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IPL Pro Leann Kelly – Fitness At 50+

“I really see my age as a blessing, not a shortcoming. I’m stronger and more self-confident than ever.”

Photography by Ben Yosef

Natural Bikini Magazine is delighted to present this exclusive interview with 53-years-young IPL Pro Leann Kelly. Following her outstanding performance at the April 2024 IPL Virginia Championship, where she competed across multiple divisions including Bikini Model, Bikini, Fitness Angels, Swimsuit Model and Evening Gown, Leann reflects on her journey with a blend of pride and determination. Embracing the challenge of entering both Masters and Open classes, Leann discusses how age has become a source of strength rather than limitation.
     Beyond her competitive achievements, Leann recently assumed the role of IPL Connecticut Contest Promoter. As she shares her vision for the future of fitness promotion in her home state, Leann encourages women of all ages to pursue their dreams fearlessly, citing wisdom, confidence, and a champion’s mindset as invaluable assets on the journey.

"I’m proud of the look that I brought to the show, but my goal is to come in a bit more muscular the next time around. My goal is 1st place in Bikini Masters!"

NATURAL BIKINI MAGAZINE: Congratulations on your remarkable achievements at the IPL Virginia Championship! How are you feeling about the look your brought and where you landed in the placements at that show?
LEANN KELLY: Thanks so much! I had a fabulous time at the show! I’m proud of the look that I brought to the show, but my goal is to come in a bit more muscular the next time around. My goal is 1st place in Bikini Masters! I also want to try my hand at Women’s Athletic and Figure! I have some work to put in and some growing to do! That’s one of the best things about the IPL divisions. There are varied divisions and many opportunities to grow in every sense of the word!
NBM: Can you share some insights into your training and preparation routine leading up to the IPL Virginia Championship?
LK: My training involves very traditional bodybuilding splits. Two Leg days (1 quad focused, the other more ham/glutes focused), Shoulders, Back & Biceps, Chest & Triceps. I focused more on resting this prep. I changed my workouts to 2 days on and 1 off. There is value to rest and recovery! I eat a plant-based diet that is high in protein all year round! I also had some sessions with the amazing Samantha England who helped me fine tune my IPL posing.

"It’s a great artistic outlet, plus a challenge to perform the different posing routines! I really love posing and performing on stage!"

NBM: In Virginia you entered quite a few divisions. Including Bikini Model, Bikini, Fitness Angels, Swimsuit Model & Evening Gown. What motivated you to enter multiple divisions?
LK: I have never competed in a federation with so many amazing divisions! I was excited to try so many of them! It’s a great artistic outlet, plus a challenge to perform the different posing routines! I really love posing and performing on stage!
NBM: You entered several “Open” classes in addition to the Masters classes. Many women who qualify for IPL Masters (being at least 40 years old) do not wish to compete in the Open classes against younger women. Obviously, this is not the case for you! Describe for us your perspective on being 50+ and going into the Opens?
LK: Entering an Open class creates a greater challenge when you’re 50 plus. Generally, there are more competitors in the Open category, plus they are quite a bit younger (a few half my age). I really see my age as a blessing, not a shortcoming. I’m stronger and more self-confident than ever. It felt natural to compete and spend as much time on stage as I could. There is also a genuine vibe within the IPL of really embracing your higher self and your vibe confidently and authentically. Open was another opportunity to pose onstage and to challenge myself.

"I really see my age as a blessing, not a shortcoming. I’m stronger and more self-confident than ever."

NBM: Congratulations on becoming our IPL Connecticut Contest Promoter! How are you feeling about this new role? And, as a new contest promoter, what are your goals and vision for promoting fitness and wellness within your community?
LK: I’m very honored and excited to promote an IPL contest in Connecticut. It presents a new challenge for me and allows me to approach a competition wearing a different hat. I’m very excited to offer a show that promotes a healthy, honest, natural, authentic fitness lifestyle to the community. Living optimally and abundantly and challenging ourselves to be our very best is the theme for this show! It is the vibe set forth by the IPL. That’s why it’s an honor to promote an IPL show here in my home state.
NBM: Being a role model for women over 50, what advice do you have for others who may be hesitant to pursue their fitness and modeling aspirations later in life?

"With age comes wisdom, truth, confidence, and strength. Those are the very best qualities for pursuing your dreams."

LK: I really encourage women my age to go after their dreams. I really don’t see age as a roadblock. With age comes wisdom, truth, confidence, and strength. Those are the very best qualities for pursuing your dreams. Everything we do must come from an open mindset with a champion’s heart! Zero limits!
NBM: As someone who has experienced such success in the sport and fitness industry, what advice do you have for aspiring competitors, fitness models and fitness enthusiasts who are looking to make their mark in the industry?

"Always be learning and always be humble!"

LK: Up and coming competitors need to be patient with themselves as they learn about competing. They need to hone their stage presence as well as their bodies. It’s good to hire a coach who knows the rules and understands the process to compete (from nutrition and training to posing and the procedures at the show itself.) Growing muscle takes time and practice makes prepared. I think every competitor will succeed if they maintain a mindset of joy and positivity and remain open to learning as they go.
NBM: Any final thoughts for Natural Bikini Magazine?
LK: Bodybuilding is a fabulous sport where you meet some amazing, generous, like-minded people. It benefits everyone in this industry to learn a lot from others who have come before them and to show up with an open heart. Always be learning and always be humble! BIKINI

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