Nicole Moneer Guerrero is a Top 5 nationally and Top 10 internationally ranked PRO fitness competitor and fitness model, as well as a skilled personal trainer and educator. 2009 Ms. Bikini Universe Champion Nicole Guerrero has been featured Planet Muscle, Fisico y Fitness, Sauced Chicago Magazine, Oxygen Magazine, Almost Famous Magazine, Ms. Fitness Magazine, Iron Man Magazine and Fitness Experts Magazine. Nicole in her busy schedule took some time out to interview with me and to share some tips with you about how you can best train for the lifestyle and fitness competition.

Q. How did you get started as a fitness model?

A. It fell in my lap. At fitness competitions there are always photographers looking to shoot. I slowly built my portfolio from this. I then submitted my work and got some jobs from that. Also, while competing as a fitness model I got scouted for various modeling jobs. You never know who’s watching while you are on stage and in the spotlight so always look and be your best.

Q. As a fitness model what is the most important part of your diet?

A. Eating clean (no sugar or processed foods) and keeping my diet balanced so I have energy throughout the day. I do this year round so for me dieting for competition is actually pretty easy and I do not have to change my eating routine. However, 2 weeks before showtime I always tighten up my diet even more. Obviously, the stricter I am the harder following my diet plan becomes.

Q. The majority of girls living on pageant planet do not lift weights for the fear of getting too big? Is this a justifiable fear? How much weightlifting do you incorporate in your training?

A. I lift weights more than I do cardio. I incorporate weight training about 5 times per week. There should be NO FEARS! I have been lifting in the weight room for 16 years and I am NOT big. I lift heavy, too. You have to lift heavy weights in order to change your body fat into lean body mass. For me working out is about maintenance, I don’t really have an off-season where I pack on the pounds.

Q. What basic weightlifting exercises can girls competing in pageantry preform in order to prepare for the lifestyle and fitness competition?

A. When preparing for the lifestyle and fitness competition in pageantry basic weightlifting would need to include every major muscle group. Many girls in pageantry spot train…meaning they just workout their legs and thighs…you gotta hit all areas of the body for perfect symmetry and to get a 10 in swimsuit.

Check out Nicole’s nutritional recipes to jump start your diet and new fitness regimen. And if you live in the Chicago area Nicole is also available for personal training sessions.