Katie Meloche took 1st place in Bikini Open, 1st in Bikini Novice A, and 1st in Bikini True Novice A at the 2017 NPC Max Muscle VA Classic. And, it was her first time ever on a Bodybuilding stage!
Where do you train?: Gold’s Gym Clocktower
Weight On Season: 118 on stage
Weight Off Season: 141 before (first prep ever), 128-130 post show
Association(s): NPC
What got you started in health and fitness?
I played sports from a young age and generally ate healthy. After college when I stopped playing tennis competitively I became very out of shape and then found my way back to the gym. That’s where I got serious about lifting and eating clean.
What prompted you to want to step on stage?
I wanted to take my transformation to the next level. Not just physically. The stage was the farthest thing outside of my comfort zone I could think of. Growth and comfort cannot co-exist.
Which show was your first show? How many times have you competed since then?
Max Muscle April 2017. I haven’t competed since but will be fall of 2017.
Are you going to compete again? Have you already decided on a show or shows?
Yes! Max Muscle in November and Miami – nationals the week after.
What’s your favorite body part to train & what exercises? Least favorite & what exercises?
Legs and back are my favorite. Heavy leg press and extensions are my favorite as well as lat pull-downs and low rows. I would say my least favorite day is probably arms but definitely an area I’m looking to improve. Bench dips are killer! I really have to force myself to suck it up and get through them all.
Do you have a consistent playlist for when you’re working out?
I don’t! During prep I just went for whatever I was feeling that day..whatever could help me get in the zone and keep pushing myself. That could mean beast mode zone or relax my mind and get to work zone. Sometimes it was Frank SInatra during my 40 minutes on the stair master. Other times, country and classic rock, etc.
Favorite cheat meal?
Burger with fried egg, avocado and bacon with sweet potato fries.
Favorite clean meal recipe?
I keep it simple and don’t really make any recipes. A yum non-prep/pretty clean breakfast meal would be sweet potatoes cubed and made into a hash in my cast iron skillet with sauteed peppers/veggies with turkey bacon, black beans, and drop in a couple of fried eggs or egg whites.
Do you have a strong support network for your training and nutrition planning?
Yes, I work with a great team and a posing coach! Outside of the team, my family and friends are very supportive even though they might not all understand competing.
What do you do for a living? How does your training and nutrition work around that?
I am a Technical Sales Specialist for IBM. I’m either working from home or on a plane heading to a client site. It isn’t easy but I committed to doing prep and didn’t let myself make any excuses. During my 16 week prep I went to Vegas twice for work (a week each time) and other 2-3 day trips throughout…including two days during peak week! It can be done!!! Trust me.
How can people connect with you?
Send me a message on facebook/IG or email me at kameloche1@gmail.com. I’m happy to assist in any way 🙂