Interview with Jenny Montgomery, NPC Figure Competitor

The Stats:

Name: Jenny Montgomery
Age: 41
Height: 5′ 1″
Married Mother of 2 amazing kids!

Competition History and outcomes:

NPC Big Cat Classic 2013

- 4th Novice

- 5th Figure A

- 4th Masters

NPC Natural PA 2013

- 4th Masters

- 8th Figure A

NPC MidAtlantic Cup 2014

- 3rd Figure A

- 1st Masters

- Won Masters Overall

NPC Northcoast Championships 2014

- 1st Figure A

- 3rd Masters

NPC Elite Physique 2014

- 2nd Figure A

- 2nd Masters

NPC Great Lakes Championships 2014

- 1st Figure A

- 1st Masters

- Won Masters Overall

Social Media sites:

InstaGram: NPCJEN

Facebook: Jenny Montgomery NPC Competitor

[email protected]

BodySpace: Fitjenn73

Google: [email protected]

I had the privilege of meeting Jenny at a posing clinic last year that was run by her coach, Chuck Mauceri. I was just happy to be there and learning. I remember turning to Jenn and seeing how nervous she was learning the poses (I think we all were) but I also remember thinking, “Ummm Is this chick doing the Lakewood show like me? Because if she is, I should just go home right now because she looks awesome!” I was very intimidated by her but I quickly realized she’s very down to earth and an overall cool chick. She was prepping for a show in Pittsburgh and ended up doing quite well from her competition history, as you can see above. She’s been on a roll ever since and is improving at each show, which is the goal, isn’t it? She’s definitely got the gift. Let’s get to know Jenny Montgomery!

FFTF: So, tell us how you got your start with transforming your body. When did you start to take an interest in fitness?

I have always been athletic and participated in sports my whole life. I was getting close to turning 40 and after having 2 children (one out of the house and college age and the other now a pre-teen). I felt like it was finally my time to re-focus on my health. I had recently been diagnosed with Celiac Disease and was making significant changes to clean up my diet. I was working full time and in school after many years in nursing to obtain my Master’s Degree as an Acute Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner. After completing my Master’s Program I found myself 12 pounds over weight. The stress of working, school, no time to eat—-just eating plain old wrong had set in. So I joined a new gym thinking that would kick-start me in a new direction. I was feeling kinda lost until one Sunday I met a lady who was in her 60’s who was competing in Figure. She was one of the driving forces for me to compete. I began intense weight training and dieting – 3 years before ever competing.

FFTF: What was your history like – Athletic? A yo-yo dieter? Casual workout person?

I played sports my whole life such as swimming, volleyball, softball, and hockey. I generally worked out 3-4 x/week but I did not have a trainer and I never really had a consistent diet. I was a full time nurse working long hours, so diet was always my biggest challenge.

Workin them legs!

I do not expect everyone to like the way I look or agree with my goals – however – what I do ask is you respect it.

FFTF: Tell us about your first Figure competition – Highlights/low points?

First competition I was hooked! Getting to see the look on my husband’s face the first time I stepped on stage was definitely a high! Placing in all 3 categories my first time out was also a great high point. No lows at all at the show – however, getting there had been quite a journey. I had been thru 2 other trainers prior to the one I am currently working with (who might I say is just amazing!!!). I was on the wrong diet, wrong plan and 12 weeks out of my first show was dumped by my previous trainer for his own personal reasons. Needless to say, after searching the NPC – came across Chuck Mauceri of Mauceri Private Fitness and, well the rest is history as they say. I know that journey and finding Chuck was single handedly the best thing in a line of amazing things that were going to happen for me. And I believe the best is yet to come!

I have the most amazing husband and children. they have been so supportive of me.

FFTF: Did you find that people were supportive as you dieted for your transformation? Did you encounter any resistance from people that you’d like to share or would you say overall everyone was supportive?

For the most part people were supportive but it was a learning curve. People always commented (and still do) on what I eat. Getting the stare when we go out to eat and everyone else orders food and I am eating what I brought. It really did not and does not bother me….. Yes, I am totally comfortable with eating cold chicken and green beans at 8 AM in a staff meeting – LOL!!! My husband and daughter embraced the diet changes in the house. We all learned together how to re-taste foods for what they really are without added sauces, fats, sugars, etc. The entire family took part in eating clean and really helped with meal prep.

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Jenny’s Fridge at 8 weeks out from a competition. All business!

FFTF: What was your friends/family reaction when you told them you wanted to get on stage and take part in this competition?

Most people are supportive – however, I would be lying if I said I have not been the target of peoples opinion of what they think a healthy person/fit person should look like. I have been publicly ridiculed on social media – told that I am too muscular, not feminine, not what “most guys” look for or like in a woman and how could I think that looking this way is sexy….. I was actually called gross. I have had people walk by me and comment on my muscles and say “that’s too much.” The first time I experience this – I was really hurt but it is always a matter of putting things into perspective. I do not expect everyone to like the way I look or agree with my goals – however – what I do ask is you respect it. Now I look at comments like that and laugh….. Whatever, it is their opinion and it is mind over matter. I don’t mind and they don’t matter!

Jenny with her biggest fan, her daughter.

FFTF: What’s it like to be such a healthy role model for your children

I love the fact that I am a great role model for my kids – my daughter trains with me and is interested in competing in bikini when she’s old enough.

Jen and Chuck and his wife Tammy

FFTF: What advice would you give to women reading this interview about competing and living a fit lifestyle?

I would say you’re never too old to get started! The fact that you’ve had children and your body is different is no excuse either. I compete in master figure and open classes with girls often 15-20 years younger then me and I’m totally cool with that. I’m still holding my own with them! Physical fitness and health is possible at any age. I am the healthiest I’ve ever been in my 40s.

The best place to start is find a trainer who understands the female body – especially as you age and after having children. Let the expert assist you with diet and training. Moreover you have to be comfortable with the process as nothing great has ever been achieved overnight.

Competing was one of the first things that I had done for myself in a long time after raising a family but it’s very possible to balance your personal life with training and competing. I do it every day. It’s not always easy or fun but I’m committed to myself, the process and my goals.

FFTF: What’s it like working with your Coach Chuck Mauceri? Does he give you diet advice or workouts or both?

I really do not know if I can put into words the gratitude and thanks I have for him. Meeting him was likely one of the very best things that could have ever happened to me. From the first day I met him I was impressed and have been ever since. There is something to be said in finding a trainer that you know always has your best interest at heart and that is Chuck. He is truly an expert in the field, a mentor and a friend. Over the past year in working with him – I have changed my physique in ways I never thought was possible. He has taught me to believe in myself and trust the process. He pushes me hard and is one of my biggest cheerleaders. I know that he will help me to achieve my pro status. I have become very close with him and his amazing wife Tammy and their beautiful daughters. Chuck treats his MPF clients like family – putting together summer BBQ’s and celebratory gatherings. We all have become so close and often travel to each others shows – even when we are not competing but just to show support. This past month I had the opportunity to compete in the same shows with Chuck and it was another awesome experience – so fun to share the process together as a team. I am honored to be a member of the MPF Family.

There is something to be said in finding a trainer that you know always has your best interest at heart and that is Chuck.

FFTF: Any other interests outside the gym?

Very outdoors kinda girl and I love to cook and travel. I also love to read.

FFTF: Speaking of food, what was your first meal after you got off stage?

Gluten Free Pizza!!!! and Potato Chips!!!

Chuck treats his MPF clients like family – putting together summer BBQ’s and celebratory gatherings. We all have become so close and often travel to each others shows – even when we are not competing but just to show support.

FFTF: Would you recommend competing to anyone or do you think it takes a certain type of individual to engage in this “strict” diet and workout regimen?

I would not recommend “anyone” to do this and I do believe that it takes a special person to stay as motivated, driven and focused in order to do well. The training is intense, the diet is even harder. This is just as much mental as it is physical. I was once told that it is one of the most selfish sports a person can do, and to a great extent that statement is true. Your world revolves around meal prep, eating and training. It is more than just a persons drive to do this but you have to have a strong support system. If the people around you are not supportive – chances are failure is more likely.

I have the most amazing husband and children. they have been so supportive of me. They tolerate my contest prep. My low carb days and my “hangry” attitude. I know that they are so proud of me. Just ask my husband. He would tell you that he never thought in a million years I could get up on that stage – as insecure as I used to be! Now he is the one cheering the loudest and I look for him first as soon as I hit that stage. I love this man and after 19+ years together this sport has brought our relationship to another awesome level. He even trains with me – it is just awesome!!!

FFTF: What’s on your Goal list now?

My goal is to finish out the season with the 2014 NPC PA Natural and 2014 NPC Central States. Since I have qualified for nationals – my plan is to compete in my first National Show next July 2015 at Masters National. My ultimate goal would be to obtain my Pro Card! :)

Definitely keep us updated on that cook book Jenny. And we are anxious to see you finish this season and see you ultimately get that pro card!!! Good luck and keep up your amazing work! Congratulations once again on going From Fit To Figure!