Fitness Amateur Of The Week: Siliana Sizzles On Stage!

How did your fitness journey begin?

After the birth of my son, I decided to get in shape. I gained a normal amount of weight during pregnancy (40 pounds), but it was bothersome to be considered skinny fat. I decided to take it seriously and hired a personal trainer who made me lift heavy weights. When I saw the results, I was hooked.

I decided to compete in my first NPC show, The Branch Warren Classic, in July 2011. I kicked into high gear, placed second in my class, and loved the high I got on stage. Then I entered the Dallas Europa 2011 and won overall bikini.

After my win, I went to the North American Championships in Cleveland, Ohio, and placed third. I returned home, won the overall at the Texas State, and was crowned Miss Texas Bikini 2011. My second pro card attempt was at Team Universe where I placed fourth. I entered the Texas State again in 2012, defended my title, and was crowned Miss Texas Bikini.

"I listen to my body and evaluate myself daily. I constantly switch it up so my body doesn't get stagnant."

How did your passion for fitness emerge?

My father wanted my two siblings and me to be professional tennis players, so we were active at a young age. My true passion for fitness didn't come until I started busting my butt in the gym to make real gains. When I realized I was pretty strong for my size, I enjoyed the gym and liked to see what I was capable of.

What/Who motivates you to live a healthy lifestyle?

My son motivates me to be the best I can be. I go to him for motivation to be better and look within myself. There's no better place to find strength and motivation than within yourself.

Where did you go for inspiration?

I don't know how to quit. I was raised to never give up. On days when I felt like I didn't want to keep going, I thought about my competition and it instantly motivated me to work harder than my competitors.

What are your future fitness plans?

I started my own clothing line "Beauty Is A Beast" for women. It's empowering clothing for women to wear in the gym or during everyday life. Along with the clothing line, I'm stepping behind the stage to help girls prep for shows with posing, nutrition, dieting, and training. All of this will be available on my website. The launch date is soon. Anyone interested can check my Twitter, Instagram, or Facebook for exact details.

What is the most important fitness tip?

Do what others won't today, so that you can do what others can't tomorrow.

Who is your favorite fitness competitor?

My Team Optimum teammate, Jessica Paxson, is an awesome inspiration. I go to her for lots of advice.

How did Bodybuilding.com help you reach your goals?

I looked at photos from past competitions to see what the girls looked like, what each show expected, etc. I spent hours browsing BodySpace to see how others overcame their struggles and stayed on track. I found great help and advice on the forums.

Siliana's Top 5 Gym Tracks

"F***in' Problems" by ASAP Rocky
"I'm a D-Boy" by Lil Wayne
"Strange Clouds" by B.o.B. ft Lil Wayne
"You Be Killin' 'Em" by Fabolous
"Trapster" by Young Jeezy

Competition History

2011 Branch Warren - 2nd Place
2011 Dallas Europa Supershow - 1st Overall
2011 IFBB North Americans - 3rd Place
2011 Texas State Championships - 1st Overall
2012 Team Universe - 4th Place
2012 Texas State Championships - 1st Overall
2012 NPC Nationals Atlanta - DNP
2013 NPC Jr USA's - 5th Place
2013 NPC Jr Nationals - DNP