I prayed for a short term goal that would keep me motivated to reach my long term goal. A friend hooked me up with an active NPC competitor. I was lucky enough to have a brother from a black mother who I have been friends with for 12 years and is a Certified Advanced Personal Trainer who was willing to put up with me.

I love to take my body beyond its limit. Being a fit female is empowering, and I love to represent for women in the gym. Too many women are intimidated by men in the gym, so I rock it.

I workout by the motto "Once you reach your limit, do 10 more reps." Lift now, cry later! Lift heavy, or don't lift at all!!

"I lift things up, and then put them down." Follow me on twitter @MandeMartinez