Maureen Clary Interview

Maureen Clary falls into that category of once I saw them, I asked myself "Why have I not interviewed her yet?". I was so impressed with her physique the moment I saw her. Into working out her whole life, she competed in Figure in 2006 as well as bench press competitions before winning her class in her first bodybuilding show. Maureen plans to compete in some National shows this year and I am anxious to see what she brings to the stage as with time comes improvement, and improving on what she already has means she is going to rock any stage she steps on.




Q: First, Maureen, I want to thank you for taking the time to do this.
A: Thank you, Jason, I appreciate your interest. And also the opportunity you are giving to female body builders to highlight them in a positive light.

Q: Can you start out by telling a little about yourself?
A: I was born in Paterson, NJ to Pat and Jim Donlevy, the oldest of their ten children. Currently, I live in Fort Mill, SC; married to Bill and have 3 children, Bryan, Lauren and Kayla and 1 step son, Jon.

Q: Before the gym were you an especially athletic person? Play any sports or anything?
A: I have always been interested in working out. But I never played any sports or competed until four years ago.

Q: What initially led you into the gym?
A: When I was a child, my mom and I watched the Jack La Lanne show and we exercised with him. I have always had an interest in working out. I purchased my first gym membership when I was 16 and have belonged to gyms most of my life.

Q: Was training something you picked up fairly easy? How long before you started to see results?
A: I come from a highly competitive family so training in general was the norm. However, I’m blessed with great genetics and show results more rapidly compared to most people.


Q: What made you decide to compete for the first time?
A: In 2004, I entered a 12 week transformation contest and won a trip to Hawaii. The gym I belong to (Omni Gym in Rock Hill, SC) displayed my before and after photos and story. One of the trainer’s at the time mentioned to me that I should do a bikini competition. My initial reaction was there is no way I am going to put on a skimpy suit and 5” heels and walk across a stage! But the idea kept nagging at me and I decided, what did I have to lose?... or on second thought, win? So that’s when I entered my first show.

Q: Is competing something your family and friends supported?
A: I am very fortunate that my husband is 110% supportive of me in this sport. So are my children, parents and mother-in-law. Initially some of my siblings and extended family had a little challenge seeing me as a bodybuilder but now they are all so excited for me and my success.

Q: Was competing what you expected or did anything surprise you about it?
AL Competing is not quite what I expected. It is a lot more work than I realized. But I do like a challenge and look at it as a lifestyle choice. On the other hand, it is a lot more rewarding than I expected too. It is fascinating to learn so much about how our bodies work and see how proper nutrition and exercise can change our look.

Q: Can you share your contest history.
A: I began by entering figure competitions in 2006-2007; won numerous state and regional bench press competitions in 2008 (USAPL, APF and IBP); placed 2nd in the USAPL National Bench Press Championship in 2008; won my class at my first Bodybuilding show in NJ in 2009; entered the NPC Nationals in 2009; won my class and best overall at the NPC Mid-Atlantic National Qualifier in Charlotte (promoted by Kevin DeHaven and Dar Malecki) in 2010; and again entered but didn’t place in the 2010 NPC National Bodybuilding Championships.

Q: As far as body parts, what do you feel is your best one?
A: Hmmm…. It’s hard for me to choose just one… each one been my favorite at one time or another. I guess it would be fair to say my favorite one is the one I am currently working out :-)


Q: Do you have a part you most like to train or favorite exercise?
A: Currently, my goal is to get really good at wide grip pull-ups. For my all time favorite exercise, I Love to bench press.

Q: What is your normal training routine and diet like and how do you alter it for contest prep?
A: I normally weight train 6 days a week and eat a fairly clean diet all the time. During contest prep, I usually up my reps and cardio. And spend more time weighing and measuring my food and water requirements daily.

Q: When someone sees your physique or hears you compete for the first time, what is the most common reaction? More positive or negative?
A: When someone sees my physique or hears I compete, the reaction is very positive. Most of the time, people ask me questions about my training or diet or how long did it take for me to get this way?

Q: When they see it that first time, what is the one question or comment you are most sick of hearing?
A: I feel happy to respond to people’s questions because I understand that most times they feel motivated by my physique and want to learn how they can better themselves. What I have minimal tolerance for is whiners and complainers or people who make excuses.

Q: What is the biggest misconception about women who train and compete or the one thing you wish people understood?
A: I think the biggest misconception is that women who weight train lose their femininity. Also, people don’t realize how important nutrition is in achieving good results.


Q: What is the best and worst part of training for you?
A: I love setting and reaching new goals. So the best part for me is the process and seeing the results of my hard work. The worst part is trying to find the time to set aside to do it all.

Q: Do you have any favorite competitors or any you admire?
A: There are so many.... I really appreciate all bodybuilders because I respect the hard work and dedication it takes to achieve the level of competitor. Although I would say, one that stands out to me is Denise Masino. I think she reflects my image of the ideal feminine bodybuilder plus she has become a good mentor and friend.

Q: Do you have a favorite cheat food?
A: If I plan a cheat, it will probably be cookies, pizza or a vanilla cone dipped in chocolate from dairy queen.

Q: If another woman told you she wanted to start training, what is the one piece of advice you would most want to give her?
A: Don’t compare yourself to anyone else. Look at where you are and where you want to be and allow yourself to feel proud as you achieve milestones on the journey to your goal. Be the best YOU can be based on the assets you currently have.
Oh and, put the weights back when you are finished using them :-)

Q: Do you think it is becoming more common to see women in the gym training as hard as men?
A: Ha ha!!! That’s a funny question; do you think men really train hard? ;) idk if I would say that. I think there may be more women coming to the gym these days compared to the “old” days. And there are probably some men who train as hard as some of the women. Don’t necessarily think that work ethic is related to gender.


Q: Outside of training, any other hobbies or activities you enjoy?
A: I enjoy spending time with family and friends, reading, learning and experiencing new things, gardening, painting and trance music.

Q: Can you describe a typical day in the life of Maureen Clary.
A: Very busy! Start the day early, go to the gym, eat, and take my daughter to school. Eat, work at our consulting business, eat. Sometimes a 2nd workout, eat. Evenings are for home maintenance, kid’s activities, family time and eating.

Q: Describe Maureen Clary in five words.
A: Thoughtful, Optimistic, Goal-driven, Passionate, Unique

Q: What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
A: Hmmm... I have a lot of surprises… One would be I used to sing Opera.

Q: Any set plans for the near future as far as competing or anything else?
A: Yes, I plan on doing a couple of national shows later this year.

Q: Anything you want to take this opportunity to plug or promote?
A: I am fortunate to have had a few great sponsors that I am proud to plug.
•Omni Gym in Rock Hill, SC is a great gym with a great staff, great members, 5 benches, 2 squat racks and a wide variety of other equipment that is maintained. The trainers are sincere and have helped a lot of people. The group fitness manager makes working out fun. Lots of cardio equipment. Plus the gym is kept very clean.
•Rock Hill Nutrition, owned by Steve (competitor) and Danielle Wayman. They take pride in the fact that every product they sell has to pass their flavor, mixability, potency, effectiveness and safety test.
*Contenders Boxing Ring. Boxing is an excellent cardio workout and Joe Mayer’s gym has a really cool atmosphere, boxing ring, weight room and experienced trainers. Check them out at And a few friends, who are bodybuilders and dedicated, knowledgeable personal trainers that I would like to recommend and promote are:
Emmett Ballard, Tega Cay, SC and
Mary Ellen Jerumbo, El Paso, TX

Q: Are you looking for sponsors? If so how can they reach you and what are they getting in Maureen Clary the athlete and competitor?
A: Yes, I am looking for sponsors who have a quality product or service they would like to promote. I am in the process of creating a website at but until it’s up, Facebook is probably the easiest way to reach me. Search for Maureen Donlevy Clary.
What would a sponsor get in Maureen Clary the athlete and competitor? I would say a person who is easily approachable, comfortable to talk with and one who would actively promote their product.


Q: Maureen, again, I thank you for taking the time to do this. Any last words before you go?
A: Thank you for the opportunity, Jason. I hope 2011 will be a successful one for you and that you will be pain free and reach all your goals!

Brittany Leppke Interview

Great physique, great attitude, beautiful, intelligent, determined, Brittany Leppke has it all. I was very happy Brittany agreed to an interview because she is someone I have become so impressed with, and so do the judges, as Brittany has made it a habit of winning. If you are not familiar with her, get familiar, because Brittany is well on her way to being a star in the fitness industry.

Q: First, Brittany, I want to thank you for taking the time to do this.
A: I would like to thank you for taking the time to interview competitors and for asking me to do this.

Q: Can you start out by telling a little about yourself.
A: I grew up in a small city in Alberta, Canada, where I still live now. I am from a family of four girls which is definitely interesting at times, but mostly fun. I have an awesome Mom, who is also my biggest fan and supporter. I am married to a wonderful man who is also extremely supportive of my competing and encourages me to push myself in anything I pursue.

Q: Before the gym were you an especially athletic person? Play any sports or anything?
A: I was a competitive dancer growing up and loved mainly the competition parts – getting up on stage, preparing the dance, practicing, the big hair and makeup and the sparkly costumes.
I was the most un-athletic person sports-wise. People that knew me before laugh at how athletic I am now. In high school I would do whatever I could to get out of gym class.

Q: What initially led you into the gym?
A: The fear of waking up old, overweight and miserable led me to the gym initially. When I saw a picture of Monica Brant for the first time, a switch flipped in my brain and I never looked back.

Q: Was training something you picked up fairly easy? How long before you started to see results?
A: I was scared to lift weights at first, like many women I had a fear of “bulking up”. The more I educated myself, the more I realized how hard female bodybuilders work for their muscle, that it is not by accident they look that way, and that it is impossible for a women to get to that level without really trying to. I saw results right away because I had been inactive for a few years after giving up dancing. But it was when I learned the true value of clean eating that I began to see my hard work in the gym translating into measurable gains in my physique.

Q: What made you decide to compete for the first time?
A: I am a competitive person by nature and all my years of competitive dance instilled that desire to get out there and show off my hard work. I went to a show that was being held locally and as soon as I got there, I turned to my mom and said, “These are my people”. It seems silly but I knew at that moment that it was something I had to do.

Q: Is competing something your family and friends supported?
A: I initially lost some friends over it because some people cannot understand the dedication to the sport or why you would want to do it. They think you are obsessed. However, I have replaced those friends with people I have met through the sport who share the same values and passions as me, and those friendships have brought so much to my life. My family has always been extremely supportive and loving towards me throughout this process. My sisters, mom and husband have been there every step of the way.

Q: Was competing what you expected or did anything surprise you about it?
A: I was completely naive about how far some competitors are willing to go in hopes of placing. I was surprised at how many people lose balance in their lives and lose sight of their initial motivation and goals. I was surprised at how unhealthy some people are in this sport. I know that some of the dieting and training that many of us do (myself included) while getting ready for a show can be extreme, but some people take it to a whole different level with the use of drugs, without thinking about the long term side effects to their body and that makes me sad. I choose to compete 100% naturally, and will continue to do so throughout my career.


Q: Can you share your contest history.
A: I would love to! I am still a ‘newbie’ to the stage but have been quite successful so far. I have competed with the Alberta Body Building Association (ABBA) which is a federation sanctioned under the CBBF and the IFBB. In June 2008, I did a regional level show – Tier 1 Figure Short and I won my class. I then took two years off to train and bring up my imbalances. In June 2010, I did a provincial (state) level show – Tier 2 Figure Short and I won my class, then I won the Overall Figure Title. In October 2010 I won an award for “Top Figure Competitor Of the Year” within my federation, which was an honor because I was nominated and voted for by my peers. I am now prepping for the National Level and will be making my debut in July 2011.

Q: As far as body parts, what do you feel is your best one?
A: I have always gotten a lot of positive response about my glutes/lower body from the judges. But I am most proud of my shoulders and back as I had to train incredibly hard to build them up. Having been a dancer, I always had a developed/conditioned lower body but pencil arms and no lat or delt muscles to speak of.

Q: Do you have a part you most like to train or favorite exercise?
A: I love training my legs/glutes because they are really powerful and I cannot get enough of sprinting and plyometrics. I love training back and shoulders because I feel strong when I am done.

Q: What is your normal training routine and diet like and how do you alter it for contest prep?
A: My training during pre-contest is 4 days of weight training, 5 days of cardio, working 1 body part per session and a combination of HIIT, skipping, stairs and LISS for my cardio. My diet is fairly strict pre-contest because I am natural I have to watch everything I put in my mouth because there are no shortcuts to muscle gains or fat loss. I eat 8 times a day. During Contest Prep my cardio will increase and my calories will decrease.

Q: When someone sees your physique or hears you compete for the first time, what is the most common reaction? More positive or negative?
A: It is usually positive. Most people are curious about what I eat, how much I train, what supplements/drugs I take, etc. If someone is negative towards it I feel sorry for them. In my experience when someone is negative about anything in life it is usually because they are lazy, jealous, ignorant or envious and they deserve my sympathy.

Q: When they see it that first time, what is the one question or comment you are most sick of hearing?
A: The only thing that gets irritating to me is whenever I pull food out and people want to know what it is. That can drive me crazy! By the time I am ready to eat I am irritable as it is because my metabolism works fast and I just want to get my food in. When you are eating 8 times a day, people constantly asking you what you are eating can get really old. The worst was when I was dieting for my last show and was eating literally the same thing at the same time, every single day and the girls I was working with at the time would ask me what I was eating every single time.

Q: What is the biggest misconception about women who train and compete or the one thing you wish people understood?
A: The biggest misconception out there about women who train and compete are that we are all stuck up, vain, selfish and using drugs. Yes, some women in this sport are stuck up, vain and selfish but there are people like that everywhere who do not compete. There are also a lot of people out there using steroids, growth hormone, fat burners, diuretics, etc. that do not compete.

Q: What is the best and worst part of training for you?
A: The best part of training is the sense of accomplishment I feel after a great workout, seeing the changes in my body and all those endorphins.
The worst part can be the time commitment and feeling guilty for spending so much time in the gym, posing and thinking about the show. I don’t enjoy feeling moody and tired in the months leading up to the show.

Q: Do you have any favorite competitors or any you admire?
A: When I was younger I looked up to Monica Brant. But now I look up to Erin Stern for her natural beauty and athleticism and also to Nicole Wilkins Lee for the simple fact that she has accomplished so much at a young age, she must be extremely driven.

Q: Do you have a favorite cheat food?
A: Bernard Callebaut chocolate, hot wings and nachos

Q: If another woman told you she wanted to start training, what is the one piece of advice you would most want to give her?
A: Do your research, invest in a good trainer, go to a show, be prepared to work hard and make sacrifices!

Q: Do you think it is becoming more accepted by society to see women training as hard as men in the gym?
A: I believe society as a whole is embracing the notion of women training in the gym, but not necessarily to see women training as hard as men, in the gym. Female bodybuilders, and overly muscular women period, make a lot of people in society uncomfortable. Bodybuilding is a sub-culture within mainstream society, it is meant to make people uncomfortable. Bodybuilders (both male and female) work extremely hard to look different. Recently there have been more attempts to make competitors more mainstream, through the introduction of categories like bikini but those women do not train as hard as men in the gym and that is what people are comfortable with.

Q: Is fitness modeling something that interests you?
A: I believe that fitness modeling and competing go hand in hand, especially for those athletes who want sponsorship deals, endorsements and to build a large fan base. I enjoy modelling, it can be a lot of fun. I do not have a ton of experience with it, so that is something I am definitely interested in pursuing a bit more this competitive season.

Q: Outside of training, any other hobbies or activities you enjoy?
A: I enjoy downtime, which can be anything from watching movies with my husband, to going for coffee with a friend or just soaking in a hot tub.

Q: Can you describe a typical day in the life of Brittany Leppke.
A: My days are always busy, I am energetic and always on the go. I am a student so a lot of my day is spent either in class, at the school studying or at home doing homework. The hours left over are dedicated to my training, meal prepping and eating, spending time with my husband, family and friends, and maintaining somewhat of a clean, organized and orderly home.

Q: Describe Brittany Leppke in five words.
A: Driven, ambitious, Dedicated, Compassionate, Humble

Q: What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
A: People always tell me that I am not at all what they thought I was going to be like. I am not sure what people think I am going to be like, but if you were to meet me, you would probably be surprised too! LOL

Q: Any set plans for the near future as far as competing or anything else?
A: I am planning on competing at Canadian Nationals this July. I am hoping the judges like my look! If I place top 5 there I will consider going to North Americans in Cleveland or to the Arnold Amateur next spring. I am starting my Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree this fall, which I am really excited about.

Q: Anything you want to take this opportunity to plug or promote?
A: My friend, Brienne Whitehead(also a fellow competitor) and I have started up a contest prep business to help women who are amateur competitors as they prepare for shows. She will be responsible for doing the dieting and training. I will be focusing on preparing the women for their posing, stage walks, stage confidence, poise and helping them with suit selections, hair and makeup. It is called “Step It Up – Contest Prep” and we can be reached via e-mail at: or through my facebook page: Brittany Lee Leppke


Q: Are you looking for sponsors? If so how can they reach you and what are they getting in Brittany Leppke the athlete and competitor?
A: I am currently accepting offers for sponsorship.
If you are interested in sponsoring me I can offer you the following:
The promise to wear clothing with your company logo both while training in the gym, and also to my events.
The promise to list you as a key sponsor on my website as well as on my facebook page.
The promise to mention you during any media coverage I am exposed to.
The promise to maintain a healthy and positive image at all times, one that you can be proud of.
The promise to represent your company on a National and International level in the best positive light at all times.
The promise to travel to various trade shows as a representative of your company, one that you can depend on and be proud of.
The promise to promote your company's products on my website as well as on my facebook page.
The promise to give 110% to my training and to my sport in order to continue to deliver successful results and win additional titles.

I can be contacted via e-mail at: or through my facebook page: Brittany Lee Leppke

Q: Brittany, again, I thank you for taking the time to do this. Any last words before you go?
A: Thanks again for asking me to do this. It was a lot of fun to answer your questions. I want to wish you continued success on your own weight loss journey and I look forward to hearing the results of your first competition!

Karen Schutz-Chewning Interview

A veteran of only two competitions so far, Karen Schutz-Chewning has been very impressive. With top five finishes in both shows, she has more than made a good showing. Karen has shown and will continue to show what hard work and dedication produces. I am anxoious to see Karen take the stage in 2011 and surely look even better than she did in 2010 thanks to that condinued hard work and dedication.





Q: First, Karen, I want to thank you for taking the time to do this.
A: Your very welcome!!

Q: Can you start out by telling a little about yourself.
A: Well I am the youngest of 4. I have two older brothers and sister. My parents have been divorced for many years now. I am originally from Brick Twp. but when my father got remarried we moved to Wall Twp. I spent from 6th to 12th grade there. I now am currently divorced and have 3 wonderful healthy beautiful children ages 16, 15, and 8. I also am super lucky enough to have my boyfriend of almost a year to be there by my side through whatever happens.

Q: Before the gym were you an esepcially athletic person? Play any sports or anything?
A: I have always been a sports person. Being that I have 2 older brothers. Grew up playing softball and football with them and their friends. I started gymnastics when I was in 8th grade. When I was in high school I was in gymnastics and softball for the 4 years. My junior and senior year I played powderpuff (girls) football. needless to say I was in the gym a lot and I loved it.

Q: What initially led you into the gym?
A: Training for gymnastics. Grew to love it. Even after school I was always exercising. When I was finally able to I joined a gym and have been there ever since.

Q: Was training something you picked up fairly easy? How long before you started to see results?
A: Yes loved it. I pick up on things fairly easy especially when it comes to something you love doing. It took a few months to see any results. I learned eventually that my diet also had to change.

Q: What made you decide to compete for the first time?
A: Well I was hesitant for quite sometime. Didnt think it was for me or I could do it. But with my trainers "go get 'em" attitude and her telling me over and over again she thinks I will be excellent!!! I finally gave in and said "wait a minute! this is a challenge, I love challenges!!" and I have a great person telling me I can make it.

Q: Is competing something your family and friends supported?
A: At first they thought I was crazy and started to get worried with the amount of weight I lost. They saw the dedication I put into it and came around and supported me.


Q: Was competing what you expected or did anything surprise you about it?
A: It was a whole new experience. My trainer pretty much prepared me on what to expect and was pretty much what happened. I was just worried I didnt look good enough. There was one thing that surprised me, if you know me you know where I am coming from. How well I pulled off walking around on heels!!!!

Q: Can you share your contest history.
A: On April 24, 2010 I competed in debut figure class for the OCB organization and took 5th place. On August 7, 2010 I competed in the novice figure class for the NCP organization and took 4th place.

Q: As far as body parts, what do you feel is your best one?
A: My back!

Q: Do you have a part you most like to train or favorite exercise>
A: Like to train legs the most! But my most favorite exercise is push ups!!!

Q: What is your normal training routine and diet like and how do you alter it for contest prep?
A: Normal: I like to hit the gym at least 4-5 times a week getting in every a workout for every body part. I usually use less weight just to keep firm and toned. My diet is for the most part healthy. I still enjoy my shakes, everything is natural wheat when it comes to carbs, always egg whites no yolks, but off contest prep I have my pizza and of course my wine!! I always use turkey meat for burgers, with pasta, and meatballs!
Diet: NO salt, wine, pizza or any junk food!!! straight up plain chicken, turkey and bison with green veggies and more veggies and lots and lots of water. as far as gym goes I go everyday using heavier weights and more specific exercises.

Q: When someone sees your physique or hears you compete for the first time, what is the most common reaction? More positive or negative?
A: When someone sees me in training, they usually know or suspect that I am competing and they say I look great. I usually get "wow that's determination!" and more positive not everyone has the will and stamina to do it, and those who don't respect that.

Q: When they see it that first time, what is the one question or comment you are most sick of hearing?
A: C"an you help me with my diet or show me some pointers?"

Q: What is the biggest misconception about women who train and compete or the one thing you wish people understood?
A: That women don't do it to try to be like men. They do it because we also have determination and strength. Its just as hard for women to train as it is a man. There are woman who like to look their best and feel comfortable in there own skin, then there are woman who like to look there best go that extra mile and want to show off what they have achieve and get acknowledged for it.


Q: What is the best and worst part of training for you?
A: The best part I would have to say is that I get to spend time in a place I love going...........the gym. The worse part having to part with my wine!! but I make it though.

Q: Do you have any favorite competitors or any you admire?
A: Not really, I am rather new to figure competing so not really sure of all who is out there.

Q: Do you have a favorite cheat food?
A: PIZZA

Q: If another woman told you she wanted to start training, what is the one piece of advice you would most want to give her?
A: Along with exercising you must change you diet, and READ LABELS on food, there is alot of crap in foods they tell you are good for you!!

Q: Do you think it is becoming more accepted by society to see women training as hard as men in the gym?
A: For the most part yes. Because it always has been seen that men should be the ones who should be weight lifting and training. But over the past years more and more woman are out there competing no matter what it is, and showing that woman can do this too.


Q: Outside of training, any other hobbies or activities you enjoy?
A: I enjoy spending time with my kids and my boyfriend, taking my son to scouts and going camping especially, taking my kids to a park messing around playing ball, or sitting at the dining room table talking or just popping in a movie with some popcorn!! And of course there is always football season, cant leave that out!

Q: Can you describe a typical day in the life of Karen Schutz-Chewning.
A: well, I have 3 kids to get off to school. Make sure house is cleaned up. Kids appts for docs are made, squeeze in the gym. Make sure everything is going as smooth as I can for my family, do homework with kids, dinner, clean up time with kids and boyfriend then bed.

Q: Describe Karen Schutz-Chewning in five words.
A: Dedicated, Inspiring, Youthful, Confident, and Self motivated

Q: What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
A: How soft of a person I am. I have a hard outer shell but get to know me and you can see that I am a kind hearted person that loves with all my heart!!

Q: Any set plans for the near future as far as competing or anything else?
A: I do want to compete more. Looking into the next one to do with my boyfriend as I am filling this out!

Q: Anything you want to take this opportunity to plug or promote?
A: Women's fitness, bodybuilding, figure, bikini anything. If you think you can do you just might be able to. Its all about will power and the drive within yourself to make it happen. No one can do it for you. Its like wanting to lose weight or start exercising you have to have the inner drive to do it for yourself. You are what makes you happen!!!

Q: Are you looking for sponsors? If so how can they reach you and what are they getting in Karen Schutz-Chewning the athlete and competitor?
A: At this time? I will keep the possibilities open. Having them cant hurt. What would they be getting from me? Well I am very driven at the decisions I make. If I decide to do something I try my damnedest and pull all my effort and self into doing it. If I didn't I would have never competed to begin with. Its a lot of hard work, dedication and motivation to compete. That is instilled in me, I have always had it and it will never go away!!!


Q: Karen, again, I thank you for taking the time to do this. Any last words before you go?
A: For anyone who wants to feel comfortable in their own skin and be happy with themselves you have to believe in yourself and if its the extra weight that is keeping you from doing so then find it within yourself and do something about it. everyone can lose weight and be who they want to be. Its you who has to take that first step. I have to put in here that I have helped my sister lose over 20 pounds. she looks great!!! And shes keeping up on everything that I have given her because this is something she wants to do for herself. So she took that first step and came to me for advise and what to do and change and I couldn't be more proud at the progress she had made with her own self effort and motivation.

Adriana Sanchez Interview

After reading this interview, I am sure you will agree with me. You can not be a fan of the sport and not be a fan of Adriana Sanchez. Just looking at the below transformation photo should be enough to inspire you. BUt if it isn't read about her journey and her love for fitness, and that will surely be enough. Adriana is not just a beautiful woman with an increidble physique. She is a pleasant woman to talk to, and as you will read, she is quick to give lots of credit to those who ahve helped her along the way. So read this and prepare to become an Adriana Sanchez fan.







Q: First, Adriana, I want to thank you for taking the time to do this.
A: The pleasure is mine Jason. Thank you for spinning the bottle my way :-)

Q: Can you start out by telling a little about yourself.
A: Sure. I am 29, and was born and raised in Houston, TX where I still reside. The only time I did not live in Houston was when I moved to Norman to attend the University of Oklahoma.
Familia… My family is my rock. I am blessed to still have both parents in my life. They have always been very supportive of my ventures, no matter how crazy or off the wall they may seem! My parents just wanted me to enjoy any opportunities that came my way, since I was being exposed to opportunities that were not available to them when they were growing up. I am the middle child, have an older sister and younger brother. My brother, sister and I were inseparable growing up. It was funny because we are all so different. My sister was always the beautiful outgoing girl, and my brother….well as the youngest AND only boy he got away with MURDER!!
Growing up I was very shy and reserved growing up. I always felt tomboyish and awkward in my younger days. In high school I was a majorette, which came as a surprise to everyone that knew me because it was completely out of my element. I went from shy girl in the hallway to firecracker on field during performances and I loved every minute of it So… I guess performing has always been something I wanted to do.

Q: Before the gym were you an especially athletic person? Play any sports or
anything?
A: Do high school sports count? :-) I played volleyball and ran track in middle and high school and was awful! I mean I really enjoyed being active but certainly didn’t naturally excel in either sport. So of course there were NO athletic scholarships being stuffed in my mailbox.


Q: What initially led you into the gym?
A: My sophomore year in college I started hitting up the rec center after my weight began to get way out of control. Of course, I didn’t know what I was doing. I just went in, did cardio and basic weight training. Right or wrong, I had at least increased my caloric expenditure so I was able to take some of the weight off. After moving back to Houston a friend that I worked with invited me to the gym with her on a 10-day trial pass. We didn’t know what we were doing! In fact, we were that goofy annoying bunch that hogs up all the machines on the fitness floor.
After a couple of days I turned to Group Exercise classes for variety. I had never done classes before, but I like the classes because they were different from what I had been doing and gave me a little direction. Mind you, I had absolutely NO INTENTION of actually joining the gym, I was just passing time. On the last day of my trial pass I attended a kickboxing class with an instructor I had not taken class from. O…M…G! Jay Guillory absolutely blew me away with this class! He was fun, entertaining, motivating…and it was really a GREAT workout! I signed up that day  All I wanted to do after that was take classes…sometime I would do 2 or three back to back because they were just so much fun!
About a year later Jay (who is not only phenomenal instructor but was also the Group Exercise manager of the club at the time) announced an upcoming Instructor training and certification and asked if I had any interest in participating. Hmm... I wonder why? Maybe because I was in every evening class and had crept up to the front row  So I attended the training and certification and started teaching Group Exercise classes. Wow! It was like performing all over again. I had developed a passion for fitness and really just loved sharing that with people. I got trained in as many formats as possible to expand my teaching opportunities. Fast forward to 8 years to 2011 and I still teach. Along the way I created countless fitness challenges for my class participants to keep them motivated. People that wanted to really take it to the next level started asking me to train them after seeing results from the classes alone. After more extensive studying, workshops, and research I was able to add Personal Training and Nutrition Planning to my menu of offerings. Changing people’s lives is my reward and reason for what I do.

Q: Was training something you picked up fairly easy? How long before you started to see results?
A: Would you believe I was actually in denial that I even needed training?! 5 years ago I was approached by Artis Stewart, a Personal Trainer that offered me a few workouts after observing some of my classes. Excuse me??? My classes were packed and my class participants thought I was the ultimate fitness expert. I didn’t need training! But ok….I decided to give it a shot. After my initial fitness consultation I discovered I had absolutely no core and was not able to PROPERLY perform solid squats or push-ups. I could hardly walk in a straight line without rolling my ankles! This was all so new to me because I had never been exposed to the concept of corrective exercise or postural distortions but YEP, apparently I had them!
My first year of training was all corrective exercise…all seemingly simple stuff. It was SO FRUSTRATING! Years of poor form and technique had left me with awful compensation patterns. I was so used to big high energy workouts so the rehab type exercises that targeted the smaller muscle groups that I didn’t even know about were definitely a test of my patience.


Q: What made you decide to compete for the first time?
A: After months of corrective exercise and general strength training my trainer suggested that we set a new goal. It started with a transformation contest at work. We were given 12 weeks to see who could change the most in pictures. That was my first taste of discipline. I was so used to eating whatever I wanted because I taught so many Group Exercise classes, and now I had to follow a meal plan and stick to a strict cardio schedule. Wouldn’t you know… it paid off and I won the challenge with flying colors!
Artis then proposed the idea of leaning me out and putting me in a show. This was all foreign territory for me. Me? Get that lean? NOT HAPPENING! I didn’t think it was physically possible for me. Mind you… I had JUST been exposed to real strength training; I had been only a Cardio Queen before. Then he showed me a Life&Style Magazine that featured Monica Brant. I was so impressed by her display and balance of beauty and strength, and this was without me knowing anything about her. I had no idea she was a fitness icon. But I went along with Artis’ idea and we trained for the 2007 BSN Hot Body Contest at the Dallas Europa. I didn’t place in the contest…came in too lean and too hard for a swimsuit and model category. But it was learning experience, since I had never been to or seen a show before. The highlight of that contest was being exposed to the Figure women for the first time. Keep in mind, the Europa is a Pro/Am so I was seeing all the top of the line competitors. Needless to say, that was the moment I decided I wanted to be a Figure competitor.

Q: Was competing something your family and friends supported at the time?
A: It was actually a split. My family, who was usually 100% supportive of my projects was now discouraging my new project. They didn’t understand why I wouldn’t eat the food at family functions. It’s not like I was overweight, so what’s with the diet and the weird food? The smaller I got, the more my family was convinced that I had an eating disorder and that I was starving myself. Ugh…it wasn’t until I showed my family THE AMOUNT of food I put away daily, only then I start receiving full support.
My friends and clients are a different story. They thought I was a little crazy at first (“Oh no…what’s she up to now….”) but they believed in me and supported me from day 1. They tell me I am their motivation, but I feel like it’s the other way around.

Q: Was competing what you expected? Did anything surprise you about it?
A: Jason I’ll be honest….I had no idea what I was getting myself into! I just remember seeing the figure girls onstage for the first time and knowing that I wanted to be that stage one day. Competing was new and different to me and I knew absolutely nothing about it. What surprised me about it was how quickly and easily you meet people when involved in competition. Going to the shows, especially when you travel to the national level shows, kind of feels like camp. You meet people, develop friendships and relationships, and then part for the season or until the next show. You may or may not keep in touch, but it’s always good to kick it and catch up when you DO see each other again.


Q: Can you share your contest history.
A: Oh wow, let’s see…
*June 2008 – MuscleMania Figure Universe
*July 2008 – NPC John Sherman Classic – 1st
*Nov 2008 – NGA USA Championships – 1st
*June 2009 – NPC Greater Gulf States – 7th
*July 2009 – NPC USA Championships – 16th
*Aug 2009 – NPC Houston Pro/Am – 2nd (Figure) & 3rd (Bikini)
*Sept 2009 – NPC Team Universe – 5th
*Nov 2009 – NPC Nationals – 6th
*July 2010 – NPC USA Championships- 11th
*Aug 2010 – NPC Jr USAs – 6th

Q: As far as body parts, what do you feel is your best one?
A: Legs. Hands down. I love my legs even though I have been told by some that they overpower my frame; that they are too much and I need to tone them down, etc, etc.

Q: Do you have a part you most like to train or favorite exercise?
A: Of course not. My glutes are a challenge for me and I hate training abs. But if I had to pick one… shoulders. Not the actual process, I just love the look of pumped delts. :-)

Q: What is your normal training routine and diet like, and how do you alter it for contest prep?
A: Honestly, it’s different every year. Anytime I am not in contest prep it’s all heavy weights 4-5 days a week. I teach Group Exercise classes as well, but these do not count towards my training or conditioning, as they are considered part of my daily lifestyle. I am guilty of the off-season over-indulging. One of my New Year’s Resolutions is to stick to my off-season meal plan. Or try to anyway…
I eat 6 times a day both in my growth and pre-contest phases. The difference? Sugar allowances and water intake. Less and more.

Q: When someone sees your physique or hears you compete for the first time,
what is the most common reaction? More positive or negative?
A: Positive…”Do you see them legs?!?!?!” (laugh) I have always worked in a very mainstream fitness industry, but being fit to the general fitness population is completely different from the things that the judging panels look for. But in the long run it works in my favor because my clients trust what I tell them. Not only do I talk the talk but I can also back it up with measurable results. This keeps them motivated and on track.


Q: When they see it that first time, what is the one question or comment you are most sick of hearing?
A: “What do you eat?”
Don’t get me wrong, I am happy to sit down with people to talk food and discuss nutrition planning if they are serious about changing and committing to a program. Unfortunately, I get approached by waves of people that read articles about losing 10 pounds in 2 weeks and think that is all it takes to achieve and maintain a complete transformation. I was not born lucky and I don’t have a naturally small frame. My pre-contest diet, like any athlete in this sport, is carefully planned and requires a lot of dedication and sacrifice. They also think all I ever eat are salads. BIG MISTAKE! Jason, anyone who knows me will tell you that I can put away some food!

Q: What is the biggest misconception about women who train and compete or the one thing you wish people understood?
A: Classic. That our physiques are not natural. I mean to his own (or her own). But on any given day of the year, I can say with confidence that only thing on me that’s NOT natural is the color of my hair! I remember right before I went to a natural show, someone asking me if I was worried, since I was being drug tested. My response? Worried about WHAT? Or the guys in the gym whispering to each other as I am knocking out a pyramid that peaked at 1200+ lbs on the leg press. My physique and strength is a direct result of me working with a damn good trainer that gives me results and makes sure I remain injury-free and nothing else.

Q: What is the best and worst part of competing?
A: The best part: SHOWTIME! The beautiful suit, getting all dolled up, and strutting your stuff! And then of course everything you eat after finals.
The worst: The post competition blues you get when you miss the body that was on stage.

Q: Do you have any favorite competitors or any you admire?
A: Of course. I admire anyone that puts themselves through the training process and walks across a stage, but if I had to pick one, then I will pull from my personal experiences. Christine Anderson is not only my posing coach, but also a wonderful friend and one of my mentors. I watch her train, pose, run a business, maintain a family, tune the world out….then absolutely command the stage. She has taught me that competing is an individual experience that you should do for YOU, and to not worry about who is showing up or how they look, or the size of your class because those are not variables that you can control.

Q: Do you have a favorite cheat food?
A: CUPCAKES. Sugar is my weakness. Period.

Q: DO you think it s becoming more common to see women in the gym training and lifting as hard as men?
A: Absolutely. I love seeing fellow female athletes going all out in the gym. In fact, they don’t necessarily have to compete as their reason for training with intent. And it’s not about proving a point, or trying to out-do our male counterparts in the weight room. I think women are embracing their own beauty, strength, and empowerment, whatever that may mean to them individually.

Q: Outside of training, any other hobbies or activities you enjoy?
A: I love to cook! Well I always have enjoyed it, but when I started competing of course I wasn’t able to eat the things I liked to make. I asked my trainer for my macronutrient requirements and started playing with food & recipes a few years ago. I also started doing meal preps for some of our clients that either don’t have time to cook or aren’t sure how to put together meal plans.

Q: Can you describe a typical day in the life of Adriana Sanchez.
A: Is there such a thing? LOL Jason, a “typical” day in my life is like tuning in to your favorite reality show! There are friends, villains, sidekicks, dramatic twists, elimination ceremonies, undefined characters, eating contests, song & dance numbers….you name it! Oh yeah, and somewhere in between I find the time to love, live, laugh, and lift.

Q: What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
A: I love baby food.

Q: Describe Adriana Sanchez in five words.
A: Proud, Strong, Creative, Dramatic, Warm Hearted

Q: Any set plans for the near future as far as competing or anything else?
A: Absolutely. I have always said I will continue to compete until I get tired of it.
July 30 – NPC USA’s in Las Vegas(This is on my birthday!)
November – NPC Nationals in Ft. Lauderdale
There might be a warm-up show…just depend on how I’m looking and feeling :-)

Q: Anything you want to take this opportunity to plug or promote?
A: Sure! My trainer Artis Stewart can be reached for personal training, nutrition coaching, contest prep, etc at and I can be reached for the same, as well as group exercise classes and group training opportunities through my “Adriana Sanchez – Personal Training and Fitness Services” Facebook page or at


Q: Are you looking for sponsors? If so how can they reach you and what are they getting in Adriana Sanchez the athlete and competitor?
A: Absolutely. As an athlete you will get someone who is dedicated to her projects and isn’t afraid of a hard work. As a competitor you will get someone with good sportsmanship that is driven and motivated to always top her last performance. I can be reached by email at

Q: Adriana , again, I thank you for taking the time to do this. Any last words before you go?
A: Jason, it has been my pleasure. I just want to thank you and everyone who has been and continues to promote and support the sport. To all competitors, I wish you the best of luck and a fantastic 2011 season.

Beth Polisson Interview

After my first interview with Beth Polisson, she immediately became a favorite. I was so impressed. I was impressed with the physique obviously, but with the person to. I am not alone in that. Often when I do interviews or round tables and ask about other competitors, Beth's name is brought up as much as anyone. Very rarely do I address potential sponsors in these, but if you are a company that sponsors athletes, there are few who I would recommend as much as Beth. She is everything you would want. Great physique, very beautiful, respected, knowledgeable, and a love for the sport. Beth has not even scratched the surface as far as what she can and will do in this sport.






Q: Beth thanks for taking the time to do another interview.
A: Thanks for including me again. It's always fun and definitely an honor to do these interviews!

Q: For those not familiar can you tell a little about yourself.
A: I am 28 and live in Durham, NC. I am a top 5 national level figure competitor, fitness model, and personal trainer. When I'm not in the gym or in the kitchen, I am a project manager at a pharmaceutical company in the Research Triangle area of North Carolina. I spend my spare time watching football (go Pats!!) with my boyfriend, Jim, and my dog, Trotter. I also enjoy really trashy reality TV (ahem, Jersey Shore). Sometimes, my brain needs a break :)

Q: Can you update people on whats been going on with you since our last interview, on and off the stage.
A: I haven't competed since our last interview. I really wanted to take a very long off season. When you do show after show after show and spend most of your time in a caloric deficit, you cannot make mass gains. It's just not possible. It's very important to me to have a competitive physique, and in order to have that, I really need to pack on some mass in my upper body. Many competitors struggle with a long off season, and I will admit, I've had my struggles. It is difficult to watch your body get bigger and to watch the scale go up, and to even have to buy bigger clothes because of the gains you're making. I don't know a single competitor who hasn't struggled with this at some point in her competitive career. But, I always have to remind myself that these things mean bigger, rounder shoulders, tighter, higher glutes, and wider lats on stage. Flipping that switch in your brain isn't easy, and I don't have any magic advice for anyone struggling with it - it's just a state of mind that you have to reach. Be happy with your physique, both off season and on. We're healthy - we're not eating cheeseburgers 24/7 and getting fat. I sometimes need to remind myself of that.

Q: Have you been watching any of the competitions lately? Anyone impress you?
A: Of course!! I am really happy that Erin Stern won the O. I love her physique. She's very athletic, and that really shows on stage. She's a perfect combo of beauty, athleticism, and sex appeal. She is definitely my fave. Shala Singer and Jackie Hoppe looked great at the Kentucky Pro, and a big congrats to them on their 1st pro show. I saw both of these girls at Jr. Nats last year and really am happy that they were both able to go pro. Much deserved.


Q: What are your thoughts on the new Physique division?
A: I like it - I think it'll give those who are too muscular for figure, but not muscular enough for BB a good arena in which to compete. Nothing wrong with getting more women into competing. Those who were too small for figure have found their niche with bikini, so why not go in the other direction? Makes sense to me. I do NOT want it to phase out FBB, though. Those women put in far too much time and dedication to their sport to be phased out by this new division, and I sincerely hope that does not happen.

Q: Have you noticed any one part of your physique that you really improved on in 2010?
A: My shoulders and back have definitely improved since I started my off season. I'm almost where I want to be :) Almost!!

Q: Heading to 2011, what do you want to improve on?
A: I want to stay with my current level of leanness and continue to add mass to my upper body. I practice posing every day, and continue to strive to be poised on stage. I'm just on autopilot at this point!

Q: Looking back on 2010. On a scale of 1-10 how would yo are the year for yourself competing wise?
A: An 8. I had a lot of success this year. I was a tad disappointed in my physique at Jr. USAs, and I'm not sure I would've done as well if more girls had competed. Some have told me that's selling myself short, and maybe so - but that's just how I felt about my physique. That was a very hard prep for me, mostly because of the manner in which I prepped. However, I learned from it - I learned what works for me and what DOESN'T work for me, and that's very important. That will allow me to really focus on prepping the right way in 2011.

Q: As far as the fitness industry, are there any changes you would like to see made?
A: I think shows are going to be RIDICULOUSLY long this year due to the new divisions with both the men and the women. I think breaking the shows into 2 days would be easier on both competitors and spectators. As it is, being backstage for 6+ hrs for both pre-judging and the night shows is really painful sometimes, especially on low carbs :)

Q: Depending on who you talk to, some think women in the industry are getting more respect, then others say less. Which side do you fall on?
A: Eh.......this is a tough question for me, because I'd like to say more, but there's been some negative publicity out there. There have been some TV shows that have painted female competitors in a not so positive light. Now, I know that a certain amount of editing is done to make these stories sensational, but the average viewer does not. It creates an unfair bias and the shows I've seen have made female competitors look crazy, obsessed, and a little messed up in the head. So, what I see at my competitions has been nothing but positive, but what's been shown on TV is not so positive.


Q: Do you get a lot of people asking for diet and training advice? If so, whats the most typical type of question?
A: All the time. I do have clients, but some are way more interested in the "quick fix." Often times I get asked, "Can I lose 5-10lbs without eating healthy like you?" "Can't I just do more cardio?" "I don't want to lift, because it's going to make me bulky. Can I just eat 500 cals a day and lose weight?" Some of the misconceptions out there REALLY amaze me. I mean, really. Everyone wants the easy way out. There is no easy way out, so stop asking! Work hard in the gym, eat right, and the weight will come off, but it's not going to happen overnight.

Q: Can you give people an idea of what your typical training routine and diet are like.
A: I lift 4-5 times a week, depending on what my program looks like - it changes every 2-3 months or so. Last month I had a back and shoulders specialization routine, but right now my split looks like this:
Mon: legs
Tues: back/chest
Weds: teach spin (30 mins of spinning, 30 mins of sculpting)
Thurs: shoulders
Fri: bis/tris
Sat: back/chest
Sun: teach spin (30 mins of spinning, 30 mins of sculpting).
No cardio other than when I teach spin. It's unnecessary, esp in the off season.


My diet is awesome. I love my food, I'm never starving, and I truly enjoy it. I have 2 different meal plans - 1for lifting days, 1 for off days. My diet on lifting days looks like this:
Meal 1: 2 eggs, 3 egg whites, 40g oats, 1 serving of fruit (to equal 15g carbs - 120g blueberries, usually)
Meal 2: 100g chicken, 200g sweet potatoes, 3 fish oil tabs
Meal 3: 115g tilapia, 130g brown rice, 14g almonds
Meal 4: 100g top sirloin, 200g russet potatoes
Meal 5 (post workout meal): 1 scoop protein powder, ANY low fat carb to = 50g carbs and does not exceed 240 cals. It can be anything that fits into those parameters.
Meal 6: 170g fat free Greek yogurt, 30g natural PB, 1/2 scoop whey protein

Q: What is your favorite healthy meal and favorite cheat meal?
A: Favorite healthy meal is my last meal of the day: 170g Greek yogurt, 30g natural peanut butter, 1/2 scoop protein powder. I use a chocolate banana flavor and then add 2g sugar free/fat free chocolate jello mix and stir it all together. Jim always looks at me sideways when I start to lick the bowl. Favorite cheat food: pizza, Sweet 16 doughnuts, or the chocolate peppermint shake from Chik-Fil-A. Asking me to pick between those 3 is impossible.


Q: What body part do you most enjoy training and why?
A: Shoulders. I loooooove me some shoulders. I don't know any competitor who doesn't want nice, big, round coconut shoulders on stage. I also think they give the physique a very balanced look.

Q: Which do you least enjoy training and why?
A: Frigging legs. I hate leg day with a passion. You KNOW that the next day is going to suck. Ugh.

Q: When it comes time for off season, how long do you consider your off season, and how far over contest weight do you like to go?
A: It depends. I'm about 20lbs over right now, but I'm quite lean. I am also 10lbs heavier right now than I was at this time last year, so I will be competing at a higher weight in 2011 - so I'm not sure how far over I am - probably closer to 10-12 than 20. For me, a long off season is necessary to make gains. If I was in a more maintenance phase, things might be different, but since I'm still new to this sport, I need to gain. I can see myself in the future not needing to bulk so much and to be in a more maintenance type of routine, but for right now, I need to be gaining as much mass as possible.

Q: Do you prefer training alone or with a partner and why?
A: I really prefer alone, although I like a spotter on shoulder day so I can go heavier. I don't like to be distracted and talk while I'm working out - I'm in the gym for a reason, and it's not to be social or to give someone diet and training advice.

Q: Usually I ask what the biggest misconception about competitors is. This time I will ask whats the biggest misconception about you?
A: That I'm unhealthy and starve myself before shows. That couldn't be farther from the truth. When I first started lifting, my blood pressure was about 140/90 - pre-hypertensive. My father has been on BP meds since he was 25, so I'm genetically predisposed to hypertension. However, this past summer, my BP was 113/72. The proof is in the pudding - #s don't lie. My prep for shows is not like most - I prep with high intensity circuits and interval work, not with hours of steady state cardio. In order to keep the required intensity, I'm actually quite well-fed during prep. I eat probably double what most competitors eat in the weeks leading up to a show.

Q: What would you say is your biggest achievement so far in the fitness industry?
A: Placing top 5 at Jr. USAs. Again, it was a small class, but top 5 is top 5 - I'll take it!

Q: What is a typical day like for you?
A: 6:30am - wake up, make coffee and breakfast, play with the dog, check email
8:30am - go to work
5:30pm - leave work and head to the gym
7-730pm - head home for post workout meal, pay bills, clean house, do laundry, play with dog again, food prep, etc
11pm - bed!

Q: Finish this sentence. In five years I will be____.
A: Happily married, maybe with a kid, starting a successful personal training and contest prep business with my friend, perhaps with some pro status :)

Q: Anything else you want to plug or promote?
A: Not at the moment!

Q: Looking for sponsors? If so how can they reach you and what do they get in sponsoring you as an athlete?
A: Yes, I'm still looking. I have been corresponding with a few, but all of them are maxed out in athletes in NC :( I'd still love to be sponsored and can be reached at I'd be a great athlete to sponsor for a few reasons. a) I am a fabulous cook and really love experimenting with cooking clean foods for contest prep. I cook with protein powder all the time, and have nearly perfected a pumpkin protein pancake recipe. It seriously tastes exactly like pancakes. And I know everyone says that about theirs, but I actually fooled my parents when they were in NC for Thanksgiving. They had no clue they were healthy pancakes. Same with my Ezekiel Bread french toast. b) I used to travel about 80-90% for my job. If there is 1 person on this planet who can give great travel advice, it's me! I actually traveled when I was 2 weeks out from a show and managed just fine. I have it down to a science.


Q: Beth, again, thanks so much for doing this. Any last words before you go?
A: Thanks for including me again, Jason!! I want to say good luck to all the gals competing in 2011, and I hope to see some of you on the stage soon!

Susan Thorn Interview

I have gotten to know Susan Thorn a little bit. One thing I love about her is she is so supportive of others and always encouraging. She lives the fitness lifestyle and likes to inspire and encourage others to live it as well. And of course thee is Susan the competitor, someone who always looks incredible and always improving on stage. The fitness industry needs more Susan Thorn's in it.






Q: First, Susan, I want to thank you for taking the time to do this.

Q: Can you start out by telling a little about yourself.
A: Sure. I am blessed to have an incredible family! We are so the norm with everyday challenges. Ron and I will be celebrating 25 years together next month, we have 4 kids between us, all grown and gone, and are grandparents 5 time over. I live in a very rural area on 20 acres, 2 miles out on what essentially is an old logging road, so getting to work and working out can be a bit challenging at times. But the beauty of it makes it all worthwhile.

Q: Before the gym were you an especially athletic person? Play any sports or anything?
A: I was never very athletic. I remember ads a senior in high school I joined the gymnastics team, I begged the coach to let me compete. She finally agreed to let me do the exhibition for balance beam. I was shaking so hard I fell off like 10 times, it seemed to go on forever. I am sure my parents were cringing!

Q: What initially led you into the gym?
A: What initially led me to the gym was the weight I had gained during my first pregnancy-54 pounds of it! On a 5 foot 1 inch frame that is a lot.

Q: Was training something you picked up fairly easy? How long before you started to see results?
A: I think it was easy for me-once I picked up my first weight. It was overcoming my lack of confidence in being able to pick up that first weight the 5 years before that was the hard part. I really did see the results pretty quick, which initially is normal for everyone, it is sticking to it with the plateaus that is hard.


Q: What made you decide to compete for the first time?
A: Honestly? I was 40 years old and had some very big personal struggles in my life. I had failed miserably in several areas, they were areas that I had all my life used to define who I was. I had no idea who I was, where I was going, or any confidence or desire to figure it out. I began running as a form of dealing with some major depression. It was during that time I picked up Karen Andes “Book of Women’s Strength Training”. That was in 1999. There was a picture of Monica Brant in there. After reading the book and looking at Monica I had decided that before I was 50 I would compete. I truly thought I was safe and 50 would never come! LOL

Q: Is competing something your family and friends supported?
A: Not initially, of course initially I never told anyone, I really didn’t know how I was going to get there, I was so far away from competition material. - It was a very personal goal. It was not until I gained some confidence in myself-and that was a lot of work- that I had the confidence to tell others. I think I probably shared it with others at the gym before I told my family. And now- there is not a girl in the world that has more support from family and friends than I. It is truly incredible!

Q: Was competing what you expected or did anything surprise you about it?
A: It way surprised me. When I first decided to do it. I think it was about the trophy. I just wanted to win and be good at something. Like is said, I was never athletic, I was always the last one to be picked for the baseball team (and I still am, lol) but I realized that lifting weights and transforming myself was my own competition and something I was capable of. The journey to competing became more about discovering my personal best.

Q: Can you share your contest history.
A: This will be my third year competing and I have competed six times in the last two-three contest per year. I have competed in the natural body building realm as well as non-natural. I have placed all over the board from first on down. I always tell everyone though, where you place is not so significant really, sometimes its all about who shows up! Sometimes you just have to show up!

Q: As far as body parts, what do you feel is your best one?
A: Honestly I just don’t know- I always think it is about the whole package. I love working on and improving my arms and shoulders, that is what I would like to make my best this year.

Q: Do you have a part you most like to train?
A: My most favorite is my legs and glutes, also my most challenging and stubborn. Maybe that why I like it, I love a challenge!

Q: What is your normal training routine and diet like and how do you alter it for contest prep ?
A: My training routine always changes, not only to prevent your body from adapting and reaching a stagnant point but for several reasons. I tend to get bored and off track very easy. Once that happens I lose my motivation, I need to switch things up. Right now I am lucky to be training with Jen Hendershott so my training and diet come from her. I just do what I am told. I need structure and someone to be accountable to or I can easily lose my way.


Q: When someone sees your physique or hears you compete for the first time, what is the most common reaction? More positive or negative?
A: It cracks me up, it is always positive, always. And the most common reaction is that they want to do it too, or they want to get in shape, so I love that! The conversation that ensues is always motivating for me.

Q: When they see it that first time, what is the one question or comment you are most sick of hearing ?
A: The comment I am most hear most often, that I am sick of, is the same one I used to say inside myself, so I totally get it. People often say that “I wish I could” or “Its different for you, you’re lucky”. To them I say “Nonsense!”. I work my butt off to get here, it is not easy. I used to say the same things to others so I totally understand, I get how it is to be in that place that you do not believe it is there for you, those are the people I like to work with because I was there and I really do get it!

Q: What is the biggest misconception about women who train and compete or the one thing you wish people understood?
A: The biggest misconception, or the reason some women tell me they won’t lift a weight is that they do not want to get big muscles. That could not be further from the truth, it just won’t happen. I lift like crazy to TRY to get bigger muscles. It just doesn’t happen by natural means, the work your glutes off means. If you eat right, and lift hard you will have muscles to die for!


Q: What is the best and worst part of training for you?
A: The worst part is trying to fit it all in. I can never seem to find the time to devote to the kind of training I would love, and the best part is the same. I love the weekly challenge of organizing and prioritizing my life, my self, and my workouts. The sense of accomplishment I get at the end of the week, and the frustrations of not getting it done, are what drive me to the next.

Q: Do you have any favorite competitors or any you admire?
A: Jen Hendershott and Ava Cowan. They both exemplify, live, and work in the manner that I strive to. In all they do you can see the devotion to the promotion of fitness in mind, body, and heart. They are both incredible givers and inspire so many. To them is about way more than the competing.

Q: Do you have a favorite cheat food?
A: I don’t know if I could limit it to a cheat food, for me it’s a whole cheat meal! LOL When I cheat I do my best to choose wisely, Jen taught me that. I love to cook and eat gourmet food, Italian food is my favorite, and it always includes pasta, any yummy sauce, red, béchamel, pesto……. bread, a great glass of red wine.

Q: If another woman told you she wanted to start training, what is the one piece of advice you would most want to give her?
A: Have a plan! And a plan that is based on your needs, abilities, time constraints, and resources. Otherwise you will suffer defeat and quit early on. You have to understand it is about the process, your own process, and the journey. You have to have a “why”, and it has to be your “why”, not anybody else’s. You have to start there-to be successful it has to be individualized to your need, your journey. Any direction forward and you are a winner! Whatever that direction is for you.

Q: Do you think it is becoming more common to see women in the gym training as hard as men?
A: Seriously??? Sorry guys, but I think as women we tend to work harder, because we have to. And I am probably speaking to the women over 35 because that’s what I know. In order to achieve the same results we have to work harder, our metabolism has slowed down, most of us have had kids and are still trying to improve upon the not so great changes we experienced during those years. I do think that being a women in the gym has never been less intimidating- the guys certainly are supporting it. You guys have to do better at the cardio!


Q: Outside of training, any other hobbies or activities you enjoy?
A: Well like I said, I LOVE to cook. Cooking is my favorite hobby- so especially during competition season I miss that. I love to read and do research in the areas of health care and would love to get more involved at the legislative level, at least at the state level. That is an area I would love to pursue more.

Q: Can you describe a typical day in the life of Susan Thorn.
A: The fact of where I live right now dictates most of it. I typically am up at 3 or 4 am. All the years of the ranch and horses dictated that. My work commute was always long so to try to get a workout in before demanded it. Now I am on the road so much that I don’t think I have a typical day anymore. Ron and I after much heartfelt discussion put our house on the market last month and are looking to make some changes this year, simplify a bit. We will be saddened to leave this incredible life we have had here but we are excited as well.

Q: Describe Susan Thorn in five words.
A: LOL ….Difficult, Inflexible, Demanding, Grateful, Happy, and Incredibly blessed. That’s 6 huh?

Q: What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
A: I think for as gabby as I am, I really am a very private person, very quiet- when I go to the gym I usually plug in the ipod and get to work.

Q: Any set plans for the near future as far as competing or anything else?
A: For the next 8 months I will not compete. I think this might be my last year, I am working very hard with Jen on eating healthy, training hard, improving upon the foundation I currently have. I am very excited. I have completed my Health and Wellness coaching certificate through Insight Zone, I am nearing completion of my trainers certificate through ISSA, I have launched my website that has a women’s health focus, there are so many things I am so excited! When August comes around and with Gods blessing I will be ready to bring the best me I can to the stage, and look to doing three shows this year.

Q: Anything you want to take this opportunity to plug or promote?
A: Well, in general Women’s health in mind, body, heart, and soul. I am seeking to do that by the same direction as my mentors, by leading by example, inspiring and empowering others. My new website will be the portal to do that as it matures. I hope to work with women that are facing emotional challenges, chronic weight, or disease issues. As a nurse of 28 years, a mom, a competitor, and fitness nut I know anything can be overcome!

Q: Are you looking for sponsors? If so how can they reach you and what are they getting in Susan Thorn the athlete and competitor?
A: If ever the opportunity arose for a sponsor, especially in the area of promoting women in an older age group such as me I would be so honored, it would be a way to give back the blessings I have experienced in my own journey! They could reach me through my website


Q: Susan, again, I thank you for taking the time to do this. Any last words before you go?
A: Again Jason, I think it is incredible that you do this, I know that it inspires others. Thank you for providing a forum for me to share and promote fitness and health in mind, body, heart, and soul!