Monique Cormier, who has overcome obesity and severe depression en route to becoming a world class amateur bodybuilder, joins Dave [ ... ]
Spotlight On IFBB Bikini Pro: Ashley Kaltwasser
Category you compete in: IFBB Pro Bikini
Date of birth: 11-22-1988
Hometown: Akron, Ohio
Career: Bartender/IFBB Bikini Pro
If you could change into a superhero for a day who would you be and why?
The Flash! I could run my errands faster…lol
What made you begin dedicating your lifestyle to this sport?
My high school track coach competed in figure. I really liked the way she looked, but didn’t carry the kind of muscle required for figure. I have always been an extremely athletic person, and ran track from elementary school through college. I looked into the sport of physique competitions more and discovered the Bikini Division. This division fit my body type better. I begin training and dieting and became fascinated with how the body reacts to training and diet changes. I have met so many great people along the way and I get to travel and see new places that I otherwise would not have gone to. I am an extremely competitive person and each competition brings a new goal.
What approach do you take to dieting...carb cycle..keto?
I consistently eat 6 clean meals a day along with drinking two gallons of water. I don’t necessarily cycle my carbs unless I need to. Consistency is key. I don’t believe in extremely restrictive diets, and the variety in my diet keeps me from getting bored. Most importantly, I only have foods in my diet that I enjoy (that means no fish for me…yuck!). Contest prep is NOT supposed to be miserable! I enjoy what I do in every aspect. Why compete if you do not enjoy it? I also have an off meal about once a week.
What do you think is the biggest misconception people have about competing?
That we don’t eat tasty foods, that we are miserable and that we don’t have lives. This is totally untrue! I enjoy all of my meals and I am quite a happy person, especially during contest season. I love competing and wouldn’t trade this opportunity for anything.
What is your most embarrassing childhood memory?
While arguing with a classmate on the playground in the 4th grade, I began to walk away from the situation and slipped on a big pile of dog poo-poo and fell into it! It was horrific but at least I can laugh about it now!
What is the biggest lesson you have learned about YOURSELF during your contest prep?
Meeting you own personal fitness goals and accomplishments is much more rewarding than a trophy. Your body is your trophy!
I am Focused, determined, driven, motivated, excited, anxious to step on stage!
Who do you look up and admire and why?
My coach, Summer Montabone- A former IFBB Fitness Pro. She is why I am where I am today. She has given me a lot of guidance in this industry and continues to help me throughout my career. She is such a smart and savvy business woman who’s been in this industry for a while. She really knows her stuff!
Competition history:
2013 Pittsburgh Pro Bikini- 2nd
2013 Europa Orlando Bikini- 2nd
2013 Arnold Bikini International- 10th
2012 Houston Pro Bikini- 5th
2012 Team Universe- 1st and Overall
2012 Jr. Nationals- 6th
2012 Arnold Amateur Bikini- 1st and Overall
2011 Nationals- 7th
2011 Natural Northern USA- 1st and Overall
2011 Elite Physique Bikini- 1st and Overall
Next competition:
2013 IFBB Powerhouse Classic Pro in Detroit Michigan to be held on May 11th, 2013
Favorite Motivational Quote:
“Never underestimate the power of a good attitude.”
Who would you like to thank? My management team FMG (Fitness Management Group), My coach Summer Montabone of Team VIP, and my sponsor Liquid Sun Rayz.
Subscribe to RxMuscle on Youtube