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:

Facebook

VancouverProShow.com

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.

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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

Facebook: www.facebook.com/abholdphysique

Snapchat: kleigh8715

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

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.

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?

Instagram

Twitter

Facebook

NissanNohea on Periscope

Also see Nissan on YouTube and Her Flex Appeal.

Emerald Cup 2015 - Holland Matheson, Figure

Figure competitor Holland captured second-place honors in the "D" class at the 2015 Emerald Cup. On stage, she brings a great package to the game, from her smile, to her cover-model good looks, to the confidence she exudes when hitting her poses. Definitely another Emerald Cup competitor you'll want to follow.

How old are you?

I'm 24-years-old.

What is your height, your competition weight and off-season weight?

I'm a little over 5'4", my competition weight is around 130 pounds and my off-season weight is around 135 pounds.

Were you athletic growing up?

I was very athletic growing up. I was a competitive elite gymnast for 17 years. The last four were spent with the NCAA.

How did you get started lifting weights and training?

Lifting weights was crucial for my performance in my gymnastics career. I've had a solid weight training foundation ever since I was eight-years-old!

How old were you when you did your first show?

I was 23.

What inspired you to start competing?

I was doing a lot of endurance races and events and never felt satisfied. Once my coworker showed me her stage photos from past competitions, I knew I was ready to take my athletic career to the next level.

What are your goals as a competitor?

To win my pro card and become one of the top athletes at the IFBB level.

Do you enjoy performing onstage?

It's my favorite part of this sport! I have such a euphoric feeling when I'm on stage.


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How does your physique/lifestyle affect how people interact with you?

This lifestyle has blessed me with the opportunity to meet so many wonderfully talented people. The world of bodybuilding is one of support and camaraderie. I'm grateful to be influenced and motivated by such strong people every day!

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

I would like for my shoulders to improve and mature as I grow into this sport.

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

My quads have really developed over the years and I love to train them too!

What is your profession?

I'm a certified personal trainer and nutritionist.

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

I love any and all peanut butter-chocolate desserts!

Where can we see more of you?

Follow me on Instagram.

See Wendy Lindquist interview with Holland on YouTube. 

5 Reasons Every Fitness Models Needs An Alias

The dilemma: Use your real name when modeling or create an alias?

Let's start with the premise that whatever your direction, exercise consistency. Remember: You're creating a product or brand, said product being you the model. If fans and industry people can't find that product on the store shelves, your marketing department gets failing grades.

If you do one shoot with your real name, the next with an alias and the following shoot with yet another alias, you're confusing the matter. Make your choice and be consistent.

Why do you need to use an alias name?

1. Designer Name

Like Superman villain Mister Mxyzptlk, what happens if you have a name that is difficult to spell and difficult to pronounce; or at the other end of the scale, a too common name lost in a sea of similar names?

Sometimes it's just easier to design a name that works, that's unique and that stands out.

2. Privacy

As a fitness model, your product is your physique. In this business, a sexy hardbody sells. Showing off that hardbody might entail minimal clothing.

You may be fine with that image, but there will always be people far less accepting of this than you are. An alias in the model world gives you an extra layer of privacy in the real world.  

3. The Future

When you're 21, the future might seem, well, somewhere off in the future. It's not of immediate concern.

The person you are today might be quite different from the person you'll become five years from now. Right now, it's great to be in the spotlight, but what happens if you need anonymity in the future?

One of the major reasons why the web is a superior marketing tool versus print is that once you publish something on the web, it keeps working to bring you exposure long after a print piece meets its end in the recycle bin. Excellent when you want the exposure, but should you ever decide to change directions, your published web material awaits discovery by anyone curious enough to Google your name. Again, a model alias provides you with that extra security should you decide to take a different direction with your life.

4. The Past

Everyone has past transgressions, whether small or large.  

Maybe you don't want people to know about your past. Or perhaps you don't want people to know about someone you associated with in your past. Again, a model alias can provide a layer of security between you and something in the past better left forgotten.

5. Job And Career

Not every work environment is welcoming to a lean, muscular, bikini-clad model and competitor. If a Google search connects model you with work you and puts your livelihood at risk, perhaps it's time to consider a name change.  

Making The Change

If you're unsure, start by using your first name only as your model alias. Better to err on the side of caution than start with your real name and then attempt to undo what's been done. Keep in mind that once your name is out there, it's there for the world to see.  

If you compete, you can create a model alias and compete under that name. From a marketing standpoint, this is the ideal strategy as it's going to give you maximum exposure and name recognition for your brand. Again, this speaks to consistency.

If you're going to create a model alias, you need to put some thought into your name. Look at it from the perspective of naming a new product. You want something easy to remember and easy to pronounce. Although Buff Hottie might work for a nickname, it's likely not a good choice for a model name. Avoid cutesy sounding names.

Once you've selected potential candidates, the next step is research. Google your name and make certain someone else hasn't already made it uber popular. As important, make sure the corresponding URL is available so that you can purchase the domain name to go with your model alias.

There you have it - a new name and product waiting for you to take it to market.

Check out the Best Protein Shake Recipes at Bodybuilding.com

Fitness Model +Fawnia Mondey 

Isadora Melo Joins ANS Performance Team

Competing in the 2015 BC Championships, bikini competitor Isadora Melo walked away with first-place honors in the Bikini C division. Next stop - 2015 Canadian Nationals.

Following on the heels of her bikini win, a win off stage as ANS Performance announced +Isadora Melo as the newest member of their team.

We had the opportunity to shoot with Isadora day of show. One of the shots even made it into her new ANS Performance ad.

See Isadora on Facebook.

Visit the ANS Performance website.