When a determined Billinge woman decided to get back into shape, she had no idea it would lead to a successful career in bodybuilding.
But that’s exactly what’s happened for Jennifer West, who is celebrating a stunning second place at the prestigious National Amateur Body Builder’s Association (NABBA) North West Fierce competition in just her second year of competing.
The 28-year-old has also finished fifth in the NABBA finals, securing herself a place at Universe, a world championships taking place in October.
And she puts her success down to hard work and determination on her part.
Jennifer said: “I’m so happy to have got this far. To win a place at Universe is amazing and knowing all my hard work is paying off. I entered because I wanted to challenge myself to get better. I wanted something to motivate me and I wanted a deadline.
“Prepping for competition takes commitment, sacrifice and lots of white fish! Double training sessions, heavy weights, lots of food and posing sessions.”
“It’s very time-consuming and I’m lucky to have a very supportive boyfriend who helps me prep my food and encourages me.”
Nabba is the world’s first competitive bodybuilding association. Formed in 1950, its first Mr Universe contest was won by Steve Reeves, who went on to make more than 30 Hercules movies.
And the list of top names who have gone on to win the Mr Universe title include Reg Park, Bill Pearl and Arnold Schwarzenegger.
Past glories don’t motivate Jennifer, though.
She said: “There is no one in particular who inspires me, but I’m motivated by my own results to keep going.
“It’s exciting to see what you can do with my physique and watching my body change if I commit. It’s so rewarding.”
Now Jennifer, who hails from Billinge, hopes to inspire other women from the borough who want to follow in her footsteps.
She added: “My plan for the future is to just be the best I can and take the bodybuilding world by storm.
“I’m so exited to see what the future holds and I’m more than willing to work hard for it.”
Courtesy of: St. Helens Reporter