Kylie Semmens' bikini body, August 2012

Making her mark on the bodybuilding scene at the Fitness Expo in July by taking out first place in the Raechelle Chase Fitness Model Competition, against 44 other bikini models, Kylie says she was really surprised to win her first competition.

“I had no idea what they were looking for in a winner - especially being up against a group of girls who were all absolutely stunning. I was already feeling great for the fact that I had worked towards this goal and followed it through, so to go ahead and win was just amazing and felt like the perfect cherry on the cake.”

Kylie decided to set herself a goal of competing in the IFBB Bikini division when she started noticing improvements to her body by regular exercise and healthy eating.

 
Raechelle Chase Fitness Model Comp

The bikini division was an easy choice for Kylie as it gave her the opportunity to have some fun with her hair, make up and slip into a gorgeous bikini to show off all her hard work on stage - also being able to add a bit of character and personality to her overall performance was a key factor to getting her sexy swagger on!

Kylie said getting her swagger on was the hardest of all prep! Not wearing high-heels normally, it was a challenge to walk in them. As for the hip movement, Kylie says she was able to draw on her experience in competition dancing when she was at high school which definitely worked in her favour.

Tallking about swagger, Kylie seems to ooze plenty of confidence and natural sassiness while she's on stage.  We asked if it was something she was born with or something girls can develop?

"Some girls are born with natural confidence and some need to develop it. I think the most important thing is the self assurance in knowing that you are bringing a well condition look to the stage. I think if you know you have put the work in and you are truly satisfied with your look, then the confidence comes naturally as a result. You can have all the confidence in the world, be it natural or taught, but if you sincerely feel happy with the final product you bring to the stage you will be more than happy to show it off!"

      
Kylie and her nutritionist Giselle          Top 3 Bikini Short at NZIFBB Auckland Champs

And let’s not forget about the bikini. The more bling, sparkle and colours, the more entertaining to watch. Kylie says “I had a blast decorating my bikini, playing around with all the different rhinestones, crystals and connectors and also accessorising with jewellery to match the whole thing.”

“This is one of my favourite aspects of the bikini division. Whether it’s participating or watching from the crowd, it is always exciting to see what the girls come up with for their individual bikini designs.”

We also asked Kylie for any hair tips for contest day " I say keep it simple, pick either straight or curly. Get a nice color and cut so that anything will look good on the day.
For girls with short hair can add a few clip in extensions or just back comb the roots to give body and fullness. Key is to bling it up with some big Sparkly earrings to compliment the hair and really stand out"

When asked where she gets her inspiration from, Kylie says her motivation comes from inspiring other people. “To see others around me change their lives, whether it’s giving up drinking, signing up to the gym for the first time or just over all healthier living, is what really motivates me.”

Though competing in the bikini division is definitely something that shouldn’t be taken too lightly says Kylie.

“Anyone who is thinking about competing in any category or any sport needs to understand that it takes a lot of discipline, dedication and sacrifice. I’d say one of the most important aspects to an athlete’s preparation is their diet. There’s no magic pill or magic workout that short-track’s results. With the right nutrition, dedication and clear focus you are destined to do well in whatever path you take.”


Watch Kylie strut her stuff on stage at the NZIFBB Auckland Champs!

This is not saying that you can’t treat yourself. Kylie says she still has one or two cheat meals a week as a reward for her hard work which also helps curb her cravings for junk food a little bit and keeps her happy during contest prep. “I am a huge fan of ANYTHING with peanut butter and chocolate. I also really enjoy eating tacos, red meat and gourmet burgers with fries! Yum.”

So what’s next for Kylie? She said that she will continue to work hard regardless of what the end goal is and remain positive through the journey. She hopes to continue to motivate other women to change their lives, set goals, dream big and never ever give up on anything they work towards.

“You Will Achieve Anything You Want In Life, The Second You Stop Making Excuses For What’s Holding You Back” – You are the creator of your own destiny, there are no dreams that are too big and it is never too late for ANYONE to set out on a journey for success in any aspect of life.” (Kylie’s favourite quote that helps get her through the longest of days)

by Emma Castle
August 2012