Celeste interviewed Kyla Dickerson, an IFBB fit model pro, coach, and posing specialist who has competed in 28 marathons and is redefining strength and confidence for women over 40 in bodybuilding. Kyla shared how her late mother instilled visualization techniques in her at a young age, including a specific example of learning to do a back dive, which became a foundation for her approach to achieving goals. The conversation touched on Kyla's pre-competition rituals and her mother's belief in visualization and manifestation, which Kyla described as key to her success across various endeavors including marathons and pageants.
Personal Philosophy and Career Support
Kyla shared her personal philosophy of staying true to herself regardless of her surroundings, inspired by her mother's advice to "live like it's your last day." She discussed how her husband supports her career as an athlete and IPV fitness model, with him encouraging her to focus on helping women over 40 feel better in their bodies and minds. Kyla expressed gratitude for her husband's support and mentioned her regret about not taking a photo with him after receiving her pro card at her first competition.
Kyla's First Pro Show Victory
Kyla shared her experience winning her first pro show, describing the challenging journey to Pittsburgh Nationals where she faced multiple obstacles including weather delays, flight changes, and her husband getting sick. Despite these difficulties, Kyla and a fellow competitor who was also traveling to the show managed to find accommodations and workout facilities. When Kyla won the pro card, she was genuinely surprised as she had been discouraged by her previous bikini competition experiences and had initially planned not to compete at all that year.
Fit Model Competition Experience
Kyla shared her experience competing in her first professional fit model show, where she placed 5th in the Masters division. She discussed the unique aspects of fit model competitions, including the unpredictability of placements and the opportunity to connect with other competitors. Kyla expressed her preference for competing in the Masters category and shared feedback about her performance, including suggestions for improvement. She also mentioned plans to discuss concerns about the treatment of the Masters division compared to Open division on a podcast.
Masters vs Open Division Disparities
Kyla expressed concerns about discrepancies in prize money and placement recognition between Masters and Open divisions at a competition. She noted that Masters competitors were not charged to compete but questioned why they received different treatment in terms of prize money and placement recognition compared to Open competitors. Kyla emphasized the need for equal treatment between divisions, particularly highlighting the challenges faced by older competitors in the Masters division.
Physique Competition Division Strategies
Kyla and Celeste discussed the challenges and strategies in competitive physique shows, particularly focusing on the differences between the Masters and Open divisions. They explored how placement in one division might affect competitors' performance in the other, with Celeste suggesting that going first in the Open division could be advantageous. Kyla emphasized the importance of not letting placement define an athlete's future in the sport and highlighted the success of pro show winners who embody the fit model look. The conversation also touched on the inspiring presence of older competitors and Kyla's mission to empower women over 40 through her achievements and story of discipline in the sport.
Coaching for Women Over 40
Kyla discussed her coaching approach for women over 40, emphasizing that sustainable transformation is possible without extreme measures. She shared personal experiences with body dysmorphia and how running helped her cope with challenges in her first marriage and her mother's illness. Kyla explained that her motivation in bodybuilding comes from wanting her mother to have experienced the joy of fitness, as her mother was unable to participate due to health issues.
Mother's Inspiration in Fitness Career
Kyla shared how her late mother Darla inspired her fitness career, particularly after her mother's passing when Kyla became a group fitness instructor. She described how her mother's resilience during her final illness, including continuing to find joy despite severe pain and broken bones, motivated Kyla to push through her own challenges during marathon training. Kyla emphasized the importance of cherishing time with loved ones and not taking moments together for granted.
Loss and Memory Preservation Discussion
Celeste and Kyla discussed their experiences with loss and how they carry their loved ones' memories forward. Kyla shared how she connects with her mother and brother through meaningful symbols and experiences, including the significance of the number 444. They also discussed Kyla's role as a group fitness manager at a Lifetime gym in La Jolla, where she has developed strong connections with her long-standing class participants. The conversation ended with Celeste preparing to ask Kyla about challenges faced by women over 40, though this portion of the discussion was not included in the transcript segment provided.
Women's Fitness Coaching Challenges
Kyla discussed the challenges of coaching women on fitness journeys, particularly around redefining goals beyond just weight loss and addressing misconceptions about nutrition, especially for women over 40 who may have experienced the low-carb era. She emphasized the importance of accountability and long-term commitment in fitness coaching, noting that many clients need guidance to focus on sustainable practices rather than quick fixes. Kyla highlighted that while supplements and modern tools exist, they cannot replace the fundamentals of proper eating and training, and she stays focused on helping clients build consistent habits and maintain patience through the challenging process.
Miss Utah's Fear Factor Experience
Celeste interviewed Kyla, who shared her experience as Miss Utah 2004 and participating in a Miss U.S.A. edition of Fear Factor. Kyla described her challenging experience on the show, including a difficult ocean platform challenge that led to her being the first contestant eliminated. She provided advice for aspiring competitors, emphasizing the importance of getting a coach immediately and not underestimating the preparation time required. Kyla also shared insights for pro competitors, stressing the need for confidence and strong posing on stage. The conversation concluded with Kyla sharing her contact information for those interested in working with her as a coach or trainer.
CONNECT WITH CELESTE:
Website:http://www.celestial.fit
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/celestial_fit/
All Links:http://www.celestial.fit/links.html
CONNECT WITH KYLA:
https://www.instagram.com/kylafaye_ifbbpro/
