Fantabulous!

My Facts 'n Stats:

Growing up, I loved gymnastics but did not have a facility to train so I taught myself some back handsprings...probably not the brightest idea!!
I played basketball and was a cheerleader. But by age 15 after watching the Ms Olympia competition , I fell in love with muscles and have been working out ever since. I love being a strong woman physically which for me carries over mentally.
In 2004, I decided to take it a step further and entered my first figure competition. I saw a personal trainer at my gym enter a "figure" competition which I knew nothing about. At that time there was only fitness and bodybuilding. I really was not too big muscularly for bodybuilding but really did not want to compete with many ex-gymnasts in fitness. But figure I thought would be perfect which focused more on the physique side than fitness. So after she competed in her competition, I thought to myself, "if she can do it, I know I can do it" and so I did.

My Background // My 'Story"

I love the competing, travelling, photography, meeting wonderful personalities and just enjoying the small pleasures of life.

I believe that you can not take life too seriously or you will be easily let down. Life is really too short, so go out there and achieve your dreams, whatever they may be.

Profession

Personal Trainer &/or Fitness Professional, Health & Lifestyle

My Body Proud Beliefs:

I am Pro Figure Athlete wanting to compete with the FAME organization in 2009... possibly the FAME Worlds in Montreal.
Motivation for me are the results...a great physique, increased self esteem and a healthy body.

Timeframe &/or Plan to Reach My Body Proud Goals

To be happy, fit and healthy until I die!
To inspire others to lead a healthy and happy lifestyle in body and especially in mind.

I Am Looking for Advice On:

I do have a transformation profile at bodyspace...check it out.

http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/transf129.htm

Job Description // Shameless Plug for My Products or Services :-)

Pathology/Histology and Microbiolgy Laboratory Science

Status

single, looking to sponsor, heterosexual

My Body Proud Journey Starts Here (Blog Entry #1)

Check out my youtube channel ;-) A video is worth a thousand words!

http://www.youtube.com/fantabulousfitness

My Philosophy on Nutrition, Physical Fitness &/or Focused Thinking:

Always hold your head up high and don't ask "why" or "why me" when things don't make sense. Every experience whether good or bad is an opportunity to learn and grow.
Always love and be true to yourself...ultimately, no one but you can make you happy.

My Dietary &/or Training Routine:

I am honored to be a part of such a great website for such incredible athletes and those who support them. Bodyproud I think will keep everyone connected on sho, when, where and what is going on within the industry.
Great website!!

I am Grateful For:

Turning Pro in the NGA as well as the WNBF and now competing at a Pro level.

My Advice to You to Help You Reach Your Body Proud Goals:

Always be true to yourself and don't allow others to influence your beliefs and values.

A Few Words about my Hero / Role Model / Trainer / Sponsor / Coach

I love the challenge of doing it all myself from my nutriton & workouts to choreographing my routine as well as the hair & makeup. Every aspect of the sport is exciting and challenging to me.
I still have almost every Muscle & Fitness mags from 1986-1988 when I began weight training. Funny thing is, most of the articles are similar to today!
The greatest reward for me is the choice to do it all myself.
Though I would not mind a sponsor to help me out a little :-)

Check Me Out Online:

http://www.colleen-castaneda.com

I learned about this site from: (Be specific please)

e-mail from FAME