Monique Cormier, who has overcome obesity and severe depression en route to becoming a world class amateur bodybuilder, joins Dave [ ... ]
Spotlight On NPC Figure Competitor: Kylie Marsh
Category you compete in: Figure
Date of birth: April 2nd, 1990
Hometown: Fort Collins
Career: Student
If you could change into a superhero for a day who would you be and why?
I would turn into Starfire. I'm always cold and she can harness solar energy.
What made you begin dedicating your lifestyle to this sport?
I felt a void in my life. I was living without a passion. I chose this lifestyle because it simply was an option. I fell into it both feet first and I was lucky enough to have stumbled upon my greatest passion in life.
What approach do you take to dieting...carb cycle..keto?
I follow my body. My nutritionist has me on a carb cycle for competition prep but anyone who knows me knows I'm the biggest cheat. I'm horrible sometimes. When my body says it craves something I give it exactly that. I admit- one time during a peak week for a show I ate probably 1 lb of broccoli one night against my meal plan. I hope she doesn't read this!
What do you think is the biggest misconception people have about competing?
Overall I would say that the biggest misconception of competing is that the community and culture are "healthy." I'm just as guilty as others, though I try my best to be as natural as possible. My nutrition coach always objected supplements and steered my in a direction in which my needed nutrients were found in my food consumption. That doesn't account for peak week and major caloric depletion. I love competing and I'm a dedicated competitor, but I'm honest. It’s not really healthy.
What is your most embarrassing childhood memory?
I'm a competitor since day one. My competitive nature exposed itself in my young age. Especially in the form of hide and seek. One time, in 5th grade I might mention, I was engaged in an epic game. I found a hiding spot that insured my undoubted game win. The only problem was that within 15 minutes or so I had to pee... I won the game, but I had to borrow a pair of pants...
What is the biggest lesson you have learned about YOURSELF during your contest prep?
I've learned to connect my spirit with my body. I have always felt like my mind and my body where two different entities. During contest prep I went through moments of intense muscular pain, serious hunger, and debilitating thirst. I have never pushed myself as hard in anything before and the connection to the physical pain and mental clarity that brought connection to my spiritual displacement. Couple that with humility from competing with stunning competitors, and overcoming fear through posing half naked in front of strangers, for the first time in my life I learned to feel the connection of my mind and body, and learn how to be present within myself.
Who do you look up and admire and why?
I admire the people around me. I am constantly stunned by the beauty of the people that surround me in my life. They all teach me the deepest of core lessons through respect, support, and kindness. I am truly blessed.
Competition history:
Colorado Northern- (3rd place Open Bikini)
Warrior Classic-(1st place Novice Figure, 2nd place Open Figure)
Rocky Mountain- (3rd place Open Figure)
NPC Nationals- (4th place class D)
Next competition:
USA Championships
Favorite Motivational Quote:
"First they ignore you, then they laugh at you, then they fight you, then you win."
Who would you like to thank?
Hollywood for introducing me to competitions.
Alexus Lopez for pushing me to do competitions, and heavier sets.
Theresa Rudel for getting me started.
Tamara Sherrill for giving me the tools and support I needed to achieve my goals.
Carol Semple for inspiring me to pursue Figure, and giving me a chance to prove myself when I was in a low place.
My family for always believing in me.
Marge and Gary for opening their hearts to me in a time of personal growth.
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