1. Biography
• Name: Lindsay Gleason
• Age: 27
• Height: 5’ 3”
• Weight: (Contest): 128/133 lbs.
• Weight: (Off-Season):140/143 lbs.
• Body Fat: Before: 23 % / After: 8%
• Profession: Personal Trainer/ Nutritional Consultant
2. What got you started in bodybuilding/fitness?
I began lifting weights for track and field and loved the feeling of lifting in general. I liked the challenge of pushing heavy weight and also the mind/body connection I felt when working out. I mostly did ballet in my younger years before this and enjoyed the form that accompanies the exercises—it reminds me of dance.
3. What keeps you motivated to train?
The potential I feel is within me- what I know I CAN be if I stay focused and on track.
4. What workout plan has worked best for you?
For cardio, interval training has been most helpful. I have to do plyometrics for my legs and weightless workouts. As far as my upper body goes, I train heavy.
5. What is your philosophy about cardio?
If done effectively, cardio should not take more than an hour. I would rather work on my diet than spend arduous time on this aspect of training.
6. What is your philosophy about weight training?
Squeeze the muscles and focus on form. Everybody has a different body and may respond differently from their training because of this. I think muscles need much time to recover if trained properly. Also, routines should be altered to keep the body guessing.
7. Do you prefer HIIT or steady state cardio?
HIIT.
8. What are your top 5 favorite exercises?
Walking lunges, push-up variations, squats, reverse crunches and seated overhead shoulder presses.
9. What is your philosophy about nutrition?
Be consistent with your dietary habits. Eat frequent, small meals. Practice your diet until it becomes your lifestyle and plan accordingly.
10. What nutrition plan has worked best for you?
A caloric based diet with only one to two servings of fat a day, lots of green veggies, one starchy carb a day (two depending on training), little or no fruit, no more than three to four ounces of protein at a meal.
11. What is your favorite cheat food?
Plain Hershey’s bar.
12. What is your favorite health food?
A bowl of oatmeal.
13. What supplements have given you the greatest gains?
Amino acids, protein powders, chromium for blood sugar and fish oils for joint health.
14. What does your pre and post workout nutrition consist of?
I usually eat the same everyday, regardless. I am not looking to gain muscle, rather lose it so I try to avoid carbs late in the evening. My last two meals usually just have veggies and protein so I’ll have that after working out late. I try to avoid eating fats before lifting. Possibly, I will have a plain rice cake or two before a workout if I am tired.
15. Which tools have helped you most with your nutrition and training?
Reading magazines and online information is helpful to me. I also have a related educational degree in the area so I enjoy researching these things.
16. Have online resources (social networks) helped you in your training? If so, what are they and how have they helped you?
Having friends with similar goals whom you can converse with online is a great idea. I learn new tips and ideas from my friends constantly.
17. Where is the first place you turn to when looking for training / fitness / nutrition advice?
I usually need advice when training for a show. In that case, I tend to listen to my figure coach at the time. I find that often listening to too many people can be negative in your quest—everyone has a different opinion. I would be open to contacting a coach or nutritionist on MuscleDog.com. I have coached girls myself for shows and here I am—-clearly resources are all around.
18. Who are your favorite fitness/bodybuilder competitors or role models?
Monica Brant.
19. What obstacles have you had to overcome (injury, illness, relationships, etc)?
I had two infections while training for my last show. It was tough to diet on antibiotics because I felt bloated, tired and discouraged. My body was stressed and I wanted to give up but didn’t. During my first show ever, I was in a verbally abusive relationship and found that I needed more support. Being a tough cookie is important when training! I hung in there, ditched the boyfriend and continued with my goals. The new people I welcome into my life are supportive of me!
20. What was the biggest mistake you made when you first started training?
I would say underestimating my potential to build mass. Some women DO put on muscle easily, although I must say it is usually the exception to the rule.
21. What tips would you give to a beginner?
Hire a personal trainer. They can help you learn to lift correctly from day one.
22. What are your future fitness goals?
To compete next year at six to seven percent body fat and maintain a lower off-season weight.
23. Where can we find you on MuscleDog.com?
My MuscleDog ID is Gleas! Check out my profile and be sure to add me as a friend when you find me. On there you can see my stats, my photos and more!