How did you get started with bodybuilding?
Well, before I got into doing figure competitions I was doing bikini competitions Nationally that took me from Vancouver to Montreal. I developed a strong love of the iron because it was how I managed to change my body around from years of neglect from bad eating habits and little active life! I did my first Novice Figure show in 04, dieted and trained myself..even learned how to do quarter turns by buying a Ms. Olympia video! lol Somehow as green as I was, I managed to place 5th! At that point I really caught the bug and enjoyed working towards a goal! I later competed and received my Pro Card with the WNSO (World Natural Sports Organization) as a Fitness and Bikini Model and I am now competing with the WBFF (World Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation) and Organization founded by bodybuilding legend Paul Dillett. My next show will be The WBFF BC Championships April 17th in Vancouver!! I will be competing in both the Fitness Diva and Bikini Diva Categories and am looking to win my Pro Card with them!!
Where does your motivation come from?
My motivation comes from always doing better than my last. I am always in competition with myself, to train my butt off and be the best I can be. I pour blood sweat and tears into my training so I know I can walk on stage and be confident that I’ve done my best!
What is your training philosophy?
My training philosophy is simple “Train when your competition is resting!”
If you have to pick only 3 exercises, what would they be and why?
- Squats: For all around leg development
- Seated Rows: Because I love how much weight I can do
- Arnold Presses: For a great shoulder burn!
When trying to cut down do you prefer to use HIIT or just normal cardio?
I always mix up my cardio between HIIT and normal cardio, I think it’s best to keep the body guessing regardless! My body requires me to be really strict with cardio so I usually hit it up twice a day around the 6 week mark!
What is your philosophy on nutrition?
Nutrition plays a big part, and you have to be strict with it. I never want to sacrifice my time in the gym with a bite of a donut!! lol
What are your favorite meals and foods?
I really actually enjoy chicken and asparagus, and sweet potatoes so now after years of competing I actually enjoy my diet food!! lol
Favorite cheat food?
Oh jeez do I have to pick? I love my Mom’s perogies (Ukrainian food that’s like a potato dumpling) pizza, gelato, chocolate, nachos…..I could go on, but I’ll stop! :)
What supplements do you use that give you great results?
I use Bio-X Performance Nutrition for my supplements, their Power Whey Isolate is delicious!! I also make sure I use a multi-vitamin, glutamine and creatine from them too! Working out and training for a show is really taxing on the body so it’s best to give it a full spectrum of support from proper supplementation.
Favourite Bodybuilders?
Arnold (of course) and I really think Phil Heath is a great guy, met him randomly back in Vegas at the Olympia and he was very polite and kind to his fans! Always a great thing to see! Ronnie Coleman is another great ambassador for the sport, got to chat with him while he was in my hometown visiting a supplement store and by chance was training legs at my gym!!
Favorite Quote?
“Strength does not come from winning. Your struggles develop your strengths. When you go through hardships and decide not to surrender, that is strength.”
Bodyspace: http://bodyspace.bodybuilding.com/mindyk/
