBB Figure Pro Alicia Harris had a break out rookie year. She was competitive in every show she competed in this year and at the end, graced the prestigious Figure Olympia stage. Alicia also notched a cover for Muscle & Fitness Hers along the way. In the final chapter of 2009, she added yet another accolade to her already impressive young career… an endorsement contract with Optimum / ABB.

The head of athlete management for Optimum/ABB, Bob Corbett shared, “We’re VERY excited to announce that IFBB Figure Pro, Alicia Harris has joined Team ON/ABB.  Alicia brings a fresh look and enthusiasm to our team and she’s an up and comer in the world of figure. We look forward to supporting her and know she will bring a great deal of insight and expertise to the team.  Alicia will join fellow IFBB Pros, Jessica Paxson-Putnam, Hazal Nelson, Charles Dixon and George Farah to our team.”

When I congratulated Alicia on the signing she enthuastically told me, “It’s a blessing to get any kind of help inthis industry and I’m grateful that ON has given me the opportunity to represent them. I’m very grateful!”

Alicia’s first stop for ON/ABB will be at their booth for next week’s NPC Nationals. Congratulations Alicia on a kick ass year.

Mindi Smith is locked and loaded for her first NPC Figure competition, this weekend’s NPC Sacramento. I caught up with Mindi on the heels of the show and she was kind enough to share a bit about herself. This is one California girl you won’t soon forget.

Name: Mindi Smith

Born/Raised in: Saginaw, Michigan

Currently Live in: Los Angeles, CA

What’s been the best part of living in California? I love the weather and it’s so beautiful! You have the ocean, mountains, valley, and an amazing climate all rolled into one state!

What made you move out of Michigan? I couldn’t bare the cold winters any longer and had wanted to move somewhere warm. I ended up in Florida!

What’s your favorite sport to participate in? Throughout school I was into Track & Field and was always competitive. I loved the adrenaline rush you get before they fire the gun!

Favorite sport to watch? Football

College or NFL? College

Favorite team? Ohio State

Whoa, wait. You’re from Michigan and you’re a Buckeye’s fan? Ha. My Dad is from Ohio and roots for them so I back him up and take the slack from all the Michiganders after me!

You’re a liscened real estate agent, right… Do you miss being in it? I have my license in Florida and California.  I do miss how the economy was during the boom a few years ago!

This weekend you will be competing at the NPC Sacramento. What made you decide to compete in the NPC? I competed in my first show for the WBFF in September of this year which gave me the itch to push myself farther and be the best I could possibly be.  As a result, that lead me to compete in the NPC.

Watch out for a determined Ms. Smith.

Did you ever consider competing in fitness? When I was little I was involved in dance and gymnastics, but that was long long ago.  I have thought about possibly competing in fitness, but it would take a lot of work to see if I could pull off those incredible moves those girls do on stage!

You’ve enlisted the help of trainer Kim Oddo for your prep. How important has it been to have him assist with your prep? I was referred to working with Kim when I had inquired about possibly competing in the NPC.  I have to say, meeting Kim has been one of the most amazing experiences of my life and it has just started!  He’s an amazing guy who is so educated and well known in the industry, I couldn’t have asked to have met a better person to guide me in the right direction and help me be my best.  He has taken all the headache out of everything and it has been smooth sailing since starting our journey and I’m so excited to see what the future holds for us!!

Will you be competing at the NPC Nationals in a couple weeks? Well, I have to place well at the NPC Sacramento Show to qualify for the NPC Nationals, but if it all goes successfully you’ll be seeing me there for sure!

You’ve done quite a few things in the fitness industry. What advice do you have for other women who are looking to get work or involved in the fitness modeling biz? I have been involved in the fitness industry for some time now and have done quite a few shoots for fitness magazines, videos/DVDs, and infomercials. Getting your face out there and networking, networking! Networking is a big part of growing as a fitness model!

You mentioned videos. You have your own YouTube channel and on there is a video fo you and fitness model, James Ellis. Do you think you can bench more than him? Haha! James is a great friend of mine and he’s been putting some extra hours in the gym lately.  I’ll definitely put up a good fight, but in the end I think James would kick my butt!

How important is it as a model to have good images in your portfolio? Having a strong portfolio of fitness pictures to use to promote yourself is very important.  You should take note of different fitness photographers you admire and try to network with them.

Mindi in a Supreme Protein Ad.

Anyone you want to give a shout out to? I want to give many thanks to Kim Oddo for everything he’s done for me.  He’s gone over and above everything I had ever dreamed of and I am so very thankful.  He’s truly a genuinely good person and I will be forever grateful!  I can’t wait to go out there and make him proud!!

Thanks Mindi and all the best this weekend in Sacramento. If you’re like to see more of Mindi, visit her BODYSPACE page.

Last month, Monica Mark was awarded the overall figure title at the 2009 NPC Team Universe contest. She presented a refined physique showed promise heading into the pro ranks. The blonde beauty from California had her sights set on next weekend’s Sacramento Pro as her IFBB Figure debut. Unfortunately, that debut will have to wait.

Monica informed me that she was unfortunately been diagnosed with swine flu last Saturday. She is currently taking an antibiotic and attempting to rest.  When I asked her how she was doing she shared, “It’s completely draining. I can’t exercise and have to take it easy.”

Monica was a favorite amongst many to leave her Mark in the top spots at this contest. Despite the disappointment, Monica is in good spirits and assures me we’ll see her on stage soon. Don’t be surprised if you see her make the Figure International at the Arnold her debut.

Get well soon Monica.

You’ve seen Kristal Marshall mentioned on this site a few times. She took home the overall bikini trophy at this year’s NPC USA contest and was runner-up earlier at the innagural bikini event. Now she’s adding another title to her list of accomplishments. Kristal tells me she has signed on with TNA wrestling. You might recall Kristal was a WWE diva before jumping into the fitness world. Now she’ll look to do both. You can catch Kristal and her man Bobby Lashley on SPIKE TV this Thursday night.  Congrats on the continued success Kristal!

Kristal and Bobby return to wrestling. This time it’s with TNA Wrestling.

Muscle & Fitness recently featured a few women of TNA in their magazine. Check out some of the photos from the shoot here.

Kathleen Tesori has been a busy woman this year. Since winning the 2008 FLEX bikini model search contest, she’s gone on to do a number of things. I caught up with Kathleen for a quick video interview just as the 2009 Olympia Expo was getting started.

She served as a judge for the 2009 FLEX Bikini Model search and passed her title onto winner Amanda Latona.

Kathleen taking a break from her judging duties for a photo.

We posted a poll in July as to whether Kathleen should compete in Bikini or Figure and the results were split. During the time of the video interview she was two weeks out from competing in her first NPC figure competition. Kathleen checked back with the good news… she won the overall figure title at the NPC Utah Nutrimart Classic. She tells me she had a little held from her friend Felicia Romero for her contest prep. Felicia just a week out from her own show (which she also won) flew into lend a helping hand.

Felicia Romero and Kathleen Tesori with the hardware.

Kathleen with her overall trophy.

Kathleen had a great time competing so much so that she has her sights set on the 2009 NPC Nationals next month in Florida.  She’s definitely one to watch at next month’s event.

As if preparing for a contest wasn’t enough, Kathleen landed a small but fun role in the MTV show Bully Beatdown. She plays the ring girl for the popular show that airs every Thursday on MTV. Kathleen looks like she could lay a pretty good beat down on some of the guys on the show.

Kathleen hard at work. Photos from MTV.com

Kathleen showing off her sexy side. Photos from MTV.com

Check out more photos of Kathleen on MTV.com. Congrats on the continued success Kathleen and we’ll see you in Florida next month!

We caught up with the newest BSN girl, Natasha Wicks at the 2009 Olympia Expo. Natasha won the UFC Octagon Ring Girl search in July. In case you missed the profile on her, check it out here. The Olympia Expo was just getting started when we chatted with the rising star.  Natasha is a very sweet girl and welcomed addition to the BSN roster. Check out the video to find out more about this blonde beauty.

Natasha at the BSN booth during the 2009 Olympia.

This weekend at the IFBB Ft. Lauderdale Cup, Anna Level will take the stage for the first time in five years. The last time we saw her compete was the 2004 Fitness Olympia where she finished tenth. So why did she decide to return now? I caught up with this seasoned pro to find out and also what she’s been doing since we last saw her.

Currently reside in:
Currently I live in Miramar, Florida.

Turned pro at:
I turned Fitness Pro in the year 2000, in New York.

Last Pro show:
Olympia 2004

Why did you stop competing?
I wanted to start a family. Competing & dieting was making it almost impossible. I wasn’t getting any younger either. So taking a break from competing was the right decision.

What have you been doing since you were last on stage?
I traveled for a while & did quite a few guest appearances with Weider, which I’m still sponsored by. I got pregnant and had my beautiful son James Rafael who is now two years old. All my time went to him so I was very busy raising & taking care of him. It is a full time job all by itself. I still kept myself involved in the industry though. I have a show, the Anna Level Fitness & Figure Classic in combination with the NPC West Palm Beach Bodybuilding Championship. I’m very proud to say this
was the sixth year of the show.

Why come back to the stage now?
More than anything to prove myself that even after having a baby & very little time for myself I still have it. I can get in shape & show that having a family can’t take away from keep pursuing  your dreams. It’s just a personal goal.

How have you balanced being a mom and staying fit?
The baby keeps me pretty busy, he is pretty active but I need to make time for myself. Everything is about balance so my schedule is much better now, but before I used to train & eat around his schedule. You can’t function properly if you don’t eat & rest, we all know that. I just try to manage my time the best I can. Now I have a full time job as the Fitness Director of Metamorphecise Health & Spa, in Pembroke Pines. So talk about having balance try a family, traveling, guest posing, modeling,
training AND competing. Piece of cake. haha.

Good luck Anna and we’ll see you at the show.
Thank you.

See more of Anna on her web site: http://www.annalevel.net. Anna will be competing in FIGURE and not FITNESS at this show.

IFBB Figure Pro Felicia Romero had quite the weekend in Las Vegas. She placed 9th at the Figure Olympia but the bigger news came off the stage for this cover girl.

Damian & Felicia are all smiles.

While working the Olympia Expo her boyfriend, Damian Sergovia, sprung the big question on her. The nervous lad (and who wouldn’t asking the question around thousands of people) from Arizona asked Felicia to be his wife. Felicia tells me she is still in shock about the proposal but she’s super excited. No date has been set as of yet. Congratulations and all the best in your years ahead as husband and wife.

IFBB Pro Sonia Gonzales is hanging up her figure suit and saying so long the the competitive figure stage. Hold up, she’s not leaving IFBB competition.

The brown-eyed beauty has decided to make the transition from Pro Figure to Pro Bikini in 2010. When I asked Sonia what her thoughts were about the move she shared, “I’m really excited about my new venture. I think bikini is the right fit for me.” I’d have to agree that bikini does appear to be a better fit for Sonia, at least in the way we’ve seen the judging go as of late in the NPC shows. Will Sonia be rock’n the scrunchy bottoms in her debut? “Of course and for the next few months I’ll be working closely with my trainer and nutritionist, Kim Oddo, on changing my physique into a more streamlined bikini look,” she shared.

We look forward to seeing ya show’n some sass in the bikini division next year. Good luck Sonia!

This may be one of my favorite images of the year. Frame right you have one of the top female bodybuilders in the world, Heather Armbrust. Frame left you have the sad reality of what many Americans look like. Talk about capturing the extremes of body fat…

Heather eating at the Denver Airport before the Ms. Olympia.

Heather tells me she will be around 161lbs on stage which will be about 10-11 pounds lighter than she was at the Arnold. She is definitely lean and about ten minutes after she ate you could see her fill up and the veins popp’n. Heather is ready and sporting a darker hair color with no highlights.

We are just days out from the 2009 Fitness Olympia and with Jen Hendershott and Kim Klien out of the line-up there’s a handful of women who will likely contend for the title. One of those contenders is Columbus, Ohio resident Julie Palmer. Julie has improved her routines over the years and always fares well in the physique rounds. I caught up with the buckeye as she heads into her 7th Olympia, will it prove to be her lucky number?

Highest finish at the Olympia?
Last year. 4th place was my highest placing.

What’s the hardest part about preparing for the Olympia when you’ve done it so many times before?
I think the hardest part for me personally is that I have kids in my house who are getting ready to go back to school, football season is in full effect at my house and things are just crazy with all the fall competitions. So it makes it hard at time to make mself a priority. Especially this past week, we had 38 competitors preparing for our state show here in Columbus that I help co-promote ontop of the other 30 competitors who went to Team Universe. Some how I get everything done but it gets stressful.

You always place well in the physique rounds, will we see a repeat in Vegas with that?
I am hoping so. I am really happy with how I am looking right now. I have made some improvements since the Arnold to my physique so I am very anxious to get on stage.

What can we expect from your routine next week?
I won’t tell much but it is not the same routine as the Arnold but it is fun.

With Jen Hen out and Adela coming off an injury you’re in the mix for the title. Does it make you nervous or more focused as you prepare for the show?
I try not to get nervous. I always try to focus on just what I need to do to be better than I was last year when I was in Vegas and continue to show the judges that I am improving. My biggest competition is myself.

Adela won the Europa and Tracey just won the Atlantic City show. Why don’t we see Julie Palmer’s name this year on the list other than the Arnold and Olympia?
Well, I had plans to do some of the early spring shows this year but I tore all the tendons and ligaments in my ankle at the Arnold so I had to let my ankle head and recover so I could be at my best when it matters the most.

How’s your ankle doing and what’s been the key to a full recovery?
My ankle is great, I can do everything and walk in my heels with no problem. I have to admit I am not the best at taking care of myself so when I did it, I did not take any time off.  I was bad. I just worked through what I could and could not do.  Over time it has heeled and lots of massages on it has helped as well as stretching and strengthening it.

You’ve fared well in Florida shows before, will you be heading to the Ft. Lauderdale Pro?
No, I won’t be there this year. I have to work the Chicago Marathon for GNC that weekend.

What do you think about the announcement of the 45-second and the one-piece going away?
I think I am one of the rare girls who is disappointed that we will not have it next year. This is fitness and the 45 gives us girls a chance to show true skills and focus less on the entertainment value of a routine. For people like myself and Tracey we are not considered “routine girls” but we can execute the 45 second well and score well. The one-piece round has always been one of my strong rounds. Without the two rounds this does not separate us any differently than the amatuer competitors.

In your opinion, which Fitness Pro competitor shows the most potential to be one of the next top tier girls?
I think that Tina Durkin shows the most potential because of her physique and Nicole Duncan if she can get her dieting under control.

What advice do you give to women who want to do fitness but say they can’t do a routine?
I would ask them what skills and background they have. If they have some skills and they have a hard work ethic then I would say go for it. You can only get better if you practice and take the time to do some homework. Fitness needs girls and anyone who is willing to give it 100% can be successful if they have the patience but it takes patience and hard work.

Best of luck this weekend in Vegas!

Monica will be competing at the Team Universe event this weekend in New York. I caught up with Monica on the eve of her show. Get to know a bit more about this NPC figure competitor and what she says about early morning cardio.

Name: Monica Mark Escalante

Born/Raised in: San Diego, CA

Currently Reside in: Rancho Cucamonga, CA

Number of NPC shows and placing:
Six NPC shows
2009 NPC USAs 2nd place B Class
2008 NPC Junior Nationals 10th place B Class
2007 NPC USAs 6th place A Class
2007 NPC Team Universe Figure Nationals 5th Place A Class
2007 NPC Ironman Figure 1st place A Class and Overall Winner
2006 NPC Arizona State Champion 1st Place A Class and Overall Winner

Monica from an IRONMAN magazine shoot.

Are you still personal training people and if so what type of clients do you have?
I am currently still personal training clients as well as running the facility where we also do  physical therapy, massage therapy and have a body spa. The type of clients I have range from so many different walks of life, from business professionals,stay at home moms, athletes and to the older geriatric client. That variety makes my job so interesting and enjoyable. It is always fun to help a client reach their potential of one day stepping on stage, but there is something very gratifying knowing you helped an older client accomplish everyday tasks, like for example walking up and down the stairs or getting up and down from a chair.

How did you get your start in competing?
To one day step on stage had been one of my dreams since I was eighteen years old and I first opened an “Oxygen” magazine. Monica Brant immediately became my idol and I dreamed of obtaining a physique just like hers. Not to sound corny, but my room was covered wall to wall with pictures of her to motivate me. It was then that I started weight training consistently and it became my new lifestyle. I didn’t decide to compete until 2006 when I knew I was physically and mentally ready to make the commitment. My first show was the 2006 NPC Arizona State Championship.

You came in what looked to be over-dieted last year. What went wrong last year and what did you change this year?
The phrase “smaller and tighter” kept repeating in my head. I over shot my conditioning and before I knew it I had become too lean. I lost all over my feminine curves and lines and it showed in my 10th placing. This year we have kept a close eye on my conditioning and weight. If I start to lean out too much I start to consume more fats daily and decrease my cardio. A great example would be the USAs this year in July I was eating a lot of calories all the way up to the show, (quite different than any other show I had done where fish and aspragus seem to be the special at every meal).

Do you feel it’s important to have a trainer/nutritionist for competitions?
I feel it is crucial to have a trainer/ nutrtionist for a competition even if you aren’t a rookie. Our body’s can change from show to show and what you physique you need to bring to each show also changes so a standard diet to follow each show usually wont give you the best outcome.When we look at our own bodys it is hard to have a clear image of what we really look like and to have that outside opinion is critical. With out my tranier Kim Oddo I might have brought the over condiotioned look to the USAs this year. A trainer/ nutritionist can also offer great mental support and motivation at those hard days.

How much cardio do you typically do a day?
The amount of cardio depends on how my body is responding, but usually ranges from 45 minutes to an hour and has gone up to two hours before.

photo courtesy of Monica Mark.

Do you have best results doing it first thing in the morning on an empty stomach or another time?
I do have great results from early morning cardio. I have made it part of my life for the last two years I have been competing. I feel so much better going through my day knowing that task has already been accomplished. I am now a very “early bird”. I probably get more done in the morning than most people get done all day. My first year of competing I tried to get in my cardio done at all different times of the day it then became a chore and created a bit of misery doing it.

Any favorite supplements you enjoy the most?
Supplements that I can’t leave with out would be my whey and casein protein. I enjoy Isoflex Chocolate Whey Protein by Allmax and Chocolate Casein Protein by Optimum Nutrition. I also enjoy Evogen before I lift weights and Cortisol Complex by Body by O. I use Nitro Burn PM before bed because it helps me relax and get a good nights sleep.

How important is it to have a significant other who understands and supports your competition side of life?
I think it is very important and  I couldn’t imagine life any other way for me. This sport is a lifestyle and differently needs a great support system. I am very lucky to have a husband that only understands, but is my biggest fan and competes himself.. So together we can go through the highs and lows of prepping for a show. We pick each other up when one of us has a hard day and we praise each others accomplishments. I always tease him and always remind him how lucky he is to have a pre-contest gourmet chef  in the kitchen.

You used to play tennis right? What did you think of the Serena Williams outburst?
I did play tennis and I still do enjoy playing a match here and there when I can. I think Serena Williams outburst was out of line. As an athlete things aren’t always going to go our way. We aren’t going to always win and in her case overreacting with profanity to the judge not only cost her the match it cost her loss of respect. As a tennis icon and having a lot of fans and admirers, some of which are children she did not exhibit sportsmanship and carried an attitude of self-righteousness. She needs to work on controlling that fire inside that drives her to be a great athlete.

You were so close to turning pro at NPC USAs. Is it easier to get motivated placing second or placing 10th at a show?
I feel they are both motivating. To be right there and almost taste the win makes you want it even more and to place 10th motivated me to work harder to get to the top.

What will be the deciding factor that puts you in the winner’s circle over your competition this weekend?
I think paying attention to every single detail will put me in the winner’s circle. Making sure my presentation is on point on stage and must importantly  go out there and have fun.

Anyone you want to thank and how can people get in touch with you for personal training?
I would like to thank my parents and my husband for giving me the strongest support system and understanding my dreams. I would also like to thank Kim Oddo always for believing in me and giving me all the necessary tools to succeed.

My website is monfit.com and I am on myspace and facebook.

Thanks Monica and good luck this weekend.

If these photos are an indication of what the women in the Figure Olympia will look like next week… This is going to be a great contest. Ron Avidan gives us a sneak peak at what some of the contenders are looking like two weeks out from the show.

Top contender Gina Aliotti two weeks out.

Sonia Gonzales ready for the big dance.

Meriza ready to rock.

Check out more photos from the weekend in Cali of other contenders and industry peeps.

LT interviews 2x Figure Olympia runner-up Gina Aliotti at the 2009 NPC Tournament of Champion. Gina was judging the NPC event in Culver City over the weekend. Gina shares that she is lighter in weight and has streamlined her physique. She does look to be sporting a smaller, tighter physique in this vide. She’s says she’s “been training like a champ” and looking to leave Vegas as one.

Behind every man is a good woman or so the saying goes. In the Lewis residence of Murfreesboro, Tennessee that certainly holds true. Many people in the bodybuilding industry are aware of pro bodybuilder James “Flex” Lewis but few are aware of Mrs. Lewis, until now. Flex will take the stage again this weekend in Atlantic City but this time he’ll be joined on stage by his better half. No, she won’t be striking any most muscular poses but Shina Mitchell-Lewis will join him on stage as a NPC bikini competitor. I caught up with Shina and she shares a bit about herself and how she met the man of her dreams.

Name:
Shina Mitchell-Lewis

Born/raised in:
Born in Lansing Michigan, raised in Columbia, Tennessee

Currently live in:
Murfreesboro, Tennessee

Contest History:
2006 Greater Knox Classic Figure class C 2ND place. 2006 Tennessee State Championships Figure Class B 3rd place

Some may not know (maybe living in a cave) but who is your husband?
My husband and best friend is IFBB Pro James “Flex” Lewis!! He is a Gaspari Nutrition Athlete and is also sponsored by Weider Publications.

How did you two meet?
Flex and I met back in 2006. I was getting ready to compete in my first figure show and I had noticed on a Contest Flyer that Flex was going to be a guest poser at the show I was competing in. So you know back then MY SPACE was HUGE!!! So I found his picture and sent a friend request along with a message saying “you don’t know me but I will be competing in the Knoxville show and you know my trainers, so it would be nice to meet you…we are all going out for pizza after the show”, well at least a week or so went by and NO reply!! so I sent another message but this time it said “FINE don’t add me as your friend no cheesecake for you”… and it worked ….he finally messaged me back and added me and from that moment we have never lost contact!!

Two weeks into emailing, txting and finally calling he invited me to fly out to California to attend a Charity Golf event. Shawn Ray was in charge of who was going to attend this Charity even and he told Flex to bring me along…. so with a lot of thought and prayer I accepted his offer. I had asked my father to pray over the situation, bc if you knew me then I would have never flew clear across the country to meet some man from my space…LOL but he wasn’t just some man my father told me… My father came back and said he felt in his heart that if I didn’t fly over to meet Flex that I would regret it in the future…

So with a $500.00 credit limit on my “college” only credit card I BOOKED the flight. Mind you this was four weeks out from my first show…but I knew I had to meet him!!

The day finally came when I met him face to face. As I was descending into Orange County I txted my mother and best friends and said ” I think I am going to throw up bc I am about to meet the man I am going to marry”!! Seriously, I knew before I met him that I would spend the rest of my life with him…and three and a half years later I am happily married to that man!! He is a blessing and I love him so much.

Wow, that’s awesome and vert a very cool story.

The two of you are not only partners in life but also in business. Tell us about your business name and how that started.
The name of our business is Flex N Shake Smoothies, we started the business last year just before the Olympia! We had the opportunity to lease out a space in our gym and we went from there!

Is it tough running a business while dieting and what’s the key to keeping it going?
It is not tough to run a business whilst dieting but it can get hectic at times. The key to keep it going is to have trust worthy employees. I have the best employees ever. I have taught them exactly how I want our business ran and it gets done!!

What made you decide to compete in the same show as FLEX?
This was a last minute decision. I always diet along side with Flex, for moral support! I had decided earlier in the year that I wanted to compete this year but in October. So I hired a trainer and and started my prep. Well, about 3 weeks ago I was taking progression pictures to send them off to get a new plan from my trainer and Flex suggested then that I go ahead and compete now. So I threw this idea to my trainer and he gave the thumbs up!!

Flex isn’t the only one with abs in the Lewis household.

How has the prep been while dieting together?
Like I said earlier, I Have always dieted with Flex for support and to work the booth at the shows with him…so its easy really

Who does the cooking?
I DO ALL THE cooking!!! I love to cook!

What’s the most challenging thing about being married to a pro bodybuilder?
The most challenging thing is making sure he has everything ready and packed before he travels for an event. Especially because he is from the United Kingdom, we travel a lot over seas and I have to make sure I have all the right traveling documents organized, food cooked and prepared, and remember to pack the universal adapters for our electrical appliances

What do the two of you do when not eating chicken, fish or doing cardio?
We enjoy married life! We enjoy going out to eat at a nice restaurant, going to go see a movie and/or just chill out at home with the dog!!

What advice do you have to women who are considering competing but unsure about it?
Read all you can about nutrition and training. I believe  knowledge is key with that said I’m blessed to have a husband who is very knowledgeable in nutrition and the training side of things but when we decided to do this years Atlantic city Show I hired a trainer, Mike Davies (www.mikedaviesfitness.com) who has been fantastic. By doing so it alleviates unnecessary relationship stress especially since Flex and I are both doing the show.

Next try to attend as many shows as possible and look online (hardbody.com) so you can see what the judges are looking for. Plus you can pick up tips for hair and make-up, suit colors and styles, and generally the whole competition criteria.

If my husband is dieting for a show, personally I would “sympathy diet” with him. We diet very well together plus in my eyes if you have a supportive spouse that eats similar to you or lives a healthy lifestyle it makes the dieting a whole lot easier on both ends!

Ladies, try to get your other half involved when you decide to compete, it will make the whole experience much more enjoyable!

What’s on the menu for after the show?
Mmmmm lets see my husband and I love the Cheesecake Factory…so Probably the Baja chicken Tacos and the Chris’s outrageous chocolate cake!!

Any aspirations on becoming an IFBB pro like hubby?
I would love to be an IFBB Bikini Pro…my next show will be the Nationals in November.

Any other new ventures the two of you are embarking on?
We will be opening a gym in January 2010! The name is Olympus Athletic Club and the Flex N Shake will also be inside the new gym!

Anyone you want to thank?
I want to thank my husband and family for all their prayers and support. I also want to thank hardbody for this interview…I love sharing my story and hope to inspire other woman to push hard for what they aspire to do in life.

Thanks for sharing more about yourself Shina and best of luck to both of you this weekend!

I  met Tiffany Michelle Upshaw last month at the Europa Super Show and she was memorable. Chat with her for a couple minutes and you’ll know why. Mr. Optimum Nutrition Man, Bob Corbett introduced me to her as she was there working their (ON/ABB) expo booth. Tiffany has a fresh face with a great physique but it is her out-going, sassy personality that made her stand out. Looks will only take you so far in the fitness industry and Tiffany is the perfect example that if you have a personality to compliment the looks, people take notice. Ms. Upshaw calls Florida home and recently made her way onto the NPC stage for the first time. I caught up with her to find out how she did and what’s next.

Occupation:
Student, Soon to Be Realtor… AGAIN! ON/ABB Athlete

Realtor “again” Why again and why now with the economy for real estate in the crapper?
I became licensed when I was 19 so my age was a downfall for me. I had clients that would ask about my age, etc and I always felt like, “What does that matter? I can do what a 47yr old Realtor can!” The economy was also a downfall as well. I am choosing to do real estate again because I am older and the partner I will have is one of THE top realtors in Luxury Real Estate in Naples, FL and I want to soak up any and all knowledge from him, Patrick Dearborn of John R. Wood Realtors.

How did you get into the industry and become an ON/ABB Athlete?
Actually, on MySpace!! Neat, huh? Crazy, I thought it was spam or something and then when I actually got emailed a contract I was like …WOW, this is really really real!

Bob shared a similar story saying he accepted your “friend request” and checked out your profile and photos. He liked your look at thought you had a chance to be something special in the world of fitness, so he took a chance and signed you up. He went on to share, “Everyone at the office liked her potential too.” You’re doing something right because he said, “She’s worked very hard representing our company with class and determination and we’re very proud of her win at the show!”

Tiffany and Jessica at the ON/ABB booth.

Number of NPC shows:
1/1 !!! Did 1 show & WON 1 SHOW!

Congrats. What was the show and what did you win?
2009 Royal Palm Classic: Bodybuilding, Figure & Bikini Championships – 1st Place, Bikini Short Class

What made you decide to compete?
I became endorsed by Optimum Nutrition & American Bodybuilding last October and wanted to live up to my endorsement but then also attain a goal in a different area other than beauty pageants and modeling.

You mentioned beauty pageants and modeling. Have you done either and what do you say to people who think bikini is nothing more than a fit pageant?
I’ve done beauty pageants for the past 17 years; since I was literally before the age of 1 and I won my first one! Bikini is sexy, sassy but yet STILL should remain classy. It is a contest of the fittest, sexiest, most appealing and of course beautiful.

When you put it that way, bikini is right up your alley. Any tips for women considering competing but unsure about it?
GO FOR IT! It is a great way to build self-confidence, get into beach ready shape and you have the ability to turn Pro!

What’s next for ya?
NPC National Bodybuilding and Figure Championships – Fort Lauderdale, Florida – November 20-21, 2009

Tiffany has the look.

What’s the weirdest/funniest thing you’ve seen while working an expo booth?
Hmm…have YET to see something crazy – maybe at the Mr. Olympia this year in Vegas!?

Um Ya. There’s pretty good odds on that happening. Not as good as the Arnold but still up there.

Goals for the future in the fitness industry?
I would love to earn my Pro Card in Bikini and continue my amazing endorsement with ON/ABB!

What’s your favorite Optiumum Supplement?
Chocolate Coconut 100% Whey Protein because it tastes amazing blended with a banana and peanut butter or even just by itself.

Stop by the Optimum booth at this year’s Olympia and meet Tiffany. You can read more about her and see more photos of her on her bodyspace profile. Congratulations Tiffany and best of luck in the years ahead.

Erin checks in one more time before the finals to share her thoughts from how things went this morning. This is a great look at what happens before, during and after prejudging. She shares what she was thinking and a few details most never know about… until now.

AUGUST 29, 2009 – Showtime
So, the internet is back on. Thanks goodness, my hands were getting tired typing on the micro-keyboard!

I was very nervous for my one piece. I have been trying to fix my back pose and don’t know if I got it right on stage. The call-outs went well and I think I’m in the top five!!! We all go backstage for the two piece. I feel so much more comfortable in my two piece and I’m starting to settle in. I get word that my make up looks dark and muddy on stage and I scramble to figure out how to fix it. I grab a wet wipe and take off all of the foundation and put it back on…still splotchy!! The girl there doing make up is awesome and even she can’t figure out what the heck I’ve done.  She tries to powder my face and it gets muddier. OMG!!!! (Here comes the part where simple issues become bigger problems when you’re depleted). I just threw more bronzer on top and tried to focus on getting ready for the two piece round.

We’re all lined up and I’m excited again. All of the girls look so gorgeous and some of us giggle about trading abs, shoulders, etc. Before walking out, I take a deep breath and remind myself to walk slowly, turn slowly, and hold my poses…”it’s not a race..”

I got first call out! We turn and turn, and my left leg starts to fall asleep as we hold our poses on the side of the stage. I think, “what if my leg gives out when I start to walk.”  Thankfully, it doesn’t I take a quick sneak peak at the other girlsand wonder what they’re thinking as they stand, smiling too.

Well, pre-judging is over, and I’m starving! Even though we’ve been here for a few hours, it went by so quickly. We all go backstage to pack up and head out to get a little rest until the night show. I meet up with my sister and we’re on the way to H-E-B for some sushi and caffeine!!!!

Talk to you soon!!

This gives you an idea of what it’s like to be a top contender at an IFBB figure show. Erin was excited to get some food in her tummy and shared her excitement in the pizza aisle of the grocery store.

Erin Stern gets-a-jump’n in the pizza section.

The inaugural NPC Bikini contest caused some controversy in Columbus earlier this year when Kristal Marshall took home second place. Many felt Kristal (myself included) should have won the short class and battled for the overall title. That’s all water under the bridge now. I caught up with the former WWE diva and Price is Right girl to see what she’s been up to and what we can expect to see in Las Vegas. Kristal will be competing at the NPC USA contest this weekend and from my vantage point has all the makings to be a top contender.

Kristal Marshall earlier this year.

What will we see different from the Arnold stage?
Well, when I competed at the Arnold, inn March, it was the first NPC Bikini contest, so nobody really knew what to expect, or what the judges were looking for. I felt like I went into it a bit blind.  I sat back and let a few contests go by so that I could see which bodies were awarded and to train accordingly. I am so excited for the USAs! I feel no stress and have no expectations. This time is different in so many ways for me: I have my entire family coming to support, I got an awesome off the rack suit, My body is toned, strong and feminine… I feel so sexy.

Where did you get your suit?
I actually bought my suit at Victoria’s secret for $13! Then I took it to Christine Marsh and had her pucker the booty.

How’s baby Myles Doing?
My son is awesome! He keeps us on our toes. He just turned one and he is non-stop!! He’s my little good luck charm. He was there when I won Bikini America and hopefully he can give mommy some luck at USAs.

You’ve been keeping busy – what are some of the things you’ve been doing besides preparing for this competition?
Wow…busy is an understatement. I have been running our online supplement site Lashleynutrition.com, Training (of course), Starting Cosmetology school, renovating a rental home, being mommy and working on our new baby American Top Team Altitude.  ATT is a high level MMA Professional fight gym which has trained some of the best MMA fighters around: Thiago Alves, Thiago Silva, Jeff Monson, Mike Brown, JZ, and of course the undefeated Bobby Lashley who happens to be my favorite .  Bobby came up with the idea to open up an ATT in Denver to take advantage of the high altitude…hence ATT Altitude. We are very proud to say that the gym will be up and running early fall of 2009. So come check it out if you are in the Denver Area.

Kristal Marshall & Bobby Lashley in studio.

Favorite supplements?
The cool thing about owning our own supplement store is that I can try all the new fun stuff. I really love optimum nutrition’s casein protein, mixed with oats pre-bedtime. I am a big fan of Forever Fit’s whey isolate in cran-razz (yum). Most recently I have feel in love with Recovery X’s Liquid MD. It’s a blue green algae solution, which helps with everything from arthritis to sore muscles.

What advice do you have for mommas out there who are struggling to stay fit much less compete?
With kids it is really tough and you are definitely going to have to make some lifestyle changes. Prioritize: Kids first, your health next. Working out is only 10% of the solution; diet and hydration are the other 90%. As mother we want to put the best foods possible into our kiddos’ tummies right? So put it into yours too! Make little changes to start like: Eat when you first wake up (this spikes your metabolism) and will give you energy. You want to break-the-fast so the speak, Switch to whole grains (pastas, breads, cereals), Switch from traditional salt to ancient volcanic salt (a natural brown organic unbleached salt), Cut out most white colored foods (think about it there are not a lot of natural things that organically are white), sleep when baby sleeps  (I had to get that in there).  Don’t be so hard on yourself; your baby has to crawl before he walks, so approach your fitness goals the same way. Most importantly stay hydrated.

Thanks Kristal and Good luck in Vegas!

The one time Ms. Figure Olympia, Jenny Lynn is looking to get back on top after slipping to fourth at last year’s Olympia. Jenny was in attendance at the Teen Collegiate Master’s Nationals where she was dressed as her IRON SIRENS character. She swapped outfits and dawned the posing to suit. Here’s a sneak peak at what she looks like two weeks out from her return to the stage.

Jenny Lynn at the IRON SIRENS booth.

Jenny Lynn two weeks out.

Jenny is already qualified to compete at this year’s Ms. Figure Olympia where she looks to regain her title. In my opinion, she looks better in this photo – two weeks out, then she did at last year’s Olympia. We’ll have to wait and see how she fairs in a couple weeks but it looks like she’s back on track. Thanks to J.M. Manion for providing the above images.

The first annual NPC Jen Hendershott’s All Women’s Weekend ended Saturday evening in downtown Charleston, SC and after the event I caught up with the promoter. Check out what Jen had to say about promoting her first show, future plans and what is next. Will she be competing in the Olympia? What’s up with the champ?

Vote for Jen’s supplement line in the bodybuilding.com supplement awards.Check photos from the event available for purchase here.

Here’s something you rarely see in competition.

Elissa Schlichter won the Masters 45+ Figure and qualified for IFBB Pro status. The Masters 35 overall comparisons had yet to take place. Elissa was eligible to compete in the Masters 35 Overall Figure, by winning the Masters 35 Figure C Class. Elissa showed what true class is all about, since she had already qualified she voluntarily took herself out of the Masters 35 Overall contest which gave someone else the chance to earn their pro card. There was no gaurantee that she would have won the second overall title but none-the-less a classy move on her part.

I caught up with the gorgeous Amanda Latona at the UFC FAN EXPO. She was turning heads left and right at the BSN booth during UFC 100. Hear her talk about her plans to compete at the NPC USA contest in the bikini division. She goes on to share how she trains on her own, her three record deals and how fitness is her passion. Amanda’s a ham in front of the camera and one of those women who makes you do a double take when you see her in person.

Amanda was two weeks out from the NPC USAs in this interview. Amanda was one of the Round Two winners in the FLEX Bikini Model Search contest. She gives a shout out to HARDBODY at the end. Good luck Amanda!

Amanda posing for a fan at the UFC FAN EXPO.