CONFESSIONS OF AN IFBB BIKINI PRO

Last month, Musclecontest Philippines held its National and Pro-League qualifier at Novotel Manila in Araneta City. Two Filipina athletes earned their IFBB Pro Cards: Katherine Hartvigsen in Wellness and Sheen Marie Torres in Women's Bikini.

- MYLENE MENDOZA-DAYRIT

At the event, US-based Filipina IFBB Pro Bikini athlete Jennifer Lau flew in to inspire participants. A mother, Navy veteran, business owner, stylist, and accountability coach, Jennifer shared how bodybuilding transformed her life.

Jennifer began competing in 2022, earning her Pro Card in 2023 at the Master's Collegiate in Pittsburgh after two earlier attempts. She placed third at the Charlotte Pro Master show soon after turning Pro.

THE PHILIPPINE STAR: How did you get into bodybuilding?

JENNIFER LAU: I ran my own business, worked nine to ten hours daily, and was a soccer mom. I took my kid to soccer four days a week, then soccer games on weekends. That was my life, and my son is 18 years old now.

I really just didn't focus on anything but my business and my son. When my 18-year-old son started driving, I focused on fitness. Meeting an amazing coach, a great guy, and a supportive community changed my life. What started as three days of training became four, and eventually, my coach encouraged me to compete.

On a 20-week prep, I lost nearly 30 pounds and did my first show. My second show, a national one, earned me first place but no Pro Card. I didn't even know what a Pro Card was back then!

What motivated you to continue?