• Name: Sofia Rodriguez
• Date of Birth: 08/04/1979
• Location: Leawood, KS
• Height: 5’8”
• Off Season Weight: 134 lb.
• Competition Weight: 125 lb.
• Years Training: 3
• Years Competing: 2
• Favorite Body Part: Abs and Delts
• Favorite Exercise: Anything involving core
• Website: http://bodyspace.bodybuilding.com/sorodfigure/

Have you always been in shape? Yes for the most part. There have been times where I’ve been in better shape than others but I’ve always been active or involved in some type of sport. I was in classical ballet, dance, and skiing from early childhood on. I played volleyball in high school and began running and lifting in college. I’m naturally lean so building muscle is a struggle.

How did you get started in physique competitions? For my 30^th birthday I set a goal to turn 30 in the best shape of my life. I wanted to prove to women that age is a number and you can be in better shape at 30 than 20. After my birthday, I figured I was already almost there; I might as well enter a show. I placed 2^nd and was hooked.

Describe your training philosophy: Go heavy or go home. Ladies, don’t be afraid of lifting heavy weights! You won’t get too big, promise.

What are your favorite exercises? Core and plyometrics.

What is your diet like in the off season? I focus on increasing my caloric intake with super clean foods to build muscle mass. I naturally don’t have a lot of muscle so the off season is when I grow, grow, and grow! I allow myself a couple cheat meals a week and don’t weigh myself or count nutrients.

Describe your diet during contest prep: My contest diet is pretty much the same as off season. It consists of super clean eating with one carb load day per week. I can tolerate more carbohydrates than many other competitors so I eat a lot of sweet potatoes, oats, squash, fruit, and brown rice. I don’t eliminate any food group I just keep everything clean. I never use artificial sweeteners or additives on or off season and avoid refined sugar/foods.

What supplements have worked for you? Women’s multi-vitamin, BCAAs, Fish Oil, Creatine Monohydrate, Flax Oil, and whey protein.

What advice would you give to aspiring athletes? Believe in yourself and tune out negativity. Surround yourself with positive energy and don’t be complacent.

What have you learned about yourself as a physique competitor? I’m an all or nothing type personality. I practice what I preach and am not afraid to walk the line.

What are your plans for the future? World domination, just kidding. For 2011, I plan on continuing to build my personal training business. I’m in the process of developing my website which will offer clients online fitness support. I will also compete in a number of shows beginning in June 2011.