Cover Story: Time To Unwind With 13X IPL Pro Champion Lesley Beck
Lesley Beck is no stranger to dominating the stage—having clinched 13 IPL Pro titles, she’s earned a reputation as one of the fiercest competitors in the game. But behind the scenes, Lesley is a woman of simplicity and routine. From indulging in true crime documentaries to enjoying quiet date nights with her husband, she knows how to unwind after a victory. In this exclusive interview, we dive into Lesley’s journey from introverted gym-goer to stage-slaying champion, her thoughts on the secret to success, and her refreshingly honest approach to balancing ambition with enjoying life. Ready for 2025, Lesley’s got big plans—and they’re all about loving the sport, not just winning.
Photos by Ben Yosef
I do think some people have natural-born talent that contributes to their success, but I’ve never felt that I fall into that category.
VIGOROUS MAGAZINE: Lesley, you’re a 13-time IPL Pro Champion. What’s the secret to your incredible success? Is it all hard work or a little bit of natural talent…and maybe a touch of magic?
LESLEY BECK: When it comes to success, I really don’t think there is anything magical behind it. Ok, maybe a little bit of luck, but it’s mostly hard work and mindset without a doubt. I do think some people have natural-born talent that contributes to their success, but I’ve never felt that I fall into that category.
VM: When you’re not dominating the IPL, how do you unwind? Do you have any guilty pleasures, or do you prefer to stay active and keep the energy flowing?
LB: Definitely just vegging out in front of the tv watching true crime documentaries or sports. On Saturdays I take a rest day from the gym and have a nice date night with my husband.
I was certainly (and very much still am) an introvert and I’m sure it surprised many to see me rocking a bikini on stage!
VM: You’re known for being fierce on stage, but how would you describe your off-stage persona? Who is Lesley Beck when the competition is over?
LB: I definitely live a pretty boring life, and I’m perfectly ok with that! I love having a routine and not deviating much from that.
VM: Any hidden hobbies or talents that would shock your fans?
LB: None! I think what is shocking for most people that have known me prior to competing is what I am doing now. I was certainly (and very much still am) an introvert and I’m sure it surprised many to see me rocking a bikini on stage!
It’s always a long day, so nothing too crazy. I’m usually ready for bed when it’s all said and done!
VM: What’s your ultimate way of celebrating after a major victory? Do you have a secret ritual to mark the occasion?
LB: Typically, a celebratory dinner and drinks with my husband. It’s always a long day, so nothing too crazy. I’m usually ready for bed when it’s all said and done!
VM: As a 13X IPL Pro Champion, you’re no stranger to being in the spotlight. But when you want to kick back and avoid the media, how do you escape?
LB: We always try to take at least one vacation per year, as well as a trip back home to Indiana to see my family.
I’m scared of everything…heights, small spaces, you name it.
VM: What’s the most adventurous thing you’ve done outside of the IPL…maybe something a little reckless or daring that not everyone knows about?
LB: Oh my gosh, I’m literally the least daring person you’ll ever meet. I’m scared of everything…heights, small spaces, you name it. Getting on stage time and time again has been by far the most daring thing I’ve ever done!
VM: We are just days away from entering 2025. What will NYE look like for you?
LB: Very chill. Watching football and a nice dinner at home most likely.
I certainly still want to be competitive with the goal of winning, but not being so hard on myself if I don’t. I do this sport because I love it...
VM: Finally, what are some of your biggest plans or goals for the year?
LB: I’m going to be entering 2025 with a whole new mindset in terms of goals with competing. This past year was full of many highs and some lows. The lows of which I let really get to me mentally. I don’t want to let that happen again. I certainly still want to be competitive with the goal of winning, but not being so hard on myself if I don’t. I do this sport because I love it and for me, it’s a blast. VIGOROUS
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