Welcome NPC Bikini Competitor, Carrie Sowdon, to the Competitor’s Spotlight!
Where do you train? Maryland
Weight On Season: 130-132
Weight Off Season: 136-140
Division(s) You Compete In: Bikini, Armed Forces
What got you started in health & fitness?
I’ve always been active, playing sports in school, etc. but after I had my son I wanted to do something to prove this mama could do anything she set her mind to. I wanted to be able to keep up with my son, and a good reflection of a strong, confident woman for my son to be around.
Our body image can suffer after we have kids, and our focus turns to them, but we often totally neglect ourselves and our own self care. Competing and prepping is my therapy, my time, my self care and my passion. I love pushing my mental, physical and emotional limits!
What prompted you to want to step on stage?
My son and my own desire to push limits.
Which show was your first show? How many times have you competed since then? Where?
The paradise cup in Oahu, HI – 2014.
I did 2 more in Hawaii 2015.
Since then we have Made a military move to the East Coast.
I competed in Maryland end of 2015 during the move across country.
2016 I competed 2 times.
2017 Max Muscle in April was my latest show.
So a total of 7 shows!
Are you going to compete again? If so, which shows are you targeting?
I’m aiming for the MaxMuscle In November possibly, depending on my job load. But I think I’ll be able to compete (I am now a full time counselor). We’re also looking into Jr National and National shows next year possibly.
What’s your favorite body part to train? What exercises?
Glutes/legs! I have a hard time growing them so I made it my mission to hit them 110% each time and really focus on that mind muscle connection. I currently love heavy leg presses and hip thrusters. I also enjoy delt work and triceps is my new other favorite.
What’s your LEAST favorite body part to train? What exercises?
Probably back just because you can’t really see it! But I make sure to train it and incorporate rowing 2-3x week.
Do you have a consistent playlist for when you’re working out? Any favorites to get you motivated?
I’m all over the place! Lady Gaga to In This Moment, Volbeat, etc. depending on my mood or what I’m doing I may even do soundtracks or alternative.
Favorite cheat meal? Go to food?
Pancakes, I make amazing protein pancakes with some insane macros. I have recipes on @rsprecipes .
Favorite clean eating meal? Recipe?
Egg whites! I could eat them for rest of my life 3-4x day and be happy! So good! And so versatile!
Do you have a strong support network in place?
Absolutely. My husband is my rock and he inspires me daily. And of course my son, he really made me wake up on a lot of things and want to pursue my goals. He makes me slow down too though and look at the sky or the birds and I remember how wonderful the world is in a child’s eyes.
What do you do for a living? How does your training and nutrition work around that?
I’m a full time counselor, so I’m usually up at 4am, gym, shower, head right into work. Come home, prep any small meals needed and repeat that all week. I prep big meals for myself and my family Sundays. Crockpots are my best friends.
How can people connect with you?
Instagram: @insane_girl24 @rsprecipes
Any addition information you’d like to share?
Nothing is impossible!