I am an Executive Administrative Assistant for a large corporation in Ottawa and a mother of two wonderful kids attending University. I have started weightlifting in August 2003 under the wings of a wonderful training partner, Steve Doucette.

At only 5'3" tall, last April (2003), my weight was 165 lbs. and I was very unhappy, depressed about myself and I was out of shape. I have always admired Fitness and Natural Bodybuilding and always thought that was just a dream and not a possibility for someone like me at my age.

Like everyone else, I had gone on many diets without success. In May of last year, I was attending Curves and had lost 12 pounds within the first month. I loved the results but wanted to take it a step further. With the help of a personal trainer, I joined a gym and then began a weight training program with cardio and a good nutrition plan. By September, I had lost 30 pounds and began to have muscle definition and abs. My body was getting toned and I was getting remarkable positive comments. I then began to realize that I might be able to compete in bodybuilding. I must admit that I was blessed with good genetics. From thereon, I have fixed myself a goal to compete at the WNSO Eastern Regionals May 2004. With determination, motivation and perseverance, a goal, a dream was achieved. On May 1st, 2004, my dream came true. I stepped on that stage and won 1st place in my weight class and masters division. Thereafter, I headed out to the Nationals with a goal of placing top 5 in either my weight division or Masters. My goal was achieved as I placed 2nd in Lightweights, 3rd in Masters and 3rd place in pairs division with my training partner Steve. What an weekend and an amazing experience. I was so pumped, I wanted to compete again and again...

In August, Neutron had a their National show in Ottawa. This was a local show and an the opportunity to have my family and friends in attendance supporting me. This was another amazing achievement for me as I won 1st place in Masters and 3rd in Open division. I am very proud of my accomplishments for my first year competing.

Bodybuilding for older women:

I think bodybuilding is empowering for any woman - young or older. One advantage to being older is that mature muscle looks better, and if you continue with your training - your body continually improves with age. I tell people all the time I think bodybuilding is the "fountain of youth". I see more people who have taken it up at a later stage in their life, and look absolutely phenomenal! As a woman in her 40's, I can honestly say that I am so much better physically and mentally than I was in my 20's and 30's. I never felt this good, until I took up bodybuilding, and kept with it. Perhaps taking it up as a mature woman is a bonus because we are typically more settled and aware of our body and the changes it has undergone over life. It's amazing when you realize that with some sweat and iron you can change that body and even entertain thoughts of stepping on the competitive stage. It's a very rewarding experience and definitely a confidence and self-esteem booster.

REGRETS: My only regret is not having started this earlier in life.

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Thanks,
Michele Lacroix