Isabelle Rodriguez – WBFF Bikini Model, part of Team KT
1. How did you get started with bodybuilding?
I started training 4 years ago but only the past year I found what worked best for me and I thought I would challenge myself and do a 16 week bikini prep and doing it has made me more focused and determined than ever to pursue bodybuilding.
2. Where does your motivation come from?
My motivation comes from myself I feel there are great things to come if I work hard and push my limits.
3. Why do you think you have succeeded when someone else would have given up?
I think it’s because a lot of us have been brought up to believe that failure is such a bad thing but failure to me is my best teacher. I look where I went wrong and it helps me focus on working to make it better. I live by this not just with my fitness lifestyle but in all aspects of my life.
4. What workout routine has worked best for you?
I find for me supersets are great, they can really be challenging and the results are incredible.
5. If you had to pick only 3 exercises what would they be and why?
A) Deadlifts – they are 100% my favourite, they work your whole body from your legs back arms and even abs!
B) Weighted cable crunches – these really do strengthen your core and for me a strong core is one of the most important things to have it helps with overall strength and provides support when I’m lifting heavier.
C) Press ups – these are great for building strength in your upper body and you don’t need any equipment.
6. What is your diet like?
My diet is pretty clean I like eating foods from natural sources and avoid processed. Not only it is better for you but real food tastes better! I like to keep track of my macros as I want to make sure I’m getting enough nutrients and it helps to look at my diet if I find I’m not seeing the results I’m looking for.
7. What’s the one food you couldn’t live without, and how do you handle food cravings?
Sweet potato! Literally I’m obsessed it’s just the tastiest carbohydrate in the world, right? Haha
8. How does your training and diet evolve as you get closer to a competition?
I usually start eliminating all processed foods and reduce my portion intake, maybe decrease the carbs gradually it all depends on how I’m looking and what my coach advises me.
9. What is your supplementation like?
I actually asked Tanev for some advice with supplements as the Internet can be misleading and not everyone responds the same to everything. He recommended me some good supplements to help me build lean muscle tissue, build strength and most importantly recover. So far so good and I’m feeling stronger every week.
10. What do you love most about this sport and why?
It’s challenging and I love that I like feeling uncomfortable because I know it will help me grow mentally and physically.
11. What are your hobbies and interests outside of the gym?
Travelling! I want to travel any time I get a chance. Travelling helps me recharge and inspires me.
12. Favorite Quote:
‘Feel the fear and do it anyway’
