Year of Birth: 1988

Home town: Oak Lawn, IL

Tell us briefly about yourself: (general information about who you are, what you do, family life, and your main reason for training.)

I love the lifestyle of competing.  The training, the dieting, and even the cardio...most days!  Wrking out makes you feel great. I am a figure competitor. When I'm not training I like to be outdoors hiking or camping. I also enjoy being in the water, boating, skiing, wakeboarding or tubing. I am a full time college student and work part time. My main reason for training is because I love a challenge. I enjoy challenging my body as well as my mind.

How many years have you been training?

I have been training for two years now. I am still very new to competing and have a lot to learn because I want to eventually turn Pro in Figure.

How long have you been a member of USA Gym?

I have been at USA for two years...this gym has what made me passionate about competing and helped me reach my goals. I wouldn't think of going anywhere else.

What brought you to USA Gym initially?

A friend told me about USA when I was looking for a gym to go to. I wanted a gym where I'd get real results along with support. USA is the perfect place for those who are serious about reaching their goals and for both the experienced lifters and those who are just starting out!

In your opinion, what is the best thing about USA Gym?

The best thing about USA is hands down the people (employees/trainers and fellow gym members). I love the gym's atmosphere. USA has everything you need to get the results you want. The people there are all about serious training or competing.

What are your current training goals?

I recently competed in my first Figure Competition (Illinois Championship 2007) and am currently training for the the same show next year. I want to gain more muscle and also lean out. My long term goal is to eventually become Pro in Figure.

What keeps you motivated and focused on your goals?

The support of those around me; Chuck Sanow is a great trainer and motivator. Dorothy Trojanowicz is an inspiration to me. All of the members who are also there to better themselves keep me going.

What was the lowest point in your training (or your life)?

The lowest point would have to be when I stopped being involved in sports in H.S. and wasn't working out at all because I wasn't motivated to do so.

What was the highest point in your training (or your life)?

So far, the highest point was stepping on stage for the first time at my first Figure Competition. That feeling of accomplishment and dedication. Saying to yourself I set out to do something and I did it!

In your opinion, what does it take to achieve a goal someone sets for themselves?

To achieve a goal you set for yourself you must be focused 110%. You must believe in you and NEVER GIVE UP. You have to put your heart into your goals so that they become something worth having. Be disciplined and determined.

What advice would you would give to others working to attain a fitness goal?

My advice is never give up on what you want, the best things in life are never easy. It's going to take time and a lot of hard work but in the end it's all worth it. Don't run from obstacles...run towards them and overcome them.

There are going to be times when all you want to do is give up but keep going.

If you were recommending USA Gym to a friend, what would you say about it?

USA Gym is one of the few "hardcore gyms" left in the Chicagoland area. The staff will not rest until you succeed. It's a great atmosphere with friendly, educated people who are always willing to help. Chuck Sanow is the best there is period. He is professional, precise, and honest. He knows what you need to do in order to reach your goals and will make it happen. Dorothy Trojanowicz highly recommended Chuck to me and I see what he says works for her and it worked for me too.

Final thoughts (anything that is on your mind not covered in the questions)

I would personally like to thank Chuck, Dorothy, and everyone at USA Gym for their support. I consider eveyone there close to me like family.