How did you get started with bodybuilding?
I’ve always been in pretty good shape with fashion modeling. After my 2nd child, I saw photos in a muscle magazine of Ali Lee …I thought Damn!! I want to look like THAT! So it all began. I set some goals and here I am! After two kids I’m in the best shape I’ve ever been in. Strong is sexy.
Where does your motivation come from?
For me, working out isn’t all about looks…although it’s definitely a plus ;) I use lifting as mindfulness & therapy. If I’m having a crappy day, a workout makes everything better!! It’s a huge stress relief for me.
What workout routine has worked best for you?
On HIIT days I get up and get that done before my brain knows what I’m doing! lol. I’m an afternoon lady, I feel most awake and ready to kill it in the gym then! I train legs and glutes 2-3 times a week, back and shoulders twice. And arms once. Abs every other day. I switch it up often to keep my body guessing. I always use Saturday or Sunday as a rest day, and just do light walking or a bike ride with my kids of it’s nice.
If you had to pick only 3 exercises, what would they be and why?
-Lat pull downs – I LOVE the feeling of my back being strong and posture is so important!
-cable kick backs for the booty! It gets that “s curve” in tip top shape!
-abs, I love doing all ab work because having a strong core helps with everything else!
How long do you spend in the gym during a typical workout?
Usually an hour, depending if I stick to HIIT that day, it makes it an hour and 20mins.
We know consistency is key, what tips would you give to anyone struggling to stay consistent?
I treat it like a fun job. I have to put in my hours for my body to feel and look great! Instead of money, health & feeling strong is the prize. I make sure to set aside my gym time everyday. If I can’t make it a certain day, I don’t beat myself up. Life happens!
What is your diet like?
I eat 5-6 meals a day. 3 meals and 2 snacks. I usually follow the “eat like a queen for breakfast, and a peasant by dinner” lol! 3 Egg whites with spinach & goat cheese for breakfast along with oats and blackberries is one of my favorites. I’m obsessed with avocado, sweet potatoes and all green veggies. A gallon of water everyday…and I always have a big ol’ spoonful of peanut butter before bed!!
How do you deal with cravings for cheat meals?
To help keep me on track, I usually wait until a Friday or Saturday to have a big ol’ burger with sweet potato fries or cheesecake :) having a time slot to have a cheat meal helps me a lot! And it’s something to look forward to on a weekend from working hard all week.
When trying to cut down do you prefer to use HIIT or just normal cardio?
HIIT! Mon-Wed-Fri I do 20-25mins of morning HITT. I walk for one minute and sprint for one minute until I reach the 20 minute mark, and I feel it kicking my butt. Then on Sunday’s I usually walk for 40 minutes on the treadmill while watching the Walking Dead.
Who do you look up to in the fitness industry you believe are really doing great in this industry?
I’ve always admired Janet Layug, she’s also a mom…and wow!!! All mothers really, it’s awesome to see other mommas out there living a fit & healthy lifestyle.
What is your supplementation like?
I’ve tried many supplements, but at the moment I’m using Shredz for a few months to cut down. During off season I take fish oil, vitamin D, and a multivitamin along with eating nutritious foods to fuel my body. Sometimes post workout I go for Isagenix IsaLean Pro shake, otherwise I eat one of my meals immediately after.
What’s your favorite motivational quote?
I have two!
-In the end, we only regret the chances we didn’t take.
-Don’t cry over the past, it’s gone. Don’t stress about the future, it hasn’t happened yet! Live in the present and make it beautiful!!!
What’s you 5 favorite songs to work out to right now?
I can’t just pick 5!!
I love listening to dirty rap on leg days!
Lately, I’ve been going on pandora radio and listening to old school 90’s alternative! Nirvana, Incubus, 311, Sublime, Red Hot Chile Peppers just to name a few. I also love me some Beyoncé, Katy Perry…I love all music!!!
Photos by: LHGFX