How did you get started with bodybuilding?
I have been in the fitness industry for quite some time. I started in the business running Fitness and Wellness Programs in large corporations like Manulife, Eaton Credit, Ford, and Sun Life. About 8-9 years ago I became a fan of Fitness Competitions. I watched a friend of mine compete and really got the itch to try it. However, the gymnastic elements scared me off. Then I saw an advertisement for a NEW category (at the time) Fitness Model.
Hmmm now that seemed a challenge but do-able so I began to train for my first competition in 2003. I have loved every bit of it and never looked back!
What gets you motivated?
For the most part I am self motivated when it comes to training. I have always liked athletics. At a young age I started in soccer and played right up to the College level. (OCAA) As well, I was a National Lifeguard. So the fact I got involved in Fitness and Bodybuilding I don’t think was a huge surprise to my friends and family. It was more of a transition from high school and college sports.
If I ever feel I am lacking some motivation or need a kick in the pants I will try something new, do a few sessions with another Fitness Trainer or pick up one of the leading Fitness/Bodybuilding magazines.
What workout routine has worked best for you?
I tend to switch up my workout routines about ever 8wks. I have done 5 days splits in the past. But currently and doing a three day split with 2 other circuit days.
- Monday: Chest/Shoulder/Triceps
- Tuesday: Lower body
- Wednesday: Bootcamp
- Thursday: Back/Biceps
- Friday: Cardio only
- Saturday: Circuit
- Sunday: Day off
If you have to pick only 3 exercises, what would they be and why?
If I could only pick 3 strength moves I would choose: Push ups, Pull ups, and Squats. That way I would hit my whole body. With all the gadgets out there right now, people forget sometimes about the basic moves that WORK!
What is your diet like?
My diet is 90% clean. When I first started competing like many others, I struggled getting balance after a very strict eating regiment. Infact TOO strict. I learn’t the hard way. I had some periods of rebounding (putting on weight fast post show) but I have learn’t from those rookie mistakes and really try to eat clean all year. I also have Hypothyroid so I really have to keep on top of it to keep fit so diet is really important to me.
Sample Diet:
- Meal 1:Egg whites omelet
- Meal 2: Protein shake with tbsp almond butter
- Meal 3: A large salad with a 4 oz.chicken breast
- Meal 4: ¼ cup of nuts or sometimes ¼ c oats with scoop of protein pre- weight workout
- Meal 5: 4 oz steak or Fish green veggies and or a salad
- Meal 6: 6-8 egg whites and sometimes I munch on celery, cucumbers in the evening…
If I am not preparing for a show or shoot I would have a carb up /cheat meal. (whatever you want to call it) every week or every other depending how I feel.
When trying to cut down do you prefer to use HIIT or just normal cardio?
I find HITT (interval training) works best to lean me out. So I tend to mostly do that style. However, I have done steady state cardio in the past with success but found I had to spend more time doing it. SO I really do encourage some Interval cardio sessions for better results and time management.
What is your supplementation like?
-
Omega 3’s - Multi-vitamin
- Calcium magnesium
- Vitamin C
- BCAA’s
Favorite Bodybuilders?
One of my favorite bodybuilders is Andre Rzazewski. I have trained with Andre in the past. And not only is he a top notch trainer but he is great bodybuilder that stays in shape year round. As for female favorites I am a big fan of classy ladies like Maggie Diubaldo. I am also a fan of Monica Brant. What great longevity she has had the sport and industry.
Favorite Quote?
Be the best version of yourself!
