Monday, November 8, 2010
Thursday, November 4, 2010
UPDATES - The Life Story
Wow, it's been so long since I wrote the last blog. Sorry about that. I've had some comments from people who read my blog - thank you guys! The comments were like "hey, what happened to your blogs? It's been pretty fun to read your stories." Let me tell you what happened to me last couple of weeks.
If you are one of my facebook friends, you remember my complaints about accounting class. I've never met people who like accounting, and neither do I. Apparently, I had to take my first and LAST accounting class for my MBA course to graduate. I did really bad on the first test because I didn't study enough. So, I had to study REALLY hard for the second test. In the mean time, I've been gaining weight. I was 118 lbs at my first show, which was July 20th. I gained 2 lbs at my second show, on August 10th. Since I finished two shows, I've been on a bulk phase, but it was not ok to gain pounds every day. I ended up being 127 lbs. Oh no! What could I say, I needed to lose weight. Anyway, my accounting test was my priority at that time, so I studied every day. Guess what? I got a 97 on the second test. Hallelujah!
I felt very rewarded. While I was studying for my classes, I had another big project coming up, getting my Personal Trainer Certification. I had planned on getting it this summer, but I had two competitions that I didn't plan on, so the PTC was pushed back until early Nov. Finally, it's getting close to Nov. and I had to study for sure. So, as soon as I finished my mid-terms, I studied everyday again for the certification. As you may know, I have two jobs, one at the Rec center and one at the Chamber of Commerce so it's been really challenging to work out as well. Anyway, I successfully got back to where I should be, 120 lbs after two weeks. Do you wonder what I did, even though I said I didn't have time to work out? How did Minsoo lost 7 lbs within two weeks?! I can tell you what I did in the next blog so make sure you come back to read it ;)
Another challenge came up, I got sick. You know being sick is the worst thing that could happen for those who have a competition in a few weeks. I had no energy and my body was tired. It was not good. Luckily I got over it pretty quickly. I slept more than usual and tried to rest more. I just had a video shoot for bikini posing and my trainer told me I looked good :) Yay! I'm still working on it, but definitely I've been gaining more muscles on the weak parts of my body.
Nov. 2nd. I made another accomplishment of my life! I passed the certification exam!!! Hallelujah :) It may not be a big deal for some people, but it was huge for me. First of all, it was a national certification exam and it's in English. Plus understanding and memorizing anatomy and physiology stuff was not easy even though I've been fitness instructor for a while, especially since I'm not an exercise science major. Even some of my friends didn't pass the test on the first time so it was very big deal for me.
Nov. 4th, which is today. Yes, it's another big day for me. It's my 26th B-day!!! I didn't want to tell you the NUMBER, but I think it's important to tell you so I can explain my story.
It's been my 6th B-day in the states. I miss celebrating my B-Day with my family. Yea. This sucks. However, at the same time, what I realized is how important they are and what being old means. When I was 20 or 21, it was my day, my celebration. I was happy to get presents. I know. I was young. Yesterday, I took some time to think about my life. I tried to think about people who I've met in my life and who made an impact on my life. I can't say thank you enough to my parents who have raised me for 20 years and are still supporting me. Thank God, who let me know what being loved means. Everything that I have is appreciated. I am so blessed. That's all I can say. I was kind of sad for going to school on my B-day and not being able to celebrate it with champagne, but guess what? Today is not my day. Today is my day to show appreciation for those who become a part of my life; for those who taught me so much; for those who love me and whom I love.
So what's next for Minsoo? My goals are; getting a Yoga instructor certification in a week, getting A’s in my accounting and finance classes, getting two more national certifications by next February, graduating on May 2011, and finally getting a job after I graduate :) One more thing, winning my next show in Nov. 19th in Vegas!!!
If you are one of my facebook friends, you remember my complaints about accounting class. I've never met people who like accounting, and neither do I. Apparently, I had to take my first and LAST accounting class for my MBA course to graduate. I did really bad on the first test because I didn't study enough. So, I had to study REALLY hard for the second test. In the mean time, I've been gaining weight. I was 118 lbs at my first show, which was July 20th. I gained 2 lbs at my second show, on August 10th. Since I finished two shows, I've been on a bulk phase, but it was not ok to gain pounds every day. I ended up being 127 lbs. Oh no! What could I say, I needed to lose weight. Anyway, my accounting test was my priority at that time, so I studied every day. Guess what? I got a 97 on the second test. Hallelujah!
I felt very rewarded. While I was studying for my classes, I had another big project coming up, getting my Personal Trainer Certification. I had planned on getting it this summer, but I had two competitions that I didn't plan on, so the PTC was pushed back until early Nov. Finally, it's getting close to Nov. and I had to study for sure. So, as soon as I finished my mid-terms, I studied everyday again for the certification. As you may know, I have two jobs, one at the Rec center and one at the Chamber of Commerce so it's been really challenging to work out as well. Anyway, I successfully got back to where I should be, 120 lbs after two weeks. Do you wonder what I did, even though I said I didn't have time to work out? How did Minsoo lost 7 lbs within two weeks?! I can tell you what I did in the next blog so make sure you come back to read it ;)
Another challenge came up, I got sick. You know being sick is the worst thing that could happen for those who have a competition in a few weeks. I had no energy and my body was tired. It was not good. Luckily I got over it pretty quickly. I slept more than usual and tried to rest more. I just had a video shoot for bikini posing and my trainer told me I looked good :) Yay! I'm still working on it, but definitely I've been gaining more muscles on the weak parts of my body.
Nov. 2nd. I made another accomplishment of my life! I passed the certification exam!!! Hallelujah :) It may not be a big deal for some people, but it was huge for me. First of all, it was a national certification exam and it's in English. Plus understanding and memorizing anatomy and physiology stuff was not easy even though I've been fitness instructor for a while, especially since I'm not an exercise science major. Even some of my friends didn't pass the test on the first time so it was very big deal for me.
Nov. 4th, which is today. Yes, it's another big day for me. It's my 26th B-day!!! I didn't want to tell you the NUMBER, but I think it's important to tell you so I can explain my story.
It's been my 6th B-day in the states. I miss celebrating my B-Day with my family. Yea. This sucks. However, at the same time, what I realized is how important they are and what being old means. When I was 20 or 21, it was my day, my celebration. I was happy to get presents. I know. I was young. Yesterday, I took some time to think about my life. I tried to think about people who I've met in my life and who made an impact on my life. I can't say thank you enough to my parents who have raised me for 20 years and are still supporting me. Thank God, who let me know what being loved means. Everything that I have is appreciated. I am so blessed. That's all I can say. I was kind of sad for going to school on my B-day and not being able to celebrate it with champagne, but guess what? Today is not my day. Today is my day to show appreciation for those who become a part of my life; for those who taught me so much; for those who love me and whom I love.
So what's next for Minsoo? My goals are; getting a Yoga instructor certification in a week, getting A’s in my accounting and finance classes, getting two more national certifications by next February, graduating on May 2011, and finally getting a job after I graduate :) One more thing, winning my next show in Nov. 19th in Vegas!!!
Find Minsoo on:
Facebook Fan Page - Minsoo Go
Minsoo Go
2010 NPC Capital of Texas Round Up Bikini Champion
AFAA Group Exercise Instructor
ACE Personal Trainer
Master of Business Administration
Texas State University
Stay Fit, Healthy, but YOU!
Monday, September 27, 2010
No More I Used To Be
Have you ever said or heard "I used to be..."? The common thing I hear from people who get trainers is: "I used to be good shape and I can't let myself be like this anymore."
We all were good at something at some point. I always say to people: "I used to be leaner." -Of course I'm talking about this past August when I had my competition- But guess what? Even though it's only less than two months ago, the past is the past. What matters is the present. "I used to" means "I'm not anymore." So does it matter whether you were in good shape or you worked out everyday? No. We need to stop saying "I used to."
I recently met my old friend Chris who I've known since 2005 when I got here in the states. He was one of my first American friends and he was also the one who motivated me to be fit. Chris and Minh, another old friend of mine worked out so hard and stayed on strict diets when we were at UTA. No drinking, no cheating for them. I loved working out with them because even looking at them motivated me. At that time, I was just one of girls who used the elliptical machine once a day and no weight lifting.
Three years later, I heard from Chris, and we had a chance to meet each other again. I was so excited to see him because I wanted to show him how different I am. I didn't know anything about nutrition or exercise when I met him, and now I could talk to him about what I like to do and what I like to eat.
I was surprised when I saw him. He looked very different than before. He gained lots of weight and lost muscle. I didnt see any of the old Chris in him. Don't get me wrong. He is still a good friend of mine whether he looks good or not, but I didn't expect that he wouldhave changed like that. I found that his life style has been changed in the past couple years for different reasons. He was also surprised about how I changed and I got into bodybuilding and fitness just like him 5 year ago.
I told him how he and Minh inspired me in the past, and I've always wanted to be fit. I told him how it's good to feel fit and healthy. I told him he should get back into shape again not only because of the look, but also because of the benefits he gets from living healthy life style. He seemed a little bit disappointed about himself but then he decided to start working out again. How amazing!!!
Two weeks from our reunion, Chris lost 15 lbs. Now he is catching up to me super quick! We encourage each other when we want to have "bad" food. Sometimes we cheat, but we work hard to be better than we were in the past.
Good thing about this is that it's never too late. You say I used to be a good shape. Don't you wanna be like that again? It's so easy. You already know what you gotta do. The only thing you need to do this time is to make a strong commitment and take the action. Tell your friends and family that what your commitments are. Losing weight? Going back to school? Being a good son or daughter? One of my favorite quotes is: "The bad news is time flies, but the good news is you are the pilot." You can do whatever you want to do. Move forward. Don't let the past to hold you back.
Find Minsoo at:
Facebook Fan Page - Minsoo Go
http://www.cyworld.com/minsoogo
http://twitter.com/minsoo_go
http://minsoogo.blogspot.com/
http://www.eyestrane.com/2010/06/23/caito-demo-reel-2010/
We all were good at something at some point. I always say to people: "I used to be leaner." -Of course I'm talking about this past August when I had my competition- But guess what? Even though it's only less than two months ago, the past is the past. What matters is the present. "I used to" means "I'm not anymore." So does it matter whether you were in good shape or you worked out everyday? No. We need to stop saying "I used to."
I recently met my old friend Chris who I've known since 2005 when I got here in the states. He was one of my first American friends and he was also the one who motivated me to be fit. Chris and Minh, another old friend of mine worked out so hard and stayed on strict diets when we were at UTA. No drinking, no cheating for them. I loved working out with them because even looking at them motivated me. At that time, I was just one of girls who used the elliptical machine once a day and no weight lifting.
Three years later, I heard from Chris, and we had a chance to meet each other again. I was so excited to see him because I wanted to show him how different I am. I didn't know anything about nutrition or exercise when I met him, and now I could talk to him about what I like to do and what I like to eat.
I was surprised when I saw him. He looked very different than before. He gained lots of weight and lost muscle. I didnt see any of the old Chris in him. Don't get me wrong. He is still a good friend of mine whether he looks good or not, but I didn't expect that he wouldhave changed like that. I found that his life style has been changed in the past couple years for different reasons. He was also surprised about how I changed and I got into bodybuilding and fitness just like him 5 year ago.
I told him how he and Minh inspired me in the past, and I've always wanted to be fit. I told him how it's good to feel fit and healthy. I told him he should get back into shape again not only because of the look, but also because of the benefits he gets from living healthy life style. He seemed a little bit disappointed about himself but then he decided to start working out again. How amazing!!!
Two weeks from our reunion, Chris lost 15 lbs. Now he is catching up to me super quick! We encourage each other when we want to have "bad" food. Sometimes we cheat, but we work hard to be better than we were in the past.
Good thing about this is that it's never too late. You say I used to be a good shape. Don't you wanna be like that again? It's so easy. You already know what you gotta do. The only thing you need to do this time is to make a strong commitment and take the action. Tell your friends and family that what your commitments are. Losing weight? Going back to school? Being a good son or daughter? One of my favorite quotes is: "The bad news is time flies, but the good news is you are the pilot." You can do whatever you want to do. Move forward. Don't let the past to hold you back.
Find Minsoo at:
Facebook Fan Page - Minsoo Go
http://www.cyworld.com/minsoogo
http://twitter.com/minsoo_go
http://minsoogo.blogspot.com/
http://www.eyestrane.com/2010/06/23/caito-demo-reel-2010/
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
It's All in Your Head
It's so easy. You just need to remind yourself of these five words: "You gotta believe in yourself."
I was at work, and we were evaluating our personal trainer, and during one of workouts something the trainer did caught my eye. He was doing box jumps. I've seen many people do it, and I always had my doubts if I could do it myself because it looked very SCARY! The trainer showed the client how to do it, and then client tried it. He didn't fall but he kinda missed. After the first try, he said hedidn't feel comfortable trying it any more. I said to my co-worker,Crystal, "Hey girl, I don't think even I could do it." And she said
"Yes, you can. It's all in your head." I stopped and thought about the words she said, "It's all in your head." That's right, I knew I could do it even though I said "I can't" because I can jump higher than the box. But when I started thinking "Ican't", I suddenly believed I couldn't do it anymore.
Have you had this feeling? Sometimes, the barriers we have in front us block our mind and keep us from achieving our goals. If I had told myself I wouldn't be able to learn English because it's so hard, then I never would have made it as far as I have today. It was not easy for me to come to another country, speaking a different language, getting my degree and living all by myself for 6 years without my family and friends. However, when I decided to come to the United States in 2005 the only thing that was in my head was I CAN DO IT.
Isn't it amazing? The right words can change your attitude and your whole life.
So are you gonna keep saying I can't or I can ?
Find Minsoo at:
Facebook Fan Page-Minsoo Go
http://www.eyestrane.com/2010/06/23/caito-demo-reel-2010/
http://www.cyworld.com/minsoogo
http://twitter.com/minsoo_go
http://minsoogo.blogspot.com/
I was at work, and we were evaluating our personal trainer, and during one of workouts something the trainer did caught my eye. He was doing box jumps. I've seen many people do it, and I always had my doubts if I could do it myself because it looked very SCARY! The trainer showed the client how to do it, and then client tried it. He didn't fall but he kinda missed. After the first try, he said hedidn't feel comfortable trying it any more. I said to my co-worker,Crystal, "Hey girl, I don't think even I could do it." And she said
"Yes, you can. It's all in your head." I stopped and thought about the words she said, "It's all in your head." That's right, I knew I could do it even though I said "I can't" because I can jump higher than the box. But when I started thinking "Ican't", I suddenly believed I couldn't do it anymore.
Have you had this feeling? Sometimes, the barriers we have in front us block our mind and keep us from achieving our goals. If I had told myself I wouldn't be able to learn English because it's so hard, then I never would have made it as far as I have today. It was not easy for me to come to another country, speaking a different language, getting my degree and living all by myself for 6 years without my family and friends. However, when I decided to come to the United States in 2005 the only thing that was in my head was I CAN DO IT.
Isn't it amazing? The right words can change your attitude and your whole life.
So are you gonna keep saying I can't or I can ?
Find Minsoo at:
Facebook Fan Page-Minsoo Go
http://www.eyestrane.com/2010/06/23/caito-demo-reel-2010/
http://www.cyworld.com/minsoogo
http://twitter.com/minsoo_go
http://minsoogo.blogspot.com/
Sunday, September 19, 2010
What You Don't Know About Minsoo:
1. I don't have a laptop - Mine broke early this year and I really didn't think that I needed another one. I will get one after I graduate, when I get a job, but right now I can live without it.
2. I haven't watched TV since I was in high school. - I just think that watching TV is a waste of time. Of course there are good channels to watch, for example, the news, but I don't have TV anyway.
3. I don't have a smart phone. I like to keep my phone bill low, about $35.00/month. I would love to have an iPhone though since I don't have a computer AND I get lost ALOT while I'm driving.
4. I have freckles... which is not normal for Asians. I had NONE before I came to Texas but since I have been living here I have gotten freckles on my cheeks and on top of my nose. I like them though cuz it makes me feel like I'm becoming a real TEXAN!!!!
5. I had 11 slices of pizza when I was 9th grade. We went to a buffet and me and my four girlfriends had an eating competition... and I WON!!!
6. I went to both Women's middle school and women's high school so I didn't have a boyfriend until I graduated high school.
7. I have ADD. I didn't realize until one of my friends told me. Yes, I do have ADD.
8. I didn't play any sports while I was growing up. It's not my fault. Our society expects students to be smart. Our goal was getting into a GOOD university.
9. I started Jazz Dance after I graduated high school. I wanted to be a professional dancer but I decided to come to the states and I've not danced for quite awhile... but I still LOVE to dance.
10. I pretend to understand what you say. Sometime I don't understand 100% what you said because I don't pay attention (because I have ADD) or I just don't understand because you are speaking ENGLISH! So I might say something really weird or not react. Please don't feel bad.
11. One more thing, I don't usually laugh at American jokes... Sorry. It's just not funny to me. I will try though.
12. I can't take cafein. If I do, I go super hyper and I can't handle myself and none of you..
13. I am selfish and I make excuses. - I am super busy this semester. I work 8-9 hours/day doing my job at the Rec. Center and internship at the Chamber. I take two MBA classes, Finance and Accounting, both which I don't like. I have a bodybuilding competition in 7 weeks so I'm training for that. I have two certification exams in 5 weeks which means I use my spare time to study. As you know, I just started modeling, so most of weekends are spent on photo shoots. I'm so sorry if I haven't talked to you or hung out with you like I used to. However, I really want you all to know how much you mean to me and how much I appreciate your support. Thank you!
Find Minsoo at:
http://www.eyestrane.com/2010/06/23/caito-demo-reel-2010/
http://www.cyworld.com/minsoogo
http://twitter.com/minsoo_go
2. I haven't watched TV since I was in high school. - I just think that watching TV is a waste of time. Of course there are good channels to watch, for example, the news, but I don't have TV anyway.
3. I don't have a smart phone. I like to keep my phone bill low, about $35.00/month. I would love to have an iPhone though since I don't have a computer AND I get lost ALOT while I'm driving.
4. I have freckles... which is not normal for Asians. I had NONE before I came to Texas but since I have been living here I have gotten freckles on my cheeks and on top of my nose. I like them though cuz it makes me feel like I'm becoming a real TEXAN!!!!
5. I had 11 slices of pizza when I was 9th grade. We went to a buffet and me and my four girlfriends had an eating competition... and I WON!!!
6. I went to both Women's middle school and women's high school so I didn't have a boyfriend until I graduated high school.
7. I have ADD. I didn't realize until one of my friends told me. Yes, I do have ADD.
8. I didn't play any sports while I was growing up. It's not my fault. Our society expects students to be smart. Our goal was getting into a GOOD university.
9. I started Jazz Dance after I graduated high school. I wanted to be a professional dancer but I decided to come to the states and I've not danced for quite awhile... but I still LOVE to dance.
10. I pretend to understand what you say. Sometime I don't understand 100% what you said because I don't pay attention (because I have ADD) or I just don't understand because you are speaking ENGLISH! So I might say something really weird or not react. Please don't feel bad.
11. One more thing, I don't usually laugh at American jokes... Sorry. It's just not funny to me. I will try though.
12. I can't take cafein. If I do, I go super hyper and I can't handle myself and none of you..
13. I am selfish and I make excuses. - I am super busy this semester. I work 8-9 hours/day doing my job at the Rec. Center and internship at the Chamber. I take two MBA classes, Finance and Accounting, both which I don't like. I have a bodybuilding competition in 7 weeks so I'm training for that. I have two certification exams in 5 weeks which means I use my spare time to study. As you know, I just started modeling, so most of weekends are spent on photo shoots. I'm so sorry if I haven't talked to you or hung out with you like I used to. However, I really want you all to know how much you mean to me and how much I appreciate your support. Thank you!
http://www.eyestrane.com/2010/06/23/caito-demo-reel-2010/
http://www.cyworld.com/minsoogo
http://twitter.com/minsoo_go
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
A Letter From 9th Grade Boy
This letter made me think about something how I can help others while I'm doing what I like to do. Whatever my attention was, I could hurt others whether I like it or not. This could be sensitive issue for some people, but I also want you to think about it.
I posted my competition pictures on my Cyworld page, a Korean Facebook and I got a letter from a 9th grade boy.
Hi Minsoo! I'm one of your top fans living in Korea. I'm 9th grade and I exercise hard even though I'm pretty young. How long have you been worked out? I would like to compete in the states. Well, I know it's awkward but I get excited whenever I see pictures of you wearing the white bikinis cuz you look so amazing.. If I see your pictures, I get excited in 3 sec. I've never had this before. Is it natural??
You look so fit and amazing with bikinis.. Is it ok if I masturbate looking at your photos? I know it's awkward to ask these kind of questions but please answer. I'm sorry if I made you mad.
When I read this letter, I was like what the hell. Right? I felt totally uncomfortable, and I was about to delete what he just wrote. But then I thought 'what if everything what he said was true?' Suddenly I didn't want to ignore him and want to help him instead. I have a brother who is three yrs younger than me, and I remember that I gave him such a hard time while he was growing up. When my brother was a freshman in high school, I found that he was watching a porno. I thought I had to preach him about it as a "big" sister and I told him not to do it again. Basically I made him feel so stupid. Couple of years later, I realized the way I approached the issue was not good. I should have dealt the issue differently and understood him better because you know it is nothing wrong with watching a porn for those age. Ever since then, my brother never talked to me about anything anymore. I still feel bad and I wish I could change.
Anyway, I thought about my past experience and I wanted to do something different. I wanted to let this 9th grade boy know that I do care about how he feels and help him if possible. I replied him back and this is what I wrote to him:
Hello, fist of all, thanks for being my fan. I'm glad you like what I'm doing as a bodybuilder. I'm very impressed that you've been already working out hard. I started lifting weights this mid April and it took me about 3-4months to get ready for the competition. However I've been working out since 2005 when I got here in the states. For the competition, I pay more attention what I eat and how much I eat. I also added proper cardio and weight training work out. It is not necessary to have a specific timeline, but most importantly to have fitness&wellness as a part of your life style. For the second questions, I do understand since I have a little brother. Especially, it's not easy for teenagers to control the sexual desire, however it is also important to practice control your self. I'm not going to tell you what to do, but if I could give you an advice, I would recommend you to release your energy to do any sports you like or do exercise. Proper and steady exercise, nutrition, and strong resection - for example no smoking and drinking. Being a bodybuilder is not easy. Focus on your goals and discipline is the key. I want you to spend more time doing something make you healthy and good. Maybe you can make your own soccer team!
The next day, he edited what he wrote to this:"Thank you so much for your kind advice and yes I would like to play more soccer. I told my friends about you. You are awesome! I loved your motto, lifestyle fitness&wellness. Good luck on your next competition! and sorry if I made you feel awkward." Guess what? I felt pretty good. I felt that I could help this boy without hurting his feeling. Hopefully, these will make some changes to his life. and even to his friends. I'm sure there are many males (maybe females) who see my pictures. Some of them may think the same way this boy did. I obviously do not want to give anyone bad influence. I want them to see myself as an athletic and to know that having a healthy body is good. Everyone has a choice to make. It is up to you whether you want to spend your time doing something good for yourself, or wasting your time with doing something meaningless.
I would like to hear what you think so please don't hesitate if you want to share any thoughts and/or concerns!
p.s. Didn't have enough time to proofread.. Sorry if you have hard time to understand what I just wrote!
I posted my competition pictures on my Cyworld page, a Korean Facebook and I got a letter from a 9th grade boy.
Hi Minsoo! I'm one of your top fans living in Korea. I'm 9th grade and I exercise hard even though I'm pretty young. How long have you been worked out? I would like to compete in the states. Well, I know it's awkward but I get excited whenever I see pictures of you wearing the white bikinis cuz you look so amazing.. If I see your pictures, I get excited in 3 sec. I've never had this before. Is it natural??
You look so fit and amazing with bikinis.. Is it ok if I masturbate looking at your photos? I know it's awkward to ask these kind of questions but please answer. I'm sorry if I made you mad.
When I read this letter, I was like what the hell. Right? I felt totally uncomfortable, and I was about to delete what he just wrote. But then I thought 'what if everything what he said was true?' Suddenly I didn't want to ignore him and want to help him instead. I have a brother who is three yrs younger than me, and I remember that I gave him such a hard time while he was growing up. When my brother was a freshman in high school, I found that he was watching a porno. I thought I had to preach him about it as a "big" sister and I told him not to do it again. Basically I made him feel so stupid. Couple of years later, I realized the way I approached the issue was not good. I should have dealt the issue differently and understood him better because you know it is nothing wrong with watching a porn for those age. Ever since then, my brother never talked to me about anything anymore. I still feel bad and I wish I could change.
Anyway, I thought about my past experience and I wanted to do something different. I wanted to let this 9th grade boy know that I do care about how he feels and help him if possible. I replied him back and this is what I wrote to him:
Hello, fist of all, thanks for being my fan. I'm glad you like what I'm doing as a bodybuilder. I'm very impressed that you've been already working out hard. I started lifting weights this mid April and it took me about 3-4months to get ready for the competition. However I've been working out since 2005 when I got here in the states. For the competition, I pay more attention what I eat and how much I eat. I also added proper cardio and weight training work out. It is not necessary to have a specific timeline, but most importantly to have fitness&wellness as a part of your life style. For the second questions, I do understand since I have a little brother. Especially, it's not easy for teenagers to control the sexual desire, however it is also important to practice control your self. I'm not going to tell you what to do, but if I could give you an advice, I would recommend you to release your energy to do any sports you like or do exercise. Proper and steady exercise, nutrition, and strong resection - for example no smoking and drinking. Being a bodybuilder is not easy. Focus on your goals and discipline is the key. I want you to spend more time doing something make you healthy and good. Maybe you can make your own soccer team!
The next day, he edited what he wrote to this:"Thank you so much for your kind advice and yes I would like to play more soccer. I told my friends about you. You are awesome! I loved your motto, lifestyle fitness&wellness. Good luck on your next competition! and sorry if I made you feel awkward." Guess what? I felt pretty good. I felt that I could help this boy without hurting his feeling. Hopefully, these will make some changes to his life. and even to his friends. I'm sure there are many males (maybe females) who see my pictures. Some of them may think the same way this boy did. I obviously do not want to give anyone bad influence. I want them to see myself as an athletic and to know that having a healthy body is good. Everyone has a choice to make. It is up to you whether you want to spend your time doing something good for yourself, or wasting your time with doing something meaningless.
I would like to hear what you think so please don't hesitate if you want to share any thoughts and/or concerns!
p.s. Didn't have enough time to proofread.. Sorry if you have hard time to understand what I just wrote!
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Fan of the Week: Minsoo Go by Diabetes Health And Wellness Institute- Dallas
Our first fan of the week for September is Minsoo Go a fitness competitor, instructor and MBA student. Her story is particularly interesting because she believes in practicing what she preaches when it comes to fitness. Minsoo was the Bikini overall champion in April at the NPC capital of Texas round up competition.
DHWI: Minsoo What kind of work are you up to these days?
MG: I’m a Graduate Assistant for Fitness and Wellness at the Campus Recreation Department – Texas State University. I oversee the 6,000 sq weight room, a personal training and a group exercise program. I also teach group exercise classes such as Cycle, toning and 20/20/5 which is a cardio workout class.
DHWI: How do you contribute to the health and wellness community?
MG: I really do think living a healthy life is necessary whether you have diabetes or not and we need to bring the healthy life style into our community because healthy body not only brings the individual the best but also their family and work place. Because I work for the university, I deal with most of college students. I educate our student staff to live better life changing their diet and staring exercise. I share my life style for example how I got into fitness. I also try to educate my friends, family and students who come to our group exercise classes about the proper nutrition and workout.
DHWI: How do you see diabetes effecting our community?
MG: I’ve seen many people including little kids who are obese everywhere in Texas. I get really worried when I see obese children because if they don't change their habits soon they will have many health problems. I think it’s important to protect our kids because they are the one who will lead the next century and we want them to be healthy.
DHWI: What is the number one piece of advice that you'd give a newly diagnosed diabetic?
MG: Have a designing nutrition program based on what you are eating and what time you are eating. For example, follow a low fat diet, consuming whole grains, and no sugars (ex. Sweet drinks, candy, too much juice) eaten alone.
DHWI: What steps are you taking toward your own personal health and wellness goals right now?
MG: My goal is to make fitness and wellness as my life style. I plan my day around exercise. It is important so I schedule my work out like an appointment and treat it as a real appointment. I also always try to think positive and be happy!! Smile everyday. It makes everything better including your health. J
DHWI: Is there anything else you'd like to share with the DHWI community?
MG: Become a chef! I’ve never liked cooking but now I love to cook. Making your own healthy food is fun and it can make your relationships better too. Invite your family and friends to share what you make. The best part of being a chef is you know what you like the most and what’s in your food which will help you reduce excessive sugar or oil if needed. Don’t forget to cook CLEAN food!!
http://www.facebook.com/notes/diabetes-health-and-wellness-institute-dallas/fan-of-the-week-minsoo-go/147881618578962
DHWI: Minsoo What kind of work are you up to these days?
MG: I’m a Graduate Assistant for Fitness and Wellness at the Campus Recreation Department – Texas State University. I oversee the 6,000 sq weight room, a personal training and a group exercise program. I also teach group exercise classes such as Cycle, toning and 20/20/5 which is a cardio workout class.
DHWI: How do you contribute to the health and wellness community?
MG: I really do think living a healthy life is necessary whether you have diabetes or not and we need to bring the healthy life style into our community because healthy body not only brings the individual the best but also their family and work place. Because I work for the university, I deal with most of college students. I educate our student staff to live better life changing their diet and staring exercise. I share my life style for example how I got into fitness. I also try to educate my friends, family and students who come to our group exercise classes about the proper nutrition and workout.
DHWI: How do you see diabetes effecting our community?
MG: I’ve seen many people including little kids who are obese everywhere in Texas. I get really worried when I see obese children because if they don't change their habits soon they will have many health problems. I think it’s important to protect our kids because they are the one who will lead the next century and we want them to be healthy.
DHWI: What is the number one piece of advice that you'd give a newly diagnosed diabetic?
MG: Have a designing nutrition program based on what you are eating and what time you are eating. For example, follow a low fat diet, consuming whole grains, and no sugars (ex. Sweet drinks, candy, too much juice) eaten alone.
DHWI: What steps are you taking toward your own personal health and wellness goals right now?
MG: My goal is to make fitness and wellness as my life style. I plan my day around exercise. It is important so I schedule my work out like an appointment and treat it as a real appointment. I also always try to think positive and be happy!! Smile everyday. It makes everything better including your health. J
DHWI: Is there anything else you'd like to share with the DHWI community?
MG: Become a chef! I’ve never liked cooking but now I love to cook. Making your own healthy food is fun and it can make your relationships better too. Invite your family and friends to share what you make. The best part of being a chef is you know what you like the most and what’s in your food which will help you reduce excessive sugar or oil if needed. Don’t forget to cook CLEAN food!!
http://www.facebook.com/notes/diabetes-health-and-wellness-institute-dallas/fan-of-the-week-minsoo-go/147881618578962
Monday, August 30, 2010
My Mom Called Me at 3:30 A.M. And Guess What...???
I've been trying to read my finance class text book since 9 pm so what I'm saying right now might not make sense. Sorry about that if my English is very poor. Anyway, I just wanted to share a short story of "Finally My Mom Knew about It"
If you have read my blogs you would have a good idea of what my situation is. So if you haven't, please go b ack and read it. I can promise you it will be interesting! :)
I got a phone call from my mom who is in Korea at 3:30 A.M. My mom should know better it's 3:30 AM in Texas so I figured something happened because my mom NEVER calls me at 3:30 AM unless it's an emergency situation. Of course I missed it because I was sleeping and I kinda guessed why my mom called me and I was thinking.... "oh crap"
If you are guessing right now, your guess will be probably right. My called me again and she started:
Mom: "So, what have you been doing?."
Me: "Umm.. what??"
Mom: "Well, your brother told me 'Mom, Minsoo has better body than I do.' So I was like what are you talking about? then your brother said 'Ok. Mom. Come here. I will show you'"
Me: "Ah, that pictures? Mom, I had a competition and I WON. I forgot to tell you. Did you like my pictures? I look hot. Right?"
I tried to make the conversation as normal as possible because I knew she would be mad at me.
Mom: "So what is it? Are you still studying or just working out everyday?"
Me: "Mom, that's what I do when I have free time. I went to Chile and still working at the Rec. I made two B's over the summer. You know me. I always take care of myself."
Mom: "I was freaked out when I saw your pictures, but looks like you put some hard work there."
Me: "Well, mom. It's all genetic. you know. I didn't even work hard to have it" -Yes, I lied.. You know I worked out three times a day-
Mom: "No, it's not true. How could you have body like that with out training? Your hard work paid off. You looked amazing. I'm so proud of you."
What? Is it really? I couldn't believe what I just heard. "I'm so proud of you!" You can't imagine how much I was excited because I've always thought that my mom would be so against of what I'm doing. Not like what I expected, she even asked me to write down what I've been eating.
Mom: "Make sure to write down everything what you ate, so I can make them for your brother and your dad."
Wow, isn't it crazy? My mom actually thinks that what I do is AMAZING!!! And she even asks me some tips of my diets. Mom, they are all what you cook for me while I was growing up. :)
Sometimes what you think is wrong. Maybe you thought that your parents would never understand you. But guess what? They were some point at your age and think like you are. The key was communication. If I told her what my vision was and why I'm doing this, she would probably understand me and even support me. I don't think my mom told my dad because he is even more stick than my mom, but it's ok. He will be very proud of me soon too!
The main thing that I learned since I've left home for six years is to be appreciate what I have. I've learned that how much my family was meant to me. My brother or my sister may not miss me or they may not know how much I am important to them now, but because I know it I always say "I love you" to them whenever I can. How about you? Do you say enough "I love you" to people who you love? Or you think that they are annoyed because you see them everyday. You need to show it otherwise they wouldn't know and you will regret later . Say you love them today. Don't wait until tomorrow. Today might be your last chance to say it. I love my family so much and having them makes me smile even though they are thousands miles away from me.
If you have read my blogs you would have a good idea of what my situation is. So if you haven't, please go b ack and read it. I can promise you it will be interesting! :)
I got a phone call from my mom who is in Korea at 3:30 A.M. My mom should know better it's 3:30 AM in Texas so I figured something happened because my mom NEVER calls me at 3:30 AM unless it's an emergency situation. Of course I missed it because I was sleeping and I kinda guessed why my mom called me and I was thinking.... "oh crap"
(FYI. I have a brother who is three years younger than me and he just started working out and even hired a personal trainer.)
If you are guessing right now, your guess will be probably right. My called me again and she started:
Mom: "So, what have you been doing?."
Me: "Umm.. what??"
Mom: "Well, your brother told me 'Mom, Minsoo has better body than I do.' So I was like what are you talking about? then your brother said 'Ok. Mom. Come here. I will show you'"
Me: "Ah, that pictures? Mom, I had a competition and I WON. I forgot to tell you. Did you like my pictures? I look hot. Right?"
I tried to make the conversation as normal as possible because I knew she would be mad at me.
Mom: "So what is it? Are you still studying or just working out everyday?"
Me: "Mom, that's what I do when I have free time. I went to Chile and still working at the Rec. I made two B's over the summer. You know me. I always take care of myself."
Mom: "I was freaked out when I saw your pictures, but looks like you put some hard work there."
Me: "Well, mom. It's all genetic. you know. I didn't even work hard to have it" -Yes, I lied.. You know I worked out three times a day-
Mom: "No, it's not true. How could you have body like that with out training? Your hard work paid off. You looked amazing. I'm so proud of you."
What? Is it really? I couldn't believe what I just heard. "I'm so proud of you!" You can't imagine how much I was excited because I've always thought that my mom would be so against of what I'm doing. Not like what I expected, she even asked me to write down what I've been eating.
Mom: "Make sure to write down everything what you ate, so I can make them for your brother and your dad."
Wow, isn't it crazy? My mom actually thinks that what I do is AMAZING!!! And she even asks me some tips of my diets. Mom, they are all what you cook for me while I was growing up. :)
Sometimes what you think is wrong. Maybe you thought that your parents would never understand you. But guess what? They were some point at your age and think like you are. The key was communication. If I told her what my vision was and why I'm doing this, she would probably understand me and even support me. I don't think my mom told my dad because he is even more stick than my mom, but it's ok. He will be very proud of me soon too!
The main thing that I learned since I've left home for six years is to be appreciate what I have. I've learned that how much my family was meant to me. My brother or my sister may not miss me or they may not know how much I am important to them now, but because I know it I always say "I love you" to them whenever I can. How about you? Do you say enough "I love you" to people who you love? Or you think that they are annoyed because you see them everyday. You need to show it otherwise they wouldn't know and you will regret later . Say you love them today. Don't wait until tomorrow. Today might be your last chance to say it. I love my family so much and having them makes me smile even though they are thousands miles away from me.
Monday, August 16, 2010
"Minsoo To Vegas" Sponsorship Letter
Dear Whom May It Concern,
My name is Minsoo, and I was born and grown up in Seoul, South Korea. In the summer of 2005, I came to the United States to learn English. After 6 months of learning English, I decided to get my B.A in Public Relations at the University of Texas at Arlington. While I was studying at UTA, I became involved with fitness and started working out. The concept of fitness is still not common in Korea and many of Asian countries. Many young women think that being skinny is the most important thing and they care more about how they look than being healthy or being well. I thought I was fat and I never wore shorts or skirts in Korea because the natural muscle in my legs was considered fat and unattractive.
Since living in the U.S. fitness has changed my life quite a bit. One day, I realized why I came to the U.S. and how I could live all alone for six years away from my family and friends. God gives everyone a gift. I’ve always wondered what my gifts are. I believe my physique, courage, confidence, persistence, and strong will power are my gifts that I have found so far. I want to share my personal story with others and impact their lives. Becoming a fitness model will allow me to further my education and become a role model to the Asian community as well as college aged individuals internationally. This journey has been difficult both mentally and physically, but I am slowly working towards reaching my ultimate goal to spread fitness to the world. Currently, I am pursuing Masters of Business Administration (MBA) and working as a graduate assistant for Fitness and Wellness at Texas State University while trying to attain my own personal fitness goals at the same time.
On July 10th, 2010, I competed in my first show, the NPC 2010 Branch Warren Classic and I placed 4th in Bikini Class A. On August 7th, 2010, I gained Bikini Overall Champion at the NPC Capital of Texas Roundup. I started training in past April 2010. Four months later, I reached my first goal, to be the overall champion. Although I am qualified to compete at the National level, I can’t enter the competition because it is only open to the U.S. Citizens. I’ve found another opportunity to compete with a different organization called Fitness Universe, an international level fitness competition. My next step will be to compete this November in Las Vegas for the fitness model division. I can promise that I will work my hardest to take home the winning title of the competition. I believe I can make it happen. My goals in competing are to gain exposure and to become a widely-known fitness model /inspirational speaker, as well as being a positive role model for everyone.
However, I will not be able to compete until I can afford the competition. I am a graduate assistant and student who only receives a monthly stipend. The entry fee for the competition is $180. This fee does not include transportation, accommodations, suits, make-up/hair, meals or hotel costs. I’m not a professional model but modeling comes natural to me. I will not ask that you give a specific amount of financial support, but any amount of contribution or other related support would be greatly appreciated.
I look forward to setting up a meeting to further discuss our partnership. Please feel free to contact me at iyor2514@yahoo.com. if you need more information. Thank you in advance for your consideration and support.
Sincerely,
Minsoo Go
NPC 2010 Capital of Texas Roundup – Bikini Overall Champion
Graduate Assistant – Fitness & Wellness
Department of Campus Recreation
Master of Business Administration
Texas State University
My name is Minsoo, and I was born and grown up in Seoul, South Korea. In the summer of 2005, I came to the United States to learn English. After 6 months of learning English, I decided to get my B.A in Public Relations at the University of Texas at Arlington. While I was studying at UTA, I became involved with fitness and started working out. The concept of fitness is still not common in Korea and many of Asian countries. Many young women think that being skinny is the most important thing and they care more about how they look than being healthy or being well. I thought I was fat and I never wore shorts or skirts in Korea because the natural muscle in my legs was considered fat and unattractive.
Since living in the U.S. fitness has changed my life quite a bit. One day, I realized why I came to the U.S. and how I could live all alone for six years away from my family and friends. God gives everyone a gift. I’ve always wondered what my gifts are. I believe my physique, courage, confidence, persistence, and strong will power are my gifts that I have found so far. I want to share my personal story with others and impact their lives. Becoming a fitness model will allow me to further my education and become a role model to the Asian community as well as college aged individuals internationally. This journey has been difficult both mentally and physically, but I am slowly working towards reaching my ultimate goal to spread fitness to the world. Currently, I am pursuing Masters of Business Administration (MBA) and working as a graduate assistant for Fitness and Wellness at Texas State University while trying to attain my own personal fitness goals at the same time.
On July 10th, 2010, I competed in my first show, the NPC 2010 Branch Warren Classic and I placed 4th in Bikini Class A. On August 7th, 2010, I gained Bikini Overall Champion at the NPC Capital of Texas Roundup. I started training in past April 2010. Four months later, I reached my first goal, to be the overall champion. Although I am qualified to compete at the National level, I can’t enter the competition because it is only open to the U.S. Citizens. I’ve found another opportunity to compete with a different organization called Fitness Universe, an international level fitness competition. My next step will be to compete this November in Las Vegas for the fitness model division. I can promise that I will work my hardest to take home the winning title of the competition. I believe I can make it happen. My goals in competing are to gain exposure and to become a widely-known fitness model /inspirational speaker, as well as being a positive role model for everyone.
However, I will not be able to compete until I can afford the competition. I am a graduate assistant and student who only receives a monthly stipend. The entry fee for the competition is $180. This fee does not include transportation, accommodations, suits, make-up/hair, meals or hotel costs. I’m not a professional model but modeling comes natural to me. I will not ask that you give a specific amount of financial support, but any amount of contribution or other related support would be greatly appreciated.
I look forward to setting up a meeting to further discuss our partnership. Please feel free to contact me at iyor2514@yahoo.com. if you need more information. Thank you in advance for your consideration and support.
Sincerely,
Minsoo Go
NPC 2010 Capital of Texas Roundup – Bikini Overall Champion
Graduate Assistant – Fitness & Wellness
Department of Campus Recreation
Master of Business Administration
Texas State University
Thursday, August 12, 2010
My Second Competition - 2010 NPC Capital of Texas RounUp
Last Saturday, August 7th, 2010 I had my second competition in Austin, TX. It was National Qualifier. From the last competition, July 10th, I knew I had to work more on my posing, I focused on posing and I still worked out constantly for four weeks. Hard work paid off, I gained Bikini Overall Champion at the end of the show. Of course, I was very excited :) It was amazing meeting people who love being fit as much as I do. I got some good networks and learned more about the body building. It was a baby step for me to reach my goal to be a world-wide famous fitness model. Many of my friends ask me what's next?
I will be competing at the Fitness Universe in November. It's in Las Vegas and it's an international show. I'm pretty excited to see competitors from Korea as well. My plan is to be the Ms. Fitness Model Universe from the show. Can I? I think so. Everyone gets presents from God and mines are: courage, my physique, confidence, persistence, and strong will power. I'm sure there are more, but those are what I've found over the past years. God brought me here to the United States and let me know about fitness. He gave me so many opportunities to lead me where I am now. It was obvious, so I'm not going to resist it. It may sound crazy for some people, but that's how I feel about fitness. Sometimes this journey has been difficult both mentally and physically, but I am slowly working towards reaching my ultimate goal; to spread fitness to the world.
Apparently my family do not know about me competing and actually I know that my parents won't be happy with what I'm doing right now. They are pretty conservative and they think that wearing bikinis in front of public is not appropriate. I wish I could get support from my family like many others do, but it's ok. They will understand me later when I become a famous fitness model who is inspiring others to live healthy life style. :)
Until then, I will eat, sleep, and breath for fitness!
Saturday, July 17, 2010
Head Standing - Ashtanga Yoga
•Step 1
Kneel on a mat, lacing your fingers together to create a semicircle with your palms, set your forearms on the floor, shoulder width apart
•Step 2
Draw your shoulders back to open your chest and feel strong through the arms. Exhaling, lengthen through the back of your neck and extend the back of your head into your palms, cupping your head. Lightly pressing your head on the mat, lift your shoulders up and away from your ears. Using your toes to raise your hips, begin to shift your weight evenly onto your forearms and clasped hands to form a base for your headstand.
•Step 3
Walk your feet in towards your face, lifting your hips, draw them directly over your shoulders. Next, press down through your arms and slide your shoulder blades up to release any tension in your neck, simultaneously aligning your pelvis with your shoulders.
•Step 4
Keeping your toes on the floor, sway your hips back. Inhaling, draw your kneecaps and thigh muscles up, floating your feet up off the floor. Transferring most of your weight to your arms and a little to your head, lift your legs to form a right angle.
•Step 5
Continuing to inhale, raise your legs together, stretching them upwards into a full headstand. While in the full headstand, look at your nose while focusing on the even support of the forearms. Beginners can opt to ease into the pose by bringing your feet up one at a time, gradually working towards bringing them up together.
•Step 6
Come down from the headstand. Lift your pelvis and lower your feet to the floor. Next, bend your knees and sit on your heels, rest your head on the floor and bring your arms back. Drop your elbows and rest in this position for at least two minutes. Inhaling, place your hands underneath your shoulder and lift your head and chest, slowly roll up into a standing position.
Sourses:eHow.com
Benefits Of Head Stand (Salamba Sirshasana)
- The Head Stand helps relieve stress and mild depression by calming the brain
- It stimulates the pituitary and pineal glands\
- The head stand also strengthens the arms, legs, chest, abdomen and spine
- It helps to tone up the abdominal organs and improve digestion
- The Head Stand helps alleviate symptoms of menopause
- It is also very beneficial for asthmatics, insomniacs, and those suffering from sinusitis
- Moreover, you relax all your muscles and build up power, structure, strength, and stability in your neck, upper back and arms.
- The Head Stand should be avoided by people suffering from headaches, heart condition, low and high blood pressure, neck and back injury and during menstruation
- Pregnant women can continue to practice it late into pregnancy only if they are experienced and comfortable with pose. Never, ever start practicing Sirshasana after getting pregnant.
- Sirshasana is an advanced pose that should never be done without adequate prior experience or without the guidance of a trained and experienced tutor.
Friday, July 16, 2010
My First Competition - NPC Branch Warren 2010 July 10th
How Did I Prepare for the Competition?
WEEK 1 (April 19th-April 25th) - That's when I started working out for the competition. I didn't have a trainer and didn't really know what I should do, but I knew about my body. I know what I like and what works for me. I started with total body weight training. Basically I spent about one hour and thirty min to work on total body. However, I didn't change any of my diet. I believe that what I eat is already healthy and clean- which is Korean food :) I still did cardio not everyday, but often. I taught Cycle&Abs class every Thursday morning and went to yoga class two or three times a week. After one week of total body training, one of our awesome trainers, Dave told me I should separate my work out: upper and lower body.
WEEK 2 (April 26th-May 2nd) - Started lower/upper workout. One day I did lower body work out and then next day I did upper body. I still went to yoga and did cardio. Not everyday because I was busy with school and work but tried to do it every other day.
WEEK 3,4 (May 3rd-May 16th) - I checked my body fat % and it was 16.5%. I still did the same work out upper and lower and added cardio everyday with abs. Still my diet was the same like my normal diet.
WEEK 5,6, (May 17th-May 29th) - I forgot who that was but one of our trainers told me I should separate my work out. So I did two body part training. Ex. Shoulders and triceps; back and biceps; chest and shoulders, legs. Started about 40-50 min of morning cardio everyday. I knew what my weakness: shoulders and arms. So I did twice a week of shoulders and arms work out. My body fat was 15 %.
WEEK 7,8 (May 30st-June 10th) - Hardcore work out. I tried to do cardio twice a day. Morning and evening. Afternoon weight training. It was hard because I still had to work 10-5pm and had two summer classes. My diet? I had to say good-bye my favorite chocolate Ferraro Roche!! It was pretty big deal for me. And I tried super hard not to drink. Which means I still drank little bit... which is not allowed for those who compete. Body fat was 11.4% with 118 lbs.
WEEK 9,10 (June 11th-June23rd) - I went to Chile for almost two weeks and it was very harsh on my training because I couldn't eat right and couldn't work out regularly either. I had to try to eat whatever I could find and I still did cardio every morning while I was in Chile. I feel bad to tell you this but I cheated A LOT while I was in Chile. I ate ice cream and sandwich burger, and drank pisco sour and wine!!
WEEK 11,12 (June 24th) - Came back to the states and Crystal, one of my friends who also compete for figure, told me if I have a trainer and posing coach. Of course I didn't. She highly recommend me to have a trainer/posing coach so I did. I met with my trainer once a week and I followed his work out plan which is basically focus on one body part: legs, shoulder and arms, back, and chest. I also watched YouTube to learn more about bikini posing. I only thing that I changed for my diet was breakfast. I usually ate cereal in the morning but I changed to one grape fruit and 3 white eggs. It was good because I liked them ALOT!! Worked out three times a day. Morning cardio, afternoon weight training, and short evening cardio. July 8th my body fat was 10.3% with 118 lbs.
WEEK 1 (April 19th-April 25th) - That's when I started working out for the competition. I didn't have a trainer and didn't really know what I should do, but I knew about my body. I know what I like and what works for me. I started with total body weight training. Basically I spent about one hour and thirty min to work on total body. However, I didn't change any of my diet. I believe that what I eat is already healthy and clean- which is Korean food :) I still did cardio not everyday, but often. I taught Cycle&Abs class every Thursday morning and went to yoga class two or three times a week. After one week of total body training, one of our awesome trainers, Dave told me I should separate my work out: upper and lower body.
WEEK 2 (April 26th-May 2nd) - Started lower/upper workout. One day I did lower body work out and then next day I did upper body. I still went to yoga and did cardio. Not everyday because I was busy with school and work but tried to do it every other day.
WEEK 3,4 (May 3rd-May 16th) - I checked my body fat % and it was 16.5%. I still did the same work out upper and lower and added cardio everyday with abs. Still my diet was the same like my normal diet.
WEEK 5,6, (May 17th-May 29th) - I forgot who that was but one of our trainers told me I should separate my work out. So I did two body part training. Ex. Shoulders and triceps; back and biceps; chest and shoulders, legs. Started about 40-50 min of morning cardio everyday. I knew what my weakness: shoulders and arms. So I did twice a week of shoulders and arms work out. My body fat was 15 %.
WEEK 7,8 (May 30st-June 10th) - Hardcore work out. I tried to do cardio twice a day. Morning and evening. Afternoon weight training. It was hard because I still had to work 10-5pm and had two summer classes. My diet? I had to say good-bye my favorite chocolate Ferraro Roche!! It was pretty big deal for me. And I tried super hard not to drink. Which means I still drank little bit... which is not allowed for those who compete. Body fat was 11.4% with 118 lbs.
WEEK 9,10 (June 11th-June23rd) - I went to Chile for almost two weeks and it was very harsh on my training because I couldn't eat right and couldn't work out regularly either. I had to try to eat whatever I could find and I still did cardio every morning while I was in Chile. I feel bad to tell you this but I cheated A LOT while I was in Chile. I ate ice cream and sandwich burger, and drank pisco sour and wine!!
WEEK 11,12 (June 24th) - Came back to the states and Crystal, one of my friends who also compete for figure, told me if I have a trainer and posing coach. Of course I didn't. She highly recommend me to have a trainer/posing coach so I did. I met with my trainer once a week and I followed his work out plan which is basically focus on one body part: legs, shoulder and arms, back, and chest. I also watched YouTube to learn more about bikini posing. I only thing that I changed for my diet was breakfast. I usually ate cereal in the morning but I changed to one grape fruit and 3 white eggs. It was good because I liked them ALOT!! Worked out three times a day. Morning cardio, afternoon weight training, and short evening cardio. July 8th my body fat was 10.3% with 118 lbs.
July 10th - My first competition and I got 4th in my class Bikini A. I was very nervous when we did pre-judging, but I had so much fun doing it. After the competition, I got the critique and the judge said I need to work on my presentation part. I have three weeks to work on for my next show in August 7th in Austin. I'm still doing the same workout and cardio. I know what I expect now and I will be so much better. You are all invited to come support me!!!
Forgot to mention it. After the competition, I and couple of my awesome friends who helped me out with the competition went to Chewy(?) Mexican restaurant and I also ate my favorite ice cream Blue Bell Mint Chocolate Ice Cream on Sunday! It was HEAVEN!!!
Forgot to mention it. After the competition, I and couple of my awesome friends who helped me out with the competition went to Chewy(?) Mexican restaurant and I also ate my favorite ice cream Blue Bell Mint Chocolate Ice Cream on Sunday! It was HEAVEN!!!
Minsoo's Behind the Story
How I Got into Fitness:
I never knew about fitness when I was in Korea. I started with jazz dance after I graduated from high school. After two years of dancing, I wanted to be a dancer, but I decided to come to the states to learn English instead.
After three months staying at the dorm, I gained 20 lbs. Holly cow!! It was crazy so I started going to the gym and working out. I started going to the group exercise classes and after my first semester at UTA, I became a group exercise instructor. That was the beginning of me meeting with Fitness. I did not know anything about fitness before, but as I started the job, I learned more about fitness and started falling in love with it.
Like I mentioned before, many Koreans do not know about being fit. Girls want to be skinny and do not want to gain any muscle on their body. Because I was exposed and now I know how fitness is important for us, I want to educate them. I want to change the culture that girls starve themselves and being skinny. I set my goal: Let them know that being fit and healthy is important. But how?
Why I Competing:
Changing the mind set or culture is not easy. Nobody won't listen to me what I say unless I am the "important person" whom people would pay attention what I say. So I guess I have to be famous then. Right? That's when I decided that I wanted to be a fitness model. If I do, people would at least pay attention what I say. However, to be a model is not easy. I have to sell my self and you know there are so many dirty little secret in those industries..
How I Started Competing:
When I realized that to be a model is super hard, some of my friends told me about the bodybuilding competition. I've never thought that I would be the type to go into bodybuilding, but I found that there was Bikini division and I started thinking about doing it. It was April 19th, 2010.
I will talk more about my training and my first competition at the next post. Thanks for reading my story!
I never knew about fitness when I was in Korea. I started with jazz dance after I graduated from high school. After two years of dancing, I wanted to be a dancer, but I decided to come to the states to learn English instead.
After three months staying at the dorm, I gained 20 lbs. Holly cow!! It was crazy so I started going to the gym and working out. I started going to the group exercise classes and after my first semester at UTA, I became a group exercise instructor. That was the beginning of me meeting with Fitness. I did not know anything about fitness before, but as I started the job, I learned more about fitness and started falling in love with it.
Like I mentioned before, many Koreans do not know about being fit. Girls want to be skinny and do not want to gain any muscle on their body. Because I was exposed and now I know how fitness is important for us, I want to educate them. I want to change the culture that girls starve themselves and being skinny. I set my goal: Let them know that being fit and healthy is important. But how?
Why I Competing:
Changing the mind set or culture is not easy. Nobody won't listen to me what I say unless I am the "important person" whom people would pay attention what I say. So I guess I have to be famous then. Right? That's when I decided that I wanted to be a fitness model. If I do, people would at least pay attention what I say. However, to be a model is not easy. I have to sell my self and you know there are so many dirty little secret in those industries..
How I Started Competing:
When I realized that to be a model is super hard, some of my friends told me about the bodybuilding competition. I've never thought that I would be the type to go into bodybuilding, but I found that there was Bikini division and I started thinking about doing it. It was April 19th, 2010.
I will talk more about my training and my first competition at the next post. Thanks for reading my story!
Things To Remember When You Are Training?
Some of points that I thought they were important while I was training.
Good luck with your training and please feel free to share your thoughts with me :)
- Don't starve your self.
- Eat what your BODY wants, NOT what YOU want.
- Love your exercise
- Enjoy your food
- Listen to your body
- Rest your body
- Feel you are alive and appreciate it
- Have FUN!
Good luck with your training and please feel free to share your thoughts with me :)
Friday, May 28, 2010
Fitness Quotes / Inspiration
"If I'd known I was going to live this long, I'd have taken better care of myself." - Eubie Blake (On his 100th Birthday)
"If you lose money you lose less; if you lose honor you lose half; if you lose health you lose all." - Unknown Korean
"Movement is a medicine for creating change in a person's physical, emotional, and mental states." - Carol Welch
"Those who do not find time for exercise will have to find time for illness." - Earl of Derby
" Exercise and recreation are as important as learning, perhaps more so, for without health, what is learning? " - Thomas Jefferson
Obstacles are those frightful things you see when you take your eyes off your goals." - Henry Ford
"Pain is weakness leaving the body." - Anonomous
"There are no limits. There are plateaus, but you must not stay there, you must go beyond them. A man must constantly exceed his level." - Bruse Lee
"It's not whether you get knocked down; it's whether you get up." - Vince Lombardi
"Life rewards action." - Phil. McGraw
"The greater the obstacle the more glory in overcoming in." - Confucius
"To strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield." - Alfred Lord Tennyson
"It is not the critic who counts, nor the man who points out how the strong man stumbled, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs and comes short again and again; who knows great enthusiasms, great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who, at the best, knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who, at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those timid souls who know neither victory nor defeat." - Theodore Roosevelt
"Failure is the opportunity to begin again more intelligently." - Henry Ford
"Never, never, never give up." - Winston Churchill
"When you get to the end of your rope, tie a knot and hang on." - Franklin D. Roosevelt
"I am only an average man but, by George, I work harder at it than the average man." - Teddy Roosevelt
"Bite off more than you can chew, then chew it." - Ella Williams
"Unless a man undertakes more than he possibly can do, he will never do all that he can." - Henry Drummond
"Twenty years from now you will be more disappionted by the things you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover." - Mark Twain
"Fortune favors the brave." - Publius Terence
"The greatest mistake you can make in life is to be continually fearing you will make one." - Elbert Hubbard
"If there is no struggle, there is no progress." - Frederick Douglass
"I never said it would be easy, I only said it would be worth it." - Author Unknown
"If we did the things we are capable of, we would astound ourselves." - Thomas Edison
"Do or do not. There is no try." - Yoda
"Character isn't inherited. One build it daily by the way one thinks and acts, thought by thought, action by action." - Helen Gahagan Douglas
"Start by doing what's necessary, then waht's possible, and suddenly you are doing the impossible." - Francis of Assisi
"If you lose money you lose less; if you lose honor you lose half; if you lose health you lose all." - Unknown Korean
"Movement is a medicine for creating change in a person's physical, emotional, and mental states." - Carol Welch
"Those who do not find time for exercise will have to find time for illness." - Earl of Derby
" Exercise and recreation are as important as learning, perhaps more so, for without health, what is learning? " - Thomas Jefferson
Obstacles are those frightful things you see when you take your eyes off your goals." - Henry Ford
"Pain is weakness leaving the body." - Anonomous
"There are no limits. There are plateaus, but you must not stay there, you must go beyond them. A man must constantly exceed his level." - Bruse Lee
"It's not whether you get knocked down; it's whether you get up." - Vince Lombardi
"Life rewards action." - Phil. McGraw
"The greater the obstacle the more glory in overcoming in." - Confucius
"To strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield." - Alfred Lord Tennyson
"It is not the critic who counts, nor the man who points out how the strong man stumbled, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs and comes short again and again; who knows great enthusiasms, great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who, at the best, knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who, at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those timid souls who know neither victory nor defeat." - Theodore Roosevelt
"Failure is the opportunity to begin again more intelligently." - Henry Ford
"Never, never, never give up." - Winston Churchill
"When you get to the end of your rope, tie a knot and hang on." - Franklin D. Roosevelt
"I am only an average man but, by George, I work harder at it than the average man." - Teddy Roosevelt
"Bite off more than you can chew, then chew it." - Ella Williams
"Unless a man undertakes more than he possibly can do, he will never do all that he can." - Henry Drummond
"Twenty years from now you will be more disappionted by the things you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover." - Mark Twain
"Fortune favors the brave." - Publius Terence
"The greatest mistake you can make in life is to be continually fearing you will make one." - Elbert Hubbard
"If there is no struggle, there is no progress." - Frederick Douglass
"I never said it would be easy, I only said it would be worth it." - Author Unknown
"If we did the things we are capable of, we would astound ourselves." - Thomas Edison
"Do or do not. There is no try." - Yoda
"Character isn't inherited. One build it daily by the way one thinks and acts, thought by thought, action by action." - Helen Gahagan Douglas
"Start by doing what's necessary, then waht's possible, and suddenly you are doing the impossible." - Francis of Assisi
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Was it Worth to Have?
Last Sunday, I finally made a huge mistake: I ate two big scoops of my favorite ice cream, Blue Bell Mint Chocolate Chip Ice cream.
Guess what happened? I had to pay for the consequence.. Monday morning, the first thing I did was doing cardio using StairMaster machine. (picture on the right)
What did I do? I climbed the stairs for 40 minutes with level 12. Is it easy? Try it. I finished with 5 miles and burned about 500 kcal.
Was my favorite ice cream worth to try? Heck yea :) But I won't do it again because I know better. I'm training for something very important to me and eating my favorite ice cream might make me happy for 5 minutes but it wouldn't last long. Staying fit requires discipline.
Here are few benefits of StairMaster workout:
- Increase your cardiovascular workout
- Burn calories
- Improve muscle conditioning in your legs and buttocks
- Improve balance
Sunday, May 23, 2010
Fun Fact - What People Would Think about You When You Go to Asia?
Many of you know who I am so it will be a pretty big shock to you if you've never heard this story from me. For those who don't know me, I am 25 year old female. I am 5'4 1/2'' and 120 lbs. My latest body fat reading was 15.9% and my BMI was 20%. Please don't get me wrong. I'm not trying to show off, but I just want to give you some idea of what I look like.
People here call me super tiny, which I've never heard before in Korea. Actually, I am considered "big" in Korea. I've never worn shorts becuase people make fun of my "huge" legs. However, here I have had lots of compliments about my legs. When I told this story to my friends, most of them refused to go to Korea because they would be considered FAT in Korea.
It is funny how beauty is defined differently by different cultures. Even here, many of college girls do not want to appear muscular, but being muscular is part of being fit. Fitness is about balance. Cardio, flexibility, and strength training work together. The stereotype of a body building appearance is associated with strength training, but this is not always true. Strength training is important because it helps build bone density, which is actually more important to women than man. Remember, testosterone is linked to muscular atrophy (large muscles), which is a hormone that is mostly found in men.
People here call me super tiny, which I've never heard before in Korea. Actually, I am considered "big" in Korea. I've never worn shorts becuase people make fun of my "huge" legs. However, here I have had lots of compliments about my legs. When I told this story to my friends, most of them refused to go to Korea because they would be considered FAT in Korea.
It is funny how beauty is defined differently by different cultures. Even here, many of college girls do not want to appear muscular, but being muscular is part of being fit. Fitness is about balance. Cardio, flexibility, and strength training work together. The stereotype of a body building appearance is associated with strength training, but this is not always true. Strength training is important because it helps build bone density, which is actually more important to women than man. Remember, testosterone is linked to muscular atrophy (large muscles), which is a hormone that is mostly found in men.
Vote For Minsoo
This is an Austin Fit Magazine Competition for the fittest people in the Austin area. Please vote for me!
Friday, May 21, 2010
The Reasons
What the Bible talks about Fitness:
1 Corinthians 6:9-20
"Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and that you are not your own? For you have been bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body."
1 Corinthians 9:24
" Do you now know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize."
Matthew 6:25
"...not to worry about everyday life - whether you ahve enough food and drink, or enough clothes to wear. Isn't life more than food and your body more than clothing?"
Ephesians 4:22-24
"You were taught, with regard to your former life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in the righteousness and holiness."
Our physical fitness is very important to our Lord becuase honoring God with our bodies is a call to take care of the Lord's "temples." As well as being in shape physically helps us spiritually. Fitness imporves quality of life, quality of health, and function. It's a proven fact that exercise reduces stress, if not eliminating it completely.
"Civilian affairs":
What the world pushes in our direction every day through TV shows, movies, the Internet, music, magazines, and advertisements - the "pleasurable" things. Is it the reason why we should work out? The answer is No. Proverbs 31:30 reminds us that "Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleetingl but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised." If we are to be praised for anything, it should be becuase we are godly women of good character.
-From Miss University, Anderson; Prince
What Do You Want:
I want to be healthy mentally, emotionally, and physically. And this is the reason why Fitness is very important to me. Furthermore, my fitness level is important to my family, my work, and my country.
1 Corinthians 6:9-20
"Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and that you are not your own? For you have been bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body."
1 Corinthians 9:24
" Do you now know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize."
Matthew 6:25
"...not to worry about everyday life - whether you ahve enough food and drink, or enough clothes to wear. Isn't life more than food and your body more than clothing?"
Ephesians 4:22-24
"You were taught, with regard to your former life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in the righteousness and holiness."
Our physical fitness is very important to our Lord becuase honoring God with our bodies is a call to take care of the Lord's "temples." As well as being in shape physically helps us spiritually. Fitness imporves quality of life, quality of health, and function. It's a proven fact that exercise reduces stress, if not eliminating it completely.
"Civilian affairs":
What the world pushes in our direction every day through TV shows, movies, the Internet, music, magazines, and advertisements - the "pleasurable" things. Is it the reason why we should work out? The answer is No. Proverbs 31:30 reminds us that "Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleetingl but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised." If we are to be praised for anything, it should be becuase we are godly women of good character.
-From Miss University, Anderson; Prince
What Do You Want:
I want to be healthy mentally, emotionally, and physically. And this is the reason why Fitness is very important to me. Furthermore, my fitness level is important to my family, my work, and my country.
Fitness Q/A - Answer your own!
Q. How do you stay in shape?
A. I eat enough calories to sustain my weight and promote muscle gain. Because I am very active, I try to get 2500-3000 calories a day. I stick to lean meats and vegetables, and try and watch my fat intake. I do cardio work out 30-40 minutes six times a week and weight training 40-50 minutes five times a week. I also take Yoga class three times a week for flexibility and strength.
Q. How do you stay motivated to work out?
A. It is great to look good but it's more than how I look. Exercise makes everything better. When I work out I have better days and my mood is better. I also know that exercise makes me stronger physically, emotionally, and mentally. Keep in mind with those benefits that I've mentioned, I can not resist working out.
Q. How do you find the time to exercise?
A. I plan my day around exercise. It is important so I schedule my work out like an appointment and treat it as a real appointment.
Q. What are your tricks for eating well?
A. Discipline. It is not hard, you know what is good and bad, and you have to make yourself stick to it. Allow some room for treats, but make sure they are rewards, not habits.
Q. How do you stay balanced/deal with stress?
A. Exercise is great stress reliever. Also, being involved in fitness has tough me discipline I can apply in all areas of my life. If you are motivated and awake, you can stay on top of things and avoid stress.
A. I eat enough calories to sustain my weight and promote muscle gain. Because I am very active, I try to get 2500-3000 calories a day. I stick to lean meats and vegetables, and try and watch my fat intake. I do cardio work out 30-40 minutes six times a week and weight training 40-50 minutes five times a week. I also take Yoga class three times a week for flexibility and strength.
Q. How do you stay motivated to work out?
A. It is great to look good but it's more than how I look. Exercise makes everything better. When I work out I have better days and my mood is better. I also know that exercise makes me stronger physically, emotionally, and mentally. Keep in mind with those benefits that I've mentioned, I can not resist working out.
Q. How do you find the time to exercise?
A. I plan my day around exercise. It is important so I schedule my work out like an appointment and treat it as a real appointment.
Q. What are your tricks for eating well?
A. Discipline. It is not hard, you know what is good and bad, and you have to make yourself stick to it. Allow some room for treats, but make sure they are rewards, not habits.
Q. How do you stay balanced/deal with stress?
A. Exercise is great stress reliever. Also, being involved in fitness has tough me discipline I can apply in all areas of my life. If you are motivated and awake, you can stay on top of things and avoid stress.
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