Category you compete in: Figure
Date of birth: 4/29/83
Hometown: Smithtown, NY
Career: Personal Trainer/Manager
Competition history:
Atlantic States 2013
Easterns 2013
Next competition: NPC Universe 2014
What do you feel is the WORST part of contest prep?
If I had to choose what the worst part of contest prep is, it would be time management and finding time to have a social life. With training, cardio, food prep, everyday responsibilities, and a full time job I tend to feel isolated from those who are closest to me. I do my best to balance everything in the day, but contest prep becomes very time consuming and mentally challenging at times. As a personal trainer my work hours are not consistent due to training around clients schedules. During this time getting enough rest also seems to be an issue.
Would you please tell us a little about your workout schedule?
During contest prep I wake up around 4:30-5am and do fasted cardio. I usually train mid-day or at night and follow that up with a second cardio session. I train 5-6 days per week and do cardio 6 days per week.
My recent contest prep I trained each body part twice a week. I incorporated different training techniques such as compound sets, supersets, and one of my favorite being drop/strip sets. I rest between 30-60 seconds max when I train unless I am training with someone. I like to keep a fast pace and stay on task.
Monday /Thursday – Legs
Tuesday/Friday – Back
Wednesday/Saturday –Shoulders/Arms
My cardio consists of speed intervals on the Stairmaster, or incline walking on the treadmill.
During my training I will pose or add in plyos between sets to keep my heart rate up and feel the muscles I am working.
Off season I will do plyo work once a week and cardio 3-4 times a week.
If you had to lose one of your 5 senses, which one would you prefer to lose and why?
If I had to lose one of my five senses I would choose smell. I am very sensitive to certain smells. I get disgusted easily therefore losing this sense may not be too big of a deal for me.
If you could change one thing about this sport what would it be?
If I could change one thing about this sport it would be clearer judging criteria for the figure division. I feel that from show to show the look of each winner varies. I would love to see a more consistent look amongst winners from the amateur to the national level.
If you had a time capsule what would you put inside it and why?
If I had a time capsule I would put pictures and objects that remind me of my favorite memories. I would put these moments inside to not only remember those good times but to also see how my life have changed and progressed.
What is your favorite vacation spot?
My favorite vacation spot is Cabo, Mexico. I love the atmosphere and friendliness. Anywhere that is hot and tropical will most likely do it for me.
What advice do you have for women who would like to get involved in and compete in the sport of bodybuilding?
My advice for those women interested in getting involved in the sport of bodybuilding would be to communicate with as many female competitors as possible and try to get different perspectives about the sport. Things to inquire about would be; the process of getting ready for a competition, the commitment that is required, the mental demand, time management, and financial demands. I would also advise these individuals to not rush into the sport. Find someone you trust who can mentor you and help lead you to your goal in the healthiest way possible.
What is a day-in-the-life of Lauren like?
Wake up, do cardio, go to work, train during my break, go back to work, cook my meal and take care of daily chores.
Favorite Motivational Quote:
Be the best you!
In closing, who would you like to give a shout out to?
I would like to shout out all of those who have believed in me and supported me. I would like to thank all of the positive people in my life that have pushed me to become better and stronger. My boyfriend has been my biggest fan and motivator. I wouldn’t be at this level without his intense passion for the sport as well.
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