Monique Cormier, who has overcome obesity and severe depression en route to becoming a world class amateur bodybuilder, joins Dave [ ... ]
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Spotlight On IFBB Womens Physique Pro: Tiani Norman
Category you compete in: WOMENS PHYSIQUE
Date of birth: AUGUST 13
Hometown: DENVILLE, NJ
Career: FITNESS & NUTRITION COACH; Master Trainer with Octane Fitness
Competition history:
2007: NPC Mid Atlantic Natural 2nd Place Figure C
NPC NJ State 2nd Place Figure C
2008: NPC NJ State & Suburban 1st Place Figure C & Overall
2009: NPC Junior Nationals
NPC Northeast Grand Prix 1st Place Figure C
2010: NPC Team Universe 13th Place Figure E
IFBB North Americans 5th Place Figure E
NPC Nationals 13th Place Figure E
2011: NPC Team Universe Figure E
2012: NPC Team Universe Womens Physique Class C 2nd Place & IFBB Pro Card
Next competition: TAMPA PRO SHOW Aug. 11, 2012
In your opinion, how important is motivation and confidence when aiming to accomplish a goal?
Motivation is the driving force behind reaching a goal, so I find it necessary. If you’re not motivated, there’s nothing pushing you to reach past your comfort zone. Confidence in your ability to accomplish your goal is key. The combination leads to success!
In your eyes, what combination of hard work and natural ability is needed to reach the top?
I do believe hard work supersedes everything in life, however, natural ability in this sport determines the level of success, to a point. Genetics play an important role, and without them, all the hard work may not lead to top placings. This is.jpeg)
why I think everyone needs to set goals they can be proud of, with or without a top award.
What are some motivational strategies that have or currently work for you?
This past year has been the most challenging & rewarding for me! I shattered my foot and the ligament tore the bone from the joint, last August. I was in a cast and on bedrest for 12 weeks! I also underwent 3 surgical procedures and continue to receive injections into ligaments that have shredded. I hit a very low point and lost all motivation and drive. It wasn’t until I was able to start moving around in a walking boot that I started to feel some hope again. I decided I would not let the foot hold me back from hitting the stage and vowed to compete this year. The doctors thought I was crazy, and said it would be 12-18 months before I could get back to that level of exercise. That alone drove me. Whenever someone tells me I can’t do something, a fire ignites in me and there is no holding back! Under constant medical supervision, I began my battle to the stage, signed on with PJ Braun as my coach and hit the gym every day until I walked out onto the Team Universe stage and won my IFBB Pro Card!
Give me some examples from your life where confidence has helped you to achieve?
Every time I step on stage, confidence leads me. I also believe it carries into everyday life. I wouldn’t be successful in my career without being confident in my knowledge & ability to help transform peoples lives through fitness & nutrition.
What do you find the most challenging about competing?
This is a very subjective sport, and I am extremely competitive in nature, so the most challenging part for me is presenting a physique that the judges will reward. Criticism and rejection come with the territory, so I’ve developed some very thick skin!
What are your top 5 key strategies for success?
This one made me think! I’ve never labeled my “key strategies for success,” so here goes:
I’m driven and never quit, no matter what. I’m an all or nothing type of person, so when I commit to something, I give 110% of myself.
I’m a fighter, so I will not bow out gracefully. I will get back up after being knocked down…EVERY SINGLE TIME!
I am trustworthy, loyal and honest.
What is your favorite protein powder? Why do you like it?
Without a doubt, it’s Isolyze by Species Nutrition. It tastes great, is lactose free (so no bloat), it mixes easily and there are no sugars or carbs. How can you beat that?!
Favorite Inspirational Quote:
I don’t have a favorite quote. There are too many
out there that motivate me! One example is: It won’t be easy, but it will be worth it! (I use this quote on my business cards).
In closing, Who would you like to give a shout out to?
I want to thank Species Nutrition for always supporting me and providing the best supplements on the market! I would not be where I am today without the help of Braunfitness Guru, PJ Braun! He has brought me to my personal best and beyond:) I also would like to thank my husband, Rob for putting up with me throughout all the years. Thanks to all my friends and supporters!
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