GINA QUINN…THE HEART OF A CHAMPION

by Lee Penman

Gina Quinn may be new to the Pro ranks but when she sets foot on stage in Hartford this weekend there will be no doubts whatsoever that she BELONGS in that line-up. She may have come to the sport later in life than some athletes but her grit and determination has seen her rise through the ranks at meteoric speed. Gina is indeed living proof that it’s never too late to find your passion and follow your dreams. So, as she prepares to do battle for the first time as a Pro, I thought it was a good time to take a look at what has been going on in Gina’s world these past few months….

The last time I interviewed you it was just after you had won your Pro Card, so what have you been up to since then? 

“After my win it was a case of straight back to the drawing board this isn’t a sport where you can afford to take too much time out. So, I took a few days off and then returned to the gym as usual.”

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Of course for a lot of people reading this, Pro status is still a distant dream. Has it changed anything about the way you approach this, your first contest as a Pro? For example your mindset going into it etc?

“My diet and training over the past 5 years has taken me far……so why change a good thing.  My goal has always been to get a little better each year.  I feel I have done that and continue to be motivated by my progress.  The mindset is simple….there are things I can control and things I cannot control.  I stay focused on what I can control….my diet and training.  Winning the overall as a light weight and earning a Pro card doesn’t happen often.  I am still thrilled now 1 year later.  But the reality is I will be one of the smallest girls on the stage as there are no weight classes at the Pro level.  This is something I have no control over and spend no energy worrying about.  My focus is on bringing my best conditioning and improving my posing each time.”

So how has your training been going in general this year and what areas have you been focusing your attention on? 

“It has been a good year.  I feel I have gotten stronger and have put more size on my upper body.  Symmetry is key.  For me, bringing out my lats will help to make my waist look smaller.  The proof is in the pictures and I hoping that is what they will reveal this year.”

What training tactics have you been employing to bring your lats up?

“They say that imitation is the greatest form of flattery.  I looked at one of Iris Kyle’s training videos and she does pull-ups as a warm up before every upper body workout.  I don’t think anyone would argue that that is a great exercise for the lats and, if it’s good enough for Iris, it’s good enough for me!”

As we discovered before, you came into the sport fairly late in life, any regrets that you didn’t make the move sooner? 

“You always hear that you reach muscle maturity in your forties.   For those who have been training 20 years….that is true. I didn’t step into the gym until I was forty…so I can’t help but wonder how my body would look today if I started training in my twenties.  But things happen for a reason.  Although the reason is not always clear – or may take a lifetime to understand. I am very happy to be on this journey and see it as an evolving lifestyle.”

How do your kids feel about having a Pro Bodybuilder as a mom? Do they get a lot of questions from the other kids at school? 

“To my kids I am just their mother trying to get them to eat healthy foods that they don’t like.  I think they appreciate that I am different from their friend’s mothers….but they don’t want me to stand out too much.  My oldest son’s friends are curious about how much I can bench press.  But what I think is the funniest is when he tells me I scare the shit out of his friends!”

When it comes to the sport of women’s bodybuilding itself, do you think it will stay strong?

”I mean there are some people who would say it is fading. There has been a lot of talk about that this year.  I would hate to see it go away.  I don’t think the interest in women’s bodybuilding is any less today than it ever has been.  I think a lot of people would be disappointed to see it go.  I’m hoping the number of women turning out to compete this year speaks for itself and keeps it alive.”

Turning our attention to contest prep….how far out from this show did you begin the dreaded contest diet?

“I usually start to get my head in the game around 20 weeks out.  That means no more picking on the kids pizza crust and having a taste of this and that ‘kid food’ that is always in the house.  It has been a long contest prep.  Slow in the beginning… so I have been eating mostly white fish, egg whites and veggies.”

What is the hardest thing for you to give up when it comes to putting that diet together? 

“It is not just one thing….its knowing I can’t have a taste of this or that. It’s not getting to have anything extra when I’m still hungry.  It is getting to the point when that mental toughness sets in that is the hardest…from there it’s a little easier.”

Could you give us an example of a typical day’s diet right now?

“I start every morning with a cup of egg whites and broccoli-slaw omelet.  Next meal is usually 4oz. of white fish and veggies.  I alternate those meals throughout the day for a total of 5 meals.”

How about your workouts, how have you switched those up? 

“I train 6 days a week….2 days on legs.  1 hour of cardio first thing in the morning.  Then I have breakfast and go to the gym. The day ends with another hour of cardio.  I always train as hard as I can throughout the year.”

In these final days before the show, what is going through your mind and what do you hope to achieve this time out? 

“I am very happy with my conditioning right now.  My focus is on posing and showing the results of my hard work.  What is most important to me is that I present myself as a Pro.”

Finally, with an eye on the future, Gina Quinn, five years from now….where do you see yourself?

“I hope to be doing the same thing I am right now…training hard, getting better and competing!”

Lee Penman

My name is Heather Payne or HP. I grew up a tom boy, most of my friends are men for that reason. I act like one of the guys, trucker mouth included. I am the epitomy of beauty and muscle. I am a VERY confident gym rat with a handful of good genetics and an extensive knowledge of how to manipulate the human body into what I want. I started training in 2001 to lose a little weight after quitting smoking, little did I know what was hiding underneath the layers. I started competing as a natural body builder in November of 2004, competing in 17 shows split between bodybuilding and figure. I’ve competed for USBF, NGA, NPC and now the WBFF. I AM a procrastinator, currently finishing my certification to become a personal trainer and going to beauty school in September. Just moved back from Indiana and ready to start my life over again to accomplish everything I set out to. I lost my baby girl, Ellie Mae, to cancer on January 18, 2009. She was my 4 year old Saint Bernard and my world, I miss her dearly. My family is very close. My parents have been married for 34 years. My only brother has been married to the sweetest woman for 4 years. They have a beautiful 3 year old daughter, who looks just like me, and just had a baby boy the day after their daughters birthday. I am fighter from birth and WILL give my all until there is nothing left in EVERY aspect of life. I’m always up for making new friends and creating oppurtunites. I’m as real as they get! If you are fake, lie or just a hater? Keep moving and don’t come back!

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The amazing Victoria Dominguez, A.K.A. Mistress Treasure, is quite a sight to behold. With measurements like 34C-28-28, this powerful physique is a classic of its own kind. This fascinating person is part fitness model, dominatrix, private wrestler, and so much more!

Click here for Victoria Dominguez Gallery

Ever hear the phrase “There are two sides to every story”? Well, the same can be said about me. There are two sides to my persona and when they are brought together, they create the unique combination of muscles and curves that is Victoria Dominguez who is a Model and N.P.C. National Bodybuilding competitor on one hand and on the hand…. You will have to continue this tour to find out.

My cultural background is as unique and dynamic as the woman you’re reading about who is an intoxicating mixture of Spanish and Caribbean. Born under the zodiac sign of Taurus, yes I’m always right and of course stubborn. A driven hustler as well as a workaholic, but never judge this book by its cover. Trust me. So, what does this aspiring Female Body Builder do to occupy her time when not preparing or competing for a show well I am a self employed fitness, internet model, hostess, exotic & burlesque dancer and when time permits I also so some personal training.

Often I am asked about likes, dislikes turn-on’s etc. If you truly want to find out then wait for the Barbara Walters Special when she gets around to interviewing me, or read my book. I thoroughly enjoy doing what I do and absolutely enjoy working out and competing. I can’t say for sure how things will play out in the future, but I do plan on making a mark in the body building community one step at a time…

Occupation: National Level NPC figure competitor, fitness model, Director of Personal Training for Health Fitness Corporation

A little about me:
I grew up as a very athletic girl, my family owns horses and I did horseback riding, softball, and swimming all prior to entering Jr High. My athleticism grew as I got older and I began playing field hockey and participating in track and field. Eventually my focus fell to track and I spent my high school years running for the track and cross country teams. Although I ran cross country my first year in college I began to feel my competitive running nature wane and I decided to leave the team. I began working out at my college gym and using the weights in effort to gain some muscle, at 5’6″ I weighed between 110 and 115. I didn’t know a lot about what I was doing, but through reading, talking to others, and observing people in the weight room I soon began to pick up on proper form and good technique.

At age 19 I joined the LA Fitness that had opened up near my school and there I met and trained with Mark Hazel, a national level bodybuilder who saw potential in my physique and encouraged me to enter my first show. My first show was Nabba, not NPC, and I was hooked. I quickly set plans in motion for my second show, this time NPC, where I placed second in my class.

I then took two years off from competing to finish school and concentrate on my modeling for a little, and now, with the help and sponsorship of FigureRX I am looking to make 2008 a wonderful year. I recently competed in the NPC Mountain Valley where I not only won my class (Figure Class C) AND qualified for nationals, but won the overall figure title as well.

My website launched (www.allifit.com) back in April, and I now offer an extensive membership area including my online training and nutrition journal, HUNDREDS of exclusive photos, video, and downloadable recipes and workout routines that I use in my own training. I also offer personal training services, phone consultations, and more. I currently write articles consistently for MuscleRx.com, and work on updating my backstage forum with FigureRX weekly. Shortly I will also be doing webcam with FigureRX and HerBicepsCam.

My short term goal is simply to make 2008 a big year at the national level for me. Ultimately my goal is to obtain my IFBB Pro Card in Figure and further myself as a fitness model. Ideally, I would also like to eventually open my own personal training company/gym which will cater to the needs of hardcore athletes. Weightlifting has been a savior in more ways then one in my own life and it is my goal to help others learn as much about working out and strength training as they can, so that in turn they will be able to experience the strength (both inner and outer) that comes from working hard in the gym and living a healthy lifestyle.

Education: College graduate Millersville University, ASEP certified athletic coach, ACE Personal Training,ACE Group Exercise
Birth date: April 22 1984, Allentown PA
Weight: 128-130 on season, 140-142 off season
Hair: chocolate with blonde
Eyes: blue
Years training: 5
Years competing: 3
Training Gym: Gold’s Gym Hershey PA
Athletic Background: track and field, cross country, triathlete
Strongest muscle groups: back, bicep, abs
Hobbies: working out and training, modeling, traveling, cooking, reading
Favorite Music: Ani Difranco
Pets: My Pomeranian, Molly

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Queen of Women’s Fitness and Bodybuilding.

Monica Brant Facebook   Monica Brant Twitter  Monica Brant YouTube

Monica Brant Wikipedia Monica Brant LinkedIn Monica Brant Website

“Monica Brant is the most important figure in the history of the women’s fitness movement!”
(Quoted by Jim Rosenthal, former Senior Writer- Weider Publications) 

“Monica Brant- Her name is as familiar to fitness as Joe Namath’s is to football!”
(Quoted by Contributing Writer, Lara McGlashan for Muscle & Fitness Magazine)

Since her first appearance as a cover girl for Muscle & Fitness Magazine in November 1994 Monica has gained momentum and remains at the top of the female fitness world, evident by her unprecedented national and international magazine exposure – over 100 covers and almost as many articles/interviews to this date with fans worldwide.

Taking a step back in time, Monica was raised accustomed to hard work. Growing up on a 20-acre ranch, where her mom was a professional horse trainer for 15 years, Monica was riding and showing horses of all disciplines since the age of 7. To this day, as a loved hobby, Monica still enjoys riding; (Equitation & Jumpers being her favorite); however, currently owns a Quarter Horse gelding named ‘Storm’.

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Throughout Jr High and High School, Monica was also a zealous athlete; as a sprinter, hurdler, long/triple jumper during track season and was on the volleyball team every year as well. To this day, one of her favorite and proudest moments in athletics happened during her sophomore year when she was a member of the Texas State Mile Relay Winning team, running her leg of a quarter mile with a time of 57.4 seconds!

After graduating from high school and attending college, Monica started her first steps towards the fitness stage by competing in local and statewide bikini contests and working part time as a San Antonio Corona & Budweiser girl.
During the four years entering contests winning a brand new Ford Mustang (car) was her top prize…not only providing a good amount of income from the winnings but also building her confidence for stage.

In 1991, with the help of a personal trainer, Monica started a weightlifting program and viewed the fitness publications for the first time where she noticed a photo of Marla Duncan winning a fitness competition. Marla’s beauty and physique inspired her to try the fitness competitions as well. Just a few months later, Monica competed and won her first show in Arizona!
Still based in TX and competing locally as an amateur for a few years Monica decided to make the move in 1995 to Los Angeles where, to her surprise, she was able to turn her ‘fitness hobby’ into a legitimate career. After her profitable move and earning her first pro win at the 1995 Jan Tana Pro Fitness Classic she was invited to compete in the first ever prestigious IFBB Fitness Olympia competition also in 1995.
Monica continued to compete in 1-3 Fitness competitions a year through 1999 with several invites to the IFBB Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Fitness International and IFBB Fitness Olympia including a Championship win at the 1998 Fitness Olympia that was held in Nice, France!

The ‘Olympia’ has been considered for years as the pinnacle of Professional bodybuilding, remembering Arnold Schwarzenegger made his mark in the history of bodybuilding by winning the Men’s IFBB Bodybuilding Olympia title.
Post IFBB Fitness Olympia 1999, she decided to retire from the Fitness stage; however, she continually booked magazine shoots for covers/features as well as made guest appearances worldwide (Germany, Italy, Austria, France, Brazil, Mexico, Canada, Australia, Japan, South Africa, Argentina, St Martin, Bahamas, Jamaica) promoting  fitness, wellness and a healthy lifestyle.
After 3.5 years hiatus from professional fitness competitions; Monica was invited to compete in the first Professional FIGURE International (2003) at the prestigious IFBB Arnold Sports Festival and went on to compete as the first athlete to ever compete in more than one division of the Olympia competition. (Fitness & Figure)

Unlike Figure’s sister division, Fitness, the Figure category has no dance/strength/fitness routine involved but is comprised of a physique round. The competitors are judged by a panel of experienced judges on their symmetry, full muscle bellies, conditioning of their “physique package’ and stage presence including their grace/poise

More recently (after 16 years of competing in the IFBB Pro Divisions) Monica decided to expand her network and was invited to the WBFF Professional Figure division where she won the 2010 WBFF Pro Figure Championships in Toronto, Canada.

Beyond the stage, Monica works at balancing her “normal” daily schedule of training, traveling for appearances, networking with fans online, personal training/nutritional consulting with her ongoing fitness modeling.
Out of all the years of exposure in the publications, one of her most proud accomplishments was in June 2003 were Monica was honored with the solo spot on ‘Muscle & Fitness’ Magazine; one of very few women to have this opportunity in the history of M&F Magazine!

More recently (Dec 2010-Jan 2011) Monica was featured on the cover of (5) international publications in which all included interviews as well.
Karen Hawley, Former Senior Art Director (1998-2003) – Muscle & Fitness Her’s says, “Monica’s accomplishments speak for themselves, she simply shines – truly a fitness icon for the millennium!”

Monica’s love of helping others achieve their own personal goals is the driving factor in her motivation for her lifestyle. Publishing her first book in 2006 titled, “Monica Brant’s Secrets to Staying Fit & Loving Life!” and hosting the F.E.M. (Fun! Educational! Motivational!) Camps™ for women interested in fitness, competing, modeling and nutrition are just a few ways Monica works to give back to the fitness community. Historically, the F.E.M. Camps™ are held throughout the USA, Canada, Australia and Iceland.

At the present time, Monica has relocated to beautiful Austin, TX where she is a member of the Mayor’s Fitness Council and networks with various Austin trainers to extend her fitness assocations as well to broaden her fitness skills. Monica is featured  monthly with local fitness publication, Austin Fit Magazine and is a Licensed & Certified Master Personal Trainer/Nutritionist and an endorsed athlete for BNRG (Proto Whey/Power Crunch Bars) since 2009.

This year, 2011, Monica will join forces with a board of professionals to spread the word about a new foundation, All About EWE, INC. that will give support to women looking to gain an education within the the fitness community.

To find out more about Monica please visit:
www.monicabrant.com
www.FEMCamp.net
www.mojowellnesspros.com
www.allaboutewe.org

Irene was born in Denmark in 1966, she moved to Sweden at the age of 2 with her parents. She was raised in Malmo but moved to Gothenburg when she was 20. Irene spent years in the gym and has worked hard to build this wonderful body.

Name: Kristýna Tomaschová

Location: Praha,  Czech

Field: fashion, lingerie, topless, glamour, acts, erotic, hostesing, bodypainting

Measures: 89-58-86 (cm)

Height: 162 (cm)

Weight: 70 (kg)

Hair: Blonde

Eyes: Green

Languages: Czech, Spain, English

Czech out the Kristýna Tomaschová photo Gallery

Last month, it was announced that former WWE Diva Jackie Gayda-Haas, placed 3rd out of 37 competitors in the Branch Warren Classic fitness/bodybuilding competition. Jackie has now qualified for the nationals and appears to have a promising bodybuilding career ahead of her.

On the November 26, 2005 edition of Impact!, Gayda made her debut lashing out at Jeff Jarrett. Jarrett was shocked and frightened by Gayda’s unexpected appearance and soon ordered her backstage. He was heard saying, “It’s not what you think.” After being pushed by Jarrett, Gayda slapped him and then went after his valet, Gail Kim. The following week, Gayda came out again to confront Jarrett. After pushing and slapping, the two had to be pulled apart by officials. At Turning Point, the same thing happened in the main event match, but Gayda was restrained by officials. On the December 31 show, Don West tracked down Gayda for an interview. She said her being there had nothing to do with a love affair, but rather that Jarrett had promised her a spot on the TNA Roster, but while she was stuck at home, she turned on the television to see Kim in her place. She said she had a big secret about Jarrett that TNA Management would love to hear, but did not reveal what it was.

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Gayda won TNA’s Knockout of the Year 2005 on the January 14, 2006 edition of Impact!. At Final Resolution, she ran into Raven after he lost his match. She told him that they had something in common, they were both being screwed by TNA Management. On the January 28 edition of Impact!, Gayda came down to ringside during a Jarrett versus Jay Lethal match, to hand an audio tape to Kim. She then left, with a confused Kim soon following.

Jarrett then hired Alex Shelley to video tape Gayda at her home, for blackmail. Shelley complied, returning a week later with a videotape. On the February 18, 2006 edition of Impact!, she told Jarrett that he had won and that she would leave. Jarrett refused to comply and used the tape Shelley compiled of Gayda asblackmail to get her to join his stable. Jackie became the manager of Planet Jarrett. She feuded with Gail Kim in mid-2006. At Sacrifice Jackie announced that she was pregnant, so Kim kayfabe fired her. She has not appeared with TNA since and her photos have been removed from the Knockouts portion of the website. Shortly before her pictures were removed from the TNA website it was confirmed that Gayda parted ways with TNA.

In April 2009, Gayda returned to WWE for one-night only as a part of the 25 Diva battle royal at WrestleMania XXV. She had apparently retired from professional wrestling after her match.

On August 30, 2010, Mexican promotion Perros del Mal Producciones announced that Gayda, under the ring name Miss Jackie, would wrestle for the promotion on September 16, on the same card as her husband Charlie Haas. At the event Jackie and Celestial defeated Jennifer Blake and Mini Chessman in a tag team match.^[10] She appeared again on February 11, 2011, on the Viva La Lucha PPV, teaming with NY Knockout Nikki to take on Christina Von Eerie and Jennifer Blake (a match that she won for her team, via crossbody into a pin).

It is too easy to get lost in this IFBB Pro. Nicole Ball has a jaw dropping physique and a face that makes your heart stop. What you may not know about her is she owned her own restaurant before putting it up for sell, moving and working for an oilfield company.

Home Town: Viking, Alberta
Birthday: August 16, 1976
Height: 5 ‘4″
Weight: 130lbs (contest); 145lbs (off-season)
Current residence: Alberta, Canada

Nicole Ball Photo Gallery

2009 Atlantic City Pro – IFBB, Physique, 3rd
2009 Olympia – IFBB, Physique, 12th
2009 Tampa Bay Pro – IFBB, 4th
2008 Europa Supershow – IFBB, Light Weight, 2nd
2008 Olympia – IFBB, Physique, 11th
2008 Tampa Bay Pro – IFBB, Winner
2007 Atlantic City Pro – IFBB, Light Weight, 1st
2007 Olympia – IFBB, Physique, 8th
2006 Canadian National Bodybuilding Championships – CBBF, Middle Weight, 1st & Overall (Pro Card)
2004 Canadian National Bodybuilding Championships – CBBF, Middle Weight, 1st
2003 Canadian National Bodybuilding Championships – CBBF, Middle Weight, 1st

Instead of More Bikini Contests What We Need Is More Physique Categories

By Bill Dobbins

I see a lot of female physique competitors who go into figure because they don’t think they can – or don’t want to – get as big and muscular as either amateur or pro bodybuilding champions. However, although you can make a lot of changes to the body with dieting and training, there seems to be very distinct differences in the genetics of bodybuilders vs. figure competitors. Like the story of the Ugly Duckling, ducks are ducks and swans are swans and wanting to be something other than you are doesn’t really accomplish anything.

Successful figure competitors in general look more like models with some muscle and definition than they do dieted down and depleted bodybuilders. Good bodybuilders tend to have more of a compact build. Their muscles are fuller and flare out from the joints. They tend to be thicker and harder. When you try to modify this kind of physique to suit figure judging it simply doesn’t work. There has never been a really good female bodybuilder who changed over to be successful in figure.

However, the opposite transformation is quite possible. There are many women in figure who struggle in competition because their genetics are really those of bodybuilding. But for one reason or another they simply don’t want to compete as bodybuilders. A prime example that comes to mind is Monica Brant. Monica won in fitness but has gradually placed lower and lower competing in figure. But I have seen her in several contests in which I felt she could be the best lightweight bodybuilder in the world with just slight changes to her contest preparation.

Why do so many women in figure with bodybuilding genetics resist making the change? One reason has influenced bodybuilding for women since the beginning. A lot of women have a self-image that won’t allow them to put on too much muscle because this would give them a look too far outside what is generally considered as acceptable and attractive in the current culture. Even the legendary Sharon Bruneau admits that this kind of thinking plagued her constantly when she was one of the top pro bodybuilders. Women bodybuilders never existed before the late 1970s and the standards today are way beyond those of 15 or 20 years ago so we are still going through a cultural revolution that many find disquieting.

And there is the matter of anabolic drugs. Many women believe they can’t become as big and muscular as the top pros and amateurs without using them and they simply don’t want to put what are essentially male hormones into their bodies.

So what changes can be made to the sport to make it more attractive to genetic bodybuilders now competing in figure to make the transition? There are two I can think of:

1. Use weight divisions in ALL pro contests. In many pro events a shapely, perfectly proportioned 135 pound woman might find herself standing next to women like Yaxeni Oriquen, Heather Armbrust or Alina Popa all of whom weight 170 pounds or more. And they can never win most pro titles as a result. With the correctly adjusted weight divisions we would see more champions like Dayana Cadeau (who has won almost every contest she’s entered that had a lightweight class), Cathy LeFrancois – or even Monica Brant.

2. Create a type of contest that falls between bodybuilding and figure, one that rewards bodybuilding-type physiques that are smaller in size than what we see with the top female bodybuilders. Call if Body Sculpture or Artistic Bodybuilding or whatever you like. Bigger, fuller and more muscular than figure competitors – smaller than pro bodybuilders. IFBB amateur contests in Europe have categories like this. Perhaps it’s time to see the same thing in the NPC and the IFBB Pro Division.

Imagine all those genetically gifted figure women who struggle with diet and excessive cardio trying to deplete their physiques to conform to judging standards who could stop punishing themselves and simply let their bodies assume the size and shape nature designed them to have.

The federations and promoters thrive on getting as many competitors to enter contests as possible. They pay a fee to the federations and to the federations as well. So we end up with what are supposed to be physique federations promoting what are nothing more than bikini beauty contests in which the women need to be in some kind of shape. (Many of these competitors look fabulous, by the way – along the lines of “Don’t you wish your girlfriend was hot like me.”)

But there are thousands of women out there who are disappointed by figure but don’t enter bodybuilding contests who could be persuaded to enter a contest which features a new in-between class of physique competitors. More satisfaction for these women, more money for the federations and promoters.

The only other alternative for these women is enter some kind of “natural” contest, although the judging standards in many of these is even more subjective and arbitrary than you see in the NPC and IFBB. And if lie-detector tests, which many of these events use, were all that reliable they would be admissible in court. Which they aren’t.

To see the work of legendary Bill Dobbins, Click Here

Bill Dobbins’ Fine Art Prints are available through his website http://www.billdobbins.com

Female bodybuilder Cassandra Floyd was kind enough to catch up with Female Muscle while rushing from the Atlantic City Pro to the Olympia Weekend. Thanks Cassandra!

Lori Braun: What was it like winning your pro card?

Cassandra Floyd: It was a validation that all the hard work and dieting finally came to fruition. By the way, this is my second Pro Card. I was a former WNBF Pro Light Weight for over 10 years. But, I put things in perspective. I know Rome wasn’t built in a day. The process of training at another level is required. I am patient, so I will be on top at some point in time in my career.

Lori Braun: You just hit the stage at the 2009 Atlantic City Pro. Will you be competing again this year? And if so, what are your goals?

Cassandra Floyd: No more shows for 2009.I now have to focus on school and work. My full-time job pays the bills and not this sport. I have to keep everything in perspective.

Lori Braun: What first got you interested in bodybuilding?

Cassandra Floyd: Actually, I use to watch my dad lift weights in the den part of our home growing up. I would sneak and take the lightest one and do bicep curls. Then in high school and college I would go work out with the guys and they pushed me. So after college I joined a World’s Gym and a group of powerlifters took me under their wings. They stated I had the genetics for bodybuilding, so I did my first NPC show in 1989. Won my class and the overall. So I was hooked from that time until present.

Lori Braun: Is there anything that you remember the powerlifters teaching you that you still use in your training today? Such as training techniques or philosophies?

Cassandra Floyd: Technique is so important. Deadlifts are the best but if your feet are not set properly, you can injure yourself. Major lower back pain. Always wear a belt to support your back. Wrap your knees.

Lori Braun: What advice can you give women who want to lift weights and get toned, but who fear lifts like the deadlift and bench press?

Cassandra Floyd: My advice to all women: you have the control to take your body to the level that suits you. You have to incorporate weights to get toned or to firm up the muscle. Deadlifts and bench press are not totally necessary, always. You can use dumbbells with high reps and less rest between sets. You must also add some type of cardio exercise to your routine.

Lori Braun: What are the most important aspects of gaining muscle for a new female lifter who wants to compete?

Cassandra Floyd: The most important aspect of gaining muscle is nutrition. Eating the right foods. Getting plenty of sleep.

Lori Braun: What guidelines do you recommend for daily protein intake?

Cassandra Floyd: I can only recommend what works for me because everyone’s body is different. Off season I split 75% protein and 25% carbs. My carbs stay low all year round. When I prepare for competition my protein is 85% protein and 15% carbs. This is what works for me.

Lori Braun: You mention in your bio on your website that you were bullied when you were younger. Tell us about that…and how did it motivate you?

Cassandra Floyd: Well. I  grew up in the Jehovah’s Witness religion which was very strict at the time. We were not allowed to be around school mates after school if they weren’t part of that religion.

So kids at school would want to come over to play, and each time I told them no, my parents would mot allow it. And I could not go to their homes as well. So I was picked on because they felt that I was too good to be around them which wasn’t the case.

I was a major tom boy growing up because I have 9 brothers. I fall number 11 out of 16. There’s 4 boys in front of me 2 after me. I didn’t have a sister to hang out with. I would play every sport they played: flag football, regular football, basketball, volleyball, baseball, softball , kickball. I was always thin but muscular. I use to watch my father lift weight and I would mimic him. I would sneak and pick up the lightest weight possible. I had a plan for the girls and boys who would always made fun of me.

Basically, the plan was to kick their butts. This was my inspiration to start lifting weight.

Lori Braun: What does it feel like now when you meet an old friend (or enemy) and they see what great condition you’re in… I imagine everyone is now your friend?

Cassandra Floyd: To answer your question, I can’t say I have enemies. If they are out there too bad. I live a very simple life and I was raised open minded and color blind. I give people the same respect they give me. It does give me pleasure when I visit my hometown and see some of my classmates who where very popular in school and to see them fat out of shape. Also they look like they have 10 years of aging on me. Such pleasure!

Lori Braun: You just came back from the 2009 Olympia Weekend. What’s the best and worst part about the Olympia weekend for you?

Cassandra Floyd: The best was seeing the reaction from the men’s finals. Jay and Branch made night and day improvements from last year. Dexter was basically pissed on stage. The bottom line size and condition made the Olympia this year. It was judged fairly. The worst…it ended too soon. I worked at the Europa booth this year with Denise Masino. Had a blast… just didn’t want the fun to end.

Thanks for your time.

Lori Braun: Thank you Cassandra!

The reason I started fitness competing is…

I decided to enter my first competition without knowing anyone else who had ever competed. Oxygen fitness magazine first piqued my interest with its contest coverage. It made sense that if I wanted a physique like the women on those pages, I should become a competitor and learn exactly how they train and diet.

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The person I most wanted to be when I started was…

I admired many of the professional competitors and appreciated advice from Ava Cowan and Kary Odiatu. However, my focus was never to duplicate the physique or success of another. My training and career goals have developed year by year.

The people I owe the most to are…

Right from the beginning of my competitive career, my parents supported my new passion. They’ve attended every contest, including most of the local ones that only my ContestPrep.ca clients are in! However, I wouldn’t be who I am without my husband, Craig. We embrace each other’s dreams one hundred percent.

The supplements I can’t live without are…

Chocolate-flavoured whey protein curbs my cravings for sweets, pre-workout drinks amp me up for each training session, and FUSION’s SUB•Q gives me the extra edge I need to lean up for competitions or photo shoots.

The best thing about training is…

The energy boost I get after a good cardio or weight training session. Your body will reward you for choosing exercise as your daily stress relief.

My ultimate goal is…

To inspire men and women to live healthy, active lifestyles as I continue to excel in my professional competitive career.

Years I’ve been training…

13 years, 6 competitively.

The last new bodybuilding/training thing I learned was…

I recently travelled to Arizona with Craig, where he trained with IFBB pro David Henry. Dave and his wife, Nicki, had used the DC style of training, and I’ve never seen Craig more exhausted after a workout. Craig has since taken me through the DC calf training – I couldn’t walk properly for a week!

The day I got my pro card…

I was also told I would be shooting with Oxygen fitness magazine – my dream come true! There was so much to be thankful for; I’d worked so hard and overcome so much to realize this dream … I cried!

The one thing every competing bodybuilder should know is…

The importance of practicing stage presence. Not only do you have to be confident that you’re showcasing your physique in your best poses, but you have to condition yourself to hold tight for the entire round.

One bodybuilding secret I discovered is…

My secret to success: Keep a positive state of mind, and surround yourself with empowering people!

What I enjoy most about competing is…

The focus and anticipation of the coming competition pushes me to my limits.

The thing I hate most about stepping up onstage is…

Being desperately thirsty.

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Many female bodybuilders will attest to ‘standing out like a sore thumb’ in a crowd and being starred at by men and women. Some will even joke that they are often treated like “aliens”. It’s typical that even if female bodybuilders’ physiques are privately admired by men and women, many will still judge them publicly. Female bodybuilders especially are ridiculed on anything, from their muscles to their character. Usually the ridicule is solely based on their muscles. People often think that because a female chooses to adorn muscles, her character is automatically flawed. Truth is, these women are rarely given a chance of getting to know them before being scrutinized. This mindset of society alone may be one of the most intriguing reasons why some men are fascinated with female muscle.

If given the opportunity to date a bodybuilder, most male muscle lovers would jump at the chance. Of the men who have had relationships with female bodybuilders, they will tell you that dating them is not much different than dating a “normal woman”. They feel that female bodybuilders are normal women too who just happen to be in a sport which requires muscularity. These are “women and not aliens” and love the same things that most women love in a man and otherwise.

Outside of those who have dated female bodybuilders, it’s quite interesting how many men are intimidated by female muscle. Everyone has an opinion but a lot of the opinions are due to societies views that women should look “feminine” and not have muscles because “muscles are for men”. These same men will say they are pretty confident in themselves; however, when a strong muscular woman gets near them, they tend to become very uncomfortable. Usually this reaction is based on a level of insecurity of one’s self. Some men seem to feel that being a “man” means they have to be in control, and if a woman “appears” to be stronger physically, it sends a message that she just may be more dominant. But looks can be deceiving. Women who wear a muscular body do not always want to portray dominance. They enjoy being soft and adored just as any other woman would, the only difference is they choose to build their bodies.

Many female bodybuilders prefer men who are not bodybuilders. A lot of them feel that since they are surrounded by training the majority of the time, it is nice to have someone in their lives who can take them away from the gym, so to speak, and just concentrate on getting to know one another. However, these women do look for men who are confident in themselves and who are usually fit or have some sense of good health and utilizes it in his life.

Becoming a bodybuilder is a personal choice. Even if the choice is not understood or accepted by others, it is still a choice. The issues that other men and women have with this choice is not that important to female bodybuilders. Opinions, positive and negative will go hand in hand with just about any decision that is made in life. People tend to rebel against things they don’t understand because it makes them uncomfortable.

The comments female bodybuilders get range from ‘she looks like a man’ to ‘she could bench press me’. Some people appear to be grossed out by the look and others admire and want to know how they got their bodies to do that. What’s interesting is, whether grossed out or in awe, the need to stare is the same. This goes back to the sometimes “private admiration” and not being able to show it in a “public” setting for fear of what society will have to say about it.

Either way, female bodybuilders are not something people are used to seeing everyday; therefore, when they are seen, the sight of them will usually cause quite a stir.

No matter what you look like or how much money you make you can succeed, get the brand new book by Lori Braun: “MEET, DATE AND SEDUCE ATHLETIC WOMEN”

Courtesy of: The Examiner

Click Here for Tanya Merryman Photo Gallery

Fans of the pioneering Fitness America Pageant surely remember one of its greatest competitors, raven-haired Tanya Merryman, who won the crown in 1998. It’s hard to believe more than a decade has past, but Tanya — having taken a lengthy respite from stage spotlights that alluded to retirement — is back and competing again.

Not surprisingly, she’s still got it. In fact, she looks better than ever!

Indeed, leg enthusiasts have always pointed to Tanya’s calves as being the gold standard — and it’s foolish to argue — but her startlingly etched abs and muscular back are nothing to sneeze at; she was in breathtaking shape for the studio.

But while her physique continues to grow more polished throughout the years, nothing seems likely to compare with Tanya’s irrefutable character and integrity. One needs to look no further than at her poised reaction to a flummoxing last-place finish at this year’s Arnold.

A lesser competitor may have scoffed at the insulting snub to a former champion, especially coming off an injury. Not Tanya. “That was fine,” she said in a candid interview with Bodysport. “When I hurt my hamstring again and had to alter my routine I knew I wasn’t going to be my best so I just rolled with it.”

She always will — win or lose. That’s class. That’s Tanya Merryman. Welcome back, girl.

Female Bodybuilder Christa Bauch Biography

Christa Bauch (born on December 19, 1947) is a professional female bodybuilder from Germany.

Born in Bad Schandau, East Germany, Bauch enjoyed music, riding and sprinting at school, before training as a masseuse and swimming pool medic. At 27 she left East Germany to settle in the West; this was done legally, as she married a West German citizen and waited the required five years for an exit permit. Her oldest son, Daniel, was five years old, and she was pregnant with her second child, Patricia. Shortly after she relocated to West Germany, her husband, employed by the German engineering company AEG, was transferred to Baghdad. Further spells followed in Guatemala and Algeria, before Bauch returned to Germany on her own with the children, to ensure they got a proper education. Her third child, Rene, was born a few years later.

Looking for a challenge, Bauch took up rifle shooting for several years before taking up bodybuilding. Bauch won several local and regional shows before her first big competitive year in 1987. After only two years training she took second places in the NABBA German, European and World championships (in the last of these losing out to American Connie McCloskey). In 1988 she switched to the WABBA organization, taking the overall European title as well as the couples title. The following year she move to the IFBB. After a disappointing second place in the German Nationals, Bauch won the World Games heavyweight title in Karlsruhe (only 20 miles from her home), beating out a strong field including countrywoman Jutta Tippelt and American Kim King. With the World Games victory she earned her pro card.

Bauch’s first pro show was the 1990 Ms. International, at age 43. After turning in an impressive fourth place finish, she was disqualified as a result of a positive drug test (WPW, 1993). More problems followed as Bauch had to have an operation later that year to remove a vein in her leg. A few months later she bounced back with a fourth place finish in the Italian Grand Prix in Rimini, missing a Ms. Olympia qualification by one slot.

Bauch’s highest placing as a professional was second at the 1994 Canada Cup. She retired from competition after the 1995 Jan Tana Classic. Although she no longer competes, she continues to train. At a height of 5’3″, Bauch’s normal contest weight ranged from 132 to 145 pounds.

Contest History

* 1987 German Championship – 2nd
* 1987 Europa Championship (NABBA) – 2nd
* 1987 World Championship (NABBA) – 2nd
* 1988 Europa Championship (WABBA) – 1st
* 1989 German Championship (IFBB) – 2nd
* 1989 World Games (IFBB) – 1st (Pro qualifier)
* 1990 Ms. International – 4th (later disqualified)
* 1991 Grand Prix of Italy – 4th
* 1992 Jan Tana Classic – 11th
* 1993 Jan Tana Classic – 7th
* 1993 IFBB Ms. Olympia – 18th
* 1994 Canada Cup – 2nd
* 1994 IFBB Ms. Olympia – 12th
* 1995 Jan Tana Classic – 5th

Personal Information

I created a whole new me through fitness. I was saggy, baggy, sad and self loathing. I knew I needed to change so I picked myself up by the bootstraps and started training. I didn’t have a trainer to guide me and it was all trial and error, but here I am…..single mother of 4, ages 10-23 and I am in my 40’s. Never think it’s too late to change your life and feel good about yourself. Its not just a change of body….it’s a change of mind and a positive outlook out on.

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I love to help people feel better about themselves

Twitter www.twitter.com/msfitfern

Awards

Numerous titles and trophies competing with the National Physiques Commitee (NPC)

Gender

Female

Personal Interests

Modeling, figure competitions, the gym, fashion…love me some shoes!

Websites:

http://www.fernassard.com
http://www.bodyspace.com/msfitness
http://www.myspace.com/msfitfern

So I entered my first show in May of 2006, which was the NPC Lehigh Valley show.  I got 6th place and was told by the judges I was too lean and too cut.  I entered the NPC PA championship in Harrisburg a couple weeks later and didn’t diet and ended up and took first in my class and overall.  I was then I really kicked up my training even more.  I finally had some more competition in my life!  I then took try at bodybuilding.  I already train like one, so I figure what the heck I will just enter for fun!  Not really expecting to win anything, I entered the NPC Mountain Valley Championship in Nov of 2006 for lightweight bodybuilding, and once again, unexpectedly I took the overall.  I enjoy competing in bodybuilding because I love going through the mandatory poses and I like making a routine to dance to.  Even though I like competing in body building, I feel aI am a little better suited for figure because it is more femine and I’m not looking to get any bigger than I already am.  I then competed at NPC Pittsburgh Championship in 2007, where I got 6th place.  I took some time off till 2008 and was introduced to a different affiliate, NABBA, which has different rules for figure.  NABBA figure is like bodybuilding in heals.  You have mandatory poses and also a routine, which gives you more stage time.  I entered couple shows in 2008 taking first and overall at the NABBA Eastern USA and also 2nd in NABBA Ms. Figure America. My most recent shows that I have done, since my 2 year break from competing, were the 2010 Tracey Greenwood Classic, which I took first in my class and took the overall of the show, and the 2010 Team Universe, which was my first national show where I got 12th out of 40-some girls.  I plan on competing in another national show soon, hopefully before the end of the year.

Dana Linn Bailey Website

Kortney Olson is an American-born bodybuilder and athlete.

She made her competitive bodybuilding debut at the NPC Contra Costa Classic in November 2011.

Olson migrated to Australia and became Australia’s first ever female arm wrestling champion in 2012.

Olson has been the subject of many TV documentaries showcasing her strength and muscularity, including Stan Lee’s Superhumans season 3 – High Voltage, where scientists claimed in testing that she had the ‘strongest thighs on the planet’.

Kortney is also the founder of Kamp Konfidence, a camp which empowers, encourages and improves young girls and women wellbeing.

Number 1 issue growing up:
Hating my legs. I always felt bigger/different than everyone else.
Your hero:
My Dad. Even after finding out he had a brain tumor, he made a joke out of it. never complained about being a victim.
What you wanted to do growing up:
First female president of the U.S.A
One thing you could change in the world:
Greedy and dishonest people running massive corporations.
Favourite food: Nuts. Swear I was a squirrel in my past life.
Best quality in a friend: Honesty
Worst quality in a person:Selfishness
Number 1 pet peeve: People who tailgate. get a grip!
Dog or Cat:  Dog without doubt.
Best advice you can give to someone younger:
1. It’s progress not perfection. 2. Stop comparing: you’ll be better than someone else, and they better than you. 3. Whoever told you Women ‘bulk up’ when they lift weights, LIED. If you lift things like washing machines on a regular basis and take lots of steroids, then maybe. But physical strength is one of my proudest achievements.

The first question everyone seems to ask is ‘what got me into bodybuilding’?
Well, it starts with a good genetic make-up.  I have the build of my father, who was an athlete, and my grandfather on my mom’s side.  Both are small, compact, and strong.  My grandfather still walks 3 miles 3 times a week at age 83.  I have always been an athlete.

By the age of 4, I started gymnastics.  I started distance running at age 8. I would run 2 miles before school and 5 miles after school.  I ran in several distance races  always placing first in my age division.  Running, softball, cheerleading and much more was how I lived my childhood.  Being an active child allowed me to build a tight compact body.

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It was about my junior year in high school when I realized that if I did sit-ups every day I got ripples in my stomach. My friends even started to notice.  During my senior year, I took a weightlifting class in the summer. As usual, I did the most sit-ups per minute.

It was great to show of my strength.  I remember the guys talking me into squatting 45 lbs. on each side.  I did it!!!  It was awesome, and I was hooked!  At the age of 19, I really started going to the gym.  I got a membership and 1 free training session.

I would roller blade 3 miles to the gym, work out, and skate home.  I was even trying to diet back then; eating bran muffins, salad, and protein shakes.  I didn’t know anything about how to diet, but I was trying.  Year by year, I learned more.  Soon, I was helping others.  I became a personal trainer while working on my Bachelors of Science degree at University of South Florida.

In addition to my own training, I instructed spinning, kick boxing and, strength and conditioning.  Keeping my ultimate goal of Health and Fitness in mind, I became a neuromuscular therapist at the Humanities Center in Pinellas Park Florida.  In 2000, I competed in my first show Women’s Tri- Fitness and placed 3rd.  In 2001, I competed in the NPC USA Costal as a heavyweight (136 lbs) and won the over-all championship.  In 2002, I moved to St. Louis to attend Logan Chiropractic College, My Alma Mater.  2003 was another great year for me; I won the over all championship at the Junior Nationals as a Middleweight (131 lbs).

I immediately jumped to the 2003 USA where I placed 7th in the Middleweights.  It was time to come back and regroup.  I needed to focus on my National Board exams for Chiropractic.  I graduated in April 2004 and opened my practice “Westerfield Health Center” four months before the 2004 Nationals.  It was difficult opening a new practice and training for the Nationals.  I placed 4th in a very tough Light heavy weight class (140lbs).  Again, back home to my practice to channel my energy towards patients and making physique improvements.

I have a busy practice, and every second of my day is spent healing with my strong hands, mind,and heart.  This made training for the 2005 Nationals the most difficult feat yet!  I had to go back to my old early morning training routine to ensure a good, focused work out.

I work 12-hour days, so getting up very early and expending energy was tough.  Staying focused and listening to what my patients were telling me was difficult.  I was beginning to question whether or not the energy I put into bodybuilding should be used for my practice and patients.

I had a heart to heart with myself during my training.  I promised myself it was just a bit longer, and I was going to give it everything, letting the results  guide me.  If there are 2 things I’m 100% confident in… It’s my dedication and the healing power my hands and heart possess.

On November, 21st 2005, I won the Light heavy weight class (131lbs) making me an IFBB Professional Bodybuilder!  Winning my Pro card proved to me that I’m on the right track with my life and energy.  I now plan to work harder.

2006 was another amazing year for me.  I picked my pro debut to be the 2006 Europa Super Show.  I placed 2nd in a tough open class.  2nd qualified me for the 2006 Ms. Olympia.  There I was my first year as a pro experiencing being a “Rookie” on the Olympia stage.  What a great feeling.  My goal has always been to just stand on the Olympia stage and I was doing it in my debut year.  I have to continue to fill out and put on a bit more size.  A lot of what I need comes with age and continued hard training and dieting.  I plan to do the same shows in 2007.

I have high hopes on qualifying for the Ms. Olympia @ the Europa Super Show, and shoot for a top 10 spot at the Olympia.  I do have some professional goals as well.  I’m always working at sharpening my skills as a business woman which takes time and the craft of learning from your mistakes.  My attitude towards bodybuilding is this… I have a very short time to live the “Rock Star” life style of a professional bodybuilder, but I have forever to be a Chiropractor.  I want to take full advantage of the joy bodybuilding brings me because it’s just for the moment.

I often struggle with the fact of Who am I?  A bodybuilder, a Chiropractor, a mentor, a friend, Dena!  Then a close friend said to me “We are 3 people.  We are who we are, we are who others think we are, and we are who we really are’.  It became so clear after that.  I’ve met almost all of my life time goals already.

One thing I have left is to play the piano.  I gave myself to the age of 45 to get that under my belt. The most important thing I strive for daily is to be a good person, and although I fail everyday, because no one is perfect, I still wake up and try it again.  I could not be any happier that I am @ this point in my life.

I would like to thank you for caring enough to read about who I am, and I appreciate your support.  What do I want from Bodybuilding many ask…?  I feel I can be one of the people responsible for changing the sport.  My feminine physical physique is encouraging to other aspiring athletes.  My profession further exclaims my dedication to the sport and others.

Bodybuilding gives me respect for working hard from the bottom to the top, and allows me toinspire and motivateothers…through bodybuilding I can get the word out on how to increase longevity and vitality of life by being involved in your personal health management.

My training goals for my next show are the same as last year… legs, shoulders, and lats.  I plan to be even better!  I plan to get up to 165-170 off season for 2007.  I train 4-5 days/ week usually one body part per session and split work outs (am&pm) on the weekends.

A couple of stats..
Biceps 15 3/4 inches, quads 24 inches, chest 41 inches, calf 15 ¾ inches, forearm 12 ¾ inches.  Some of my best lifts..
Bench press 315, leg press 1,5oo, squat 315, curl 165.

A couple last questions to answer: I’m 38 years old born January 26th, 1971.  Yes an Aquarius.  I’m a native of St.Petersburg Florida.  I spent my entire life there until coming to St. Louis for Chiropractic School.  Thank you again for your love and support.

Italian-born Lorena, with her explosive physique, lives and works in Italy.

Thanks to her physical qualities and talent, since 1998 she has achieved the best results and obtained a number of prestigious titles. Lorena, who is known as a leading Italian athlete in the world of professional fitness, even abroad, owes her results to her incisive character and inexhaustible energy, which has led her to hard weight-lifting trainings in the gymnasium for almost 14 years.

Her journey to compete started in 1998, after years of intense training under the close direction of a brilliant trainer. Seeing Lorena’s genetic qualities and willpower, he convinced her to take part in the small category of the Natural Female Selection for the New York World Championships, her springboard into the world of bodybuilding and competitive fitness.

Lorena Cozza Photo Gallery

After her first contest and victory, a series of contests and victories followed, until she became an IFBB professional in 2003.  Her job owes its roots to the artistic gymnastics and athletic trainings which she had always practiced since she was a child.  Over the years, Lorena has collaborated with some Italian Fitness-oriented companies, working as a model, promoter, sales agent, technical consultant and personal trainer in many fitness centers.

She was also chosen to be the testimonial of Panatta Sport, leading manufacturer of equipment for fitness centers, The Freeway, famous producer of sport and free-time wear, Ultimate Italia, Gensan and Aqua Viva, producers of nutritional supplements for athletes.