Carly Thornton

How Did You Get Started?

I started training at 21 years old. Before this I was overweight and unhappy with the way I looked which lead to very low self esteem. I was always the fun/bubbly joker out of all my friends and had lots of male friends but never anything more. When I used to go out partying with my friends, I drank alcohol before going out as I felt that if I was drunk then I wouldn't care what I looked like. I hated getting ready and looking in the mirror at my pudgy stomach, no nice clothes fit!

So it came to my 20's and I got so sick and tired of feeling bad about myself that I joined the gym where I used to go to school. It was very small but had enough equipment for me to do my bit without anyone seeing me! Gradually I began to loose the weight and felt more confident to join a larger chained fitness centre. I loved it; I loved exercise and the way it made me feel.

I could never go back to being that girl trying her hardest to shine with her personality, but never was seen. I despised myself when looking in the mirror and gorging on food and alcohol in the hope that this will in some way bring comfort. Of course, it just made everything worse.

I taught myself the importance of exercise diversity and clean eating. Within a few disciplined months, my body began to transform. I felt amazing! I felt fit physically and emotionally, I had a true sense of accomplishment and well being.

But, I wouldn't change a thing as it has made me appreciate things more. I'm extremely passionate about helping others not only to achieve, but to show that no matter what age or shape you are in, YOU can change for the better.

Let's live this life the way we really want too, no more wishing but a lot more doing! I can do it! You can do it! Believe...motivate...create that better you!

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If you want your fitness to be off the chain, then do it!

What Workout Plan Worked Best For You?

• Sumo Squat: 1 set of 15-20 reps
• Lunges: 1 set across gym and back
• Close Leg Press: 1 set of 20-25 reps
• Deadlifts: 1 set of 20 reps

Day 2: Cardio Only

• Power Walk: 45 minutes

Or

• HIIT: 20 minutes

Day 3: Shoulders

• Standing Dumbbell Press: 1 set of 8-10 reps
• Seated Dumbbell Side Raises: 1 set of 12-15 reps
• Bent Over Cable Raises: 1 set of 15 reps
• Front Delt Raise: 1 set of 15 reps

Day 4: Off

Day 5 Back/Arms

• Wide Grip Pull-Ups: 1 set of 8-10 reps
• T-Bar Row: 1 set of 10-12 reps
• Hyper Extension: 1 set of 15-20 reps
• Dumbbell Biceps Curls: 1 set of 15-20 reps
• Triceps Rope Pulleys: 1 set of 15-20 reps

Day 6: Cardio Only

• Sprints

Day 7: Off

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Strap in, it's gonna' be a wild ride.

What Nutrition Plan Has Worked Best For You?

I work very well with structure and consistency.

Meal 1:

• 60g oats
• 4 egg whites
• 1 tbsp flaxseed

Meal 2:

• 1 scoop whey protein
• 1 tbsp Udo's oil
• 1 apple

Meal 3:

• 100g turkey meatloaf
• 150g sweet potato
• 1 tbsp Udo's oil

Meal 4:

• 120g salmon
• Large serving veggies

Meal 5:

• Veggie Omelet:
  6 egg whites
  1 cup veggies

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You think a body like this doesn't have an equally lean diet?

What Supplements Have Given You The Greatest Gains?

Consistency is the key. I supplement daily with whey, glutamine, BCAAs, vitamin C and spirulina.

Morning:

• Vitamin C: 1000mg

Morning, Pre Workout, Post Workout, & Evening:

• Glutamine: 5g

Morning, Post Workout, & Evening:

• Spirulina Powder: 1/2 tsp

Pre & Post Workout:

• BCAA: 5g

Why Do You Love Fitness?

Bodybuilding is an art, I find it extremely fascinating how we as humans can totally change the way we look through clean eating, dietary changes and exercise. For me it's a way of life and I'm so honored to have the opportunity to share my passion and love for fitness to others and inspire them to seek their ultimate goals

What Motivates You To Follow A Healthy Lifestyle?

Everything motivates me! I wake up feeling energized and ready for the day! I get totally hyped about each workout and the changes I will make. I not only look healthy on the outside but the inside too and I feel this really shines through!

What Made You Want To Achieve Your Goals?

I love making new goals, short and long term, as this keeps the motivation high and the fire burning! I love structure, I love change and I thrive on seeing others do the same!

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Once this shoe is tied, it's on to the next challenge!

What Are Your Future Bodybuilding Plans?

I would love to grace the stage again at some point, but I also have the WWE try outs this November. I want to continue with other aspects of fitness, within magazines, articles to others and fill them with knowledge, to become the person they long to be. I want people to know me as someone who is an ambassador to the sport, I have such a deep love and motivation for all aspects and I want to share it with the world.

What One Tip Would You Give Other Fitness Competitors?

Stay focused on you, if you walk on stage looking the best you have ever looked, then no matter what you're placing is, you are a winner!

Who Are Your Favorite Fitness Competitors/Bodybuilders?

• Rob Riches
• Lee Priest
• JNL
• Mindi Smith

What Features Do You Use On Bodybuilding.com?

I use BodySpace to keep connected and to share my path. I buy supplements from the Store and read all training and nutrition articles on the SuperSite.

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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