How did you get started in fitness?
Back in 2009, I decided it was time to make a change in my life and focus on becoming healthier from the inside out. I got tired of existing, going through the motions of daily life (eat, drink, work, sleep) and wanted to finally “LIVE.” I traded in my going-out pumps for a new pair of Nikes and hit the pavement running. Since then, I haven’t looked back!
How do you stay motivated?
Staying motivated is one of the hardest components of living a life of fitness. Like most people, I too have “off” days, but I use these times to reflect on my goals and refocus myself. Part of my weekly “to-do” list is to revisit and rewrite goals. I learned the importance of this from my life coach and it’s been a huge component to staying on track.
What does your diet consist of?
I pretty much stick to healthy basics when it comes food. I devour broccoli, chicken, brown rice and cucumbers like they are going out of style. Although those are my basics, I like finding new healthy products and play around with developing new recipes.
What’s your favorite music to workout to?
I absolutely love electronic music! Throw on a good DJ set and I can go for hours.
What body part are you most proud of?
Ohh, good question. I wish I could say I’m proudest of my legs and glutes, but since those are a “work in progress” I would have to say I’m proudest of my shoulders. I fee like they have just the right amount of definition and shape without looking overly built.
What’s the best part about being an Optimum Nutrition athlete?
Being part of TEAM ON has been an amazing experience. Rarely can you find a group of people who really connect as a team. TEAM ON has done just that. The camaraderie among all of the athletes is incredible and the experience we’ve all had together has formed us into a second family – the ON Family.
What is the biggest fitness myth you encounter in the fitness industry every day?
One of the biggest fitness myths, in my opinion, is that girls shouldn’t train heavy. I get so tired of hearing people say that if a girl trains heavy she’ll look like a man. I lift heavy and still look 100% woman, so myth debunked!
What’s your favorite cheat meal?
My all time favorite cheat meal would definitely have to be Mexican food. Growing up with parents who owned Mexican restaurants and working in one during college has made me a total sucker for chips, salsa, chili con queso and tenderloin filet fajitas! Okay, now my mouth is watering – lol!
How do you deal with cravings?
I actually get asked this question a lot. If I’m not prepping for something, I’ll let myself have a taste of whatever it is I’m craving. The key word here is “taste.” If it’s late night and I know I’m having cravings because I’m bored I’ll generally just go brush my teeth and grab a water.
What are your 3 favorite exercises?
*Box Jumps
*Shoulder 21’s
*Lat Pulldown
Which female fitness model’s physique do you admire the most?
There are so many amazing women in this industry that I admire, but Monica Brant stands out the most because she is a pioneer in the fitness world. Not only has Monica paved the way for so many of us, she has a strong head on her shoulders, is extremely inspiring, and is one of the nicest people I know.
What supplements would you use/recommend if any?
I’m a big believer that it’s best to get your nutrients from foods, but unfortunately that isn’t always possible or realistic. That being said, proper supplementation is necessary if you’re trying to build a healthy physique from the inside out. My go-to supps include:
ON Gold Standard Whey in Chocolate Peanut Butter
ON Platinum HydroWhey in Chocolate peanut Butter
ON Opti-Ferformance Pack (my daily multi-vitamin pack)
ON BCAA’s (additional BCAA’s pre- and post-workout)
ON Amino Energy & PlatinumPRE (best pre-workout in my opinion!)
ON CLA tabs
ON Mega Fat Burners (only when I’m prepping for a shoot or show)
ON HMB
ON Gold Standard Casein (before bed if I haven’t gotten enough protein for the day)
ABB PurePro Cookies and Cream (perfect to grab on the go when you don’t have time to mix a powder shake)
Top 10 tips for people who want to get in shape?
1. Have a vision and set your fitness goals.
2. Make a plan of action and write down the steps you will take to reach your goals.
3. Find motivational strategies to help you stay on track!
4. Prep your food in advance so you’re not forced to grab something unhealthy on the run.
5. Hire a coach or find a training partner who is knowledgeable in order to help you get to the next level.
6. Mix up your workout routine often.
7. Always perform a dynamic warm-up to avoid injury.
8. Listen to your body. It will tell you if you are tired or overtraining.
9. Don’t forget the importance of cardio. Healthy Heart = Healthy Body!
10. Take your supplements!
What’s next for you?
I feel like the sky’s the limit right now! Pursuing my fitness dreams has been an amazing journey and I feel like the best is yet to come.
More About Holly Bricken
Height: 5’10”
Weight: 137 lbs.
Resides In: San Diego, CA
Approx Measurements: 36-27-36
Website: www.hollybricken.com
Twitter: @fitbrickhouse
Holly Bricken’s Facebook
