Hardbody News: Female Sports, Health and Fitness

Oksana Grishina’s Hardbody Recap of the Fitness International

March 6, 2013 by Hardbody Staff 1 Comment

Oksana Grishina stops by to share share her thoughts on the 2013 Fitness International. She’s had one of the most entertaining routines of the Arnold Classic weekend and finished in the runner-up position. It’s been a long, hard fought road for Oksana to reach the top of the Fitness ranks and while many of her fans might be calling foul over her placing, she’s nothing but grateful.

Oksana Grishina After the Arnold!
View photos of Oksana’s routine here.

Hi fans and friends!!!

This was an amazing weekend for me! I promised to all of you that I would do my best, and I did just that. I did what I wanted to do. I did what I had to do. I made a promise to myself that I would nail my performance, that I would fully master this new character, which was so emotionally hard, and that I would complete all the elements of my routine strongly and cleanly. All of the months of hard work really paid off for my very important two minutes on stage. This is what makes me happy, and a second place finish at the Arnold Classic is icing on the cake! It’s so great when you have a goal, work so hard, and everything goes as planned!

This performance was particularly hard for me. Throughout my prep, this character took a long time to figure out. On the day of the performance, I needed several hours to prepare and get into character. Backstage, when I had finished my makeup, I knew I was close. When I got on stage, I felt it fully. After the performance, I was emotionally drained and crying back stage. But, by this, I knew I had really brought the character to life.

Oksana Grishina as The Joker

I felt like I did my best with my body, as well, but there are still things that I don’t quite like, and need to improve. I still need to work on my posing, and I can work to bring a physique that is a bit softer to the stage. Of course, it is important to always be changing and growing, so I welcome having improvements to make and new goals to set. I’m working on them already.

I am so happy for Tanji Johnson! It was great to see her won ! Congratulations Champ!!! She is a leader and role model in Fitness, and no one is a more deserving Arnold Classic champion. It was amazing to see all my sisters in Fitness doing their best. Congratulations to every one of them! We are all fighters inside, and we are heroes, too. Just look at Fiona Harris. You may have noticed her breathing particularly hard during her routine. Well, the girl did all of that with a broken rib! This is what I call a hero! And, of course, we are all close friends, and support each other, too. It is so important to have that mutual support and positive energy when you’re backstage.

I know some of my fans are disappointed with my placing, but please know that I am happy. I always aim to do my best. I still have my dreams. And nothing feels better than the amazing response you give to me when I am on stage. Your appreciation of my performance and all my hard work is really beyond anything money or trophies can buy. Seeing fans standing and cheering in the auditorium is all that I can ever ask for J. It was great to hear so many people saying that they had come to Columbus to see Fitness. There may only be 10 of us competing, but I’m glad the fans see us as an interesting and entertaining part of the Arnold weekend. With fans like that, we’re all winners!

I am fortunate to have the support of so many people. Thanks to the fans for their constant encouragement on Facebook and Twitter, and at the shows. Thanks to SAN Nutrition for their sponsorship. SAN supplements give me energy in the gym, and help me with balanced nutrition throughout the phases of my diet and training. Thanks to Lisa Miles and Laura Richards for their beautiful posing suits. Thanks to my tailor, Jerry, for his help with my costume. Thanks to Matt Willems of Perfect Driver Music for helping to make my performance music just perfect. Thanks to my acting teachers at Playhouse West for helping me learn how to better express my emotions on stage. Thanks to my family for a lifetime of support, no matter how far away they may be. Thanks to the Arnold Classic organizers for putting on another great show! It’s always an honor to be on the Arnold stage. Thanks to the judges for their hard work. Thanks to the IFBB for giving us a stage on which to compete, be creative and be stars!

Finally, I am so thankful to the people who have taken the time to put their heart, mind and soul into my prep… my acrobatics coach, Vladimir Sizov, who has taught me so much and pushes me hard in the gym every time. He’s the only bodybuilder I know who has the skills and agility to actually compete in Fitness, lol…my manager, Tom Haynes, who is my second brain throughout the year. At contest time, when I’m focused on my body and performance, his brain may be the only one that’s working, lol…and my coach and trainer, Boris Ivanov, who has put his knowledge and soul into helping me, with endless patience, make my dreams come true. He’s been working with me for my whole pro career, and knows my body better than I know it myself. I am truly blessed to have such great support.

Work hard, stay strong, never give up!

With love,

Oksana
IFBB Fitness Pro
www.oksanagrishina.com

Follow Oksana on twitter at @OksanaGrishina and like her Facebook page.

Read Oksana’s Road to the Arnold at: http://www.hardbodynews.com/?s=oksana#sthash.YR0rlvFB.dpbs#ixzz2MmlVfNnh

Filed Under: Arnold Classic, News & Features, Road to The Arnold

2013 Bikini International Results & Review

March 6, 2013 by Hardbody Staff Leave a Comment

The annual Ms. Bikini International took place in Columbus, Ohio on March 2, 2013 as part of the Arnold Sports Festival. Sixteen women were invited to compete on the prestigious Arnold stage and when the scores were tallied a new winner was crowned for the third year in a row. Nicole Nagrani was the inaugural winner and Sonia Gonzales took home the title last year. This year, Florida resident, India Paulino took home the crown.

India Paulino edged out the reigning Ms. Bikini Olympia Champion, Nathalia Melo by two points for the win. Many in attendance thought the finals could go a number of ways based on the judges’ call-outs. India brought a slightly softer physique than we’ve seen in the past but as expected she sported a yellow bikini and brought sass to the stage. Nathalia brought a similar look as she had to the Olympia stage but came up just short in the judges’ score sheets. She has a bit more muscle in her legs than the other women in this line-up and it may have hurt her since there was no one to compare her to with a similar build. Nathalia has always posed with great energy and confidence.

Nicole Nagrani look a little smaller than we’ve seen her in the past and she brought a new look to the stage. She had a very noticeable breast augmentation done in the off-season and it didn’t quite feel like we were seeing the same Nicole as year’s past. Aside from the obvious of the physical appearance it was also the presentation. Gone was the cutesy, bubbly young Nicole we’d seen in her first two years as a pro.

Yeshaira Robles is the epitome of class. She has a smile that will light up the darkest room and she has the ability to be cute and sexy with a bat of an eye. If Yeshaira had been crowned the winner you’d likely get few arguments from the fans. Jessica Paxson quietly finished in the fifth place position. She wasn’t in the initial first call-out but after a few comparisons between the 4-8 finishers she locked in fifth place. Jessica has the complete look from head to toe and she presented more confident than ever. Rounding out the top six was the always consistent Jaime Baird. Jaime has a long, lean legs and it can some times hurt her against the shorter women. She held her own once again but didn’t quite have the same glow to her presentation as she has in the past.

One woman to watch in the coming shows is Ashley Kaltwasser. She has a great physique and as she clocks more stage presence and gets more comfortable on stage, you’ll see her move up. She finished in 10th but don’t be surprised if she has a pro victory to her credit before the year is over.

View photos from the 2013 Bikini International.

2013 Bikini International Results:
1. India Paulino
2. Nathalia Melo
3. Nicole Nagrani
4. Yeshaira Robles
5. Jessica Paxson
6. Jaime Baird
7. Jennifer Andrews
8. Tiffany Marie Boydston
9. Tawna Eubanks
10. Ashley Kaltwasser
11. Anna Virmajoki
12. Lacey DeLuca
13. Abigail Burrows
14. Lexi Kaufman
15. Noy Alexander
16. Marcela Tribin

Filed Under: Arnold Classic, Contest Results, News & Features

Tanji Johnson’s Wait is Over – 2013 Fitness International Results

March 2, 2013 by Hardbody Staff Leave a Comment

The Fitness International is a show that every fitness competitor dreams of competing in and few ever experience winning it. For nearly a decade, Tanji Johnson has been chasing the elusive Arnold title. She’s come close to winning a number of times but hadn’t until now. This year she put it all together and finally had the opportunity to shake Arnold’s hand.

Tanji positioned herself for the win by coming with a tight, conditioned physique. She’s been up and down with her placings in the physique round but this time she left no question in the judges’ eyes. She headed into the night show needing a solid routine performance in order to win and she did exactly that. It wasn’t Tanji’s best performance we’ve ever seen and she appeared to struggle a bit at times. It was still a good routine that included a number of strength moves mixed in with a little dance.

Oksana Grishina has become a fan favorite over the years. Her creativity and passion for fitness is obvious in every routine she performs. Every year Oksana brings an unique and interesting routine to the stage. This year was no different and left many with goosebumps. Oksana was in 4th place after the physique round and despite being better than in previous years, the physique round kept her out of the winner’s circle. Oksana was the unanimous winner in the routine round with her JOKER theme. It was full of strength, artistry and drama from start to finish. She continues to improve in the physique round and when it comes to the routines, everyone agrees she’s always one of the most memorable.

Bethany Cisternino brought a great physique to the show. A case could be made for her winning the 2-piece round but no shame in finishing in second there. Bethany was fourth in the routine round and is always improving her presentation on stage. She has incredible gymnastic skills and makes the most difficult moves looks easy. Bethany’s third place finish was well deserved and look for her to be a threat for the win in any show she enters.

Trish Warren bounced back from sitting out last year after the birth of her first child. Momma Warren proved that nothing can stop you if you’re focused and committed. Trish was 5th heading into the routine round and could have been a bit tighter in the physique comparisons. She brought a rock’n routine to the stage and the third place score helped her finish in fourth.

Regiane DaSilva brought another fast-paced, high flying routine to the stage and it helped her land in 5th. Regiane always scores a bit lower in the physique rounds and it leaves her playing catch up heading into the routine round.

2013 Fitness International Results
1. Tanji Johnson
2. Oksana Grishina
3. Bethany Cisternino
4. Trish Warren
5. Regiane DaSilva
6. Ryall Graber-Vasani
7. Kizzy Vaines
8. Nicole Duncan
9. Fiona Harris
10. Amanda Hatfield

View competition photos of all the competitors on bodybuilding.com.

Filed Under: Arnold Classic, Contest Results, News & Features

Candice Keene Finishes Strong – 2013 Figure International Results

March 2, 2013 by Hardbody Staff Leave a Comment

The 2013 Figure International was chalked full of upsets and surprises. Heading into the contest it looked to be a showdown between Erin Stern and Candice Keene. Candice was looking to step out of Erin’s shadow and with the 2012 champ (Nicole Wilkins) sitting out, it was the perfect opportunity. Candice not only won but she did so with an unanimous decision on the judges’ scorecards.

Candice was clearly on the money and she posed with confidence and a little swagger. She is right at the line with muscularity. Any more and it will be too much and when you carry more muscle you have to find the perfect balance in conditioning to not look too hard and not appear too soft. Candice found that balance and left the stage a winner. The night was particularly special because not only did she get to shake hands with Arnold but she did so on her birthday. It’s safe to say that will be a memorable birthday for Candice.

One of the upsets of the night was Heather Dees finishing in second over the reigning Ms. Olympia. Heather edged out Erin by one point and positioned herself as one of the top contenders in the division. Erin was a little flat and not quite as sharp as she was at the Olympia. Heather has shaved off some muscle over the last year to year and a half and it’s helped in her placings. It’s human nature to compare the competitors to their best and it appeared everyone did that in this case. Erin being off her best and Heather being at her best helped set the stage for the upset.

Candice Lewis picked up where she left off in 2012. She brought a new look to the stage but with the same great shape. Candice’s challenge is keeping her legs down so they don’t overpower her physique. She seemed a little bit “deer in the headlights” at times with her stage presence but who wouldn’t be their first time on the Arnold stage?

Mallory Haldeman also continued her top five form at this show. Mallory hasn’t even been a pro for a full year and already she’s positioned herself as a top 6 contender in the Arnold and Olympia. Mallory needs to put on a bit more size and improve her stage presence. She’s a little shallow in her back and when she fills out her frame a bit you’ll see her move up.

Rounding out the top 6 in quiet form was Camala Rodriquez. Camala has nice shape and found a good balance with her conditioning. Many in attendance thought it could go either way between 5-7 placings. Ava Cowan was on the outside looking in as she finished in 7th. Ava brought one of her better physiques we’ve seen yet missed out on the top spots.

2013 Figure International Results:
1. Candice Keene
2. Heather Dees
3. Erin Stern
4. Candice Lewis
5. Mallory Haldeman
6. Camala Rodriguez
7. Ava Cowan
8. Gennifer Strobo
9. Cheryl Brown
10. Kamla Macko
11. Ann Titone
12. Aleisha Hart
13. Candice John
14. Nicole Sims
15. Alea Suarez
16. Giada Simari
16. Natalie Waples
16. Olga Morales

View competition photos of all the competitors on bodybuilding.com.

Filed Under: Arnold Classic, Contest Results, News & Features

Hardbody Backstage Pass – Arnold Amateur

March 1, 2013 by Hardbody Staff Leave a Comment

We were backstage last night at the 2013 Arnold Amateur and had the opportunity to capture some of the action many never see. Check out what goes on behind the curtain while waiting to go on stage or when exiting after the competition.

See all the photos from the Arnold Amateur on Bodybuilding.com. Congratulations to all who competed!

Backstage at the Arnold Amateur.

Filed Under: Arnold Classic, Behind the Scenes, News & Features

Photo Gallery: Best of The 2013 Arnold Amateur Fitness Routines

March 1, 2013 by Hardbody Staff Leave a Comment

The 2013 Arnold Amateur competition kicked things off last night in Columbus, Ohio. While the numbers in the fitness division were low, it wasn’t indicative of the level of competition. Competitors from across the globe entered the prestigious event. The women showcased tremendous skill and flexibility from start to finish.

If the competition was based on routines alone we’re going with Melinda Szabo to win the Short Class. She had tremendous dance skills and picture perfect toe points. Look for Alevtyna Titarenko to take top honors in the Tall Class. Alevtyna showcased some incredible strength and performed moves we’ve never seen before. It could come down to the two of these women for the overall title.

All the women did a great job. Congratulations to all who competed and dedicated to keep the crowd entertained in true sport fashion. Below are our favorite images from the routines.

Check out more photos from the competition and entire weekend on Bodybuilding.com.

Filed Under: Arnold Classic, Event Photos, News & Features

Follow Our Live Arnold Sports Coverage

February 28, 2013 by Hardbody Staff Leave a Comment

We’re in Columbus, Ohio for the 25th Anniversary of the Arnold Classic. You can follow our coverage all weekend long, live from the events. The fastest and easiest way to get update is via twitter or bookmark this page to see the info roll in live.

Visit Bodybuilding.com all weekend long for photos, videos, the FREE LIVE webcast and more. If using twitter include #asf2013 in your tweets.

Tweets about “#asf2013″

Filed Under: Arnold Classic, News & Features

Bus Crashes Carrying Maine Women’s Basketball Players

February 27, 2013 by Hardbody Staff Leave a Comment

GEORGETOWN, Mass. (AP) — A bus carrying University of Maine women’s basketball players ran off a highway north of Boston on Tuesday night, seriously injuring the driver, who police said may have had a medical episode.

State police said 22 other people on the bus, including students and athletic staff, had only minor injuries.

The driver, whose identity was not immediately released, was taken by helicopter to a Boston hospital.

The bus was southbound on Interstate 95 at about 8:30 p.m. when it crossed the median, went across the northbound lane and down an embankment into woods near Georgetown, a town of about 8,000 residents 30 miles from Boston.

Georgetown Fire Chief Al Beardsley said it was a miracle no other cars were involved.

“This is a very heavily traveled road, day and night, and for a bus that size to basically catapult across the road, I couldn’t imagine being northbound and seeing that thing coming at me,” Beardsley said at the scene.

The University of Maine said Coach Richard Barron was treated for minor facial cuts and three others — players Ashleigh Roberts and Corinne Wellington, and Samantha Wheeler, the team’s director of basketball operations — were taken to a hospital for observation. The team was en route to play Boston University on Wednesday night. That game has been postponed, according to the basketball schedule posted on UMaine’s website.

“We’re very thankful that this accident was not any worse than it was,” Robert Dana, vice president for student affairs and dean of students, said in a statement. “The thoughts of the entire University of Maine community are with the bus driver and the team as they contend with this very frightening event.”

- Read entire AP Release.

Filed Under: News & Features

20 Questions with Kathleen Tesori

February 27, 2013 by Hardbody Staff Leave a Comment

Kathleen Tesori fielded fan questions in our latest LIVE Twitter Chat. She shared if she’ll be competing any time soon, tips on how to get sponsored by bodybuilding.com and more find out how often she liked to cook her food, if she thinks a personal trainer is a good idea and what was Mayhem Miller like to work with on the set of MTV Bully Beatdown. If you’re at the Arnold Sports Festival, stop by the bodybuilding.com booth to meet Kat.

Kathleen Tesori LIVE Twitter Chat

1Q @kathleentesori how did you get involved with the #fitness industry & any advice for those just starting? #askKat
1A Got involved in the industry by competing in a bikini show. Best Advice is to never lose sight of what is important to you. #askkat

2Q @kathleentesori is Mayhem Miller as crazy in person as he seems? (referring to Bullybeatdown on MTV) #askKat
2A He is just like you see on TV really nice. He has no in between he is either super crazy and full of energy or reallly quiet! #askkat

3Q. @kathleentesori You’ve been super fit for quite a while now; is there anything u have yet to achieve that still motivates you? #askKat
3A I feel like I have lots to still achieve. Inspiring and motivating others keeps me going!!! I love living a healthy fit lifestyle #askkat

4Q @kathleentesori do you work out on an empty stomach in the morning, if not what do you eat? #askKat
4A Empty tummy with BCAAs if I am doing a light moderate type activity. 1/2 protein shake & a small bit of fruit if more than light #askkat

5Q @kathleentesori hi, I’m 39 and in the best shape of my life, do u think it’s too late for me to compete? #askKat
5A ABSOLULTY NOT… 30s AND 40s are the best years for our body’s true potential. Go for it! #askkat

6Q @kathleenTesori Loved your @MandF_Hers cover w/ the kettle bells. Do you train with them very often? #askKat
6A Not often. I do not own any and gyms do not have them usually. But I will use plates in place of kettle bells and do some moves #askkat

7Q @kathleenTesori How do I get sponsored by @bodybuildingcom like you? #askKat
7A Compete in the FIT USA show they host in June .Enter the spokesmodel search, Be active on bodyspace build a good following #askkat

8Q @kathleentesori who’s been your biggest role model? #askkat
8A Mother Teresa… my Mom… and Since 2008 when it comes to the industry my role model is @Jamie_Eason #askakt

9Q @kathleentesori Do you have any plans to compete in Figure or Bikini again?
9A No plans yet… the desire is there for bikini thinking this summer #askkat

10Q @kathleenTesori What is your favorite body part to train & do you have a favorite exercise? #askKat
10A Favorite body part to train shoulders… favorite exercise LUNGES of all kinds! #askkat

11Q @kathleentesori How often do you cook your meals and do you eat meat? #askKat
11A My not competing meal plan I eat meat 2 times a day. I cook on the weekends food lasts me Fri. to Fri. #askkat

12Q @kathleentesori Any advice for wanting someone wanting to get into #fitness modeling? #askKat
12A Find a “show” to compete in is the easiest way to be seen. Get educated before making decisions-research. Be a walking billboard #askkat

13Q @kathleentesori Do you have a personal trainer & do you think they help in getting into shape? #askKat
13A Trainers best investment you can make! @FeliciaRomero @Brandon_J_ are my miracle workers.find someone wise in nutrition & the gym #askat

14Q @kathleenTesori Any tips on how to cook tilapia & make it taste good?
14A buy the @CostcoTweets Kirkland brand BAKE @425 12 minutes. this BRAND is a must most tilapias taste like dirt. #askkat

15Q @kathleenTesori do you eat protein bars and if so do you have a favorite? #askKat
15A Quest bars – strawberry cheesecake @Bodybuildingcom AND ANY of @Jamie_Eason bars #askkat

16Q @kathleenTesori Will you be at the @arnoldsports this weekend? #askKat
16A I will be at the @ArnoldSports with @Bodybuildingcom all weekend long. Already packed and food prepped #askkat

17Q @kathleentesori Do you put out training videos or ever thought of having your own DVD? #askKat
17A no training videos yet. i would love to create some. I will be using more of YOUTUBE soon. I have my @Bodybuildingcom 360 video #askkat

18Q @kathleentesori what were you on a TV set for today? Are you becoming a weather person? #askKat
19A depends on goals and the ime I have… on the norm 2 to 3 morning cardio sessions a week-weekend. 30 mins after a workout. #askkat

20Q @kathleentesori Do you personal train people and do you do any online training? #ASkKat
20A i dont do any training i do lifestyle coaching – one on one sessions over the phone by skype or in person to get people started #askkat

See all of our Twitter chats here.

Filed Under: Twitter Chats

Hardbody Poll: Vote for Your Favorite Fitness Magazine Cover

February 26, 2013 by Hardbody Staff 1 Comment

Thew newest issues of women’s fitness magazines are hitting the newsstands now. Each magazine has taken a slightly different approach. Oxygen has gone outside the norm by not putting one but four women on the cover. Fitness RX for Women has India Paulino on their cover for a second time and represents the Bikini division this month. Muscle & Fitness HERS went with Figure Olympia Champion, Erin Stern for their cover and feature. Which of these covers do you like the best or maybe none of them? Cast your vote below.

Below you will find larger versions of each cover.

Fitness RX for Women

Muscle & Fitness HERS

oxygen-mag Oxygen

Which is your favorite fitness cover currently out.

Filed Under: Polls

Bikini International Preview & Hardbody Poll

February 25, 2013 by Hardbody Staff Leave a Comment

Last year’s Bikini International Champion, Sonia Gonzales will not be back to defend her title and that leaves the top spot up for grabs. The inagural winner, Nicole Nagrani will look to recapture the title but she’ll have to go through the reigning Ms.Bikini Olympia Champion Nathalia Melo.

The 2013 Bikini International will feature a mixture of seasoned veterans and hungry rookies. India Paulino has her sights set on her first major title but so does veteran Jamie Baird. Who will finish in the top spots? We’ll find out in just a few days.

Filed Under: Arnold Classic, News & Features, Show Previews

Colorado’s “Breakfast After the Bell” Bill

February 25, 2013 by Hardbody Staff Leave a Comment

We’ve all been told that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Skipping breakfast can leave you tired, cranky and hungry. Colorado lawmakers are looking at a bill that would ensure schoolchildren get a healthy breakfast. According to Hunger Free Colorado, The bill known as the “Breakfast After the Bell Nutrition Program” offers an affordable solution to thousands of children who arrive at school hungry and in turn less prepared to learn.

VIA Hunger Free Colorado
Breakfast is critical to learning and health, and it’s the number-one needed school supply for students to succeed. Yet, many kids in Colorado arrive at school hungry, focused on their rumbling bellies instead of being ready to learn. Those experiencing hunger—estimated to be 22% of all children in Colorado—are more likely to exhibit behavioral, emotional and academic problems. Simply put, hungry kids cannot learn. Teachers, doctors and parents agree—hungry children lack focus and have difficulty performing well in school. School breakfast served after the bell can make such a difference for students of all ages, especially for those who may not when and where they’ll get their next meal. We can—and should—increase the availability and accessibility of school breakfast by expanding after-the-bell serving models like Breakfast in the Classroom into more Colorado schools.

Hunger Free Colorado and many other organizations strongly support HB-1006, sponsored by Reps. Dominick Moreno of Commerce City and Tony Exum of Colorado Springs, and Sen. Angela Giron, D-Pueblo. The bill would require Colorado schools with 70% or more students qualifying for free or reduced-price meals to offer a nutritious after-the-bell breakfast program, if they have at least 100 students in their school and 300 total in the district.

Read the bill in its entirety. HB-1006 offers an affordable solution to the hundreds of thousands of children who arrive at school hungry and less prepared to learn. It is a responsible and cost-effective way to set Colorado’s children up for academic success while staying healthy.

Learn more about HB-1006, why after-the-bell breakfast is needed, what this bill will do and how it works, as well as see the growing list of organizations in support of HB-1006.

Visit www.hungerfreecolorado.org for more information.

Filed Under: News & Features, NUTRITION

Ana Delia De Iturrondo Spotlight: Women of The NPC

February 25, 2013 by Hardbody Staff Leave a Comment

Ana Delia has quietly moved into the spotlight over the past two years. She’s consistently finished in the top spots of every NPC show she has entered however it’s her ability to model that has people talking. One of the biggest challenges Ana has faced is living outside of the continental U.S. The distance can make it expensive and inconvenient to get to shows and modeling opportunities. She’s proving that if you’re determined and motivated you can overcome any obstacle.

Ana has appeared in a number of advertisements and magazines outside of the fitness industry. She is a perfect example that you don’t have to win shows or be a pro to find success in the fitness industry. Ana won month three of the FLEX Online Model Search and went on to be crowned the overall Flex Bikini Model Search winner. Previous winners have been Amanda Latona, Kathleen Tesoi, Alex Zerega and Yarelis Gonzales. She currently works as a make-up artist in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Visit NPCnewsonline.com for a HARDBODY Photo Gallery with Ana D photographed by LiftStudios at MetroFlex Long Beach, CA. Follow Ana on twitter and “like” her Facebook page.

NPC Bikini Division Results:
• 2012 NPC South Beach Classic (National Qualifier): Bikini B Winner
• 2012 NPC/IFBB Pittsburgh Pro: 6th Place
• 2012 NPC NY Metropolitan: 2nd Place
• 2011 NPC Eastern USA: 2nd Place
• 2011 NPC Team Universe: 4th Place
• 2011 NPC NY Metropolitan: 2nd Place

• 2012 Olympia Flex Model Search Contest Overall Winner
• 2012 Month 3 Flex Model Search Online: Winner

Ana D. on NPCnewsOnline.com

Filed Under: News & Features, Photo shoots Tagged With: ana d, photo gallery

Live Hardbody Twitter Chat with Kathleen Tesori

February 25, 2013 by Hardbody Staff Leave a Comment

Lifestyle Coach and Fitness Model, Kathleen Tesori joins us LIVE on Tuesday, February 26th at 9pm EST. Kathleen will answer your questions on twitter in real-time. She’ll talk about landing magazine covers, getting sponsorships and any tips you may be looking for in your nutrition and workouts. She’s been seen in Muscle & Fitness HERS, FLEX, Muscle & Fitness and many other magazines. Kat will be appearing at the Bodybuilding.com booth during this year’s Arnold Sports Festival.

Don’t miss this opportunity to have Kathleen answer your questions personally and live on twitter.

The Hardbody 411:

LIVE Hardbody News Twitter CHAT

DAY: Tuesday, February 26, 2013
TIME: 9pm EST
HASHTAG: #askKat
FOLLOW ON TWITTER: @hardbodynews and @KathleenTesori

NEW TO TWITTER CHAT?
Do a search for #askKat on Twitter at 9pm EST (on the 26th) to view the twitter conversation. Add #askKat to your tweets so everyone can join in the conversation and see your questions. You can follow along live on our twitter chat page as well.

Tweets about “#askKat”

Filed Under: Twitter Chats

Fitness Icon Rachel McLish Part of MAKERS: Women Who Make America

February 23, 2013 by Hardbody Staff Leave a Comment

Rachel McLish has been labeled many things in her life. It doesn’t matter which moniker you choose from role model, icon to pioneer; they are all fitting. Rachel won the first Ms. Olympia competition in 1980. She became the first female bodybuilding champion and her efforts not only changed her life but also those of women every where and created a fitness revolution in the process.

Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) has produced a documentary, that will air on February 26, featuring women who help change America. The project, MAKERS: Women Who Make America, is a three-part series on the women’s movement with an online component at www.makers.com.

PBS President Paula Kerger said in a recent press release that MAKERS will tell the story of how women have helped advance America in the last 50 years.

The film is built from first-person, intimate accounts of women who experienced this time of change and confronted the dramatic social upheaval in their own lives including movement leaders such as author and feminist activist Gloria Steinem and actress, author and activist Marlo Thomas; media moguls like Oprah Winfrey and Katie Couric; and political influencers like former Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton and retired U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor. – Businesswire

Rachel was raised in Harlingen, Texas and began weight training at an early age. She tells MAKERS that growing up she identified with her father because he had strength, freedom, money and he made the decisions. She wanted to be like that. It was that drive and determination that helped her become not only a champion bodybuilder but also an actress and author. Rachel helped dispel the perception that females who lifted weights had to be masculine and were unattractive. Her involvement in the fitness industry helped make physical fitness part of women’s daily lives.

She wanted to empower women and improve their self-confidence. Rachel said, “I wanted to show them you could be sexy, beautiful and you can be as strong as a man.” Rachel helped do that by opening South Texas’s first health club and getting women involved in lifting weights.

Visit MAKERS.com for video interviews with Rachel and hear her speak on a variety of topics.

images from makers.com interviews

Filed Under: News & Features

2013 Figure International Preview

February 22, 2013 by Hardbody Staff 1 Comment

Nicole Wilkins has won Figure International for the last three years. Now that she’s out of the competition, the stage is set for a new queen of fitness. Who will it be? Three-time Figure International Champion Nicole Wilkins has decided to sit out this year’s competition at the Arnold Classic. That means the door is open for one of the 18 competitors lined up to take her place. The obvious favorite, at least on paper, is Erin Stern; but Candice Keene is nipping at her heels. There’s also a crew of newcomers determined to make their presence known.

Read the breakdown of the Figure International on Bodybuilding.com. Cast your vote for you who would like to see win the 2013 Figure International.

For more information on the Arnold Sports Festival visit www.arnoldsportsfestival.com and use #ASF2013 in all your coverage on twitter.

Filed Under: Arnold Classic, News & Features Tagged With: arnold, figure, preview

21 Questions with Figure Champ Nicole Wilkins

February 22, 2013 by Hardbody Staff Leave a Comment

Two-time Figure Olympia and 3x Figure International Champion, Nicole Wilkins joined us for a live twitter chat. During the hour, she provided fans with workout tips, nutrition advice and posing insight. Nicole also shared that she’s planning to compete at the New York Pro. Check out the entire Q&A with Nicole.

1Q @NicoleMWilkins I want to get into figure competitions, but have no clue where to begin. Where should I start?
1A Attend a show in your area, ask qs and def hire a trainer with experience working w/ competitors. #askNicole

2Q @NicoleMWilkins Is it hard to sit out the @ArnoldSports this year and will you still be there, if so where? #askNicole
2A Yes and no. Knew my body needed a break plus I moved from MI to CA. Would’ve made prep vry hard. Will be at @Official_METRx #askNicole

3Q @nicolemWilkins What is YOUR biggest obstacle during a contest prep? #asknicole
3A Ha! the beginning-Getting back into routine. Traveling/training/packing food is also hard. I ❤ it tho. #asknicole

4Q @nicoleMwilkins Have you ever thought of switching back to #fitness? (nicole won the fitness & figure title at the same show) #asknicole
4A Nope. I think I’ll stick with what I’m better at.

5Q @NicoleMWilkins How do you deal with the mental aspect of weight gain during your off season? #askNicole
5A I’ve never been a ‘skinny’ girl and I’m ok w/ that. I am strong, healthy and I think I look good so that’s all that matters. #asknicole

6Q @NicoleMWilkins How do you train to keep symmetry for your physique? #askNicole
6A I have to train my upper body heavy to balance my lower. Lower gains muscle easy so I do lots of sprints/plyos. #asknicole

7Q @NicoleMWilkins What is your favorite part about competing? The prep, the walk on stage or the “bling” #askNicole
7A All of the above. the challenges day 2 day, seeing improvements, motivating others, the rush of the stage etc #asknicole

8Q @NicoleMWilkins What carbs are u utilizing during your preps & do u use whey #protein for all weeks of prep? #askNicole
8A Oats, brown rice, sweet pot, rice cakes usually. I use whey only for emergencies during prep. Off-season more often. #asknicole

9Q @NicoleMWilkins Do you do cardio workouts on the stair master? If so, how long & what intensity? #askNicole
9A Yes. I love that thing. I also run, track, ellipticize (I think I just made that up). Duration/intensity varies. #asknicole

10Q @NicoleMWilkins What is your biggest challenge when training clients & what do you enjoy most from training clients? #askNicole
10A Biggest challenge is when you want it more than them. I love when I people change their lives – lower cholesterol, BP etc #asknicole

11Q @NicoleMWilkins Any tips/hints on practicing posing for figure? i.e. duration to hold each pose, what to focus on, etc. #askNicole
11A practice practice practice!! Learn to flare lats, be confident and not robotic. When practicing hold poses for 30sec #asknicole

12Q @NicoleMWilkins How often do you train legs & what exercises helped build yours the most? #askNicole
12A Once a week. Squats and lunges are two of the most important IMO for legs. And don’t neglect your hamstrings! #asknicole

13Q @NicoleMWilkins Do you find it difficult 2 maintain a clean diet / workout plan when in a relationship? #asknicole
13A lol depends on who you’re w/. For me no. It is my life and is very important to me. I need my significant others support. #asknicole

14Q @NicoleMWilkins What changes the most in your diet from contest prep to off-season? #askNicole
14a precontest-very strict,food measured, no sugar, don’t miss meals. Offseason-still clean 2-3hrs but more variety,will go out2eat. #asknicole

15Q @NicoleMWilkins What do you have for pre and post workout meal and does it change in your off-season? #askNicole
15A usually lean meat/sw pot and 15 almonds pre and shake or lean meat and rice cakes/apple post #asknicole

Hold up @NicoleMWilkins 15 almonds… Do you count them out? lol Sorry couldn’t resist. #asknicole
@hardbodynews ha! Maybe 16 or 21. What’s the difference, right @OddosAngels?

16Q @NicoleMWilkins Do you prepare for a #photoshoot different to a comp? If so, how? #asknicole
16A usually at shoots you can be a little softer than onstage. For me? na not much difference.

17Q @NicoleMWilkins What do you think are the best supplements for women trying to build lean muscle and lose weight? #asknicole
17A You MUST have a sound nut. plan. Supplements supplement that.Multi, BCAAs,EFAs,Glutamine, @Official_METRx joint guard, Whey #asknicole

18Q @NicoleMWilkins What brand of jeans do you wear and find that fit muscular quads? #asknicole
18A I hate jeans. They hate me lol. Needs to have stretch – I get waist tailored in. Express and Buckle – silver jeans. #asknicole

19Q @NicoleMWilkins We are talking training, but what do you do for fun? Do you have any hobbies? #asknicole
19A I love traveling, trying new restaurants, movies, amusement parks, coffee shops, long walks on the beach… #asknicole

20Q @NicoleMWilkins Do you have any upcoming plans to hold seminars in the US? #askNicole
20A yes! Omg so many: few in CA, 2 in New Orleans, 1 in MI, Texas, FL, maybe AZ. Follow here and fb facebook.com/nicolewilkins01 #asknicole

21Q @NicoleMWilkins Will you be putting out another DVD & when/where will you compete next? #askNicole
21A Yes! DVD: Legs and Glutes. Editing now – How to structure wo/track wo/plyo/cardio4glutes etc.due in spring. Next show: NYPro #asknicole

That’s all the time we have for @NicoleMWilkins #askNicole chat. Thnx 4 all your questions! Visit her site nicolewilkins.com for more!

Filed Under: Twitter Chats

Four Strategies to Avoid Eating Disorders Relapse

February 21, 2013 by Hardbody Staff Leave a Comment

Tens of millions of Americans struggle with eating disorders, including a growing population of baby boomers, adolescents and children. For individuals in recovery from these complex illnesses, a frightening reality is the possibility of eating disorders relapse.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Eating Recovery Center Offers Guidance to Help Individuals Avoid Eating Disorders Relapse
During National Eating Disorders Awareness Week 2013

International treatment center encourages four strategies for living a life of recovery

Denver, Colo. (February 20, 2013) – Tens of millions of Americans struggle with eating disorders, including a growing population of baby boomers, adolescents and children. For individuals in recovery from these complex illnesses, a frightening reality is the possibility of eating disorders relapse. In fact, a 2005 study in the European Eating Disorders Review found that more than one-third of individuals who have struggled with anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa will experience an eating disorders relapse in the first two and a half years after leaving a treatment center.

With National Eating Disorders Awareness Week 2013 taking place next week, February 24-March 2, Eating Recovery Center, an international center providing comprehensive treatment for eating disorders, seeks to highlight the skills and support structures that help men, women and children live a life of recovery. Recognizing that the hardest work of recovery often begins upon returning to “real life” following intensive eating disorders treatment, Eating Recovery Center offers these four strategies to help individuals protect their health and avoid eating disorders relapse.

1. Remain actively engaged with the aftercare plan. Discharge planning and the development of a recovery-focused post-treatment strategy are critical in creating sustainable recoveries and preventing relapse. These individualized aftercare plans are created by licensed therapists who work closely with a patient’s treatment team to identify emotional, behavioral and situational discharge challenges, and outline personal and recovery-focused goals.

2. Develop a strong supportive network. Friends, family and colleagues who have been educated about eating disorders and understand how to support a loved one in his or her recovery can be very helpful in sustaining recovery. Many individuals find a strong recovery-focused community through the alumni programming offered by many treatment centers. These programs generally provide ongoing education, events and a sense of community to support a life of eating disorders recovery.

3. Identify values and pursue valued life directions. Values not only serve as a compass for people’s lives, but also help individuals with eating disorders understand why change is necessary and pursue that change, even when it feels overwhelmingly difficult. Not surprisingly, identifying values and valued life directions are key components of the eating disorders recovery process. Taking time to be in touch with values and align thoughts and actions with valued life directions can help sustain recovery, even in times of stress or challenges.
4. Seek help. Sustainable recoveries do not just happen. Individuals and families in recovery from eating disorders must work diligently to protect and maintain a healthy weight and body image. The need for additional support – through support groups, outpatient therapy or an intensive treatment program – does not indicate failure, but rather underscores an ongoing commitment to doing whatever it takes to sustain eating disorders recovery.

“By nature, individuals with eating disorders tend to be perfectionistic and high achieving—they like to do things right, and they like to be the best at their endeavors,” explains Julie Holland, MHS, CEDS, chief marketing officer at Eating Recovery Center. “Their approach to recovery is generally no different, and patients often struggle to understand that life without an eating disorder looks different for every individual and there is no ‘right’ or ‘perfect’ way to live a life of recovery. In addition to developing recovery skills and implementing effective support systems, patients must also accept that challenges are likely to arise and understand that they have not failed even if recovery lapses occur.”

For more information about National Eating Disorders Awareness Week 2013, visit www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/nedawareness-week.

Join Eating Recovery Center and its partner programs, The Moore Center and Summit Eating Disorders and Outreach Program, at the following events during National Eating Disorders Awareness Week 2013:

• National Eating Disorders Association Walk, hosted by The Eating Disorder Network of Central Florida; Sunday, February 24, Orlando, Fla. (Eating Recovery Center sponsoring)
• Mind and Body Fair, hosted by the University of Northern Colorado’s Women’s Resource Center; Monday, February 25, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Greeley, Colo. (Eating Recovery Center exhibiting)
• Eating Recovery Center Patient Artwork Exhibit; February 25-March 1, Eating Recovery Center lobby, 1830 Franklin Street, Denver, Colo.
• Eating Recovery Center Patient Artwork Exhibition Reception; Thursday, February 28, 5:30-7:00 p.m., Eating Recovery Center lobby, 1830 Franklin Street, Denver, Colo.
• Amber Sokoll, MA, NCC, RYT, speaking at Beyond the Mirror’s professional networking event; Tuesday, February 26, Fort Collins, Colo.
• Jennifer Lombardi, MFT, speaking at the Celebrate Your Body Week event, hosted by the University of California Davis; Wednesday, February 27, Davis, Calif. (Summit speaking, exhibiting)
• Jennifer Lombardi, MFT, speaking at the Love Your Body event, hosted by California State University Sacramento; Thursday, February 28, Sacramento, Calif. (Summit speaking, exhibiting)
• Celebrity Dance Challenge, hosted by the Eating Disorders Information Network; Thursday, February 28, Atlanta, Ga. (Eating Recovery Center sponsoring, attending)
• Jen Sommer, RD, speaking at Eating Disorders Coalition of Iowa event; Saturday, March 2, Des Moines, Iowa. (Eating Recovery Center speaking, exhibiting)
• National Eating Disorders Association Walk, hosted by the University of Nevada Reno; Saturday, March 2, Reno, Nev. (Summit sponsoring, exhibiting)
Binge Eating Disorder Workshop, hosted by The Moore Center; Saturday, March 2, Bellevue, Wash.

About Eating Recovery Center
Eating Recovery Center is an international center providing comprehensive treatment for anorexia, bulimia, EDNOS and binge eating disorder. Under the personal guidance and care of Drs. Kenneth Weiner, Craig Johnson, Emmett Bishop and Ovidio Bermudez, programs provide a full spectrum of services for children, adolescents and adults that includes Inpatient, Residential, Partial Hospitalization, Intensive Outpatient and Outpatient Services. Our compassionate team of professionals collaborates with treating professionals and loved ones to cultivate lasting behavioral change. Denver-based facilities include the Behavioral Hospital for Adults, the Behavioral Hospital for Children and Adolescents, the Partial Hospitalization Program and Outpatient Services for Adults, and the Partial Hospitalization Program for Children and Adolescents. In an effort to increase patient access to care throughout the United States, Eating Recovery Center partners with Summit Eating Disorders and Outreach Program in Sacramento, Cali., and The Moore Center for Eating Disorders in Bellevue, Wash. Summit offers Partial Hospitalization and Outpatient Services as well as Intensive Outpatient and Outpatient Services in Fresno and Roseville. The Moore Center offers Partial Hospitalization, Intensive Outpatient and Outpatient Services. For more information, please contact us at 877-218-1344 or info@EatingRecoveryCenter.com or confidentially chat live on our website at www.EatingRecoveryCenter.com.

Filed Under: News & Features Tagged With: eating disorder

Live Twitter Chat with Nicole Wilkins

February 21, 2013 by Hardbody Staff 1 Comment

Join us today for our LIVE Hardbody News twitter chat with Champion Figure competitor and popular fitness model, Nicole Wilkins. Nicole joins us LIVE on twitter at 9pm EST to answer your questions. She’ll talk about sitting out the Arnold, tips on modeling, her latest DVD and more. Nicole has appeared on numerous covers and has become one of the top competitors in the IFBB. She’s also a sponsored athlete with MET-RX, so if you have questions on sponsorship she’ll address those as well.

Don’t miss this opportunity to have Nicole answers your questions personally and live on twitter.

The Hardbody 411:

LIVE Hardbody News Twitter CHAT

DAY: Thursday, February 21, 2013
TIME: 9pm EST
HASHTAG: #asknicole
FOLLOW ON TWITTER: @hardbodynews and @NicoleMWilkins

NEW TO TWITTER CHAT?
Do a search for #asknicole on Twitter at 9pm EST to view the twitter conversation. ADD #askNicole to your tweets so everyone can join in the conversation and we can see your questions. You can follow along live on our twitter chat page as well.

Tweets about “#asknicole”

Filed Under: Twitter Chats Tagged With: nicole, twitter chat

19 Questions with Amanda Latona – Live Twitter Chat Q&A

February 19, 2013 by Hardbody Staff Leave a Comment

We caught up with cover girl and popular fitness model, Amanda Latona live on twitter. The questions came in fast and furious. We weren’t able to ask every question that came in but during the hour the cover model shared with us and her fans she answered a variety of things thrown at her.

Live Twitter Q&A with Amanda Latona

1Q What’s your biggest goal for 2013?
1A My goal every new year is to everything bigger, better and more awesome then the year before.That being said,more tv & mainstream.

2Q I’m having a hard time going to the #gym. How do you push yourself?
2A TRAINING HAS ALWAYS BEEN A PASSION OF MINE, SO I PHYSICALLY JUST LUV TO GO. I’ve been there though and thats the times u.
2A cont. You gotta invision what you want. GO AFTER IT! Dig deep, find that inner motivation& know that gotta out in the hard work

3Q U r my fav athlete! I fell off the wagon one year ago…what should I eat to start burning fat again?
3A I understand, 1st DONT get discouraged.Cut out all processed foods,limit carbs to 1st meal and post lift.lean protein/veggies

4Q Your glutes: genetics or what did you do to build them into what they are today?
4A I always say a mixture of both. had a butt since I was young but worked my butt off to build build it.YEARS of heavy lifting#askamanda

5Q Are you competing in 2013 & will you be at @ArnoldSports?
5A My plans are Olympia and Sac right now. Need a break for hormones, injuries. I will def be at the Arnold for @BSNFinishFirst

6Q Why do you eat 6 meals a day?
6A Ha why not? Heck I would eat 15 times a day if I could.I’m always hungry & luv me sum food.But, its to keep blood levels steady

7Q What got you started in the #fitness industry?
7A I started as a singer in a girls group.they gave us a gym membership 2 stay in shape. went in, fell in love, been hooked.

8Q How much cardio (time/how often) would you recommend and do you do?
8A Depends on ur goals. I’m never a slave to cardio. I like less time, more intense for me right now, 3-4 days @30-@35 min HIIT

9Q What is your favorite outfit to do a serious workout at the gym in?
9A Hands down @lululemon WonderUnders and a HOODIE. All my booty pics are in those & I’m never to naked @ gym. I’m There to work.

10Q What fat burners do you recommend & what’s your fav @BSNFinishFirst protein flavor?
10A @BSNFinishFirst HYPERSHRED! luv it. Ya’ll know me know I’m a peanut butter nut head! so syntha 6 choc.p.b. also…cont. @BSNFinishFirst I just found out is coming out with..wait for it…PEANUT BUTTER COOKIE FLAVOR FOR SYNTHA 6 !!#heaven

11Q Do you feel weight training is a good source of cardio? Trying to be careful w/ my adrenal fatigue.
11A Gotcha. Weight training is good cardio depending on intensity/rest periods/training styles. for cardio though, I like cardio.

12Q Do you have any regrets with #fitness or your singing career?
12A I live life with the mantra “I’m exactly where I’m supposed to be” no regrets. never dwell on the past

13Q What’s the best advice to get into #fitness modeling & getting a cover?
13A Know ur brand. Look good. Have a personality & knowledge. Be aggressive. Compete to be seen.Be humble & nice.

14Q Do you have any advice for someone who wants to compete one day in a pro fitness comp?
14A Get a good coach. Go to the shows to see what its all about. Knowledge is key. Talk to people, network, ask questions & research.

15Q Do you use heavier weights to help with toning & building more muscle Or lighter weights higher reps?
15A I don’t believe in building or toning. I lift heavy & lite to switch it up 4 my body. Diet &c ardio is my means of building or toning

16Q Who is your biggest inspiration & what motivates you?
16A inspiration is anyone who is selfless & helps people. in fitness, its people who set a goal&make positive changes in their life
16AA what motivates me are the people who tell me that I inspire them.It keeps me goin when I dont feel like it

17Q Do you eat carbs at night & what’s typically your last meal?
17A I sometimes but rarely eat carbs at night. I do add more carbs on lifting days. Last meal is 99%of the time protein/fat

IF YOU WANT TO KNOW WHAT I EAT. I USUALLY TAKE PICS AND POST EM ON INSTAGRAM, SO COME FOLLOW ME THERE. @amandalatona #askamanda

(We forgot to ask #18 oops)

19Q Can I train with you & what’s next for you this year?
19A WAHOO! You will FINALLY be able to train with me this year! I will be “hands on”training & posing at a new Vegas studio. Cant wait

20Q Where is the studio & do you have a #training DVD yet?
20A The studio is in Vegas but will be doin online as well. This year my goal is to have a training DVD.

Follow Amanda on twitter and stop by the BSN Booth at the 2013 Arnold to meet her in person.

Filed Under: Twitter Chats

Live Twitter Chat with Amanda Latona

February 19, 2013 by Hardbody Staff Leave a Comment

Join us today for our LIVE Hardbody News twitter chat. Popular fitness model, Amanda Latona joins us today at 6PM EST LIVE on twitter. She’ll be answering all your questions and sharing insight into how she went from virtual unknown in the world of fitness to one of the most popular models in the biz. Amanda has appeared on numerous covers including the current issue of Muscle & Fitness HERS.

Don’t miss this opportunity to have Amanda answers your questions personally and live on twitter.

The Hardbody 411:

LIVE Hardbody News Twitter CHAT
Fitness personality, cover model and multi-talented Amanda Latona joins us for a live twitter chat on Tuesday, February 19th at 6pm EST.

Amanda answers your questions LIVE on twitter. Find out how she went from a recording artist to top fitness personality.

DAY: Tuesday, February 19, 2013
TIME: 6pm EST
HASHTAG: #askamanda
FOLLOW ON TWITTER: @hardbodynews and @amandalatona

NEW TO TWITTER CHAT?
Do a search for #askamanda on Twitter at 6pm EST to view the twitter conversation. ADD #askamanda to your tweets so everyone can join in the conversation and we can see your questions. You can follow along live on our twitter chat page as well.

Amanda will be appearing at the BSN booth throughout the 2013 Arnold Sports Festival next week.

Tweets about “#askamanda”

Filed Under: News & Features

20 Questions with Nathalia Melo

February 16, 2013 by Hardbody Staff Leave a Comment

If you missed our Live Twitter Chat with cover model and reigning Bikini Olympia champion Nathalia Melo don’t sweat it. We’ve compiled the top 20 questions that were asked of the Brazilian Bikini star and what her answers were. Twitter forces you to be short and to the point as there are only 140 characters available in each “tweet.

20 Questions with cover model, bikini champion and personal trainer Nathalia Melo.

Keep in mind this was on twitter and you’ll notice abbreviations and shortened words to keep within 140 characters. #ASKNAT TWITTER CHAT

1Q. What made you decide to move to the USA from Brazil?
1A. I felt like there were many things and dreams I wanted to go after! Here was the perfect place!

2Q. What’s the biggest misconception people have about you?
2A. Ha! I’ve seen lots of ppl think I don’t understand their sneaky offers because English isn’t my first language and I have an accent.

3Q. What is your first language and will you be at the first @ArnoldSports Brasil this year?
3A. First language is Portuguese, and YES will be at the @ArnoldSports Brazil! So excited! Oh… and ”HOLA” is not Portuguese! =p

4Q. How did u keep urself motivated during ur first competition & how did u keep ur nerves down?
4A. I always liked workin out, so the changes in my body kept me motivated. I wasn’t really nervous… Not shy here! LOL

5Q. Aside from the language what was the biggest change from Brazil?
5A. The opportunities! There are a lot of opportunities in the US… I am very thankful for all this country has offered me.

6Q. What’s your biggest inspiration or drive? By the way always love your first appearance on @muscle_fitness
6A. It inspires me to know that all my hardwork and dedication inspires ppl all over the world to be fitter and healthier.

7Q. Do you typically do a.m. cardio on an empty stomach?
7A. Yeah! I tried eating before, but it didnt work well… I got sick! Oooops! LOL

8Q. I know your family is important to you. How have they supported you and your fitness career? Especially early on.
8A. I moved to US solo when I was 20, and worked my butt off to support myself, but now they understand n support my choices.

9Q. Did you play sports/dance/cheer/ballet, or do gymnastics growing up?
9A. I played everything, and sucked at them all! Hahahaha… I’ve always been into sports tho!

10Q. Do u have any advice for a first time #bikini competitor 6 weeks out from my first show?
10A. Do it for YOU and enjoy the ride!

11Q. Now that you’re getting alot of exposure do you have any new goals because of it?
11A. Of course! You always wanna be better than you were yesterday! Lots of cool things in the make…stay tuned!

12Q. Do you watch the @UFC and if so who is your favorite fighter?
12A. I could say ”The Brazilian ones”, but that would be 75% of UFC…hahaha… I do like Anderson

13Q. Other than “Awesome”, How did it feel winning Olympia last year?
13A. I still cant believe it! Everytime I watch a video or see a picture I am like ”Daaaang, That’s me!!” LOL

14Q. Do you ever drink a glass of wine?
14A. AbsofreakinLutely! I am human too! LOL.. I take 2 times off a year, and enjoy myself with good food n cpl glasses of wine.

15Q. Do you have a cheat day or cheat meal during your prep and if so what do you like?
15A. Not during contest prep. I could but i rather not have. I found it to reduce my cravings. After comp. I love chocolate! <3

16Q. How did you first get published in a magazine & any advice for new #models?
16A. I shot wit @liftstudios and he submitted my pics,n the mag liked them.Look for published photographers or reach out for the mag

17Q. Do you cook all your own food at once for the week and how do you stay on track when traveling?
17A. Cook 2x week. Food tastes a bit fresher. When traveling in season I take all my cooked food with me

18Q. How often to do you lift with weights and do you ever train other women?
18A, Weights 5x/week. I am a personal trainer, n 99% of my clients are women.

19Q. Do you still run as much as you were last prep & is it only outdoors or do you use a treadmill? Any incline, if so?
19A. Lots of running again! I run mostly on the treadmill cause in FL there are no ”inclines”LOL Once or 2x/week I run on the track

20Q. Will you be doing any other competitions after the @arnoldSports & will you have more camps if so where?
20A. I’m doin @FitXEvent and the Olympia. Confirmed seminars so far in Moncton and Newfoundland both in Canada. More to come..

That wraps it up for our live twitter chat with @nathaliamelofit. #askNat See her compete at the @ArnoldSports in 2 weeks.
HUGE thanks to @hardbodynews everyone who was a part of our Live chat! I had lots of fun and can’t wait to be on stage at @ArnoldSports

Follow Nathalia on twitter at @nathaliaMeloFit. You can see her compete at the 2013 Bikini International in Columbus, Ohio. Follow us on twitter at HardbodyNews. Check back for more live twitter chats in the days ahead with other Hardbody people.

Filed Under: Interviews, News & Features

Reeva Steenkamp Allegedly Shot Dead By Olympic Star

February 14, 2013 by Hardbody Staff Leave a Comment

Reeva Steenkamp, a 29-year old model was found dead in the home of double-amputee Olympian runner Oscar Pistorius. Pistorius, known as “Blade Runner” for racing with carbon fiber prosthetic blades, was arrested early Thursday morning and charged with murder. Allegedly, Steenkamp was mistaken as an intruder and shot by Pistorious.

Steenkamp appeared in FMM, numerous advertisements and was the face of AVON cosmetics in South Africa. On Wednesday she tweeted, “What do you have up your sleeve for your love tomorrow??? #getexcited #ValentinesDay”.

Steenkamp was an active user of twitter and recently used her account (@reevasteenkamp) to encourage her thousands of followers to fight sexual abuse.

“Before you lift a pen or raise your voice to criticise, acknowledge people’s circumstances. You don’t know their struggles. Their journey.”

She re-tweeted a message from singer/songwriter Lindiwe Suttle hours before her death. The message reads, “WEAR BLACK THIS FRIDAY IN SUPPORT AGAINST #RAPE AND WOMAN ABUSE #BLACKFRIDAY”

Around the same time frame, she shared an illustration on her instagram account with the message, “I woke up in a happy safe home this morning. Not everyone did. Speak out against the rape of individuals in SA. RIP Anene Booysen. #rape #crime #sayNO”.

Steenkamp often shared her love for healthy living and working out on twitter and instragram. She recently shared a photo of a shake in a popular SmartShake Cup with the tweet, “It’s a beautiful day!Make things happen. Starting my day off with a yummy healthy shake from my boo #healthyliving.” Last month she posted an image on instagram of “DROP IT LIKE A SQUAT” with the caption, “Time to get physical and burn some leftover Xmas ass before my event later. #CosmoSexyMen.”

Follow ESPN.com for ongoing reports related to this story.

Filed Under: News & Features

Jaime Baird Named Fitness RX Women Online Editor-in-Chief

February 14, 2013 by Hardbody Staff Leave a Comment

Congratulations to hardbody Jaime Baird on being named the new online editor-in-chief of FitnessRXwomen.com. Jaime found success on stage in the early stages of the IFBB Bikini division and has shown time and time again she’s more than just a bikini competitor. Jaime’s an inspiration to women whether they compete or not because of what she brings to the table and it has nothing to do with how fit her physique is.

Jaime has an extensive background in marketing and research and will take those talents to Advanced Research Media, publisher of Fitness RX Women.

NEWS RELEASE:
Jaime is a Top-5 Olympia competitor who’s already demonstrated her talent for writing in the pages of FitnessRx for Women magazine. For the last year, Jaime has worked as a valuable staff writer on our print edition, as she’s conducted interviews with fitness experts and pros, and contributed articles on training secrets, the best supplements and workout programs, tips for sticking to fitness goals, and much more. As part of the FitnessRx team, Jaime has contributed not only her talent for journalism, but also her incredible work ethic, passion, and top-notch organizational skills that will be a valuable asset in her new role as Editor-in-Chief of the website.

Jaime’s vast knowledge of fitness and nutrition is also evidenced by her popular web column, “YOUR BEST,” and FitnessRx training videos. ARM is excited that Jaime will now use her expertise to manage and direct all web content at FitnessRxwomen.com, which is quickly becoming one of the industry’s top sources for fitness content.

FitnessRx for Women Publisher Elyse Blechman says, “The entire team at FitnessRx for Women would like to welcome Fitness champion Jaime Baird as the new Editor-in-Chief of FitnessRxwomen.com. We look forward to her energetic leadership and the creation of even more fantastic content, which you’ve come to expect. We know Jaime will bring FitnessRxwomen.com to the next level. Welcome aboard, Jaime!”

“I’m absolutely thrilled to have the opportunity to help take FitnessRx For Women online to the next level,” Jaime says. “It’s an honor to be a part of the industry-leading Advanced Research Media team and a dream come true to have my career reflect my life’s mission: to empower women through fitness. I’m very grateful to the Steve and Elyse Blechman for believing in me and look forward to helping our readers look, feel and live their best.”

A little more on Jaime:
Jaime’s education and career has been in marketing and consumer research with a focus on motivation and emotions. Jaime has a Master’s in Communications and has served such brands as House of Blues, Universal and Nike. She started competing in 2007 as a “fun” outlet and because she says she needed balance. Jaime was working crazy hours, traveling weekly and not taking care of herself, she says. She found that fitness made her a lot more effective in everything that she did. “When I was eating right and training, I felt happier, stronger, more capable and more confident. That is when my passion for fitness grew, and I knew I wanted to help others, especially women, experience the power of fitness,” Jaime says.

News via FitnessRXwomen.com

Filed Under: News & Features Tagged With: jaime baird

Live Twitter Chat with Nathalia Melo

February 14, 2013 by Hardbody Staff Leave a Comment

Join us in our first LIVE Hardbody News twitter chats. The reigning Bikini Olympia champion, Nathalia Melo will be joining us tonight at 9pm EST live on twitter and answering all of your questions. Nathalia has appeared in numerous fitness magazines like Muscle & Fitness HERS, Fitness RX for Women, FLEX, Muscle & Fitness, Muscular Development and more.

Nathalia is two weeks out from the Arnold Sports’ Bikini International where she will look to add Bikini International Champion to her already impressive competitions resume. The Brazilian bombshell has become one of the most popular competitors and fitness models in the industry. She not only has the looks but her witty sense of humor will leave you laughing for days.

The Hardbody 411:

LIVE Hardbody News Twitter CHAT
Our first Twitter guest is cover model and reigning biknii olympia champion, Nathalia Melo. Nathalia will answer your questions live on twitter.

Nathalia will show her fans some Valentine’s Day love. One lucky person will receive a free autographed photo.

DAY: Thursday, February 14, 2013
TIME: 9pm EST
HASHTAG: #asknat
FOLLOW ON TWITTER: @hardbodynews and @nathaliamelofit

NEW TO TWITTER CHAT?
Do a search for #asknat on Twitter at 9pm EST to view the twitter conversation. ADD #asknat to your tweets so everyone can joi in the conversation and we can see your questions.

Filed Under: News & Features Tagged With: ask nat, nathalia melo, twitter

Valentine’s Day Protein Chocolate Treat Recipes

February 14, 2013 by Hardbody Staff Leave a Comment

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a healthier, protein version of chocolate treats. Try these homemade protein chocolates featured on Bodybuilding.com. Recipes for Strawberry Protein-Filled Dark Chocolate Bites, Chocolate Protein-Filled Dark Chocolate Cups and Dark Chocolate and Oat Protein Truffles are available for you to try this lovey day.

valentines-treats

Check out the recipes from Anna Sward and let us know how they turn out for you.

Ingredients
• 1/4 cup dried mulberries or dates
• 1/4 cup whey protein powder (vanilla or chocolate)
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/8 cup oats (or casein)
• 1 tbsp coconut flour
• 3 squares (30 grams) 100% cocoa dark chocolate.

Directions
• Mix together mulberries, protein powder, water, oats, and coconut flour and roll into 8 balls.
• Melt chocolate.
• Dip each ball into melted chocolate until completely covered.
• Top each truffle with cocoa or coconut and put them in the freezer for 30 minutes.

When the chocolate hardens, you’re done! Share with your sweetheart.

Dark Chocolate and Oat Protein Truffles PDF (439 KB)

Nutrition Facts Serving Size (1) recipe makes 8
Amount per serving
Calories 45
Total Fat 1.3g
Total Carb 2.9g
Protein 4g

Filed Under: News & Features, Recipes

SELF Magazines Redesign & Refocus

February 14, 2013 by Hardbody Staff 1 Comment

SELF Magazine is one of the most popular women’s fitness magazines today. SELF typically won’t show many hardcore hardbodies inside or on the cover but that’s not what sells the most magazines. All magazines are looking for more subscribers and more readers. The more magazines that are sold, the more advertisers they gain and in turn the more money they make.

SELF magazine’s biggest competitors are SHAPE and Women’s Health. The magazine has shifted it’s focus from exercise and wellness to a more general lifestyle magazine. Readers will see more fashion and beauty features along with a new design to the magazine.

According to Laura McEwen, vice president and publisher of SELF, the magazine’s current reader is a woman in her mid-30′s with a median income of $75,000. The shift in focus is aimed at targeting more of the 18-30 year old demographic. McEwen told the NYtimes, “The magazine is being edited for the women who think in 140 characters.” Referring to the number of characters (140) allowed in a single tweet. Like many other magazines, readers can use their smartphone to scan the pages and shop or view workout videos.

Will the magazine succeed in its attempt to be cool to a younger female reader? Only time will tell but it’s banking on catchier headlines and trendy topics. The magazine and website, which has also been redesigned, focuses on three sections… body, look and life. The web site also features FLASH which focuses on what’s happening now.

SELF, like many other fitness brands, is broadening itself beyond just a print magazine and website. Readers can download their app, interact with a social media game and look for the name to appear on fitness gear and equipment.

New look to SELF magazine.

Julianne Alexandra Hough is featured on the newest cover of SELF. She’s appeared on the cover before and also featured in a number of other magazines. She’s a professional ballroom dancer, singer and actress. Julianne is a two-time champion of ABC’s Dancing with the Stars.

Fitness is become a lifestyle for millions of women and that’s hardbody! Read more on the redesign and it’s future on NYtimes.com.

Filed Under: News & Features

Alea Suarez – 7 Tips To ‘Fitting It All In’

February 13, 2013 by Hardbody Staff Leave a Comment

Alea Suarez stops by with two weeks left in her Arnold prep. She shares the challenges of traveling, sick children, managing a business and more. How does she do it all? Check out her tips on fitting it all in and why she says “forget balance”.

Fitting It All In
By Alea Suarez

Hey Hardbodies! Wow! Prepping for the Arnold has definitely had its challenges for me this past month. I traveled to San Francisco to see family for a birthday party, my youngest son got the H2N3 God awful flu and somehow the rest of the family managed to avoid it, thank God! My business is picking up, which I am grateful for, but a little hard to manage while Hubby had to travel for work for a week and in the height of our oldest son’s basketball season.

People tell me, “I don’t know how you do it all.” Honestly, some days I don’t know either but I do have some competition survival guidelines I try to stick to in order to get it done. Mind you, this HAS to be flexible which is sometimes difficult for me, but here it is:

• Make a L.O.P. (List of Priorities) I write down what HAS to get done that day in order of importance & try my best to knock them out in that order when I have any time.

• Make a POA. (Plan of Action) My schedule is different every day so I go through everyday of the week & make an hour by hour schedule “booking appointments” for my “To Do tasks” where I don’t have a client scheduled. I try to time everything out from cardio & returning e-mails to an hour of laundry & returning text messages. I often fine there are not enough hours in the day & that’s where the LOP comes into play & can shift & change as clients schedule or cancel. That drives me a little crazy because once I get set, I don’t like to have to adjust. But I’ve learned it just goes with having your own business. Whioch leads me to #3…

• Forget balance. Balance is BS, especially for business owners who work from home part-time & homeschool part-time. When you’re trying to meet deadlines with children around, it’s laughable to think that you can somehow neatly schedule your life into “work” “family” and “me” time. Instead, I TRY to embrace the idea that sometimes your life is going to be crazy and hectic, and at other times, the pace will be a little slower.

My rule? Whatever your focus is at the moment, be present. When work is crazy, work hard to keep up. (This includes final couple of months of competition prep ) Those are the weeks you’ll make a weekly meal plan for the family too so you can shop ahead & know what you’re going to make for the family. When work is slow, catch up on your LOP & enjoy your family time whenever you can, even if you have to schedule “Family time” in. Take time for your partner. Don’t worry about creating “balance” every single day; instead, look for a sense of accomplishment over the long haul.

• Do it when you can. I mean this literally “Whenever Possible.” This for me, includes: When a client cancels, waiting in line, during my warm-up or cool down on the treadmill, on the stairmill, at my son’s basketball practice, at my daughter’s gymnastics class, etc.

• Be brutally honest with yourself about time-wasters.  I’ve talked to so many people who swear they “don’t have time” for something they really want to do, but then I watch them chatting instead of working out; partying instead of prepping their meals or working on their career goals. Of course we all need downtime, but since most people have to be on the computer anyway, it’s easy to fool ourselves that we’re “working” or “networking” when really, we’re spending about five minutes of every hour working and the rest, Tweeting our Instagram self-portrait (BSP) in the bathroom mirror and then engaging in long discussions about others’ BSP. Some multi-tasking makes my day more interesting, and it’s always possible that I’ll stumble across an amazing business idea & get inspired by someone’s quote or update pic while reading my Facebook feed…but at some point it just becomes time wasted. If you constantly feel behind, ask yourself if you really don’t have enough time – or if you’re filling the time you do have with activities that aren’t moving you toward your goals.

• Let work and life blend. I assume you’re competing (or aspire to) for a reason: you want to compete, but you also don’t know how it would be possible. Am I close? We all want to make sure our loved ones (not just kids, friends, family, partners) aren’t getting shorted because of our competition, but in my 4 years of being self-employed & competing, I’ve found that the advice to completely separate work and home is just unrealistic. Instead, I’ve learned to embrace the fact that my work and home lives do blend for much of the day.  That might mean I’m scheduling clients while taking my kids to run errands or checking my email from the playground bench while my eight-year-old plays. It also means that I’m careful to set aside at least 2 hours every night of focused, “totally available” time to devote to home and family. I also get up before the kids get up to do my cardio and/or train clients most days. That way, I feel like my family is getting both “quantity” and “quality” time…and I feel a lot better about the time I spend in the gym and the multi-tasking I sometimes must do.

• Do it your way.  While I have my ways, everyone & family situation is unique. Reading about how other competing parents manage their time and energy can be inspiring, encouraging, and also gives you lots of helpful ideas you might be able to modify for your own life. The key word is modify. We all have different circumstances, goals, and work styles that can affect everything from whether you’re the get-up-at-the-crack-of-dawn-before-kids-or-work, or the burn-the-midnight-oil type, to whether you do best leaving the office or house on a much needed lunch break.  Be flexible, and realize that what works during one season of your life might not work during another. But most of all, get to know yourself: there are lots of ways to be a successful competitor, working (or whatever your juggling) parent, so create the life and career that works for you.

That’s Hardbody!

Alea Suarez

Follow Alea on twitter at @AleaTigress and like her facebook page. You can see her competition photos on Bodybuilding.com. For more information on the Arnold Sports Festival visit www.arnoldsportsfestival.com and use #ASF2013 in all your tweets.

Filed Under: Arnold Classic, Road to The Arnold, TIPS

Bodybuilding.com to Air Free 2013 Arnold Classic Webcast

February 12, 2013 by Hardbody Staff Leave a Comment

Bodybuilding.com will provide free, live coverage of the 2013 Arnold Classic online. Webcast includes stage events, commentary, backstage interviews and more.

Bodybuilding.com To Air Free, Exclusive 2013 Arnold Classic Webcast
Boise, ID – February 7, 2013 – It’s already being called one of the most anticipated events in the history of bodybuilding and fitness. Arnold Schwarzenegger, star of the new film “The Last Stand,” is bringing his annual Arnold Sports Festival back to Columbus, Ohio, the weekend of February 28-March 3, 2013. Under the direction of promoter Jim Lorimer, about 175,000 visitors are expected to see 18,000 athletes compete in more than 45 different sports and events!

For those who can’t make the trip to Columbus, Bodybuilding.com will once again present a series of exclusive LIVE webcasts on Friday and Saturday, covering the Arnold Classic Bodybuilding Championship, along with the Ms. International, Fitness International, Figure International & Bikini International events.

Bodybuilding.com 2013 Arnold Classic Webcast
Don’t miss the FREE 2013 Arnold Classic Webcast, brought to you exclusively by Bodybuilding.com, Cellucor, MusclePharm & Optimum Nutrition!

Returning to call the action are veteran hosts Dan Solomon, IFBB Pro Bodybuilder Bob Cicherillo, and Physique Coach Dr. Layne Norton. Providing insights and commentary for the women’s events will be Fitness Coach & IFBB Fitness Pro Carla Sanchez and the 2011 Ms. Figure Olympia & 2012 Figure International Champion Nicole Wilkins.

All eyes will be on Dexter Jackson as he looks to tie Flex Wheeler’s record of four Arnold Classic Titles. Iris Kyle, Erin Stern and Nicole Nagrani will also return, attempting to re-claim their spot in Arnold’s coveted winner’s circle.

Event Schedule
Presented by Cellucor, Optimum Nutrition and MusclePharm, the webcast coverage begins, exclusively at Bodybuilding.com, on Friday at 7 p.m. ET with the Ms. International, Fitness International and Figure International Finals, preceded 10 minutes prior by commentary on the women’s prejudging rounds from earlier that day. (Video-On-Demand footage from the Friday women’s prejudging events will also be available as soon as feasible.)

On Saturday at 2 p.m. ET, be sure to return to Bodybuilding.com for the exclusive LIVE coverage of the Arnold Classic and Bikini International Prejudging rounds.

Finally, the main event consisting of the Arnold Classic & Bikini International Finals, plus special coverage of the Arnold Strongman Finals, goes live Saturday at 7 p.m. ET, preceded 30 minutes earlier by a special backstage Pre-Show Exclusive. The Post-Show Report from backstage at Veteran’s Memorial Auditorium follows the main event, featuring unique interviews and the presentation of the Arnold Classic Webcast Fan’s Choice Award.

Webcast Start Times
Friday, March 1, 2013, 6:50 p.m. (U.S. Eastern Time)
Women’s Pre-Show and Ms. Int’l, Fitness Int’l & Figure Int’l Finals

Saturday, March 2, 2013, 2:00 p.m. (U.S. Eastern Time)
Arnold Classic & Bikini Int’l Prejudging

Saturday, March 2, 2013, 6:30 p.m. (U.S. Eastern Time)
Men’s Pre-Show and Arnold Classic & Bikini Int’l Finals

To learn more about Bodybuilding.com‘s expanded coverage of this year’s Arnold Sports Festival, visit: http://www.bodybuilding.com/arnold

Bodybuilding.com offers more than 13,000+ health & fitness supplements and accessories to help more than 10 million people every month achieve their health, fitness and appearance goals, as well as more than 35,000 pages of FREE information, including more than 20,000 articles and videos, expert online trainers, and new content added daily!

For more information: http://www.bodybuilding.com.

Filed Under: Arnold Classic, News & Features Tagged With: arnold, webcast

Second Women’s UFC Bout Booked

February 12, 2013 by Hardbody Staff Leave a Comment

Liz Carmouche will face Ronda Rousey this month for the first women’s UFC bout. It’s been wildly publicized and the fight will be not only the first in the UFC but also the headline event for UFC 157. Monday, the second women’s UFC bout was announced between Miesha Tate and Cat Zingano. The two will face off as part of The Ultimate Fighter Finale on April 13, 2013 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Miesha Tate was the Strikeforce bantamweight champion, that was until she met up with the arm-barring Rousey last year. Tate is 13-3 and coming off a win over Julie Kedzie. Cat Zingano is undefeated in her pro career and currently stands at 7-0. Cat is as friendly as the come outside of the cage but you don’t want to meet up with her inside of it. She may not have the big name fights that Tate has but rest assured she will put the former champ to the test.

Cat shared on her facebook fan page, “Time to step it up and achieve my highest good! UFC Zingano vs Tate, April 13 Las Vegas NV.” Follow Cat via twitter @catzingano.

Follow Miesha Tate on twitter @MieshaTate or like her official facebook fan page.

Filed Under: News & Features

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Alea Suarez – 7 Tips To ‘Fitting It All In’

Bodybuilding.com to Air Free 2013 Arnold Classic Webcast

Second Women’s UFC Bout Booked

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