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Spotlight On: Mariam Dillard
Category you compete in: bikini
Date of birth: July 17, 1989
Hometown: Tulsa, Oklahoma
Career: Business coordinator at galleria of smiles dental office :)
and graduate student working on my MBA!
If you could change into a superhero for a day who would you be and why?
Superwoman! She's the definition of a strong, sexy woman! She has the strength of superman and beauty of a woman...and being able to fly is a plus ;)
What made you begin dedicating your lifestyle to this sport?
I started out doing pageants and loved preparing for the swimsuit round. Last year, I decided to try out an NPC bikini competition and did well. I was graduating with my undergraduate degree in just 3 years, starting my MBA, planning a wedding, and turning 21! Competing just had to be added to the mix last year! After my first show, I was hooked! I ended up with 2 overall titles in bikini and instantly caught the bug :) I loved having a regimen, plan, and goal to reach! It's the hardest , most rewarding thing a person can do!
What approach do you take to dieting...carb cycle..keto?
I eat a balanced diet overall. I eat 6 meals a day. I have protein, carbs, and fats. Closer to a show, I carb cycle. My body is very sensitive to carbs therefore I shock my body with cycling carbs. It's always good to keep portion control in mind.
What do you think is the biggest misconception people have about competing?
People think it is easy and that it is not a sport. This is the hardest sport because it is a 24/7 job. You not only have to train physically, but mentally you have to be strong not to give into temptations or skip workout sessions, and watch everything you put in your mouth. It effects your entire lifestyle. It's not easy. It is the hardest sport a person can do. Only FEW can do it. Whenever people say it's not a sport I always reply, "I would like to see you try" ;)
It is a wonderful feeling dedicating all you have; mind and body! It's reviving!
What is your most embarassing childhood memory?
I took karate with my brother when I was about 7 and was the only girl in the class. I had to use the restroom SO bad but was too embarrassed to ask to be dismissed! Well, you can probably guess what happened...facing the mirror, everyone saw what was dripping down my leg. I ended up with a huge puddle beneath my feet. My face felt like it was on fire!!
What is the biggest lesson you have learned about YOURSELF during your contest prep?
I learned that I am stronger than I think I am. The mind is so powerful. At the beginning, I had doubts and excuses. I had "what if's", "why", and "how" questions going through my mind. I learned that if I cast down negative thoughts I can achieve anything! Things I would never imagine doing I have done!The body can be physically stretched beyond belief. It is matter of believing in yourself and DOING it!
Who do you look up and admire and why?
I look up to Angelike Psoinos-Norrie because she has a great physique and is not afraid to stand up for what she believes in. She realizes the importance of being truly healthy and how to keep in control with a balanced lifestyle. She has expressed how important it is to keep your priorities straight while still achieving your fitness goals. She is beautiful inside and out!
Competition history:
2011 Arnold Amateur-8th bikini D
2010 NPC Nationals-4th bikini E
2010 Oklahoma State-1st & overall
2010 Battle of the Bodies-1st & overall
2010 Midwest Novice-2nd bikini
Next competition:
2011 Team Universe in New Jersey!!!
Favorite Motivational Quote:
"Just shut up and do it"- me
"Get to it, there is someone out there training harder than you"
"That which doesn't kill you, will only make you stronger"
"Don't become tired of doing good, you will reap rewards if you don't give up." Galations
6:9
Who would you like to thank?
First of all, I would not be here without God. He is the source of everything I do. Also, my husband. He is very supportive and has always embraced my contest prep. I would also like to thank my family for helping me and adjusting family events into being "healthy!" A HUGE thank you to my trainer Sheilahe Brown (she's always kickin' n setting me straight!), Leah Wilson, Laurie St. Michael (makes me beautiful), D'onna Smith, and Team Swag :)... There is ALWAYS a support group behind every competitor.
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