Monique Cormier, who has overcome obesity and severe depression en route to becoming a world class amateur bodybuilder, joins Dave [ ... ]
Spotlight On: Natalie Waples
Category you compete in: IFBB Figure Pro
Date of birth: October 31st (Halloween!!)
Hometown: Espanola, Ontario, Canada
Career: IFBB Figure Pro, Fitness Model, Competition Preparation Consultant and full time Human Resources Specialist for the Canadian Federal Government
What is your favorite contest prep recipe? Oatmeal pancakes! 1 cup egg whites, cinnamon, vanilla extract, 1/3 cup oats - blend and then pour over a hot skillet for 3 minutes per side and top with ½ cup strawberries.
What part of your physique are you currently working on? Leg conditioning - I have a very lean upper body and torso so trying to balance out by lower body is a challenge. I have also been working on bringing my back and shoulder size up all winter.
Name one piece of nutrition/fitness advice that has stuck with you - I drink a ton of water. It helps me feel fuller, more energized and helps me keep my skin clear. It is such an easy thing to do, but so commonly overlooked! Also I sweat everyday - whether it be cardiovascular, weights, yoga or kickboxing, I always do something active.
If you could compete in one other event (FBB, physique, figure, fitness, bikini) which would it be and why? I competed in IFBB Pro Bikini last year because I had a stress fracture in my foot and could not properly prepare for Figure. Competing in Pro Bikini really helped me work on my stage presentation and ‘swagger' so now that I'm healed up and back in Figure, the presentation round is a cinch! I love Figure and can't say that I'd switch!
Why IFBB: I competed with the Ontario Physique Association and Canadian Bodybuilding Federation as an amateur as I had hopes of winning my IFBB Pro Card (which I did at the 2008 IFBB North American Figure Championships). Figure is a sport and the IFBB embodies that notion for me - I love competing on an international platform at the largest fitness events in the world!
What do you like best about competing? I am very goal oriented so picking that date on the calendar and watching my physique transform is hugely motivating. I have also made several great friends on the IFBB circuit and in the industry in general, and have had the opportunity to travel the world. I love getting on stage and showcasing my hard work - becoming part of this industry has been such a blessing.
What are your goals for the future? In the near future, I hope to qualify for the 2011 Figure Olympia and will also put in an application for the 2012 Ms Figure International. I would also like to continue expanding my competition preparation consulting business in Canada and the US.
Competition history: Highlights include: 2010 IFBB Border States Pro Figure, 7th, 2010 IFBB Europa Dallas Pro Bikini 8th, 2010 IFBB Europa Connecticut Pro Bikini, 9th, 2008 IFBB North American Figure Championships Overall Winner (earned Pro Card), 2008 Arnold Amateur Figure Championships --Winner, 2007 CBBF Canadian National Overall Figure Champion and representative for Team Canada in Spain at the 2007 IFBB Amateur World Figure Championships.
Next competition: Optimum Classic Pro Figure, May 21, California Pro Figure, May 28, Toronto Pro Super Show June 17-18
Hobbies: Yoga, running outdoors, going to the movies, hanging out with my adorable dogs!
What is the biggest lesson you have learned over the years when it comes to competing? I would say two things jump out at me when asked this question. Number 1 - never take the judging personally. Each show is highly subjective, with different judges and EVERYONE has their own opinion. Number 2 - you are only competing against yourself. Working on your strengths and minimizing your weaknesses is the only thing that will propel you forward in Figure, so blaming the judges or other competitors for your placing is a waste of time. If you want to improve, have a good look in the mirror and be objective about what you need to work on.
What is your favorite contest prep supplement? Nutrabolics Hemodrene for Her as well as Nutrabolics Isobolic Whey Protein Isolate in Cinnamon Oatmeal - yum!!!
Favorite Quote: "Ability is what you're capable of doing. Motivation determines what you do. Attitude determines how well you do it."
Natalie Waples
IFBB Figure Pro
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