When did it all begin? I don't remember that far back! I have been an athlete as long as I can remember. I started Ice skating when I was 4 and was competing by the time I was 6. Dancing classes started when I was 5 and gymnastics when I was 8. By the time I was in middle school I had dropped Ice skating and began swimming competitively. High school sports peeked new interests. I stopped gymnastics, dance and swimming and took up soccer, track and tennis. I was going to run in college but decided to give my body a “break” and really focus on my academics. That idea did not stick. I quickly became restless and started teaching aerobics classes. With the aerobics underway I needed more. I began extensive weight training and got hooked. I had been introduced to weights in High School by a male friend who showed me the ropes. It did not take long for me to pick it up as routine. I loved the way it reshaped my body. I was a pretty thin kid and body building really filled out my figure. The extra time I had in college gave me reason to revisit weights. At that time in my life I was trying to get into “contest” shape. Something to do…… a goal to attain. I never did a show in school but it has remained a desire and a huge part of my life, training that is.

After having a child I was determined to get my figure back. I had not gained but 25 pounds, thanks to staying in the gym my entire pregnancy, but I still had a ways to go after she was born. Your body gets totally distorted! But thankfully muscle has memory. I started back in the gym 6 weeks after little one came into this world. It took me 5 months to get back to my pre-pregnant self and 7 months to look better than I did before baby.

THE “D” WORD……DIET!

Diet is a MAJOR Part of obtaining your desired body. You can stair step you booty off and still look “so-so” if you eat junk! Fill your body with nutrition. Food for fuel. I do not follow a written diet. I have learned what works for me. When I have a craving I give in, sometimes, and in small amounts. I try to stick to a 60% protein, 30% complex carbs and 10% fats. I eat 4 square meals and 1-2 snacks a day. It may seem like a lot but when you feed your body well and often it boosts your metabolism. This is a good thing! Fast food is bad food, easy statement to remember. When in a rush or bind you can get “healthier” choices today but preparing your own foods is always better.