IFBB Bikini Pro Alea Suarez is one to watch this weekend in Pittsburgh. She shares a bit more about herself and what got her into competing. The proud mother of three, YES THREE CHILDREN, will look to improve upon her sixth place finish at the Muscle Contest Pro.
Born in: San Diego, CA
Currently reside in: Austin, TX
Many people comment that you have a beautiful, exotic look to you…what’s your heritage?
I guess exotic is a good way to describe my diverse ethnic “melting pot”. In the reader’s digest version, I am a combination of Cherokee & Apache native American, Mexican, German, English, a sprinkle of French and topped with Castillian Spanish! The epitome of the American melting pot!
Occupation?
Owner/founder of TIGON Fitness, (Personal training, body transformation plans, and boot camps), and I work as a group fitness instructor for Lifetime Fitness.
How did you get into competing?
I had lost a good friend, Cassandra, a couple years ago to a pulmonary embolism. It was very sudden and she was a young mother leaving two children behind. I introduced her to fitness and had trained her and helped her lose 40 lbs. I had always expressed my desire to compete and Casandra always supported me and told me to go for it. With her passing, I realized that life is to short not to pursue my dreams.
How of shows you’ve competed in?
Pittsburgh will be my fifth show (3 NPC and my second pro show)
What were your thoughts after your first pro bikini show?
I was glad to get the first one under my belt. It had some amazing competitors and I feel blessed to have placed in the top 6. The first show gave me some feedback to work with and areas of opportunity I can improve on.
Goal for this weekend’s PA show?
It is a contest so I go into every competition for the win! I work hard to bring my best to each show but I truly enjoy the process and competing. It is a lot of fun to be part of the IFBB Pro Bikini circuit! I have made many friends and the camaraderie has been a blessing.
What type of training do you follow?
I do a combination of weight & body weight only training, plyometrics, and alot of cardio. I have recently put running into my regime thanks to Adela. (Hated it at first but I’m now like Forest Gump! I can run for miles and liking it!)
Any supplements that are on your “must have” list?
L-Glutamine, Carnitine, (when not eating red meat), Udos (cold-pressed fish oil), and a good nutraceutical.
Do you have a trainer or workout with anyone?
I just recently joined Adela Garcia’s O.F.F. Challenge Team based here in Austin, TX. Adela has been instrumental in my recent training and nutritional direction.
What’s the biggest misconception out there about a bikini competitor such as yourself?
The biggest misconception that seems to be consistent everywhere I go is that a bikini competitor does not have to train or condition in order to compete. Training and nutrition is different between bodybuilding, figure, fitness and bikini yet all have specific looks that need to be dialed in for competition. Achieving that specific look is a science that requires diligence, self-discipline, time in the gym, and commitment. I work hard, train hard, and take my competitions very seriously! We’re talking about the the inaugural Bikini Olympia!
Good luck!
Thanks!
Alea will take the stage tomorrow at the Pittsburgh Pro prejudging. For ticket information visit: www.garyudit.com
