Ali Sonoma will participate in the first Arnold Bikini Division.
San Diego’s Ali Sonoma is a perfect example of what the new bikini division brings to the table. Striking good looks, toned physique but not overly muscular. She works out, eats right and has aspirations of making a difference in the world of fitness. I had a chance to chat with Ali as she heads into her first competition. What made this former UFC ring girl enter the Arnold Bikini competition? Find out the answers to this as well as what it’s like dating one of the top UFC fighters below.
You currently live in Cali but where did you grow up?
St. Louis, MO
How many NPC competitions have you competed in?
The Arnold Classic next week will be my very first one! I’m very excited!
What made you decide to compete in the Arnold Bikini Competition?
I was at Mr. Olympia last year and was really amazed at how the competitors looked. I saw the figure women on stage and was just in awe. I said to myself, I would love to do that someday, it would be such a rewarding self challenge to get your body at it’s best. So I went for it. I found a great trainer, (Kim Oddo), and he told me about the new bikini division. I started training immediately.
What are your competitions goals this year?
I would love to get my pro card, become a spokemodel for a few supplement /nutrition companies and continue to look and feel my best.
You mentioned you enlisted the help of Kim Oddo with your diet/nutrition, how has that experience so far?
I couldn’t have done it without Kim! I wouldn’t have a clue where to begin without a professional, especially one of the best in the business. He laid out everything-my diet, supplements, times I should eat, portion control, lifting schedule, etc.
I read somewhere that you like to fish and shoot guns, is that true?
Ha ha, sure is! I’m from Missouri so I’m naturally a country girl at heart and I’m not afraid to get a little dirty.
Some people may not know but you were a ring girl for the UFC. What was that experience like?
It was a great experience for me. I was with them for a year and traveled to many places. I am still a huge fan of the fights and always will be.
Do you get nervous thinking about the competition or is it a walk in the park for you now?
I might be a little nervous considering it’s my first one, but I think I’ll be more excited than anything.
Do you weight train?
Yes.
What a bikini competitor that works out? Get out. What type of training do you follow?
I weight train just about everyday. I alternate upper and lower body. I do light-med weight, high reps, at high intensity. I love lifting, so much more than cardio! 
Do you work out solo or with a training partner?
I work out solo and I take it very seriously. I go to the gym to train, sweat, and work hard. I don’t like any distractions.
How is it dating a UFC fighter (Ali is dating UFC Fighter Diego Sanchez)… Does he help motivate you in the gym or can be a distraction while preparing for your own show?
Diego Sanchez is not just a UFC fighter, he’s so much more. He’s my very best friend and I have learned so much from him since being with him. He’s very knowledgeable in nutrition, training, diet, meditation, recovery, supplements, I could go on and on. I started eating all organic food because of him, and started taking up better habits like cutting aspartame, anything artificial, anything processed, etc. It’s a plus being with him because he helps to train and motivate me-yesterday we did sprints until our legs were about to fall off. ha ha! He believes in me and I in him. I am always the loudest, craziest one at his fights and he’ll be right there watching me on stage as my number 1 fan.
A number of women have taken up MMA classes are you one of them or leave that to Diego?
I love kickboxing and would love to someday take up Muy Thai and Jui-Jitzsu. I love to feel strong.
What do you plan on eating after the competition – birthday cake? (Ali’s Birthday falls on the Arnold Classic Weekend)
Ha ha, YES! Chocolate and some red wine! It’s been so long!
What advice do you have for women out there thinking of doing their first competition?
Get a great trainer! You get what you pay for.
If people want to find out more info about you where should they go?
My myspace page is the best way to contact me www.myspace.com/alisonoma
Any one you want to thank or give a shout out to?
First and foremost, I want to thank God for blessing me in so many ways-all the glory goes to him, the Creator. I would also like to thank Kim Oddo, my family, fans and the love of my life Diego.
Thanks Ali and best of luck in Columbus.
Thank you.
The Arnold Bikini competition will take place in Columbus, Ohio on Thurday, March 6th. Competition starts at 7pm.
