Monique Cormier, who has overcome obesity and severe depression en route to becoming a world class amateur bodybuilder, joins Dave [ ... ]
Spotlight On NPC Womens Physique Competitor: Ariel Humphrey
Category you compete in: NPC Womens Physique
Date of birth: 3/25/1989
Hometown: Fremont, MI
Career: Currently a gym club manager and personal trainer. My college degree is in Psychology and I would eventually like to head back into psych/social work field. Usually, that requires more schooling…not ready for that yet!
What is your favorite childhood memory? Both of my parents have passed away; my father when I was seven and mother when I was 14, so my favorite memories all revolve around experiences with them. My favorite memory of my father is not necessarily a experience or event but the feeling of safety and comfort of being near him while he was working (he was an artist). He would be painting, sculpting, or building something while I played with toys or drew pictures. My mother and I went on a trip to Brazil together when I was about 10 years old, which has since instilled a free spirit and travel itch in me. I’ve been very lucky to travel outside the country many times since.
Name a song that motivates you.
My first bodybuilding routine song was to Kevin Rudolf “Let it Rock” This songs always gives me chills and reminds me of what fun competing is.
What is your biggest gym pet peeve?
I really am pretty easy going… Not to many things bother me in the gym. If any thing I just get a good laugh out of someone doing something stupid.
How do you like to reward yourself?
It usually is justifying a large electronic purchase and 99% of the time it is a fitness related purchase! Music player, head phones, heart rate monitor, etc.
If you could change one things about the world what would it be?
I really wish that people could do a better job loving one another. That includes race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, gender (list not totally inclusive). Everyone deserves the same respect. If this could be changed, and we saw every person for exactly who they truly are, an individual, fellow human being, there would be much less hatred and violence.
What do you do right before you step onstage?
I visualize going through all the motions, all mandatory poses. I 
walk through my entire routine over and over. I also pause a moment to reflect on how far I’ve come and how grateful I am for people who have supported me throughout the journey, whether they are with me at the show or elsewhere.
Nook, Book or Kindle?
I don’t read much, I prefer to listen to my materials. However, I do enjoy a good paper book. It is something about physically flipping a page and seeing how much is left that is satisfying.
Competition history:
NPC Warrior Classic: Loveland, CO August 18th, 2012
NPC Rocky Mountain: Denver, CO Nov 16th, 2011
NPC Grand Rapids: Grandville, MI May 21st, 2011
Next competition:
Gary Udit’s North American Championships August 31st, 2012 in Pittsburgh
If someone followed you for the day what would they be most surprised about?
They would be surprised how much of my day revolves around fitness. Wake up, cardio, work at the gym, lift, cardio, go back to work at gym, cardio, go home. LOVE IT!!
What is your preferred tanning product and why?
I am still a “new” competitor and have not tried very many products or compa
nies. I am looking forward to using different products until I find one that fills my needs best!
Who would you like to thank?
All the people who helped “raise” me after my parents passed away. Sally Lamb who introduced me to bodybuilding and helped me with my very first competition. Matthew & Coleen Boulter for befriending me at my second bodybuilding show and then getting me a job. My coach Dave Palumbo for his friendship, amazing support and guidance. Lastly, all my friends, Level 7 Fitness members, and fans! All the support and kind words have made my contest prep possible!
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