DEBBIE BRAMWELL...THE FIGHTER!
Over the years Debbie Bramwell has become something of an ‘A Lister' in the world of female bodybuilding. Always a fan favorite, her name is immediately recognizable on the competition circuit. Having just recently competed in the Tampa Pro she is now preparing to do battle once again at the Europa in Hartford this weekend. I managed to catch up with Debbie as she entered the final countdown to the show and gather a few thoughts and memories from her years in the sport and also a few personal reflections about how the bodybuilding world has impacted her life......
So Debbie, you have certainly become a fan favorite over the years, I have to ask how long is it since you first entered into the sport?
"I did my first show in 1997 when I was 31, and then in 2002 I got talked into doing my first national show. I really didn't have this goal or desire to be a bodybuilder when I first started but competed as a personal goal to get in shape and to set and achieve goals for myself. When I did my first national show and placed top 5(won all shows in California) then I decided I wanted to be a bodybuilder! I turned pro in 2007.I have done a total of 28 shows including one Ms Olympia and just learned I am ranked 16th in the world. I love to compete!"
How do you feel about the sport today as opposed to back then?
"I love the sport of bodybuilding. I have met many wonderful people and have had a great journey on and off stage. I do wish the women's side of the sport was more popular though. Over the years the female bodybuilders have been given less exposure and support and I would love to see this change."
In terms of changes you have seen, which ones have you welcomed and which ones are you not so happy about?
"A lot has changed since I started competing. I love that they added new rounds for women to get involved and set personal goals. Now the women have bodybuilding, fitness, figure, bikini and women's physique to compete in. I don't like that the women bodybuilders are getting less opportunity to compete. - for example, we got pulled from the NY Pro show. I'm sure you have heard the rumors about the future of women's bodybuilding. We have to wait and see what happens."
When it comes to your personal life a lot has changed to...so how is married life treating you?
"I met my husband in Vegas at a bodybuilding show, then we dated long distance and once we knew we wanted a future together, I moved from San Diego to Alabama and we later got married. I love being married and it does get better with time!"
What do you think is different about the Debbie Bramwell of today versus the fresh new competitor?
"I have competed for 14 years. I have grown so much in many ways, both on and off stage. I have learned a lot about my body and with all the experience you learn to deal well with prep (and life!) Prep has become easier for me over the years and I don't suffer like I used to. Partly because I stay in shape off season, I'm used to it and I am just a way happier person so everything is easier! I never get nervous at a show; I have a great mindset which is so important. And after all, the point is all about enjoying the experience and having fun!"
If you could meet yourself before your very first show as the person you are today, what words of advice/support would you give her?
"I would tell any new competitor to do it for the right reasons. It is a personal goal to improve and be your best. I never compare myself to anyone or even think about anyone else but myself because that's all I can control. I would tell them to enjoy the process/journey. Be open to learning everything you can about your body, nutrition and training. I would advise someone to get a mentor, if you want to be good at something go to someone who has done it. I also tell people to read personal growth books to train their mind to have the right positive mindset. I am big on studying the power of the mind. I would also remind them that the best reward is offstage not what happens at the show (you never know what the judges will do that day) And most importantly make this journey bigger then yourself and help others along the way. I always want for others what I want for myself and that is to be my best!"
You recently competed in the Tampa Pro...how was that experience for you?
"First I would like to say Tim Gardner puts on a great show and treats the athletes very well. I appreciate him and love competing in his show. I was not happy with the judging at the show (very confusing, but this is a whole different topic, lol) I thought I should of placed higher along with others. That being said, I was not 100% happy with how I turned out. It was my new coach (Mike Davies) first time prepping me so he is still learning my body. I looked better leading up to the show than I did onstage. I should have been a lot dryer but held some water that day. I would like to give a special shout out to David and Tara Hollingsworth for coming with me to the show and taking good care of me while I was there... and for believing in me!"
Anything you learned from that show that you are taking with you into the Hartford competition?
"As I stated it was Mikes first time prepping me. He has a different plan for me leading into this next show. I have to come in shredded, hard and dry with my structure to do well."
What have you been working the hardest on in terms of your development this past year?
"I have been working on improving my back , it's so stubborn, lol! I don't want to be any bigger , just better! I also have been training very differently. Mike preaches to his athletes "don't just look fit... be fit" Being healthy and fit is very important to me. If you can hang during Mikes boot camp and workouts then you are on the right track!! His approach is high intensity/high volume. My workouts are anywhere from 35 to 45 minutes max."
What strategies have you been employing?
"Mike has been in charge of my offseason diet and workouts since last August. I have incorporated a lot of new exercises into my program and have been trying to attack the areas that need to improve. I was also my leanest this off season. I ate 7 to 8 meals a day and did high intensity cardio versus the low intensity that I had been doing."
Away from the stage for a moment, what do you like most about your life as a bodybuilder at this point in time?
"I feel great , love to train and love to inspire /help other people. I am 45 and in the best shape of my life!"
Do you have a time frame for your competitive career?
" I mentioned that I am 45 but feel so young! I really don't know how long I will compete. I always will work out and stay in top shape but the rest remains to be seen."
What do you see yourself doing when you retire from the stage...I am sure you are still going to be involved in the sport in some way, right?
" I do see myself involved, but I'm not sure in what way yet. I do love to help other people with their goals . My husband and I talked about having a little one so if that happens he/she will be taking up my time."
Do you offer training and diet services and if so how can people get to work with you?
My email is [email protected] website is debbie-bramwell.com I love to help others with their goals.
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