May 1, 2007

Doug Schneider Interviews Stacey-Lynn Mlinarevic

Doug Schneider: The first time I met you was in April of 2005 at the OPA Stratford Championships and the Sportlab Model Search. They were both held the same day, and you won both competitions. Was that the first time you competed?

Stacey-Lynn Mlinarevic: It was the first time I competed in the Ontario Physique Association. For the two years prior to that, I competed with the World Natural Sport Organization (WNSO) in the Fitness Model Search and Musclemania bodybuilding divisions.

DS: How long had you been weight training before then, and how did you get started?

SLM: I had my foot in the door in weight training for many years, but I developed a real passion for it five years ago. I started reading books on effective training and eating. It has helped me to transform my body to what it is today.

Shortly after I began training seriously, people started coming up to me and asking me if I was a bodybuilding competitor, so I became interested in competitions and modeling. I attended as many shows as possible. I secretly wished that I could be one of those beautiful girls onstage or in the magazines. Finally, I felt that it was time to have a goal in life and to give up the chocolate and get ready to compete. I knew that I needed to take my training to another level, so I decided to hire the personal training services of TEAMOBRIEN. They have helped me add quality muscle and definition.

DS: Do you mind telling people how old you are?

SLM: I turned 30 on November 23, 2006.

DS: You’ve done quite well in figure competitions. After that Stratford competition, I believe you went on to win your class provincially at the OPA National Qualifier (Natural Ontarios) and the OPA Provincial Championships. You’ve also competed nationally a couple of times, placing second at the 2005 CBBF National World Qualifier. Have you been happy with what you’ve done in figure competitions?

SLM: I have been extremely happy with my results in figure competitions. Especially in the short period of time that I have been involved.

DS: You’ve also done a bit of fitness modeling – particularly for us here at SeriousAboutFitness.com. Which do you prefer, competing or modeling, and why?

SLM: I really enjoy both, because competing brings out my competitive edge and modeling shows my fun and sexy side.

DS: You’ve been one of our most popular models. I am often asked to "get more pictures of Stacey-Lynn." Do people ever come up to you in public and speak to you?

SLM: Many times, especially because I’m a personal trainer. Surprisingly enough, I thoroughly enjoy it, because it gives me a chance to help other people attain their fitness goals.

DS: Most people don’t know that two important things have happened to you in the last six months or so. Can you explain?

SLM: On September 30, 2006, I married the man of my dreams. Currently, I’m six months pregnant – our first child is due July 14. We are both extremely excited about it.

DS: How is all this going to affect your competing and modeling?

SLM: Obviously with the pregnancy I’m putting on a few pounds; however, I look at this as another challenge to get back into competition and modeling shape. I have not set a timeline yet for my return, but you can definitely expect to me onstage and in photo shoots in the near future.

DS: Are you exercising much during your pregnancy?

SLM: Training during pregnancy is such an important thing – it helps your energy levels, posture, sleeping, the imbalance of an enlarging abdomen, backache reduction, and swelling of the hands and feet. It also allows for fewer complications, easier delivery, and less "postpartum belly."

DS: Do you have any role models in the fitness industry?

SLM: One major role model of mine in the fitness industry is Mindi O’Brien. Having her by my side has helped me achieve my goals in figure competitions and fitness modeling.

DS: Do you see yourself as a role model for other women?

SLM: I’m sure that some people look up to me, as I have been quite successful in a short period of time. Often, new competitors and people at the gym will ask, "How did you get so far so fast?" I try to give the best advice I can, but in the end it all comes down to proper training, dieting, and dedication.

DS: What’s your ultimate goal in terms of what you’d like to accomplish in competing and fitness modeling?

SLM: I have many goals for the future, but my ultimate goal in competing and fitness modeling is to get my IFBB Pro Card and eventually compete with the elite figure athletes in IFBB, and maybe even have my own website.

DS: You’re one of our SAF Elite models and, as I mentioned, you won the first Sportlab Model Search. Right now there are some women preparing for our first SAF Model Search. What advice can you give them if they are nervous about competing?

SLM: There is a lot of time and preparation involved, but you meet many like-minded people along the way and you can learn a lot from them. At the end of it, the entire process is rewarding; but most important, have fun!

DS: How do you feel about the exposure that you've received from our publication, and what advice can you give to someone who might be thinking about entering our SAF Model Search in the hopes that they can get exposure?

SLM: I feel very honored and blessed to have received the exposure from the SeriousAboutFitness.com-related sites. My advice is that you need a personality! I truly believe that if you are a genuine person inside, it will shine through. A smile can go a long way. I also believe that a fitness model should work out and love the concept of health and fitness, meeting new people, and eating right. Plus, having a great attitude will get you far.

DS: Thanks Stacey.

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