Initially, the reason I started lifting was to gain weight, not lose it. I used to run half marathons and do at least an hour of cardio every day, weights were never on my radar! I wanted to change the way I looked and so started lifting weights and following an IIFYM diet.
After a while of IIFYM and training myself, I saw noticeable improvements and decided to take the process to a new level and compete - my first competition was in November 2014 (Miami Pro) and I placed second in the Miss Bikini Tall category and won my pro card!

Pro debut was in April 2015 and I came second - more than I could have hoped for, making me an MP Elite Pro card holder. My plans this year are to make some improvements and growth before I step on stage again next summer.

Some people have 'down time' watching television or reading - but for me the gym is the place I can switch off, focus, and clear my mind of everything other than the work I am doing for the next hour and thinking about what changes I am making as a step closer to my goal. I love the structure, results and believe it or not, the pain of a great work out and well planned nutrition program.