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Spotlight On NPC Bikini Competitor: Michele “Italian Ice” Messina
Category you compete in: NPC Bikini Class D
Date of birth: February 1
7, 1986
Hometown: Seattle, WA
Career: Personal Trainer, Behavioral Therapist
If you could change into a superhero for a day who would you be and why?
I would love to be the Flash, to be able to run, think, and act faster than the speed of light! Being able to see the whole world and travel to every corner of the earth would be amazing. But beyond that, the Flash can read/acquire knowledge at a hyper-accelerated rate, being able to absorb that type of enlightenment would be ......valuable
What made you begin dedicating your lifestyle to this sport?
In my early 20's, I had to have surgery causing physical limitations to my chest and shoulder range of motion. In stepping into a local gym, set on fixing this setback to my already active lifestyle, I found myself surrounded by some extremely sound athletes. From cross fit, to bodybuilding, to sports specific training, this particular gym had it all. The best part - many were woman. With a new end goal in mind I set out to challenge myself farther than I had ever anticipated. It was along the journey from rehabilitation to performance athlete where my passion for bodybuilding was forged.
What approach do you take to dieting...carb cycle.keto?
I grew up eating very healthy, what most would consider "clean eating" but was the norm for me. That translated into my adult life, eating healthy wholesome foods. I later discovered that I had a gluten intolerance which made generalized eating very hard to do. I had/have to be very aware of what I consume. The easiest term I could describe my dieting choice would be Paleo, but a loosely translated variation....and of course, like most body builders, I love my proteins!
What do you think is the biggest misconception people have about competing?
I think people who are not in this industry have a misconception that bodybuilders and fitness athletes are overly obsessive and too aesthetically centered. Choosing to be a competitor is choosing to have a very specific lifestyle focused on healthy decisions that may seem rather extreme to most, but are truly a dedication to having a health mind and body.
What is your most embarr
assing childhood memory?
Oh, jeez, well I have six brothers and being the only sister, you can imagine that they were pretty protective growing up. I remember my first date when I was 13, just an innocent ice-cream and walking down the boardwalk sort of outing...However, one of my older brothers decided that it was necessary for him to accompany us. Talk about mortifying! Every time the boy so much as came within 3 feet of me, my brother would come up and whack the poor guy in the back of the head! Let’s just say I didn't try my hand at dating for quite a while after that!
What is the biggest lesson you have learned about YOURSELF during your contest prep?
Well, to be honest, I've learned that although I am a very strong driven woman, it's okay to accept help and support from others. This sport can be very physically and mentally draining, so surrounding yourself with a positive network of people is incredibly important.
Who do you look up and admire and why?
My brother, he is an officer in the Coast Guard. He has served in Iraq and Afghanistan and is in one of the hardest flight programs in the country. His devotion, service and perseverance are something I respect and admire daily.
Competition history:
1st Place: 2012 NPC Washington Ironman Bikini Class C
1st Place & Overall 2013 NPC Ironman Magazine Natural Championships
4th Place 2013 NPC Jr. USA’s
Next competition: 2013 NPC Team Universe
Favorite Motivational Quote:
Good is the enemy of great, never stop working for your personal greatness.
Who would you like to thank?
My family is always first! I always feel loved and supported by them. My friends, fellow trainers, teammates and coaches are amazing; I have the best network of positive people cheering me on!
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