How did you get started in the fitness industry?
I’ve always been athletic. I played Division 1 volleyball in college. But as I got older and entered corporate life, I was missing physical goals. So when I learned about fitness competitions in 2011, I was all in! I had no clue what I was doing of course, and luckily I found great coaches, mentors and now have the best, most inspiring friends a girl could have dreamed of! I have evolved my physical, emotional and spiritual body beyond perceived limits through dedicated training and nutrition, all while maintaining my corporate career. I obtained pro status with WBFF as a Pro Diva Fitness Model and I love the marketability, showmanship and family support of the WBFF. As I competed I started to model more, and I have collaborated with many different talented photographers and have proudly been published in STRONG and STATUS Fitness Magazines.
How do you stay motivated in your career?
I have several careers, and my number one passion no matter what career is helping people and feeling valued. So by inspiring others with my dedication, it feeds forward – hearing from my fans and friends that what I’m doing has driven them to get off the couch and explore their bodies, feel happier or more energetic – that fuels me to propel forward and continue upping my game. I have always been motivated by goals, and if anything, I need to continue coaching myself to remain happy with the pace of things. Good things will come in good time – enjoy the journey and the experiences and learnings along the way. I practice a lot of yoga to stay connected to my mind and body, as well as stay grounded and present so that I don’t rush or become more focused on external goals than myself and my family.
What was your biggest challenge in your fitness journey?
I have always loved training hard, but I was not educated on nutrition prior to starting my fitness career. The most challenging part of my fitness journey has been the discipline on my plate – from the right mix of protein, carbs, and fats, to the amounts, to the emotional triggers I have around food. I work in the corporate world, and it’s full of bagels, donuts, and sodas. Learning to say no because I’m saying yes to something else has been an ongoing journey. Being happy and ok with (and responding to questions from others about) my choices when my family wants to go out for pizza has also been a journey to look at this dedication from a place of love when others ask questions about it.
What are your favorite clean foods and splurge foods?
Sushi! When clean, I love sashimi. For a splurge, sushi rolls are my go-to when I get a cheat. I love the way I feel after I eat sushi in any form. Post-show I love a burger and carrot cake. My other favorite clean foods are taco salads (skip the chips), steak, and believe it or not I love steamed broccoli, brussel sprouts, and green beans. And my favorite clean carbs are sweet potatoes and brown rice with coconut oil melted over the top. Yummmm! The one clean food I really can’t look at anymore is tilapia. I’m so over it.
See More: Covergirl & WWE Queen, Torrie Wilson
How was your amazing trip to Costa Rica and what was your favorite part of the trip?
I have been to Costa Rica almost 20 times so I was a yes for this trip right away! I knew many of the crew had never been. My favorite part is and always will be bringing people to that country for the first time and having them experience the food, the people, the howler monkeys and the sunsets. It is Pura Vida, pure life, at its best.
For More Rah Engstrom:
Follow her at @rahevolution
More Justin Martin @justinmartinphoto
More Brett Seeley @seeleyfoto
