Tahlia, you recently won your WBFF Bikini Pro card. What was it like being on stage and finally earning your pro card?
The feeling was indescribable. The whole weekend was the most amazing experience and I truly had the best time. All I wanted was to be better than my last show, and to be the strongest I have ever been (internally) – this was a win in itself. Winning my category was a bonus, however receiving my PRO status was a dream come true. I have such a strong love and passion for the stage and really performing at the moment.
Pro status means so much to me and I cannot wait to really grow as a professional athlete in this brand. It has so much to offer!
Australian WBFF stars are getting a lot of attention lately with Lauren Simpson, Hattie Boydle and so many more. How exciting is it to be apart of this great Australian movement?
It feels surreal to now be a professional in the same federation alongside such big names. I consider myself very lucky and feel honored to stand alongside them. It pushes me to want to do even better so that I can eventually be a title holder too like them. However, what I love most is that they are some of the most genuine kind hearted people I have met. I too would love to be even half as successful as those girls and become amazing role models like themselves.
How/when did you get started in training and living a fit lifestyle?
I have always been active throughout my childhood and teenage years. I grew up riding and competitively showing horses and gave it away when I moved to the Gold Coast. I had been in the gym from age 18, however, when I made the move at 20 years old I decided I needed a new challenge – so competitive bodybuilding was next in line and I’m not giving that away any time soon!
I also decided to live a healthier lifestyle to help combat my anxiety and depression.
What is the most challenging thing about being a fitness model?
I think it is learning to love your body at all stages. As females, we have to look after our hormones and learn to embrace our curves. Especially if we are looking to make changes to our physiques there is definitely a process that we have to go through. It sure as hell doesn’t happen overnight. You have to learn to get comfortable with being uncomfortable!
What products and supplements do you swear by?
3 of the staples I use are by Victory Labs – Hydro Completed Protein, ‘Xenevar ‘ fat burner and the Native Greens. I also use Glutamine every day. I am really big on ensuring my digestion is functioning optimally so greens and glutamine are a must.
What are your top 3 favorite exercises?
Sumo Deadlifts Arnold Shoulder press and low bar squats.
Do you listen to music while you train? If so, what’s your favorite type of music you like working out to?
Music is a must! I am an RNB and Rap kind of girl.
Do you ever encounter stereotypes with the way you look?
I really enjoy my own company and when I go to the gym I am there to train with purpose and focus 100% on my session – I have in the past had messages from people telling me I looked “grumpy” or unapproachable. However, when I do engage with people they realize this isn’t the case! I do love engaging with people and making friends in this industry!
What is your current training style, routine or split?
Monday: Glutes and Hamstrings
Tuesday: Back and biceps
Wednesday: Quads and Glutes
Thursday: Rest
Friday: Shoulders, triceps, and abs
Saturday: Glutes and Hamstrings
Sunday: Rest
I currently do 40 mins fasted LISS on the stairs 4 x mornings a week, however, will be reversing out of this post my recent comp.
What are your favorite clean foods and splurge foods?
I love salmon, asparagus, and sweet potato! My fave splurge would definitely have to be cookies!!!
If you were trapped on an island, what 3 things would you bring with you?
phone, water, and dog to keep me company haha
What is the craziest thing you’ve ever done?
Probably the time I decided to jump on a plane and compete in America – I decided 4 weeks from the show date that I would fly in, compete and come home. Literally woke up one day, booked it all without even thinking about it haha. My only regret is that I didn’t stay to explore!!! So I’ll be back.
What tips do you have for a beginner at the gym?
Do not be scared of the weights room or asking questions. Most people in gyms are more than encouraging and willing to offer tips.
Invest time and money into educating yourself. Hire a Personal Trainer or a coach, ASK questions! So that you can learn to do it on your own. Investing in yourself and learning about your body is one of life’s most valuable lessons/journey’s.
So, what’s next for you? Are you going to the WBFF Worlds next?
I really want to make an impact on my pro debut. I want to make some significant changes too, so I will be aiming for a Pro/Am show to debut at and then move onto worlds after that as I want to bring a competitive package to the (WBFF) World stage.
More about Tahlia Christou:
Height: 158cm / 5’2″
Weight: 52kg / 114 lbs.
Born In: Australia
Resides: Gold Coast, Australia
Website: www.tahliachristou.com
Facebook: facebook.com/tahliachristoupersonaltraining
Instagram: @tahliachristou
Photos by: ABC Creative / @abccreative
Swimwear by @kl_swimwear
