Laura Bailey

November '09 Issue

Check out my transformation story in the newest issue of FLEX Magazine. I may not have had the most weight to lose, but I still busted my tail to get my physique where it is today. Gaining 5 lbs of muscle takes twice as long as losing 5 lbs. Ughhh! The only thing that got me there was hard work, dedication, prayers, and help and support from all of my mentors, family, and friends. Thank you SO MUCH!

For those of you who second quess yourselves, deal with nay-sayers, and doubt your own abilities. STOP! GET OUT THERE, and DO IT! It’s your life and you’ve got nothing to lose! Now get out there and throw up some iron!!! Best of luck to you! 

PLEASE don’t forget to vote for me (JUMPER11) daily at the link below.

http://www.bodybuilding.com/2010-bodyspace-spokesmodel-search-women.htm

This is an ironic post that follows my “This Is Why You’re Fat” post a few days ago. As I was making the 4hour drive from Cali to Vegas this evening for the Olympia Weekend, it was time to eat, so as I was munching on my turkey omelet I started thinking about different foods I CAN’T have right now. Then I started craving them…ugghhh!!. So here is my list. Anyone who is prepping for a contest…..DO YOU FEEL MY PAIN? LOL. Please feel free to add to the list because I will eagerly seek out new treats in the off season.

1. 1 KFC biscuit
2. ½ gallon Blue Bell Cookies n Cream ice cream
3. 2 Otis Spunkmeyer sugar cookies and 1 oatmeal raisins cookie
4. 1 scoop Baskin Robins Gold Medal Ribbon ice cream
5. 1 pint Tillamook Pistachio almond ice cream
6. 5 mini Snicker bites
7. 1 Dutch Crunch  and 1 Powdered doughnut from Dunkin Doughnuts
8. 1 slice chocolate pecan brownie and 1  cream cheese Danish from Panera Bread
9. 1 veggie burrito from Chipotle
10. Tons of fruit!!! (Yes, fruit. I can’t have it when prepping.)
11. That new pan stuffed crust on top pizza from Pizza Hut
12. 1 bottle of Moscato Allegro wine (all to myself) J
13. 2 bowls of Honey Bunches of Oats with Almonds cereal
14. 5 french toast sticks from Shoney’s (do they still have that restaurant?)
15. Ambrosia  and banana pudding from Louisiana
16. 2 pieces Texas Toast with extra garlic butter
17. 3 bread rolls from Texas Roadhouse with the Cinnamon butter
18. 1 small Reece’s Pieces Blizzard from Dairy Queen
19. 1 huge slab of wedding cake

Ok, I’m done! My drool has destroyed my keyboard!

PLEASE don’t forget to vote for me (JUMPER11) daily at the link below.

http://www.bodybuilding.com/2010-bodyspace-spokesmodel-search-women.htm

I came across this website some time ago on the Bodybuilding.com or the Musculardevelopment.com forums. At times when I wonder why I live a healthy lifestyle I look at it. And when people criticize me for being “too healthy” I send them to this site. You’ll never look at certain foods the same again…….Enjoy! http://thisiswhyyourefat.com/

Please vote daily: 

http://www.bodybuilding.com/2010-bodyspace-spokesmodel-search-women.htm

What is this world coming to?

As a mental health professional, I was pretty disappointed when I saw a segment on “The Early Show” this morning called “Speed Shrink.” The concept is that people line up at restaurants or cafes to receive 3-minute therapy by a psychologist, therapist, or clinician. They interview people who participated and they stated feeling better about talking to a complete stranger for a brief period of time within earshot of others. It didn’t state the costs, but knowing the importance of mental health I was so disappointed to see that even therapy is succumbing to society’s “quick fix” desires. Ummmmm can someone PLEASE help me understand this? I get that the environment is very relaxed and non-threatening, but what about confidentiality? I’m also thinking what happens if an issue is brought up and immediately skipped over. Can you say “Pandora’s Box?” I am hoping that these “speed sessions” are just a way to help people open up and eventually seek a longer term assistance. I don’t know about you, but I’m not feeling bearing my soul for 3-quick minutes and then it is over….. like it is an amusement park ride or something….:)   

PLEASE don’t forget to vote for me (JUMPER11) daily at the link below.

http://www.bodybuilding.com/2010-bodyspace-spokesmodel-search-women.htm

Many people refer to bodybuilding, fitness, and figure competitions as a sport of athletes. Yet others say it is not a sport and that “lifting” and “posing” does not make one an athlete. Fitness obviously requires athleticism, but what are your thoughts on bodybuilding and figure? A friend of mine defined an athlete as one who utilizes skill and agility to participate in an activity that is objective rather than subjective. I found this definition interest, as it would rule out many who refer to themselves as “athletes”. This question has come up several times and every time I hear various responses I gain a new perspective of the word “athlete.”  I’ve heard people get into heated debates as to whether it is fair to consider bodybuilders as such. The entire sport is subjective and based on aesthetics. Although there is a point system, again it is subjective. As a former multisport athlete in track, cross-country, volleyball, soccer, etc, I do see how bbing and figure would require different skills, but at the same time is unfair to call people who participate in this sport athletes….IDK…what do you think?

PLEASE don’t forget to vote for me (JUMPER11) daily at the link below.

http://www.bodybuilding.com/2010-bodyspace-spokesmodel-search-women.htm

What do you think?

Sorry I’ve been M-I-A for a while….but I’ve had limited access to the internet….and it is killing me. Oh what have I become? A blogging junkie?? You betcha!

So I just want to post my thoughts over the past few days. PLEASE feel free to comment as you see fit.

1) Serena Williams…..WHY?? I know we can all get passionate about what we do, but dang….she ripped that poor lady a new one. I’m glad she was able to apologize for her actions afterward….even though it really wasn’t a foot fault.

2) Will someone who personally knows Kanye West please refer him to my “Mental Health Segement” blog from a few weeks ago. Seriously, that is a clear demonstration of a person with true talent who “appears” to have it all, but is just hanging on by a thread. I do commend his apology to Taylor and truly hope he does take time off and get the help that he says he needs.

3) Beyonce……class at it’s finest. Beauty, grace, and elegance defined. Hi-five to her!  

4) Someone please help me understand WHY the Biggest Loser thought it was smart to have OUT OF SHAPE PEOPLE run a mile. C’mon now…..If they keep that up they are about to start having to show clips of that show on the other show titled, “When Good Times Go Bad”. Not a smart move Biggest Loser….even if it was for TV ratings. These are people’s lives!

5) And maybe I’m a bit biased, but can someone please explain the facination with that show. In myopinion it is not TRUE HEALTH b/c these people are wisked away to “fat camps” for months and are workingout 10-12 hours a day…..does Dexter Jackson or Jay Cutler even workout that much in prepping for the Olympia? LOL. The contestants have trainers and doctors readily available and then everyone gets all excited when they lose 10lbs…..well if I were in “perfect conditions” such as those I SHOULD be losing 10lbs, so what’s the big deal. Maybe it is just the idea that someone is worse off that you mindset that people find comforting??? IDK. Someone please offer their insight on this b/c I just don’t get it. I feel like it just gives people who struggle a false sense of what is attainable…….your thoughts?

PLEASE don’t forget to vote for me (JUMPER11) daily at the link below.

http://www.bodybuilding.com/2010-bodyspace-spokesmodel-search-women.htm

Hmmmmm

…..20 QUESTIONS……..

1)What exactly is a “Secret Society” anyway?

2)Is it really necessary to have a laptop, blackberry, and Bluetooth with you at all times?

3)Do that many people really need to get in touch with you, or are you just trying to look important?

4)Why is there rehab for internet addictions?

5)Why is Lil’ Wayne on every artist’s song?

6)Why do people get in the left lane and drive slow?

7)Why is “Intermittent Explosive Disorder” just a cover up for “Road Rage”?

8 Who came up with the fashion rule stating you can’t wear white after Labor Day?

9)Why am I so excited for the season premiere of Oprah next week?

10)Why are the people grunting the loudest at the gym always the ones with the lightest weight?

11)Why does if often seem like kids are more intelligent than adults? (we over think things)

12)Why does everyone in California drive a Mercedes, BMW, or Lexus?

13)Why are half of these same people struggling to maintain their image?

14)Why do women wear heels if they can’t walk in them?

15)Why do people think “sagging” is still cool?

16)Why does a “good ol’ fashion butt whoopin” from a parent to a child now have to involve CPS?

17)When did properly disciplining your child become a CPS issue anyway?

18)Why do we always want what we can’t have?

19)Why do people swim in the ocean and then get surprised when a shark attack occurs?

20)What do you think?

"The Guru"

A few days ago I posted a blog about overcoming adversity. Yesterday’s post allowed you to see that Flex Wheeler has truly conquered his share of obstacles and overcome his own adversities. As you continue to meet the athletes of EFX, I encourage you to consider how each continues to persevere in spite of life’s challenges. 

ERIC BROSER

Eric Broser, also known as “Guru,” “Yoda,” “Sixthsense,” and “The One” is an AAEFX Internet Marketing Manager, personal trainer/contest prep coach, and monthly columnist for Iron Man & Muscular Development magazines. Eric is an NGA Natural Pro Bodybuilder, NGA Judge, and was cover model of the October 2008 Iron Man Magazine. His monthly MD column called “No Juice Bodybuilding”is definitely worth reading. Eric is considered an expert in training and nutrition. He is the regular co-host of Jose Antonio’s “Performance Nutrition” radio show in Boca Raton Florida and Co-author of “Building the Perfect Beast Naturally.” Eric is the developer and pioneer of the POWER, REP RANGE, SHOCK (PRRS) and FIBER DAMAGE/FIBER SATURATION (FDFS) training systems, which have been featured in articles in numerous magazines. He recently released a DVD and  E-book in conjunction with Iron Man magazine about these training protocols (www.prrsdvd.com).

Eric not only looks the part of a finely-tuned “natural freak”, but speaks it as well. He has written over 50 articles sharing his knowledge about training that have been published in almost all the mainstreamed health and fitness magazines. Although he carries a large amount of muscle on his frame Eric states, “I was not born with very good genetics for bodybuilding. I was 5′11″ when I started and weighed only 125 lbs! So many people told me that I was wasting my time with working out….that I was just “meant” to be skinny. I eventually got up to 273 lbs, and now compete at close to 220 DRUG FREE. I did not listen to any of my detractors and instead used it to fuel my fire.” His motivation and perseverance is one we should all aspire to achieve.

CHARLA CORMIER

Charla Cormier grew up in a small town called Marble Falls, Texas.  She discovered her love for fitness as a child and participated in competitive gymnastics, cheerleading, drill team, and volleyball.  Unfortunately despite of all her athleticism she did not grow up with the sleek toned body of an athlete.  

After graduating Marble Falls High School in 1992, Charla taught gymnastics and attended Austin Community College.

Wife, Mother, Athlete

 Quickly realizing college was not for her, she followed her passion for fitness.  Determined to finally figure out how to achieve that “sleek” “toned” body, she became a certified personal trainer and eventually went on to manage a GNC store in Texas. Charla gained extensive knowledge from both jobs, but still did not achieve the body she had hoped for.

Shortly after marrying her husband Rob in 2000, the couple decided to start a family, and immediately got pregnant. During the 7th month of her pregnancy an emergency c-section was performed due to her son developing a heart anomaly. Charla’s son passed away 6 days later.  It was during this time of grief, and what would later prove to be growth, that she and her husband relocated to Bakersfield, California to start a new life.   The couple got pregnant 3 years later with their second son, and a daughter followed a year later. Although happily blessed with 2 children and a wonderful husband, Charla’s weight went from 125lbs to 170lbs.  It was only  after seeing herself in a photograph that Charla decided to  take control of her body and get the physique she dream of. She refused to be an out of shape mom and wife and worked tirelessly to break the overweight “mommy mold.” She entered her first NPC figure competition to have a goal to work toward.  9 months after giving birth to her daughter, she stepped on stage to compete weighing 124lbs and placing 6^th. She is now a certified personal trainer (www.thecavemanplan.com),  national level figure competitor and the spokes model for the product Kre-a-fem by All American EFX.   Charla states, “I am very blessed to be where I am in my life today.  I could not have done it without my faith in the Lord and my very supportive family!   I live by one saying now and that is: “Make a GOAL, not an EXCUSE….believe in yourself!” Her drive, tenacity, and no excuses attitude clearly demonstrates that you can still be hot after becoming a mom. 

In an industry that is known for making the biggest gains possible in the least amount of time, All American EFX supplement company prides itself in working with individuals who are 100% drug free. The company even goes so far as to subject every athlete to random drug tests to ensure its credibility and promote a substance free lifestyle….but just who are these sponsored EFX athletes? This week I’ll be featuring bios of all the athletes from All American EFX, so you can get to know a little more about them.

Kenneth “Flex” Wheeler

Known to the bodybuilding and fitness industry as “Flex,” “IFBB Pro,” or “The Legend,” Kenneth Wheeler was born August 23, 1965 in Fresno, California. After experiencing and overcoming numerous childhood and teenage setbacks, Wheeler sought refuge in martial arts training which later evolved into bodybuilding. Referring to himself as a “martial artist first” Wheeler holds black belts in Tae-Kwon-do (Korea Kukkiwon) and Kemp-kwon-do.  After a brief career as a police officer and amateur bodybuilder, Wheeler earned his pro bodybuilding card at the 1992 NPC USA.  From there his bodybuilding accomplishments have been unmatched.  He holds the Guinness Book of World Records for the best professional debut of any bodybuilder. These feats include 5 Ironman Pro Championships and 4 Arnold Classic Championships. Additionally, his physique which was known for its near perfect symmetry has been victorious at other shows including the France Grand Prix, South Beach Pro Invitational, Night of Champions and Hungarian Grand Prix. Throughout his 9-year career as a professional bodybuilder Wheeler competed in 28 shows nationally and internationally, placing 1^st in half of them, 2^nd in nine, and not less than 8^th in the remaining five.

Wheeler retired from bodybuilding in 2002, just 2 years after being diagnosed with the rare, but aggressive kidney disease Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS).  Since his retirement, Wheeler has remained active in the bodybuilding and fitness industry. He continues to train as a martial artist. He is an exclusive contributing writer and photographer for Muscular Development Magazine. He hosts MD Radio (www.musculardevelopment.com/content/blogcategory/116/186/) and The Flex Wheeler Radio Show: Ridin’ Shotgun  (www.musculardevelopment.com/content/blogcategory/118/189/) which recently debuted in April 2009. The latter show offers Wheeler the opportunity to discuss a variety of topics in a no holds barred setting. In 2006 Wheeler partnered with All American EFX (www.aaefx.com), one of the fast growing premiere supplement companies that prides itself in supporting the “natural athlete” movement. Wheeler serves as Co-Owner and Director of Media/Public Relations with a company that guarantees all its products are 100% pure, potent, and drug free. Wheeler’s passion for educating athletes on the healthy alternatives to pharmaceutically enhancing physiques has been demonstrated through his new natural supplement line Flex Wheeler Signature Series (FWSS), which launched in early 2009. Additionally, Wheeler is CEO/President of Team Flex Wheeler Worldwide, LLC. His founded company promotes bodybuilding and other sporting events, training services, publications, automotive and motorcycle events.

Flex Wheeler

Kenneth “Flex” Wheeler’s life was chronicled in his revealing 2003 biography Flex Ability: A story of strength and survival.  He continues to travel nationally and internationally working as a motivational speaker, bodybuilding representative, liaison and ambassador for a drug free lifestyle. He is a spokesperson for Nephcure Foundation, which promotes research to find a cure for FSGS. He also remains a car enthusiast. Wheeler resides in Morgan Hill, California where he enjoys spending time with his wife and children.

Please don’t forget to vote for me daily: http://www.bodybuilding.com/2010-bodyspace-spokesmodel-search-women.htm. Thanks.

It was 3am and I was frustrated because I couldn’t sleep, I turned on the TV in dismay and came across a random show about various people in America. What followed after watching the last 30 minutes of the 2hr program was a person filled with gratitude for EVERY good and bad thing that life has blessed me with. Please watch the first few minutes of the 10min clip about Erik Weihenmayer and then ask yourself what do you see when you wake up every day and how do you handle adversity? (click on the name below to start the clip)

Erik Weihenmayer