Jacques & Angelique Van Der Linde
WPM's Rising Star(s) of the Month - July 2011
Interviewed by: Mike Hall
First Ever South African Interview: International Fitness Couple "Jacques & Angelique Van Der Linde from JVL" share their road to victory with World Physique.
This married fitness power team has become a worldwide phenomenon. Known for their fitness and lifestyle boutiques and distribution hubs situated across SA, this couple has taken the fitness industry by storm. They have certainly succeeded in placing South Africa on the map and their success story is aimed at changing lifestyles, sculpting results and reaching new goals!
We couldn't pick just one! So, we interviewed both!
Get prepared to meet an unbreakable, dedicated, motivating pair!
"...Strong, stronger...and unbeatable! This industry pushes you beyond you strengths, it demands dedication that you might have never discovered if it wasn't for the industry, but when you realize that the battle is always half won if you compete with yourself, then you will persevere, raise above all odds and walk out stronger, better and more fierce every time around!"
WP: We’ve never had two winners in one category before. But, since you both are a team and deserve it, we had to pick you both. Congratulations on winning our “Rising Star of the Month”. How does it feel to be considered for such a title?
Besides being ecstatic in being recognized by your supreme brand, we have to admit that being the very first South African’s to be acknowledged by the World Physique group, is just really something to “tick” off our bucket lists. This fitness industry has really led us to so many dreams becoming a reality and we are truly humbled by this prestigious honour!
WP: Can you tell our readers a little about you both and your company?
We own wellness and lifestyle boutique franchises – JVL Wellness and Lifestyle Centres, above all other things. We share this passion for wellness and the vision for the future is to present JVL to the world as a leader in the wellness industry. Advising people on nutrition, supplementation and other related fitness apparel is so rewarding. We deal with success stories daily, how encouraging! Our clients motivate and inspire us!
As mentioned, the JVL brand is a young corporate, focused wellness brand associated with all aspects related to health and fitness. We have been actively involved in launching our own fitness clothing range, and this has been such a rewarding new challenge. We keep our clients updated through online training advice, our own “fitness radio station” on the web, blogs and so much more. People admire our “we believe in your success” attitude, as we really do! This is what makes the brand different to others and sets us apart from the rest.
WP: How long have you been in the fitness industry?
Angel: I was an overweight and frustrated dancer until about the age of 18 and I just had enough of yo-yo dieting without seeing any results. I think the fitness bug bit at the right time and I became desperate to see results. I started meditating on the positive aspects of my physique and doing training that motivated a change in my lifestyle. I qualified as a Group Training Instructor in 2000 and started giving fitness classes at this time. This really helped me to stay training even on those “off” days (my clients really motivate me) and I have just never stopped since. This industry keeps me focused and excited for the next stage appearance. Just keep keeping on! The moment I saw what this type of training did to my physique, I was hooked and I started competing in 2006.
Jacques: Sports has always been my reason for pursuing a healthy lifestyle. After a rugby injury I became actively involved in the modeling industry. Very soon I became too muscular for this and I was introduced to the health and fitness industry. I stepped into the corporate field with the opening of my first fitness retail outlet at age 20. My first show was in 2005, and since reaching Pro status I have never looked back.
WP: What health and fitness qualifications do you have?
Angel: After being sick and tired of people giving me the wrong advice for my body-type I decided I wanted to solve this mystery question of weight loss for once and for all. Becoming a qualified fitness coach made me understand my body, health and external happiness in a completely different way. The qualification as a GTI instructor entailed aerobics training, anatomy, nutrition, kinesiology, sports injuries and so much more. I recently qualified as a Pregnancy training specialist which opened an entire new world for me. Fit mommies are just so inspiring to me especially if you understand what these hot “mamas” have to go through to keep in shape. Doing Sports Law as one of my chosen specialities in the field of Law has shown to be a great benefit to my credentials. Name it I’ve done it, love it and live it!
Jacques: I have a degree in Sports and recreational sciences. By background in nutrition has led me to become excessively intrigued by getting people healthy and looking good at the same time. Nutrition is the building block for any toned physique and this is really where it all starts. I love to try out different methods of eating on myself and my wife and I am always amazed by how the smallest change can make the world of a difference. My background in training, nutrition and supplementation has actually evolved into a Fitness Empire by which I am humbled when knowing what I have built over the years.
WP: How long have you been a personal trainer?
Angel: I’ve been a personal trainer for 11 years.
Jacques: I’ve been one for 13 years.
WP: What do you feel sets you apart from all other personal trainers out there?
Angel: My workouts are hardcore; G.I Jane style! I love mixing up very light weight training with full-on cardio segments in between. I change my workouts daily and try to never stick to the same method. I really sweat, scream and cry with every one of my clients. When they fail, I become desperate in believing that they can succeed the next time. There is no place for failure in my studio, you get up and try again! No-one was meant to be fat or unhealthy. I am committed to their health and I believe that this is where I make a difference in my client’s lives!
Jacques: I live by what I teach! My technique is unlike any other and I believe that my clients see tremendous results fast. My aim is not to try and train them as heavy as possible, but it is rather to focus on disciplined form and mind-set e.g. pushing the muscle and not necessarily the weights. The muscle mind connectivity is vital and my clients get educated by my method each day. I keep my clients focussed throughout every set as I know that the strongest muscle is by far the mind. By keeping my clients educated on nutrition and new training methods, motivated and with them knowing that I am there every step of the way, my results speak for themselves.
WP: Where do you guys train your clients? Do you train them in a gym, at home, or where?
Angel: I give training classes all over. My own studio is my little sanctuary of fitness. With photos scattered all around, this place keeps me focussed on where I need to be. I think that the fact that I’m a very motivated and positive person, shows in my classes and this attitude inspires the wonderful people I train, to live a life of success and to overcome any obstacles in life! My ladies usually become dear friends of mine are their wellness is my sole purpose in each class.
Jacques: On the internet via our websites. http://www.itrainer.co.za via the wellness segment. This is a great new venture for us and also a first ever in the world!
WP: How much time per day do you typically spend with a client?
Angel: I am such a gym addict! I try to train twice a day for about 45minutes at a time for 4 days a week and the rest of the week once a day until Saturday. When I train clients, it’s usually for an hour.
WP: How many days do you suggest your clients to work out in a week?
Angel: As many as it takes! We truly believe that this depends on each individual client and on how fast they want to see results.
WP: What helps you guys get up each morning?
The thought of chasing a new dream every day, is a great motivational factor for us. We are such visual people and love watching YouTube video’s full of inspirational quotes, lots of sweat and some great new and fresh moves!
WP: What motivates you two?
RESULTS! Our clients are such a motivational factor for us, just as we are for them. This industry does not allow you an off-season and it is a great weapon to have a strong mind in this game. Jacques and I keep each other focused and determined to reach our next goals. We both have such strong minds and we live by the saying to just never settle.
WP: You both model. Can you tell me about it?
Yes, we both do. We have done countless amounts of photo shoots and television appearances. The most enjoyable shoots are, without a doubt, the one’s we get to do together. Being a married couple, we share a great chemistry in front of the camera and we really know each other so well. This is always such a “plus” when doing a shoot.
WP: Who have you worked with?
Top Billing (the biggest TV lifestyle show in South Africa), Fitness Magazine (have done 3 covers for them), Muscle evolution Magazine, Get it Magazine, Liana Louzon-Saadi, Kevin Mark, Pass, Roger Wells, GW Burns, and countless websites.
WP: We love Liana and GW. Great photographers! What are you goals?
We would love to do our very first cover TOGETHER!
WP: How does your training differ when you are modelling and when you are not?
Our training stays similar all through the year. We do, however, raise the intensity a bit during competition season.
WP: What future projects do you have planned?
We have a few shoots and PR work lined up before planning to visit the States again in August. A fitness show is also in the PR structure.
WP: Talking about fitness shows, you both compete. What titles have you won?
Angel: In 2008, I was the winner in Miss Bikini Exergise South Africa. Also in 2010, we were the winners of the couples division at FAME World Championships in Las Vegas. I was the winner in Bikini Division at the Fitness America Pageant and placed 2nd in the Figure line-up at the Fitness America Pageant.
Jacques: In 2006 thur 2008, I won Mr. SA Physique for 3 years in a row and 3rd At Fame Worlds. In 2010, we were the winners of the couples division at FAME World Championships in Las Vegas and placed 2nd at FAME Worlds.
WP: Angel, how did you change your [physique so quick after competing in the Bikini line-up going straight into the Figure division?
Angel: This is where the trick comes in. It is such a mathematical and precise game plan to follow. My hubby is brilliant with helping my body peak the right time. I had so many ladies begging me to tell them the secret to my diet seeing that I was eating fillet and “gummy sweets” whilst on my competition diet. In the bikini line-up you have to be small, petite, lady-like and with a bit of definition. So before this division it was strict, no-cheating with a very high protein intake without cutting out all of my carbs. As I got off the stage, Jacques was standing ready with an extra-large packet of M & M’s for me to devour! (But before you get completely discouraged) I have to mention, I could only have a specific amount at a time. Agh! The sugar serves the sole purpose of “pumping” up those muscles and elevating all the veins to the surface of the skin. The photos look like two different physiques, but be warned that if you do not do this the right way it can all turn out horribly wrong. All in moderation!
WP: Interesting. What do you like and dislike about competing?
We love the electric energy of so many individuals sharing the same craft. We love the wellness lifestyle, but the intense low calorie diets before a show is a bit strenuous sometimes.
WP: What would you change about the judges in the competitions?
Unity and same standards for each division would be welcomed.
WP: What federations do you both compete in?
We compete in FAP, Fame, and WBFF.
WP: From your past contests, what have you learned you need to correct or work on for the physique you are aiming for?
Angel: My aerobics method of training is something I completely believe in. With a blessed high muscle tone my body reacts extremely well by mixing cardio with light weight training. This prevents an overkill of muscle building and the aim of a lean physique is achieved. I have found that this fit, fab and fabulous way of training sculpt great results for the ladies that I train as well. A workout should start with you looking like a true fitness model and it should end with you drenched in sweat! Train hard or go home! So for me I have learnt to keep my diet extremely “clean”, my mind 100% focused and doing countless hours of cardio to keep my physique looking tight but tiny! Abs are made in the kitchen but Jacques taught me that does not mean that the correct exercises are not necessary. I have learnt to train my abs as a muscle group on their own, and the results have really been phenomenal.
Jacques: Getting denser, harder, more defined in symmetry and growing day-by-day!
WP: What are your strengths and weaknesses in your physique? How are you attempting to correct them?
We tend to stay clear of this thought, we all have something that we have to live with but that is not to say that you have to become focused on just that. We make time for placing ourselves on our to-do lists and working with what you have and making that the best, so that your strengths over-shines your weakness! No-one will even notice your weakness if you just follow this best kept secret.
WP: What problems have you had as far as staying motivated and disciplined to stick with your workouts?
Time! That has been the only obstacle! Being two business owners in one household can keep you rather busy at times. We make a point of placing ourselves on our to-do lists and training is a way in which we really spend quality time together, however strange it might sound! So this perspective on the obstacle actually assists us in overcoming this with a positive outlook.
WP: What problems did you have to overcome in order to stay on track with your fitness program?
Jacques: Angel was quite unfortunate to fell sick on the way to Las Vegas in 2010. Combine this with jet-lag…and well, I guess you get a gold medal, since we won regardless! Needless to say, I had to carry all her bags and she enjoyed a ride through customs in a luxurious wheelchair! We thought that this was the end of our trip. But I guess we just really wanted to bring back the gold to SA! You just can’t keep a champ down!
If all the hard work gets done long in advance, then your body will sustain its form throughout illness, keep your mind strong and the rest will fall into place.
WP: What keeps fitness interesting to you?
They say; “our biggest fear is not that we are inadequate, but rather that we are powerful beyond measure.” With every competition preparation you realize how strong you actually are and it is inspiring to know that you can have more discipline, become stronger and be better at anything as long as you believe it. Fitness is a mind, body and spirit sport and the competition lies within you in keeping this formula intact.
WP: Tell me something about yourself that no one else knows. It’s just between us, no one else will know. Ha-ha.
Ok, so here is the thing...we are not twins! Hee-hee. We get mistaken for this on numerous occasions.
Angel: This might sound a bit insane, but I woke up the one morning in Vegas with such jet-lag. What better time to train than 3h00 in the morning? I did a full on aerobics class in the hallways of the Monte Carlo Hotel overlooking the strip! Regardless to say, sprints in a posh hotel gets a lot of attention, but I got a great workout!
WP: How have you, mentally and physically, changed over the years?
Strong, stronger...and unbeatable! This industry pushes you beyond your strengths, it demands dedication that you might have never discovered if it wasn’t for the industry. When you realize that the battle is always half won if you compete with yourself, then you will persevere, raise above all odds and walk out stronger, better and more fierce every time around!
WP: Any shout outs?
So, so, so, many!
Firstly to World Physique, your brand is a leader in the industry and we are in awe when thinking of this privilege.
Secondly, to our families, friends, JVL clients and JVL staff; you are the one’s cheering us on when no-one else is watching and we will be unable to follow our dreams if it was not for you.
To all of our American leaders and supporters; Jennifer Nicole Lee, Cathy Savage and so many more, we have learnt a great deal from you and your belief in us has been encouraging in our journey.
To Fitness Magazine, Roger Wells, All SA show organizers and supporters, your support has helped us to place SA on the world stage!
WP: What were you like in high school?
Angel: Picture this; the skinny fat girl with braces with a torn mentality between Academics and Musical Theatre, fitness was never an option as I believed that I was the “big-boned” one with dancing just being in my background for fun! I loved the stage, but academics were the logical choice to focus on. I was always a leader in school and if I could go back to school today, I would love to express my passion toward young girls who sit with the same problem I faced in school. You choose who you want to become!
So, I still get overwhelmed when I look at my stage photos, my mindset changed my life.
Jacques: I grew into my physique, literally! I was always super athletic, but my muscular development only came later in life. I had my eye set on becoming an architect. My path in life was carved out for me and how many people can say that they wake up every morning living their dream?! My passion for sports has been clear from the very beginning due to my early successes on the rugby and athletic field. Sport formed my life and I have a great respect for the devotion to the craft that it demands.
WP: Please describe a typical day for you. What is your daily routine like?
Our lives are so similar! We wake up to go do a power training session.
Depending on the day of the week, it’s either off to the JVL Wellness & Lifestyle head office for Jacques and me, or we will attend scheduled consultation visits at one of our retail shops.
When I have scheduled meetings, I will head off to my law firm or to court for the day.
In the afternoon we will head back to training and then we spend quality time at home, either working together or just relaxing.
WP: If I were to open your fridge and kitchen cabinets, what would I find in them?
A lot of oats and raisins, almond nuts, fruit, supplements in every cabinet, eggs, fillet…hee-hee, chocolates!
WP: Step away from the chocolate. Ha-ha! If I were to walk into your house and have a look around, what type of fitness equipment would I find?
Name it, we have it! Weights, aerobics balls, “hula-hoops”, mats, thorough bands, steps, and SPEEDROPES!
Angel: Jacques loves picking me up and showing me that he is indeed the stronger “sex”! Show off! But as my muscles grow, I know that I will have my day!
WP: What are your hobbies outside of fitness?
Ah, we hate this question because the answer is so annoying; TRAINING! It gives us a sense of fulfillment and we are at our happiest when we can TRY beat each other with push-ups! We work so hard in the week and when we have time, we just keep to ourselves and enjoy each other’s company by watching DVD’s and brainstorming on future plans!
With our schedule…mmmm actually…sleeping! We recently tried out these new “bouncy shoes” that we started selling; we can run on these for hours on end, and it is just such a laugh watching each other. Its fun, gives you a great work-out and serves as a fashion statement at the same time.
Angel: Doing television work in my spare time is something I always love doing! My days as TV presenter were one of the highlights in my life!
Jacques: I’m always busy looking for the next best thing in fitness, whether it be expansion, supplement production or imports in whatever form; a true business man at heart, I just can’t sit still. Actually, I really love going on holidays. I don’t think that qualifies as a hobby though!
WP: Where are you going from here? What are your future goals for your career, this industry, and your physique?
We would love to compete again, and again, and again! The JVL brand is our main focal point and growing this brand is just another goal for us to concur. Advising, training and encouraging fellow fitness lovers will remain our combined passion, life ambition and dedication.
Angel: I want to expand my legal career even more, cliche, but well, it is true that education will never fail you and this has been the biggest gift I have given myself, becoming educated. Fitness Life coaching is still very much on my bucket list and I would love to remain very actively involved in this industry, changing one individual at a time.
Jacques: Taking the JVL brand worldwide, competing and educating the international masses, is definitely a BIG plan, but one in the making!
WP: How do you make time for yourself? How do you relax and hide from the stress of the world?
Our lives are one fun rollercoaster!
Angel: I jump from being a very conservative attorney to being a complete gym fanatic in a matter of a few hours and Jacques is the driving force behind the JVL brand. So when we then get five minutes for ourselves, we spend it together and with Lil’ Micke (our puppy!) just soaking up some TLC while lazing around in front of the TV.
WP: How is it living in such a healthy house hold?
What a pleasure! Keeping healthy in our household is part of our normal daily routine and we don’t even think about it anymore.
Jacques: I do think the fact that I can only “cook” meat helps us keep in shape! Ha-ha! But I will say this, when we do cheat, we cheat well!
We are so compatible and absolute best friends!
WP: How do you feel you have improved you and your life?
We have really focussed on spiritual growth over the last few months, and we have come to realize that this is what really counts in life. If you are spiritually fit, then the physical fitness becomes so much easier to achieve. This will balance out your life!
We have become actively involved in launching our very own Fitness Charity Events. This is such a rewarding outreach program and being able to give back in the form of fitness and healthy living, is just a blessing in itself!
WP: We are delighted to have you both as features 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.
Click here to view Angel's full model album
Click here to view Jacques's full model album
