Ashley Katz
WPM's Rising Star of the Month - December 2011
Interviewed by Mike H.
Nominated by: Tim Gorham
Ashley is a WBFF Bikini Pro, Digital Marketing Coordinator for Complete Nutrition, Fitness Coach (with an emphasis in weight loss) and most importantly just a normal girl from the Midwest.
She grew up in Fremont, NE, which is just outside of Omaha. She was always relatively fit in high school and college. She was on the dance team, so staying active was an everyday occurrence. It wasn't until last year that she really got a handle on what being fit meant. She was like a lot of women today, she didn't want to lift heavy, she would skip meals, etc. She came across some articles by Jamie Eason and Amanda Adams and became hooked!! As she learned more and started to see the results that she was after, she realized that she had suddenly started to inspire a lot of her friends to get fit! When she received her first email from a woman in the U.K. and helped her lose some stubborn fat, she knew that she had found what she wanted to do with the rest of her life; help others! "It feels so good knowing that I had a part in helping a woman succeed in a fat loss plan", said Ashley!
"I had an 'itch' to jump into the fitness industry at the end of 2010 and have transformed my life to be about all things fitness! The two shows that I have done this year have taught me a lot about what I can do for myself as well as friends, family and anyone else in my community that needed an extra bump into reaching their fitness goals. I've found that being dedicated, determined and a little feisty at times can be a great recipe for success and I want to spread that recipe to as many people as I can", stated Ashley.
"...I fell into the trap that many college students do; eating less than nutritious foods, not exercising on a regular basis, partying way too much and doing things that did not make me feel good. I had misconceptions about how to exercise and diet. I believed that the only thing that mattered was calories and cardio. Boy was I wrong! As soon as I started exercising and eating right, I realized how much more energized and alert I was; not just that, I also felt a lot better about myself."
WP: How long have you been in the fitness industry?
I have actually only been in the fitness industry for 7 months! Even though it is a short period of time, I have learned a lot and have grown as a person.
WP: What made you decide to get into the fitness industry?
It all started after admiring photos of fitness models. They came across as strong, beautiful and admirable women whom I wanted to be like. It was not like looking through a glamour magazine where women looked thin, frail and unhappy. There is a huge difference between fitness and glamour. I not only wanted to be involved in the fitness industry for my own personal gains and competition highs, but to show women that it is attractive to be strong as opposed to the inevitably accepted social norm; skinny. These norms are dangerous to one's health and mentality, which is why I think it's important to represent the other side; fitness! I hope to reflect this representation to the future generations.
Aside from that, I also love competing and all the amazing people I have met!
WP: I hear you worked with photographer Noel Daganta. Are you modeling and how it to work with him?
I have done a little modeling, mostly photo shoots to market myself as a competitor. I guess you could consider me a rookie when it comes to this! I would absolutely love to do more; practice makes perfect, right? Wait, or does practice lead to more practice? Ha!
The most notable photographer I have worked with is Noel Daganta. He worked with me and my fiance in Providence, Rhode Island when we were there for our competition. He totally ROCKS!
WP: What are you goals?
Where to start? Ha-ha. I tend to set goals on a regular basis to keep myself motivated. My initial goal stepping into the fitness industry was to get my Pro Card, which I just received on November 5, 2011 in Providence, Rhode Island during the WBFF New England Championships; my 2nd show. I was so excited that I jumped up and down like a little kid; a little embarrassing, but necessary! I tend to do silly things when I get excited.
Another goal of mine is to become published. I'd love to inspire others to follow their dreams and accomplish their goals. I have always looked up to published fitness models; they are the reason why I have accomplished so much thus far. It would be extremely rewarding for others to find me inspirational while flipping through a magazine.
WP: What future projects do you have planned?
I am currently working on a 12-week fitness and nutrition program for whoever is determined to accomplish their goals! Check out my website or shoot me an email if you are interested!
WP: How does your routine and life changes when you go from pre-contest to off-season?
During off-season, I allow myself to enjoy more of my favorite foods and add more variety to my workouts. I stay about the same weight, maybe a couple pounds difference, and also keep a consistent workout schedule and remain mindful with my eating.
WP: From your past contests, what have you learned you need to correct or work on for the physique you are aiming for?
I went into my first show with my muscles way too flat. I was extremely lean and learned that was not what they were looking for; well, for first place! So, looking more full and round was what I did for my second show, which worked for me! Carb cycling is a wonderful thing.
WP: What are your strengths and weaknesses in your physique? How are you attempting to correct them?
I try my best to appreciate my body as a whole instead of picking it apart. I will admit that my calves are a little more stubborn than I want them to be, but all together, I love my body as a whole. It is strong and one of the greatest gifts I have ever been given. Plus, if my mom found out that I did not appreciate the beautiful body she blessed me with, she wouldn't be happy! Ha-ha.
WP: Got to keep moms happy. What problems have you had as far as staying motivated and disciplined to stick with your workouts?
Honestly, my workouts have become part of my every day routine. If I miss my usual workout, I feel like something is missing out of my day. Sure, there have been days where I was less motivated, but I step back and remind myself why I am doing this in the first place. Not just to satisfy my goal-oriented personality, but because I feel good when I stick to my routine.
WP: What keeps fitness interesting to you?
My personal trainer and fiance helps keep things amusing. He is exciting to be around and adds variety to all my workouts. It is nice to have someone push you to your maximum potential and congratulate you when you have done an exceptional job! It's also interesting seeing what your body can do once you try.
WP: Any shout outs?
Of course! My fiance, Tim Gorham, who is the most amazing man in the world. He has stood behind me 110%; through the good, the bad and the ugly. I could not have asked for a better partner and best friend. Oh, and he is the best personal trainer ever! I have also turned him on to competing.
I would also like to thank my family and friends for their support. At the beginning, I think it was hard for them to comprehend why competing and the fitness industry was so important to me, but after my first show, they began to realize the significance and why it has become such a big part of my life.
My sister, Rachel Katz just because she totally rocks! Oh, and she is competing in her first show in May. So excited for her!
I also want to throw out a thank you to all the people I have never met who have told me how I have been an inspiration to them. I cannot even explain how wonderful that feels! Receiving an email or Facebook message from a stranger who is completely changed their life since they came across my picture, page or website. I love you all!
WP: What plays on your iPod?
I rock out to Eminem on a regular basis. I would love to meet him by the way!
WP: If I were to open your fridge and kitchen cabinets, what would I find in them?
PEANUT BUTTER (my favorite), rice cakes, popcorn, brown rice, Emerald cocoa roast almonds, sweet potatoes, spaghetti squash, Ezekiel bread & Ezekiel cereal, oatmeal, apples, unsweetened Vanilla Almond Milk, Walden Farms maple syrup, sugar free strawberry jam, EGGS galore, frozen vegetables (lots of bags), cottage cheese, lean ground turkey and chicken. BOOM!
WP: If I were to walk into your house and have a look around, what type of fitness equipment would I find?
I work out at the gym, so the closest thing to workout equipment you will find in my home is the stairs. Ha.
WP: What are your hobbies outside of fitness?
I love to wine & dine and go to the movies! I also enjoy helping others, so I am constantly writing emails or reading books to help educate other people about living and maintaining a HEALTHY lifestyle. Oh, I cannot forget about baking, or in other words, experimenting with recipes and turning them into a healthier alternative.
WP: Where are you going from here? What are your future goals for your career, this industry, and your physique?
I am the Digital Marketing Coordinator for Complete Nutrition, so I would like to continue growing with the company. We are growing at an extremely rapid rate, which keeps things exciting! As for my personal career, I have a website and develop weight loss and fitness programs for people who are interested in achieving their goals! I take a whole foods approach and completely stand behind the success of my programs. In the industry, I would like to meet more fitness models and enthusiasts; the people I have met so far have been so amazing! I would also like to help the WBFF with different shows and grow with the federation, while gaining sponsorships. I cannot forget to mention attending The Arnold and Olympia! There is just so much I want to do! Honestly, I cannot wait to see what the future holds.
WP: Is there anyone in your life you would like to make a special thanks to?
Yes! Tim Gorham Fitness & Six Point Self Defense for all my personal training, Complete Nutrition for my supplements, Ithinkfit Gym for their rocking facility where I train like a champ and Jeremy Beam Photography for taking some sweet photos.
WP: Tell me about your family.
I absolutely love my family. I would not be the person I am today without them. My mom has always taught me the importance of hard work and independence. She encouraged me to work for the things I wanted, which is why I got my first job when I was 11! She never swayed me away from my goals, but was always there to support me through dance, cheerleading, choir, swim team and anything else I chose to participate in. She made sure I was aware that every choice I make defines who I am and to keep my faith in God and to pray when I am feeling discouraged, upset or thankful.
My stepdad was also a huge influence who taught me that comparing myself to others and dwelling on the things I didn't have was a negative trait that only makes people look insecure and unhappy. He taught me the importance of appreciating what I do have.
My siblings just totally rock! I am really close to my sister Rachel, who blessed our family with the most beautiful baby girl 4 years ago. Love you Grace!
I am currently engaged, anticipating our marriage in September 2012! He actually proposed to me on stage at my first fitness show. My fiance, Tim is the most amazing, unique person I have ever met. I always tell him that I fell in love on our first date; I still do not think he believes me, but it is true! I have never felt so at ease and happy with someone. He has helped me through my entire fitness journey and has been nothing but supportive. He is there for me no matter what; a shoulder when I need one, a hand to help me up, a smile that calms me down, a heart the size of the ocean. I could go on and on, but you get the point! Being in love is the most amazing thing in the world. Love you sweetie!
WP: How do you feel you have improved you and your life?
I fell into the trap that many college students do; eating less than nutritious foods, not exercising on a regular basis, partying way too much and doing things that did not make me feel good. I had misconceptions about how to exercise and diet. I believed that the only thing that mattered was calories and cardio. Boy, was I wrong! As soon as I started exercising and eating right, I realized how much more energized and alert I was; not just that, I also felt a lot better about myself. Fitness has changed my whole life for the better, but I stand behind this; health and fitness should complement my life, not rule it.
WP: The interview is coming to a close now. Is there anything that you would like to add prior the end of the interview?
Thank you World Physique for this amazing opportunity! Seriously, I am jumping up a down right now because I am SO excited! All the featured athletes are truly inspirational! I am glad I can be part of it! ROCK ON!
WP: We are delighted to have you featured as our Rising Star 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.
