Monday, 1 April 2013

Introducing...Sarah - The Quiet Achiever


Name: Sarah Beard

Occupation: Supplier in the Air Force

Family Situation: Married

What made you decide to enter the comp?
I realized after seeing a photo that I was very bony, in my eyes it was not attractive. I was inspired by a couple of people who entered the comp last year, they built muscle and looked good, something I did not think was possible for a girl to do………I was wrong.

What life changes did you make as soon as the decision was made?
I found Kirsten who made me eat more (?????) and lift weights and drink protein shakes…….I was terrified of her, which meant I did everything she ever said.

What training do you currently undertake?
I train 7 days a week, 5 days are weights and two are ICE (HIIT) sessions.

How has your nutrition changed?
I actually eat more than ever before. I have 5 meals a day, actual meals not shakes!! I care more about what I put in my body,.I do not eat processed foods anymore and I am more prepared with meals by getting everything ready and in a container so it is even more convenient than going through a drive through!

How does your family handle your current lifestyle?
My husband is currently serving overseas so it makes it a little bit harder to feel like I have the support that others do, but he is constantly reassuring me and encouraging me. I have also developed a great relationship with the other girls competing and they are now part of my support system, along with my training buddy. You know who you are.

What is something you love about it?
The day-after pain. It means I have done what I set out to do.

What is something you don’t love?
How people view what I do. Some people have been a bit nasty with comments saying things like, I will look like a man, or, I will be unattractive with muscle definition. I no longer bother replying, I think my body will speak for itself when we are on stage.

Is it what you thought it would be?
No. It is far more time and life consuming than I ever thought possible. I am constantly thinking about my next meal or how I can do better with my next workout. I love it.

Do you think you will compete again?
Yes………simply yes!

If so, why?
I feel great, I have more confidence, I feel healthier and I look healthier. It is a lifestyle now.

Any funny/lightbulb moments?
Funniest moment was being still rather new to the weights room and laying down for a chest press, feeling pretty good because I can lift the 20kg bar (it was a lot for me at the time!) and then deciding to add another 10kg to that because 10kg could not be THAT much heavier!!!! Well I got it up and did one rep and then I got it stuck………on my chest. My SGT was over doing his thing and I did not want to interrupt him, but it was getting rather painful so as soon as he finished his set I squeaked out his name, he turned to look and freaked out and ran over to help me. Pulled the bar off and then we had a good ol chuckle. Lesson learnt - always have a spotter when we are doing a new exercise!

How has your body changed?
Dramatically. I have some lovely definition in my arms and legs and I get this great feeling when I put my hands on my stomach….I can feel muscle!!!!

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