FIT MODEL INTERVIEW W/ IFBB PRO REGINA PEREZ & LAUREN LOVATO
Watch the full video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I5VnR_Q0Tzo
The world of competitive bodybuilding is constantly evolving, and one of the most exciting developments in recent years is the introduction of the Fit Model division. For many athletes who have spent years in the Bikini category, this new division offers a fresh perspective, a different aesthetic, and a sustainable path for longevity in the sport. In a recent "behind the scenes" interview, Regina Perez Fitness, a natural IFBB Fit Model Pro, sat down with Lauren Lavato, a rising star making her professional debut, to discuss the transition, the mindset required for success, and what it really takes to navigate a pro-level prep.
Lauren Lavato, hailing from Albuquerque, New Mexico, is not just a competitor; she is a real estate professional and a coach who has successfully balanced a demanding career with the rigors of elite-level fitness. Her journey to becoming an NPC/IFBB Fit Model Pro provides a roadmap for anyone looking to find their place in this rapidly growing category.
The Shift from Bikini to Fit Model: Finding the Right FitFor many years, the Bikini division was the primary destination for women looking for a feminine yet muscular stage presence. However, as the division evolved, the requirements for muscle mass and conditioning increased significantly. For Lauren, the introduction of the Fit Model division in late 2023 and early 2024 felt like a "leap of faith" that perfectly aligned with her current physique and long-term goals."I was already working towards Bikini at that time," Lauren explains. "But when Fit Model came out, I just had this feeling that it was for me. I love competing, but I didn't know if I wanted the longevity of where Bikini was going. Fit Model fits my physique so much more right now."This sentiment is shared by many in the community. The Fit Model division emphasizes a balanced, athletic look that highlights elegance and poise as much as muscle tone.
For athletes who want to maintain a certain look without pushing for the extreme muscularity now seen in top-tier Bikini, Fit Model provides a perfect alternative.Why Longevity Matters In the world of fitness, longevity is often overlooked in favor of immediate results. However, both Regina and Lauren emphasize that choosing a division that suits your natural frame and metabolism is key to staying in the sport for years to come. By moving to Fit Model, athletes can focus on a "fine balance" of conditioning rather than the "harder" look often required in other categories.
Navigating the Path to the Pro Stage Lauren’s path to her pro card was a masterclass in trusting the process. After transitioning from the NPC Legion Sports Fest, her first-ever NPC competition. This show served as a pivotal moment, not just because of the win, but because of the atmosphere of the event itself."Legion was probably the best show I’ve ever done because it’s a sports fest," Lauren says. "In between pre-judging and finals, you can go watch all the other sports. It keeps you engaged and takes the pressure off."After finding success at the regional level, Lauren moved on to Junior Nationals in June, where she secured her pro status. Her advice for those eyeing the national stage is simple: Don't be married to a specific show date. Instead, let your body tell you when it’s ready. With NPC shows happening almost every week, there is no reason to "kill yourself" to make a single deadline if your physique isn't quite there yet.
Mastering the Mental Game: Staying Calm Backstage One of the most striking aspects of Lauren’s journey is the "overwhelming sense of peace" she felt during her national-level prep. While many athletes struggle with jitters and anxiety, Lauren focused on a specific mental strategy to stay grounded.
Overcoming ComparisonBackstage at a major competition can be a high-pressure environment. It is easy to start looking at other athletes and questioning your own progress. Lauren’s philosophy is clear: Comparison is the thief of joy.
Focus on Your Own Package: Your only real competition is the version of yourself that stepped on stage at the last show.Avoid "Psyching Yourself Out": Looking at other competitors' bodies only creates unnecessary anxiety.Maintain a Joyful Heart: Approaching the day with gratitude ensures that regardless of the outcome, the experience remains positive.
Backstage Rituals for SuccessTo maintain her focus, Lauren utilizes a technique, in the best way possible. She sticks close to her coach, finds a quiet place to lie down, and repeats words of affirmation. "I tell myself: You’ve done this a million times. You’ve put the work in. You know how many reps it took to get here. You have nothing to worry about."
The Importance of Judge FeedbackAs the Fit Model division grows, the criteria continue to be refined. Regina and Lauren both highlight a major improvement in the way feedback is delivered. In the past, athletes often had to wait for email responses that might never come. Now, judges are increasingly providing immediate, actionable feedback right after the show.Key Insights on Feedback:Identify Specific Improvements: Whether it’s posing, conditioning, or suit choice, knowing exactly what the judges want is the fastest way to improve.Implement Changes Quickly: Lauren and Regina discuss the value of taking that feedback and applying it to the very next show to see immediate results.
Stay Professional: Approaching judges with a willingness to learn, rather than defensiveness, builds a positive reputation within the league.
Peak Week Realities: Balancing Life and PrepFor a pro debut, the stakes are higher, but the "Peak Week" process often becomes more about execution and autopilot than stress. For Lauren, her pro debut prep involved managing her career as a real estate agent and a coach while checking off the logistical boxes of a pro athlete.The "Autopilot" PhaseBy the time peak week arrives, the hard work in the gym is done. The focus shifts to:Dialing in Nutrition and Water: Precise adjustments to ensure the muscles look full and the skin looks tight.Self-Care Appointments: Facials, bodywork, and nails are not just about vanity; they are part of the "pro package" and help the athlete feel their best.Managing External Stress: Lauren notes that her biggest challenge wasn't the diet, but managing real estate clients and showing houses right up until she left for the show.
Financial and Personal ConsiderationsChoosing which pro show to enter is a major decision. While international shows like those in Japan are tempting, Lauren and her coach decided on a U.S.-based show for her debut to manage the financial costs and physical toll of long-distance travel. This allowed her to stay focused on her upcoming wedding and her professional life without the added stress of a 12-hour flight and extreme jet lag.Key Takeaways for Aspiring Fit ModelsIf you are considering making the jump to the Fit Model division or are preparing for your first national show, keep these insights in mind:Trust Your Coach: Let your coach handle the scheduling and the "when" so you can focus on the "how."Mindset is Everything: Practice affirmations and stay in your own zone backstage. Do not let the presence of other athletes dictate your confidence.Prioritize Longevity: Choose the division that fits your body now, rather than forcing your body into a mold that isn't sustainable.Be a Professional: From your stage presence to how you handle feedback, carry yourself like a pro long before you actually earn the card.
Conclusion: The journey to the pro stage is rarely a straight line. It requires pivots, leaps of faith, and an unwavering commitment to self-improvement. As Lauren Lavato demonstrates, success in the Fit Model division is about more than just a physical package; it’s about the mental resilience to stay calm under pressure and the wisdom to enjoy the process.Whether you are a seasoned Bikini competitor looking for a new challenge or a newcomer to the NPC, the Fit Model division offers a unique opportunity to showcase an athletic, elegant physique. By focusing on your own growth, seeking direct feedback, and maintaining an "attitude of gratitude," you can navigate the path to the pro stage with the same peace and confidence that Lauren brings to her debut.
Watch the full video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I5VnR_Q0Tzo