Hello, who are you and what sports/fitness routine do you play?

Hi, my name is Victoria Tapp. I am a NASM certified personal trainer. I’ve always been active. I grew up playing tennis, basketball, track, cheerleading, volleyball, etc. Once in college and graduate school, my athletic life slowed down like most. I needed to find something to keep me active but that I also loved. That's where bodybuilding came into play!

How do you get ready to train for your sport/how do you train?

I train for my weight lifting sessions by first trying to get adequate rest! Nutrition is also a really big deal. I try to eat a hard breakfast full of protein and complex carbs to fuel my workouts. I'll take my vitamins and supplements too. Once in the gym ill warm up my muscles for around 7 min to help prevent injury. 

My workouts consist of heavy lifting and athletic functional training. I love a good balance.

After a workout/game, how do you recover your body? What do you do to get your body in shape? What type of diet do you eat? 

After an intense workout, I stretch my body out. It's the worst best feeling nothing like a good stretch. I always have my protein shaker bottle on hand. I try to consume a gram of protein per bodyweight for optimal muscle growth. I chug my protein shake and then eat another hardy meal full of protein, healthy fats, and carbs. 

If it's a cardio day( which it rarely is .. I hate cardio lol ), I'll hop on my stationary bike at home and gets on it for around 45 min to burn additional calories if fat loss is my primary goal. 

How do you prevent injuries when you’re training? What type of stretches do you normally do? What’s your routine looking like?

To prevent injury, I make sure that I'm stretching and activating certain muscles that I'll be using for that day's workout. Also, eating properly is key. If I do not have enough energy from my food, my workouts will suffer. I won't be able to lift as heavy in general fatigue. It's just not good when you're dealing with big weights.

I also do not ego lift. If something is too heavy, I will not risk myself of injury just to have bragging rights that lifted it. I believe in progressing slowly. Choosing a moderately heavyweight and over a few weeks going up in weights once that weight becomes easier. 

Because I work out a lot, I also now see a chiropractor to make sure everything is in alignment. A lot of us have imbalances just from day to day and seeing a doctor can really help with any issues you might have. I have flat feet so I was able to get insoles for my training shows which have helped me tremendously.

If there is someone wanting to get to your level, what type of advice would you give them?

I would definitely tell someone that's just starting now to keep going. Do not rely on motivation. Motivation is fleeting. Realize that this is not a quick thing but a lifelong journey. Trust every part of the process. Even on the days where it's hard to keep going. Do not worry with the person next to you is doing. Have tunnel vision. Also be kind to yourself. Don't just go into the same cold turkey but find out what works for you and what is sustainable for your lifestyle. The best diet is a diet that you will stick to. 

What works for somebody else may not work for you. Don't get discouraged, ask for help when needed and give it your all!

How do you structure your day now? What projects are you busy with?

These days, I am traveling around the world a lot. Due to that, I only do online training now. It is definitely a blessing to be in this digital age. I am able to obtain more clients and work with people from all around the world. It's so amazing to have a worldwide community . 

Also, I am currently pursuing fitness modeling which is another passion of mine.

How has your journey on social media been? Future plans?

My journey on social media has been a slow and steady one. I've been here for the past 10 years, but in the last five years have really gone to share my personal fitness journey which turned into me becoming a personal trainer and promoting my now business Fit with Vic.

I love the fact that I can connect with people from all around the world-iMessage and hopefully inspire them to get fit and healthy. I'm helping them realize that fitness has no one look. 

Right now, I am doing online personal training but I am planning on creating or downloadable fitness and nutrition guides that will be accessible online as well. 

Knowing what you know now, what do you wish you could tell yourself 10 years ago?

I will tell my younger self that the sky is the limit. Do not box yourself in. Keep going. The journey is long but it's so rewarding. You are amazing and you are surrounded by love and there's nothing you can do. You are a beast.

How can our audience find you online? 

IG: Vikkitoria.t 

Website: fitnesswithvic.com

Link to Victoria Tapp's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vikkitoria.t/

Victoria Tapp is a NASM certified personal trainer. She grew up playing tennis, basketball, track, cheerleading, volleyball, etc.

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