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Q: How did you get started in fitness?From a young age I was always active in sports from playing softball, soccer, lacrosse, track, rugby, and then required to maintain a level of physical aptitude while in the military. I always admired the dedication that went into the sport of bodybuilding but for almost 10 years allowed my inner voice to self-sabotage my desire to try and compete. Finally, in early 2021 I decided to commit to the sport at 44 years young, hired a coach, and started my journey as a master%u2019s bikini competitor, taking first place in my age category at a national level show by November 2022. Since then, I haven%u2019t looked back, earned my personal training certification, and am now working as a part time group fitness coach with the amazing F45 Training Rita Ranch in Tucson, Arizona, and am less than 3 months away from graduating with a Master of Science in Clinical Nutrition.Q: What%u2019s the best fitness advice that you%u2019ve ever received?To enjoy and fit what works into your lifestyle%u2026and to keep your body moving. Whether it%u2019s hiking, swimming, weightlifting, dancing, or any other activity, finding something you genuinely enjoy can make it easier to stick with your fitness goals in the long term. Also, to think about your %u201cwhy%u201d when it comes to fitness. For me, I%u2019m motivated by health and performance goals, but ultimately consistency/dedication is key to maintaining a fitness routine; motivation will only take you so far.Q: Do you have a nutrition philosophy?I believe in practicing moderation and portion control, prioritizing whole, minimally processed foods over highly processed and refined products, and mindful eating by paying attention to hunger and fullness cues and savoring food. Ultimately, I think the best philosophy is one that is flexible, sustainable, and promotes overall health and well-being while aligning with individual preferences and values. Q: How do you stay motivated to stay on track?I honestly start with visualizing my end-state and the feeling of excitement or accomplishment %u2026 whether it%u2019s an aesthetic goal for example for bodybuilding or a performance related such as executing a specific number of unassisted bodyweight pullups or leg-pressing a specific weight. Q: What%u2019s your favorite cheat meal? First, I personally don%u2019t use the term %u201ccheat meal%u201d as it sounds or appears to be associated with something bad or dishonest. I prefer the term %u201ctreat%u201d as it helps with the psychological effect. When I do plan my treats, I prefer to eat a slice of thin and crispy cheese pizza or indulge in some chocolate mousse or flourless chocolate cake.Q: What are you passionate about? I%u2019m passionate about service and the opportunity to make a positive impact on people%u2019s lives %u2026. whether that%u2019s serving my country with over 22 years of military service, being a part time group fitness coach with F45 Training Rita Ranch, and/or shortly launching my own nutrition practice focused on cardio- vascular health and empowering future clients by providing an integrative and personalized food-first approach to improving their health through nutrition.Monica Gupta-Abram / Exclusive Interview38 MOST MAGAZINE - ISSUE 43