I got started working out because I was always interested in losing fat. But I was a yoyo exerciser. Could never seem to stick with it, and hated cardio. I didn't make it a lifestyle until my late brother, who loved bodybuilding, started working out with me and showing me how to lift.

He was the first person to ever show real encouragement and excitement about building muscles and applauding my awesome vascularity. He was the first person to think it was cool for women to be strong and ripped. And he loved The Terminator. In the gym, he was Arnold and I was Sara Connor.

I am STILL working on upper body strength. Jason would be sooo proud the day I flip someone's bed and start doing a gazillion chin ups!!

I love bodybuilding because it is the only form of exercise that really changed my shape. It also has a very nostalgic appeal to me. I bonded with my bodybuilding brother during our lifting and post lifting meals. Also, I hate cardio!