Page 64 - Demo

MOSTMAGAZINEQ: OF ALL YOUR PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENTS, WHICH ONE ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF, AND WHY? A: I love competition day%u2014the energy, the excitement of getting ready, and the backstage chatter with friends I%u2019ve met along the way.But the moment I%u2019m most proud of wasn%u2019t a personal win. It was when Autumn Cleveland qualified for the Olympia at the Arizona Pro. I had already stepped off stage, but I was right behind the curtain, waiting for her name to be called. We have a special bond and always seek each other out at shows. We don%u2019t compete against each other%u2014we compete with each other. Watching her earn her Olympia spot after all her hard work was just incredible. Q: HOW DO YOU BALANCE BEING A SINGLE MOM, RUNNING A GYM, AND COMPETING AT SUCH A HIGH LEVEL? A: It definitely has its challenges. I%u2019m Type A when it comes to schedules, so I make sure I get my cardio, workouts, and meal prep done%u2014being prepared is key. Q: YOUR GOALS FOR 2025 ARE AMBITIOUS! WHAT STEPS ARE YOU TAKING TO QUALIFY FOR MASTERS OLYMPIA AND PLACE IN THE TOP 5 OF OPEN SHOWS? A: Last year, my feedback was to bring out more quad lines, improve my back depth, and get even leaner. So, I started my cut the week of Christmas. I%u2019m checking all the boxes%u2014some days are harder than others, but I have a goal, and I%u2019m going to achieve it.Q: WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR MOMS OR WOMEN WHO DREAM OF COMPETING BUT FEEL LIKE IT%u2019S TOO LATE TO START? A: I definitely thought I was starting late, but as we age, we actually have more mature muscle than we realize. Plus, if you take the right steps to preserve it, you don%u2019t lose it as quickly.That%u2019s why Masters divisions exist! I%u2019ve seen competitors in their 60s and 70s still stepping on stage, proving just how resilient and capable our bodies are. If you%u2019re passionate about competing%u2014go for it! The worst that can happen? You walk away with a small trophy. But the best thing? You gain a healthier lifestyle and, for me, the motivation to set an example for my kids. That%u2019s what matters most. @STEPHANIEKAY_IFBB64 MOST MAGAZINE - ISSUE 77