Background
Most of you might know me, I am a bodybuilder, bench-press specialists, bodybuilding/figure prep coach and fitness model. I train at High Peaks Barbell Club and of course Adirondack Barbell Club Home of the Metal Militia! Truly the Strongest benchers on Earth! Bill Crawford and Sebastian Burns are great people. They are all helpful, knowledgeable, and some of the strongest f#ckers I know. I have learned a ton since starting there and learn more each training session.
I have been a competitive bodybuilder for over a decade, and, over the years, I have been in someway or another part of the Bodybuilding community. My face and my name is either featured or as an author in all the popular bodybuilding magazines like MuscleMag International, Ironman, Muscular Development, FLEX, NPC News, Body's magazine (Italian publication), B&K Sport (Swedish Publication), Women's Physique World, Oxygen, Powerhouse magazine, Body Talk, Natural Bodybuilding & Fitness magazine, Great Lakes Fitness Guide, and many more.
This is what WPW has to say about me:
"Anita was a top level competitor, and one of the very strongest women, during the 1990's, and she was at her peak in 1995 when we had our photo/video session with her. Though this was intended to be an 'off-season' shooting, she was very lean and defined even at her higher weight, making it hard to believe she was not preparing for a contest! A great looking blonde with huge arms and lower body, and another woman bodybuilder 'who loved the camera'."
My first contest was a victory at the 1988 NPC Boulder B.B. championships. My biggest victory in the sport was winning the 1998 NPC Southern States Heavyweights and overall. The Southern States is one of the Top NPC regional shows here in the US. After winning the Southern States, I went on to post my best placing ever in an International show with a 3rd place in the heavyweights at the 98' IFBB North American. Then I decided to retire from the stage and train for sanctioned bench press meets. I have competed in the USPF, IPA and APF. But, I am coming out of retirement in 2008 for the NPC Masters Nationals! Holy Sh!t! www.anitaramsey.com
Here is a little more background on what you are getting. I am a published author. My work has appeared in Oxygen, Ironman magazine, MuscleMag International, NPC News, Body Talk (supplement industry magazine) and I'm the editor at Muscle Update as well as an article writer for Bodybuilding.com. I am also an IFPA Certified Sports Conditioning Specialist, IFPA Certified Master Personal Trainer, IFPA Certified Bodybuilding Instructor, FitOUR Certified Sports Nutritionist, SPARQ Nike Certified Trainer, and NESTA Certified Online PT and a club member of the United States Weightlifting Federation (USWF). I am co-state chair for the American Powerlifting Federation (APF) in New Mexico, as well as a co-promoter of the Halloween Monster Bench Bash www.monsterbenchbash.com.
She can be contacted at behind_the_iron@yahoo.com.
Vital Stats
- Years in Bodybuilding: Been competing for over 12 years as a NPC National level competitor, with most recent win 98' NPC Southern States Heavyweight & Overall, & 98' IFBB North American 3rd place heavyweight. 2008 NPC Masters Nationals 4th place light-heavies
- Favorite Body Parts: Back, legs and arms.
- Favorite Supplements: Higher Power, SPECIES, MG Development, Musashi, and Lebrada.
- Hobbies: Watching movies, football, and of course lifting weights.
- Favorite bodybuilders: Bev Francis
- Hair: Blond
- Eyes: Yellow
- Favorite food: Anything with cheese.
- Favorite junk food: My husband's Cream Cheese Brownies and Ben & Jerry Ice Cream.
- Favorite color: Black
- Height: 5'4"
- Weight: Off-season 155 Contest 135 plus
- Chest: 40
- Legs: 24 plus!
- Arms: 15.5 Pumped 16!
- Bench Press: 300 Competition bench (more too come)
- Squat: 315 for reps!
- Deadlift: 405
- Arm Curl: D.B.'s 55
- Single Arm D.B. Rows: 150 x 4
Pictures

Contest Achievement
- 1988 Boulder B.B. Championships (1st Middleweight)
- 1988 Rocky Mountain B.B. Championships (1st Heavyweight)
- 1989 NPC Colorado State (2nd Heavyweights)
- 1990 Western Cup B.B. Championships (1st Heavyweights & Overall)
- 1991 Jr. Nationals (6th place Heavyweights)
- 1992 Jr. USA (8th place Heavyweights)
- 1993 USA B.B. Championships (15th place)
- 1994 Orange County B.B. Championships (3rd place Middleweight)
- 1994 Steele Rose B.B. Championships (2nd place Heavyweights)
- 1995 NPC California State (5th place Heavyweights)
- 1995 Women's Pro Strength Extravaganza (Tied for 5th)
- 1996 New York Metropolitan (3rd Heavyweights)
- 1996 NPC New Jersey State (1st place Heavyweights)
- 1998 Southern States B.B. Championships (1st Heavyweights & Overall)
- 1998 IFBB North America B. B. Championships (3rd place Heavyweights)
I was awarded Lonnie Teper's "Come Back of the Year" Award in 1998.
- 2008 NPC Masters Nationals 4th place light-heavies
Bench Meets:
- 2003 IPA Halloween Bench Bash 1st place 148 sub-masters - 215#
- 2003 IPA RexRoads Memorial 1st place 148 sub-masters - 220#
Shoulder Surgery
- 2006 APF World Bench Wars 1st place 165 sub-masters - 260#
- 2007 APF Metal Militia Memorial 1st place 165 masters - 300#
Learn her secrets to achieving a beautiful body in a safe, efficient and effective manner. Anita specializes in Women's Body Shaping, Diet, Nutrition, Life Coaching, Exercise technique instruction, and Contest preparation for competitors. Anita has 20 years of exercise experience, over a decade of competition experience, and she is certified in many different organizations.
Anita has trained many bodybuilders and figure competitors who have placed very well both on the state and national level. She has a strong background in strength and conditioning for various sports. She was a volunteer strength coach at the University of New Mexico, and a scholarship athlete for the UNM Alpine Ski Team.
Websites:
Articles :: Sorted By Date
Alien Back - Build Your Back!
Mr. Olympia Lee Haney during his time had the widest pair of lats on stage. Then there was Lance Drewer, and Brian Bukcannon with his ultra small waist enlarging his lats even more.
Section: Training :: Dec 21, 2001
Two Headed Monster - A Blueprint For Erecting Enormous Arms
In gyms across the world, a large percentage of bodybuilders train biceps in hopes that it'll make their arms larger. They usually train biceps with everything available in their arsenal.
Section: Training :: Dec 21, 2001
What Is The MECCA Of Bodybuilding?
So, you say you want to be a bodybuilder huh? Have you been to the Mecca yet? For those who have, raise your hand, and raise your hand if you have been to Gold's or World's in Venice, California.
Section: Training :: Jan 02, 2002
20 Things To Bag For Fitness Competition
While standing backstage you notice the contestant doing her routine in front of you is wearing the same outfit as yours. You had this outfit made especially for your routine weeks before the competition.
Section: Contests :: Jan 08, 2002
2002 Arnold Fitness Weekend Preview!
This is the 14th edition of the Arnold Fitness Weekend. The world's best built bodies from bodybuilding and fitness will converge on Columbus, Ohio. The 2002 expo is expecting an anticipated attendance of around 60,000 and more then 600-exhibitor booths with some 9,500 athletes.
Section: Contests :: Feb 02, 2002
Marketing And Promotion 101
The material needed to score high is out there, but the prerequisites are getting harder and harder. You just have to learn where to look, be very patient, and most of all, persistent. Why? Well, the bodybuilding and fitness industry is very stingy with their money and who they give it to.
Section: Contests :: May 21, 2002
Contest Prep From A Veteran Competitor
With little prep, and no information to help me get ready, I did the 1988 NPC Boulder Bodybuilding Championships and I won the middleweights. Not too bad for not knowing anything. Since then I have been competing steadily in over a dozen shows and my contest prep has evolved over the years to become a very scientific process.
Section: Contests :: Jul 17, 2002
Stocking Stuffers And Holiday Gifts From Bodybuilding.com
'Tis the season to give, right? But, what do you give a loved one who's muscled? Be realistic now, what do you get someone who goes to the gym everyday, lifts heavy weight, owns stock in chicken farms, and poses all day?
Section: Nutrition :: Dec 05, 2002
Hardcore Home Gym
Start you own "Hardcore" gym. You can have your own place like those gyms of the 80's!
Section: Training :: Jan 09, 2003
Are You Ready For The Next Competitive Season?
Everyone needs a break and you've had yours. You've eaten perhaps more then you should have and possibly drank a little excess too this holiday season. Are you ready for the next competitive season?
Section: Contests :: Feb 19, 2003
Bodybuilding Advertising: Promoting Yourself!
Have you noticed lately the individuals writing to the magazines trying to get exposure? Some of the magazines are nice enough to give them a small clip but if you read the accompanying letters that these individuals write there is no wonder why I need to write this article...
Section: Contests :: Mar 03, 2003
Give Me Your Best Shot: Get In Shape By Boxing
You will exert more energy and release all the day's tension from on the job when your hitting that bag as hard as you can.
Section: Sports :: May 30, 2003
Women: You Don't Have To Get Bulky!
How can you tone up and not get bulky? Find out here!
Section: Training :: Jul 02, 2004
Benching For Records!
I am going to share with you my training and the moments that brought me up to the days of my first three bench press meets and my induction into sanctioned Bench Press only meets!
Section: Training :: Jul 12, 2004
My Shoulder Needs Fixing: The Long Road To Surgery!
At the time I started writing this I was 3 weeks out from shoulder surgery and what a road it has been. Find out what happened in my long road to surgery...
Section: Training :: Aug 03, 2004
Benching For Records: Part Two - Metal Militia Style.
I am going to share with you my training and the moments that brought me up to the days of my first three bench press meets and my induction into sanctioned Bench Press only meets!
Section: Training :: Sep 04, 2004
Benching For Records: Part Three - Metal Militia Family.
I am going to share with you my training and the moments that brought me up to the days of my first three bench press meets and my induction into sanctioned Bench Press only meets!
Section: Training :: Sep 04, 2004
Texas Titan: An Interview With Pro Bodybuilder Bonny Priest.
New IFBB pro and heavyweight and overall USA Champion has been hard at work at her gym in San Angelo, Texas getting ready for the 2005 season...
Section: Contests :: Jan 04, 2005
Competing For Bodybuilding: What You Need To Know To Begin!
Bodybuilding is at an all time high right now for men and women. It has never been more popular than now. I hope this guide can help you prepare properly so you can become a winner at your next show. So, let's get you ready for the stage.
Section: Contests :: Feb 09, 2005
An Interview With Michele Naylon: NPC Figure Champ, Mother And Artist!
When she is not spending time with her kids she teaches a group fitness strength training class. The interview will give us a good picture of who Michele Naylon really is. Find out what she has to say about herself and the fitness industry.
Section: Contests :: Jun 08, 2005
How Do I Get Started In Powerlifting?
Powerlifting training is a great way to build strength and physical power and add slabs of thick muscle to your physique. To get an idea about performing in powerlifting I have put together some useful information including judging the three main lifts.
Section: Training :: Jun 23, 2005
An Interview With Amber And Shiloe Steinmetz!
This is an interview with the team of Amber and Shiloe Steinmetz. See how they have succeeded over the years in competitions. They will answer questions about diet, pre-contest, traveling, crazy stories, etc. Get the scoop right here.
Section: Contests :: Sep 13, 2005
2005 Holiday Muscle Gifts!
Need some ideas this holiday season? Is your significant other a person who enjoys the gym and living a healthy lifestyle? Well look no further. We have compiled a list here of great gifts for those gym rats and fitness enthusiasts. Check it out!
Section: Nutrition :: Dec 13, 2005
A New Women's Bodybuilding Organization: New Hope? Or Just Another Mess?
If you had any questions about the life and survival of WPI then look no further. I had a chance to interview co-founder Tim Bonaparte to see how WPI was doing. Learn more...
Section: Contests :: Jan 25, 2006
Jennifer Hawkins - Bermuda Night Of Champions Figure Competitor!
Jennifer Hawkins has competed in the Bermuda Night Of Champions Figure Competition now for the last three years. Will she continue? Learn more about her right here in this great interview!
Section: Contests :: Feb 10, 2006
Training At The Compound: 'Back In The Saddle Again - Part One.'
Curtis and I are back in the saddle again. We are back with the boys at Metal Militia after a long layoff due to various reasons that were out of our control. Learn more about it right here.
Section: Sports :: Mar 17, 2006
An Interview With Top Fitness Coach And Camp Host, Cathy Savage!
When fitness competitions began Cathy immediately jumped right into it, and not long after other girls were asking her for help with their routines! Learn more about Cathy and Camp Savage right here.
Section: Contests :: Mar 27, 2006
Training At The Compound: 'Road To The Arnold - Part Two.'
Curtis and I have put together several weeks of benching with the Metal Militia. Feel the emotion and energy as we describe our painfully intense workouts while preparing for competition! Read on for more.
Section: Training :: Jun 29, 2006
Muscle Update: Exciting Bodybuilding News!
Check out Anita Ramsey's latest bodybuilding news, views, and gossip - now on BodySpace!
Section: Contests :: Oct 27, 2006
A Guide For Beginner's Contest Prep!
If bodybuilding competition is something you've been thinking about, then my advice is to use the directions provided in this article and make your competition goals a reality. Included are my own personal experiences, diet, schedule and more...
Section: Contests :: Jan 08, 2007
Bench Wars - Friday: The Day Before The Meet... Weigh-Ins!
Bench Wars at Fort William Henry Resort in Beautiful Lake George - See the steps Curtis and I went through to some amazing bench pressing competition. Check it out!
Section: Contests :: Jan 16, 2007
An Interview With Natural Pro Troy Johnson, ALR Industries Sales Director!
Troy was kind enough to spare some time for this great interview where he talks about his recent success at the Pro Universe and how he has become involved with ALRI. Learn more about this dedicated athlete right here!
Section: Contests :: Jan 29, 2008
Anita Ramsey's Muscle Update: Video Show Main Page.
In her new video series, Anita Ramsey announces that she's coming out of retirement and returning to the female bodybuilding stage. Watch her train and prepare for her first contest in a decade!
Section: Training :: Aug 19, 2008
Anita Ramsey's Muscle Update, Episode #1 - Coming Out Of Retirement!
In this first episode, Anita Ramsey announces that she's coming out of retirement and returning to the female bodybuilding stage. Watch her train and prepare for her first contest in a decade!
Section: Training :: Aug 19, 2008
Anita Ramsey's Muscle Update, Episode #2 - Contest Prep: 10 Weeks Out!
In this second episode, Anita Ramsey continues her contest prep and discusses her new training program and supplementation under the expert tutelage of Dave Palumbo!
Section: Training :: Oct 15, 2008
Essential Supplements For Men & Women!
Supplements are an essential part of gaining muscle, strength, size and even definition. I get asked so many times; 'what should I take?' Well, there are so many supplements to choose from, and so many manufacturers.
Section: Supplements :: Nov 03, 2008
Bodybuilding.com Presents: Great Holiday Gift Ideas!
Need some ideas this holiday season? Is your significant other a person who enjoys the gym and living a healthy lifestyle? Well look no further. We have compiled a list here of great gifts for those gym rats and fitness enthusiasts. Check it out!
Section: Nutrition :: Nov 12, 2008