Interview with Gabrielle Tongol

What are most people doing at 19 years of age? Looking into college? Deciding what to do with their lives after high school? Well...how about developing one of the most eye-catching physiques in all of figure? That's exactly what Gabrielle Tongol in Canada is doing right now. Competing in the CBFF (where you can become IFBB pro eligible in Canada), Gabrielle has made quite the name for herself in the CBFF figure division at a very early age. It's downright scary to think about what she can do in the fitness industry when it's all said and done. 

Gabrielle was gracious enough to do an interview with us. Hope you enjoy it! (All photos belong to their original owners. Please support them.)

FitGems Nation: Thank you for wanting to be interviewed by us! Let's start off with telling us a little bit about yourself (name/occupation/how long you've been in the fitness industry, etc.)

Gabrielle Tongol: My name is Gabrielle Tongol, I am a 19 year old CBBF Nationally Qualified Figure Competitor. I started my fitness journey when I was 17 years old and have now competed in 3 shows since.

Aside from competing I am a full time student currently working towards getting my Business Administration Diploma, Majoring in Human Resources, Part-Time Private Nurse Assistant as well as a Part-Time Private Personal Trainer. Despite a busy work and school schedule fitness has become a huge part of my life. I am able to incorporate it into my hectic schedule and I wouldn’t want it any other way. Health and fitness is something that I take full pride and joy in and pour my heart and soul into and continuously promote and do what I can to help, motivate and support others while maintaining a positive, joyful and exciting mindset along the way.

Editor's Note: WOW!!!  So much accomplished at an early age! And your excuses are?!?! 

 

FG: How did you get involved in the fitness industry in the first place?

GT: I started off by following workout plans and diets off of bodybuilding.com then as my goal for my 18th birthday that year I decided to try and do my first fitness competition which was on October 12th, 2013 just 2 weeks after I turned 18. Despite the lack of focus, drive, determination and complications I encountered with my previous coach and health issues I faced (binge eating disorder), at that show, I placed 8th out 16 girls. Unsatisfied with my placing, however proud of simply making it onto that stage at only 18 years old, I was determined to take time off and work on my weak points (overall conditioning and muscle depth) and promised myself that I would not step on stage again until I was 110% ready mentally and physically. I trained hard and smart for a year and a bit and decided that I was ready to take things to the next level. Late January 2015 I reached out to my current coach, Darren Mehling with Freak Fitness and we worked together for 19 weeks to bring the best package possible for ABBA Southern Alberta Bodybuilding Championships on June 13, 2015. I was able to lose 20 pounds of fat and far surpassed my Muscle Beach 2013 package. At that show I won first place in Figure A Short class along with taking the Figure Overall title and which then qualified to compete at the Donna & Brian Logue Provincial Bodybuilding Championships two weeks later. At Provincials I was able to come in slightly better than my Southerns package and again, win first place in my Figure A class which has now qualified me for life to compete against all of Canada which now makes me a CBBF Nationally Qualified Figure Competitor. I plan on competing next July 2016 in hopes of winning my IFBB Pro Card, which would make me the youngest IFBB PRO in Canada.

 

FG: What do you enjoy most about competing and/or modeling?

GT: What I enjoy the most about competing is the challenges I am able to overcome and the endless possibilities there are out there that one can achieve with the right mindset. It’s truly a beautiful thing to see what we are able to do with our bodies when we take full control over our mind.

 

FG: Which do you feel is your greatest strength while training: cardio or weight-training?

GT: Weight-training for sure! I’ve always enjoyed training hard, heavy and SMART over cardio. I’ve never been much of a cardio person, however I do enjoy a great sweat session nonetheless!!

 

FG:What is the hardest thing you have had to deal with when it comes to the fitness industry?

GT: The hardest thing I’ve had to deal with when it comes to the fitness industry would be body image.

 

It’s definitely mentally challenging to see yourself go from the best shape in your life to a “normal” shape. By all means, it is NOT healthy to maintain a stage ready physique however there is body fat % that is maintainable, healthy and enough to add lean muscle mass but still feel confident in your own skin. I feel that the first few weeks/months into off-season can be way harder than the 16+ weeks of prepping for a show. Reason for this is because we no longer have that “x” amount of weeks until show day and don’t have that worry in the back of our mind that “if I eat this donut it may or may not affect my physique for my show” therefore, it’s harder to say no to the temptations around us. For someone like me who is very goal-oriented, I’ve learnt to set mini goals for me weekly and monthly. By doing so, this has helped me stay on track with my fitness goals and still enjoy my off-season.

 

FG: What division do you compete in, and what ís the best thing in your opinion about competing in that division?

GT: I compete in the figure division. The one thing that I admire the most about my division is the symmetry and balanced proportions that figure entails.

 

FG: If it was up to you, what would be one thing you would want to add or take away from your division, if anything?

GT: The one thing I would want to add to my division, specifically in Canadian competitions, is more time for our personal presentations. We work so hard for months and it would be nice to have more than 30 seconds being solo on that stage.

 

FG: With the rise of social media (Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Periscope, Instagram, etc,), how important do you feel it is for people in the fitness industry to participate in it?

GT: I feel that it is incredibly important for us who are in the fitness industry to participate in social media to help inspire, motivate and educate everyone as much as we possibly can. It’s a great way people to share different outlooks, methods and personal experiences.

 

FG: Who (living or dead) do you look up to for inspiration, whether they are part of the fitness industry or not?

GT: There are numerous individuals who I look up to for inspiration – there is not one specific person but rather everyone who has supported me and encouraged my since day 1 and who I’ve met along the way that inspire me to keep doing what I’m doing.

 

FG: I know everyone wants to be the first "them" (as it should be), but is there any competitor (past or present) that you look at and say, "Okay...that's what I'm aiming for"?

GT: Nicole Wilkins. Her overall package is breathtaking. Her physique, her beauty and her stage presence is incredible.

 

FG: If you weren't part of the fitness industry, what would you be doing now?

GT: If I weren’t apart of the fitness industry right now I’d probably be either doing nothing but sleeping, eating, shopping, working and being lazy at home. Before getting into the fitness industry I was never into ANY sort of sport or hobby – very thankful that I found the fitness industry and fell in love with it.

 

FG: What (if anything) would you change about the fitness industry as a whole (NOT just about the division you compete in)?

GT: Absolutely nothing. I love everything about it and it only continues to get better in my opinion.

 

FG: After your competition days are completed, how do you plan on give back to the fitness industry?

GT: Although that time is very far away for me, I plan on giving back by continuing my personal training services, volunteering at as many shows as I can, giving advice based on personal experience and continue to inspire, motive and educate as many people as possible through social media, in person and possibly seminars? It’s a long way until I reach that point however from what I can think of right now that would be my plan on giving back!

 

FG: Bottom line, what is YOUR ultimate goal in the fitness industry, the one thing you HAVE to do before you call it a career?

GT: I have no ultimate goal in the fitness industry that will indicate that it is time for me to call it a career. Once I lose that excitement and stop enjoying everything that competing and prepping for shows offer that is when I’ll hang up the clear heels and bedazzled suits.

 

FG: Any closing words for your fans and supporters?

GT: I’d like to thank FitGems Nation for the opportunity to do this interview, my boyfriend, family, friends, Freak Fitness (Darren, Christina and FreakFam), fans and supporters on social media for the endless amount of support, love, care, encouragement and motivation to get to where I am today.

 

FG: Again, thank you so much for doing this interview with us! For those that want to keep up on your future competitions and other plans, how can fans contact you? (Facebook fan page, Twitter, Instagram, email, website, blog, other social media outlet, etc.) Also, if there's anything you want to plug in, you are more than welcome to do so.

GT: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gabriellatfitness

Instagram: @gabrielletfitness

If you aren't on the Gabrielle Tongol fanwagon, now's the time to do it. 2016 could be the year she makes history, and with what's she's done so far, it's almost a safe bet that she will do just that. We're rooting for ya, Gabrielle!! 

Interview with Tina Nguyen

Over the years there have been several competitors that make people speechless. In an industry filled with amazing physiques, to have yours be the one that people can't get enough of speaks volumes. In 2014, no one embodied that more than Tina Nguyen. Her physique has been called one of the most eye-catching figure bodies in quite some time, and everyone is beginning to notice that very quickly. She won her pro card at her Nationals debut (2014 NPC Nationals) and was voted by the fans as the 2014 FitGems Nation Breakout Amateur Figure Competitor of the Year by a landslide. If her debut year is any indication, Tina is going to be someone people are going to be talking about for years to come. And with her just turning 23 and now an IFBB pro, her future is brighter than ever. We could see her as the face of the figure division sooner rather than later.

Tina was gracious enough for us to conduct an interview with her. (All photos belong to their original owners. Please support them.)

FitGems Nation: First off, tell us a little bit about yourself.

Tina Nguyen: My name is Tina Nguyen. I’m a 23 years old recently turned pro in Nov 2014 in figure. I currently reside in Dallas, Texas. Besides competing I’m a fun, out going individual who is also a full time student and a real estate business professional. 

FG: How did you get involved in the fitness industry in the first place?

TN: I went to the gym the first time because I was getting ready for a pageant in Texas. However I never did the pageant but I continued to train and now an IFBB pro!:) 

FG: What do you enjoy most about competing?

TN: The process of getting ready for a show is rewarding and challenging. It’s a huge commitment and it also helps me to be disciplined. I love training and constantly reminding myself I have to give my 101% and be the best. And I love the feeling of being on stage showcase the hard work that you have put through to accomplish!

FG: Which do you feel is your greatest strength when training: cardio or weight-training?

TN: Both, I love cardio which gives me a boost before I lift. I do both equally in and off season 

FG: What is the hardest thing you have had to deal with when it comes to competing?

TN: Well both times I got ready for my nationals show and the show I won over all I was in school and worked at the same time. I can say time management was a task to do every day. You have to remember when  to eat, how much to eat, how much training you need to do in order to ALSO keep up with your home work- work at my job. It was difficult but it was well worth it. 

FG: What division do you compete in, and what’s the best thing in your opinion about competing in that division?

TN: Figure is what I compete in. To me, there is nothing more beautiful than a woman who is feminine and also shows strength and muscular at the same time. Kind of like comic book super heroes and that’s what figure is to me. 

Editor's Note: That's EXACTLY how I feel about the figure division...Great minds think alike! :) 

FG: If it was up to you, what would be one thing you would want to add or take away from your division?

TN: I wouldn't really change a thing. I like the muscular toned bodies, not too shredded but just lean and dry enough. I’m also a fan of small waist and a sick V taper on a woman and shapely muscular legs and calves, don’t forget the shoulders also ;) 

FG: With the rise of social media (Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, etc,), how important do you feel it is for competitors to participate in it?

TN: Social media has changed so much for the past 5 years. It used to be the site where people/ our friends and family connect and chit chat. Now it seems like everyone wants to be popular. Sometimes people who I have never met or know send me messages and tell me how much of an impact by posting on social media pages had changed their life. And that they want to live a healthier life and have a positive outlook more so on everything. It is amazing to be inspired and to also inspire people. I encourage ALL and every single person who has started their journey to keep track of their progress! 

FG: Who (living or dead) do you look up to for inspiration, whether they are part of the fitness industry or not?

TN: The first person I would say is my mother. She is one strong minded and a business woman. She never takes no for an answer. She always finds solutions to everything and always strives to be the best. She was/is my inspiration. 

FG: I know everyone wants to be the first "them" (as it should be), but is there any competitor (past or present) that you look at and say, "Okay...that's what I'm aiming for"? 

TN: The first woman who inspired me to be better in this industry is Khanh Nguyen. I remember one day I saw a pic of her on a face book page and I instantly went “Omg, I want her abs!” I never had abs, and that was my goal was to start out. I didn’t even think about competing and just wanted to start training for myself. Now the physique I absolutely adore is Juliana Malacarne, Miss Physique Olympia. I don’t want to compete in physique and I love figure, but her work ethic and her full muscle bellies are absolutely amazing!

FG: 11. If you weren’t part of the fitness industry, what would you be doing now?

TN: Well would probably be the same thing I’m also doing: A business professional and a student. I’m currently in school to finish my BSN and hopefully get a license to work in hospitals and clinics in Dallas. 

FG: What (if anything) would you change about the fitness industry?

TN: The fitness industry has been going on for years and it’s meant to inspire people to be healthy and get fit, no matter what their personal goal is. Anything can have an improvement  

FG: After your competition days are completed, what do you plan to do to give back to the industry?

TN: I want to continue working on myself to be the best I can be and reach my full potential. I also want to help people achieve their fitness goal no matter where they are or why they are getting in shape. 

FG: Any closing words for your fans and supporters?

TN: I want to thank my supporters who have been following my journey since day one. You all inspire me in so many ways more than you know. I also want to thank my coach and also my bf Ambrose Middleton. He has been with me since day 1, supporting me and helping me to be the best I can be. Also my friends who understand the journey I’ve picked and accommodate lunch with me when I’m dieting!  And also every one I’ve had the pleasure to meet and speak with in the industry. 

FG: Again, thank you so much for doing this interview with us! For those that want to keep up on your future competitions and other plans, how can fans contact you? (Facebook fan page, Twitter, Instagram, email, website, blog, other social media outlet, etc.) Also, if there's anything you want to plug in, you are more than welcome to do so.

TN: You can follow me on Facebook at facebook.com/TinaTNguyen13

Instagram @tinang13

I want to thank Christopher Ray at FitGems Nation for giving me the opportunity to have this interview. Thank you so much for your support :) much love xo 

Actually, thank YOU Tina for allowing us to interview you. We see nothing but great things in her future. Congrats on an amazing start. The best is yet to come for this rising figure star! 

Celebrate "Monica Brant Week" Next Week on FitGems Nation!

This time of the year is always big, as we are closer and closer to the Olympia, the biggest show of the year for this sport. This year, in addition to what is looking to be one of the most competitive Olympias in years, a legend steps on stage for the final time on a show that's widely gaining a lot of popularity. On August 23-24, the WBFF (World Beauty Fitness & Fashion) Finals will take place in Las Vegas, and Monica Brant, who many look at as arguably the top physique competitor of all time, will step on stage for the final time in her illustrious career.

Monica Brant in 2010 WBFF Worlds. 

In honor of her swan song and her career, FitGems Nation is proud to announce that we will be dedicating all of next week to Monica Brant, beginning on Monday and ending on Saturday. Photos, videos, and testimonials from fellow competitors and fans will be posted throughout the entire FitGems network (our main website, Facebook, Twitter, possibly Youtube and even the revamped MySpace). If you have any photos or videos of Monica that you would like to share with us, or if you have any words that you like to share about your experience with competing with Monica or want to talk about how she has influenced you as a person, please email us at admin@fitgemsnation.net, placing Monica Brant Week in the subject line. Also, for those using Facebook and Twitter, we will be using the hashtag #MonicaBrantWeek , and we encourage you to use this all week long next week if you can.

Hope you join us in celebrating the career of one of the best competitors to ever step on stage!

Interview with IFPA Pro Amy Lescher

Amy Lescher is an IFPA competitor from Chesterfield, Missouri. She recently won her IFPA Open & 35+ Pro Cards and will be making her pro-debut sometime next year. Amy was kind enough to conduct this interview with us. BTW, IFPA stands for International Federation of Physique Athletes, and it's a natural bodybuilding organization.

Photos provided by Amy herself.

FitGems Nation: First off, tell us a little bit about yourself.
Amy Lescher: I am a 37 year old, wife and mother of 2 beautiful girls Sophie (9) and Stevie (2).  I am an IFPA Open and 35+ Pro.  I just earned my pro-cards and will be making my pro-debut in 2013.  I am a personal trainer and Pilates instructor and enjoy helping people achieve health and wellness in everyday of their life.

FitGems: How did you get involved in the fitness industry in the first place?
Amy: I grew up an athlete, including playing soccer on the collegiate level.  I have been a fitness instructor since I was 18 years old.  I have always loved the look of muscular, healthy looking women.

FitGems: What do you enjoy most about competing?
Amy: The desire to achieve things I never thought possible.  With the right diet, training, attitude and coaching, you can do wonders with your physique.

FitGems: Which do you feel is your greatest strength when training: cardio or weight-training?
Amy: I love lifting weights.  It gives me a sense of strength and accomplishment.

FitGems: What division do you compete in and what’s the best thing about competing in that division?
Amy: I compete in the Figure division.  The best thing about Figure is that you can have muscle, but still be feminine.

FitGems: If it was up to you, what would be one thing you would want to add in the division or take away from your division?
Amy: I would add the T-walk to be included in the scoring.  I feel that is part of the presentation and girls work so hard to perfect it, it should be counted.

FitGems: With the rise of social media (Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, etc,), how important do you feel it is for competitors to participate in it?
Amy: I think it is crucial to participate in social media if you want to touch as many people as possible and inspire others.

FitGems: Who (living or dead) do you look up to for inspiration, whether they are part of the fitness industry or not?
Amy: My fitness inspiration is Alex Ellis, IFPA Pro and Erin Stern, IFBB pro.  Both of these women exuded passion and health every single day.  They are both top athletes in there respective federations.  I have the honor and privilege to know and be coached by Alex personally and will be forever changed for the good, thanks to her.
My non-fitness inspiration…Gosh there are so many strong women in my life… but I would say my sister.  She is a special education teacher and gives herself daily to children with developmental and behavioral disorders.  She does it with honor and grace.  She is loving, kind and strong.

FitGems: If you weren’t part of the fitness industry, what would you be doing now?
Amy: There is no question; I will always be a part of the fitness industry!

FitGems: What (if anything) would you change about the fitness industry?
Amy: I can’t think of anything at this point.

FitGems: After competition, what do you plan to do to give back to the industry?
Amy: I like to give my knowledge and passion for exercise and Pilates to people on a daily basis. I feel inspiration and giving back are full circle…you get back  what you put out. I stay in touch with the most cutting edge fitness/nutrition experts and will always refer to others when something is out of my scope of knowledge and expertise.

FitGems: Any closing words for your fans and supporters?
Amy: I want to thank all my fans for their support.  I hope I can contribute inspiration and drive to your everyday life.  Remember…”The only place success comes before work is in the dictionary”-Vince Lombardi  Work hard, every day matters!

FitGems: How can fans contact you if they want to keep up with your career? (Facebook fan page, Twitter, email, website, blog, other social media outlet, etc.)
Amy: They can find me on Facebook under : IFPA PRO Amy Lescher

Again, we thank Amy for taking the time to conduct an interview with us, and we wish her best of luck competing as an IFPA Pro!

Juliana Malacarne, IFBB Champion...FINALLY!

May 19, 2012
Tribecca Performing Arts Center
New York.

The day and place many female muscle fans claim that the IFBB "got it right".

Seven years of disappointment and despair meant nothing after one moment of triumph. On this day, the world would watch as a beautiful, muscular, feminine Brazilian competitor with a worldwide fan base that is just as big as (if not bigger than) the top-placed competitors in the world make her debut in a division that many pegged to be "tailor-made" for her. She would enter this show in the best she's looked since becoming an IFBB Pro. And unlike in the past...she was rewarded for it. Juliana Malacarne is the 2012 New York Pro Women's Physique Champion...and the fans (and many competitors) of the female muscle world rejoiced.

Photo credit: Muscular Development

While Juliana was a favorite to win by a good deal of people, let's not get it twisted that she was gonna win this thing easy. The line-up was STACKED with 28 other competitors, some of which we haven't heard from in quite some time. Some of the competitors included Dana Linn Bailey (the first women's physique pro), Debbie Barrable (formerly Leung, who has had twins prior to the New York Pro), Dayana Cadeau (former top bodybuilder), Marina Lopez (who has competed in every single pro women's physique event this year), and Jillian Reville (who, prior to this event, placed in the top three in her previous outings). There was no shortage of talent, so to beat them showed that Juliana was more than worth the hype and praise she's received from fans over the years.

While a great physique is needed to win a contest (the IFBB IS a physique federation after all), It's also about having that "it' factor. Something you can't develop in the gym, no matter how hard you try. You either have it or you don't. Juliana had "it" at the NY Pro. She is without a doubt the most muscular women's physique winner thus far, but like the other winners, she had that "it" factor that you just can't put into words. And as it's been preached over and over and over again...whoever presents the best package ON THAT DAY walks out the winner. It's hard to argue that point here when Juliana got a perfect score from EVERY JUDGE there. To do it on one of the biggest stages not named the Arnold or Olympia in the biggest women's physique line-up to date speaks volumes. Oh yeah...did I mentioned that one of those judges happened to be JIM MANION?! For those that don't know who he is, he is the chairman of the IFBB aka the head honco. Hmm...if THAT doesn't speak volumes, I don't know what does!

If this doesn't leave you speechless, do me a favor and check your pulse. (Photo credit: Muscular Development)

So...what does this mean for women's physique going forward with Juliana's win? Did we witness a game changer at the New York Pro? Every big sporting event has them: New England Patriots winning their first Super Bowl, Chris Paul and Blake Griffin joining the Los Angeles Clippers, CM Punk's infamous "pipebomb" speech on WWE. I can name more, but I think you get the point. There are still plenty more women's physique shows to go and we are not a full year into IFBB women's physique, but I have a feeling a statement was made. The standard (IMHO) will be set when the IFBB has Physique Olympia, which I hope will be in 2013. After this weekend, I have no doubt in my mind that Juliana will be part of that event. The question is now "Can Juliana have success in the IFBB?", it's now "How MUCH success will Juliana have?". At this point, the sky's the limit for her.

To Juliana Malacarne and her fans...you waited seven years for this moment. Take it in, drink it in, eat this up. If the New York Pro's any indication, there's plenty more where that came from.

Jenny Worth and Fitspacelive.com Present All-Collegiate Physique Event in October 2012

Hey there, college folks! You think you have the best body on campus? Who IS the best in the world...college world, that is? Jenny Worth and the Fitspacelive.com team want to find out. On October 19th and 20th, they will be putting on an all-collegiate physique event in Florida! Here's the official press release letter explaining more about it and how you can be a sponsor for it (and the benefits of being a sponsor).

Dear potential sponsor, 

We are proud to announce on October 19th and 20th 2012 we will be holding the 1st Annual NPC Fitspacelive.com/Jenny Worth All Collegiate Championships & Tallahassee Championships Bodybuilding-Fitness-Figure-Bikini and Men’s and Women’s Physique Show and Sports Expo! This event is sanctioned by the NPC Sanction # 11952 and will be a Level 4a open to the entire country for the collegiate divisions and only to Leon County and surrounding counties for the open division. 

This event will also be a qualifier for the 2013 Collegiate Nationals only , the top 3 from each class will qualify. It is through your sponsorship contributions that this show will grow in the coming years and successfully introduce the younger generation to the sport so that it can continue to grow. All Sponsorship contributions will go towards the hard costs incurred when putting on a show as well as directly into the scholarship fund. 

A scholarship donation will be presented to the school that the overall winners from each class attends. It will be noted on the website for the show that all scholarship donations were made possible through the generosity of our sponsors. Below you will find the different levels of sponsorships. 

Sponsorship Packages: 

The Red Shirt- $400 Includes Booth at Expo and HTML Banner on Show Website until the 2013 show 

Junior Varsity-$600 Includes Booth at Expo, Logo on Stage Banner, HTML Banner on Show Website until the 2013 show, Logo on T-shirt 

Varsity-$1000 Includes Booth at Expo, Logo on Stage Banner, HTML Banner on Show Website until the 2013 show, 4 months Ad space on Ftispacelive.com, product placement( supplement companies) Logo on T-shirt, Trophy Presenter 

Full Ride-$1500 Includes Booth at Expo, HTML Banner on Show Website until the 2013 show, 6 months Ad space on Ftispacelive.com, product placement in the store( supplement companies) Logo on T-shirt, Overall Trophy Presenter and Scholarship Check Presenter. 

We would like to take this opportunity to thank you ahead of time for your interest and generosity for this event. Without the younger generations in any sport there can be no sport. This event will assure the continued growth of the sport , by introducing younger competitors as well as first time competitors to a positive experience that will carry over in the years to come. 

Sincerely,
Jason Giardino: Founder Fitspacelive.com
IFBB Fitness Pro Jenny Worth: Co-Founder Fitspacelive.com

As more information is released, I will pass this along to you all. Until then, follow Jenny Worth on Facebook, as well as Fitspacelive on Facebook.

Exclusive Interview with Cheerleader Anna Watson

College bowls season is upon us, and many teams are getting ready for these special games. One of those teams is the Georgia Bulldogs, who will be playing in the Outback Bowl on January 2, 2012. Toward the end of the season (specifically during the Georgia/Kentucky game), a Georgia Bulldog turned some heads on the internet...but it wasn't a football player. It was a cheerleader by the name of Anna Watson. Her pictures gathered a pretty decent following among female muscle fans, hoping to see more of Anna in the near future. We appreciate Anna for taking time from her busy schedule (she is in college, after all) to do an exclusive interview with us.

Photo credit to the original owner. FitGems does not claim rights to this photo.

FitGems Nation: What is your main profession?
Anna Watson: I am a full time student at the University of Georgia. I also cheer for the dawgs and work at the Ramsey student center in the strength and conditioning department.

FitGems: How did you get into cheerleading?
Anna: I started cheering my sophomore year in high school after ten years of competitive gymnastics. I was burnt out on gymnastics but wanted to continue to tumble, so I decided to try cheerleading. Over the last five years I have learned a great deal about the sport and have a much greater respect for it and the athletes who participate in it.

FitGems: How did you get into the fitness industry in the first place?
Anna: I have always loved keeping myself busy and active, so I guess Ive really been a part of it my whole life! Exercise and the benefits it offers intrigue me and keep me coming back for more!

FitGems: While it seems that many cheerleaders these days wouldn’t be out of place in a fitness show, it seems you are far and away the most muscular female cheerleader that has emerged in quite some time. Do you consider yourself “America’s Fittest Cheerleader”?
Anna: Oh I doubt I am the fittest cheerleader in America, but I may have the biggest biceps among the girls!

FitGems: Photos were posted of you at the Georgia/Kentucky game on November 21, 2011, and in some sites, they were among the most viewed photos in those sites’ history. How do you feel about that?
Anna: I think it is hilarious that those pictures have gotten some attention on several websites. I am honored that people would post my picture on their site and think its exciting!

FitGems: I’m not kidding when I ask you the following question: Has anyone from the Georgia Bulldogs football team encouraged you to join them on the field? You seem like you could hold your own out there! LOL. :)
Anna: No, I have not had any offers! I definitely get some stares on the sidelines though! Maybe if the team hadn’t picked up some steam in the second half of the season, they would have started recruiting cheerleaders!

FitGems: In all seriousness, though, the mainstream public (as a whole) is (unfortunately) very subjective to what they like and don’t like, and one of those things they still can’t accept as of yet happens to be a woman with muscles. How do you deal with criticism from some who think you are too muscular?
Anna: I haven’t really faced too much criticism, but I try not to let it get me down. I love to workout and the muscles that come along! I think that women can be muscular and still feminine. Strong shoulders, buns of steel, and washboard abs are striking attributes that I’m pretty sure any woman wouldn’t mind having! I am confident in who I am and proud of my muscles!

FitGems: Have you competed yet? If so, what organization and division was it in?
Anna: My first show was the NPC Georgia this past July. I competed in the tall figure division.

FitGems: Do you see physique competitions being something you might do in the future?
Anna: I would actually like to get into the fitness side of it. I think my gymnastics and cheer background would allow me to make that transition well.

FitGems: Who are you favorite people in the fitness industry?
Anna: Erin Stern is my favorite figure competitor. I think she has a beautiful physique that is the epitome of femininity and strength.

FitGems: How have you been a positive influence in the University of Georgia?
Anna: I have only been there a short while, but I hope that I have made a positive impact. I consider myself a joyful and considerate person, so I hope that others have noticed and been inspired and encouraged by that.

FitGems: Have you encourage your fellow cheerleaders to follow your lead to living healthier lifestyles?
Anna: I am not sure if they have made any changes, but they have commented on my healthy eating and dedication to working out. I hope that I have influenced them to be healthy and love themselves!

FitGems: What advice do you give to those who want to pursue the fitness industry, especially women who are under the assumption that having muscles is manly (when there’s PLENTY of proof that it isn’t the case)?
Anna: I would encourage others to just be true to themselves. I don’t think that muscles or a great physique define who people are. It is important to know who you are inside and let your light shine wherever you go! Also, make sure that working out and exercise remain something they enjoy and don’t turn into feeling like a job.

FitGems: What are your future plans after college, and will it involved the fitness industry in some way, shape, or form?
Anna: I plan on graduating from the University of Georgia with a degree in exercise and sports science and then pursuing a career in the strength and conditioning industry. I would love to train athletes and give them the tools they need to be the best athletes they can be. I also plan on getting certified as a personal trainer.

FitGems: Any final words you want to share to the FitGems audience?
Anna: Keep working hard and remember that you are fearfully and wonderfully made! Psalm 139:14 God Bless and happy training!

Again, we thank Anna for doing this interview with us, and we wish her the best of luck as she continues to pursuit her dreams and completes her education. Best of luck to you, Anna!

Sharing a TenSpot with...Amanda Hatfield

This year saw the return of one of the best built and conditioned fitness competitors the NPC has ever had, Amanda Hatfield. Wait...you never heard of her? If you were a fan back around 2004-2005, you might have heard of the name Amanda Swallow. Same person, but a bit older and wiser, and clearly from her return, better than ever. Still possessing her trademark arms, she's back and looks to be heading towards a pro card, either in fitness...or quite possibly, women's physique.

Photo credit: Krivs Studio

FitGems Nation: Let’s kick this off by telling us a bit about yourself.
Amanda Hatfield: I am the General Manager of PowerHouse Gym in Berea, Ohio. I recently started a fitness team, which has really taken off and keeping me super busy. In fact some days I put in about 16 hours! I love what I do and I have come across a great group of young women!

FitGems: When did you first start competing?
Amanda: My very first competition was when I was 10 years old. I had made our local gymnastics team after only 2 years of training. My first fitness competition was in Phoenix, Arizona in April of 2004.

FitGems: What is your strategy when you head to the gym? Is it mostly weight-training, mostly cardio, a balanced mixture of the two, or something else?
Amanda: It really depends on what on want to accomplish. In the past couple of years my focus was trying to improve on my shape. I love to train heavy and push myself to lift more weight. But being in fitness cardio is such a big part of training, so you have to keep a balance. This off season I am concentrating on improving my routine. I have been going back to my roots of gymnastics training.

FitGems: At first glance, has anyone mistaken you for being in something OTHER than physique competitions (MMA fighter, boxer, pro wrestler, track and field runner, softball player, etc?)
Amanda: People usually have me pegged as a gymnast. I always get asked the same two questions, “Do you work out?” Or “What do you do for your arms?” I usually reply, “Its Hydroxy Cut.”…LOL! Then I confess and tell the truth, followed by business card.

FitGems: With women’s physique and bikini now part of the NPC and IFBB, do you feel that there’s now a division for every female who wants to compete?
Amanda: Absolutely!

FitGems: You recently returned to competition this year, ALMOST winning your pro card in fitness. What made you decide to return to competition?
Amanda: I wish I had never left. My career took a different turn. I was a platform artist for Aquage Hair Products. I did a lot of traveling and long hours, which made it impossible to compete. Recently my boyfriend, Joe Mazzone and I purchased the PowerHouse Gym in Berea, Ohio.

FitGems: To many people, your biceps are among the best in fitness. (Okay, that wasn't a question, but a statement. LOL.)
Amanda: That’s funny, because I think I am the only one who doesn’t like them. In fact I don’t even train arms anymore. I would trade them in on a good pair of shoulders any day! (Interesting....)

FitGems: If you weren’t a part of the female physique world whatsoever, what would you be doing right now as your profession?
Amanda: I would probably still be slaving behind a stylist chair!

FitGems: What (if anything) would you change about any of the IFBB female divisions?
Amanda: I would prefer fitness be judged more on conditioning. I love Oksana Grishina. I think she should be taking first. The comments are always that she is too lean. I believe most women prefer her physique. I also feel to be physically capable to perform the routine that she brings to the competition you have to be in that awesome condition.

FitGems: What advice do you have for anyone who wants to compete?
Amanda: My advice is always to compete for the right reasons. Through my years of coaching gymnastics and now training fitness, figure and bikini competitors, I have learned you have to do it because you love it. I mean love all of it, even leg day! I make sure I enjoy every training session! I am trying to pass this on to my girls.

For more on Amanda, you can find her on Facebook under the name Amanda Hatfield. 

Sharing a TenSpot with...Diane Whetstone

Diane was among the many competitors who competed at the Masters Nationals in figure a few weeks back, and she was among the oldest in the competition (at age 60!!). That didn't matter though, as she placed very well in her class. This interview took place after the Masters Nationals competition.

This photo was provided by Diane herself from a gym shoot, taken by photographer Mark Mason. You can view more of his work at http://www.markmasonmedia.com.

FitGems Nation: Let’s kick this off by telling us a bit about yourself.
Diane Whetstone: I am a Washington State girl born in the tiny town of Sunnyside. It was a farm town 1 mile square and only 3000 people with quite a few being my family members. I lived there until age 14 my family moved to Kennewick where I graduated high school. I moved to Los Angeles for 8 years but moved back home to Kennewick. I now live near Olympia and work for the State of Washington as a Data Warehouse Administrator and supervisor. I have three passions, fitness, computer technology and my husband. I feel lucky to be able to be involved with the things I love.

FitGems: When did you first start competing?
Diane: I have been competing in muscle sports since 1994 with bodybuilding competitions. In 1999 I switched to power lifting. I was able to achieve a few state and world records. When NPC created a new division called Figure I knew this was something I would want to try. In 2004 I placed 3rd at age 54 at the Washington State Championships in the Over 35 division. In 2005 I had knee surgery so I had to take some time off from training. After a few years and a lot of hard work I’m now back competing. This has been my passion for a long time and I hope to be able to do this for many more years.

FitGems: What is your strategy when you head to the gym? Is it mostly weight-training, mostly cardio, a balanced mixture of the two, or something else?
Diane: I would probably call it a balanced mixture but I really prefer weight-training. My strategy is to do whatever my trainer and husband instructs me to do. At the gym is probably the only place I will let him tell me what to do so I think he takes advantage of it. But seriously, he is a good trainer and he knows his stuff. That is how we met because I hired him as my personal trainer in 1993 to help me loose 40 lbs. He is the one of the best trainers around and the one who introduced me to bodybuilding and competing.

FitGems: At first glance, has anyone mistaken you for being in something OTHER than physique competitions (MMA fighter, boxer, pro wrestler, track and field runner, etc?)
Diane: Not really. I just get mistaken for someone younger than I am. I love it!!!

FitGems: With women’s physique and bikini now part of the NPC and IFBB, do you feel that there’s now a division for every female who wants to compete?
Diane: I love the fact that they added physique. With the extremes that female bodybuilding has taken, it is nice to have a venue for those who don’t wish to take it to that level. Please don’t get me wrong. I love the bodybuilding/strong woman look but it is not for everyone and not everyone can achieve it.
At the other end of the spectrum is bikini. It is great of the young women who don’t want to get that hard lean look. But I have some personal issues with it. They now have a Masters Over 35 division. Please don’t have an Over 50 division! You won’t see me in it. Come on, do you really want to see your grandmother doing those poses?

FitGems: You recently competed in the Masters Nationals and placed 6th in the Over 55 class. How did it feel to be the oldest competitor on the show and do so well in it?
Diane: At the contest I thought I might be the oldest but after some checking around I found that Kay Friend, my fellow Washington State competitor was actually older than myself. She placed 5th ahead of me.
In April of this year I competed in the 2011 Emerald Cup and also placed 6th out of 13 Over 50 competitors. There were 3 of us who were over 60.
Still, being one of the few competitors over 60 I feel is an achievement in itself. Next my goal is to break the 6th place barrier! Top 5 here I come!!!

FitGems: If you weren’t a part of the female physique world whatsoever, what would you be doing right now as your profession?
Diane: As I answered to a previous question I love working with computers. I’ve been in the IT field since 1970. I’ve been a keypunch operator, computer operator, computer programmer, web designer, security analyst, database administrator and now a data warehouse administrator. I love learning new languages, software and hardware. When I’m not working at my job or getting ready for a contest, I’m maintaining the websites for our health club company. My husband is a co-owner of the FitStop24 in Olympia and Yelm, Washington. I also maintain the website for the NPC Northwest Championships the FitStop24 promotes each November.

FitGems: What (if anything) would you change about any of the IFBB female divisions?
Diane: Of course I would like to see more Masters divisions. According to the 2010 census the largest population group was female between the ages of 45 and 65. This comprised 26% of the USA population. Soon this baby-boomer generation will be 55 to 75. I think both the IFBB and the NPC need to recognize this and understand there is whole generation they are ignoring.

FitGems: Which competitor (past or present) you look up to the most for your inspiration?
Diane: There are many. My first idol was Diana Dennis because of her beautiful posing routines. Now my idols are Ernestine Shepard, world’s oldest bodybuilder and Dee Lazard who competed in the Masters Nationals placing 1st place in the Over 60 bodybuilding division. They are both actively working as personal trainers. They look amazing. I just hope I can do for Masters Figure competition what they have done for Masters Female Bodybuilding.

FitGems: What advice do you have for anyone who wants to compete?
Diane: • First, go watch a show and learn about the sport. It’s not as easy as it looks.
• Start by entering a small local show. It will save you money on hotel and travel costs and you might even bring home a trophy!
• Find someone to coach you. You can easily get lost in the details of contest prep.
I formed a team for our gym’s competitors. We are here for each other. The experienced competitors are teaching the newbies. We have posing classes and after contest parties! We have tons of fun.




For more on Diane, visit her Facebook fan page at http://www.facebook.com/dianewhetstone, her Bodybuilding.com site (where you can view her contest prep pictures at) at http://bodyspace.bodybuilding.com/damedi, and you can email her via Facebook at damediane@facebook.com. 


Once again, thank you Diane for conducting this interview with us!

Interview with Tracey MacDonald

Tracey MacDonald is one of the top competitors in Canada, although she now resides in California. A long-time supporter of FitGems Nation, she was gracious enough to take time out of her busy schedule to do an interview with FitGems. Tracey is currently prepping for the CBFF Nationals in about six weeks.

Photo credit: Muscular Develpment

FitGems Nation: If you could, may you tell us a little bit about yourself?
Tracey MacDonald: I'm 39 years old. Live in California, and a Canadian citizen. Ive been competing since 2000, and am currently getting ready for my 18th show (I think!!) (NOTE: Since the completing of this interview, she competed in the the CBBF Natural and placed 4TH in short figure and 3 weeks later did the Atlantics (Eastern Canada) and won masters, short figure, and the overall title in figure)


FitGems: What was the moment that made you decide that, “I’m going to compete”?
Tracey: I can't remember. I was 102 pounds and I was sitting in the audience at my first show, still trying to convince my friend who helped me prepare, we should go home!! I won my first fitness contest much to my dismay and was hooked ever since!

FitGems: Who inspired you to compete?
Tracey: Kelly Ryan…

FitGems: What is your approach when you train? More focus on weight-training, cardio, etc?
Tracey: I cross train, hitting each body part 1x a week, usually 5 days a week and then when contest season comes around, I incorporate cardio drills into my daily routine as well.

FitGems: Have people mistaken you for something else due to your physique, such as a MMA fighter, wrestler, boxer, runner, etc?
Tracey: no not really.

FitGems: What do you do when you DON’T compete (as in, do you have a job or hobby besides fitness competitions)?
Tracey: I part time personal train. I teach seasonal boot camps here in my town from spring thru fall. I am a retired junior high special education school teacher. I have a masters degree in mild/moderate disabilities.

FitGems: You’ve competed for a while, but what contest did you think was the best you ever looked (as your best is yet to come…)?
Tracey: I really liked how I looked my 2nd year at figure nationals in Canada, although I placed 3rd…

FitGems: Not including yourself, who do you think had or has THE ideal muscular female look?
Tracey: I like lots of people, of course, Monica comes to mind, esp in her transition to the WBFF at her first contest there. I also love Julie Palmer- she is always in shape 365…. Another is Myriam Capes, we competed together at our first nationals and we kind of bonded there- she was amazing then, and she has gone on to be more amazing every contest.

FitGems: You’ve competed in Canada and the U.S., where the looks are different. Is it just me, or does it seem like muscle is a bit more accepted in Canada then in the United States, in terms of the federation and judges and not the fans (as the fans seem to like the more muscular look on fitness/figure competitors)?
Tracey: Yes, I'd agree… although it can very from class to class and from year to year. I cant seem to figure Canadian judging out. They say look at the overall winner from the year before, Ive come in similar to that look and did terrible in my last contest in 09.

FitGems: You have competed in women’s bodybuilding, fitness, and figure. May you give us your opinion on the divisions?
Tracey: Fitness is awesome, if I had the skill set and back for it, Id be doing that. Figure Is my better choice for the above mentioned reasons. I did try bodybuilding, but after a year of building and “trying” it, I didn’t like the look FOR ME and I didn’t enjoy the stage experience. I really do like the glitz, glamour and more feminine look of the figure and fitness girls. (I hated being barefoot on stage!!)

FitGems: I heard that the bodybuilding contest you did, despite doing well in it, would be your last time to compete in women’s bodybuilding. May you explain to us why do decided “never again” when it comes to women’s bodybuilding?
Tracey: Think I answered that above. It was too extreme for me, I cant put on the size I'd need to be competitive on a national level. I don’t have a perfectly symmetrical body (I have a severe pinched nerve in my upper back that has altered my upper trap development and I ve always had a problem building the sweep on my left leg in comparison to my right). I also just didn’t like the social stigma that went along with the “bodybuilding” look- I was always being asked why I was “trying” to look like a man, being asked to arm wrestle, I felt very self conscious with the extra size on my short frame. I totally appreciate it on others, but realized that it is simply just not for me!!

FitGems: The fitness numbers are pretty low, despite the talent being pretty good. As a former fitness competitor, what do you think needs to be done in order to get fitness back to a decent number again?
Tracey: I have NO idea… Fitness is a HARD sport. I have complete admiration for those girls. Having muddled through some routines myself, I can say, even the “poor” routines (as mine probably was…) are extremely hard. And I would say out of every category, fitness competitors work harder than them all!

FitGems: Bikini has taken off in a great way with big numbers, but there are still those that don’t see it as a legit division and have no place in NPC and IFBB whatsoever. Do you agree, and if not, how would you attempt to change their minds?
Tracey: People can think whatever they want. I do not agree with that, I think that at the professional level especially those girls are total athletes and I give them a lot of credit- every body has a body type, and I know I could never look like that and I could certainly not present myself like that on stage. They are sexy bombshells!! I say GO girls!!

FitGems: Along those lines, many people think the new softer look that’s being rewarded in figure is no different than the bikini division. Do you think figure and bikini are getting dangerously close to being unrecognizable?
Tracey: YES , after just attending my LAST local figure show, I left half way through the contest. Very disappointing in my opinion.

FitGems: As you know, the NPC/IFBB are opening a new division called women’s physique. What are your opinions on it, and what are your expectations of the new division?
Tracey: I think it will be a great division for people who are caught between being too muscular for figure and not a bodybuilder… (maybe like I had looked last year)- I personally decided not to pursue it because the Canadian federation has decided to deny us permission to compete at a national level at the North Americans.

FitGems: Will we see you compete in this new division this year, or sometime in the near future?
Tracey: Doubtful. I am 39 this year and have decided to play the figure game one more time and tentatively plan on hitting all three Canadian nationals in figure.

FitGems: Some people think that eventually women’s physique will replace women’s bodybuilding going forward. Do you see that happening, or do you see the division remain separate for the time being?
Tracey: You know, I think every category has a competitor. I don’t think one is going to overtake another, because there will always be “bodybuilders”, “bikini” models and “figure”… When someone is passionate about their training, which all competitors are, they aren’t going to quit because their category isn’t as popular as it used to be. There will always be bodybuilding.

FitGems: With women’s physique and bikini added to women’s bodybuilding, fitness, and figure, do you think every woman who wants to compete FINALLY has a division to their liking now?
Tracey: Absolutely. I think there is a stage for every athlete. (Much more than there was when I started… Figure hadn’t even been invented!! ) you either did fitness or bodybuilding!! I kinda laugh when I hear figure girls making fun of the bikini girls back stage at contests… Because I think back to when the first figure competitors came around.. Both the bodybuilders and fitness girls were laughing at them!!

FitGems: The World Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation (WBFF) has been picking up serious steam ever since Monica Brant joined their organization. Others are following her footsteps, it seems. Could we see you join the rankings?
Tracey: NO.

FitGems: What’s one thing that most people would be surprised to know about you?
Tracey: I am teased for being a “holly homemaker”. I love to cook, be at home, entertain friends, be creative and decorate.


FitGems: If you were not competing, what would you be doing right now?
Tracey: Maybe teaching. I complete to validate myself and what I do for my clients and myself. To me, it is completely a hobby; competing that is. I try to not take it too serious as far as how I place. I know a pro card, although the goal, will NOT change my life. I truly do it because I love the personal satisfaction and challenge of pushing myself. I have never even back when gotten into the whole self promotion thing, chasing magazine shoots or a name for myself. I show up, I try to be in shape and then I go home. To me what is really a passion of mine is teaching people how to be healthier, change their lives through physically being fit and healthy.

FitGems: How would you convince people to give female muscle competitions a shot?
Tracey: ???? (Guess to say, that means...no comment)

FitGems: What is the one thing you want people to remember you for when you’re gone?
Tracey: Honestly, I don’t think I am that memorable!! I want to be remembered as a consistent competitor, always bringing my A game.

FitGems: How can people contact you if they want to know your upcoming plans and/or sponsor you in the near future?
Tracey: My website, www.fit2aTworld.com

Again, we thank Tracey MacDonald for taking the time to conduct this interview with us. We at FitGems Nation want to wish Tracey best of luck in the rest of her competitions this year!

1st-Ever FitGems FitMom Week to Begin on Mothers Day

For three years, FitGems has held a FitMom contest to honor the fit mothers of this industry. Not only are these women getting ready for competitions, but they are also balancing a family and a job in the process. Getting ready for a competition is hard work enough, but to do that AND get your children through school AND provide for their daily needs?! THAT takes dedication worthy of the highest caliber, IMHO.

With that being said, FitGems Nation has decided that we are going to dedicate the main site, blog, and fan page to fit moms everywhere beginning on Mothers Day and going all week long. Yes, fit moms, from this Sunday, May 8th until Saturday, May 14th, FitGems Nation will be honoring fit mothers from over the globe with a week dedicated to you. I'll be posting a story on at least two competitors each day, possibly more depending on time. In addition to that, there will be a roundtable post with fit mothers, partnering up with Jason Adams of Promoting Real Women. Depending on participation, there could be photos, videos, and stories from fit moms discussing balancing the stage with their lives at home, workout tips, advice, etc. To any and all fit mothers out there, if you would like to be part of FitGems FitMom Week 2011, please email me at admin@fitgemsnation.net.

This is a celebration and dedication to all the fit mothers in this industry. Please help us make this a celebration to remember. Looking forward to hearing your ideas, and hope may of you participate in this celebration to fit mothers everywhere! :)

Sharing a TenSpot with...Julia Hubbard

Julia Hubbard is a top international figure competitor from the United Kingdom. Next weekend, she will take part in the British Bodybuilding Grand Prix and Expo and will be have a training session with the legendary Rich Gaspari at that same expo. Juila's a great person to know, inside and out.

Photo provided by Julia herself

FitGems Nation: Let’s kick this off by telling us a bit about yourself. When did you first start competing?
Julia Hubbard: I started competing in 2010, i did a local show last April to see if i liked competing and got the bug! I was so nervous about being on stage in a bikini, but once i was up there i loved it! I see it as a chance to show off the hard work i put in! 3 weeks after my first show, i was back onstage at at UKBFF (UKs IFBB)qualifier and came 2nd and got an invite for the UK Champs, i competed there in October for experience but i wasnt really ready for the big stage yet, i learned a lot about preperation though! A week later i decided to take part in the first qualifier for the 2011 UK Champs, The Hercules Show, and as its held only a week after the UK Champs, its a popular and high quality competition. I came 2nd again and got my invite to the UK Champs 2011, so now I have a whole year to put in some work and make the improvements i need to try and place highly at the UKBFF national champs!

FitGems: What is your strategy when you head to the gym? Is it mostly weight-training, mostly cardio, a balanced mixture of the two, or something else?
Julia: Well my background is in Sprints and Bobsleigh which are both speed / power sports, so i have always weight trained, i do a split routine training a seperate body part each session. I dont really go for traditional 'cardio' i prefer to do circuits and sprint training (which is basically HIIT) for my conditioning. Pre contest i keep the weight training the same and just add in an extra session of cardio and may do some lower intensity cardio, if im dieting and lack the energy for a high tempo session!

FitGems: Due to your muscularity, has anyone mistaken you for being in something OTHER than physique competitions (MMA fighter, boxer, pro wrestler, track and field runner, etc?)
Julia: I am actually also a Track competitor, I have started to compete in Masters Track and Field this year and am heading to Sacramento in July for the World Masters Track and Field Champs!

FitGems: With women’s physique and bikini now part of the NPC and IFBB, do you feel that there’s now a division for every female who wants to compete?
Julia: I think Physique, Figure and Bikini give us 3 clear classes so a woman can choose the look she would like to achieve. Bikini class is seen as more attainable for most women and will undoubtably get more girls into competing. In the UK we have only just introduced Bikini class and its already proving to be popular.

FitGems: Along those same lines, where do you personally see the direction of figure in the long haul? Do you think it will remain in a “soft” state where there are those that say that it’s dangerously close to drawing a line between figure and bikini, or do you see it going back to a somewhat harder look, like when Davana Medina was queen of figure during its birth?
Julia: I would like to see figure keep its softer look, more muscular and with lower bodyfat than the bikini girls, but not the level of muscularity and bodyfat as the physique girls have. It needs to be somewhere in the middle, but a clear class of its own. Maybe a maximum height to weight ratio could be introduced, to limit how muscular the figure girls can achieve would help prevent the class 'outgrowing' itself. Feminine and athletic!

FitGems: If you weren’t a part of the female physique world, what would you be doing right now as your profession?
Julia: Im a personal trainer, so id still be involved in the fitness world. Im passionate about health, fitness and sports, so i will always be involved in some way!

FitGems: What (if anything) would you change about any of the IFBB female divisions?
Julia: We have 3 clear divisions to suit whatever look you want to achieve!

FitGems: Which competitor (past or present) you look up to the most for your inspiration?
Julia: Monica Brant, she has had (and still has) such a distinctive career in competing and fitness modeling, she is proving that age is not a limiting factor and is a fantastic role model. Balancing a competition, modeling and fitness career with style! She is definately the female competitor that has inspired me the most!

FitGems: What are your future plans heading into 2011 and beyond, and where do you see your career after you’re done competing?
Julia: At the moment I have two main goals for 2011.
The UKBFF UK Championships in October is my main goal and i intend to compete at the Hercules comp the week after again, as it was such a fun competition last year!
My second goal is to win a medal at the World Masters Track and Field Championships in July.
Beyond 2011, my goal is to compete internationally in Figure competitions and medal at the World Indoor Track champs in 2012.
I am currently involved in preparing the GB Bobsleigh Youth Team as they train for the Winter Youth Olympic Games. Once I am not competing any more, I would like to continue to work with athletes and help develop the next generation! and I would like to develop my Personal Training Business further too.

We like to once again thank Julia for taking this time to do an interview with us! If you would like to know more about Julia, check her out on Facebook at her personal profile or her Personal training / modeling / fitness fanpage. You can also follow her on twitter at http://twitter.com/juleshub1.