Desiree Ellis Part 2

In Part One we learned about Desiree's beginnings as well as her initial foray into the world of competitive bodybuilding. This self-motivated athlete inspires all who happen to fall victim to her charm, personality and dedication to her sport. Let's read more about Canada's Pro Bodybuilder ...

We all have our favorite parts to train in the gym, and Desiree enjoys back and shoulders. My least favorite is calves cause I just find them a bit boring. Another activity Desiree no longer has an interest in is pro wrestling, or wrestling in general for that matter. In 1999 when we shot the grueling, The Rumble on 6th Street, Desiree was getting into the co-ed wrestling scene. I have wrestled a few men, but never lifts. However I prefer not to do it anymore; it's just not for me.

Wrestling Fawnia in 1999 was Desiree's first match. And what did she think? "It was a lot more physically grueling than I expected, but a fun experience." * Contact me fawnia@fawnia.com for a copy of this video!

Today Desiree's hobbies are kickboxing and other forms of martial arts, when she has the time. For something new, she has started skiing. I have recently taken up downhill skiing which I'm still learning but surprised at how much I'm enjoying it.

Besides doing the expected interviews for local TV stations, Desiree is one of the hottest new models to boldly appear in Muscle Elegance. I've just had a layout in the October issue #19 of Muscle Elegance Magazine, 13 pages including the centerfold. I'm also in the calendar of the current January issue #20, and will have another layout coming out in their summer issue. Doing the Muscle Elegance shoot has been the best experience of my career so far. I had so much fun doing it. They are truly awesome.

I am not sure you if you have ever stumbled across a copy of Muscle Elegance, but if you did, you would know. It's an adult-related magazine like no other - a real eye opener that sheds new light on women bodybuilders. Adding to Desiree's list of impressive credits are appearances in Women's Physique World, Musclemag International, Flex, and Fighting Females.

For 2003, Desiree is competing in the Pinnacle Night of Women's Bodybuilding in New York, on May 30. We'll be sending good vibes your way! Further in the future, say about 5 - 10 years, Desiree hopes to be financially secure and content in life as she enjoys a successful website which she is always updating.

I always ask this question about what advice should be given to a 21-year-old girl who wants to compete and is very serious about making bodybuilding her career.
Desiree answers: Make sure you not only work on building size on your physique, but on shaping it as well right from the start. Bodybuilding is about shape and proportion, not just size. Train hard, train smart, and follow proper nutrition. You have to stay dedicated, consistent and disciplined with both your training and nutrition. Keep yourself surrounded with positive people and people that will support you.

Yes, people that will support you when all you want is your oatmeal in the morning right Desiree? Oatmeal is her favorite diet/clean food, but when she's not getting ready for a show, her treats include sushi, seafood pasta, pizza, cheesecake, and any creamy dessert. All the yummy stuff gets cut out about 12 weeks before each show, and Desiree will enjoy a small cheat once a week up until five weeks out.

Being absolutely strict is Desiree's rule, and it shows! You may wonder what her bodyfat may be, but she doesn't take that into account during show time. I don't bother to take my bodyfat, I just go by the mirror and self examination, but I would say between 4 -6%. At about 5% BF (bodyfat), minutes before stepping onto stage, Desiree eats chocolate, a bit of concentrated orange juice, and / or wine; all to help her appear more vascular.

Most bodybuilders eat everything in site after their show, which is exactly the path Desiree used to follow, but now? Well, I used to pig out after a contest in the earlier years and blow up. I don't do that anymore. I prefer to keep fairly lean at all times, so one month after my show I'm still leaner that before I started dieting.

Pleased with the cards she has been dealt, Desiree is proudly moving forward in life. I think that everything we do in life comes at its right time when we're ready or happens for a reason. I still have a lot I want to do in life and look forward to what the future holds.

We are all looking forward to what your future holds Desiree. Thank you very much for being a great inspiration those few years I spent in Vancouver. What am I saying, you are still a perfect example of bodybuilding and I will always view you as a role model! Desiree, I am personally looking forward to cheering for you at the Olympia one day (soon)!