Cover Story: IPL Pro Samantha England Is All About Good Vibes

In this VIGOROUS MAGAZINE cover story, we feature IPL Pro Samantha England, whose positivity energy and determination have made her a standout in the International Physique League and the health and fitness industry. Known for radiating good vibes both on and off the stage, Samantha reveals the secrets behind her inspiring attitude. From navigating the challenges of intense training to maintaining mental resilience, she shares her journey and offers insightful advice for athletes and fitness enthusiasts aiming to foster their own positive mindset. The following conversation with Samantha blends faith, perseverance, and the pursuit of personal excellence.

Photos by Ben Yosef

I always strive to maintain a positive outlook. Admittedly, it's not constant.

VIGOROUS MAGAZINE: What’s your secret to maintaining such positive energy both on and off stage?
SAMANTHA ENGLAND: I always strive to maintain a positive outlook. Admittedly, it’s not constant. It’s a challenge to stay positive and push through tough workouts, lengthy cardio sessions, and strict dieting during contest preparation. Sometimes, I tend to be self-critical, especially when I feel I’m not making the progress I want to see while cutting. However, taking a step back, comparing photos and measurements from previous weeks has been very helpful in helping me find and maintain a positive mindset.
VM: Can you share a mantra or affirmation that motivates you during tough workouts or competitions?
SE: My favorite verse from Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; lean not into your own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him and he shall direct thy paths.” This always keeps me motivated during difficult times. It reminds me to trust in his guidance through challenging workouts, dieting temptations, competition nerves, and maintaining mental strength in times of doubt. I believe that with faith, regardless of the outcome, God will guide me to where I need to be.

I find it beneficial to treat the weekend as an active rest period, soaking up sunlight, going for walks, disconnecting from work and my phone.

VM: As an IPL Pro Athlete, how do you balance physical training and mental well-being for a holistic approach to health and fitness?
SE: Establishing a routine is crucial. And having a friend to support me with workouts keeps me accountable and motivated, preventing procrastination. For mental well-being, I find it beneficial to treat the weekend as an active rest period, soaking up sunlight, going for walks, disconnecting from work and my phone. Prioritizing family time, enjoying a meal off my plan, and finding balance helps me realign my focus for the week ahead.

My advice? Pray, pray, pray. I seek God's help to ease my nerves, banish doubts, and grant me the courage and resilience to push through to the finish line on stage.

VM: Your stage presence exudes confidence. How do you overcome self-doubt or nervousness before competing?
SE: First and foremost, thank you! When it comes to competing, I often feel doubtful and nervous. My advice? Pray, pray, pray. I seek God’s help to ease my nerves, banish doubts, and grant me the courage and resilience to push through to the finish line on stage. He is the sole reason I find the confidence to step onto the stage.
VM: How do you stay focused on your journey and maintain a positive self-image amidst a world full of comparisons and negativity?
SE: I strive to stay focused and uphold a positive self-image by primarily concentrating on my own progress instead of comparing myself to others. By being my own competition.

...I had to pretend to be confident (almost like I was acting) until my mind started to believe it, and now I'm an IPL posing coach!

VM: Share with us a moment when maintaining a positive attitude made a significant difference in your athletic career.
SE: A moment I really realized this was on stage. I’m not super confident when it comes to being on stage! Lots of people are surprised when I say this because I do my best to act confident on stage. But trust me when I say I have been on stage before and let my negative thoughts take over and I did not look good on stage because of it. So, I had to pretend to be confident (almost like I was acting) until my mind started to believe it, and now I’m an IPL posing coach! So, maintaining a positive attitude and positive outlook made a huge impact on my stage presence and my fitness career!

It's crucial to maintain a positive outlook and a strong self-image for success. Speak positivity about yourself and be grateful for what you've accomplished...

VM: Lastly, what advice would you give aspiring athletes and fitness enthusiasts on fostering a mindset of positivity and self-belief?
SE: I had a conversation with a client recently, highlighting the impact of negative self-talk and comparisons to others, potentially leading to a harmful cycle. It’s crucial to maintain a positive outlook and a strong self-image for success. Consistent negativity and self-doubt do not foster success, attract clients, boost your reputation, or add value to your life. Speak positivity about yourself and be grateful for what you’ve accomplished, your health and the physique you’ve worked so hard for, and it will only bring you more success.
     My favorite verse about this topic that helps remind me of this is Philippians 4:6-7: “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving let your request be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and mind through Christ Jesus.“ VIGOROUS
IPL Bikini Champion Samantha England Lands Cover Of VIGOROUS Magazine

Share this post:

More Samantha England

More From VIGOROUS Spring 2024 Issue

More From VIGOROUS Magazine