Elise`s Journey to The Competition Stage
I have always enjoyed keeping fit and healthy, and always admired Bree from afar. A few years ago, I thought it would be cool to compete….but that thought was immediately supplanted by “no way, you’re too old.” As the years passed though, the thought to compete became even more compelling. Almost immediately after my 36th birthday, I decided to overcome my fear and contact Bree. The first question I asked was “Am I too old to compete” and she laughed and said “no way.” At that moment I knew I was in safe hands, and we began the 6 month process. I never had any expectations, I just wanted to compete to check it off my bucket list. I can honestly say that there were never moments that I wanted to quit. The workouts were intense and I was at the gym for about 2.5 hours 6 days a week. I had to eat the same types of food regularly, and give up things that I really enjoyed like ice cream and pizza. But, I knew that this was all part of the process. If it were easy, everyone would do it. I was motivated by the difficulties. It was a beautiful thing, seeing my weekly progress. I couldn’t believe that was me!!!
Competition day was amazing!!!! I met the most beautiful, kind, inspiring women I’ll ever have the pleasure of sharing company with. The energy was unreal. As I waited on stage for my number to be called, I was overwhelmed with a sense of pride and accomplishment…not for my body, but for overcoming my fear. I walked out on stage with confidence and grace although I was really nervous. I got first call outs and lengthy comparisons. Ultimately, I placed second in my class at my very first competition and am now going to provincials. This all happened because I decided to fight my fear. Anything is possible with the right attitude and amazing support. Bree is the best coach I’ve ever had because she makes it personal. Your success is her success. She invests in you even more than you invest in yourself. I am forever in debt to Bree.