As youth gives way to adolescence, careless abandonment often yields to insecurities as ones self image falters in the vapor light of peer pressure. So it was for Mona who suddenly found herself immersed in a world of self doubt, and doubt is an anchor. It binds the potential of countless millions and holds them like still life images of what they might have done if only,,,,,,,,,.

Sports were a thing of the past, feeling as if she weren't good enough, she no longer tried. Doubt led to neglect and neglect led to lethargy, and our model who once carried the title of athlete now wore the moniker of "Thunder Thighs".

Fueled by the empty calories of alcohol and fast food, her early twenties found Mona packing 143 lbs on her barely 5'2" frame. Self esteem faded like a forgotten dream in the mornings as she tried to force herself into jeans that would no longer accept her body.

The worst excuse is the one that you can live with, the one that you believe, but Mona's belief was beginning to falter. She was tired of how she felt, she was tired of being overweight, and she was tired of excuses. She knew that she could change and that the only thing that she needed to do was START.

And start she did! It was a six month training program in preparation for the Honolulu Marathon that kindled Mona's physical fire. Perhaps what fueled the flames even higher were the bets against her.

It was grueling. The hours passed and with each step the pavement echoed her blows with greater intensity. Legs swelling in rejection of the abuse, she fought to keep her mind clear and on the goal, and the goal was simply to finish. No matter how much it hurt, no matter how stiff she became, no matter how violently her chest heaved, she only had to finish.

How long does it take to change a life?

7 hours, 19 minuets and 22 seconds. As she crossed the finish line, the furry of her breath and the pounding of her heart gave birth to a new world of possibilities.

"If I can do this, what else can I do?"

Seven months later she became

a figure competitor.

"Seeing the transformation the took place as I dieted, trained and lifted weights created a healthy addiction, where competing became my newfound love and passion. I quickly abandoned my old habits of late night drinking and partying."

Mona Liza Reyes continues to train, compete and inspire others to accept the possibilities that lies within them. As a volunteer coach with "Girls on the Run" Mona teaches young girls the art of fitness as she prepares them to compete a 5K race during a 12 week program. She also discusses topics to instill self value, positive body image and self acceptance. Far from cosmetic, these characteristics have real and lasting value that these girls will carry with them for the rest of their lives.

Because of her commitment to a healthy lifestyle, for leading by example, and for helping others to find their own inner strengths, Lift for Life.com is honored to feature Mona Liza Reyes as Model of the Month.

Lift for Life.com Model of the Month

Mona Liza Reyes

To learn more about Mona Liza Reyes, visit her personal website at

www.goteammo.com

Natural Bodybuilding at its Finest - Lift for Life.com

Photo Credits:

Jason Foy of F8 Photography

Bill Dobbins Photography

JRG Photography

Weiferd Watts Photography

Body Sport