Thursday, August 20, 2015

Vancouver Pro/Am & Expo 2015 - Erin Q Harding IFBB Pro

If you felt extra-safe sitting in the crowd watching the 2015 Vancouver Pro/Am & Expo show, it was with good reason. The women's side included not just one, but two pros who just happen to be police officers. For added safety, throw one of the judges into that fraternity as well. 

IFBB Figure Pro Erin Q Harding doesn't just step into any role when she exits the stage for her day job: Her profession comes with a gun, a badge an an oath to uphold the law. Along with the demands of being a police officer, she still finds time to train and be a mom.

Transitioning from figure pro to police officer is something Harding takes in stride. As she explains, "The way I see it is that they are each different aspects of my life. When I'm at work, my focus is work and whatever task I'm doing there; and when it's training time, or girlie stage time, my cop hat comes off. Being a police officer does not define me as a person; it is part of who I am. I think it's so important to have more than work in your life. Stepping on stage is truly important in keeping me well rounded!" 

Oh, and if you're wondering what the Q stands for, it's Quinn. 

What's your age, height, competition weight and off-season weight?

I'm 38, 134 lbs competition and 145 pounds off-season.

Were you athletic growing up? 

I was extremely athletic growing up playing almost every sport there was however, my main focus was competitive swimming and rowing. When I was born my mom owned a swim school so I was basically born right into the water and competitive swimming. I found the sport of rowing when I started high school. 

How did you get started lifting weights and training? 

I discovered the gym when I was about 21. It was my best friend who first introduced me to the gym and lifting weights. In the beginning, lifting weights seemed so crazy to me because I was so used to playing sports, but needless to say, it didn't take long for me to get hooked!

How long have you been competing and what inspired you to start?

I didn't start competing until about 11 years after discovering the gym. I'd always been interested in the competitive world, but didn't know much about it other than watching the fitness competitions on TV. I found those very intriguing given that I had a little background in dance, but alway wrote it off figuring I would never be able to do the diet. In 2010, my husband made an appointment with a local prep coach and I started prepping for a novice show. All I really needed was that last 5% push to commit myself.



Where and when did you turn pro?

I earned my pro card as a natural athlete in my own backyard here in Vancouver, July 2012, at the Canadian Nationals, 11 months after having my daughter via c-section.

What are your goals as a competitor?

I always strive to be better than what I was the last time I was on stage. Competing is a hobby for me as I have a full-time job that's far from the fitness industry. As a pro competitor, I strive to inspire amateurs to enjoy their process as competitors.

Do you enjoy performing onstage?

As I mentioned above, I have a dance background, so when I get to be on stage it feels very comfortable. So yes, I do enjoy performing on stage!

If you could change one thing about your physique, what would it be?

Ohhh that waist! I wasn't blessed with a teeny tiny waist!

What do you think is the strongest part of your physique?

I would have to say my delts. I was blessed with wide clavicles and the sports I played growing up created a fantastic foundation for the sport of figure!

What's one thing about you that people would be surprised to know? 

I was lucky enough to grow up with three moms! My mom came out as a lesbian when I was five-years-old, so I was fortunate enough to have a very liberal upbringing. I truly believe this has added so much to my personality; I'm more accepting and non-judgmental because of it.

Anything else we should know about you or that you would like to add?

I am a 100% natural athlete. Always have and always will be!

Was the Vancouver show the first time you've ever been on stage with a fellow police officer?

No, I have competed with other police officers in the past.

What's a typical day like for you when you have to juggle training and being a police officer?

It really comes down to being prepared. The start time of my shift really dictates when I can get my training in. I always try to get my training in before work because you never know what the day will hold. I always carry my food with me. I love my 6-pack cooler!

Have you ever arrested someone that recognized you as a competitor? 

No, thankfully!

What type of reaction do you get at work when other members find out they're working with a pro figure competitor?

They generally don't really understand what being a "pro" means. They generally respond with a "ohhh" kind of like "that's nice." The ones that do understand are super-inspired and generally want to hit the gym with me. I find that so inspiring!

Do you feel the extra weight training you do gives you a physical edge as a police officer?

Absolutely! When I'm in uniform I look small which I feel is an edge because I actually have a "boom boom pow pow" gun show happening that no one can see! I get to be secretly strong under my uniform while presenting as a small female officer!

How long have you been on the force and what motivated you to join? 

I've been a police officer for going on 13 years. It was my best friend who opened my eyes to a career in policing. She was preparing to become one and this piqued my interest. I was actually in university to become a kindergarten teacher!

Find Erin Q Harding on the web:

Instagram

Facebook

ErinHarding.ca

twitter @ErinHardingPro

Periscope @ErinHardingPro

Vancouver Pro/Am & Expo - July 9/10 2016

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Monday, August 17, 2015

Vancouver Pro/Am & Expo 2015 - Faces In The Crowd


Ashley Joelle Wing


How long have you been competing?

I've been training for 6 years. I started getting into it after my daughter was born.

When was your last show? 

My last and only show was for the Inside Fitness Magazine Cover Model Search. I competed in fitness, but my goals and what I will compete in next is figure. Working my way to physique!

What's the longest you spent in line at the expo?

I waited in line for an hour to meet Dana Linn Bailey, but unfortunately I couldn't stay and meet her. I was very disappointed that I couldn't, but I had to catch a ferry to get home to my daughter.

What was your favorite moment from the expo?

My favorite moment - that's a tough one. I did get to see Dana Linn Bailey and snap a few shots of her and meeting Rich Piana was very cool! That guy is a beast! Also just meeting everyone that I have seen over social media. It was nice to see and meet everyone in person.

Why do you think Dana Linn Bailey is so popular?

Her hard work and dedication! She seems so down to earth, humble and just a sweet person, but when she trains the beast comes out and she gives it her all! Her physique is amazing! She definitely motivates me.

Who or what would you like to see at the 2016 Expo?

I can't wait for the 2016 Expo. I'd love to meet Arnold Schwarzenegger, Dwayne Johnson and I hope Dana Linn Bailey comes back!

Find Ashley Joelle Wing on the web:

Facebook 

Instagram 

Twitter  

Vancouver Pro/Am & Expo - July 9/10 2016

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Monday, August 10, 2015

Vancouver Pro/Am & Expo 2015 - Leah Berti IFBB Pro

IFBB figure pro Leah Berti competed in the inaugural 2015 Vancouver Pro/Am & Expo show held in Vancouver, BC. Visit VancouverProShow for information on next year's show.
What's your age, height, competition weight and off-season weight?


I’m 31, 5'4" and compete around 122 to 124 lbs and off-season 132 to 135 lbs.


When was your first show?


I started off as a lightweight bodybuilder in 2004 in the Southern Alberta Bodybuilding show with the ABBA in Calgary. I won my lightweight class and the overall. I was a whopping 105 lbs my first show!


Where and when did you turn pro?


I turned pro in Laval, Quebec at the Canadian Natural National BodyBuilding Competition. One pro card was given for figure. I won the medium class and overall in 2011.


Do you remember what you were thinking and felt when you realized you had just turned pro?


It took me a bit to realize that they had just called my number. At first they said the number in French and then in English. I was shocked and it took me a few days to really believe I had achieved the ultimate goal and was a figure pro. I was honoured, proud and excited for the adventures to come.


Were you athletic growing up?


I was a pretty active kid. I played many sports growing up. Primarily I focused on volleyball, beach volleyball and track and field. I played club volleyball and being a bit vertically challenged, I was the team setter. I was on the university track and field team and competed in the long distance events outside and the 600, 800 and 1,000 meter indoor.


How did you get started lifting weights and training?


I developed a passion for weight training and cardiovascular training from a very young age. In junior high, I was a heavier set kid (I was Italian and I did love pasta!). I soon became very educated in nutrition and training. 

My father was a huge influence and a very fit police officer on the tactical team at the time. He would take me daily to the gym and we would both train and play beach volleyball league together. He truly inspired me to continue with my training and goals.


What are your goals as a competitor?


Being an IFBB pro has been an interesting and challenging journey. Going from the best in Canada to the rookie can really test your physical and emotional strengths. I am continually improving and have a few big goals for myself that I am working towards. This year my focus was on improving my shape; bringing up my shoulders; and shaping my legs. I also wanted a top-10 placing. I achieved all these goals and was very happy with my final show, the Vancouver Pro/Am & Expo show.


I still desire to be on the Arnold stage and the Olympia stage and will work towards these goals. I also would like to work on back width and glute improvements.


Above all, I always want to inspire others and enjoy the process!


Do you enjoy performing onstage?


I still get a bit nervous 30 minutes before stage and the initial lining up; however, once everything starts I love being on stage and showcasing my hard work.


If you could change one thing about your physique, what would it be?


I would have shorter muscle insertions and wider clavicles!


What's one thing about you that people would be surprised to know?


My jaw gets sore from chewing often and from a childhood jaw issue. I blend or food process a lot of my food!

What role does social media play for you as a figure competitor?


I would really like to attain a sponsor in the fitness industry and being active on social media, a good role model and representative is key.


Social media seems to be growing and growing. When I first started competing there was no Facebook, Instagram or Twitter. Now it seems that if you're not Facebooking, status updating or tweeting you are not helping your image, brand or marketing!


I do admit that I need to be more proactive on social media and one of my goals is to continue to create my brand and image.


Learn how to Cheat Clean with Quest Bars By Quest Nutrition



What do you do for your "real" job?


I am a proud police officer in downtown Calgary as my "day job." Currently I am a member of the mountain bike team patrolling the city core. Shift work is challenging with training and at times the job can be stressful, but I'm lucky to have a great Sergeant, partner and team that supports my goals.


Was the Vancouver show the first time you've ever been on stage with a fellow police officer?


No. There are surprisingly more law enforcement and emergency workers than you would think at the pro level. Might be the tenacious type A individuals that policing attracts; however, it is always nice to see a fellow shift-worker achieving huge goals with the strenuous physical, emotional and mental jobs we have. Many times I work 48-60 hour weeks, all hours of the night, then train, prep food and fly across the continent to compete!


Have you ever been on duty where someone recognized you as a competitor?


No, that has never happened to me. Mostly my two passions do not cross. I have had people comment on my appearance or level of conditioning.


What type of reaction do you get at work when other members find out they are working with a pro figure competitor?


I do not tend to draw attention to my professional IFBB status at work. Many would not even know I compete or the level of achievement I have attained. However, many of the fellow officers find it very interesting and often are inspired or seek advice on nutrition and training. I have helped numerous officers reach personal goals as well as try out a competition. We also have the world police and fire games that has bodybuilding and figure divisions every two years.


How do you make the mental transition from strapping on a gun and uniform, and dealing with potentially life-threatening situations; to putting on heels, wearing a bikini, applying makeup and transforming to a glamorous figure pro?


HAHA! I sometimes think the same thing myself! It truly is a big transition from one mental state to another. When I'm at work, my focus and drive is geared toward public safety. I put on the “police hat” so to speak and take on that role and persona. Once work is done, I don't take the stressors home with me. When it's show time, it's show time! I switch gears, take off the police hat, put on the tiara and take on that role. I love both and they keep me a well rounded, humble and diverse person!


Do you feel that all the extra weight training you do for figure gives you a physical edge as a police officer?


I think it definitely helps my conditioning for the job. Sometimes all the extra training, conditioning and cardio can make a 12-hour shift on the mountain bike quite challenging mentally and physically; however, I think the extra training keeps me prepared and secure that I can deal with any challenges that I might encounter on the job.


How long have you been on the force and what motivated you to become a police officer?


I have been a police officer for six years now. I attained my degree in business and in kinesiology. After University, I travelled and tried out the business world; however, I realized quickly that a desk and confinement was not for me. I was always passionate about helping others and having my father as a role model and police officer helped make my choice.


I still do personal training, nutrition programs and contest prep programs on the side (Mzfits); however, my primary job is a police officer.


Can we look forward to seeing you at the 2016 Vancouver Pro Show?


It is on the list. I had a great experience and look forward to 2016!

Find Leah Berti on the web:




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Monday, August 3, 2015

Vancouver Pro/Am & Expo 2015 - Flex Lewis and Bert Sims

At any event, star power pulls in the fans. Part of the star power at the 2015 Vancouver Pro/Am & Expo show included reigning 3X Olympia 212 Showdown Champion Flex Lewis.

But have you ever wondered what happens behind the scenes when a guest appears at an event? Do they just show up, make an appearance and leave, or is there more to it than that? Once they hit town, are they left to their own devices, or does someone take care of them?

When Flex Lewis came to Vancouver, nothing was left to chance. Tasked with making certain all went smoothly for Flex’s stay, one of BC’s top bodybuilders, Bert Sims.

What do you say when you find out that you have the opportunity to hang with one of the best in the world for the weekend?

In Bert's own words, “Uhm, HELL YES!”

How did you end up in your role working with Flex for the weekend?

I was a volunteer in general and when it came to be that Flex would need a liaison so to speak, I was chosen as the individual to do so because the match up in personalities is very similar and I do pride self on being very professional in this industry. The powers that be thought I would be a good representative for BC in that role.

What specifically did your position involve?

In a basic sense, make sure he was happy. Really, knowing his schedule, where he needs to be, organizing what was being sold at his booth and keeping track of those items while he got to visit with his fans. I found out what his meal plan was ahead of time and made sure he had proper food for the duration of the weekend. I also secured a spot that would allow him to train as he needed to do so with being eight weeks out at that time.

Is there one highlight from the experience that you can pick out?

Training with Flex on the Saturday of the show was priceless to say the least, and it wasn't a go through the motions type session. I like how he made me feel equal to him. He wanted me to get a good quality session just like I wanted him to have a kick-ass workout. Seeing the intensity and manner he takes himself to and how he approaches his training was very insightful.

Did you have the opportunity to show him around Vancouver and if so, any highlights you can share?

Unfortunately I was not able to show him around much of Vancouver with how busy the schedule was, although he and some of the other pros did get a taste of the infamous Davie Street in the middle of the night when they invaded Denny’s for a post-comp pancake feast after the finals Saturday evening.

You mentioned being "taken to school" in a Facebook post about your weekend experience with Flex. Anything you can share relating to knowledge or tips you picked up from spending time with him?

I was referring specifically to when I threw up during the session and came back for more. I admit, I was not used to the pace and the volume we were going at and it took its toll on me.

We talked a fair bit and although it isn't going to sound sexy or anything, I found out at that level he still has to pay attention to the basics like someone at my level does. What foods does his body react to best that will assist him in getting results wanted? He's still concerned about health and longevity and paying attention to that is important as well.

I would also say in the short time I spent with him, I could see and sense he holds himself to a very high standard, not just in what he wants to present on stage, but to his fans, his business and his legacy.

Anything else you would like to add to this?

I personally am beyond thankful for having the opportunity to have been in the position to show Flex around and be the go to guy for him over the Van Pro Am weekend. So many times we regular citizens wonder how someone of celebrity status is behind closed doors and I can tell you in my experience the guy is as solid and full of character as they come.
He certainly has my complete respect and I would enjoy being in the same role anytime.

In the bigger picture, that never would have been possible if not for the vision and drive of Michelle Krack IFBB Pro to make having a pro show in our beautiful city of Vancouver a reality. She was able to bring our bodybuilding community together on the grandest stage ever seen in BC, contest, expo and all. Now the door is open to what will hopefully be an annual event that grows and grows and we who were all part of this can help BC shine on the world stage now.

Find Flex Lewis on the web:

FlexLewis.net

Instagram

More about Bert Sims


Tell us about your athletic background and competition history.

I played a variety of sports all through my younger years, mainly baseball, basketball, wrestling, football and track. I ended up playing collegiate football for a few years as a punter and running back before eventually transitioning what I consider late (age 30) into bodybuilding. To date, my competition history is:

2008 Emerald Cup 13th light heavy
2008 Sandra Wickham Fall Classic 4th heavy
2010 Sandra Wickham Fall Classic 3rd light heavy
2012 Emerald Cup 9th heavy
2012 BCABBA Provincials 6th or 7th, second callout so blah! heavy
2014 Krack Classic Heavy winner and Overall winner
2015 BCABBA Provincials 3rd heavy
2015 Idaho Muscle Classic 3rd heavy

What’s your occupation?

For past 15 years, I've been a personal trainer, athletic performance coach and sports nutritionist.

What are your bodybuilding goals?

Create the best possible artistic rendition I'm able to with the genetics I've been blessed with, earn my pro card and some day compete at the Olympia.

What's next for you?

Right now I am about to enter off-season and focus on growing where I need to for next year when I compete again. I will do a national-level show next year, but I'm not dead set on which one. Having qualified in both Canada and the United States, I have some options. Right now, I would say I am leaning towards North Americans because timing wise that suits me best.

Anything you would like to add?

I have a degree in Sport Science and I believe this scientific base, coupled with the array of athletic experience both personally and from athletes/clients I have trained, gives me a well rounded experience to draw from when devising effective plans for those who I work with.

Find Bert Sims on the web:

DynamicPhysiques.com

Facebook: Bert Sims

Facebook: Dynamic Physiques

Instagram

More about Vancouver Pro/Am & Expo:

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VancouverProShow.com


Wednesday, July 15, 2015

Emerald Cup 2015 - Kristin Abhold

Kristin Abhold competed in Physique A placing 6th in a very solid division. Kristin is definitely someone to keep an eye on as she progresses through the ranks.

Let's start with your stats.

5' 2" tall; offseason weight, 123 lbs; stage weight, 113 lbs; age 26.


What's your athletic background?

I was a three-sport athlete in high school: cross country, basketball, and fastpitch. I also played soccer from 5-years-old to 16. After high school, I started doing distance running. I completed two full-marathons, two half-marathons, a Tough Mudder obstacle race, and various 10k and 5k relay races. After about two years of running, I needed something else, so I switched to bodybuilding.


How did you get started lifting weights and training?
I started weightlifting when I was 15. It was offered as a class at my high school. After that first semester I was hooked! I ended up taking weightlifting as a class every semester until I graduated and even earned some awards for lifting. I continued to lift to supplement my running and eventually switched over to competing.


How old were you when you did your first show?

I was 24.



What inspired you to start competing?

Honestly my first inspirations were Erin Stern, Nicole Wilkins and Dana Linn Bailey. I loved that all three were athletes to begin with and then started competing because they needed to fulfill that competitive drive. I felt the same way. I also had a lot of people start asking me if I was a competitor about a year before I actually decided to start. That was motivating too!


What do you think is the strongest part of your physique?

I think my shoulders and my biceps are the strongest parts of my physique. Coincidentally they are also a couple of my favorite training days.


What are your goals as a competitor?

Ultimately I want to earn my pro card as a physique competitor and then continue to do shows and travel to expos. I’ve been inspired by so many athletes and I would love the opportunity to inspire the next generation.


I'm sure you get noticed in public because of your physique. What is the strangest question someone has asked you or the strangest incident you've experienced?

I get approached or stared at constantly it seems - sometimes not in a positive way. A few weeks before Emerald Cup I was approached mid-workout by another gym member. It was an elderly man I've seen several times before. He came up and told me that he could tell that I had been training hard and that I looked fantastic. I replied with a "thank you" and a smile. That's when he told me that I was starting to look like a guy. I was a little thrown off by the compliment and then the insult right afterwards so I simply said "ok" and went back to my workout.


Do you enjoy performing onstage?

The stage is actually what terrifies me. If I could just do the training and the diet and stand in line with the other competitors without going on stage, I would love it. But, I also love pushing myself to face my fear and continue to compete. Each show I feel more confident and have more fun onstage.


What is your profession?

I am a personal trainer at Axiom Fitness in Boise, ID.


What's one thing about you that people would be surprised to find out?

I think the fact that I was a distance runner throws people off. I went from only weighing about 103 lbs as a runner to about 116 lbs as a figure competitor in about a year. I started hitting the weights more, doing less cardio and eating a ton. I feel so much more confident in myself now than I ever did as a runner.


Anything else we should know about you or that you would like to add?

I love to wear crazy bright colors and make my gym outfits match - and I'm talking down to my headband, socks and shoes, and shaker bottle. It's fun for me to get creative with my outfits since I have to wear a uniform to work. So, if you see a lot of my pictures on social media talking about matching, that's why!


Where can we see more of you?

Instagram: kleigh_abhold


Snapchat: kleigh8715

Visit Craig Productions for information on the Emerald Cup and other events.






Thursday, July 2, 2015

Emerald Cup 2015 - Tasha Whelan

Bikini and bodybuilding muscle may have grabbed the spotlight at the Emerald Cup, but on the second level of the Meydenbauer Center, powerlifting reigned supreme. From early morning and well into the evening, lifters competed for cash and trophies in the Emerald Cup Double Viking powerlifting meet. We had the good fortune to work with Tasha Whelan, one of the standout competitors at this event.  

Let's start with your stats.

I'm 30, 5'7 and 138 pounds.

What are your best competition lifts?

Squat 285 lbs; bench 180 lbs; deadlift 380 lbs.

What's your athletic background?

Growing up I played all sorts of sports, but mostly track (sprinter), and softball throughout my youth. I started boxing and hip hop dance in high school and continued that through college. I also played on a couple of recreational softball teams. From there on and off with running and then into lifting heavier weights. I started with bodybuilding type training. I've put on 30 pounds of lean mass in the past few years. From there, I started powerlifting.

How did you get started in powerlifting?

I got into powerlifting because it felt so darn good to be a strong woman in the gym. I've never really enjoyed being "average." I like to be a little different. I work in a really large health club and I'm one of just a few that do powerlifting. I definitely turn heads, and not because I'm super sexy, but because I've developed a lot of muscle, a whole lot of strength, and tend to out lift a lot of men in the gym. Can't really complain about that. I kind of enjoy it - a LOT!

I was competing in a women's crossfit meet and one of the coaches asked if I was a powerlifter. I said no, but I like to lift heavy. They showed me a flyer about a small local powerlifting meet and suggested I do it. I convinced my training partner to sign up with me, and from there, I completely fell in love and craved more strength. It feels AWESOME to be strong.

What are your goals as a competitor?

Currently I have no competitions in mind for bodybuilding, although it's definitely on my list in the next couple of years. I do plan on competing in the Washington strongman competition next year. Figured I'd see how it goes.

Right now, I'm training to compete in a powerlifting meet in August 2015 that is an Arnold Classic qualifier. As long as I hit my openers, I should qualify and compete next March at the Arnold. I'm super stoked about that.

Do you like showing off your muscles in public or do you prefer covering up?

As for showing off my muscles in public, I don't mind. I figure I've worked so hard on developing them, I deserve to show them off. Depending on my mood, I either enjoy it or get annoyed by it. People always glance or stare, which is fine for the most part. Plus most shirts don't fit my arms, so sleeveless works best.

What's your profession?

Personal trainer and performance coach at Pro Sports Club.

What's one thing about you that people would be surprised to know?

My phobia. It's a bit weird, but very real. Have you heard of koumpounophobia? Most likely not. It's the fear of buttons. Yup - BUTTONS. Gross. I can't wear them or touch them. I do not own one piece of clothing with those things on them. EEWWW. Weird much? I know. Makes me unique, so I'd like to think. HA.

Anything else we should know about you or that you would like to add?

Aside from lifting weights, I really enjoy the outdoors. I love to hike and be in nature. In fact, for my 30th birthday, I took off to Africa to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro. Talk about a real dirty thirty celebration.

Where can we see more of you?

Facebook athlete page

Facebook personal page

Check out Ideal Strength on Facebook or http://idealstrength.com for strength, fitness and health information; and videos and pictures.









Tuesday, June 23, 2015

Nissan Nohea - Hard Curves

Packing 128 pounds of muscle on her near 5-3 frame and measuring 34-25-38, fitness model and IFBB Pro Nissan Nohea sports more curves than an S. For the record, we're not messing with a small s here - that's capital S.

Mix in biceps, shapely quads and striking facial features and it's easy to see why she's in demand as a fitness model. 

What are your stats?

I'm 5'-2.5" tall, 113-lbs competition weight, 128-lbs off-season and age 26. 

What is your profession?

Hair stylist and model.

Were you athletic growing up?

Always! When I was seven, my mom put me in Tae Kwon Do where I earned my black belt.

What other sports have you done or are you currently doing?

Apart from Tae Kwon Do, I wrestled, danced, was a cheerleader up to college, ran track and played softball in high school. Basically if there was a sport, odds are I did it. Currently I am looking into getting back into martial arts and I weight train and hike.

How long have you been training?

I have been training since I was a kid. My dad had a weight area in the basement and my brother and I would mimic him. Once I was older, training was necessary in sports.

How did you get started lifting weights and training?

I learned how to weight train in 9th grade when I decided I wanted to play football. I know (lol). I had to train with the team and I loved it and felt powerful. However, I never went on to play that season as the upper-classmen scared me off.

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What inspired you to start competing?

I was recovering from a pretty bad car accident where I had back surgery and didn't know how I was going to build my strength to support my back. After two years of disability, I was tiny and I wasn't happy with where I was. I decided I was going to set a date for a show, train my ass off, and prove that I wouldn't suffer from my injuries and that I could be better than before.

When and where did you turn pro?

In March 2013. After winning the overall bikini title at my first show, I decided to go to the 2013 Jr Nationals three months later where I amazingly earned my IFBB Pro Card.

What are your goals related to competing?

Before it was to prove I would fully recover. Now, my goals and love for weightlifting have evolved. As I am crossing over into figure, I would love nothing more than to eventually make the crossover to women's physique.

What do you think is your best body part?

My best body part would have to be my legs. Everyone knows me for these stallions.

If you could change one thing about your physique, what would it be?

If I changed my physique, it wouldn't be me.

If you ruled the IFBB, what would you change? 

If I spoke my mind on this, it would be too controversial... ;)

Do you enjoy performing on stage?

It's what I know! I am so comfortable up there - always have been.

When people see your muscles, what is the biggest misconception they have about you?

Ha! That I never eat anything gluttonous or yummy. Oh, and that I only like guys who lift. I absolutely love food and a man who lifts is a plus, but his brain is more important to me.

In public, do you prefer showing off your muscles or covering up?

I'm in between. To me, it's normal to have muscles so I don't really think about it, but I love to wear short shorts and dresses as I hate covering my legs. It's uncomfortable.

Anything else we should know about you?

As much as I love competing and lifting, I am not a huge fan of the community. I am passionate about nutrition and being active, but it's not the topic of conversation among friends and me.

Where can we see more of you?




NissanNohea on Periscope

Also see Nissan on YouTube and Her Flex Appeal.