How Did You Get Started?

I was always an athlete as a young girl. I competed in swimming, springboard diving, and gymnastics. I was a cheerleader, rode horses, and danced. So, as you can see, I enjoy being active and fit.

One day I caught a glimpse of Cory Everson on the cover of a bodybuilding magazine, and that was all she wrote! I couldn't get enough.

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Holly Nicholson.

I loved the look of the strong, lean, muscular lines and found so much beauty and sensuality in it. Muscle is beautiful no matter where you find it - animals, humans, art... Cory was so inspiring to me. She was strong, yet still feminine. That was way back in 1988, and I've been addicted to bodybuilding ever since!

What Workout Plan Worked Best For You?

I believe that every workout plan I have tried, whether I used it for a short time or a long time worked for me. I believe in trying most anything as far as exercise goes, because you never know what will really work for you.

All within reason, of course. I would never attempt something that is bio mechanically unsound, or obviously dangerous. It's so important to constantly gain all the knowledge you can about this sport.

I learn something almost everyday, even after 20 years of training.

Right now the workout that suits me best ( for my age, recuperative power, and work schedule ) is 2 days on, 1 day off, 3 days on, 1 day off.

Here is a sample of my training schedule:

Day 1: chest/biceps
Day 2: back/tris Day 3: quads/abs
Day 4: rest
Day 5: shoulders, hamstrings, calves
Day 6: Rest
Day 7: REPEAT the previous 6 days!!

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Holly Nicholson.

Note: I use the elliptical trainer for the majority of my cardio, but also walk outside a lot at a brisk pace. The fresh air seems to make it more enjoyable! I also make sure that I stretch whatever body part I am training between every set.

At the end of each workout session, I spend 15-20 minutes stretching the whole body. I am plagued with joint pain and stiffness sometimes since I am older.

It definitely helps!

What Nutrition Plan Has Worked Best For You?

Well, not to be redundant, but I would have to answer this the same way I answered the previous question... all of the nutritional plans I have tried have done something good for me in some way or another.

I learn more and more about MY body, MY metabolism, and how I respond to dieting or gaining with each and every passing season. I get better and better at it, thank goodness!

Arm yourself with information in the war against poor dietary habits, crazy diet plans, and false advertising. I read everything I can get my hands on about nutrition, cooking, longevity and supplementation.

What Supplements Have Given You The Greatest Gains?

Champion Nutritions Whey Stack protein, its yummy and mixes very well. My favorite is cookies and cream!

I also use Universals Amino 3000 tabs pre-workout, and drink SuperCharger NO mixed with water and a scoop of Design 8 fat burner.

I take TONS of vitamins and mineral type supplements 3 times a day.

Milk thistle, Mezotrace Minerals C, E, B-complex, Multi-vitamin, dandelion root, alpha lipoic acid, glucosamine/chondroitin joint support, and EFA's.

I know it seems like a lot, but I swear by my vitamin regimen, and I believe it keeps me from getting sick when my body is tired from training.

Why do you love Bodybuilding?

That's easy!! To put it short... it makes me strong, inside and out. Bodybuilding has given me confidence, taught me about commitment and dedication, engrained the philosophy of hard work and perseverance in my soul and opened many, many doors for me.

I wish more women in this world had the same joy in their lives as I have found through bodybuilding, strength and fitness.

I love sharing my knowledge with others, and I'm always honored when someone compliments me or asks for my help.

What Are Your Future Bodybuilding Plans?

Currently, I am training and dieting in preparation for the 2008 Arnold Amateur Classic. I competed in the inaugural show (2007) and placed 2nd in the middleweight class.

They've added a new element to the show this year... IFBB international amateurs are also eligible to put in an application to compete. Last years show was amazing, and there were some great athletes competing.

I'm sure this year will bring an even higher level of quality to the stage. I'm really looking forward to it! I plan on bringing my best shape and conditioning ever to the event, no doubt about it.

After that, I will focus on probably the Masters Nationals and maybe the USA's, both held in July. The USA's are right here in my home town of Vegas, so I almost HAVE to do that show!

At the ripe old age of 47, (lol) I have a day every once in a while where I think I might like to hang up my posing suit for good, just relax and take life as it comes, but the reality of it is, I still have a fire in my heart to improve my physique each and every year.

Until that fire is darkened down I will get up every morning and do my cardio, hit the gym to train a body part or two every afternoon, and try to keep a handle on my nutritional intake.

After all, you got to have a reason to get up in the morning!!

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Holly Nicholson.

I have had a personal website for the last couple of years, and recently the entire site has been revamped and updated, thanks to my new webmaster.

I'd love to have input on the new content from any of the Bodybuilding.com readers... please take a look at www.hollynicholson.net .

I'd appreciate your response!

What One Tip Would You Give Other Bodybuilders?

Gain as much knowledge as you possibly can! Devour the books, magazine article, online info, etc.

Never stop learning, because I can guarantee you this... new concepts, products and exercise information are emerging every day! Dont miss any of it.

Okay: can I give two tips? LOL Number 1: There is no substitute for good clean food, or hard work. Number 2: Be true to yourself and keep your feet firmly planted on the ground. That's where the results come from!

Who Are Your Favorite Bodybuilders?

Cory Everson was my first favorite. Since then, I've become a huge admirer of Diana Dennis, Juliet Bergman, and Valentina Chepiga.

I prefer a feminine look with mature musculature, as opposed to big, thick and ripped. I also think that they are all good ambassadors for our sport, as well as being superb athletes.

Diana Dennis was the epitome of grace, elegance and artistic beauty when she posed. I enjoy watching Valentina for the same reason.

More Bodybuilder Profiles:

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

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