How Did You Get Started?

I have always had an interest in working out and lifting weights. I didn't become actively involved in training until I met the fabulous Maria Bellando at Porky's Gym in the Hammocks. One day during training she dared me to compete in her show, the NPC Southern States, in the Figure division. I happily accepted the challenge and just over a year later, here I am. Maria has been such a great friend, mentor and trainer, always pushing me to go the extra mile and believe in myself. I have found that I really enjoy the training and the discipline it takes to achieve the level of fitness required to compete in shows. (I'm such a discipline freak - I would've been great in the military!)

What Workout Plan Worked Best For You?

My workout plan looks something like this:

• Mon - 1 hour Cardio, 30 minutes Abs, Back & Biceps
• Tue - 1 hour Cardio, 30 minutes Abs, Legs
• Wed - 1 hour Cardio (I teach spinning at Gold's in South Miami)
• Thu - 1 hour Cardio, 30 minutes Abs, Shoulders & Triceps
• Fri - OFF or 30 minutes cardio
• Sat - 1 hour Cardio & Chest
• Sun - 1 hour Cardio

What Nutrition Plan Has Worked Best For You?

On-season I avoid bread, alcohol, sugar and even looking at anything that is not on my diet. Off-season I do indulge in the occasional happy hour & peanut butter & jelly sandwiches, but generally try to not stray too far from my eating habits so I don't end up paying for it dearly later down the road. On-season my diet consists of tuna, chicken, turkey breast, sirloin steak, egg whites, oatmeal, brown rice, sweet potatoes, grapefruit, Protein Shakes and salad. I'll treat myself to sugar-free popsicles as a dessert. I also chew a lot of gum, Dentyne Ice Artic Chill is my first choice.

What Supplements Have Given You The Greatest Gains?

L-Carnitine is great to work up a sweat for cardio and lifting and I am a faithful Glutamine user, I just feel so much better when I take it on a daily basis.

Why Do You Love Fitness?

I have seen my body go through some amazing changes during my training and I feel better all-around, mentally & physically. My mind is clearer, I'm more focused, I have more energy and I have to admit I do smirk just a bit inside when people I went to high school with don't recognize me and have to do a double-take. I put my body through years of abuse as a teenager and now through fitness I have been able to regain my inner strength and become a stronger person on the inside and out.