I started my journey with a broken heart. In an attempt to overcome my pain and self-esteem issues, I wanted to challenge myself, so I began competing in bikini competitions. Other than knowing it would get me in the best shape of my life, I knew nothing about what I was getting myself into! To be successful, training is a full-time commitment both mentally and physically. I soon discovered it would challenge and break me even more than my past relationship. I was forced to dig even deeper levels emotionally and mentally, but I have gained a level of self-confidence and self-love I never had before. I spent an intense 15 weeks preparing for the first show in 2017. I hadn’t the faintest idea what I was really getting myself into. It was the exact challenge I needed mentally, physically and emotionally. For the first time in my life, I felt like I was doing something for myself. Through the process, I learned to love myself at a deeper level than I ever thought possible. Competing unknowingly prepared me for my career in modelling to follow. After 5 years, I have competed in four Fitness Bikini Competitions (becoming Miss Bikini Southern California Fitness 2019), shot with a multitude of photographers and have found myself moving into acting. Most importantly, reaching another goal of mine when I was fortunate enough to grace the cover of MAXIM New Zealand!
Competing has better prepared me for my life journey. It takes a lot of work, dedication, discipline, and consistency, and this all translates into succeeding in life on a daily basis. It takes a special kind of person who prepares for a competition! The mental challenges in training are much more challenging than the physical, but I overcame them. I hope to inspire others that they, too, can achieve their life goals and be rewarded in many unexpected ways through fitness training.
Age:
38
City/Country:
Los Angeles/ USA
Occupation?
Model, Actress and DJ
Share your unique training methods
I usually start with cardio and move to weight training. I like to switch off from time to time, but my training is pretty consistent.
Training Plan:
Each day, I focus on one muscle group and never deviate. Training is all about consistency. One thing I never skip is cardio.
Nutritional Plan:
During the week, I stick with a strict diet of lean meats, and when I’m travelling, or it’s the weekend, I like to eat whatever I want to stay mentally sane. This helps to keep me well-balanced and not get tired of my dietary restrictions during the week.
Supplement Plan:
I take vitamins and probiotics to maintain a healthy balance of nutrients.
Do you prefer to take and recommend all-natural (no sugar, no artificial colours/flavours/sweeteners) supplements or supplements with artificial flavours and sweeteners? And Why?
I stick to no-sugar drinks or, when necessary, only use natural sweeteners like Stevia. If I am ever craving sugar, I stick to fruits.
Please describe the importance of mental health
Mental wellness is very important to me. I have suffered from severe depression after losing two family members (most recently the loss of my brother, Christian). I struggled with depression, but I continue to overcome it by acknowledging and feeling my emotions. It is important to accept and work through these emotions rather than bottling them up and not dealing with them. Journaling, yoga, therapy and my friends and family have been a big help.
If you could ask Status Fitness Magazine Editor-in-Chief Rodney Jang any industry question, what would that be?
How did he start his journey in the fitness community? What is his purpose and intentions with the fitness magazine? What’s his favourite workout? How has his journey been so far?
Status Fitness Magazine runs model searches across North America, including the largest one at the Arnold Classic, for the Status cover. As part of the Status family, you will receive a special participation invite. How excited are you about this opportunity?
I love competing as it truly saved me from the dark path I was headed down. For me, it’s an honour to be able to compete again and show my hard work and inspire others. I’m grateful for the opportunity and where it can take me. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for the opportunity to share my story and fitness journey.
What does the future hold?
At the moment, I’m getting ready for Los Angeles Fashion Week, which is another one of my dreams. In addition, I hope to continue to share my love of music and bring others happiness through DJing.
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned?
Life is a journey, and sometimes you just have to roll with it. The ups and downs, the highs and lows are all part of it, and we must be open to experience both to fully learn what the universe and God have in store for us. Work hard and stay humble. Always stay true to your authentic self. Be kind and treat others with respect and love.
What does success look like for you?
Success to me is being joyful and content by following my passions and dreams. Like many of us who have fallen victim to alternative vices to numb the pain of heartache, breakups ups and death, I found a great light out of the darkness through fitness, modelling, acting and music. These things have truly saved my life, and I hope to give back and do the same for others.
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Cover Photo: NPC News Online
