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74 || MOST FITNESS || MAY 2016www.shannonpetralito.comREADERSSPOTLIGHTWBFF Pro Figure World Champion 2015, Miss Figure Universe 2011, Miss Figure New England 2010By Darcy TharpHometown: Plymouth, MA Height: 5%u20195%u201dHair: Brown Eyes: HazelFitness Credentials: WBFF Pro Figure World Champion 2015, Miss Figure Universe 2011, Miss Figure New England 2010MFM: How did you get started in the fitness field?SP: For me, my fitness journey really started after my son was born in 2004! I was mainly a cardio girl prior to that and spent most of my weekends going to clubs dancing the nights away! After I had my son, I was pretty much told that my body would never look the same. Well, that%u2019s all I needed to hear; tell me I can%u2019t, and I will. I decided to challenge myself to not only get fit and healthy, but to enter my first figure competition in 2009. That very decision has led me to where I am today, living my passion of health and fitness and sharing it with others so that they can do the same!MFM: What made you motivated to get into competitions?SP: Once you get pregnant and have a child your body goes through some pretty crazy and amazing changes! I am all about a challenge, so I was driven to get in the best shape of my life post baby. That was my motivation!MFM: What is your nutrition philosophy?SP: My philosophy has always been a healthy and balanced approach to nutrition. It is extremely important to fuel your body with healthy, clean foods! Deprivation from food groups for extended periods of time is not healthy, unless you medically need to do so. A well-balanced diet filled with healthy, clean foods will increase energy levels and improve cellular function. As an added bonus, your skin and hair will benefit too!Photo Credit: Pedro Blanco Photographywww.pedroblancophotography.com