Lori Harder, cover model, competitor and trainer, has enjoyed so many wins which include Ms. Bikini Universe 2010 Champion, Ms. Figure America 2010 Champion, and Ms. Bikini America Champion, that we just had to get some of her tips to help our readers excel too.  Gorgeous, intelligent and driven, she certainly had some really valuable ideas to share. 

Gabrielle Reilly:  What motivates you to stay in such great shape?

Lori Harder:  My drive to stay in shape comes from knowing that my happiness depends on it.  When I was younger, I didn't lead a healthy lifestyle, and I always felt like I was lacking energy, motivation, and drive to do anything in life.  Knowing what is on the other side keeps me on the move now!


Gabrielle Reilly:  What weight/cardio training do you do in a week?

Lori Harder:  I do three full body strength training/Plyo days.  I also do one to two days of Yoga or Yoga Sculpt, and I walk the lakes around my home with my dog and husband for cardio every day.


Gabrielle Reilly:  How do you fit your overall training/dieting into your lifestyle?

Lori Harder:  I put it first, and make a plan for it every single day.  I really try to get it all done in the morning as a priority so nothing else can push it off. 

Gabrielle Reilly:  Do you have days when you don't want to exercise?

Lori Harder:  Every day!!  Action spurs motivation though, so I know that I have to get my rump moving first thing each morning in order to find it.

Gabrielle Reilly:  What time do you normally work out?

Lori Harder:  First thing in the morning, starting with our cardio walk.


Gabrielle Reilly:  How much sleep do you get?

Lori Harder:  I get 8-9 hours per night.  Sleep is one of the most important things you can do for yourself.  It keeps your appetite at bay, and helps you repair your body and burn fat.  Not to mention, it keeps me from being crabby to everyone in my life each day too!  LOL

Gabrielle Reilly:  How do you prevent yourself from becoming bored with working out?

Lori Harder:  I make sure to always change it up, and keep it really challenging.  I actually base my Online Training Program for others off of what my own plan is each month, so this motivates me to keep it changing.  Oh, and fresh new music and cute new workout clothes on a regular basis sure helps too!  You can check out my online training here http://loriharderfitness.com/training/online-personal-training/ for some other great ideas!

Gabrielle Reilly:  What attributed to you achieving such great physical success?

Lori Harder:  I was an overweight child growing up.  My whole family was overweight because we showed our love for each other socially around meals.  I knew I didn't feel good about myself on this path, so I decided to change it as an early teen.  Now I do it to help motivate others to change their family tree as well.

I also attribute my physical to success to surrounding myself with right people in life.  I have made some tough choices and learned that sometimes you have to avoid the people that bring you down or create a negative environment.  I was blessed to find my coach Cathy Savage in my mid twenties.  Having their expertise and guidance on show prep changed my life!  This also opened the door to meet so many other like minded amazing women.  You need to create an environment for success.  That may mean you need to branch out and make new friends that support your healthy goals and lifestyle!

Gabrielle Reilly:  How many calories do you consume a day off-contest and pre-contest?

Lori Harder:  I don't ever count calories.  I know that seems crazy, but I have an idea where my protein is, and I keep my diet very balanced with carbs, proteins, fruits or veggies at every meal.  I've actually turned to Isagenix meal replacements to help me achieve this balance, and it is so much easier for me now!  I eat 5-6 times per day, of which 2-3 of those are Isagenix shakes or bars. 

I use almost their entire line of products and vitamins.  When you lead a very busy and active, healthy lifestyle it is a blessing when you can find something that is all natural that you can use on the go and know you are getting the nutrients your body needs to keep up.  Isagenix and high intensity compound training has saved me, especially now that I am traveling and speaking so much.  As far as pre contest, I stay pretty close to show shape at all times.  This becomes easier as you start to live this as a true lifestyle.  For me, food is related to how I feel mentally, physically, attitude wise and my happiness.  I know have to feel great to be successful in motivating others and myself to take action!  I usually take about 2-3 weeks before a show or a shoot and just clean up the little extra treats or any cocktails.  My training before show does not change much, but I will add in a bit more cardio and functional training the last two weeks to really tighten up.  www.loriharder.isagenix.com 

Gabrielle Reilly:  Do you have allocated binge days/meals?

Lori Harder:  I really don't have binge days anymore.  I just eat what I want, when I want, but in moderation.  So, if I want a Mocha and a little chocolate on a Wednesday, I eat it.  This keeps me from binging by no longer feeling deprived for defined periods of time.   This has resulted in a surprisingly balanced way to eat.


 

Gabrielle Reilly:  What do you do when you feel like breaking your diet?

Lori Harder:  I have whatever I'm craving in portion control, and keep the rest of my meals extremely healthy that day.  I also try to alter the meals that I'm craving in a healthy way, and dedicated a website, www.busygirlhealthylife.com to these recipes.

Gabrielle Reilly:  What are your top three healthy snacks?

Lori Harder:  My top three healthy snacks are Isagenix Shakes or bars, protein pancakes from my website, or Greek Yogurt with berries and nuts.


 

Gabrielle Reilly:  When you were about 5 or 6 what did you dream you would do when you grew up?

Lori Harder:  I wanted to be either a singer, gymnast or performer of some sort. so I guess I've been living that out through my fitness routines now!


 

Gabrielle Reilly:  For parents out there concerned about their children's health and obesity what words of advice would you offer them on fitness, motivation and diet for children?

Lori Harder:  Lead by example, and be a healthy active parent, always incorporating healthy food into their diet instead of keeping a bunch of junk around the house.  The junk food should be something you leave the home for as an occasional treat.  Try not to put so much emphasis on it being healthy, instead make it fun, rewarding the family with fun activity instead of food. 

Gabrielle Reilly:  What are your measurements?

Lori Harder: 
Height: 5'8
Weight: 138
Measurements:  (Bust, waist, hips.) 36-26-34
Dress size: 4

Gabrielle Reilly:  What is your body shape?   

Lori Harder: Straight, not very curvy, athletic.

Gabrielle Reilly:  Do you have any brands of cloths you prefer that fit your body shape well?  

Lori Harder:  I love BCBG, lululemon and bebe.

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