Alissa Carpio

How Did You Get Started?

I began training in August 1999 while on Army active duty in South Korea. A fellow soldier who was into bodybuilding showed me how to train on a split schedule for mass gaining. As soon as I started reading bodybuilding magazines and seeing the photos of the fitness competitors, I knew it was something I wanted to do.

What Workout Plan Worked Best For You?

After four years of training, I’m constantly finding better ways to train and am getting to know my body better. This past off-season has been my most successful. I’ve implemented Dr. Joe Klemczewski’s split cycle training program that alternates heavy, power-lifting movements every 7-14 days with lighter, higher intensity workouts in between. It’s a 3-day split of Back/Biceps, Legs, and Chest/Shoulders/Triceps.

What Nutrition Plan Has Worked Best For You?

I eat pretty clean in my off-season with the weekends reserved for light to moderate cheats. On season, I stick strictly to my diet. I make sure to get at least 1g of protein per pound of bodyweight, a good amount of unsaturated fats, and moderate carbohydrates in the form of fresh green vegetables and low-glycemic complex carbohydrates. I also cycle my carbs every 3-4 days while dieting for a show.

What Supplements Have Given You The Greatest Gains?

My year-round staples are a Multi-Vitamin/Mineral, Creatine, and Glutamine. Before a show I add a liquid Glucosamine complex and Calcium to keep my joints and bones healthy through the rigors of fitness routine practice and heavy training sessions. I also add Vitamin C to keep my immune system strong. This year I added MHP Secretagogue-One and it’s really made a difference in my energy levels and how well I sleep at night, which is a vital component of contest preparation.

Why Do You Love Fitness?

I love to train! Even if I didn’t compete, I love the feeling I get during and after a really intense, heavy training session. I also love training for my fitness routines – it’s fun, challenging, and a great cardio workout. The adrenaline rush of being on stage and the opportunity to perform in front of the crowd are priceless moments that are worth the months and years of prep that it takes to get there.

What Are Your Future Bodybuilding Plans?

I will round out 2004 with two more shows – the NPC East Coast Tournament of Champions Figure on June 5 and the NPC BodyRock/Monica Brant Fitness on July 10. I then plan on taking an extended off-season to revamp my routine and physique for 2-3 national shows next year. I would love to earn my IFBB Pro Fitness card by 2006.

What One Tip Would You Give Other Fitness Competitors?

Believe in yourself, have patience and persistence, and remain dedicated to your goals. If you have these things, the resources and means to get there will come one way or the other. If you’ve ever even thought about competing in fitness, start training now and make your dreams a reality!

Who Are Your Favorite Fitness Competitors/Bodybuilders?

I have so many, but a few of my favorites are Lisa Schaerer, Beth Horn, Elizabeth Maurice, Kirsten Nicewarner, and Klaudia Kinska.

More Profiles:

:: Current Fitness Competitor Of The Week.
:: Other Previous Fitness Competitors Of The Week.
:: Amateur Bodybuilder Of The Week.
:: Over 40 Bodybuilder Of The Week.
:: Teen Bodybuilder Of The Week.

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