Heather Brice Earns First IPL Pro Evening Gown Title
At the April 2024 9th Annual IPL Arizona Championship in Phoenix, Heather Brice made a significant mark, clinching her first IPL Pro Evening Gown Masters title. As she steps into the spotlight, Heather brings a blend of elegance, confidence, and sophistication to the stage, setting a high bar for the Pro Evening Gown division. In this exclusive interview, Heather shares her journey, insights on competing at the professional level, and her aspirations for the future.
“MY TRAINING PREP WAS ADJUSTED BEFORE THIS EVENT…TO CONTINUE BUILDING WITHOUT GETTING TOO LEAN.”
NATURALMAG: Congratulations on winning your first Pro Evening Gown title at the IPL Arizona Championship! How did it feel to achieve this milestone in your career?
HEATHER BRICE: Winning my first Pro title felt amazing! I especially loved the pose off.
NMI: What was your preparation like leading up to your Pro Debut in Masters Evening Gown? Did you approach training or presentation differently compared to your other divisions?
HB: My training prep was adjusted before this event because my coaches had me carb-load once a week to continue building without getting too lean. Sets were modified, a focus on shoulder growth was enhanced, and cardio was less intense than it was leading to the last October show in Destin.
“…I’M FOCUSED ON IMPROVING MY PHYSIQUE, DISCIPLINE, AND POSING ABILITIES...IT’S BEEN INSPIRING TO HAVE PRO EXPERIENCE UNDER MY BELT…”
NMI: Winning a Pro title is a significant achievement. How has this victory impacted your outlook on future competitions and your overall career in physique competition?
HB: It was really exciting winning my first Pro title. I am really looking forward to going head-to-head with my Dear Coach and Arbonne Sister La’net Spence. I hope to have other amazing ladies on stage with us! I love how the IPL celebrates us as athletes and individuals.
NMI: You’ve competed at both amateur and professional levels. What are some key differences you’ve noticed, and how have you adjusted your approach as you transitioned into the Pro circuit?
HB: I feel there isn’t too much of a difference in my approach. I’m focused on improving my physique, discipline, and posing abilities, and not so much on the other competitors. It’s been inspiring to have pro experience under my belt as we head into this event in Fairbanks with so many athletes who have not competed in the IPL before. They are looking up to me, which feels good since I’m a relative newcomer to the sport. I’m leaning in and loving helping to give them my perspective on the posing differences of IPL and what they’re accustomed to.
“THIS IS SUCH A FANTASTIC DIVISION! I AIM TO BRING AN AIR OF SOPHISTICATION, GRACE, CONFIDENCE, AND FEMININITY TO THE STAGE.”
NMI: IPL Evening Gown is known for its elegance and style. How do you personally interpret and embody these qualities on stage, and what do you believe sets your presentation apart?
HB: This is such a fantastic division! Getting dressed up is something we get to do in Alaska infrequently. Just the simple act of wearing a gown and heels feels elegant and stylish to me. It was challenging to get the hang of heels. But just like in the gym, with the perfect music playing (and lots of practice), I can get into the vibration of grace and elegance. I aim to bring an air of sophistication, grace, confidence, and femininity to the stage.
NMI: What advice would you give to someone looking to excel in the IPL Evening Gown division? Are there specific tips or strategies that have worked well for you?
HB: Practice makes perfect. It sounds cliche, but it works. Watch videos of other Evening Gown recordings, watch pageants, watch posing coach tutorials or IG, and record yourself to see which poses complement your physique the best. Find music that instills confidence and makes you feel amazing!
"I WANT TO GET ANOTHER PRO CARD OR TWO. AND, OF COURSE, MY STRETCH GOAL IS TO MAINTAIN MY TITLE IN THE PRO EVENING GOWN DIVISION."
NMI: Reflecting on your journey so far, what have been some of the most memorable moments or achievements in your competition career aside from winning your Pro Evening Gown title?
HB: It’s been lovely hearing how my fitness journey has inspired people I had no idea were watching my progress and story. I love traveling and getting to know my teammates and other athletes off-stage. Much like my Ice Art and business, I am in love with the process. In both competitions I’ve competed in our team rented a house to stayed together. We cooked, did our purge workout, prep, did makeup and hair together, and after, had great conversations around the pool, silly games, a celebratory dinner, or early morning reflections. I’ve taken this idea to our ice carving classes recently, and it brings such a camaraderie element that is so special.
NMI: Looking ahead, what are your goals within the IPL and beyond? Are there particular divisions or competitions you’re aiming for next or any new challenges you’re eager to tackle?
HB: I am focused on the IPL event this September here in my hometown, the Golden Heart Classic. I want to improve my performance and routine in Bodybuilding and Figure. I want to get another Pro Card or two. And, of course, my stretch goal is to maintain my title in the Pro Evening Gown division. NMI
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“Find a way to make someone’s day.”
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“To strive for perfection in art with ice sculpting and working to build my physique in the best shape I can, are an ultimate challenge for me. To improve myself, my skills, and my discipline. There is always room for improvement in both.”
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