FitGems Nation

Marc Thyssen @ Arnold 2012

2012-01-24T00:16:00.000-06:00

One of the top rising stars in fitness photography, Marc Thyssen will be shooting at the 2012 Arnold! Within the last two years, he put together FitHeat and Fitness Supermodel Weekend, which were unprecedented in this industry. The list of names who have shot with him are no joke: Monica Brant, Christine Pomponio-Pate, Felicia Romero, Myriam Capes, Larissa Reis, Adela Garcia, Nicole Wilkins, Heather Dees, Sonia Gonzales, Rose-Marie Romero, Sabrina Taylor...just to name a few. He plans to take 2012 by storm, and you can be part of the action.

To book Marc, visit his website at http://www.marcthyssen.com/, or email him at marc@marcthyssen.com. You can also "like" him on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/marcthyssenphotography. Oh, by the way, you MIGHT want to make a decision this month if you want to save you a little money. If you put down a deposit before the end of the month, you will be booked at 2011 prices. Next month, the prices of shoots go up, so act early to save some cash! Tell Marc that FitGems sent you.

Nicole Wilkins: Why 2011 Was Her Defining Year in IFBB Figure

2012-01-18T10:54:00.000-06:00

In 2009, Nicole Wilkins climbed to the top of the IFBB Figure division by winning the Figure Olympia title, the biggest championship in figure. Obviously, this was a major win for her and a big win for the new faces of the division, but WOW...she got some serious flack on some message boards, even the most polite ones. Obviously, she had her supporters but her detractors. I think the problem was for some was that her look was seemingly (at the time) too small and not hard enough for figure. Some feel there were physiques out there better than hers. That, and the previous champions (Davana Medina, Jenny Lynn, and Jennifer Gates) came in pretty conditioned (size varied between the three, though) From what I saw online, fans weren't exactly too thrilled with the outcome of the 2009 Figure Olympia competition.

Nicole @ 2009 Figure Olympia
Photo credit: Muscular Development

She made a bit of improvements since then trying to show others that she deserves to be at the top of the figure world. While the changes were there ever-so-slightly, and there were some willing to embrace it, the detractors still outweighed the supporters. But everyone has their defining moment, that one moment where everyone (those for and against you) stands up and takes notice. That moment came at the 2011 Tournament of Champions when Nicole stepped on stage. Most people though she would be the favorite to win, but no one, not even yours truly, expected her to come in the way she did that day. I had to take a double take to make sure the woman was indeed Nicole Wilkins.

The Nicole Wilkins that shut the detractors up. 2011 Tournament of Champions
Photo credit: MuscleContest

She clearly added significant size, definittion, and cutness to her physique. I honestly don't know how many pounds of muscle she added since her 2009 Figure Olympia win, but it was clear as day that it was a nice amount. Add to her posing, beauty, and structure, and you got the ultimate figure machine. Nicole might have not been the woman people wanted to be the face of IFBB Figure back in 2009, but that has changed big time now. I'm not saying everyone has suddenly become a fan of hers, but others are starting to see Nicole as a rightful champion. If she keeps this up in 2012 and beyond, Nicole might want to start making room for more medals and trophies. Just saying.

An improved Nicole @ 2011 Figure Olympia
Photo credit: FitnessRx

What are YOUR thoughts on Nicole Wilkins? Did you think 2011 was the year she proved herself? Do you like THIS Nicole better than the old one? Sound off in the comments below.

3rd Annual FitGems Awards: The Big Ones (Pro Division)

2012-01-14T19:31:00.000-06:00

Anyone who steps on stage is already a winner, but there are few that can truly consider themselves THE best in the world at what they do. Based off your votes, you considered them the ones that owned 2011. They have won titles and stepped on the Olympia, with some of them preparing to step on the Arnold stage in a couple of months. These competitors also have developed loyal fan bases who made their presece known in the voting polls and various social media ways. Ladies and gentleman...I present to you...the top pro competitors of 2011, as voted by YOU! (Photo credit goes to Muscular Development and Fitness Rx).

Pro Female Bodybuilder of the Year: IRIS KYLE

Runner-up: Alina Popa
Others nominated include Yaxeni Oriquen, Brigita Brezovac, Debi Laszewski, and Isabelle Turell.

Pro Figure Competitor of the Year: AVA COWAN

Runner-up: Nicole Wilkins
Others nominated include Erin Stern, Kat Rameriz, Candice Keene, and Ann Titone.

Pro Fitness Competitor of the Year: TANJI JOHNSON

Runner-up: Adela Garcia
Others nominated include Myriam Capes, Tina Durkin, Michelle Blank, and Nicole Duncan.

Pro Bikini Competitor of the Year: JAIME BAIRD

Runner-up: Amanda Latona
Others nominated include Nicole Nagrani, Sonia Gonzales, Nathalia Melo, and Vanessa Campbell.

3rd Annual FitGems Awards: The Big Ones (Amateur Division)

2012-01-14T18:54:00.002-06:00

Anyone who steps on stage is already a winner, but there are few can can consider themselves THE best in the world at what they do. Based off your votes, you considered them the ones that owned 2011. Some of them have won titles and pro cards, heck some of them even qualified for the Olympia and have been selected for an Arnold invite in 2012. And fan bases showed their loyalties to their favorites big time in the biggest categories of them all. Ladies and gentleman...I present to you...the top amateur competitors of 2011, as voted by YOU! (Photo credit goes to Muscular Development and Fitness Rx).

Amateur Female Bodybuilder of the Year: KIRA NEUMAN

Runner-up: Michelle Brent
Others nominated include Amanda Alger, Kimmie Morgan, Judy Gallard, and Cynthia Colon.

Amateur Figure Competitor of the Year: CHERYL DAVIS

Runner-up: Allison Moyer
Others nominated include Wendy Fortino, Joni Neilson, Allison Frahn, and Shelly Albetta.

Amateur Fitness Competitor of the Year: SHERI VUCICK

Runner-up: Whitney Jones
Others nominated include Amanda Hatfield, Lishia Dean, Meredith Miller, and Viko Newman.

Amateur Bikini Competitor of the Year: SKYE TAYLOR

Runner-up: India Paulino
Others nominated include Diana Graham, Candyce Graham, Noe Alexander, and Jennifer Rankin.

Amateur Women's Physique Competitor of the Year: JILL RUDISON

Runner-up: Dana Bailey
Others nominated include Jillian Reville, Rachel Baker, Tracy Bodner, and Susie Fuller Torres.

3rd Annual FitGems Awards: International Competitor Winners

2012-01-14T18:15:00.001-06:00

The United States isn't the only country that provides great things. Canada, Mexico, the United Kindom, Africa, China, Japan, and many others have given the IFBB some of the best talents the industry has to offer. There are those that have gained such a following that fans all over the world consider them the best the international world has to offer. On that not, congrats to the International Competitors of the Year in their respective categories! (Photo credit goes to Muscular Development and FitnessRx)

International Female Bodybuilder of the Year: ALINA POPA

Runner-up: Yaxeni Oriquen
Others nominated include Brigita Brezovac, Debi Laszewski, Maria Rite Bello, and Dayana Cadeau.

International Fitness Competitor of the Year: OKSANA GRISHINA

Runner-up: Mindi O'Brien
Others nominated include Myriam Capes, Jodi Boam, Regain De Silva, and Minna Pajulahti

International Figure Competitor of the Year: ROSA-MARIE ROMERO

Runner-up: Larissa Reis
Others nominated include Rachelle Chase, Tracey MacDonald, Emily Stirling, and Candace John.

International Bikini Competitor of the Year: NATHALIA MELO

Runner-up: Jelena Abbou
Others nominated include Dina Al-Sabah, Justine Monro, Noemi Olah, and Willeke Verhaar-Davis

3rd Annual FitGems Awards: Breakout Pro Awards

2012-01-14T14:15:00.000-06:00

Congrats to the following on winning the Breakout Pro at the 2011 FitGems Awards! These competitors entered 2011 and took over with a force. Some of the nominees have went on to turn pro later on in 2011. 2012 could be a big year for them. (Photo credit for all photos to Muscular Development and Fitness Rx)

Breakout Pro Bodybuilder of the Year: ALINA POPA

Runner-up: Monique Jones
Others nominated include Brigita Brezovac, Sarah Hayes, Claire O'Connell, and Angela Salvagno.

Breakout Pro Figure Competitor of the Year: AVA COWAN

Runner-up: Alicia Harris
Others nominated include Sabrina Taylor, Candice Keene, Ann Titone, and Teresa Anthony.

Breakout Pro Fitness Competitor of the Year: NICOLE DUNCAN

Runner-up: Michelle Blank
Others nominated include Jodi Boam, Camela Rodriquez, Myriam Capes, and Stacy Wright.

Breakout Pro Bikini Competitor of the Year: JAIME BAIRD

Runner-up: Nathalia Melo
Others nominated include Christina Vargas, Diana Graham, Vanessa Campbell, and Jennifer Andrews.

2011 FitGems Awards: The Breakout Amateur Winners

2012-01-14T13:25:00.004-06:00

Congrats to the following on winning the Breakout Awards at the 2011 FitGems Awards! These competitors entered 2011 and took over with a force. Some of the nominees have went on to turn pro later on in 2011. 2012 could be a big year for them. (Photo credit for all photos to Muscular Development and Fitness Rx)

Breakout Amateur Bodybuilder of the Year: CYNTHIA COLON

Runner-up: Michelle Cummings
Others nominated include Amanda Alger, Pat Wentz, Pam Franklin, and Judy Gallard.

Breakout Amateur Figure Competitor of the Year: WENDY FORTINO

Runner-up: Laura Bailey
Others nominated include Tracey MacDonald, Yolanda Alvarado, Sue Knott, and Essence Monett.

Breakout Amater Fitness Competitor of the Year: SHERI VUCICK

Runner-up: Amanda Hatfield
Others nominated include Paula Williams-Gulliam, Regan Grossman, Meredith Miller, and Cicely Kyle.

Breakout Amateur Bikini Competitor of the Year: INDIA PAULINO

Runner-up: Diana Graham
Others nominated include Sherrie Carnicle, Candyce Graham, Noe Alexander, and Rebecca Staggs.

Breakout Amateur Physique Competitor of the Year: DANA BAILEY

Runner-up: Nikki Warner
Others nominated include Tracy Bodner, Rachel Baker, Cheryl Cooke, and Jennifer Robinson.

3rd Annual FitGems Awards: Inspirational Competitor of the Year

2012-01-14T12:17:00.000-06:00

Congrats to TANJI JOHNSON on winning Inspirational Competitor of the Year at the 3rd Annual FitGems Awards!

Photo credit: IFBBPro.com

Inspiration comes from a lot of things; willing to come back from injury, showing people you can do it despite the odds, never giving up on your dreams, etc. Tanji Johnson is the definition of inspiration. She has come ever so close to capturing the Fitness Olympia AND Fitness International title on several occasions over the past few years. Many call her the best that has yet to win a major fitness title. What people see in her is her drive to be a top competitor and the heart she has for the sport she loves. I feel after her competiton days are over, she will continue to be an inspiration to others.

Runner-up: Jennifer Gates

Others nominates includes Mandy Henderson, Malikia Soto, Mah Ann Mendoza, and Ann Titone

3rd Annual FitGems Awards: Comeback of the Year

2012-01-13T21:23:00.001-06:00

Congrats to MINDI O'BRIEN for winning Comeback of the Year at the 3rd Annual FitGems Awards!

Photo credit: RxMuscle.com

We all love a good comeback story, and there were quite a bit of them. Mindi's comeback was a great one, however it has a bittersweet ending for fitness fans. Mindi returned to the fitness stage in 2011 at the Toronto Pro Supershow, placing 3rd in fitness, qualifying her for the 2011 Fitness Olympia. Back complications kept her from competing at the event, but she decided to compete at the first-ever Arnold Classic Europe Fitness, placing in 6th place. Shortly after competing there, she announced that she would retire from the sport. This is a big blow to fitness, as she was viewed as Canada's top fitness competitor at one point in time. Despite not winning an Arnold or Olympia, she will be viewed among the best in the history of the IFBB Fitness division.

Runner-up: Jennifer Gates

Others nominated include Mah Ann Mendoza, Amanda Hatfield, Helle Neilson, and Dorit Silverman.

3rd Annual FitGems Awards: Competitor Who You Would Love to See Return To the Stage in 2012

2012-01-13T20:48:00.001-06:00

Congrats to JENNY LYNN on winnning the FitGems Award for Competitor Who You Would Love to See Return To the Stage in 2012 at the 3rd Annual FitGems Awards!

Photo credit: IFBBPro.com

Competitors come and go, but there are those that many of us feel should give it one final shot. Jenny Lynn is someone many of you would love to see return to the stage one more time (based off your votes). It would be nice to see how she would match up with Nicole Wilkins, Erin Stern, Ava Cowan, Candace Keene, Heather Dees, and the new breed of IFBB figure competitors. Jenny's physique has never really been on the vascular, hard side (which is what Davana Media was during the early days of figure), but more of the full, athletic side, which is seemingly what the IFBB wants these days. I honestly think Jenny can go one more round and show the newbies how to get the job done in the world of figure. She wasn't a multi-time Figure International and Figure Olympia champion for nothing!

Runner-up: Lenda Murray

Other nominated include Valerie Waugaman, Christine Pomponio-Pate, Heidi Sullivan, and Danny-J.

3rd Annual FitGems Awards: Fitness Personality of the Year

2012-01-13T20:12:00.000-06:00

Congrats to JAMIE EASON on winning Fitness Personality of the Year at the 3rd Annual FitGems Awards!

Photo credit: Myfittribe.com

The minute the name "Jamie Eason" was put on the ballot for Fitness Personality of the Year, it seemed to be a matter of who would be the runner-up (which will be listed below). Jamie is one of the biggest names in this industry, and I'm not talking top competitor big, I mean, mainstream-people-know-her-easy name. She has appeared in a few mainstream projects here and there. The best feature about Jamie is not her physique (which is definitely nothing shabby), but her kind heart and respect for others. She's also seen by many as a role model who has battled and tamed cancer. When it comes to fitness personalities, Miss Eason (soon to be Mrs. Eason, yes she's off the market, fellas) is in a league of her own.

Runner-up: Jillian Michaels and Jennifer Nicole Lee (tied)

Others nominated included Brittany Beede, Danny J, and Aubrie Richeson

3rd Annual FitGems Awards: Moment of the Year

2012-01-12T21:44:00.000-06:00

Congrats to Jr. Nationals 2011, where every figure class winner was of color (first in NPC history)at the 3rd Annual FitGems Awards!

True words can't do this photo justice.
Photo credit: RxMuscle.com

There are moments in this industry that can forever change the industry, for better or worse. The moment that won this award was definitely for the better. The 2011 Jr. Nationals crowned several IFBB Pros, like they do every year, but last year was different. Each figure class winner was of African-American aka black decent. This is significant because that has NEVER happened in the history of the NPC. I'm of color, so this meant a LOT to me to see all six of these women win their respective classes. If you want to read more about how I felt about this personally, click here.

Runner-up: First-ever Arnold Classic Europe Fitness

Others nominated include First-ever IFBB event in India (Sheru Classic), Mindi O’Brien announcing retirement from fitness, Dayana Cadeau and Mah Ann Mendoza announcing their retirements from female bodybuilding at the Olympia, and Nicole Nagrani winning the first-ever Bikini International.

3rd Annual FitGems Awards: NPC Show of the Year

2012-01-12T21:11:00.000-06:00

Congrats to NATIONALS on winnning NPC Show of the Year at the 3rd Annual FitGems Awards!

Photo credit: Bodybuilding.com

With the addition of women's physique (and men's physique for that matter), records were being shattered like crazy this year in terms of competitor participation. The NPC Nationals is usually the biggest NPC show of the year, but it was taken into overdrive in 2011 with close to 1,000 competitors (Keep in mind that was not any fitness classes or masters classes)! In total, 4 female bodybuilders, 6 women's physique competitors, 6 figure competitors, and 6 bikini competitors turned pro. In other words, 22 women entered the IFBB during Nationals weekend. That's a lot of pro cards!

Runner-up: Jr. Nationals

Others nominated include Jr. USAs, USAs, Team Universe, and North Americans.

3rd Annual FitGems Awards: IFBB Show of the Year

2012-01-12T18:34:00.001-06:00

Congrats to OLYMPIA on winning IFBB Show of the Year at the 3rd Annual FitGems Awards!

Photo credit: IFBBPro.com

The Super Bowl of bodybuilding (as most would call it), the Olympia has showcased the best of the best the sports has to offer. Last year saw Adela Garcia and Iris Kyle continuing their dominant ways in fitness and women's bodybuilding, respectively. Nicole Wilkins regained the Figure Olympia title after losing the title to Erin Stern a year earlier, and Nicole Nagrani (at the age of 19) took her place among the Olympia elite by beating then-champion Sonia Gonzales to win the Bikini Olympia title. Next year will be more exclusive than before with new Olympia qualifications to bring only winners and special invites to the show. While the 2012 will be smaller in volume, it should increase by quality.

Runner-up: Arnold

Others nominated include Ft. Lauderdale Pro, St. Louis Pro, Toronto Pro Supershow, and Sheru Classic.

3rd Annual FitGems Awards: WBFF Show of the Year

2012-01-12T14:30:00.000-06:00

Congrats to WORLDS on winning the WBFF Show of the Year at the 3rd Annual FitGems Awards!

3X WBFF Pro Figure Champion Emily Stirling @ 2011 Worlds
Photo credit: WBFF official website

The WBFF is quickly becoming the fastest rising physique organizations in the world, and the WBFF Worlds is a testament to that. Stars like Chady Dunmore, Miryah Scott, Diana Chaloux LaCerte, Julie Bonnett, Alexandria Johnson, and more took to the stage to showcase the best the WBFF has to offer. Emily Stirling, who many call "The Face of the WBFF", reclaimed the Pro Figure World title she lost from Monica Brant in 2010, making Emily the organization's first-ever 3x World Champion. Every year, the WBFF gets bigger and better every year, so don't be surprised if the 2012 WBFF Worlds is absoultely CRAZY when it takes place in September!

Runner-up: Eastern U.S.

Others nominated include Alberta, Quebec, New England, and B.C.

3rd Annual FitGems Awards: Promoter of the Year

2012-01-12T09:38:00.000-06:00

Congrats to ANN AND JACK TITONE on winning Promoters of the Year at the 3rd Annual FitGems Awards!

Photo credit: Michelle Beck (posted first on Siouxcountry)

The Titones are among the most respected couples in this industry, with Jack being a nutritionist and Ann being a IFBB Figure Pro. They promoted the St. Louis Pro Figure and Bikini show in 2011 last year to a great response from the attendees, competitors, and those online. They will help anyone however they can when it comes to competition and just flat out being their for them. Expect more from the Titones heading into 2012 and beyond.

Runner-up:

Others nominated include Stryker X, Tim Gardner, Jon Lindsay, and Brent Jones.

3rd Annual FitGems Awards: Organization of the Year

2012-01-08T13:26:00.001-06:00

Congrats to IFBB on winning Organization of the Year at the 3rd Annual FitGems Awards!

Nicole Wilkins, the current face of IFBB Figure
Photo credit: MuscleContest.com

Promotions have been stepping up to provide better competition for those who want to compete, but one thing hasn't changed...the top promotion is still the International Federation of Bodybuilders. When you think of bodybuilding, the name IFBB comes to mine instantly, much like how people think of WWE instantly when the word wrestling is brought up. The IFBB has had its big moments in 2011, including hosting a figure show in India and fitness show in Spain for the first time ever. Competitors have cemented their legacies this year by winning and defending titles. Next year, the IFBB will introduce women's physique to their rankings and with their new Olympia qualification rules make their "Super Bowl" more prestigious than ever before. If you thought the IFBB was big now, just wait until 2012.

Runner-up: NPC

Others nominated include WBFF, INBF, NABBA, and Fitness America/Universe

3rd Annual FitGems Awards: Female Physique Site of the Year

2012-01-05T21:32:00.000-06:00

Congrats to SIOUXCOUNTRY on winning Female Physique Site of the Year at the 3rd Annual FitGems Awards!

Photo of Abbye Eville, which represents Siouxcountry and what they represent.
Photo credit: Siouxcountry's Facebook's fan page

It's awesome to see more and more sites being established for the females in this industry, but when it comes to impact on the females in this industry, Siouxcountry is tops. Many competitors from different organizations enter the site to talk about the industry, view preview photos, sell suits, and get the (to me) best contest coverage around. Plus, what other site has photo gatherings at contests?!?! Many have done better in their contests by joining Siouxcountry. People get to know each other better because of this site. I can honestly say that if it wasn't for that site, many friendships and partnerships would probably would be in existence. A site is only a good as its members, and I can honestly say that Jason Lannigan (aka Sioux), the amazing moderators there (who I respect greatly), and all the members there make Siouxcountry like no other site in the industry. To visit and join the site, go to http://www.siouxcountry.com.

Runner-up: Fitness Rx (http://www.fitnessrxmag.com/)

Others nominated include Promoting Real Women (http://promotingwomen.blogspot.com), Hardbody News (http://www.hardbody.com/news), Rx Girl (http://www.rxmuscle.com/rx-girl-home.html), and Fit Model TV (http://fitmodeltv.wordpress.com).

3rd Annual FitGems Awards: Female Competitor Blog of the Year

2012-01-05T21:06:00.000-06:00

Congrats to MINDI O'BRIEN on winning Female Competitor Blog of the Year at the 3rd Annual FitGems Awards!

Photo credit: RxMuscle

Some competitors share a blog with their fans, so they can keep up with what they are doing. Some use blogs as training blogs, some use it to share their recipes and daily lives and tips with their fans. For some, a blog is their actual website. Mindi O'Brien has used her blog for this and more. She announced her retirement on her blog. While she will be missed on the competition scene, expect her to update her blog with news on her and her fitness team, Team O'Brien. To visit her blog, go to http://mindiobrien.blogspot.com/.

Runner-up: Stacy Wright (http://stacywrightfitness.blogspot.com/)

Other nominated include Ashley Cooper (http://ashleycooperfitness.blogspot.com), Ester Alexander (http://estheralexander.blogspot.com),Nikki Roxx (http://healthhugsandheadlocks.blogspot.com/), and Cindy Phillips (http://cindyphillips.blogspot.com/).

3rd Annual FitGems Awards: Facebook Female Fan Page of the Year

2012-01-05T00:15:00.001-06:00

Congrats to AVA COWAN on winning Facebook Female Fan Page of the Year at the 3rd Annual FitGems Awards!

Photo credit: Ava Cowan's Facebook fan page

When it comes to popularity, there are VERY FEW that have the fan base like Ava. That was made perfectly clear as she overwhelmed everyone else in this category.Ava is one of the most devoted competitors out there when it comes to making her fans happy. Everything you would want to know about Ava, all you have to do is "like" her on Facebook. It's great to see competitors use the social media machine to get closer to their fans, and Ava is among the best, if not THE best, at this. If you haven't done so yet, go on and "like" her at https://www.facebook.com/AvaCowanOnline.

Runner-up: Monica Brant (https://www.facebook.com/monicabrantfanpage)

Others nominated include Brittany Beede (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Brittany-Beede/175975545820582), Danny-J and Aubrie Richeson, AKA the Sweaty Betties (https://www.facebook.com/TheSweatyBetties) Tracy Bodner (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Tracy-IslandGirl-Bodner-Fan-Page/224878527524596) and Tonya Burkhardt (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Tonya-Burkhardt-IFBB-Fitness-Pro/115849285092492)

3rd Annual FitGems Awards: Photographer of the Year

2012-01-04T22:59:00.000-06:00

Congrats to DAN RAY on winning Photographer of the Year at the 3rd Annual FitGems Awards!

Photo of Heather Dees. Photo credit: Dan Ray's Facebook

Dan Ray has become one of the most requested photographers in the industry today. His photos are all over the place. There's a very good chance you've seen them on several official websites and Facebook fan pages. His photos are also located on some contest sites as well, such as RxMuscle. Don't be surprised if you see more of Dan Ray's work in 2012. BTW, despite us having the same last name, we are not related in any way whatsoever. LOL.

Runner-up: Isaac Hinds

Others nominated include Marc Thyssen, Bill Comstock, Jeff Binns, and Mike Eckstut.

3rd Annual FitGems Awards: Blogger of the Year

2012-01-04T22:17:00.002-06:00

Congrats to ISAAC HINDS on winning Blogger of the Year at the 3rd Annual FitGems Awards!

Photo credit: Bodybuilding.com

Isaac Hinds is no stranger to speaking his peace when it comes to things. Whether you like his opinions or not, he's gonna to tell you about the industry and the people in it as he sees fit (no pun intended). Do you have to like it? NO. Do you have to read his stuff? NO. But those that do tend to have somewhat of a better understanding of the industry. On his predictions, he's usually about right on things. I'm not saying bet the barn every time he makes a prediction on his blog, but I would take his stuff seriously if I were you.

Runner-up: Jason Adams

Others nominated include Dean Sucich, GeneX, Carl Burkins (dallas3), and Area Orion.

3rd Annual FitGems Awards: Industry Blog of the Year

2012-01-04T00:51:00.000-06:00

Congrats to HARDBODY NEWS for Industry Blog of the Year at the 3rd Annual FitGems Awards!

Photo credit: Hardbody.com (old logo)

For many people (including yours truly), Hardbody News was the first blog to inform me of female muscle news and content. They have interview, show previews and reviews, photoshoot previews, etc. Other blogs are stepping up to the plate, but based off the votes received, Hardbody News still remains the best of the best when it comes to industry blogs. To view the blog, go to http://www.hardbody.com/news.

Runner-up: Promoting Real Women (http://promotingwomen.blogspot.com)

Others nominated included KrivStudios Blog (http://krivstudiosblog.wordpress.com/), Fit Model TV (http://fitmodeltv.wordpress.com), Area Orion (http://areaorion.blogspot.com), and Female Muscle Universe (http://femalemuscleuniverse.blogspot.com).

3rd Annual FitGems Awards: Industry Facebook Fan Page of the Year

2012-01-03T09:17:00.000-06:00

Congrats to HARDBODY NEWS on winning Industry Facebook Fan Page of the Year at the 3rd Annual FitGems Awards.

Photo credit: Hardbody Facebook Fan Page

Facebook has become almost a necessity for competitors to make it big in the industry, almost as important as official sites themselves. And it's not just the competitors getting into the fan page movement, but industry members as well. And Hardbody News knows how to use it effectively. As of late, motivational pictures have been posted daily, as well as preview shots from Hardbody. The fan page does what it needs to do: give enough for fans to "like" the page. Good job to Hardbody News! If you haven't done so yet, "Like" them at https://www.facebook.com/hardbodynews.

Runner-up: Siouxcountry (https://www.facebook.com/siouxcountryfb)

Others nominated included Fit Model TV (https://www.facebook.com/FitModelTV), Promoting Women in BodybuildingFitness and MMA (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Promoting-Women-In-Bodybuilding-Fitness-and-MMA/112681648755406) , No Division Left Behind; Women’sBodybuilding (https://www.facebook.com/fbbnotleaving), and Marc Thyssen Photography (https://www.facebook.com/MarcThyssenPhotography).

3rd Annual FitGems Awards: Female Celebrity Muscle of the Year

2012-01-01T23:13:00.002-06:00

Congrats to WWE Diva KAITLYN on winning Female Celebrity Muscle of the Year at the 3rd Annual FitGems Awards!

Photo credit: WWE.com

It's awesome to see females in the celebrity world put on a bit of muscle these days. More and more ladies are realizing that FIT is in and SKINNY is just not cutting it these days. It's even cooler when one of our own is part of that celebrity spotlight showing off an amazing figure. That's the case with former figure competitor Celeste Bonin, who now goes by the name of Kaitlyn in WWE. Since winnning NXT Season 3, Kaitlyn has went on to become one of WWE's most popular Divas on the Smackdown brand. Her wrestling has come a long way since NXT and her physique has slimmed down from her NXT days, but don't you DARE mistake her for a cookie-cutter bimbo. She has shown that she can talk the talk and walk the walk, and we at FitGems expect great things from this Diva in the new year. Divas Champion in 2012?! We hope so!!

Runner-up: Kelly Ripa

Others nominated include Elizabeth Hasslebeck, Hope Solo, Poppy Montgomery, and Trish Stratus

3rd Annual FitGems Awards: Physique Paysite of the Year

2012-01-01T22:44:00.001-06:00

Congrats to HERBICEPS.COM on winning Physique Paysite of the Year at the 3rd Annual FitGems Awards!

Photo credit: Herbiceps.com

Herbiceps.com is one of the originators when it comes to physique content, and to this day still delivers with some of the best contest for fans to enjoy. Their site is updated on a weekly and/or bi-weekly basis, and you get more than your money's worth. New models plus their MASSIVE archive of material makes this a must-join for female muscle fans everywhere. To check them out, visit them at http://www.herbiceps.com.

Runner-up: Female Power (http://www.female-power.net)

Others nominated included HDPhysiques (www.hdphysiques.com), KrivsStudio(http://www.krivsstudio.com/), Awefilms (www.awefilms.com), and Femflex (www.femflex.com).

3rd Annual FitGems Awards: Male Supporter of the Year

2012-01-01T22:25:00.000-06:00

Congrats to ISAAC HINDS on winning Male Supporter of the Year at the 3rd Annual FitGems Awards!

Photo credit: Examiner.com

He's been called a nerd (among other funny things), but there's one thing that can't be denied: he does what he can to support the ladies in this industry. His opinions on some things and some competitors might not be the most popular (there have been a few things that I have questioned at time), but most of the time, he seems to know what he's talking about. A supporter is someone who praises you for the good, and let's you know when you need to make some improvements, whether you want to admit them yourselves or not. I think Isaac fits that bill.

Runner-up: Jason Lannigan (Sioux)

Others nominated included Jason Adams, Jack Titone, Carl Burkins (dallas3), and Curt James.

3rd Annual FitGems Awards: Female Website of the Year

2012-01-01T21:30:00.000-06:00

Congrats to TANJI JOHNSON on winning Female Website of the Year at the 3rd Annual FitGems Awards!

Photo credit: Tanji's website

When one opens a website, people take notice. When one redoes a website, people take notice. That was apparently the case for one Tanji Johnson. Tanji recently redid her official website and people fell in love it with. It's cool-looking, easy to navigate, the whole nine yards. The best sites are those that you don't need a manual to view, and Tanji's site fits the bill perfectly. Don't believe me? Check it out for yourself at http://www.tanjijohnson.com.

Runner-up: Ann Titone (http://www.anntitone.com)

Others nominated included Mandy Henderson (www.mandyhenerson.com), Stephanie Wilkes (www.stephaniewilkes.com), Brittany Beede (www.brittanybfit.com), and Monica Escalante (www.monfit.com).

3rd Annual FitGems Awards: Supplement Company of the Year

2012-01-01T21:16:00.001-06:00

Congrats to GASPARI NUTRITION on winning Supplement Company of the Year at the 3rd Annual FitGems Awards!

Photo credit: Gaspari's website

Gaspari Nutrition has been one of the top leaders of supplements for quite some time. Those who use their products have achieved much success. When most people think of Gaspari, Ava Cowan is among the first females to come to mind. She's one of their premier athletes, along with other top stars such as Felicia Romero, Krissy Chin, Jamie Baird, Mariza Prince, and Trish Warren. Their tag is 'The Name You Trust. The Brand That Works". And based off the amount of votes Gaspari received (among the highest of ANY category), the tag lives up to the hype.

Runner-up: Optimum Nutrition

Other nominees included Scivation, BSN, MAN Sports, and Top Secret Nutrition.

3rd Annual FitGems Awards: Team of the Year

2012-01-01T20:59:00.001-06:00

Congrats to TEAM BOMBSHELL on winning Team of the Year at the 3rd Annual FitGems Awards!

Photo credit: MySpace

When it comes to working out, it's best to have a team with you to motivate you to be your very best. There may not be another team out there that has that motivation than Team Bombshell. Lead by Shannon Dey, this team has produced a whole lot of fitness, figure, and bikini competitors, many who have went on to win pro cards, contest, and stepped on the Olympia and Arnold stages. And something tells me that they're only getting started. Congrats Team Bombshell!

Runner-up: Tanji Johnson's Save Fitness

Others nominated were Total Package, Team Brownie, Team O'Brien, and Oddo's Angels

3rd Annual FitGems Awards: Trainer of the Year

2012-01-01T20:29:00.003-06:00

Congrats to KIM ODDO on winning Trainer of the Year at the 3rd Annual FitGems Awards!

Photo credit: Bodybuiding.com

Kim Oddo is no stranger to producing champions. His list of clients include current and past Arnold and Olympia champions such as Nicole Wilkins, Gina Aliotti, Monica Brant, and top names such as Amanda Latona, Ava Cowan, Laurie Vaniman, and others. It's no surprise why his list of clients grows each year. More success is on the horizon for Mr. Oddo. Cheers to you, champ!

Runner up: Erik Ledin

Others nominated were Jack Titone, Noel Fuller, Shannon Dey, and Mindi O'Brien.

2012 Arnold List Released

2011-12-22T13:24:00.001-06:00

It's OUT!!!! The 2012 Arnold list has just been released. Did you favorites make it on there?

2012 Ms. International (15)
Maria Rita Bello
Brigita Brezovac
Kim Buck
Tina Chandler
Alevtina Goroshinskaya
Monique Jones
Iris Kyle
Debi Laszewski
Cathy LeFrancois
Zoa Lindsey
Geraldine Morgan
Yaxeni Oriquen
Kim Perez
Alina Popa
Maria Segura

2012 Fitness International (17)
Michelle Blank
Jodi Boam
Myriam Capes
Regiane Da Silva
Tina Durkin
Allison Ethier
Adela Garcia
Oksana Grishina
Tanji Johnson
Diana Monteiro
Julie Palmer
Kayde Puckett
Camala Rodriguez
Daniella Ruban
Kizzy Vaines
Sheri Vucick
Bethany Wagner

2012 Figure International (16)
Jelena Abbou
Teresa Anthony
Cheryl Brown
Krissy Chin
Ava Cowan
Heather Dees
Alicia Harris
Raquel Hernandez
Candice Keene
Gloria Keplinger Tarpley
Sue Knott
Larissa Reis
Erin Stern
Gennifer Strobo
Latisha Wilder
Nicole Wilkins

2012 Bikini International (18)
Jennifer Andrews
Jaime Baird
Abbie Burrows
Juliana Daniell
Sonia Gonzales
Candyce Graham
Diana Graham
Jessica Jessie
Lexi Kaufman
Nathalia Melo
Justine Munro
Nicole Nagrani
India Paulino
Jessica Paxson
Natalie Pennington
Monique Ricardo
Tianna Ta
Christine Vargas

There will be more Arnold-related posts as we get closer to the big event. Until then, congrats to everyone that made the list! 2012 Arnold...here we come!!

Exclusive Interview with Cheerleader Anna Watson

2011-12-20T21:02:00.000-06:00

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!

Big Show Return in 2012...Who Should Be Next? Part 1

2011-12-16T09:13:00.000-06:00

I don't know if anyone has noticed this yet, but for the last couple of years, we've seen come big returns to the big stages: The Arnold and Olympia. In 2010, we saw the return of Mia Finnegan at the Fitness Olympia. In 2011, we saw the return of Jennifer Gates at this past Arnold's in the Figure International contest. The Arnold list will be posted very soon (possibly as soon as this week), and I was thinking...who else should make at least one more big show appearance in 2012? Here's a few choices I have (in no particular order) This will be done in a 3-part series, beginning with fitness. (There's a very good chance the Arnold list will be out before this series of post is completed, so keep that in mind.)

1. Tracey Greenwood

Tracey Greenwood is among the best competitors to never have won the Fitness International or Fitness Olympia title. During her time in fitness, she wowed the crowd with her routines and one of the best physiques to ever step on stage. Many people (including yours truly) were sad to hear of her retirement, as we all felt she could have been a great Fitness International and/or Fitness Olympia champion. It would be cool to see her on a Arnold and/or Olympia stage once again.

2. Susie Curry

Talk about leaving a mark on the scene! Before Adela became the queen of fitness, Susie Curry was the undisputed leader of the division, taking on all-comers with her trademark routines and compact physique. Very few have her impressive resume, with 4 Fitness International titles and 4 Fitness Olympia titles. There would be no doubt in my mind that should Susie ever come out of retirement, she could put herself right in the thick of things with Adela, Tanji, Myriam, and others and be right in the hunt for another Arnold or Olympia title.

3. Kim Scheideler

While some of you might not be TOO familiar with that name, you might be familiar with the name Kim Klein. Kim possessed a lower body that would make some BODYBUILDERS envious, that's how nicely developed it was. her entire physique was no weak sauce, believe you and me, but it was her legs that were the standout point throughout her career. Her routines were very enjoyable as well. She did win two Fitness International titles, and was close to winning a Fitness Olympia title. I think she could make another big show appearance down the road.

4. Julie Childs

In 2007, Julie Childs was hitting her stride as a fitness competitor, bringing her physique and routines to an all time best. She disappeared from the scene after the 2007 Olympia, and we haven't heard much from her since. She competed in the Arnold and Olympia a few times and placed relatively well each time, although there are some that feel she could have placed a bit higher. She came from the Fitness America organization and became a IFBB legend. It wouldn't be hard for her to make a return to fitness competition, especially on a stage like the Arnold or Olympia.

5. Jenny Worth

In 2011, she made her return to the stage via guest appearances. From what I've heard from many people, she has not lost a step in her routines. She can still go with the best of them. Physique-wise, she looks like she could just about hang with the best of them as well. During her prime, she was no stranger to the big dance, competing at the Arnold and Olympia and winning a Fitness International title and was VERY close to winning the Fitness Olympia title. Jenny has mentioned that she may very well return to competition one day. Could 2012 be the year she makes her return? And if so, would be it awesome to see it on the Arnold and/or Olympia stage?

That's Part 1 of the three-part series. Part 2 will focus on figure competitors, and part 3 will focus on female bodybuilders. I'm aware there are PLENTY more that could be on this list, but I decided to narrow the list down to five for each series. Let me know who I left out via a comment below or sending me a tweet @FitGemsNation, and your comments could be on a future follow-up post.

WWE Diva Eve Torres's Stairway to Heaven(ly) Body Workout

2011-12-14T21:42:00.001-06:00

WWE Superstars and Divas are known to have some of the most amazing bodies in entertainment, but there are those select few that love to take their physiques to the next level. One of those happens to be WWE Diva Eve Torres. Currently, she's partnered with Kelly Kelly and Alicia Fox as part of the "models" group of Divas going against the "wrestler" Divas Natalya and WWE Divas Champion Beth Phoenix, aka The Divas of Doom. The D.O.D. think the "models" are a joke to the Divas division and need to be out of WWE. Well...tell me, do you see ANYTHING Barbie doll or model about THIS workout? I DON'T THINK SO!

Whew!! I'm tired just WATCHING that!

Eve is known as one of WWE's top fitness fanatics, and this video proves why. She finds a way to make her workouts interesting and challenging, never doing the same thing twice, and as someone who has seen her on TV ever since her debut, in addition to seeing her in person during Wrestlemania 27 and a few WWE shows, the workouts have paid off. We at FitGems hope to see more videos from Eve in the near future and wish her all the best of luck in her persuit in fitness and in WWE. Yes, Eve, the FitGems Nation definitely beliEVEs in you!

For more on Eve, visit her website at http://www.evetorres.com, follow her on Twitter @EveMarieTorres, and like her on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/evetorresdotcom.

Sharing a TenSpot...with Gail Auerbach

2011-12-07T16:13:00.001-06:00

Gail Auerbach is part of the top muscle sites out there today, RxMuscle. She is the editor-in-chief of their female portion of the site, RxGirl, where she's known as "The Prodigy" Not only does she head up RxGirl, she's a NPC Middleweight Bodybuilder as well. Gail was gracious enough to take some time out of her busy schedule to conduct an interview with us.

Photo credit goes to Gail herself.

FitGems Nation: Let’s kick this off by telling us a bit about yourself.
Gail Auerbach: I live in Chi town and work as a first grade teacher. I have a whole ton of degrees in education and the love of my life is special education. Having a whole slew of disabilities myself these are the students I can relate well to. I am close with my family(especially my lil niece) and a core group of friends. I am pretty determined, a hard worker and will do anything to accomplish my goals.

FitGems: When did you first start competing?
Gail: My first local show was in 2007, which was when I first started lifting weights.

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?
Gail: This depends on whether I am dieting for a show or in my offseason. I usually will do AM fasted cardio and weight train in the evenings. Unless I am in prep and then I do cardio a few times a day!

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?)
Gail: Nope, I think looking at me it is pretty obvious!

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?
Gail: Absolutely! Which makes it better for all involved. I just don't want to see female bodybuilding disappear so I am hoping it continues in some fashion!

FitGems: In addition to competing, you are the head person of RxGirl (a part of RxMuscle). How did that come about?
Gail: I am extremely passionate about my job at RX Girl. I am blessed to be able to get to know so many wonderful female athletes and promote them on so many levels. When I got my minor in undergrad in PR, I really thought I would never use it, being a teacher, but I didn't want to graduate and leave college so I decided to get it. It's funny 11 years later to actually be using it! I kept nagging my diet guru, Dave Palumbo about wanting to "give back" and do more for the industry, but being a full time career driven teacher, I just didn't know how. He let me help behind the scenes at RX Muscle a bit and as the site started to grow he offered me the position. I was SO excited, I didn't sleep for a week! Now it is a dream to work with and for him and share the same vision and goals for the site. I encourage any women who may be reading this to contact me for promotional opportunities.

FitGems: Who in the fitness industry has been your biggest inspiration?
Gail: My boss, friend and diet guru Dave Palumbo, who has been my leading inspiration in life and enlightened me in numerous ways. Michael Liberatore who has been training me for years and never stops challenging and believing in me. All the middleweight female bodybuilders who graced the stage before me. I looked up to them!

FitGems: If you weren’t a part of the female physique world whatsoever, what would you be doing right now as your profession?
Gail: Exactly what I am doing...teaching little kids and loving it each and every day! (except when they bring their germs to school and get me sick! lol!)

FitGems: What (if anything) would you change about any of the IFBB female divisions?
Gail: I wouldn't change anything!Really!

FitGems: What advice do you have for anyone who wants to compete?
Gail: Make it your own journey and about you. Don't worry who else is on the stage or what other people say or look like. Find your support system who will be there for you and continue to push toward your own goals.

If you want to contact Gail, you can email her at GHAuerbach@yahoo.com. You can also "like" her on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Gail-Auerbach-Natl-Level-Body-Builder-Fan-Page/121950654537793.

3rd Annual FitGems Awards: And the Nominees Are...

2011-12-01T15:41:00.001-06:00

Thank you to everyone that nominated their favorites for the 3rd Annual FitGems Awards! Without further ado, here are the nominees:

COMPETITOR CATEGORIES

Pro Female Bodybuilder of the Year
Iris Kyle
Yaxeni Oriquen
Brigita Brezovac
Debi Laszewski
Alina Popa
Isabelle Turell

Pro Figure Competitor of the Year
Nicole Wilkins
Ava Cowan
Erin Stern
Kat Rameriz
Candice Keene
Ann Titone

Pro Fitness Competitor of the Year
Adela Garcia
Tanji Johnson
Nicole Duncan
Michelle Blank
Tina Durkin
Stacy Wright

Pro Bikini Competitor of the Year
Nicole Nagrani
Sonia Gonzales
Amanda Latona
Jamie Baird
Nathalia Melo
Vanessa Campbell

Amateur Female Bodybuilder of the Year
Michelle Brent
Amanda Alger
Kira Neuman
Kimmie Morgan
Judy Gallard
Cynthia Colon

Amateur Figure Competitor of the Year
Wendy Fortino
Allison Moyer
Joni Neilson
Allison Frahn
Shelly Albetta
Cheryl Davis

Amateur Fitness Competitor of the Year
Amanda Hatfield
Lisha Dean
Meredith Miller
Sheri Vucick
Whitney Jones
Viko Newman

Amateur Bikini Competitor of the Year
Diana Graham
Candace Grayam
India Paulino
Noe Alexander
Skye Taylor
Jennifer Rankin

Amateur Physique Competitor of the Year
Jill Rudison
Jillian Reville
Rachel Baker
Tracy Bodner
Susie Fuller Torres
Dana Bailey

International Female Bodybuilder of the Year (Pro or Amateur)
Brigita Brezovac
Debi Laszewski
Alina Popa
Yaxeni Oriquen
Maria Rite Bello
Dayana Cadeau

International Fitness Competitor of the Year (Pro or Amateur)
Myriam Capes
Jodi Boam
Regaine De Silva
Mindi O’Brian
Oksana Grishina
Minna Pajulahti

International Figure Competitor of the Year (Pro or Amateur)
Larissa Reis
Rachelle Chase
Tracey MacDonald
Emily Stirling
Rosa Marie Romero
Candice John

International Bikini Competitor of the Year (Pro or Amateur)
Nathalia Melo
Jelena Abbou
Dina Al-Sabah
Justine Monro
Noemi Olah
Willeke Verhaar-Davis

Breakout Pro Female Bodybuilder of the Year
Monique Jones
Brigita Brezovac
Alina Popa
Sarah Hayes
Claire O’Connell
Angela Salvagno

Breakout Pro Figure Competitor of the Year
Sabrina Taylor
Candice Keene
Ava Cowan
Ann Titone
Teresa Anthony
Alicia Harris

Breakout Pro Fitness Competitor of the Year
Michelle Blank
Jodi Boam
Camala Rodriguez
Nicole Duncan
Myriam Capes
Stacy Wright

Breakout Pro Bikini Competitor of the Year
Christina Vargas
Diana Graham
Nathalia Melo
Vanessa Campbell
Jennifer Andrews
Jamie Baird

Breakout Amateur Female Bodybuilder of the Year
Michelle Cummings
Amanda Alger
Cynthia Colon
Pat Wentz
Pam Franklin
Judy Gallard

Breakout Amateur Figure Competitor of the Year
Tracey MacDonald
Yolanda Alvarado
Sue Knott
Essence Moneti
Laura Bailey
Wendy Fortino

Breakout Amateur Fitness Competitor of the Year
Amanda Hatfield
Paula Williams-Guliman
Sheri Vucick
Regan Grossman
Meredith Miller
Cicely Kyle

Breakout Amateur Bikini Competitor of the Year
Sherrie Carnicle
Candyce Graham
Diana Graham
India Paulino
Noy Alexander
Rebecca Staggs

Breakout Amateur Physique Competitor of the Year
Rachel Baker
Nikki Warner
Tracy Bodner
Cheryl Cooke
Dana Bailey
Jennifer Robinson

Inspirational Competitor of the Year
Mah Ann Mendoza
Tanji Johnson
Mikalia Soto
Jennifer Gates
Mandy Henderson
Ann Titone

Comeback of the Year
Mah Ann Mendoza
Amanda Hatfield
Helle Neilson
Mindi O’Brien
Dorit Silverman
Jennifer Gates

Competitor Who You Would Love to See Return To the Stage in 2012
Valerie Waugaman
Danny-J
Christine Pomponio-Pate
Jenny Lynn
Heidi Sullivan
Lenda Murray

Fitness Personality of the Year (Model/Trainer/Spokesperson)
Brittany Beede
Jillian Michaels
Jennifer Nicole Lee
Danny-J
Aubrie Richeson
Jamie Eason

Moment of the Year
Jr. Nationals 2011, where every figure class winner was of color (first in NPC history)
First-ever IFBB event in India (Sheru Classic)
First-ever Arnold Class Europe Fitness
Mindi O’Brien announcing retirement from fitness
Dayana Cadeau and Mah Ann Mendoza announcing their retirements from female bodybuilding at the Olympia
Nicole Nagrani winning the first-ever Bikini International

MISC. Categories

NPC Show of the Year
Nationals
Jr. Nationals
Jr. USAs
USAs
Team Universe
North Americans

IFBB Show of the Year
Olympia
Arnold
Ft. Lauderdale Pro
St. Louis Pro
Toronto Pro Supershow
Sheru Classic

WBFF Show of the Year
Worlds
Alberta
New England
Quebec
Eastern US
B.C.

Promoter(s) of the Year
Jack and Ann Titone
Stryker X
Ed & Betty Pariso
Tim Gardner
Jon Lindsay
Brent Jones

Organization of the Year
IFBB
NPC
WBFF
INBF
NABBA
Fitness America/Universe

Female Physique Site of the Year (non-competitor) (NOTE: FitGems is NOT eligible due the fact that FitGems is running the contest)
Siouxcountry
Promoting Real Women
Hardbody News
Rx Girl
Fitness Rx
Fit Model TV

Female Competitor Blog of the Year
Ashley Cooper (http://ashleycooperfitness.blogspot.com)
Mindi O’Brien (http://mindiobrien.blogspot.com/)
Stacy Wright (http://stacywrightfitness.blogspot.com/)
Ester Alexander (http://estheralexander.blogspot.com)
Nikki Roxx (http://healthhugsandheadlocks.blogspot.com/)
Cindy Phillips (http://cindyphillips.blogspot.com/)

Facebook Female Fan Page of the Year
Brittany Beede
Ava Cowan
Monica Brant Fan Page
Danny-J and Aubrie Richeson the Sweaty Betties
Tracy Bodner
Tonya Burkhardt-IFBB Fitness Pro

Photographer of the Year
Marc Thyssen
Bill Comstock
Dan Ray
Isaac Hinds
Jeff Binns
Mike Eckstut

Blogger of the Year
Jason Adams
Isaac Hinds
Dean Sucich
GeneX
Carl Burkins (dallas3)
Area Orion

Industry Blog of the Year (by a fan, industry member, company, etc.)
Promoting Real Women (http://promotingwomen.blogspot.com)
Hardbody News (http://www.hardbody.com/news)
KrivStudios Blog (http://krivstudiosblog.wordpress.com/)
Fit Model TV (http://fitmodeltv.wordpress.com)
Area Orion (http://areaorion.blogspot.com)
Female Muscle Universe (http://femalemuscleuniverse.blogspot.com)

Industry Facebook Fan Page of the Year
Fit Model TV
Siouxcountry
Promoting Women in Bodybuilding Fitness and MMA
Hardbody News
No Division Left Behind; Women’s Bodybuilding
Marc Thyssen Photography

Female Celebrity Muscle of the Year
Elizabeth Hasslebeck
Kelly Ripa
Hope Solo
Poppy Montgomery
Celeste Bonin (WWE’s Kaitlyn)
Trish Stratus

Physique Paysite of the Year
HerBiceps (www.herbiceps.com)
HDPhysiques (www.hdphysiques.com)
KrivsStudio (http://www.krivsstudio.com/)
Female-Power (www.female-power.net)
Awefilms (www.awefilms.com)
Femflex (www.femflex.com)

Male Supporter of the Year
Jason Lannigan (Sioux)
Jason Adams
Curt James
Jack Titone
Carl Burkins (dallas3)
Isaac Hinds

Female Website Site of the Year
Mandy Henderson (www.mandyhenerson.com)
Stephanie Wilkes (www.stephaniewilkes.com)
Ann Titone (www.anntitone.com)
Brittany Beede (www.brittanybfit.com)
Monica Escalante (www.monfit.com)
Tanji Johnson (www.tanjijohnson.com)

Supplement Company of the Year
Scivation
Gaspari Nutrition
BSN
Top Secret Nutrition
MAN Sports
Optimum Nutrition

Team of the Year
Team Bombshell
Total Package
Team Brownie
Tanji Johnson’s Save Fitness
Team O’Brien
Oddo's Angels

Trainer of the Year
Jack Titone
Kim Oddo
Noel Fuller
Shannon Dey
Mindi O'Brien
Erik Ledin

To vote for your favorites:

1. Email your votes at admin@fitgemsnation.net (Put 2011 FitGems Awards in the subject line) YOU CAN VOTE ONCE PER DAY PER EMAIL. No daily mutiple emails will be accepted. Those will be thrown out.
2. If you have Twitter, you can tweet your votes to http://twitter.com/fitgemsnation and use the hashtag #2011FitGemsAwards. Remember, if you do this, state the category as well as your choice for that particular category. YOU CAN DO THIS AS MUCH AS YOU CAN...JUST MAKE SURE YOU DON'T GO TO TWITTER JAIL! LOL...
3. If you're a member of the following sites, you can send me your votes via private message:

Siouxcountry (under cray17)
RxMuscle (under FitGems)
FTVideo (under cray2005)
Unreal Muscle (under FitGems)
Muscular Development (under cray17)

4. You can vote on our online poll at http://www.misterpoll.com/polls/543717. Vote as many times as you can here!

Do you have to vote for ALL the categories?! NO, however...It would be nice if you could, though.To the nominees: let your fans know that you are nominated for awards and get them to vote for you! All voting stops when the ball drops in New York (which means Midnight/11 Central). In other words, when New York City rings in 2012, no more votes will be accepted. Winners will be announced in mid-January.

GOOD LUCK TO ALL THE PARTICIPANTS!!!

The Warrens to be on National TV

2011-11-16T11:54:00.001-06:00

Photo credit: Bodybuilding.com

It's awesome to see those in our industry to be part of mainstream television. On her Twitter account (http://twitter.com/trishwarren), Trish Warren mentioned that her and her husband Branch will be on the Discovery Channel in the near future! Here's her exact Tweet:

Branch and I filmed a documentary for the Discovery Channel, I will keep you posted on when it will air!

So as soon as I hear word of this, I'll pass this information down to you all. So, if you haven't gotten the Discovery Channel, now would be a great time to get it. Congrats to the Warrens! Hope many of you all tune in!

Sharing a TenSpot with...Amanda Hatfield

2011-11-02T12:56:00.000-05:00

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.

3rd Annual FitGems Awards-NOMINATE YOUR FAVORITES!

2011-10-24T15:20:00.001-05:00

The 3rd annual FitGems Awards are right around the corner, and we hope to make it in the words of WWE' 12,"Bigger. Badder. Better" than ever before! The categories have changed a bit with new categories entering the fray:

Nominate UP TO FIVE people for the following categories, with the top 6 names for each category to be put on the ballot:

COMPETITORCATEGORIES

Pro Female Bodybuilder of the Year
Pro Figure Competitor of the Year
Pro Fitness Competitor of the Year

Pro Bikini Competitor of the Year
Amateur Female Bodybuilder of the Year

Amateur Figure Competitor of the Year
Amateur Fitness Competitor of the Year
Amateur Bikini Competitor of the Year
Amateur Physique Competitor of the Year NEW
International Female Bodybuilder of the Year (Pro or Amateur)
International Fitness Competitor of the Year (Pro or Amateur)
International Figure Competitor of the Year (Pro or Amateur)
International Bikini Competitor of the Year (Pro or Amateur)
Breakout Pro Female Bodybuilder of the Year
Breakout Pro Figure Competitor of the Year
Breakout Pro Fitness Competitor of the Year
Breakout Pro Bikini Competitor of the Year
Breakout Amateur Female Bodybuilder of the Year
Breakout Amateur Figure Competitor of the Year
Breakout Amateur Fitness Competitor of the Year
Breakout Amateur Bikini Competitor of the Year

Breakout Amateur Physique Competitor of the Year NEW
Rookie Competitor of the Year (any division; must have competed starting THISYEAR) NEW

Inspirational Competitor of the Year NEW

Comeback of the Year NEW
Competitor Who You Would Love to See Return To the Stage in 2012
Fitness Personality of the Year (Model/Trainer/Spokesperson) (formerly named Fitness Entrepreneur of the Year)
Moment of the Year (when certain people win a competition, return to thestage, retire, etc. This is for any federation and can be about any of thedivisions)

MISC. Categories

NPC Show of the Year
IFBB Show of the Year
WBFF Show of the Year NEW

Promoter of the Year NEW
Organization of the Year NEW
Female Physique Site of the Year (non-competitor) (NOTE: FitGems is NOTeligible due the fact that FitGems is running the contest)
Female Competitor Blog of the Year
Facebook Fan Page of the Year (Competitor/Fitness Personality) NEW
Photographer of the Year
Blogger of the Year
Industry Blog of the Year (by a fan, industry member, company, etc.)
Industry Facebook Fan Page of the Year NEW
Female Celebrity Muscle of the Year NEW
Physique Paysite of the Year
Male Supporter of the Year (through shows, message boards, donations tocompetitors, etc.)
Female Competitor Site of the Year
Supplement Company of the Year
Team of the Year NEW

Trainer of theYear NEW

Voting for the Ones to Watch will be a bit different from previous years. You can nominate up to three people from now until the end of the year, and during the FitGems Awards Ceremony, we'll announced the top five names of those to watch in the coming year in each category below:

Pro Figure Competitors
Pro Fitness Competitors
Pro Bikini Competitors
Pro Women's Physique Competitors
Amateur Female Bodybuilders
Amateur Figure Competitors
Amateur Fitness Competitors
Amateur Bikini Competitors
Amateur Women's Physique Competitors
Fitness Personality (Model/Trainer/Spokesperson) (formerly Fitness Entrepreneur)

You can send your nominations through Twitter (http://twitter.com/fitgemsnation) using hashtag #FitGemsAwards2011, email your nominations (admin@fitgemsnation.net), or leave a comment on this post on our Facebook fan page (http://www.facebook.com/fitgemsnation). I'll also take your nominations through private messages (PMs) through the following message boards:

Siouxcountry (under cray17)
RxMuscle (under FitGems)
FTVideo (under cray2005)
Unreal Muscle (under FitGems)
Muscular Development (under cray17)

You can nominate between now and Wednesday, November 30th. On December 2nd, check back on the blog for the official list of nominees. After that, voting will begin that same day and will last through the rest of December, with the winners announced sometime in mid-January (Exact date and format of the announcement of nominees to be determined on a later date).

Good luck to everyone! :)

Mindi O'Brien Retires from Fitness

2011-10-21T22:39:00.000-05:00

Fitness lost one of its top competitors today, as Mindi O'Brien announced via Youtube today that she is retiring from fitness competition. It sucks to leave a sport or anything you love for so long due to an injury. She's had a great career spanning 14 years, with great routines and what some people call one of the best physiques in fitness history, capped off by her trademark arms that would give any female bodybuilder a run for their money. Some of her highlights include competing in 6 straight Fitness Olympias (although she was qualified for 7, but skipped out of this year's show due to injury) and 5 straight Arnold Classics. She would finish her career at the first-ever Arnold Classic Europe, placing 6th.

Photo credit: RxMuscle.com

Here's a video of Mindi during her trip to Spain (including her fitness routine and posing round) and announcing her retirement from fitness:

What does the future hold for her? We're unsure, but we think she will stick around in the fitness industry in some form or capacity. We at FitGems Nation congratulate Mindi on an incredible journey, and we wish her the best of luck in the next chapter of her life!

Tanji Johnson Wins Arnold Classic Europe Fitness

2011-10-09T16:09:00.000-05:00

Photo credit: Rx Muscle

History was made this weekend at the first-ever Arnold Classic Europe took place. Tanji Johnson, one of the top competitors in fitness and according to many a future Fitness Olympia and/or Fitness International champion, will forever be in the history books as the first-ever Arnold Classic Europe Fitness champion. Bethany Cisternino took 2nd, Regiane DeSilva took 3rd place. Here are the full results as well as scorecard for this historic event:

1. Tanji Johnson
2. Bethany Cisternino
3. Regiane DeSilva
4. Myriam Capes
5. Tina Durkin
6. Mindi O'Brien
7. Diana Monteiro
8. Kayde Puckett

Photo cradit: IFBBPro.com

Congrats to Tanji on the win, and to everyone that competed at the Arnold Classic Europe! You all made history this weekend!

IFBB Advisory Rule about Competition Contracts and No-Show at Finals

2011-10-01T18:13:00.001-05:00

This was released last week, from the IFBB:

Credit: IFBBPro.com

Let's start with the athlete competition contract ruling. There are those that take their time and want to see who else is competing and maybe they will wait until the very last minute to send in a contract. With this new ruling, that will be reduced dramatically as competitors MUST submit their contracts no later than a month (30 days) before the competition they plan to enter. And if they DO wait, they gotta pay up to the tune of 200 dollars. So make up your mind early, folks, and go ahead and submit those contracts.

As far as the no-show at finals are concerned, good ruling on that as well. If you make it, don't bail out unless you have a legitimate excuse. If you're literally feeling like you're gonna pass out, then you clearly excused from the finals. Your health is more important than a trophy and a spot at the Olympia. But if you're skipping to be skipping, you better hope it's a VERY GOOD excuse, because it's gonna cost ya $1,000. And until it's paid off, you will be kept from competing elsewhere.

While I personally love these rulings, some of you might not. What are YOUR thoughts on the new IFBB rulings? Post them below.

New Olympia Qualifications for 2012 and Beyond

2011-09-24T21:40:00.000-05:00

For those unaware, the 2012 Olympia is aiming to be more elite with some new changes. Here's the official IFBB Advisory Notice on Olympia qualifications, beginning next year:

Photo credit: IFBB Pro

When you stop to think about it, it's a great way to make the Olympia more special then it already is. Yes, this does mean there will be LESS competitors on the Olympia stage from this point forward, but the Olympia is supposed to represent the absolute BEST of this industry, right? I have no problem with it. Besides, For those divisions that might lack a few competitors, invites could be issued. So placing in the top 3 in ANY competition is still important, as it can do a long way in possibly seeing yourself on the Olympia stage beginning next year and the years to come. Also, there's men's and women's physique that's going to be part of the Olympia soon. The rest of this year's shows are NOT affected by this rule. This will take place at the start of the 2012 season.

What are YOUR thoughts on the new Olympia qualifications? Post your responses below or send us a tweet to our Twitter at FitGemsNation.

2011 Olympia Webcast Details

2011-09-14T11:07:00.001-05:00

The good folks at Bodybuilding.com will once again be providing a free webcast of the Olympia, taking place this weekend. Here's the direct link to the Olympia webcast:

http://streaming.bodybuilding.com/2011-olympia-webcast/

Mr Olympia prejudging, Ms Olympia Finals, Fitness Olympia Finals & Bikini Olympia Finals will take place on Friday evening. with the finals of Mr Olympia & Figure Olympia taking place on Saturday evening.Women's prejudging will not be live via Webcast, however the prejudging is usually taped by Bodybuilding.com, so they will probably post the video a few days after the Olympia has concluded.

Current WWE Diva To Return to Her Roots

2011-09-11T23:51:00.001-05:00

For weeks and weeks, Gaspari Nutrition has been promoting their first-ever live broadcast from the 2011 Olympia, and with good reason. It's a big event in itself because Gaspari Nurtition is among the biggest supplement companies on the planet (and a former FitGems award winner, FYI). But it's also a major big deal because of who's hosting the event...Current WWE Diva Kaitlyn!

Photo credit: WWE.com

Kaitlyn, a former NPC Figure competitor, will be returning to her fitness roots as she will be interviewing some of the biggest names in the fitness industry, including Felicia Romero, Ava Cowan, Krissy Chin, Jaime Baird, Justine Munro, Marzia Prince, Laura Prestin, and others. We at FitGems Nation are stoked to see Kaitlyn tearing it up and joking it out (and being part of the coolest Diva tag team EVER, the Chickbusters, with AJ) on Friday Night Smackdown, so we are excited to see her give back to the industry that made her a star in the first place.

The interviews can be viewed from anywhere in the world that has Internet connection. The live feed will take place from 10AM to 5PM Pacific Time on both Friday and Saturday on the company's Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/GaspariNutrition. No doubt the Gaspari booth will be among the most popular attractions of the Olympia weekend, especially with one of the top rising stars in WWE as part of their team.

Sharing a TenSpot with...Diane Whetstone

2011-08-15T10:07:00.000-05:00

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!

2011 Europa Supershow to be Webcasted!

2011-08-11T16:48:00.000-05:00

One of the biggest shows of the year NOT named the Olympia or Arnold is taking place tomorrow as the Europa SuperShow will take place in Dallas. Tomorrow and Saturday, the event will be broadcasted via web on Muscular Development's site. It's great to see more shows being webcasted for those unable to attend. The webcast feed will run at 3PM Central.

To view the webcast, go to http://www.musculardevelopment.com/live/2011-europa-super-show.html. Go ahead and bookmark this link.

Good luck to everyone competing!

Interview with Photographer Marc Thyssen

2011-07-22T11:48:00.002-05:00

Photographers are a major part of this industry. Being a part of magazines and paysites are some of the ways of creating your own brand. Just training and competing isn't enough to be a top name in this industry. The photographers can make a major difference in how your career pans out.

Marc Thyssen is quickly becoming one of the top photographers in the business today. His huge FitHeat project during last year's Olympia was unbelievable in nay aspects. Next weekend, during the NPC USAs, he plans to take it up a notch with Fitness Supermodel Weekend at the Moorea Beach Pool at Mandalay Bay. It's a two-day event (Saturday July 30th and Saturday July 31th) with some of the biggest names in the business, including Adela Garcia, Nicole Wilkins, Felicia Romero, and Christine Pomponio-Pate, among others (Talent subject to change, of course). Marc was gracious enough to take time out of his busy prep for this event to conduct an interview with FitGems.

Marc Thyssen himself
Photo credit: Steve Beyer Productions

FitGems Nation: May you begin by telling us a little bit about yourself?
Marc Thyssen: I love travel and have been to 37 countries, visited the majority on my own too. Exotic places, people, food and culture inspire me. As does embracing diversity in every form, which comes from my parents as my mother was born in Madras, India & my father in the South of Holland. Music has been very important to me as my work as a DJ has enabled me to live & travel around the world. Photography also is now playing an important role for me especially in the USA.

FitGems: You’re from Austraila. How did you you find your way to the United States?
Marc: Had visited a few times for holidays but only in 2007 did I take on the challenge to move over to Vegas and try my hand at making a business and life here. With no work organized, no family here or friends it wasn’t easy. But I’m not someone who gives up easily & I think the USA is the place to make your mark in this world in many fields especially mine. America is such an inspiring place.

FitGems: How did you get into photography in the first place?
Marc: My love for travel first inspired me to take photos since my first trip to Europe at 19. My Dutch born father’s love for travel inspired me wanting to travel from a early age. With time I had the confidence and courage to change focus from landscape to focus on people as subjects.

FitGems: How did you get interested in FITNESS photography?
Marc: I had my first Fitness photo shoots with a couple of models, Christina Lindley & Elaine Seth in Miami back in 2003. From my work and the models compliments on it, I knew that it was an area I had a talent for. I remember shooting film back then and using a totally manual camera too.

FitGems: How long have you been in photography?
Marc: Professionally I’ve been shooting since those first shoots in Miami in 2003, so 8 years. But shooting in total for over 15 years. I’ve only been living in the USA since 2007, so 4 years in the USA.

FitGems: In your honest opinion, what’s the most satisfying thing about being a photographer?
Marc: Making people smile. Creating a work of art with a bare minimum of computer manipulation. Too many photographers go to far these days and their subjects look little like the models they shot. That’s not my style, I look to Master Photographers for inspiration and even a guy like David LaChapelle who used to heavily edit his images & has used much less Photoshop in recent years. Australian Photographer Russell James is an inspiring guy, for his work, style and more.

FitGems: Last year during the 2010 Olympia weekend, you hosted a Superstar event of epic proportions with some of the biggest names in the industry (Monica Brant, Christine Pomponio-Pate, Heather Mae French, Myriam Capes, Mindi O’Brien, Krissy Chin, only to name a few) called FitHeat. How in the world were you able to pull off such a major event, and what inspired you to create FitHeat?
Marc: It wasn’t easy. But I know that Vegas is the place to provide a crossover market for the Fitness arena. Here in Vegas people, regular people live in the gym to look great at a pool. So why not capitalize on that and show them athletes at a pool, who are at the top of the sport in the World! Athletes that can inspire all of us.

FitGems: With the success of FitHeat 2010, will we see a repeat of FitHeat during this year’s Olympia?
Marc: Yes, Planet Muscle will again be partner on it too.

Christine Pomponio-Pate (left) and Monica Brant (right) at 2010 FitHeat event. Christine is scheduled to be part of next weekend's Fitness Supermodel Weekend (Photo credit: GUIDENG)

FitGems: Next weekend (during the NPC USAs in Las Vegas), you are hosting a Fitness Supermodel WEEKEND, with a major line-up that includes NINE competitors from past/present Olympias! For those attending, what can people expect from this event?
Marc: It will be again be at Moorea beach, like last years FitHeat, however the pace will be more relaxed with shooting over two days. Expect more interaction between the athletes and the crowd, giveaways and autograph signings. This event will also be filmed for DVD and it will be a surprise where the photos will be featured. Cant reveal that yet! Last years FitHeat was too hectic for me, I was too busy to really enjoy it!

FitGems: From everyone you’ve photographed, who has been your absolute favorite competitor/model to shoot with thus far in your career?
Marc: Hard for me to pick an absolute favorite but shooting Christine Pomponio, at FitHeat last year then again later in the evening one on one was a lot of fun & something I had been looking forward to for a long time. And that Christine drove all the way down just for it & didn’t compete in 2010 but looked like she should’ve been on the Olympia stage when we shot is a credit to her.

FitGems: How important do you feel is social media in the fitness industry, from a photographer’s standpoint?
Marc: Very important, unless you are already a Master Photographer like Annie Leibovitz and have a job shooting for Vanity fair, Nat Geo, SI and the like. For us mere mortals it’s a great way to get out there and get our work seen by many people. I always dreamed of shooting for Nat Geo but then again I am my own boss and I shoot the most beautiful women in the World. Not so bad hey?

FitGems: In addition to photography, you also have a knack for being a DJ. How did that come up?
Marc: Was my first part time job in High school and something I stuck with through completing college and studying abroad in London when I was 24. Not many 24 year olds are blessed enough to study in London whilst DJing to support themselves after already DJing Spain for 2 months the same year. Little wonder I kept to DJing for years afterwards and then onto running nightclubs in Melbourne, Australia after completing my Business degree. But when I hit 30 I knew I wanted something else to be my primary focus, and voila, Photography. And now, event planning also :)

FitGems: What advice would you give to others that would like to do photography one day?
Marc: Practice, shoot nature & still life until you are confident with your camera in manual mode, Then find your niche, network and strive for what you dream and believe will make you most happy in Photography.

FitGems: How can people contact you for more about your work (Twitter, email, website, Facebook, etc.)?
Marc: www.marcthyssen.com (Official Website)
http://twitter.com/marc_thyssen (Twitter)
http://www.facebook.com/MarcThyssenPhotography (Facebook)

For more about Marc's Fitness Supermodel Weekend, you can check out this link on Facebook. http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=120789771346244. Again, thank you Marc for taking the time to do an interview with us!

EXCLUSIVE Interview with Brittany Beede

2011-07-09T10:14:00.000-05:00

Last year, fans of World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) were introduced to a Diva who described herself as three simple words: Sexy, Strong, and Unstoppable. Her name is Brittany Beede, although most WWE fans will know her as Jamie Keyes. Whether she was ring announcing on Florida Championship Wrestling (FCW) and WWE NXT Season 2 or kicking butt in the ring and competitions during NXT Season 3, Jamie seemed to find a way to get the attention of many of the WWE Universe. She's been gone from the WWE since October 2010 and has since begun to help people reach their fitness goals and begin her own journey into becoming one the next top fitness celebrities. Although her schedule is as busy as ever without WWE, Brittany was kind and gracious enough to conduct this interview with us.

All pictures used in this interview were provided by Brittany herself and are property of the original companies.

Original source: Body by Brazil

FitGems Nation: May you start off by telling a little bit about yourself?
Brittany Beede: I'm Brittany Beede, 26 years old, and blessed to be born and raised in the beautiful city of Sarasota, Florida!:) I found my passion for the fitness lifestyle at a very young age. I was extremely active growing up, taking part in every sport I was able and was very serious about my 11 years as a cheerleader! I have always liked challenges and when I saw there was a wrestling school in Tampa (FCW) I enrolled with the goal to make it in the WWE. Lucky for me I achieved that goal and after a short time training in the WWE developmental program I was on TV as Jamie Keyes.

FitGems: We’re gonna get the wrestling questions out of the way. First up…what made you become a fan of pro wrestling in the first place?
Brittany: My dad was always a fan of wrestling! I grew up watching it on t.v. with him and attended a few local shows. He was very supportive and proud when I expressed my interest in becoming a diva myself.

FitGems: How did you begin your wrestling career, and how did you end up in WWE?
Brittany: As I stated earlier, I attended FCW's wrestling school before being hired with the company. I was actually attending nursing school at the time. I began training to be a wrestler (sports entertainer!) under the leadership of Steve Kiern and Norman Smiley. I actually drove over an hour, the day of the first class, and was greeted by the Celtic warrior himself, Sheamus! I wasn't hired immediately after completing the school, but with persistence and drive I was given my opportunity! I made the move to Tampa, Florida and ended up on the road after only a month!

FitGems: You were brought into WWE as the announcer for Florida Championship Wrestling (FCW) and WWE NXT Season 2 and eventually became a Rookie Diva on NXT Season 3, going by the name Jamie Keyes. What did you enjoy about each of your roles while being a part of the company?
Brittany: I think wrestling fans are incredible! Being able to perform live and impact audiences in sold-out arenas as both an announcer and a wrestler was a tremendous opportunity and blessing!

FitGems: During your time in the company, did you learn any new workout tips that helped you out when it came to training?
Brittany: We were given the privilege of being trained by WWE's incredible strength coach, Rob MacIntyre. Through his knowledge and expertise I learned the importance and benefits of the power lifts and Olympic lifts. I still look to his mastery when planning my own Booty camp group classes.:)

FitGems: I gotta be real with you…I thought WWE didn’t do enough to push your character during your time, and from what I gathered from others, they feel the same way. Were you the least bit surprised that you were the first person eliminated on NXT Season 3?
Brittany: Not at all! What I think people don’t realize is how quickly I was put on the road. I was only in developmental for a few months. I didn’t have as much time to train once I was hosting. Then all of a sudden I was on NXT. I was honored but overwhelmed. The other girls were much more experienced than I was. I was lucky to even be there. I am honored to have fans that feel differently but the truth is I felt my inexperience was apparent.

FitGems: And now the million dollar question, in your own words…What (at the time) was the reason (or reasons) you decided that WWE’s just not for you right now? In other words, what’s the REAL story behind your release?
Brittany: Ha ha. I wish I had a scandalous story for you! There is no story really. As I said in the previous answer I hadn’t been there long before I had been put on the road. It is hard to imagine how tough the WWE schedule is until you do it. I joined the WWE because I was a fan, and wanted to promote the fitness lifestyle. However, after being with the company for a while I learned I loved fitness more than wrestling. Everyone treated me great. I loved the people. I loved the opportunities. I didn’t have any fights backstage or anything interesting to talk about. I just felt I could pursue a career helping others with health and fitness that would be more fulfilling to me.

FitGems: Since your time in WWE, you have shifted gears towards fitness, which has been your main focus from the beginning. How did you get involved in fitness in the first place?
Brittany: Like I stated previously, my adoration for the fitness lifestyle was apparent at a very young age. I participated in countless extra curricular activities and began teaching group fitness classes while attending nursing school and continued through wrestling school. Even with the tedious schedule on the road with WWE I always made my workouts a top priority. It's something that I take very seriously and will carry with me for the remainder of my life!

FitGems: Let’s be honest…from your recent pics, you look like you can step on stage and hold your own in a physique competition. Do you actually see yourself competing one day?
Brittany: I have no interest in competing. I stay in shape for me and because I truly love working out.

FitGems: What is your favorite kind of workout to do?
Brittany: My workouts constantly change, but there is nothing like lifting heavy weights at fast speeds over your head or the feeling after completing a long run! I like to do it all! I want to be known as the girl who knew her limitations only because she consistently challenged them. I want to look back at my life and have no regrets! If I am capable, I will attempt it!

Original source: Lift Studios/Hardbody

FitGems: When your website (BrittanyBFit.com) was launched, many WWE personalities went to Twitter and put you over, including Natalya, Chris Jericho, and Joey Styles. Did you expect some of the WWE people to do that, and how did it make you feel?
Brittany: I felt very honored! WWE is successful because of every single person involved! Everyone from the cooks to Mr. McMahon himself were welcoming, supportive and encouraging during my entire career with the company.
It's an incredible feeling to have been given the opportunity to work side by side with such talent and prestige!

FitGems: How important do you think fitness modeling is for the fitness industry? Some competitors just work out and compete and that’s all we ever see them is in competitions.
Brittany: I am certainly not an expert on the industry but I think in the world of women’s fitness, there is more of a differential between competing and modeling. Competitive male bodybuilders sell men's magazines. Fitness models sell women’s magazines. They don’t necessarily have to compete. The people who buy these things don’t really know who won the fitness Olympia. They just want to see a hot, fit girl. So I see no problem if someone just wants to compete. There is not a shortage of fitness models.

FitGems: What magazine would you like to be on the cover of someday?
Brittany: I'd love to be on the cover of Oxygen! I love what they stand for and have had a subscription for years!

FitGems: If you were not in fitness, what would you be doing right now?
Brittany: Wishing I was!

FitGems: What advice would you give to people who want to start living healthy lifestyles?
Brittany: I would tell them that it's a process, yet something that will be the most positive, life-altering decision they will ever make. Fitness and making smart decisions with nutrition is not easy! If it were, every person would be healthy and fit. I don't believe that anything worth it is ever comes without a tremendous amount of passion, dedication and hard work! Set your mind to be ready for the change and be consistent!

FitGems: Oh…here’s the OTHER one million dollar question all former wrestlers are asked…is there a chance that one day you might be back in WWE?
Brittany: Never say never.

FitGems: What are your future plans in the fitness industry, and where do you see yourself 5 years from now?
Brittany: My goal is to continue to be a personal trainer, life coach, and source of inspiration to each and every person that I am able. Fitness has changed my life in so many incredible ways, and I plan to share my revelation with as many people as possible by empowering them to live positive, healthy, happy lifestyles, through proper diet and exercise.
Of course I will always continue the challenge of refining my own physique and lifestyle to be the best I can be!

FitGems: How can your fans connect with you and contact you if they want to know your upcoming plans or want to book you for future endorsements, commercials, print work, etc. (website, email, Facebook, Twitter, etc.)?
Brittany: Other than www.BrittanyBFit.com, please contact me through Facebook and twitter! Here are the links!:)
Twitter: http://twitter.com/BrittanyBeede
Official Facebook fan page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Brittany-Beede-Jamie-Keyes-WWE/151485664892299

Original source: Body by Brazil

Again, huge thanks to Brittany for doing this interview with us! In addition to the links she provided, she writes for this very blog periodically, so be on the lookout for more articles from Brittany in the very near future. Hope you all enjoyed this special interview, and to all wrestling news sites, if you plan on reposting the interview by parts or in full, please credit FitGems Nation. Thank you.

More on Jenny Worth's Fitness Return This Weekend

2011-07-06T00:40:00.000-05:00

This weekend, IFBB Fitness Legend Jenny Worth will be making her return to the stage as a guest poser during the 2011 Southern States Championships! We posted a blog post about her return here a few weeks ago, and now we have more details to reveal about her return to the fitness stage.

The show will start at 7PM Eastern time, with her appearance taking place around 9pm July 8th. Below is the location of the show and where and who to contact for tickets and more information about the Southern States:
WAR MEMORIAL AUDITORIUM
800 NE 8th Street
FT. LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA
TICKETS AND INFO: contact
PETER W. POTTER, USA SPORTS PROMOTIONS OF FL
phone: 954.763.2718 - email: usasports@juno.com

From FitGems Nation, we send our best wishes to Jenny in her return to the stage and hopes this could lead to bigger things in the future! We'll do our best to get an interview with her after her guest performance. No guarantees, though.

For more on Jenny, visit her website at http://www.jennyworthfitness.com and visit her Yahoo fan club at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/jenny_worth, and "like" Jenny Worth Fitness on Facebook.

FitGems to have Hall of Fame

2011-07-03T23:12:00.000-05:00

For those that might or might not know, I proposed an idea on the Facebook fan page about possibly doing a Hall of Fame to honor competitors of the past. The response was a definite YES, so thanks to you, we ARE going to do a Hall of Fame. The way it's going to be done is a select panel of competitors and industry members will send in the top 10 competitors they would like to be seen in the Hall of Fame in order, and write down ONE fitness celebrity that has contribute to women's fitness (that's NEVER BEEN a competitor). Here's how the scoring will be:

Whoever they list first will get 10 points, 2nd will get 9 points, 3rd 8 points, 4th 7 points, 5th 6 points, 6th five points, 7th 4 points, 8th 3 points, 9th 2 points, 10th 1 point. The 7 ladies with the highest point total will be put into the Hall of Fame. For the fitness celebrity, it will be the person whose mentioned the most by the panel. In the event of a tie, there will be a run-off vote.

Who is eligible to be in the FitGems Hall of Fame?

This is a FEMALE COMPETIORS Hall of Fame, meaning no guys (at least not right now)
The competitor(s) must either have competed for at least a decade or total of 10 years OR she has retired and its been at least 5-10 years since their last competition.
They can be from any federation, even ones from the past
We ask that if the person is still competing, that they have to competed at least 10 years.
The inductees can be living or deceased.

The FitGems Hall of Fame Class of 2011 will be revealed the weekend BEFORE the 2011 Olympia. This is not being created as a joke, this is something that I wanted to do to celebrate and honor the past competitors. Who would you like to see be inducted this year? If you follow us on Twitter, use the hashtag #fitgemshalloffame when you send us your suggestions. If you are on our Facebook page, leave a comment in the discussion panel.

Good luck to all competitors! :)

Sabrina Taylor, one of IFBB's Best-Kept Secrets?

2011-06-29T19:28:00.001-05:00

It's no secret that there are those competitors who don't get the callouts many people feel they deserve, despite doing everything by the book, and changing things to appease to what the judges are looking for at that time. Like everything else, hardcore fans seem to support the ones the company/federation don't. I guess it's a rebel thing in people, I guess, to follow a different path. They develop somewhat of a "cult following". You're definitely seeing this a lot on message boards these days. Arguably the biggest following among the boards and those I've talked to is Juliana Malacarne (more about her in a future post. Stay tuned). Someone who's gaining some steam in that kind of following is that of IFBB athlete (big emphasis on ATHLETE) Sabrina Taylor.

Sabrina @ 2011 Pittsburgh Pro (Photo credit: FitnessRx)

Sabrina isn't your typical figure competitor. She got in gymnastics as the tender age of three. She did that for a while, and then joined the Air Force for a while. She competed in a few NABBA competitions before making the NPC/IFBB her home. She would win the overall Emerald Cup fitness title and shortly after that, she would win her first national show, the NPC USAs in Fitness, and win her pro card, making her part of the IFBB. She would compete in a few competition in 2005 before taking a hiatus from competition. In 2009, she returned to the IFBB in 2009, but this time as a figure competitor. Physique wise, she's one of the most respected among her peers, although the judges have told her that her conditioning (especially in the upper body) is a bit too much for today's figure. She has done her best to give the look that is desired these days, but for some reason or another, it isn't enough. When you have been in what she's done throughout her lifetime, it's kinda hard to get really soft when you have her kind of muscle maturity. It's a gift and a curse, like Spider-Man. There are those that would like to see Sabrina try her luck in IFBB women's physique next year. But for the moment, she is sticking with figure. In fact, her next show (as far as I know) will be on September 24-25 in India (yes, I said INDIA) during the Sheru Classic. She's also currently with ALR Industries, thanks to her boo, Louis Uridel, aka The Big Sexy (his words, not mine. I swear!! LOL. :-) )

When she's not competing herself, Sabrina's leading others into battle on the stage as coach of the Camp Pendleton bodybuilding and powerlifting teams, specifically Team Iron. To make a long story short somewhat, she's basically leads by example. Another reason Sabrina's not your typical run-of-the-mill figure competitor is that she's one INSANELY strong female. During her time in the Air Force, she competed in powerlifting events, setting a lot of records and winning many awards for her weight class. Obviously, she doesn't train like that anymore, but I've been told she is among the strongest figure competitors out there. If strength was a big part of figure competitions, she would be among the top of the heap, without question. Her strength goes beyond just the weight room, though, as shown in this clip from the 2011 Arnold Classic, as she needed to hang for 70 seconds at the US Marine booth. Not gonna spoil the video for you, but I think you will be mighty impressed with how well she does here:

Bottom line, with her unique combination of athleticism, beauty, muscularity, and strength, Sabrina is among the best talents IFBB has...but has yet to capitalize on it. Hopefully things will turn around, and Sabrina gets the respect from the federation she deserves. She's an amazing talent, and speaking on behalf of FitGems Nation, I think the best for her is yet to come in her career.

For more on Sabrina, visit her fan page at http://sports.groups.yahoo.com/group/sabrina_taylor/, and you can add her as a friend on Facebook under the name Ifbb pro Sabrina Taylor.

Interview with Kimmie Morgan

2011-06-24T15:20:00.000-05:00

Earlier this year, I highlighted Kimmie Morgan as a New Elite, as I felt she was going to be a big star soon. Fast forward to now, I'm more confident than ever that she's got a chance to shine and get that pro card with the new women's physique division shaping up. Perfect feminine curves and amazing muscularity are major reasons why she's quickly becoming a favorite. Don't be surprised if you hear more about her in the very near future.

All photos are from Kimmie herself and has given FitGems permission to use them in the interview

The first of hopefully MANY trophies for Kimmie.

FitGems Nation: Let’s kick this off by telling us a bit about yourself.
Kimmie Morgan: Hmmm…let’s see, I’m 34, been married to my hubby, Scott, 5 years and we have a kick ass 2 yr old little girl named Kennedy. I don’t take myself seriously; as a matter of fact, I don’t take anyone too seriously to be honest with ya. I’m a daddy’s girl and I’m hoping that my daughter is the exact opposite and that she can’t get enough of ME because I’m totally obsessed with her!

FitGems: When did you first start competing?
Kimmie: I should start out by saying that I’ve been training since I was 15 years old! That’s crazy, right? I did my first fitness show in my early 20’s and quickly realized that wasn’t for me. I didn’t compete again until 2010 in Figure. I did 4 shows last year.

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?
Kimmie: Well, last year I trained with weights at the beginning of the year but once the season started up I had to go strictly cardio and ply metrics. It was pretty miserable I have to say. I’m a “weights” kinda girl! I’m a shorty and I gained muscle pretty quickly which is why I had to put the weights down for Figure. But I’m all about the weights this season going into Physique.

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?)
Kimmie: Funny! Yes, a pro wrestler! It’s pretty darn funny too….I like to roll with it though, ya know, take pictures with the fans, sign autographs…. HAHAHAHA! Pretend like I’m “somebody”. My husband is big and bald, so he often gets mistaken for Goldberg which makes it even more believable that we could actually be pro wrestlers.

Kimmie and Scott...WWE's next power couple. LOL. :)

FitGems: With women’s physique and figure now a part of the NPC and IFBB, do you feel that there’s now a division for every female who wants to compete?
Kimmie: Absolutely. I’m waiting on them to come out with a Toddlers division so that I can sign Kennedy up. Smile!

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?
Kimmie: It’ll be interesting to see if we’ll now be able to see a distinct difference between the divisions. This is just me, like I know anything, right? I would hope that bikini would soften up a little…”fit”. And Figure would be geared more towards an extremely athletic look which would allow Physique competitors to be more defined with a harder and leaner look. That’d leave Women Bodybuilders the ability to pack on the major mass. We’ll see what happens….

FitGems: If you weren’t a part of the female physique world, what would you be doing right now as your profession?
Kimmie: I’d have about 3 or 4 more kids, um, and that’d be AFTER I won the lottery, of course. I’d also take up competitive eating. I’m not really into hotdogs but I can throw down in a fried pickles eating contest!

FitGems: Which competitor (past or present) do you look up to the most for your inspiration?
Kimmie: Here’s a flashback: Lenda Murray, Cathy LeFrancois, Laurie Donnelly, Laura Mak, and Monica Brant were the first women I was inspired by. I can remember reading about them in the bodybuilding magazines back in the day. I remember thinking I could never look like them, be like them, or do what they do. After all, I was 1 of only 3 chicks working out at Dino’s Gym in Warner Robins, Ga. back then. I mean, I didn’t know that girls could look like that! Now-a-days, I’m amazed by Ava (Cowan), Trish (Warren) and, as always, Monica (Brant) is the JAM!

FitGems: What are your future plans heading into 2011 and beyond, and where do you see your career after you’re done competing?
Kimmie: Hmm. Well, let’s see, I’d like to NOT place dead last in my class in 2011….HAHAHA! I joke! I LOVE this sport and I can’t imagine not being involved somewhere in the industry. We’ll see.

I believe she will be making her Women's Physique debut at the North Americans later on this year, if I'm not mistaken from the last time I talked to her. We at FitGems Nation wish her nothing but the best of luck to her! If you want to add her on Facebook, she is under the name Kimmie Cooper Morgan.

Women's Physique...are you ready for Kimmie?!

2011 Jr. Nationals Figure...We Are All Witnesses

2011-06-20T00:59:00.001-05:00

A truly historic moment in our sport. (Photo credit: RxMuscle)

Date: Saturday June 18, 2011
Place: Chicago, Illinois

The title said it all, we are all witnesses. On this night in the Windy City, the unheard-of took place at the Jr. Nationals, six women won their figure classes and four of them became pros. Although that was a great moment in itself (winning your class and joining the pro ranks), it's WHO won them that made it special. All six figure winners were of African-American decent. NEVER in the history of this sport have anything like this took place. SIX black women out-shined every other competitor to win their classes, and four of them would become IFBB Pros. Those six women are Gloria Keplinger (Class A), Vicki Counts (Class B), Tambra Johnson (Class C), Candice Lewis (Class D and overall champion), Chaya Boone (Class E) and Tiffany Archer (Class F)! They will forever be known as the First Black Ladies Class of NPC/IFBB. And isn't it a bit ironic that this took place at the hometown of the current United States President (who is also a man of color, the first in U.S. history to hold the office)?

I witnessed this historic moment of the figure ladies being crowned on Siouxcountry, and the reaction blew me away. The positive vibes and overjoy of many members was truly unbelievable. And reading the comments and even typing this blog post, as a man of color himself, I couldn't help but shed tears over this amazing news. We as a people have come a long way, and the Jr. Nationals was a prime example of that.

If you were to have told me that this would happen, you would have been called crazy by yours truly.I'm no history buff and I'm no racist person by any means, but it seems like one group of individuals seem to get everything and it makes it hard on everyone else. If we were all meant to be the same, God would have made us all the same. But did he? NO! He made us all different, and I'm glad He did. Besides if everyone was exactly the same, life would be a bit boring, don't ya think?

These wins the ladies earned this past weekend are bigger than most realized, because it's showing that diversity is a GOOD thing. I wish we were at the point where race didn't matter, but sadly, we're far away from that. I'll admit, things have gotten a bit better over time, but we're far from that point, but we're getting closer and closer to that promise land. In the words of Martin Luther King, Jr., "I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by their character." While there are still those that judged from the outside rather than the inside (that's in life in general), it was evident that the figure winners at the Jr. Nationals were judged based on the outside AND inside. Here's hoping their careers in the IFBB will go far.

Make no mistake, this was not a victory for ONLY black competitors, nor was it a just a historic moment for figure in general, or just an historic moment for the NPC and IFBB, but it was an important moment in American history, showing the aspiring competitors that you CAN accomplish your dreams despite the obstacles society throws at you. Throw it back at them with success. These six ladies did it, and this will hopefully inspire others who have doubted themselves (regardless of color) to take adversity head-on and thrive. On behalf of FitGems Nation and every single competitor that's ever stepped on stage, you gave a lot of us reason to believe again. Thanks for just stepping on stage and proving that you CAN make a difference. All you gotta go is make that first step, and the rest will follow. Gloria, Vicki, Tiffany, and Candice Lewis, welcome to the IFBB, ladies! You've earned it. Tambra and Chaya, your time is coming! Grab that pro card!.

To ALL six of you, and everyone reading this blog, keep on reaching for the stars. Move all obstacles out of your way, and shatter any glass ceilings you come across. I'll leave you with this quote from Arthur C.Clarke, "He only way of finding the limits of the possible is by going beyond them into the impossible."

Fit Model TV: The Fitness Model Media Blog

2011-06-16T15:20:00.000-05:00

There are sites all around that support the female competitors in terms of competition, sponsorships, financial advice, etc. But there are VERY few sites that have to do with the modeling side of the industry. For many, modeling is a major part of their career.

New blog Fit Model TV, created by dallas3, hopes to spread the news about fitness photographers and fitness models, as well as when competitors do modeling as well. Already, the blog has featured work from photographers such as David Ford, Isaac Hinds, Marc Thyssen, and more, along with videos and photos of models/competitors such as Monica Brant, Ava Cowan, Alicia Harris, Mandy Blank, and the Vitrix Model Team, among others.

You can view modeling contests, get info on photographers, see modeling photos/videos, and more! This site is just starting, but from what is on there so far, it is looking to become one of the top sites in this industry, especially in terms of size and importance to the models, athletes, and photographers.

To visit Fit Model TV, go to http://fitmodeltv.wordpress.com.

Interview with Tracey MacDonald

2011-06-12T20:12:00.000-05:00

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!

New Elite: Sherrie Carnicle

2011-06-12T19:21:00.000-05:00

Photo credit: Muscular Development

There are those that look better with a lot of muscle, there are those that look better with a little less. There are those who look better harder and more conditioned, and there are those that look better softer and less conditioned. And then...there are those that look amazing no matter how big, small, hard, or soft they look. Sherrie Carnicle is one of those competitors.

I became a fan of hers during her first year of National competition in 2007 in figure. People were amazing at how awesome she looked. At the time, she was streamlined and not that muscular, but everything flowed well. A year later, she remained in figure, and it was clear as day that she packed a bit more muscle to her frame, and I can't tell you the amount of compliments she got from the message boards. Off-the-charts crazy. Then bikini came along, and she decided to give the bikini division a try. So obviously, she took off some muscle, but the flow in her physique was just as good during her figure days, if not better. After her overall bikini win at the Sacramento Bodybuilding, Fitness, Figure and Bikini Championships, many were convinced she would be a future IFBB Bikini Pro. If she were to have competed in the National scene in bikini last year, I would guarantee you she would have walked away with a pro card last year.

Sherrie will be returning to National competitions at the Jr. Nationals this weekend. I don't know who all if competing, but I'm going to say this..I will be one shocked person if Sherrie does NOT take home a pro card this weekend. Call it bias, but I'm only calling it like I see it. If she doesn't get a pro card at the Jr. Nationals, I definitely see a pro card in her future. Her physique now is what I was hoping for when the bikini division was created. With her National bikini debut mere days away, it might be only a matter of time before Sherrie takes her rightful place among the IFBB athletes.

Sharing a TenSpot with...Alicia McBride

2011-06-03T14:05:00.000-05:00

Alicia McBride is a friend (or protege if you will) of Sandy Rowe Wiedmeyer. She competes in the NGA (National Gym Association) and INBF (International Natural Bodybuilding & Fitness Federation), two great drug-free organizations. She's been competing just this year, but prior to that, she's has some serious life journies, as described in this interview.

Photo provided by Alicia herself

FitGems Nation: Let’s kick this off by telling us a bit about yourself.
Alicia McBride: I am 24 years old and grew up in Wisconsin. I started lifting when I was about 14, and then really got into it when I joined the military and went overseas. I served four years in the Navy, got out and am now working as a Correctional Officer in Wisconsin.

FitGems: When did you first start competing?
Alicia: I just started competing this year. I competed in the 2011 Fords Gym Wisconsin Natural Bodybuilding, Fit Body & Figure Championships and took 1st in Tall Figure, and I competed in the 2011 NGA Heart of America Natural Classic where I did not place.

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?
Alicia: When I am in competition prep I do a mixture of the two. I shed the body fat fairly easy so I don’t have to do a ton of cardio. In the off season I mainly do weights and I keep the cardio to a minimum.

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?)
Alicia: Yes, everyone asks me if I play basketball or if I’m training for a race.

FitGems: You compete in the INBF and NGA. For those unaware of what those federations are, may you explain a little bit more about it?
Alicia: They are natural organizations that are drug tested and require competitors to be drug free for seven years. They drug test by use of polygraph and/or urine sample.

FitGems: Even though figure is a subjective sport and consistency is not the best when it comes to how federations “stick with it” over the year, how do YOU personally think figure should be judged?
Alicia: Who has the “full package”, not just who has the best shoulders. I think maybe it would help if the judges had a checklist type paper and gave each competitor a score on each section, such as; shoulders, lat spread, symmetry, ect and tallied points up that way.

FitGems: If you weren’t a part of the female physique world, what would you be doing right now as your profession?
Alicia: I would still be a Correctional Officer, but would probably be more dedicated to running races, and I would still be dedicated to lifting weights and trying to improve myself.

FitGems: Which competitor (past or present) you look up to the most for your inspiration?
Alicia: I have always looked up to Ava Cowan and Jamie Easton, and basically any female competitor that gets on that stage because they all put a lot of work and dedication into training and preparing for the competition.

FitGems: If there’s one piece of advice that you could give to someone who’s on the fence about competing, what would it be?
Alicia: Go talk to a trainer and ask some questions, go see a competition, and read up about it online.

FitGems: What are your future plans heading into 2011 and beyond, and where do you see your career after you’re done competing?
Alicia: I plan to compete in the fall of 2011; I plan on doing the Fords Gym INBF competition again in October, and the NANBF Natural Badger Classic.

For more on Alicia, visit her BodySpace page at http://bodyspace.bodybuilding.com/byzika/ and her page on FitGems Nation at http://www.fitgemsnation.net/profile/AliciaMcBride. Best of luck to you Alicia on your career! :)

BrittanyBFit on FitGems Nation: Tabata Exercises

2011-06-02T20:26:00.000-05:00

How would you like to do four minutes of training and get the same benefits, aerobically, as someone who completes 45 minutes, on the treadmill, at a steady pace?? Yep, you read this correct….FOUR minutes, with the right amount of intensity, and you will turn your body into a fat-obliterating machine!!

What is this!?! “It is a form of High Intesity Interval Training (HIIT) which is a a method of aerobic exercise that uses short workouts but super high intensity to accelerate fat loss. Tabata used a 2 to 1 ratio of intense activity and recovery period that increase aerobic capacity AND improved anaerobic capacity to some degree. The best of both worlds!

How does it work? Most of the time we perform either aerobic (cardio) OR anaerobic (strength training). The problem is that just doing cardio doesn’t help our strength and just strength training doesn’t help our aerobic capabilities. Tabata training gives a big boost in our aerobic capacity and also benefits us anaerobic. That’s right! It is SOOO hard that both systems are impacted! So get ready for some of the toughest exercises you will EVER do!

I am excited to walk you through this intense protocol with an EXCLUSIVE workout video for BrittanyBFit.com members. I have named it the “ultimate Tabata workout”, and I can not WAIT to share it with you and hear your feedback!

http://www.brittanybfit.com/ultimate-tabata-workout/

Together we can be SEXY, STRONG, and UNSTOPPABLE!
<3 Brittany Beede <3
WWW.BrittanyBFit.com

Sharing a TenSpot with...Meriza DeGuzman (Interviewed by dallas3)

2011-06-01T12:04:00.000-05:00

Dallas3 interviewed one of the top IFBB Figure Athletes in the sport today, Meriza DeGuzman. She is sponsored by MAN Sports, who won the Supplement Company of the Year award at the 2nd Annual FitGems Awards. Meriza just recently competed in the California Pro, where she placed in the top ten.

DALLAS3: What made you want to make a career out of fitness?
MERIZA DEGUZMAN: I love the lifestyle of fitness – being able to share healthy living and teach the things I’ve learned through my own quest to be healthier is a blessing. I’ve learned alot on my own journey to be a better, healthier me-the benefits are so many- I’m even more thankful that I have been able to make a career out of sharing my passion with others.

DALLAS3: Best advice you’ve received in the industry?
MERIZA: As a competitor, don’t take your placings personally, and don’t worry about the supposed politics; Be yourself! I try to be a good role model to others because I as new athlete, I was influenced in a positive way by a few “big names” who were super nice to me, (namely Tanji and Adela , who are so sweet!)

DALLAS3: Advice for women wanting to make a career in the industry?
MERIZA: Learn as much as you can, keep your skills sharp, and always be nice to everybody – pay things forward because we’re blessed to be involved in this career…appreciate that fact!

DALLAS3: What would you like to do in the industry that you haven’t done yet?
MERIZA: I would like to compete at the Arnold before I retire; I would like to continue to inspire others to live a healthy lifestyle by leading by example.

DALLAS3: Best way you’ve found in getting sponsorship, booth work, in print ads, photo shoots, etc?
MERIZA: Stay in shape all year, so you’re always marketable. Be friendly and nice to everyone (not fake, sincere); and stay humble…

DALLAS3: Go out and seek potential sponsors or build yourself up first then go ask?
MERIZA: Build yourself up first, make a name for yourself so you have something to offer. Then, actively seek out sponsorship. Stay in shape, and always work to add to your portfolio and resume.

DALLAS3: Which do you like better, modeling or competing?
MERIZA: Hmmm…Competing…it’s the thrill of being on stage!

DALLAS3: Anyone you model your career after?
MERIZA: No, I’m just me… I love what I do and I’m appreciative – I work very hard to super-service my clients as a trainer, coach and physique specialist, and I keep my skills sharp.

DALLAS3: Best way you’ve saved on costs?
MERIZA: Competing is expensive; share rooms with other competitors, learn to apply your own make up and hair when necessary, refurbish your suits…choose contests wisely, to make the most marketing and career “bang” for your buck…

DALLAS3: Finish the sentence. In 5 years…..
MERIZA: I want to become established as a role model for women…I have alot of experience locally helping women of all experience levels get into their best shape ever; I love what I do and have a real passion for contributing to the quality of living of my clients. I love them all!! I hope in 5 years to be able to influence women on a much larger scale, because the fitness lifestyle has been so positive for me, I firmly believe I can help show more women how to lead healthier, more powerful and more fulfilled, happier lives!

Here's a bit about MAN Sports from Meriza: "They have several “high-performance” products for athletes, including a unique performance product created for hard-training females – FIGURE FUEL! learn more about Figure Fuel and how to achieve your own Fit and Lean body at www.MANSports.com"

For more on Meriza, visit her website at http://www.merizafigure.com.

Sharing a TenSpot with...Stacy Wright (Interviewed by dallas3)

2011-06-01T11:31:00.001-05:00

For those that know me, you might know dallas3, one of my best friends in this industry. For those unaware, he has closed his site Iron Bizz and will be incorporating a good deal of the site material to the main FitGems site. In addition, he did two interviews which I will post on the blog (with his full permission). The first interview from dallas3 is of IFBB Fitness Pro and 2011 FitGems Sponsored Athlete Stacy Wright! In addition to being sponsored by FitGems, she is also sponsored by Labrada and ABSolute Fitness. (NOTE: This interview was done prior to her stepping on stage for the first time at the New York Pro Fitness)

Stacy's Pro Debut in New York
Photo credit: Bodybuilding.com

DALLAS3: What made you want to make a career out of fitness?
STACY WRIGHT: While I would love to say this is my career, it is not. It doesn’t pay my bills in that aspect. I’m actually a full time registered nurse and independent personal trainer.
As for competing…I love to perform and I love to compete. The combination of muscle and balanced symmetry along with the fitness routine just fits ‘me’! I love everything about it!

DALLAS3: Best advice you’ve received in the industry?
STACY: Be patient and work to improve “YOU” each and every time you step on stage. Worry about the things you have control over, like your diet and training. Never about things you have no control over, like your placing in a show.

DALLAS3: Advice for women wanting to make a career in the industry?
STACY: It’s more than what you do on stage. It’s about networking, being a positive role model. Never sell yourself short of who you truly are. Then when you DO have a career in the fitness industry, it’s something you can truly be proud of!

DALLAS3:What would you like to do in the industry that you haven’t done yet?
STACY: Step on that pro stage! I need to make a name for myself within the IFBB. The goal is not necessarily to win #1. I know that’s not realistic. My goal is to be one they say- WOW! Now she is something. And remember my name when they leave.

DALLAS3: Best way you’ve found in getting sponsorship, booth work, in print ads, photo shoots, etc?
STACY: Be yourself and network. This is a pretty small industry so it’s easy to get in contact with people. It’s all about working your way up the ladder!

DALLAS3: Go out and seek potential sponsors or build yourself up first then go ask?
STACY: A little bit of both. You have to have something to offer, so building yourself up a bit gives you the confidence and knowledge to seek those sponsors. Do your research always before you jump the gun.

DALLAS3: Which do you like better, modeling or competing?
STACY: Competing! Although I do love getting some pretty photos in the process. If modeling would take off, I would be open to that option along with my competitions.

DALLAS3: Anyone you model your career after?
STACY: I’ve taken advice from many people and parts of their careers, but I have to be me and do what I think is best in representing myself. I’ve learned the hard way on a few things, and we all live and learn. I now am okay with not being the best or the most well known.. as long as I am staying true to myself!

DALLAS3: Best way you’ve saved on costs?
STACY: Sponsorships. Hand-me-downs. Wearing the same suits to shows throughout each year. Consignment stores. Choreographing my own routine and doing my own training and diet with my husband. There are many ways to go about saving in such an expensive sport.

DALLAS3:Finish the sentence….In 5 years I want to….
STACY: qualify for and compete at the Olympia. =) That was an easy one.

For more on Stacy and her sponsors, check out the following links:

StacyWright.net
Labrada.com
TameeMarie.webs.com
DJMyRoutine.com
Endimanche Designs : https://www.facebook.com/pages/Endimanche-Designs/102781786449481

Jenny Worth Returns to Her Roots

2011-06-01T10:59:00.000-05:00

For those attending the NPC Southern States Championships on July 8-9 are in for one heck of a treat. Jenny Worth will be guest performing at the show! For the first time since having her child, she will be back on stage to perform a fitness routine.

According to Jenny, she's doing it for the love of the sport that's made her a star in the first place, women's fitness, and with this performance, she hopes to put women's fitness back on the map and hope to get people talking about Jenny again. During her interview with us earlier this year, she did mentioned that she wouldn't mind returning to compete when the time was right. Could this guest appearance be the beginning of a comeback for the 2001 Fitness International champion? I wouldn't put it past her, as many say she's among the best to never win the Fitness Olympia title. That will remain to be see whether she returns to competition, but it will be great for those attending the Southern States to see an IFBB Fitness legend on stage.

We at FitGems Nation wish her best of luck as she prepare to return to the stage for a guest appearance fans will never forget. :)

2011 Jr. USAs Competitor Breakdown

2011-05-18T13:23:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, J.M. Manion released the breakdown of the of number of competitors for this year's Jr. USAs. 241 female competitors are expected to compete in this weekend's contest.

7 Female Bodybuilders
8 Fitness
102 Figure
76 Bikini
48 Women’s Physique

There will be seven pro cards to be awarded this weekend. They will be awarded to the overall fitness winner, 2 to the top figure overall winners, and 2 to the overall bikini winners. This contest will also crown the first IFBB Women's Physique pros as well, as there will be 2 pro cards awarded for women's physique. Here's my personal thoughts on the numbers for each division:

Women's bodybuilding: Although no pro card is at stake here, seeing only 7 competing this weekend is a sad state of affairs for the division. Maybe I'm wrong, but you'd think for those that don't want to see women's bodybuilding perish, they would come out to to the first major NPC show of the year and show the haters that women's bodybuilding is here to stay, no matter what. IMHO, this does not bode well for the division if this continues.

Fitness: A pro card is up for grabs...you would think that there would be more competitors wanting that pro card. But only 8 are competing?! EIGHT?!?! I can't tell you how sad that looks and sounds. For those that know me, fitness is what brought me to being a fan/supporter of the entire industry in the first place. It would be a shame to see it go away. But if things don't improve and soon...we might be looking at the end of women's fitness in the NPC and eventually the IFBB.

Figure: not surprised whatsoever that this would have the most number of ladies. 102 is a fantastic number. But like all the divisions, it's going to be hard to determine what the standard should be. I feel that whoever gets those pro cards this year will set the standard for what figure should look like. I don't expect it to go back to the old days of figure, but hopefully with every division competing this weekend, we should hopefully have a better feel as to what figure should be (in the eyes of the NPC and IFBB, of course)

Bikini: Big number for bikini, which is showing that this division is a welcomed part of the NPC and IFBB, despite those very few that are trying to make this a T and A contest instead of an extension to women's health and fitness. I'm assuming whoever gets the pro cards here will be looked at as the standard for the division, with women's physique being put in place. What I'm personally hoping is the winning looks for figure and bikini are not similar, as in I don't want to here people go "why are there two divisions when the looks are EXACTLY the same" I've heard that in one too many conversations and messages boards.

Women's Physique: As great as all the divisions are, it's no secret that all eyes will be on the new women's physique division. A hybrid of women's bodybuilding and figure. The plan was for one class for this division for the Jr. USAs, but the numbers were too great. 48 to be exact. So they decided to split the classes into two. I don't think we will have to worry about mistaken this for bikini, but don't think the most ripped will win this one. But then again, it could. With this being a new division, there's really no way to determine a favorite going into this contest. For all we know, the standouts could be former fitness competitors, former figure competitors, former bodybuilder, maybe people who's never stepped on stage before. The standard (IMHO) won't be set for a few shows, but the Jr. USAs will be a good start in seeing what the NPC is looking for and what the IFBB Pros that want to do Women's Physique next year might want to work on, in terms of posing, physique, and overall presentation.

With all the divisions present and accounted for, this could definitely go down as arguably THE biggest NPC Jr. USAs in history. To everyone competing, good luck!

First IFBB Women's Physique Event Possibly Set

2011-05-17T12:53:00.002-05:00

I just checked MuscleContest.com (http://lindsayproductions.com/2012schedule.php) a few minutes ago, and apparently, according to the site, the first official contest for IFBB Women's Physique has been set for February 25, 2012 in Culver City, CA. It will be the IFBB Pro Grand Prix-Los Angeles Men & Women's Physique Championships. This will also be the day/night of the NPC Amateur Grand Prix- Los Angeles Bodybuilding, Bikini, Men's Physique, Figure & Fitness. This will be a National qualifier.

Obviously, this is subject to change at anytime, but it looks like IFBB's first women's physique contest will take place before the Arnold, which I think it's interesting. I personally have not heard if the Arnold next year will have women's physique (or men's physique for that matter). Kinda ironic that this news were to come out mere days before the Jr. USAs this weekend, where the NPC will debut women's physique for the first time.

BrittanyBFit on FitGems Nation: Exercising on Vacation! :)

2011-05-16T22:53:00.002-05:00

As announced, Brittany Beede, formerly WWE Diva Jamie Keyes, has joined FitGems Nation as a special guest blog contributor! Here is her first blog for the site: exercising while on vacation. ENJOY!!!

Summer is rapidly approaching and family vacations are being booked. Whether you are embarking on a flight to the sunny beaches of California, cruising to the islands, or planning a thrilling trip to Las Vegas your workouts can easily accompany you. You already live a healthy lifestyle, so why not continue it while you are away!?! Not only will this allow for extra energy throughout the trip, but it can be an easy way to set you up for success when making food choices later in the day. Just because you are on vacation doesn't mean your diet needs to be.

Being away from your routine can be challenging, but a vacation is a great time to try alternate activities. Use this time to do something different such as kayak, take a hike, go for a run on a mountain or barefoot in the sand, or find unique group fitness classes at a local gym. This is a great time to give your mind and body a break from your usual workout routine and allow you to explore a new area. You can also get your family involved and use this as time to create enjoyable, healthy, positive memories.

Make sure you leave for your vacation with a plan. Many decisions on a trip are spontaneous, but planning to workout can't be one of them. Pack with a purpose, bringing with you easy and convenient gym gear. Add workout attire along with resistance bands, a jump rope or even something as small as a deck of cards (see my new VACATION workout at BrittanyBFit.com: http://www.brittanybfit.com/deck-of-cards-vacation-workout/). Although it can be hard to find "me" time on a trip, it is much easier if you have your luggage packed with items that can make working out easy without even leaving your hotel room. Set your alarm and begin your day with a quick workout to jump-start your metabolism.

While a bit of rest and relaxation are always called for, there’s a fine line between taking a break and being lazy. Be the SEXY, STRONG, and UNSTOPPABLE person you are and find some way to stay healthy, happy, and in-shape even while enjoying your time away! Happy travels!:)

<3 Brittany Beede <3
www.BrittanyBFit.com

FitGems Nation/Promoting Real Women Fit Mom Roundtable

2011-05-16T00:41:00.000-05:00

As part of FitGems FitMom Week, FitGems Nation partnered up with Promoting Real Women to do a interpromotional roundtable. Jason and C-Ray asked several moms questions and got some interesting, unique, yet great responses from those who received replies from. The women involved in this special roundtable are Debbie Fowler, Tarna Alderman, Ila Reed, Melaine Redington, Sandy Wiedmeyer, Mandy Henderson, Kristy Tyndall, Danae Zaitz, and Jennifer Worth. We thank all of them for taking the time to be part of this special roundtable. Hope you all enjoy it!

A. Word Association

What is the first thing you think of when you hear…

IFBB?
Debbie Fowler: The best in the world!
Tarna Alderman: Body building
Ila Reed: Professional league
Melaine Redington: Competing
Sandy Wiedmeyer: great bodies
Mandy Henderson: Accomplishment
Kristy Tyndall: Inspiration and success
Danae Zaitz: PRO’s
Jennifer Worth: Competition

judging?
DF: Confusing
TA: Livestock…lol
IR: competition
MR: Subjective
SW: Subjective
MH: Symmetry
KT: Subjective
DZ: SUBJECTIVE
JW: not consistant

motherhood?
DF: Awesome
TA: Roller coasters of emotions
IR: children
MR: Challenging
SW: Joy
MH: Best job in the world
KT: Joyous
DZ: WONDERFUL
JW: The best feeling in the world but the hardest job ever. 24hrs a day 7days a week

early days of figure?
DF: Pioneering
TA: Were better, More inspiring
IR: Gina Aliotti
MR: no knowledge
SW: Little
MH: Jenny Lynn
KT: Tough
DZ: UNKNOWN
JW: pretty bodies

women's physique?
DF: can’t wait
TA: Excited to see it , be a Part maybe =D
IR: classic bodybuilding
MR: excited about the division
SW: Bright idea!
MH: muscles
KT: No heels?
DZ: IT’S ABOUT TIME
JW: should still look feminine

Olympia?
DF: Maybe some day
TA: Pro’s
IR: Bodybuilding, Vegas
MR: No knowledge
SW: Want to go!
MH: Next goal
KT: awe
DZ: MEGA WEEKEND
JW: I should have won

Dedication?
DF: Absolutely necessary
TA: Obsession, “Success without obsession, is just luck” ~Mountain Man
IR: Motivation, Inspiration
MR: intragral
SW: Discipline
MH: Discipline
KT: Challenging
DZ: ME
JW: Something a lot of people DON'T have and what it takes day in and day out to become a champ

Peak Week (hitting your peak before a contest)?
DF: Trial and error
TA: I’m too new to know this one!
IR: Anticipation
MR: Newbie - just learning
SW: exciting
MH: Timing
KT: hungry
DZ: HORRIBLE
JW: I always hit the day of the show, learn your body

Inspiration?
DF: Comes from within
TA: Comes in all shapes and sizes
IR: Erin Stern
MR: Find it in your daily life, dream, dare
SW: Fellow competitors
MH: Mother-in-law overcoming brain cancer
KT: Kelly and Jessica
DZ: FAMILY
JW: My son and strong fit women!

Fellow competitors?
DF: I adore them all
TA: Motivators
IR: Friends, Siouxcountry.com
MR: Treat others as you want to be treated
SW: Inspiration…hehe
MH: Mostly nice 
KT: fun
DZ: SUPPORTIVE
JW: Some great friends and great people others are the devil and deserve to be in jail as they are.( no names)

B. Past and Present Competitors

Give us a one-word (or more) description of the following people:

Jamie Eason
DF: Perky
TA: Beauty
IR: sweet-hearted
MR: inspirational
SW: gorgeous
MH: Idol
KT: cute
DZ: BEAUTIFUL
JW: sexy body

Ava Cowan
DF: Determines
TA: Consistency
IR: gorgeous
MR: Raw
SW: amazing
MH: Gaspari
KT: rising
DZ: ABS
JW: Great symmetry and very beautiful face!!

Tanji Johnson
DF: Inspirational
TA: Promotion
IR: Inspirational
MR: Dedicated
SW: powerful
MH: Fitness
KT: athletic
DZ: CUTE
JW: hard worker with a great routine, and very sweet girl

Cory Everson
DF: #1
TA: Well-balanced physique
IR: amazing
SW: legendary
MH: Icon
KT: iconic
DZ: PIONEER
JW: legend

Rachel McLish
DF: Pioneer
IR: classic
SW: another legendary
MH: Muscles
KT: unbelievable
DZ: TRENDSETTER
JW: 1st female bodybuilder sooo pretty

Erin Stern
DF: Olympia
IR: motivation
SW: graceful
MH: Track
KT: rockstar
DZ: PHYSIQUE
JW: pretty, great body

Nicole Wilkins
DF: Stunning
IR: beautiful
SW: beautiful
MH: Blond
KT: golden
DZ: CHAMP
JW: new school, young, very pretty and as the total package

Iris Kyle
DF: Undeniable
TA: Size
IR: extraordinary
SW: ripped
MH: Buff
KT: ripped
DZ: MUSCLES!
JW: bodybuilder

Adela Garcia
DF: Champ
TA: Grace
IR: athletic
SW: talented
MH: Olympia
KT: Accomplished
DZ: WINNER
JW: a great person, very hard worker, and as keep her body feminine though out all these long hard yrs. A true warrior

Monica Brant
DF: Legendary
TA: What figure should be!
IR: iconic
SW: icon
MH: Successful
KT: comeback
DZ: SUPERBEAST
JW: role model, a beautiful person inside and out, always got robbed in the IFBB and still going strong at almost 40! Amazing

C. Roundtable Questions

1. What does being a fit mother mean to you?
DF: So many moms let themselves go after having children. I like showing them that you can be fit after kids. It just takes a little work.
TA: Ultimate Dedication, Bordering insanity!
IR: It means being something which most strive for, being an inspiration to others. Showing others you can be fit and hot, and be mom.
MR: What I know from 14 years of parenting and 10 years in the classroom is - It is not what you say it is what you do. Children watch our habits closer than we give them credit. I did not realize how fascinating my competing was to young kids so that is a great benefit.
SW: Finding balance in my life. Taking time for myself while still being a good mother and wife.
MH: Practice what you preach to your children
KT: I want to lead by example. I want my child to see the normalcy in clean eating and exercise. Recently he witnessed me doing hill sprints up our very steep driveway and he joined in the fun then asked to do it again the next day!
DZ: FINDING TIME TO KEEP UP WITH MYSELF IN ORDER TO BE THE BEST MOM I CAN BE
JW: Teaching my son the fit way of life!
2. Does having a child who probably prefers sweets make it harder for you to stay on your diet?
DF: I’m not going to lie, I love cookies, ANY kind. But I can control myself.
TA: No. Not really, I like to feed her sweets actually. It’s sick… I know.
IR: No. Most of my family lives off of things I like: Pizza, cookies, snacks. When I have a goal, those things are a treat, and are not part of MY diet. I have enough self-control to avoid it.
MR: I make it a point to have a junk cupboard. It is my choice to eat the way I do and as a family we eat very clean, but if my son wants chips he can grab a serving of that too.
SW: It can be tough to feed them cookies and yummy snacks, but I remind myself that I can eat whatever I want…this is my choice!
MH: A little
KT: The only junk food in my house are the pop-tarts he eats. He gets fruit or marshmallows for treats. Unless I am completely hormonal then I do not have a difficult time abstaining from sweet stuff.
DZ: NO. I AM DEDICATED TO MY GOALS AND MYSELF. OF COUSE IT LOOKS GOOD BUT IT DOESN’T TEMPT ME. PLUS I HAVE MY KIDS ON A PRETTY CLEAN DIET. MY SON WOULD EAT BROCOLLI FOR BREAKFAST IF I WOULD LET HIM.
JW: No, why should they eat something I don't eat, but allow treats... It doesn't phase me
3. What's the hardest part about being a mother in this industry?
DF: This is an expensive sport. I really struggle with the cost. I feel that the money I spend may be better spent on my kids.
TA: Time, temperaments… I’m single, so it’s hard to stay devoted to the house, bills, animals pets, diet, training, and reading book, helping with homework and the elusive snuggling!
IR: I don’t in and of itself feel being a mother creates any more difficulty in being in the industry. However, some may see it as a negative, if you are looking to get into modeling part of the industry. I don’t think there are enough people who appreciate those that are older in this industry.
MR: For me it has not done anything but make me a better mother. I have more energy and an avenue to release stress. My son is very proud of me.
SW: Definitely the balance. You can’t do everything that you would like. There just isn’t time with having a family!
MH: Time management
KT: The hardest thing is finding the time to be a good mother and wife while working full time and making room for vigorous training.
DZ: FINDING TIME TO GO TO THE GYM. IT’S ABOUT A 3 HR ORDEAL FOR ME AND ALTHOUGH THEY LOVE THE GYM, IT’S A LOT TO PUT THEM THROUGH DAY IN AND DAY OUT.
JW: Having loose skin I didn't have b4 baby, so if I wanted to compete again I would have a disadvantage.
4. Is this an industry you would advise your child to be a part of when old enough?
DF: It will be totally up to them and I will support them 100%. I would love for my daughter to try fitness.
TA: Yes, She loves to pose with me. She hates she can’t workout with me, and is always curious about nutrition and how to get bigger muscles and have a body that is sound. My parents have a lot of life style related health issues, Stress, diet, etc. If I can keep her mind focused on health, life will always be easier for her. She gets into push up contests at school with her teachers and peers.. I’m probably more proud of that, than her amazing grades!
IR: Sure, if they wanted to.
MR: I would not discourage. I have grown tremendously as an athlete
SW: Only if they were interested. This takes a ton of dedication and I would never force it on them. However, if they showed interest, I would back them 100%!!
MH: Definitely
KT: Sure. Why not. As long as he focuses on the healthy nutrition and training.
DZ: YES FOR SURE! ALL THE WONDERFUL SUPPORTIVE PEOPLE MAKE IT A GREAT SPORT/INDUSTRY TO BE IN.
JW: The IFBB, no way, but being an athlete, yes
5. After having your child, what it harder or easier to train?
DF: I found it easier. I really wanted to get my body back after 6 babies. I was determined.
TA: I was never interested before. I gained 80 lbs with her, and kept gaining after she was born. She was about two when I realized I needed to make changes to be a better/ happier mom, and I was the only one who could change that in me.
IR: For me, nothing. It never affected my training. Training is part of my life and something I just do.
MR: I have always been very, very active.
SW: I didn’t start training until after I was already a mom. I am a bit of a late-bloomer in the industry!
MH: My baby is my step-son…he works out with me.
KT: I really did not train hard until after the birth of my child. I can confidently say that having a c-section does not mean you can’t have a 6 pack!
DZ: I HAVE 4 KIDS AND I LOVE TO TRAIN. HARDER BECAUSE I HAVE TO BRING 2 OF THEM, EASIER BECAUSE I HAVE MOTIVATION TO BE THE BEST ME I CAN BE FOR THEM.
JW: It is actually easier for me, I think b/c when I was pregnant I gave my body a break for the 1st time sense I was 7yrs old so it responded so much better.
6. How big a role does being a positive role model for your child play into your dedication to being fit?
DF: It’s what being a mom is all about, being a positive role model for our children. They see my hard work and dedication and it inspires them to work harder.
TA: Standing for something, Dedicating yourself to something, Pursuing dreams…Making changes!! And doing all of those as a Woman, a mom.
IR: I want to be a positive role model, I do that by trying to improve their nutrition and promoting staying active.
MR: Huge - I want him to see that women are tough, that overall health correllates directly to the fuel you feed it. He also understands the importance of exercise and loves to ski, bike, swim and stay active too
SW: HUGE. I want my children to value making healthy choices.
MH: It was one of the biggest motivations to working 7 years at getting my Pro-Card…he knows how I fell about giving up (NEVER)!
KT: It is not my driving factor but it is something I take in to consideration. Like I stated earlier, I want to be a positive role model, and that also pertains to fitness and nutrition.
DZ: A VERY BIG ROLE. WE EAT CLEAN, WE EXERCISE AND WE LIVE A FIT LIFESTYLE. THEY LOVE PRETENDING TO LIFT. MY SON PUTS ON A HEADBAND AND SAYS 1,2,1,2,1,2 LIKE HE’S IN A CLASS! IT’S VERY CUTE
JW: A lot
7. How has your training differed after having a child, if any at all?
DF: Can’t really say, I didn’t train like this before I had kids.
TA: It started! Lol It’s definitely hard fitting all the puzzle pieces together to make the day work right with training, nutrition, being home when she gets home, and finding time to spend together.
IR: No
MR: I never really trained until about 2 years ago and my son is 14 - for me it is a way to occupy myself in part so my son can develop his independence without me hovering too close. It's hard for mothers to have three kids grow up so having a personal focus helps.
SW: Again, I am a late bloomer so I have nothing to compare it to!
KT: I didn’t train prior to having my child. The next time I will have about 150 extra calories a day and workout through my entire pregnancy (I hope!!)
DZ: IT HASN’T CHANGED, ALTHOUGH I NEED TO DO MORE ABS NOW THAN BEFORE BECAUSE OF MY C-SECTION.
JW: Yes totally different style training, no more heavy weights, a lot of exercise with my son always keeping it fun.
8. What is your biggest suggestion for a mother who may be trying to get a handle on their child's diet?
DF: My philosophy is to always make healthy options available. When they are little it is easier to make them eat healthy foods. The challenge comes when they are teenagers. You can’t make them eat healthy. You have to be an example and have healthy foods available.
TA: I think explaining why we eat certain things is a good thing. She likes to know why fiber is important, and what foods build muscle. So when she doesn’t want to eat cottage cheese I tell her what the protein in it does, and why that’s important! Kids want to be healthy.
IR: Be a role model in what you eat. Try to prepare foods that are appealing yet healthy for your child.
MR: Your child will develop the eating habits you model - if you eat healthy your child will too.
SW: Don’t be overly strict. Let kids be kids and simply try to help them make healthier choices. Let them be a part of the decision making process or let the help prepare the meal.
MH: Teach them about carbs, protein, fat, fiber, grains and moderation. You would be surprised at how much kids like to learn when it comes to diet and exercise.
KT: As a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist, I see first hand every day what obesity is doing to our entire population, particularly our children. I have taken care of 3 year olds who weigh more than 80lbs and 8 year olds that weigh 160lbs. It is grotesque and deadly. They have hypertension, diabetes, asthma, and acid reflux disease and they are dying….slowly. As a general rule, it is not the fault of the child. Children do not understand proper nutrition and it is obvious that many parents do not either.
I don’t buy juice. My child gets water or milk and an occasional Sprite when we are out to eat. Guess what! He does not know he is missing it. I serve whole wheat Eggos, and he does not realize that other people eat them with butter and syrup. He is content to have it plain. Recently my family served strawberries coated with sugar with dinner. When I politely explained that my child loved strawberries and did not need to eat them covered with empty calories, I was met with resistance. The typical response it, “He’s a kid. Kids need sweets.” Well, I obviously totally disagree. Don’t get me wrong, I do not deprive him. He gets the occasional ice cream or piece of chocolate. We serve cake at birthdays, but we do not typically provide this junk in our house. Can you tell you struck a chord with this question?!!
DZ: DON’T BUY IT!!! IF IT’S NOT IN THE HOUSE, THEY CAN’T HAVE IT. IF YOU GIVE THEM HEALTHY FOOD, THEY’LL GET USED TO THAT AND CRAVE IT. START YOUNG!!
JW: Why feed them stuff u wouldn't eat! Out of site out of mind. Monkey see monkey do, so get a grip on what you eat and watch your kid follow
9. What's the general perceptive of people after you tell them that you're a mother?
DF: I always get “There is no way you’ve had 6 babies.” People are amazed.
TA: I think people always know I’m a mother first! I don’t notice a shock value or anything!
IR: Usually surprised, especially when they know how old they are. I truly feel that weightlifting, and being fit is the fountain of youth.
MR: I am always with my family so not surprised.
SW: I seems to give other moms hope that they can get back in shape after having children. All I takes is discipline, dedication, and hard work. You gotta want it!!!
MH: I think it motivates people to see a competitor who is a mother because they realize if we can do it, they can too.
KT: They can’t believe I have a child. One of my newest role models in a 49 year old fellow figure competitor with 5 kids. Her body is so tight and amazing!
DZ: THEY CAN’T BELIEVE I HAVE 4 KIDS. 18, 14 AND 5 YR OLD TWINS. THEY THINK I’M IN MY LATE 20’S AND I’M REALLY FIT SO THEY CAN’T BELIEVE I’VE HAD 4.
JW: “Wow, I would have never guessed”
10. Has your child seen you compete? If so, did they enjoy it?
DF: They all went to my first show. They were very proud of their mom. But it’s not there thing so I won’t subject them to a 5 hour show. However, if I asked them to be there I know they would go.
TA: Yes- she was pretty excited, but it was a long day for her. She likes seeing me on stage, but what she really gets excited about is the fitness routines! As a bodybuilder we don’t get princess crowns… haha. She was disappointed for that.
IR: Both of my children have been to competitions. While they don’t like the long shows, they have both always been extremely supportive and I feel are truly proud of what I have done.
MR: Yes, at first he thought the whole idea was skeptical - but now he's one of my best supporters.
SW: My kids have been to all but one of my competitions. They love it and I love hearing them yell for me in the audience. It makes me smile brighter and puts me at ease!
MH: Jeffrey went to all of my shows in the beginning and was very proud of me…but after watching too many shows, he got bored (he was only 6 years old). Now he cheers me on from home.
KT: No. So far he has been too young. It is a long day. He is going to my next competition in June. He is excited….mostly because I told him he could get on the stage after pre-judging!
DZ: YES THEY HAVE. THEY DON’T LIKE WHEN I PREP, THEY DON’T LIKE THAT MY CALORIE INTAKE IS SO LOW BUT THEY LIKE SEEING ME UP ON STAGE. THEY YELL LOUDER THAN ANYONE IN THERE.
JW: No

D. Closing

What would you tell a mother who wants to get back into shape after having a child or children? Also any final words you have for your fans. If you have any shows coming up, you can plug them here.

Debbie Fowler
The best advice I could give is set a big goal, then set smaller ones to mark your progress. Nothing happens over night, it took you a long time to have all your babies so it’s going to take a while to get your body back. It will happen. I’m prepping for the Toronto Super Show in June. It’s going to be a great show. I’d also like to thank all the fans, husbands, wives, and kids who support us and put up with our contest prep. You guys are the best. I love you Todd, Nick, Gabby and Ben!

Tarna Alderman
I think fitness means different things for different people. I think your children, will have a sense of pride in who you are, and what you do if its the decision you make. I think as women and as parents we always feel guilty taking time for our selves. What it teaches my daughter is that I’m not just her mom. She gets to look at me as a dedicated bodybuilder, and be proud that I’m her mom too!

Ila Reed
Make a plan, and stick to it. Research nutrition and training. And don’t be afraid of weight training and lifting heavy. That is usually my biggest advice. Be consistent and you can achieve what you want.
In the end, if you want something, go after it. Pursue your dreams.
My first show this year will be Team Universe, where I will be making my National Debut. It will be exciting. I’m hoping to bring a much improved and competitive physique to the stage.

Melanie Ridington
I would say - make yourself a priority. Live each day as a role model. Show respect to your body by feeding it nourishing food and make healthy eating a cornerstone of family. You will be giving your child skills for a healthy life.
Competed Saturday May 14 - Kenai Alaska

Sandy Wiedmeyer
Seriously, if I can do it, anyone can. As I said you have to want it! You have to put in the time and be willing to make a few sacrifices. The end product it so worth it!
Thank you to everyone who has been and continues to be so supportive. It is so refreshing that I am constantly meeting new friends in the industry! You can follow me at: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Sandy-Wiedmeyer-NGA-and-IFPA-Figure-PRO/107796602629018

Mandy Henderson
Always make time for yourself. Your kids will learn how important it is to stay in shape and it will teach them about discipline. If you lead a healthy lifestyle, your kids will follow. It’s so cool when your 13 year old is spotting you on the chest press. It makes you realize you have taught him well.
Being a mom is the greatest accomplishment you can achieve and being a FIT mom is something to be proud of!
Thanks for reading and give your mom a hug next time you see her!

Kristy Tyndall
You have to be ready. You have to have your mind set to make a change. I think the nutritional component plays that largest roll. It determines how you feel which determines how hard you train. I like to say, you can’t out-train a bad diet.

Danae Zaitz
JUST GO! GET TO THE GYM, GET MOVING AND IT’LL START TO FALL BACK INTO PLACE. IT’S HARD TO GET STARTED BUT ONCE YOU DO, YOU’LL WANT TO GO MORE AND MORE.
THANK YOU TO MY HUSBAND, FAMILY AND FRIENDS. I LOVE YOU ALL!
I WILL BE COMPETING AT:
ABA NATURAL NORTH AMERICAN (WWW.NATURLAOLYMPIA.COM ) AUG 13, 2011.
NGA CHICAGO WINDY CITY CLASSIC (WWW.NATIONALGYM.COM ) SEPT. 2011 DATE TBD
MUSCLEMANIA MIDWEST (WWW.MUSCLEMANIA.COM ) OCT 8TH, 2011.
PLEASE SHOW YOUR SUPPORT BY COMING TO THESE SHOWS. WE ALL WORK REALLY HARD AND WOULD LOVE TO SEE YOU OUT THERE!
DANAE ZAITZ, 38 YR OLD MOTHER OF 4!

Jennifer Worth
I would tell them do it now and do it for you and them, cause you will set an example for them! You can't turn back what you teach them at a young age so set the bar high.
I don't have any shows but I do have a guest performance coming up at the Southern States in July, it will be my 1st performance sense 2006 and since baby! :) if you’re in Florida and you’re a fan please come out and watch... I can't wait for my son to watch me!!!!

Once again, thank you to all the mothers that were involved in this special roundtable! For more on Promoting Real Woman, go to http://promotingwomen.blogspot.com. For more on FitGems Nation, go to http://www.fitgemsnation.net and http://fitgems.blogspot.com.

Fit Mom Spotlight: Tracy Bodner

2011-05-13T23:00:00.000-05:00

Photo credit: Muscular Development

Tracy Bodner, known by many as IslandGirl, is an NPC athlete originally from the Island of Oahu, meaning she's from Hawaii, now living in Colorado. She is of Japanese and Irish decent. Before she moved to Colorado, she began a nutrition nutrition consultant/personal training business with her husband Cameron. Time was taken off for a bit to enjoy married life and explore other things. They became judges during that time, and now they judge all over Colorado under the leadership and guidance of NPC Chairperson Jeff Taylor. They also reignited their nutrition/personal training business and named it Total Package, which they have a private forum for their clients.

As for Tracy herself, she has competed in bodybuilding and figure throughout her career. She first started to compete in bodybuilding, then figure sparked her interest. She went back and forth with bodybuilding and figure over the last couple of years. Tracy stays pretty lean nearly all year round. True story on one contest. She wasn't planning on competing in last year's Colorado States show, but two weeks prior to the show, she decided to do it for the heck of it. Guess what?! She would end up winning her class. Yes, her physique is that amazing. Problem is...during her bodybuilding days, she was a bit of the small site, and for today's figure, she's a bit on the vascular/conditioning side, which is a no-no. Enter women's physique, which looks like it's going to be tailor-made for Tracy. She will be competing at the Jr. USAs in less that 2 weeks in women's physique.

I won't give away her age, but she looks like she's half the age she really is. Her work ethic, dedication, and commitment are a testament to who she is. A real beauty inside and out, you can catch her on Siouxcountry a lot, as she's a moderator there. With everything she does and everything she represents, Tracy is definitely "fit mother" personified.

For more on Tracy, visit her website at http://www.tracybodner.com.

Brittany Beede Joins FitGems Nation!!

2011-05-13T21:59:00.001-05:00

Welcome to FitGems Nation, former WWE Diva BRITTANY BEEDE!!!

In what has to be the biggest acquisition to FitGems yet, we are honored and privileged to announce that Brittany Beede, known better as former WWE Diva Jamie Keyes, is joining FitGems Nation as a special guest blog contributor! Beginning next week, and continue periodically, Brittany will be providing blogs about topics from the fitness industry.

I have personally became a fan of Brittany during her days on NXT Season 2 as a ring announcer and continued to be a big fan of hers during her small run on NXT Season 3 as a competitor before leaving WWE. Since then, she has went on to pursue her fitness dreams and goals by opening her official website and being a fitness model for Body By Brazil with top fitness stars as current Figure Olympia champion Erin Stern and top fitness personality Jennifer Nicole Lee.

Many have pinned Brittany as the next top fitness celebrity (which doesn't shock us as you yourselves voted her as a One to Watch Fitness Entrepreneur during last year's FitGems Awards), and with a lot of experience in the fitness industry and not even 30 yet, don't be surprised if this former WWE Diva become of the biggest names in the entire fitness industry before it's all said and done.

Brittany's first post will be next week, but until then, take a look at what we've wrote about Brittany from the past:

http://fitgems.blogspot.com/2010/06/celebrity-spotlight-brittany-beede-wwes.html

http://fitgems.blogspot.com/2010/10/brittany-beede-fitnesss-next-breakout.html

Once again, we would like to thank Brittany for being part of our blog and providing FitGems Nation with an opportunity to share her fitness knowledge with us! Please visit her website at http://www.brittanybfit.com, follow her on Twitter at http://twitter.com/BrittanyBeede, and "like" her on Facebook.

To All Fit Mothers...Thank You

2011-05-08T12:27:00.000-05:00

Today is a special day dedicated to all moms everywhere, Mothers Day. Everyone of us wouldn't be here without a mother. She had us in her stomach for at the very least...NINE MONTHS. Their lives are on the line when they give birth to us. The pain they go through over the process is more than most could bear. Some have actually lost their lives giving birth, no lie. But when they do give birth, it's the most rewarding thing in the world. The reason I, a male, know that is because there's not a day that goes by that I don't say "I love you" to my mom and grandmom. Without them, there would be no me, and there would be no FitGems Nation. Simple as that.

Mothers are the backbone of every family. They are the ones who make sure food is on the table, their children can go to school, family can come to them for advice, etc. Basically, being a mother is a 24/7 job that you get your paid (or SHOULD get paid) with more than just money. Respect from your family and self-respect and pride. Now, imagine all of that...and heading to the gym to prep for a show. Like those without children, they must do cardio and weight-train to bring an amazing physique to the stage. They have to get a suit, fix their hair, tan, get the right shoes, and everything else a competitor needs to do before, during, and after a contest. It's hectic doing that without being a mother, so to do all the contest prep and competitions AND be a mother at the same time?! How can you NOT have respect for all the mothers who are in this industry?

Being a fit mom is more than just being an athlete. You are an ambassador to EVERY mother in the world. You're telling them that it's not too late to live your dream. You're telling then that you can be fit and be a mother as well. Basically, you're a walking fountain of youth and a shining light for those that need it.

To every fit mother that is competing, had competed, or is still in shape and doing their part to help mothers and non-mothers stay in shape, on behalf of FitGems Nation, thank you for everything you're doing. You are truly the definition of hard work and dedication. May you continue to inspire the current generation, as well as the generations that come after you. Thank you for being an inspiration. Thank you for being a Fit Mom. Thank you for being...you.

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

2011-05-05T15:30:00.000-05:00

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! :)

Steel Divas: New Show on Lifetime

2011-05-04T00:10:00.000-05:00

It's always good to pay attention to your Twitter (if you have one). The most shocking news can happen when you least expect it (I believe we've ALL experienced that over the past few days, but that's for another story). This news I'm about to post here came to light due to a tweet from someone I follow on Twitter, MsPersianDoll (http://twitter.com/MsPersianDoll). She mentioned that Felicia Romero was on "Steel Divas". I went, "Huh?! What the heck is Steel Divas?" So I asked her was it a local or national show? She replied back that it was a National show. She would post more tweets mentioning that it was on Lifetime. "DAAANNNGGG" was my first reaction. Immediately I searched to get more info about it...so here's what I've found out about the show.

Steel Divas is a reality show focusing on female competitors getting ready for competitions, with the main focus on figure. I believe the show is based from Arizona from what information I've gathered. Gym owners Roxanna Wood and IFBB Figure Pro Felecia Romero are featured in this series, as well as others. According to a quote from Roxanna (http://www.dailypress.com/health/dp-nws-steel-diva-20110503,0,5156473.story), "It's housewives meet pumping iron."

This aired Tuesday night at 11PM Eastern/10PM Central on Lifetime television. I have not seen any replay times for this episode, but I can tell you that I'm stoked to see what happens with this show going forward. I will do everything in my power to let you all know when the next show will be on ahead of time so we can all watch, get this trending on Twitter, post this like crazy on Facebook and the message boards, etc. This show looks like a great opportunity to showcase a different side of this industry, as most mainstream people only have knowledge of female bodybuilders. Steel Divas could change that a bit, even if by a little. Hey, every bit helps. Let's do our part on the next show by watching it live or setting your DVRs. Either way, let's show the ladies we got their backs.

FitGems FitMom 2011 Prize Package Increases (As Well as Deadline to Enter)

2011-05-02T00:58:00.001-05:00

In addition to the winner winning $125 via PayPal and a item from the FitGems Online Store, the winner of this year's FitGems FitMom contest will also receive a full size bottle of ErgoBurn and several packets of AfterMath from ErgoGenix. For those that are unaware of what ErgoGenix is, they were named the 2010 New Brand of the Year on Bodybuilding.com. For more info, go to http://www.ergo-genix.com/.

So here's what the winner of this year's FitGems FitMom contest will get:

$125 via Paypal
One item from the FitGems Online Store
Bottle of ErgoBurn Metabolic Amplifier
Several AfterMath Post-Workout Recovery Complex packets

With this new development, a decision has been made to extend the contest a bit longer. We will take entries up until no later than THIS TUESDAY AT NOON EASTERN TIME, which means voting will begin Tuesday at 1PM Eastern Time. There are five entries thus far.

Good luck to everyone!!

Melissa Cunningham at 2 Weeks Out from her Show

2011-04-18T09:14:00.000-05:00

Melissa's getting closer and closer to her first contest of the year, and shes looking great! For pics of her at 2 weeks out, as well as a written update, go to http://melissacunninghamifpapro.blogspot.com/2011/04/2-weeks-out-sneak-peak-pics.html.

Almost there, Melissa!! :)

Sharing a TenSpot with...Amy Yastremski

2011-04-17T20:18:00.000-05:00

Amy Yastremski is a figure competitor who's quickly making strides in figure, aiming for her pro card. She just competed last year, making her debut at the NPC Mid-Atlantic Classic in Charlotte, North Carolina. She would end up winning her class and the overall title, as well as Best Presentation. If 2010 is any indication, expect big things from her going into 2011 and beyond.

Photo provided by Amy herself

FitGems Nation: Let’s kick this off by telling us a bit about yourself.
Amy Yastremski: I am a 30yr old ER nurse with a 3yr daughter, and have been married to my husband Jeff since Oct 2007.

FitGems: When did you first start competing?
Amy: I started training for my first competition, the NPC Mid-Atlantic Classic in the summer of 2010

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?
Amy: I do all weight training. I hate cardio!! Any cardio that I do is at home on the treadmill

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?)
Amy: No, I have not had anyone think that. Usually people just say “you must workout”, and that is when I explain to them about competing in the figure class.

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?
Amy: Definitely. I think that the new physique and bikini divisions allow for a greater variety of female athletes to compete.

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?
Amy: The shows that I have been a part of have leaned towards a harder look, but I would like it to remain “soft”. I would rather the physique and figure classes look similar, than the bikini and figure classes.

FitGems: If you weren’t a part of the female physique world, what would you be doing right now as your profession?
Amy: I do work as a nurse in the ER full time. Competing is only a hobby at this point. I like the idea of having competitions be for “fun” right now.

FitGems: What (if anything) would you change about any of the IFBB female divisions?
Amy: I again have only just started competing, but I would like to see the figure division be on the softer side, physique be in the middle, and bodybuilding division obviously have the hard look. I wonder were to draw the line between figure and bodybuilding.

FitGems: Which competitor (past or present) you look up to the most for your inspiration?
Amy: My trainer Kisha Wilson, and Quincy Roberts have been instrumental in getting me to were I am today.

FitGems: What are your future plans heading into 2011 and beyond, and where do you see your career after you’re done competing?
Amy: I am looking forward to competing in my first national show in the summer of 2011, and would like to obviously earn my pro card. I would love to be able to do some fitness modeling, and one day make the cover of Oxygen Magazine, or any of the other fitness magazines. I just want to enjoy myself.

For more on Amy, visit her website at www.amyyaz.com, And search for "Amy Yastremski Figure Competitior fan page" on Facebook. We wish you best of luck in future competitions, Amy!!

Sharing a TenSpot with...Mishon Shore

2011-04-06T15:54:00.000-05:00

Mishon Shore is a NPC bikini competitor who just competed last year. A beautiful woman from the inside and out, Mishon took the time out of her busy schedule to conduct and interview with us.

Photo provided by Mishon herself

FitGems Nation: Let’s kick this off by telling us a bit about yourself.
Mishon Shore: Let me first say thank you for this interview! My name is Mishon Shore. I’m a 25 year old NPC national level bikini competitor. I’m also a bartender and hairdresser! I bar manage my boyfriends night club also. So needless to say I stay pretty busy! I’ve been blessed with a wonderful family, great friends, and a supportive boyfriend who all stand behind me with my competing.

FitGems: When did you first start competing?
Mishon: I started competing in October 2010. I’ve always been interested in competitions but never really knew how to get into them. I started training and started a diet and competed in my first show in Charlotte NC in October. I placed first in my class and won the overall! From that moment on I was hooked!

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?
Mishon: I have a set plan for every day. I have a certain schedule mapped out for each gym session. I do weight-training and cardio every day. It’s a good mixture of both. I absolutely love going to the gym and training. I feel like I’m one step closer to my goals with each rep and set.

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?)
Mishon: HAHA, funny you should ask. I always get asked what I do when I’m bartending at the club I manage. I actually received a 100 tip to have a flex off with a smaller guy. I thought it was hilarious! Its fun to have fun with what you do, and definitely get acknowledged that your in great shape. Most people just think I’m a gymnast or something along those lines.

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?
Mishon: Absolutely. I love that they’ve added women’s physique to the mix. I feel that it gives every female a place that they feel they fit in and also a physique class that’s attainable for them.

FitGems: For those that don’t see bikini as a real division in the NPC and IFBB, what would you say to them to try and change their mind?
Mishon: Bikini is a tough class. Its very competitive. There are so many things that go along with this class. I think its rather hard to find a nice balance between being fit and tight and not overly conditioned. There’s a fine line between bikini and figure in some competitors. You have to really find out what’s best for you in training and dieting. I’m lucky and tend to be very lean naturally so my diet is a lot more relaxed. I train every day just like any other class would. So I hope that someone that didn’t think bikini was a real division could somewhat understand that it definitely isn’t as easy as one would think.

FitGems: If you weren’t a part of the female physique world, what would you be doing right now as your profession?
Mishon: I’m a full-time hairdresser. So I imagine I would be focusing on opening my own salon. I’d love to even get my personal training certificate and fit that in somewhere. It’s just so hard for me to even begin to imagine not being in this industry. It’s such a way of life for me now!

FitGems: What (if anything) would you change about any of the IFBB female divisions?
Mishon: I always thought there should be a class between figure and womens bodybuilding, but after they added the new physique class I honestly can’t think of anything I’d change.

FitGems: Which competitor (past or present) you look up to the most for your inspiration?
Mishon: I absolutely love Nicole Nagrani and Amanda Latona. I always look to see how there physique looks because I think they set a great standard for the bikini division.

FitGems: What are your future plans heading into 2011 and beyond, and where do you see your career after you’re done competing?
Mishon: I’m heading into my first competition of 2011 with the best feeling. I’m 10 days away from our NC state show and I’m feeling like a million bucks! I would love to attain my pro card this year and that’s definitely at the top of the list of goals for 2011. Plan is NC states, JR USA, then every national show till I win!

Women's Physique Division Interview: Kerri Bolen

2011-04-05T14:55:00.000-05:00

As you all know, women's physique will be making its debut in the NPC in a few weeks at the Jr. USAs in Charleston, SC on May 21. No one knows the look for the new division, so it's going to be interesting to see how things play out. Between now and May 21, FitGems Nation will be posting interviews from those that will be competing in women's physique. Our first women's physique interview is with Kerri Bolen, a former lightweight bodybuilder and figure competitor from Williston, SC. What better way to debut in women's physique than close to home!

Photo provided by Kerri herself.

FitGems Nation: Thank you for taking the time to do this interview with us! If you could, may you tell us a little bit about yourself?
Kerri Bolen: I am a Christian wife and mother - I have a wonderful, supportive husband and two good boys: a son, Dalton who is 19 and a step-son, Cullen
who is 22. I'm very active. I enjoy working out, competing, water skiing, hunting, fishing, horseback riding,playing the guitar, and
singing.

FitGems: What made you decide to get into female muscle competitions in the first place?
Kerri: Initially my uncle, Edward Givens, got me interested as he was real big into lifting. After that, I picked up every issue of "Muscle and Fitness" magazine I could get my hands on. I loved the way the female bodybuilders looked - the pioneers like Cory Everson, Rachel McLish, and Carla Dunlap - that sparked my desire to compete.

FitGems: What are your feelings about the NPC/IFBB having a women’s physique division?
Kerri: I am very excited about the new division - I think it will be a good fit for me. There are a lot of other ladies that aren't
big enough for female bodybuilding but are too muscular for figure that may also fall into this category.

FitGems: What are your expectations of the new division?
Kerri: I would expect the new division to be a good "middle ground" between the figure division and the female bodybuilding division because there is obviously a big gap there.

FitGems: Which show(s) are you competing in this year?
Kerri: I am definitely competing at the Jr. USAs in Charleston, SC this May. After that, I am not sure - I may take a short break.

FitGems: What kind of preparations (weight-training/cardio) have you done to prepare
for women’s physique?
Kerri: I weight train 4-5 x a week (kind of heavy), cardio 6 x per week, and practicing my posing routine, also.

FitGems: Who do you feel needs to compete in women’s physique in the IFBB?
Kerri: I like Lori Steele's look. I'm not sure of any other competitors, right off hand.

FitGems: With the new 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?
Kerri: There may have been enough divisions already if more of a distinction between bikini and figure had been made; so surely there are enough now.

FitGems: Along those lines, do you see each division eventually having a clear distinction as to an “ideal” look? There are some thinkingthat the winning looks for figure and bikini are dangerously close to being the same, while there's a somewhat clear look for women's bodybuilding and fitness.
Kerri: I feel like the physique division will be distinct and I'm hoping there will be more of a difference between the bikini and figure divisions because yes, it is getting mighty close between those two.

FitGems: What made you decide to compete in the women's physique division?
Kerri: From what I have heard, they might be going for a softer look in figure this year. I like the look I get from lifting heavy, however, I don't have the size for female bodybuilding. I believe I may have found the division where I will be a "perfect fit".

FitGems: Are you a new competitor in this sport or have you competed in a different division prior to women's physique?
Kerri: I have competed in women's bodybuilding several times and placed well in the lightweight division. Last year I competed in in three figure shows and placed real well in that, also. But I feel my style and appearance are better suited to the new physique class.

FitGems: Some people think that eventually women's physique will indeed replace womens bodybuilding going forward. Do you see that happening or do you see the division remaining separate for the time being?
Kerri: I hope female bodybuilding is not eliminated. But who knows? It will be interesting to see how all that plays out.

FitGems: What's one thing that most people would be surprised to know about you?
Kerri: My husband and I sing at church on a fairly regular basis and my husband plays the guitar for me.

FitGems: How would you convince people to join women's physique or any female muscle division for that matter?
Kerri: I would tell them that competing in any of the divisions takes a lot of hard work and sacrifice, but having a goal to work towards keep you motivated and on the right track throughout the year and it's a lot of fun!

FitGems: How big do you see women's physique becoming (as in participants and growth - not necessarily the size of the competitors)?
Kerri: I think there will be a big turnout, even for the first show (the Jr. USAs) coming up this May. A lot of the figure competitors thathave too muscle will end up competing in this division and I believe some of the female bodybuilders that are really too small for the bodybuilding division will be able to come down and compete in the physique division.

FitGems: How can people contact you if they want to know your upcoming plans and/or sponsor you in the near future?
Kerri: They can contact me through my email address: kerri.bolen@yahoo.com
Any help is appreciated, but I especially could use some help with competition expenses such as entry fees, etc. I would also like to thank Shawn Beach from ChizzledWear for sponsoring me with awesome workout gear (www.chizzledwear.com) and Kristal Richardson from Top Secret Nutrition (www.topsecretnutrition.com) for sponsoring me with some amazing supplements.

FitGems: Once again, thank you for taking the time to do this interview. Good luck in womens physique
Kerri: Thank you very much - I enjoyed doing the interview!

Once again, we would like to thank Kerri Bolen for taking the time to conduct an interview for us. Kerri will be part of history next month at the Jr. USAs!!!

Melissa Cunningham at 4 Weeks Out from her Show

2011-04-05T14:26:00.000-05:00

Melissa Cunninghan is getting closer and closer to stepping on stage for her first show this year! She recently did a blog with her at 4 weeks out, with some progress pics to boot! Visit her blog at http://melissacunninghamifpapro.blogspot.com/2011/04/posing-4wks-outprogress.html and let her know how well she's doing! :)

5wks out-Dont think about it,JUST DO IT! (Melissa Cunningham's Journal Entry #9)

2011-04-05T14:17:00.001-05:00

5 and 6weeks (35 and 42 days) out from show days!!! where is the time going???
eeeeep!
i have been feeling "off" my game this week,but have pushed through the workouts and cardio anyways. today i was really not feeling the gym mojo. maybe it was because i knew i had to get in a BRICK session,i knew i had to get an under 21 5k...and i wasn't in the mood to run,or bike,or lift. i just wanted to go back home and sleep.
i put my head down and plowed through a not fun workout.
4x10 pullups ss w
4x10 dips
4x15 lat pulldowns
4x15 straight arm lat pulls ss w
4x30 dirty 30's
4x15 close grip rows
4x12 reverse flys
4x15 overhead extensions ss w
4x12 DB kickbacks w twist
towards the end of the workout,i stalled and stalled.....
and then i told myself......
Melissa,
dont think about it, JUST DO IT!
so i finished the workout strong and got in a GREAT BRICK session
bike-9.5 miles in 31 minutes..
IMMEDIATELY jumped on the TM and cranked out a 5k in 20:48.....
mile 1: 7:13...felt very comfortable
mile 2: 6:38...still felt good
then finished the last mile going from 6:30 down to 6min mile pace....
:D
3 weeks until triathlon
5weeks until WNBF Pro qualifier
6weeks until first Pro show of the year, World Cup qualifier
7weeks until Marine Core 1/2 Marathon.......
i must be crazy.....