Paola Almerico is an IFBB Professional Figure athlete who turned pro in 2007 at the NPC Jr. USA’s. In her first year competing as a pro earned not only a qualification to the 2008 Figure Olympia, but also a bid to the prestigious Figure International. I was very excited to catch up with Paola following her exciting entry into the IFBB Figure world.
HardBody.com (HB) – What got you started into Figure?
Paola Almerico (PA)– It wasn’t until my mid 30s that I was introduced to the sport of Figure. I had been training with weights for many years but was not aware of the sport. I was so excited. At the time, I was 35 years old and had a 2 year old daughter. I knew it would be a challenge but I learned everything I could about the sport and trained very hard.
HB – What was your first show?
PA – My first show was the 2005 Gold Cup which was a very competitive show with over 40 competitors. I not only won my class but won the overall.
HB – That was two years ago, 2007 has been an amazing year for you, from winning your pro-card at the Jr USA’s, securing a qualification to the 2008 Olympia and now an invitation to the 2008 Figure International (Arnold Classic), what stands out to you as your most memorable moment?
PA – I had a lot of “special” moments in 2007 but getting my Pro-card by winning the Overall at the Jr. USA and qualifying for the 2008 Olympia in front of my friends and family would be the two most memorable moments.
HB – You are one of this sports “Fit Mommasâ€. I understand you are a very busy woman, mother, wife and IFBB Pro Athlete. Aside from those responsibilities and training for competition, how do you spend your spare time, if you have any?
PA – Reading and Gardening. I have a love affair with Orchids!! I also enjoy reading at night when the house is quiet. Right now I am enjoying “Eat, Love, Pray” by Elizabeth Gilbert. I love going to the Barnes & Noble, having a cup of tea and reading for hours. I also enjoy watching the cooking channel. One of my favorite shows is “Every Day Italian” with Giada.
HB – Not only do you have a busy schedule of your own, you’ve started helping other women prepare for their shows, right?
PA – Yes, I recently trained and prepared the competitor that won the overall at the 2007 Gold Cup. I really enjoy helping others excel in the sport and reach their dream.
HB – So just a month ago your name was released as one of the athletes invited to the prestigious Figure International / Arnold Classic. What were your expectations leading up to the Arnold Invitation Release?
PA –I was hoping for the best but preparing myself if I was not invited. My confidence was increased by fellow IFBB Pro friends who told me I had a very good chance of being invited based on my two overall titles and my qualification for the 2008 Olympia.
HB – How did you react when you heard the news?
PA – As you might imagine, I was extremely excited. I screamed so loudly that my daughter asked what was wrong and starting crying. I had to explain to Isabella that sometimes a person screams and cries because they’re happy. I told her I was going to the Arnold!! She looked at me confused and said “Who’s Arnold?”
HB – Have you been waiting to start your prep until the release of names? Or had you already started?
PA – My training has been more intense than ever even before I got the great news but I did enjoy the holidays if you know what I mean. I have put on some quality muscle since my last show but have to get much leaner in the next 8 weeks. I have a solid plan and am confident I will be my best.
HB – Looking back at your first competition and where you are now, did you ever dream you would go so far so fast?
PA – It’s been a amazing journey! The past 2 years have been extremely intense. When I did my 1st show, I did not think I would win the Overall. I also did not think I would get my Pro-card in 1 year and then compete in the Arnold and Olympia the very next year. So the answer is No!! I did not think it would happen so quickly. Many people which I have a lot of respect for saw my potential more than I did and their motivation and belief in me really helped me along the way.
HB – Is there anyone in particular you would like to thank who has been supportive or helped you achieve your goals?
PA – There’s a lot of people that have helped me. I have been very fortunate that I have attracted into my life the right person exactly when I needed them. I have made very special friends in this industry. Honestly, the special people and relationships I have developed since I started competing have been as important as anything else.
My family has been extremely supportive of my goals. My special thanks goes to my Mother-in-Law, “Francella Almerico” who has been taking care of my daughter when I travel in the most loving way possible. She’s been my Angel. My husband has given me unconditional support especially during those tough moments. Nelson has also been my trainer. Together we have learned the sport and how to maximize my physique and performance.
HB – Paola, thank you so much for taking the time for us to interview you. We wish you luck next year, I am sure this year will be filled with even more success than last.
PA – Thank you for the interview. I really appreciate it:)
