How did you get started with bodybuilding?
Originally from Saginaw, Michigan, I grew up in a loving family and was always active throughout school, taking dance classes and playing sports. I took my fair share of ballet, jazz, tap, and gymnastic classes along with running cross country, track & field, basketball, and volleyball until my senior year in high school. Once graduating high school and on through college, staying active and fit lead to the local gym where I began working out and learning through hiring a personal trainer and nutritionist.
Once turning 20, I decided I needed a change.
I then packed my things and headed south. I moved to Fort Lauderdale, FL, where I applied for my real estate license and began my career working for developers in high-rise residential condominiums throughout the state of Florida. I moved from Fort Lauderdale, Jacksonville, Daytona Beach, and Naples, selling out one project and moving on to the next.
While selling real estate, I also modeled part time and continued my involvement in the fitness industry.
In 2008, I decided to make another big move and packed up yet again driving across country to California.
I applied for my real estate license once there, which is what I’ve known for so long now. But, since moving to California, I’ve been introduced to so many more opportunities in modeling and acting. I’m even more involved in the fitness industry, becoming certified in personal training and nutrition, taking part in all the big fitness expos throughout the country, and recently started competing in figure competitions professionally.
My first competition was the 2009 NPC Sacramento Show placing 1st Overall which qualified me for Nationals. Two weeks later, I competed in the 2009 NPC Nationals in Hollywood, FL, and placed 1st Overall again and was awarded my IFBB PRO Card.
I made my Pro Debut at the 2010 Phoenix Pro where I placed 1st overall and then went on 2 weeks later to compete at the 2010 Ms Figure International and was awarded 4th place out of the best competitors in the world! I will soon compete at the Ms Figure Olympia at the end of this year. My career in competing has only yet begun! My hard work has also landed some great opportunities with numerous editorials, covers, features, and pictorials in major fitness magazines, websites, and television which have all helped in establishing me as a role model and celebrity in the world of fitness.
As a certified personal trainer, nutritionist, and an IFBB PRO Figure Competitor with over 10 years of experience in the field, I am enthusiastic and dedicated to helping others learn and grow on how to get fit along with me.
Where does your motivation come from?
My motivation comes from wanting to live healthy and feeling great. I usually have a goal in mind that I work towards that keeps me focused along the way such as a competition or a photo shoot.
Just knowing that you have a deadline and want to look your absolute best and feel great about yourself is enough to keep you moving forward and towards your goal.
What workout routine has worked best for you?
I train 5 days a week regularly and up to 7 weeks prior to a competition. I stick to high reps with less weight and I work more on my lower body, than upper due to having more muscle mass in my upper body. I always complete my workout with 45 minutes of high intensity cardio.
Sample Routine:
Day 1: Legs/Cardio
- Squats 3 sets, 15-20 reps
- Lunges 3 sets, 15-20 each leg
- Leg Extensions 3 sets, 15-20 reps
- Lying Leg Curls 3 sets, 15-20 each
- 45 minutes cardio
Day 2: Abs/Cardio
- Hanging Knee Raises 3 sets, 20-25 reps
- Decline Abdominal Reach 3 sets, 20-25 reps
- Decline Bench Knee Raise 3 sets, 20-25 reps
- Seated Leg Tucks 3 sets, 20-25 reps
- 45 minutes cardio
Day 3: Shoulders/Cardio
- Seated Dumbbell Press 3 sets, 15-20 reps
- Dumbbell Front Raises 3 sets, 15-20 reps
- Low Pulley Lateral Raises 3 sets, 15-20 reps
- Reverse Pec Deck (Rear Delts) 3 sets, 15-20 reps
- 45 minutes cardio
Day 4: Abs, Cardio
- Hanging Knee Raises 3 sets, 20-25 reps
- Decline Abdominal Reach 3 sets, 20-25 reps
- Decline Bench Knee Raise 3 sets, 20-25 reps
- Seated Leg Tucks 3 sets, 20-25 reps
- 45 minutes cardio
Day 5: Legs, Cardio
- Squats (Wide Stance) 3 sets, 15-20 reps
- Leg Press 3 sets, 15-20 reps
- Lunges 3 sets, 15-20 each leg
- Glute Kick-backs 3 sets, 15-20 each leg
- 45 minutes cardio
Day 6 & 7: Cardio
- 45 minutes cardio each day
Mindi Smith With Per Bernal – Photoshoot
If you have to pick only 3 exercises, what would they be and why?
Any exercise that involves working the biceps, back, and calves. Those are the areas that build the easiest for me and always have the best definition so they’re fun to train.
What is your diet like?
Meals consist of 5 to 6 small meals evenly separated 3 hours apart throughout the day. Carbs are consumed early in the day and fat consumption is adjusted depending on my current conditioning.
- Meal 1: 4 Egg whites, ¼ Cup Oatmeal
- Meal 2: 4oz Lean Fish, 1 Cup Veggies
- Meal 3: 4oz Chicken, 1 Cup Veggies, Small Salad
- Meal 4: 5oz Lean Fish, Salad, 1 Cup Veggies, 10 Almonds
- Meal 5: 4oz Lean Fish, 1 Cup Veggies
- Meal 6: 4 Egg whites, 1 Cup Veggies
When trying to cut down do you prefer to use HIIT or just normal cardio?
When focusing on cutting down I will add HIIT to my normal cardio schedule and most of my cardio consists of running.
What is your supplementation like?
I may take Jetfuel Pyro if I need a pick-me-up before my workout, L-Carnitine, Glutamine, BCAA’s, Vitamin C, and a Multi.
My supplements may change from time to time depending upon my bodyfat % and goal.
Favorite Bodybuilders?
- Jay Cutler
- Monica Brant
Favorite Quote?
“Whether you think you can or think you can’t, you are right” – Henry Ford
Website: www.MindiSmith.com
Facebook: www.Facebook.com/MindiLSmith
Bodyspace: www.Bodyspace.com/MindiLSmith
