Our Exclusive Interview with Ms. Allison Ethier

How did you get started in the fitness industry?
Prior to discovering fitness I had been a cheerleader (jr high, high school and university) for 10 years, and a provincial level gymnast. I had come to the end of my cheerleading career and took some time away from my 'disciplined' life in order to be a normal college student.
I partied, ate to excess, drank in excess, and gained weight. I tried to 'workout' like a regular person by going to the gym, but I was unmotivated to train just to fit into my 'skinny' clothes.
I was started to miss being the spotlight, competition, and being among those people who shared this interest as well. So I found a competition in my area, trained for it and competed.
There was only one other girl and myself in the show, but it laid the foundation for future competitions.

What do you feel is your biggest accomplishment?
There so many highlights that it is tough to limit to just a few. I would have to say, winning both the FAME World Fitness event, and Fitness America Pageant in 2004 was always a goal of mine.
I had been striving toward both titles and finally made it to the top. I was elated. I also love working with Slimquick & Slimquick Extreme - they have been wonderful to me over the past 2 years. It is motivating to know that I am with a company that supports me and my endeavors.

Is fitness modeling/ competition your full-time job?
This is my part time full time hobby. I am a high school math teacher of 6 years, as it keeps me grounded in the realities of life. Plus teaching offers a lot of freedom, and security.
Fitness can be a hard business to do full time. I like to think of it as my play time and a way to showcase my creativity.

What are your long-term goals?
Continue to compete as much as I can. The gymnastics in the routine really beats my body up. I would also like to try my hand a fitness model competition and perhaps figure.

What supplements do you use?
IsoXp- WellNX Life Science (NxCare)
Slimquick Extreme - "The female fat burner"

How do you motivate yourself to stay in shape?
It can be hard, especially in the winter months to keep the weight off, and eyes on the season ahead. I do take slimquick in the off season as well to keep me heading to the gym on a regular basis, and it reminds me to watch my diet.
I try to treat myself 1-2 times per week, if I have had 2-3 good days of eating. Unlike some who say variety in ones diet is necessary to staying 'on track' I would have to say the opposite is true for myself.
My diet says pretty much the same all year, and I add a few things now and again. That way I do not crave those sinful foods, as I am not consuming them on a daily basic.
Also it makes it easier to know what I am going to eat for my next meal. Plan and borning, pretty much sums up my diet.
At the gym I also make sure to have a large selection of heart pumping music so that I can really get into my workout.

What tips would you give to someone who wanted to get into the fitness modeling (or fitness competition).
Keep up with your workouts and diet. Competition is a great way to get your face out there. Organizations such as WNS0 & FAME (www.wnso.com) are great at promoting their athletes, and will help you gain exposure. Network with photographers, send editors your photos, and let them know your goals, and never give up. The worst they can say is 'no'.