Latorya Watts: Meet the Future
As the 2013 contest sea
son winds to a close we can look back on a year that was jam packed with plenty of excitement, and brought us plenty of surprises as well. In case you missed it, one of the biggest surprises, and brightest young superstars to emerge from the Figure division was none other than Species Nutrition athlete Latorya Watts. After winning her Pro Card at the USA Championships Latorya didn’t waste any time before stepping onstage again when she made her impressive pro debut at the IFBB Tampa Pro. Now, with a few pro shows added to her already impressive résumé, Latorya is heading into her offseason looking to make improvements to an already impressive physique that has been called by some “the future of the Figure division”. Latorya and I recently had a chance to catch up and discuss her crazy ride to IFBB stardom, and you can read it all here, in this RxMuscle exclusive interview.
Q.) Before we talk about your future plans, I'd like to take a step back and talk about your experience at the USA Championships where you competed in a very tough Figure Class D. Tell us what was going through your head as you heard your name called as the winner and realized that you'd earned your IFBB Pro Card.
A.) To be honest, when I heard my name and number called I was in complete disbelief. This was my very first national show, never could I imagine. As I was told to take center stage to receive my trophy, I hesitated. A rush of emotions came over me and a sense of accomplishment for all the hard work, discipline and dedication I invested were validated right there at that very moment. A moment I will never forget.
Q.) After your win in Las Vegas you didn't waste much time before stepping foot on a pro stage when you made your debut at the Tampa Pro just a few weeks later. Was it always part of the plan to hit the pro stage as soon as possible assuming you won your pro card?
A.) Initially it was not in my immediate plans to return so soon if I became pro, there really wasn't a plan. I just came off an amazing win and I wanted to enjoy it, and I was looking forward to the time off. A part of me was satisfied with my new title but at Nationals I was approached by highly respected judges who felt it was in my best interest to make my pro debut sooner than later. After some thought, obviously I agreed and felt I should get my name and face out there and see what the pro stage would be like.
Q.) Since the Tampa Pro 
we've seen you compete in the Tahoe Pro and more recently at the IFBB Tournament of Champions, putting that brand new pro card to good use. Has it been difficult to peak four times over the span of just a few weeks?
A.) I admit it was a challenge, and every show after Tampa was increasingly difficult. With all of the traveling and continuing with the diet and everything else that takes place during contest prep, my body was screaming for some downtime.
Q.) Although you've been very successful thus far in your pro career, as competitors we are always striving to improve. At this point, what do you feel is your biggest weakness?
A.) My biggest weakness would have to be staying disciplined during the off season. Over time it has gotten easier and I’m learning how to balance. As a competitor you have to understand this sport becomes your everyday lifestyle, and it’s not something you can turn on and off.
Q.) Since bursting onto the scene as an amateur, your physique has earned very high praise, and it has even been touted as the future of the Figure Division. When you hear things like that, do you feel added pressure given the high expectations?
A.) Yes, I definitely do, more so than ever before. I want nothing more than to do extremely well and excel highly in this sport so that I can fulfill these high expectations. I have accepted I’m not just a competitor, but I am a role model. Everyday someone is approaching me or messaging me and expressing how I have inspired them and motivated them to compete or even just step foot in a gym. That inspires me and keeps me motivated.
Q.) One of the other unique aspects about you as a competitor is your stage presence. Onstage you always seem to display your physique with poise and confidence well beyond your years. Do you believe your presentation is one of your strengths? Is this something you've always focused extra attention on?
A.) No, not at all. My presentation isn't one of my strengths. It wasn't until prepping for Nationals I began to dedicate more time and attention to my stage presence. In my mind I believed the discipline I put into my diet and training was all I needed, and that it would carry me. I was wrong. I knew after pictures, videos and judges feedback from past contests, if I didn't work on bringing a complete package I wouldn't excel in this sport.
Q.) Recently you signed an exclusive contract with Species Nutrition. What does it mean to have the support of a company like Species that's known for supporting some of the elite female athletes in the industry?
A.) It means everything and I couldn't be more honored to be a part of such an awesome brand. Team Species has been nothing but supportive and I believe they see the passion and true potential in me.
Q.) In five years Latorya Watts will be...
A.) In five years Latorya Watts will be a health and fitness coach continuing to inspire and motivate others to reach their own personal goals. I will also hold an Olympia title.
Our ambitions illuminate our path to success. We use our own personal vision of where we want to be to guide us on our journey through life. However, no matter how ambitious we might be, it is the relentless drive to succeed that separates those that dream their dreams and those that live them. Thus far, Latorya’s ambition and drive have allowed her to exceed even her own expectations and turn her dreams into reality. However, only time will tell if she remains in 5th gear and captures an Olympia crown, cementing her legacy as one of the greatest competitors to ever grace the stage.
Subscribe to RxMuscle on Youtube
