Follow Kelly as she makes her WBFF DIVA BIKINI Debut!

Time to get UNcomfortable....

" Life begins at the end of your comfort zone." Neale Donald Walsch

This is the year for me to do things “out of my comfort level” 

You see, I was always an athlete growing up even after graduating from school.  I played on many volleyball, softball and soccer recreational teams, just to keep me in that competitive mindset.  My weight or being in shape was never an issue.  Fast forward to careers, marriage, and kids... I think women tend to care for others more than they take care of themselves.  I personally, put myself on the backburner and didn’t focus so much on doing what’s right for me, in reference to my health. 

I was training for my first WBFF competition about 5 years ago until my son suffered from a TBI.  In that moment my world stopped because I had to attend to all his medical and educational needs.  I’m happy to report he’s doing a lot better now and felt it was time to push myself, out of my comfort level and try to start training for a fitness competition.  I attended the “Fitness Atlantic” show last year and knew at that time, I wanted to pursue this dream of mine.. to get up on stage.  The glitz and glamour and general comradery of all the competitors was contagious.  I thought what a perfect way to showcase all your hard work in the end.  “The Elite Heat Girls” stood out in that show and knew I needed to make contact with their coach to be a part of that energy.  I had made contact through “Bricks” and the rest was history. 

Early on in my training, I developed a knee injury.  I had a partial tear to my meniscus but pushed through that injury in order to meet my fitness goals.  The results took me a litle longer because a lot of my fitness workouts had to be modified, but that never stopped me.    I trained with purpose and conviction.  I had a long-term goal in mind and nothing was going to stop me.  Once I started to really see my body transform and “finally” see that scale move downwards, it gave me the extra motivation to continue when my family's schedule could have gotten in the way, like in years past.  I keep going and keep seeing more and more results and started to really feel great; probably the best I’ve felt in a while.    

It’s not being selfish, taking time for yourself.  I think some people have that wrong.  It’s important especially the older we get to really take care of your health and make sure it’s aligned properly.  Another thing I found I did during this prep was to keep my mind right.  I practiced mediation on a daily basis and found this really grounded me and gave me peace during times I felt things could have spiraled in another direction.  Prepping for a show in your late 40’s was a challenge to say the least.  I fit in workouts before and after work and even in between my son’s sports practice.  I look back at it now and wonder “how the heck” did I actually keep up with that schedule, as long as it did. 

I have found if you really want something bad enough, nothing will stop you.  I’ve started to take back my health and pushed it to another level and can’t wait to see what else is in store, because this is just the beginning.  I’ve been told many times during this year’s prep that I have inspired certain people to start working out again while, others have followed my journey just to support me which I have greatly appreciated.  Their words of encouragement and support have given me the drive especially, during those 430am workout wake up calls. 

I wanted to acknowledge the women on my team.  They are like-minded career-focused women, that I have the privilege to say, are my friends now.  It has been nice to be able to go through this prep and be able to vent to someone that will understand what we are going through because, let’s face it some people didn’t get why we were doing this show to begin with.  I want to thank each and every one of you and the support and laughs we have shared.  Remember, ladies we got this and always will!!! 

Finally, I wanted to acknowledge my kids.  They have seen me go through this prep and cheered me along every step of the way.   I’m proud of myself because of example I have given them of what hard work really looks like.  I have always shared that kind of advice with them in the past, but they have never seen from the beginning to end a true scenario of that playing out for them.  They know now that they can accomplish anything they put their mind to, as long as they have drive, motivation and conviction.

Wish me luck as I step on stage for the first time next weekend!  Anything is possible as long as you manifest it, it will happen….

Follow Michelle as she makes her WBFF DIVA BIKINI debut!!

More Than a Conqueror

I’d been working out with my amazing coach Malenna on different programs for about 3 years, but was never consistent in my journey. I would be good for 2-3 months, then somehow backslide into my old habits of not taking care of my body.  Plain and simple,  I was putting bad foods into my body.  One of my fellow workout partners Kim Ashley challenged me to do a show. At the time I felt I wasn’t ready.  I had a million of excuses why I thought I wasn’t ready:  it was too much of a commitment, I needed to be disciplined, how would I ever give up my Sunday brunches, happy hours during the week, and my love of wine and cheese?  As time went on, I realized that all of the hard work I put in over the years from working with Malenna went to waste. I realized I slowly put all the weight , plus more that I already lost,  back on.  At my breaking point, I finally got sick and tired of feeling sick and tired. I decided it was time to invest in me and take care of me.  I’ve definitely learned a lot about myself through this process.  

Yes, this prep has been super challenging, and there are some days I want to give up, but somehow I am able to overcome.  Seeing the changes in my body has been great, but more importantly is how amazing I feel.  The lessons I’ve learned along the way are invaluable, they  have translated into my professional life, my personal relationships, and how I view the world.  I’ve learned that we all are much stronger than we give ourselves credit for, and we should never just settle.  I’ve met a lot of beautiful ladies on this journey who will be friends for life. I hope my story inspires you to believe you are worth investing in YOU! It’s all about balance. Trust me if I can do this, so can you. This is a lifestyle!   

Follow Nicole on her WBFF DIVA FIT MODEL Journey at Fitness Atlantic!

Second Time Around....

I've always loved fitness and staying active.  Sports teams, fitness classes, at home workouts - I've done it all.  I'm an eternal student and love the opportunity to learn a new skill, master it and continually improve.

About 5 years ago friend of mine started prepping for a fitness competition and encourage me to try.  I initially refused, as I didn't think it was for me.  She looked incredible!  After the show, she kept telling me the prep changed her life and made her adopt a happier, healthier lifestyle. Seeing her planted a seed and made me consider it, but I wasn't quite ready.  It wasn't until my daughter went off to college and I was an empty-nester did I really start thinking about it.  At the time, I was going through a lot of changes - a new job, an end of a relationship and health issues that turned into a 30 pound weight gain.  I wasn't happy with how I looked or felt, and didn't want to go into my 40s feeling miserable,overweight and overwhelmed.  I had taken a class with Malenna several years prior and stayed on her email list, so I signed up for her 16 week weight loss program in January 2018, which turned into prep for my first show (July 2018).  I loved the results of the 16 week program, and I wanted to push even harder, and see what I was capable of.  I had no idea what to expect, but I was ready to work and my last excuse was away at college :).

Prep was no joke.  Lots of hard work, commitment and HUGE changes.  The funny thing is, I liked it.  The discipline and regiment provided order and stability, which anchored and balanced me.  It was nice fitting back into my clothes and walking on the beach in a bikini and not scramble to put on a shirt or cover up.  It also had an unexpected side effect of making me more assertive and focused.  I was saying no, standing up for myself and removing toxic people and things from my space without apology or second guessing.  I had a limited window of time and I didn't want to waste it on things or people that did not serve me or make my life better.  When I stepped onstage in July, I felt and looked like a warrior.  

So why a second show?  I had to step back and really think about it.  Did I really want to put myself through that a second time in less than year?  At first I thought it was just post show blues, but it was more than that.  I've heard retired athletes talk about walking away from the game and "leaving it all out there".  As hard as I worked for the July show, I didn't believe I left it all on stage.  I still had more in me; it was a nagging feeling that I couldn't shake.  I just knew I didn't want to live with regret or what-ifs.  I'd rather say 'I'm glad I did' instead of 'I wish I did'.

I'm now a few days away from Fitness Atlantic and I can't wait.  This prep was much different than the first one; but then again, so I am I.  I feel stronger, more confident and READY.  I can't wait to leave it all on stage April 13th.

Follow Roz as she makes her WBFF TRANSFORMATION debut!!

I Want to Live..Giving up is not an Option.

My name is Rosalind E.Tillery. I was born in U.S. Naval Hospital in Queens NY. I was raised in Brooklyn, NY and within Petersburg, VA.   
I am one of 4 siblings the only girl with 3 brothers. Both of my parents are deceased.   My mother died in my arms and was my true inspiration. 

In 2014,  I was approached by a co-worker and friend about  Phoenyxfitness.  This is where I met my coach and trainer, Malenna. My good friend noticed my disposition after the loss of my mother and got me off the couch.  I began working out 2x’s a week with PhoenyxFitness and taking Zumba classes. During the winter I kept getting sick & having knee issues especially going up the train station stairs. I stopped working out. I frequently stayed in contact with Malenna. 
I gained a lot of weight because I wasn't eating right, or taking care of myself. My conditions persisted and my blood pressure escalated.   

On 1/2/2015 I retired after 40 yrs of service  with the  Federal Government.  I finally decided to get complete control over my life.  I joined Y-Fit at the YMCA , Coach by Mr. D.A. & Zero Hour X trainer Mr. E.T working out 6-7 days a week. I realized I needed more of a physical challenge. 


One day while watching television I saw Ernestine Shepherd, a professional bodybuilder that is 83 years old.  She became my inspiration. 

Late 2017, I attended a PhoenyxFitness meeting. The discussion was about competing in the WBFF Fitness Show.  The doubt immediately set in. I am too old. I cannot compete against the younger ladies. What about the elasticity of my skin. Will I be able to transform. 

No matter the circumstances or obstacles I may have or face in my everyday living,  I must learn and understand what it means to attack and focus.   It  begins with a healthy mind and healthy body. 
I also realized I want to live and age gracefully. 

I decided to take the challenge. I was inspired to change my fitness profile and life which consisting of intense weight training, intense cardio, nutrition and food  preparation. I registered for The WBFF Fitness show being held on Saturday, 4/13/19 Transformation Division at the Mohegan Sun with Fitness Atlantic.  

This is the 2nd best decision I made in my life. The first one was giving birth to  a now adult young man who also helped train me along this journey.

The grind is real. I began training diligently.   It took me a while to master the food prep and discipline. During my process I have to pray and tell myself you are stronger than you think. Have I cried? Yes. Have I vented Yes? Have I ever wanted to throw in the towel?  Yes. 
I will admit there’s nothing like having a support system. A coach, a trainer, a mentor, your team members etc . I appreciate the listening ear and positive advice.  

Presently,  I am 95% mindful of  what I put into my body. Why I am not 100% is because I am not perfect. 

Since 1/2018 to the present I have lost 26lbs. I have lost inches.  I feel better inside and out.  I still have a long way to go such as toning. I have a life style change for the better. I hope and pray that my bio gives whoever reads it courage. 

Take the challenge. Take charge of your life.  Love yourself, Exercise, Develop positive thinking, Focus on your goals, Eliminate non essentials, seek support & nutrition. 

My motto: “I want to live”  I told my doctors I only want to see you for my annual exams.   By the way, I thank God Blood pressure is now stable under medication, and knees issues - I can climb stairs in train station, and use Stair-master & Treadmill. 

Finally, I am dedicated, and disciplined to embrace a new fitness life style. 
Overall goals to enhance my appearance and strive to be prepared for potential opportunities in T.V. Movies, and Multimedia, and  Fashion Style Athletic Apparels. 
Giving up is not an option - Water is now my best friend😂😂😂😂😂

Follow Gabrielle as she makes her WBFF TRANSFORMATION Debut

Why did I decide to compete:

There are so many reasons and it has been such a long Journey but here it goes.... 

 

As a person who has always been overweight and so insecure about it, this seemed like a longshot. Even when my body started to change after educating myself on food/nutrition and worked very hard towards competing, I still didn't quite believe I could do it. One day on my way to a posing class, I sneezed and hit the ground crying in excruciating pain on the train. Shortly there-after I was diagnosed with Chiari-malformation and told I needed to have brain surgery to correct a fluid mass that had built up in my spine because of it. I was told that if I didn't get the procedure immediately I could become paralyzed.  The doctors were amazed that I was still standing. Only after surgery did I learn that the mass was much worse and life-threatening. I was told that I could not train as much as I wanted and  I couldn't lift more than 30lbs. That's when I decided, that competing wouldn't just be a dream, but a reality and I was going to push with all my might to make this happen despite MAJOR concerns from my doctors but ESPECIALLY my family. 

After surgery, my Mom, Grandma, and Partner not only helped me through recovery but showed me the meaning of unconditional love. They cared for me day in and day out. To this day I get emotional thinking about how much their love lifted me. Recovery was so hard, and depression was always looming over me. There's no cure for my condition, so all that there is left to do is manage the frequent and painful symptoms the best I can.  That hurt me because I hated feeling "limited".  I refused to be limited. One night, I  just prayed for Grace for God to just stick with me while I continued, and I promised I would. 

My why... 

To spread awareness and give hope to people with Chiari Malformation and other invisible illnesses that affect so many on the daily. To prove to myself that I am capable, as I have honestly never completed or worked so hard for ANYTHING in my life. But I mostly want to show my family that all their love and support brought me here. Brought me through depression/recovery, ignited a spark, and revealed a strength (and a woman) I never knew existed. This is for them. To make them proud and show them through love, grace and FAMILY anything is possible.

What I love most about fitness is that you don't compete with anyone else but yourself. You can always be better than you were yesterday. It teaches you patience and consistency and once you start seeing results, you get addicted. You want to get stronger, lift heavier, run faster, jump higher...or whatever your goal might be. Fitness is a way of life. You don’t always feel motivated, but once you push yourself and finish the work out you didn’t feel like doing, you feel accomplished and proud of yourself.

I have been active my whole life, but as I think back, I always did individual sports like dancing or snowboarding. I left my home country of the Czech Republic about 6 years ago, and didn’t really know which way my career would go. I feel like I tried everything. Then I found a book I purchased years ago when I was playing with the ideaof becoming a fitness trainer. I finally studied the book, passed the test and became certified. I quit my job and became a trainer for a local gym. When I look back, I see the huge growth I had been through as a trainer. I love my job. I love being independent and being my own boss. I love leading by example, educating my clients on a healthier lifestyle and helping them reach their goals. I used to work for David Barton Gym on the upper east side. After they shut their doors down, I started to work independently. I have a beautiful relationship with all of my clients and I love to hear their positive feedback and be part of the reason they feel healthier and stronger.

I decided to compete a couple years ago but felt it was not the right time, until January of this year. I knew the time was right and it’s either now or never. I jumped on and through some ups and downs I have loved the journey over all. It’s not easy but it is not impossible. I wanted to move higher as a trainer, get more experience, learn new stuff and also see, where I can take my body. So many times I felt like I am working against nature, gravity and common sense (lol) but it was worth it and I have learned so much on a physical and mental level. I decided to do my first show in Los Angeles as I felt like I can stay more motivated and I have been looking for any reason to go to LA to hug the palm trees! :) My big day is Saturday, April 7th!

Wish me luck! :)

Follow Massiel as she makes her WBFF Diva Fit Model Debut!

Let me begin at the top. I stumbled into my current career unintentionally. Being a personal trainer was never in my "what do you want to be when you grow up?" List. I started pursuing fitness because I was overly stressed. When I realized I needed to make a change I was 24 years old. At such a young age I was completely out of shape, couldn't fit into my clothes and it all happened suddenly. It's like I was in my body but felt like it wasn't my body. I was so unhappy with my bachelors in business, stressed at my job as an administrator and with so many changes happening in my life during that year I began suffering from anxiety. The weight room became my therapy. My dedication began producing the physical results that I wanted and before I knew it I was guiding my friends into getting fit, got my certification and fast forward, I am about to make my debut as a Fitness Diva with the WBFF.
When I decided that I wanted to be a trainer, It didn't cross my mind to compete I just had the heart to help people learn to be healthy and fit and to do it because they loved their bodies, not because they hated them.My cousin Suehade, who is a PRO for the same federation was who inspired me and believed in me enough for me to muster the courage and take on this challenge.

The reason why I decided to compete is because after working out and after my experience in the gym for 3 years now, I wanted a new challenge. Sometimes personal trainers have this idea that they can figure it all out on their own and contrary to that I wanted to learn something new and to be guided professionally with accountability. I wanted to undergo this process for beyond physical reasons. Only people who have suffered from anxiety understand the intensity of the feeling and know that it takes a LOT of mental strength to be able to control and overcome an anxiety attack. I got into fitness not only to build my body but also to build my mind and so that's why I felt it was the right time for me to undergo the process of preparing for a competition. I understood that if I wanted to grow as a person I needed to continuously learn and to continuously be challenged and I am so satisfied with this prep because that is exactly what it has done for me!

I have been able to discover a strength in me both mentally and physically that I never thought I had within. No other process would have been able to teach me what I have learned about myself like this one.
This has been the most rigorous, yet most rewarding period of time in my life. I have not stepped on stage yet but I am content because no matter what happens I know I am stronger,  and I am better than when I first began. I have learned to channel a new level of focus towards a goal regardless of my circumstance and all the havoc going on in my surrounding. My faith, passion and consistency has reached new levels and although these things are intangible, they are the greatest possessions!

Follow Ashley as she makes her WBFF Debut

From Foodie to Fitness....

I started on this competition journey because I was tired of always telling myself I can’t do something because of this and that. I was tired of all the excuses I came up with. Always doubting myself, thinking negatively, having fears about whatever popped up in my crazy head. What introduced me to do one was my sister's competition. Tiffany competed last year at the WBFF Fitness Atlantic show. When I watched her go through this grueling process and saw the final result, I was so inspired. I couldn’t believe how she and all these girls on stage went through this and actually survived! That night my sister ended up winning first place in her division and received her pro card. I was so proud of her because I witnessed all she had to endure and how much she worked at it. I was truly moved by her hard work and how it all paid off in the end!

But even after I saw my sister compete I still wasn’t really sold. I knew what to expect because I saw her go through it. I saw all the foods she couldn’t have at the end of it and how much time she had to put in at the gym.  I thought I could never do this because I love food way too much. Anyone that knows me knows my love for food! But then something changed and I wanted something more. I was tired of the excuses I gave myself. I wanted to challenge myself in every way possible and I knew competing would do that. My sister was the first one to tell me I could do this. I was shocked at how confident in me she was. I talked with her about it and told her my worries mainly about the food I know I wouldn't be able to have. But then she said, it's not like you won't ever have the foods you love ever again. And I realized she was right. It would only be for a period of time where I couldn't have what I wanted. Right then I knew I wanted to compete not only to see myself physically change but also to see my mentality change. I needed to do this to prove to myself that I could. To be able to shut up all the negative things I kept telling myself. From there, I went to an Elite Heat Comp prep workshop and learned everything I needed to know. I told Tiffany’s coach, Malenna I was ready to compete and the rest is history.

Doing this competition was never about me winning against someone else. It has always been about winning against myself.  When I get on stage, I don’t care about what the other competitors, judges, family, friends, coaches think of me. The only thing that matters that day is what I think of myself. That day is for me to realize how much hard work I put into this, waking up at 5:00 AM to do fasted cardio knowing I am not a morning person, lifting after work, spending hours in the kitchen making meals for the week, eating the same bland meals every day, not being able to eat foods that I enjoy, all the social events I couldn’t attend, staying in the gym for 3-4 hours to get all my workouts in. It was about all the challenges I dealt with on a day to day basis that tested my discipline and dedication with how badly I wanted to do this. I wanted more than anything to be better than the person I was before.

This journey has not only made me a better person but it also gave me confidence about myself that I needed. Comp prep was everything I expected and more. It did exactly what I wanted it to do. It has challenged me in every way possible from the food to the workouts. I look at what I have accomplished and what I have learned about myself through this process and it truly amazes me. I learned that if I want something bad enough I will do anything to get it. I’ve learned that I am stronger than I ever gave myself credit for. I am disciplined, have the drive and focus to accomplish whatever I want in life. It has made me a more confident person and believer in myself. I couldn’t be prouder of the person I am becoming!

The one thing that will always stay with me is what I have been telling myself from the beginning of this journey is I am my only competition when I am on stage and even more so when I am off. Nothing can stop me from what I want to accomplish but me! So, in my eyes, I am already a winner no matter the outcome because I did everything I said I couldn’t do and more. That to me is priceless and worth more than first place. I am so happy and grateful I decided to do this and can’t wait to make my debut on stage!! 

WBFF Fit Model and Bikini Competitor Jasmine

Normally, the write ups are submitted from the athlete's perspective. Since this athlete posted from a previous show, we are doing something different and presenting from the coach's angle.

"Oh yes, the past can hurt. But you can either run from it, or learn from it.' -- The Lion King

COACH's CORNER

When I was choosing pictures for this write up, the above picture was EVERYTHING, but let me start from the beginning. 

Jas joined the team 2 years ago, almost exactly. At 22, she was the youngest on our team and if her energy and spunky attitude didn't tell you that, the fact that she hails at a towering 5 feet tall didn't help.  Working with her initially was a different challenge. Most of the ladies were older, already working professionals, some married so priorities SLIGHTLY different than a young, fresh out of college sorority girl. We had to put things like parties, alcohol and junk food on the back burner. Jas has always had an amazing support system so with the help of her mother (food preparer), father (motivator) and sister (voice of reason) she pulled things together and in the fall of the same year, competed in her first show, WBFF Rhode Island. Placing top 5 in her first, show, she did really well coming out of the blocks.

Second show quickly approached the following summer, WBFF NY 2015. She graced the stage with 6 other ladies from the team and took a stab at the Fit Model category.  She didn't have a placement in this show, and I knew she was disappointed, but she was determined to hit the stage again. She had her sister's wedding to prepare for later that year, and financially, as well as mentally wanted to be in the right mindset so decided to wait until at least spring of 2016. At the end of 2015, we revisited the conversation and moved forward with a fresh mindset but also an accountability change. How the stage isn't owned by your competition, but by you. How you need to bring your BEST no matter who shows up because THAT is the only thing within your control. How WINNING is about your mentality, and perception. Not the judgement of 5-7 strangers sitting at a long table in front of you.

 

FAST forward to the first picture. The GIRL I met 2 years ago has grown to the WOMAN pictured above. Focused, dedicated, hard working, determined, relentless,..unbroken. It's one thing to try something. You don't always win, and you don't always get what you want. The winners get up, and try again and again, knowing that the outcome isn't as important as getting better. 

Jasmine has continued to bring a better package each time to the stage...July 30th is no exception. Check out her updates on IG @jleeabreu and visit www.wbffshows.com for ticket info if you are in the area!!

Follow Theresa as she makes her WBFF Diva Bikini Debut!

Family, the tie that binds...

34.  4.  11.  5. My age.  The age of my youngest daughter.  The age of my oldest daughter.  How many years I have been married to my husband. 

176.  The number of days it took me to transform my body.  

2112.  The number of excuses I had to  defy in my head because I was tired, sick, didn’t feel good or was just out right sick of competition prep and wanted to stop.  

Countless.  How many people doubted me or told me that I was attempting to do wasn’t possible or reasonable.

   

For every minute missed with my kids and husband, for anyone who doubted or disagreed that I could make it, for every tear shed and ounce of frustration spent, for every day physically exhausted and hungry for tasty food….these are the reasons why I refused to quit – I was hell bent on defying the odds.  I originally started competition prep for vain reasons….I just wanted to see my abs.  I never had abs of steel but spent countless hours seeing  people with them and thought it would be great to have them (I still laugh when I say that about abs like you can purchase them from a local store).  About three months into competition prep, I had reached my goal, my stomach was flat and my body was toned – I was tired and missed “regular” food – why keep going?  I had to reassess my purpose for attempting to complete this endeavor and I realized there was a deeper purpose than myself.   Any active mom can tell you that your kids mirror your thoughts, actions and behaviors.  My daughters watch everything I do, from the way I resolve conflict to the way I process daily life and speak to other people – if I had quit then, I realized I would only be teaching my daughters that it was okay to “quit when things get hard”, or when you “don’t feel like” continuing even though you committed or “do what was easiest”…and I found myself being hypocritical and violating my own principles.   

Everything my husband and I have tried to teach our girls would be completely undermined by me stopping.   One of the hardest things I’ve ever done is continued something so physically, mentally, emotionally and physically grueling out of principle and prayer (those were the only things left to keep me going).  Both of which have no immediate results….they are both long term investments that will only show returns with prudence, care and patience (all of which I am not the best at).

I am officially three days out from walking across the stage in my first WBFF show and each day is still grueling as the one before but I am at peace, content and full.  Full of gratitude.  Full of grace and full of love.  I do not care if I do not place – I never started this journey for that.  I do not care about the competitive spirits that I will encounter.  I do not care about my body compared to others.  The ONLY thing I care about is making my daughters and my husband proud - for them to see me walk across the stage knowing, they are my reasons for finishing and without them, I would not have finished.  I learned in six months what some people take a lifetime to learn….without LOVE, you will never have purpose or be fulfilled. 

WHO I AM

I am originally from Oakland, California.   I completed my undergraduate work at U.C. Berkeley and my graduate school work at N.Y.U.  I lived in a third world developing country for six months and traveled to over 11 different countries.  I stayed in New York after graduate school and met my husband the same year.   I currently work in the affordable housing sector and have a background in finance and analytics.  I am the youngest of eight kids to immigrant parents and it has definitely shaped my strong and defiant personality.  I love hosting, cooking, baking and all that Martha Stewart, Ina Garten, HGTV stuff! =) As you can tell, my kids and husband are my daily dose of happiness and the small things like ice cream on the stoop with them on a warm summer night is everything to me.

Next Level Fitness

We have had the pleasure of preparing this young athlete for her first bikini fitness competition. Check out her story below and follow her at @cathareinegreer on Instagram as she takes the stage April 2nd in Woodbridge, NJ for the NPC John Kemper Classic.

My name is Catharine Greer and I am 22 years old, from Rye, NY.  While growing up I was always extremely involved in athletics-- I danced ballet, tap and toe, did gymnastics, and I played soccer and basketball.  In middle school I decided to give up all other sports and focus solely on basketball. After years of devoting my weekends to tournaments and countless hours every night for practice, I found myself falling out of love with the sport.  I didn’t find the commitment to the sport enjoyable anymore, but rather it was a chore.  Before entering high school I decided to switch my main sport from basketball to soccer.  While I continued playing both soccer and basketball throughout high school and was the captain of both teams, I went on to become a collegiate soccer player at Tufts University.  As a freshman I was the starting center defender on the women’s varsity soccer team.  After a very successful four years of playing soccer at Tufts, I knew that I wanted to maintain an active lifestyle once I graduated college.  Rather than continuing with soccer, I wanted to pick a sport that allowed me to solely focus on me- a sport in which my results would be directly proportional to my efforts.  That way, I could hold myself 100% accountable.  The perfect sport that fit the bill in my mind was bodybuilding.  


I had gained a lot of experience and developed a love for weight training during the soccer off-seasons at Tufts, where my team would lift with the trainers a few times a week in order to prepare for the next season.  My boyfriend’s passion for lifting and bodybuilding also definitely deepened my interest in the sport.  After graduation, I began lifting on my own almost every day and adopted a moderately healthy diet, so I thought.  While I was putting in hours of hard work, it was very difficult for me to see results.  While the thought of prepping hard for multiple months and walking on stage seemed extremely daunting, I took the leap of faith and contacted Malenna.  It truly was one of the best decisions that I have ever made.  Over the past few months I have learned so much about myself and the sport of bodybuilding.  While the sport is physically taxing, it is definitely just as mentally exhausting.  This sport requires sacrifice, dedication, and persistence; all of which practice mental strength and toughness.  Whether it be getting yourself out of bed at 5 am to do your cardio before work, or resisting all of the tempting foods that surround you on a day-to-day basis, your mental strength is challenged just as much as your physical strength.  There are days that I want to hit the snooze button, there are days that I want to eat that cookie or that slice of pizza, but I never let myself.  In this sport you only get out what you put in.  I put in hard work 110% of the time, because I want the results.  I have grown both physically and mentally over the past few months, and I am excited to see what the future holds for me in the world of bodybuilding.

A little bit more about myself outside of the fitness world, I graduated from Tufts University with a major in Biology.  I am currently working at two different animal hospitals as a veterinary assistant, and my future plan is to go to veterinary school!

For anyone who is considering competing, I would say figure out what truly appeals to you about the sport.  You need to do some soul searching and figure out what your end goal is.  If you want to compete for the glitz and the glam or for the trophy, you are not going to succeed.  Rather, if you want to compete to push yourself physically and mentally, to work towards a healthier you, or to gain confidence about yourself and feel happy in your own skin, then GO FOR IT!!!