*COVER STORY*
FULL-BODIED BIKINI
IPL CHAMPION SAMANTHA ENGLAND
“Focus more on fueling your body, being strong and strength training, rather than how little you can eat. And the changes will come!”
How did you get started in competitions?
I got started in competitions when I was 16. I started competing after watching my my mom become a pro competitor after 3 kids. Then after having my son, my passion for competing was reignited.
What motivates me is having a goal date to compete and attempting to beat myself every competition. Including growing and making noticeable changes during off-season.
DESCRIBE YOUR TYPICAL TRAINING REGIMEN AND DIET LEADING UP TO A COMPETITION?
Typically, my diet leading up to a competition is pretty high protein. Moderate carbs and always a source of fat at the end of the day. Cardio 6 days a week. Including at least two HIIT cardio sessions and weight lifting 5-6 days per week.
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It seems no matter how lean I get or how "fit" I get for a show, I'm not completely satisfied and I always feel I need to be better.
What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in your journey as a competitor?
I think the biggest challenge I face is after show and finding a balance in life and prep. Being in prep mode and striving with a routine…then life happens and seeing lines disappear that you worked so hard for is by far the hardest thing I’ve had to find balance with.
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YOU TRULY HAVE TO LEARN TO LOVE YOUR BODY AT ALL STAGES. EVEN WHEN YOUR NOT SUPER LEAN, JUST KNOW THAT YOU CAN GET THERE AGAIN.
How do you stay mentally focused and positive during intense training or pre-competition phases?
I try to stay positive knowing that I’m preparing for a date. Measuring progress by taking weekly pictures really helps me to stay focused, knowing that changes are happening.
Who or what inspires you today in your fitness journey?
My mom inspires me. Her being a mom of three and receiving her pro card at 43 was super admirable to me. As well as my son. Living a healthy lifestyle, not only sets an example, but also has such a positive impact on mental health as well as physical health.
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Focus more on fueling your body, being strong and strength training, rather than how little you can eat. And the changes will come!
How do you balance the pressure to achieve a certain physique with maintaining a positive body image and self-confidence?
I love this question because it’s always been a struggle for me. It seems no matter how lean I get or how “fit” I get for a show, I’m not completely satisfied and I always feel I need to be better. After watching my body change from lean to not stage ready and then back to lean…You truly have to learn to love your body at all stages. And even when your are not super lean you CAN get there again. All of that muscle you worked hard for is still there. Your off-season doesn’t define you.
What advice do you have for individuals struggling with body image issues?
My advice would be set a routine, trust the progress, give yourself leniency and celebrate the small changes. Focus more on fueling your body, being strong and strength training, rather than how little you can eat. And the changes will come! GAINZ
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