But in 2001 I picked up a copy of Muscle & Fitness Magazine so I could learn more about working out. As I was going through the articles I came across a contest called The Hard Rock Challenge. Every month the magazine would have a new workout and diet to follow. So I thought it would be fun to see if I could do the 12 - weeks of exercise and diet. I started keeping a workout log, and by the second month I was keeping track of everything I ate. The contest became the focal point in my life. I had no idea that I would learn so much. I enjoyed the workouts and the eating clean was not quite as hard as I thought it would be, but it was still a challenge. The cardio is what I hated to do, but I was not going to let that get in the way of me completing the contest. The last month I was able to jog for 65 to 75 minutes. I was proud of myself for being able to do this. I never thought I would be able to jog for that long without stopping. Week by week my friends would tell me that I was looking better and better, they could not believe how fast my physique was changing. This really encouraged me to keep going. Even people at the gym would ask me questions about working out and how to do this or that exercise, I really enjoyed helping other with their exercises. I was a little surprised that they were asking me, after all I still had a lot to learn. At the end of the challenge I had a photo shoot done, which was a blast! The challenge became a life changing experience for me. It boosted my self - esteem,giving me more confidence in my abilities, and also gave me a more positive outlook on life. That was just the beginning of my new life in fitness. In 2003 my picture was picked to be published in the book "Hormonally Intelligent Exercise " by Rob Faigin I was Thrilled to say the least. I had been following the eating plan in his first book "Natural Hormonal Enhancement" I was impressed with the research and knowledge in this book. So I knew his exercise book would also be a good one. In 2004 I flew to California to have a 4 hour training session with then National Figure Champion Jenny Lynn. She was Awesome to meet and learn from. Then in September I entered my first figure contest in Washington. Placing second put me on cloud nine! I could not have been happier. I was hooked and entered another contest a couple of weeks later placing third. I love to compete, see how I can improve and go to the next level. I look forward to getting on stage again. In 2005 I became a certified fitness trainer through ISSA. It has been one of the best things I have ever done. Like they say knowledge Is Power . I always enjoy learning more. This year I was honored to be picked as Athlete Of The Month for March on Dr. Squat.com site. Dr. Fred Hatfield, Ph.D. was my favorite instructor when I was studying for my trainers certification at ISSA. Being a sponsored athlete I received free product (Pro Power). Great quality products that I still use. I also enjoyed answering questions on the forum. Met some very nice people from all over the world. I am a Personal Fitness Trainer In Meridian, Idaho at PRO FITNESS STUDIO..... Would love to hear from you.....

I Love everything about health, fitness, and working out. It gives me a high....Keeps me motivated, and striving to improve myself. Plus the energy, and good health I get from working out.