How did you get started in fitness?
Growing up in rural Southern Oregon, I didn’t have much as a kid. I was home schooled most my childhood. By the age of 15, I had four jobs and started in public high school. I was on my own.
I was always athletic, getting involved in playing soccer, running track and surfing. Being active ended up taking a toll on my body. I ate really clean. Most meats my father hunted and vegetables my mother grew. Soon after graduation, I made my way to Southern California. I maintained eating the same, mostly vegetables and meats, but I didn’t realize the importance of carbs. I was extremely underweight and physically unhealthy, without knowing it.
I continued to surf and run 8-10 miles a day while I managed a small private personal training studio. I also worked at an all-organic restaurant, and managed a few other small jobs. I was running myself down.
About four years ago, I was diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease and Fibromyalgia. The doctor told me I needed to regain control of my health. I needed to eat more, gain weight, and take a handful of medication, which ultimately only made me feel worse. This is when I got into bodybuilding. Now, I no longer take medication and I feel better because of my diligence in becoming healthier. I have control over my symptoms due to Fibromyalgia and I have been able to keep Crohn’s in remission mainly through diet. I never imagined I could improve my quality of life so much.
How do you stay motivated in your career?
Knowing how much I’ve changed keeps me motivated. I’ve gone from “skinny fat” and fighting disease to building a body I never dreamed of having. Its an unfinished piece, but your body is your art- it’s never “done” changing. It’s crazy to look back.. I don’t want to go back to that state. Not only was I struggling with health but also, self confidence, lacking emotional strength etc.. it makes me believe I will continue to grow stronger not only in health but, internally as well.
What was your biggest challenge in your fitness journey?
Overcoming my first major Crohn’s flare up. I go through intense pain with my flare ups and it’s hard to even make it to the gym sometimes. Knowing I can push past my pain is was a big challenge to overcome when your so ready to just give up. Learning I had the strength to push past chronic pain was a huge break through. My pain has become less of a distraction during my workouts and the post workout endorphins are like my natural remedies.
What’s your favorite music to workout to?
For me it’s a mix of different things, It’s such a big variety! I grew up really sheltered and not listening to much music. So for me, I love all kinds of music and can find motivation in chill music to hard core music. It depends on what type of state of mind I’m in.
What’s your favorite cheat meal?
I’d have to say Ice Cream!! Although it’s not the best cheat option for my Crohn’s, I do enjoy it from time to time! Everything in moderation.
How does your typical week in the gym look like?
7 days a week I’m in the gym.
I usually lift 2 days, 1 day cardio, 3 days lift, then 1 day cardio. I still do cardio on the days I lift: Hour of cardio in the morning and an hour at night every day. I’ll hit legs & shoulders 2-3x a week and everything else in between. I have a very dominant back so I’m putting most my focus in the legs and delts.
Which female fit celebrity’s physique do you admire the most?
I really admire so many women’s physiques! To lists a few, Michelle Lewin, Dana Lynn Bailey & Paige Hathaway, Ana Delia, the list could go on! In short, I love that Michelle is fit & toned but, yet so damn sexy. She’s proof that women who lift create beautiful figures. Her transformation alone speaks for itself. Dana on the other hand, is just straight up a beast in the gym and I find that Extremely motivating. She is a true showcase of hard work and dedication.
What does your supplement schedule look like?
I don’t use too many supplements, I try to eat to fuel my body. I notice more results when my diet is on point, over supplements. I do use, Global Formulas and I love taking their Bio Heat- fat burner and Bio Burn- cardio enhancer. When I am getting ready for a photo shoot or competition, I definitely will use those 2 in combo. I will also have their bio pro Isolate protein powder when I can’t fit all my meals in. I do intake about, 6-8 meals a day of lean meats, green veggies, low glycemic fruits and wholesome carbohydrates; like oats, brown rice and sweet potato.
What are you top 10 songs to workout to?
Ohh… This one is hard. I’d have to say my current mood the last few days I’ve been listening to: Studio, Trap Queen, memory lane-Nas, GDFR, 2 on, I’ve been liking the songs from the newer show, Empire.. Like, Drip Drop & keep your money.
What are you most proud of?
How far I’ve made it and the people I can inspire. I NEVER dreamed or imagined I would build a following or to inspire so many people. Looking back on my past, I used to be an introvert and extremely shy, I wouldn’t stand up for myself or anything I believed in. I would run for miles just to relieve pent up emotions. When I found out I was sick physically that’s when I found the gym and learning I was emotionally weak, wasn’t a way to live life. That’s when everything changed. It took me years to learn the ropes of lifting and proper nutrition along side re-building confidence and learning true inner strength. You only have one life to live and your life is your message to the world. I want mine to be inspiring to show you can grow from struggle and find strength.
What’s next for you?
I have my very first show scheduled this year and I can’t wait to see what opportunity this brings. It’s a whole new path for me and I never thought I’d step on stage but I am so excited to see where it takes me next in my career! I also have some photo shoots and expos scheduled within the year. My main goal in the industry, is to reach as many people as possible to be a showcase for those who struggle with chronic pain or the same diseases as I do to inspire them on pushing past the pain to the next level. As well as be an inspiration to those who are perfectly healthy!
Do you have any advice or inspirational words for someone who is aspiring to get into the fitness world?
Never take no for an answer, if you want something, prove you can work for it. Be persistent in your pursuits because Change doesn’t happen overnight. Be Consistent because its shows value in your goals. Be passionate, be ready to face challenge & know your strong enough to push through.
Height: 5’4″
Weight: 112-115 lbs
Born In: Grants Pass, Oregon
Resides: Orange County, Ca
Website: www.hybridfitoc.com
Twitter: @_st3phani3_fit
Facebook: Facebook.com/stephmariefit
Instagram: _st3phani3_
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