How and when did you get started in training and living a fit lifestyle?
My fitness journey started when I was 21 on my lounge room floor with really cheesy Pilates DVDs or I’d fast walk in the afternoons, but wasn’t long until I got bored plus I’m scared of plovers and especially magpies so I joined a gym and just did cardio. I hadn’t touched weights until I was about 23 and once I started I became obsessed and now that’s all I do! I taught myself really. I’d do loads of research before bed and if I wasn’t sure on a technique I’d watch clips.
What got you started in the fitness industry?
I started my own business in my hometown when I was 20, it had nothing to do with fitness though, I was a Laser and IPL Therapist. I loved it but I needed a lifestyle change so I sold everything and moved to the Gold Coast. The people here are very motivating, everyone is active, most people train or surf or train and surf! I joined World Gym Burleigh and I’d never seen so many fit people in one gym before! I guess being surrounded by fitness enthusiasts inspired me, beginning of 2015 I met my coach Chris Thomas, Director of Alpha Ethos and we decided I’d compete in the 2015 IFBB Arnold Classics Australia. I definitely couldn’t have don’t it without him. So really I’m just a newbie in the fitness industry.
Along with your fitness journey, have you ever felt like quitting… and if so what/who motivated you to keep going?
Omg yes! I’ve had many moments where I’ve thought are shows really worth it? The weeks leading up to a show are different for everyone but for me, It’s almost like I’m a different person, especially those last couple of weeks when calories are really low.. I have zero patience, I’m craving junk food like you wouldn’t even believe! I’m moody and I can’t be trusted with keys, phones wallets or anything else that should not be lost! So it’s a combination of things and my poor boyfriend copes with it… I’m surprised he’s stayed with me! But it’s him who keeps me motivated, he’s the most positive person I know, he’s my number one supporter and he is the reason I’ve come this far.
What types of cardio have worked best for you?
Definitely fasted fast walking in the morning, not running. I hold a lot of fluid in my legs and I found running inflames them especially my lower legs. I go for beach walks really early and in winter watching the sun rising is beautiful! If I’m cutting for a show I’ll add 15 mins on the treadmill on an incline, step machine or bike after my workout but only if it’s absolutely necessary!!! I really don’t like gym cardio, I’d rather swim at the beach or something.
What supplements do you use… and what are some of your favorites you would recommend?
I just take the basics while I’m in off season, fish oils, magnesium at night, BCAA’s while training, WPI Protein and Glutamine post workout. When I’m in prep I’m a lot more strict, I’ll take carnitine before cardio, HCL with meals for digestion, ATP T432 for metabolism and ATP Alpha Venus or Poliquin DIM for hormones depending on Chris’s instructions. My absolute must supplement is fiber, every morning and night without fail.
When you look back what do you think has been the key to achieving your goals?
Consistency! I’ve been consistently training and eating healthy every day since that first day I decided I wanted to be fit. Apart from cheat meals and holidays of course! If you see it as a lifestyle and not a phase you will get there. I get up every day and just do it, I never think twice.
What’s one tip you would give to a person just starting their fitness journey?
Again consistency is number one. Enjoy your food, if you don’t eat you don’t grow. Always have something to look forward to outside of fitness such as traveling, to feed the soul.
What’s next for you?
Cheat day, I’m baking Nigella Lawson’s Nutella Cake!
For More Taleah Testa:
IG @misstaleah
Photos by IG @abccreative
