Interview with Roseanne Venturino

Inspirational Interview of the Month - July 2010




Interviewed by: Tammy Renee'


Roseanne Venturino's hometown is Brooklyn, NY. She is a wife to a wonderful man and a mother to beautiful children. She works as a Certified Personal Trainer and Group Fitness Instructor in Staten Island. NY. She is hard working, determined, and dedicated. And, not to forget to mention, very self-motivated! Her strong believe in staying committed and passionate about her goals has lead her to the road she is on now. She comes from a very difficult past and have learned that there is light at the end of the tunnel. She has found that light through fitness. It has changed her mindset, as well as, her physique. Her intention in this industry is to help others realize that by adopting a healthy lifestyle, they, too, can change their perspective on life, especially when there is tragedy or difficult times.

"I have both mentally and physically changed over the years. Exercising and a healthy lifestyle play a large part in that change. I feel that I have been empowered to help others through my own experiences. I honestly feel that experience is your greatest teacher. I have become wiser, stronger minded, and disciplined. I feel we all have something to teach someone and we should be heard. We can affect someone. This has become very important to me."


WP: Congratulations on being our ‘Inspiration of the Month’. How does it feel to be considered for such a title?

Thank you very much. To be considered "Inspiration of the Month brings tears to my eyes. It brings a great sense of pride and gratitude. It’s a beautiful feeling to be acknowledged for what I stand for.

WP: Well, you truly deserve it! How long have you been in the fitness industry?

I have been in the fitness industry for more than half my life. It has become a lifestyle for me and has served as a coping mechanism as well as enjoyment.

WP: What made you decide to get into the fitness industry?

My decision to get into the fitness industry was shortly after I lost my mother to cancer. I was nineteen years old and faced with the loss of the most important person in my life. I realized then that I had to rely on myself for most of my future decisions. Not only was my mom a wonderful mother, loved by many, she was the warmest, most helpful, caring human being who left an impression upon anyone that was lucky enough to meet her. She is still so much missed and in the thoughts of so many to this day. I am frequently reminded.

I was the youngest of five children; my father grew very dependent on me because I was still living at home. I had a lot of anxiety, sadness and anger that needed to be channeled in a healthy direction. I realized I was not as carefree as my friends at the time, I felt very lost. I decided to join a gym. Exercise became my outlet. I felt as though I could take on the world after my workouts. I began to feel less tense and clearer minded. There was a returned self confidence that I had not felt in a while. Things began to look brighter and I was starting to see the world a bit more optimistically. The gym had become a part of my daily routine. My father noticed the changes in me, both mentally and physically. He was happy that I had found something to enjoy. My dad was a heavy smoker and was diagnosed with emphysema. He died five years after my mother. The loss of both parents at such crucial times in my life was truly a test of my inner strength. I could have gone either way, become a stronger person or give into weakness.

WP: Wow! What a story! But, look how you turned out. What is your educational background? What are your certifications?

I attended the College of Staten Island. I was in the pre-nursing program, and then switched to Hematology. I also studied business courses before becoming a mother. I realized these courses were not my true passions; fitness was my truest passion from the start. I realized I needed to start living the life I was meant to live. I studied with the National Academy of Sports Medicine and received my certification in personal training. I felt I can serve society well by helping clients achieve their own personal goals.

WP: How long have you been a personal trainer?

I have been a personal trainer for seven years. I feel so very blessed to wake up each day and do what I love. I share with my clients what fitness has done for me so they too, will keep a healthy lifestyle on a physical level as well as mental.

WP: What do you feel sets you apart from all other personal trainers out there?

What sets me apart from all other personal trainers is my genuine concern for my clients. They mean the world to me. I have developed a bond with each one of them. I encourage them when I know they can progress to the next level. I truly believe in their abilities and I help them to realize all that they are capable of so they can work to their fullest potential.

WP: Great answer! Where do you train your clients? Do you train them in a gym, at home, or where?

I train my clients at a private Country Club in Staten Island, N.Y., where I also instruct a group fitness class. I also have private in-home clients.

WP: How much time per day do you typically spend with a client?

I spend an hour with my client for the workout. Although, I also have a few that I train for a half hour, as well. It all depends on how much time their schedule allows.

WP: How many days do you suggest your clients to work out in a week?

I suggest to my clients that they should be doing cardio most days of the week, however, strength training can be done 2-3 times per week, depending on their individual goals.

WP: What helps you get up each morning?

What helps me get up each morning is the thought of taking on a new day with new possibilities, new challenges. The thought of "what's next"?

WP: What motivates you?

What motivates me is having a PURPOSE. I feel that if I can affect people in a positive way, my life is fulfilled. Training my clients and pushing them out of their comfort zone motivates me. I love to help them become aware of all that they are. I am motivated to set an example for my children. I want to show them that anything is possible at any age if you believe it is possible. I believe that commitment and dedication are huge factors in making thoughts become reality. I am motivated to become that example to them.

WP: You are so inspirational! I’ve heard you have done a lot of modeling! Please tell us about it.

Yes, I have modeled. I have been in two commercials on the beaches of the Jersey Shore for a store called "Americana by the Seashore". I also appeared in the Nautilus Woman Fitness commercial for a gym on Staten Island last summer. I have done some promotional modeling for BeBe Sport for the "Be Fit" Club. Currently, I am with Cathy Savage Fitness PBO Model Program.

WP: So, I’m talking to a celebrity in this industry! Wow! That is wonderful! Who have you worked with?

I have met with Gilad Janclowicz and Cathe Fredricks for the Fitness Challenge in Short Hills, N.J., for a public workout at the mall to encourage a fit lifestyle.

WP: What are your goals?

My goals in the fitness industry are infinite. My intention is to inspire all those disheartened, overweight, depressed individuals to realize there is a light at the end of the tunnel. I want to reach out to them with my story and help them to transform their lives as I have done. I want them to realize how turning to fitness and a healthy lifestyle can turn bad situations into something positive. Of course it doesn't eliminate problems, but it helps to deal better with negative situations. Exercise is not just a physical alteration; to me it’s a cure-all. I want to help those that feel hopeless. There is still such a large majority of the population that does not exercise. I feel for those who haven't given it a try. I would like to write articles that inspire to fitness and encourage the life of health and wellness. Another of my goals is to model fitness products as well as produce my own exercise video. My motive is to reach a larger audience through all areas and help them regain a sense of belief in themselves.

WP: How does your trainer differ when you are modeling and when you are not?

My training stays pretty consistent during the course of the year. No matter what occurs, my workouts remain constant and remain on my schedule.

WP: That is important. I like how you stated that you work-out no matter what occurs. What future projects do you have planned?

The projects I have planned are to continue with Cathy Savage Fitness Program to help further my career in fitness, I intend to put together an easy-to-follow workout video for those who want to begin a program. I plan to study and become certified in Yoga in the very near future.

WP: Do you also compete now? If so, what titles have you won. What competitions have you entered and what place did you take?

Yes, I have competed in my first figure competition this past April at the Fitness Atlantic in Connecticut. I placed tenth.

WP: How does your routine and life changes when you go from pre-contest to off-season?

Well, my life had changed to a degree as I was preparing for the Show. Of course my diet was stricter, although it is not about starvation at all. I actually was eating 5 to 6 meals daily with snacks in between, healthy snacks of course! Also, my workouts became more vigorous. I am very discipline minded, so I just set my mindset to do it. It's all good!

WP: What do you like and dislike about competing?

What I liked about competing was the fact that it forces shyness away. I felt that by doing this competition on stage with bright lights and a packed audience, I was just going to have to face and overcome another fear. This was a good thing, a sense of fulfillment. It was about letting go of inhibitions and realizing that I'm here for a reason, I represent fitness. I loved it and I was very happy to have competed. It was a wonderful, positive experience.

WP: What would you change about the judges in the competitions?

I would not change a thing about the judges in the competitions. They are there to do their job. I respect that and I respect their decisions as well.

WP: What federation do you compete in?

I competed in the Fitness Atlantic Competition in East Haven, Connecticut. It's an independent federation. Brian Cannone is the promoter who runs an excellent, well planned, organized event. I commend him, he's a class act. I have told Brian that his show was a great first impression for a newcomer and a lasting impression as well.

WP: Are you aiming for a pro-card? If so, tell me what you are planning to reach your goal.

Honestly, I became involved with Cathy Savage Fitness Program to help further my career in the industry. My intention was to try and get fitness modeling work. I was not involved with the program to take part in competitions, as Lindsay Messina knows, "it wasn't on my agenda to compete" Ha-ha. But I might add, now that I have competed, I realize there are no negatives to the sport. Competing has made me much more confident and sure of myself. I am so thrilled to have competed. It has helped me become aware of all that I'm capable of and reminded me that I can achieve anything I set out to do. As far as a pro-card? Sure, of course I would love to earn my pro-card. I will continue to work hard and see what the future brings.

WP: From your past contest, what have you learned you need to correct or work on for the physique you are aiming for?

From preparing for my competition, I worked very hard to get a lean, strong body. Maybe I need to build my quads a bit more for the next show and definitely more posing practice. Yes, posing needs to be nailed, it’s crucial. Practice, practice and more practice.

WP: What are your strengths and weaknesses in your physique? How are you attempting to correct them?

My strengths in my physique are my back and shoulders; I have a very strong upper body. My weakness can be my stomach. I incorporate core exercises in every workout, it’s crucial for keeping a tight, toned midsection.

WP: What problems have you had as far as staying motivated and disciplined to stick with your workouts?

As far as staying motivated with my workouts, there is never a problem. I have put fitness as a top priority for many years. It is just a part of my routine, as brushing my teeth. I have always been self motivated for exercise and I never needed to be encouraged to do so.

WP: What problems did you have to overcome in order to stay on track with your fitness program?

I never had to overcome problems to stay with my fitness program. My problems actually brought me to it. I was lucky enough to incorporate fitness at a young age. During pregnancy, I did have to lower the intensity a bit, although exercise was still on my agenda.

WP: What keeps fitness interesting to you?

Fitness has always and will always be interesting to me. There will always be more information and knowledge to learn. It has always been my love in life. It helped me grow strong in all areas. This is what I want the public to know. I want the same for you. Where there is weakness, you will find strength, where there is sadness, you will begin to feel happier, where there is self doubt, and you will gain confidence. I can't say enough about fitness. It is the key to your mental health, although most people just see the physical benefits.

WP: Tell me something about yourself that no one else knows. It is just between us, no one else will know. Ha-ha.

Something no one else knows about me is that I used to smoke cigarettes before I turned to the fitness life. It is a terrible habit. Thank goodness it is so negatively advertised much more these days as a deterrent, especially for the youth.

WP: That is a great accomplish! How have you, mentally and physically, changed over the years?

I have both mentally and physically changed over the years. Exercising and a healthy lifestyle play a large part in that change. I feel that I have been empowered to help others through my own experiences. I honestly feel that experience is your greatest teacher. I have become wiser, stronger minded, and disciplined. I feel we all have something to teach someone and we should be heard. We can affect someone. This has become very important to me.

Physically I have gotten much leaner. My diet does not contain any processed foods. I allow myself healthy snacks although I do not overindulge. Healthy eating became a way of life. I enjoy choosing healthy foods. It is all about what you get used to.

WP: Any shout outs?

Of course! I would like to say I love you to my awesome family in Staten Island, my siblings in NY and NJ and to my great friends in Brooklyn and Staten Island. Also, I would like to say I love you to my clients who have a very special place in my heart.

WP: Who had the most impact on you in your life thus far?

My family has the most impact in my life. My intention is to set a healthy example. They are now aware of the significance of eating healthy and incorporating exercise. I instilled this in my children throughout their toddler years. I have always said, “If you start the day eating junk, you will feel like junk". They understand this now.

WP: What were you like in high school?

In high school I was a bit of a rebel. I went to an all-girl Catholic High School and the first couple of years I was very rebellious. I guess I had to get it out of my system...ha- ha. By the time junior year came around I had matured a great deal and came to the realization that in order to get respect you have to give respect. Those transitional teenage years were filled with insecurities and trying to figure out who I was and what I wanted. I was always athletic, I was on the track team and the gymnastics team as well. I was always very conscientious about studying. There was actually a time that I had brought my science textbook to hang out with friends. I never lived that one down either...ha-ha. I just never liked to fail anything if I could help it.

WP: If I were to open your fridge and kitchen cabinets, what would I find in them?

If you were to open my fridge you would find Chobani Greek Yogurt ( my favorite), red grapes, strawberries, bananas, hummus, lettuce, cucumbers, avocado, apples, blackberries, blueberries, kiwi, tomatoes, spinach, broccoli rabe, sweet potatoes, chicken. In my cabinets you will find Quinoa, CousCous, brown rice, whole wheat pasta, almonds, raisins, granola, wheat germ, whole wheat English muffins, Smart Balance peanut butter, chick peas, rice cakes, and protein powder.

WP: You do eat healthy! If I were to walk into your house and have a look around, what type of fitness equipment would I find?

If you walked into my basement you would find a boxer's bag with gloves and a jump rope (my personal favorite workout). I have body bars, a variety of free weights, resistance bands, a bosu, platform step, medicine balls, a stability ball and a balance board. You do not need to have an entire gym set up in your basement to stay fit.

WP: I love asking those questions! What are your hobbies outside of fitness?

My hobbies outside of fitness are enjoying intimate dinners with my family on Sundays; this is how we catch up with each other. I enjoy playing tennis and I find joy in writing.

WP: Where are you going from here? What are your future goals for your career, this industry, and your physique?

My future goals for my career are hopefully do some fitness modeling for workout wear, or sport products. I am getting ready to compete in another competition in October, going from the figure division to bikini division, in my hometown, Brooklyn, NY. I plan to create and easy to follow exercise video. I would also love to write various fitness/health articles that inspire others. I am also planning to get certified in Yoga, as well.

WP: How do you make time for yourself? How do you relax and hide from the stress of the world?

I make time for myself by getting to the gym or at-home work out to de-stress. I also love to meditate and find a peaceful state of mind. I keep a vision board which keeps me on track with my goals; I created a board with all that I plan to achieve. It is important to have your dreams and goals set out in front of you, it is my life planner and it keeps me focused and motivated to live with purpose and intention,

WP: I have heard a lot of positive stuff about Cathy Savage Fitness. What do you think about her program?

Cathy Savage Fitness is a wonderful program for anyone wanting to change their physique or enter the fitness modeling and competition world. It is a great program to help you progress in the fitness industry. It will help you with all of your goals in fitness. The management is outstanding. I am so grateful to be a part of the Cathy Savage Fitness PBO program. Your fitness goals and dreams can come true with the help of this wonderful managing company! Check it out!

WP: Tell me about your family. You are also married. Can you tell me more about them?

I have a wonderful husband who has always been a true friend to me. He was once a professional baseball player and has lived out his passion. This helps him to understand my passion for fitness. I have three, teenaged beautiful children whom I hope to inspire and encourage finding their true passions so that they can love what they do in life and enjoy a sense of fulfillment with their careers.

WP: How do you feel you have improved you and your life?

I have improved my life tremendously by adopting a healthy lifestyle. Where there was weakness, there is strength, where there was darkness, there is light, where there was chaos, there is a sense of calm, where there is pessimism, there is now optimism. I can go on and on with how fitness has changed my life for the better.

WP: The interview is coming to a close now. Is there anything that you would like to add prior the end of the interview?

I would like to add that exercise has so many positive benefits for the human system. It has become my coping mechanism from a young age. My intention is to reach out to a larger audience. My clients are already aware of the power of exercise. We all have choices in life. Make fitness your choice and change your life. It has made a believer out of me and I'm so thankful. It is a wise choice!

WP: We are delighted to have you featured as our ‘Inspiration of the Month’. Thank you for taking the time out to hold this interview with us. We wish you the best of luck in the future. See you in the fall magazine issue!

Thank you so much, it was my pleasure.