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What would you find to be the most challenging aspect of promoting the sport?
Changing the perception that the sport revolves around “steroid use”. As we have all seen, the issue of performance enhancing substances is one that affects many different sports. The public needs to be better educated on this subject.
Do you think there are ways of building the sport to become more recognized in T&T, if so, what are they?
I think that promoting not only the physical and aesthetic benefits of the sport.....
How can WEFITNESS Magazine and other health and fitness publications help build the sport?
By educating the public about the sport to help dispel the negative perceptions with which it is associated, and by showcasing athletes as positive role models.
What was it like going up on stage for the first time competing?
Definitely nerve-wracking, but exhilarating at the same time, knowing that I was displaying the results of hard work, discipline and dedication.
Do you feel pressured all the time to be in perfect shape?
Yes definitely - as a physique athlete, your body is constantly under scrutiny and people will always look for negative things to say. I personally find it hard to be confident about my off-season body, but it is unrealistic, and even unhealthy, to maintain competition shape all year round! Your body needs rest from the rigid dieting and intense workouts.
What do you like least about your body?
I wish I had a smaller waist and tighter glutes. And I wish I didn't have the propensity to retain so much water!
What do you like best about your body?
My back - I've worked hard on it over the years! And also my calves.
Do you think men are intimidated by a physically strong woman and why do you think that is?
Some men, yes. I think it is because the idea of a strong woman who can probably take care of herself challenges the traditional (old fashioned) way of thinking that the man is supposed to be the strong one to act as the protector.
Who is your biggest inspiration?
Fellow IFBB Figure Pro Nicole Wilkins, her list of achievements in the sport is staggering and yet she remains a humble, kind and generous person. I had the privilege of meeting her when she came to Trinidad in 2013.
random Myths & Facts
Myth: If I skip meals, I can lose weight.
Fact: Skipping meals may make you feel hungrier and lead you to eat more than you normally would at your next meal. In particular, studies show a link between skipping breakfast and obesity. People who skip breakfast tend to be heavier than people who eat a healthy breakfast. Try this light nutritious option: Oatmeal with low-fat milk, topped with fresh berries. Or eat a slice of whole-wheat toast with fruit spread. Source: (National institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases)
Fact: Yoga ISN'T a big calorie burner.
While doing yoga does improve flexibility and strength, it's not much of an aerobic activity, according to an ACE study: a 50-minute power yoga session burns 237 calories, versus the 500 to 600 calories you'd fry Spinning for that amount of time. Source: www.health.com
Myth: Fast foods are always an unhealthy choice. You should not eat them when dieting.
Fact: Many fast foods are unhealthy and may affect weight gain. However, if you do eat fast food, choose menu options with care. Both at home and away, choose healthy foods that are nutrient rich, low in calories, and small in portion size.
Source: (National institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases)
Fact: Ladies... Lifting weights WON'T bulk you up.
Even if you're using heavy dumbbells, you're not going to turn into a female Thor—really! "Women typically have less muscle tissue and produce lower levels of testosterone than men," says Matthews, meaning we're less physiologically prone to becoming brawny. Source: www.health.com
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