Kara DeCesare,

Meet Kara DeCesare, mother of two, personal trainer, Den mother and fitness model.

1. How did you get started in Bodybuilding / Fitness / Figure?

After giving birth to my second son, I gained almost 60 lbs. and couldn't wait to get the weight off and return to my original weight.  My husband (who has been a trainer for 20+ years) had an idea to use me in a structure weight loss program that he developed.  I was the first client to go through the program and lost all my pregnancy weight in 16 weeks.  It was amazing and I felt great.  Through the urging of friends and colleagues, they talked me into competing and in 2006 I competed in my first figure competition.

2. What is your training philosophy?
I used to be a cardio queen, but I learned that my body responds best to weight training. I lift 6 days a week and do minimal cardio. The only time I do cardio is pre-contest, which usually includes nothing more than walking.

3. What is your diet like?
My diet is fairly structured and I start carb cycling about 12 weeks out from my competition. I've tried to cut my calories to prepare for competitions, but I've learned that it is detrimental to my lean body weight. I consume anywhere from 2200-1600 calories per day. By manipulating my macro nutrients, I can still eat well and get the results that I desire in the gym. Our colleague, Dr. Russo, PhD., has taught me the importance of nutrient time and it has paid off in spades!!! Thanks Frank!

4. Who are your role models?
WNBF Pro Melissa Kelley has to be one of my great inspirations. Raising a family and trying to train at the same time is very difficult. She has achieved so much under the most difficult of situations; I can only look at her in awe.

5. What advice would you give to new athletes?
For women, it takes time to mature into the sport. Most of the women that find success have been at it for years. I can't stress enough that it takes time to acquire "mature muscularity" and it is rare to find someone genetically gifted that can walk on stage and feel competitive. Stick to it ladies.

fitmommy1@verizon.net
karad.metabolix.net

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