source : www.greatestphysiques.com
SHANNAH BAKER
Shannah Barker first entered the gym in order to sculpt her dream physique for her wedding day. But she’d soon developed an incredible physique and realized her potential in the fitness industry.
Since then, Shannah’s earned Pro Cards in two different federations and become an inspiration to countless fans around the world.
This is her story: (Continues on page 2…)
“Remember, you always have the power to change your path”
Athlete Statistics
Full Name: Shannah Baker
Weight: 135 - 145lbs (61.2 - 65.8kg)
Height: 5'5" (165cm)
Year of Birth: 1990
Nationality: Australian
Profession: Bikini Athlete, Fitness Model
“I’ve been extremely lucky as I was chosen to compete in Las Vegas where I earnt my pro card!”
Accomplishments
- 2014 ANB Asia Pacific Fitness Model Championship, 1st
- 2014 Fitness America Weekend, Bikini, 1st (Fitness Universe Pro Card)
- 2015 Fitness Universe Miami, 2nd
- 2016 IFBB Queensland competition, 1st (IFBB Pro Card)
“I first got into fitness in the lead up to my wedding!
Before I knew it, what was an occasional visit to the gym for cardio & light weights turned into a 12 week comp prep. I’ve never looked back!”
Biography
Early Years
Born in Mandurah, Australia, Shannah had always been into sports as a child. She took part in basketball, horse riding and swimming, growing up naturally lean.
However, it was during the lead-up to her wedding that she decided to get fit and healthy. Shannah found the desire to sculpt her dream physique for the best day of her life.
In 2012, at the age of 22, Shannah entered the gym, embarking on her fitness journey.
“Some people track their progress through a macro counting diet. Other people don’t count at all.
It’s about balance, finding out what your body responds to and what works best for you!”
Fitness Journey
It wasn’t long before Shannah made serious progress and fell in love with the gym. By 2013, Shannah was on the way to developing a formidable figure – a personal trainer at her gym noticed her potential and encouraged Shannah to enter a fitness competition.
Initially, the Australian’s response was: “No way! I love food too much!”. But she soon realized that she would consume more food than she’d ever done by following a diet plan.
Over the next year, Shannah trained rigorously, preparing to step on stage.
“Seeing the results and the feeling of being fit and healthy becomes an addiction in itself. When you feel good, you want that constant high – therefore you keep up your training and clean eating!”
First Competition
After a year of intense workouts and dieting, by the age of 23, Shannah had sculpted an incredible physique. After her wedding, she finally decided to enter her first competition – the 2014 ANB Asia Pacific Fitness Model Championship.
Shannah beat all expectations and managed to place 1st in her debut show. This motivated her to pursue a career in fitness, and she set her sights on winning more trophies.
“Knowing my husband, family and friends were in the audience watching me win the competition was such a joyful feeling!”
Life as a Pro
Riding high from her victory, Shannah stepped up her game and prepared to compete as a pro. After a year of further developing her physique, she was ready for her comeback.
In 2015, Shannah stepped on stage at the Fitness Universe Miami show. Although she didn’t win, she placed a close second in her first professional competition.
Switch to IFBB
After her experience as a Fitness Universe Pro, Shannah made a massive decision to switch federations and compete as an IFBB athlete.
Amazingly, Shannah placed 1st in her first competition as an IFBB athlete. She’d continued her quick rise to the top of the industry by earning her IFBB Pro Card in the process.
“I most proud of the person I have become. I am from a small town in Western Australia, grew up with my grandma & always knew life wasn’t going to come handed to me on a silver platter”
Idols and Influences
Shannah’s family and friends have always motivated her to succeed since she embarked on her fitness journey.
However, she names numerous athletes that she looks up to, who have helped her realize her ambitions:
- Fernanda D’Avila
- Paige Hathaway
- Ana Delia
- Ashley Kaltwasser
- Michelle Lewin
- Anllela Sagra
- Janet Layug
- Erin Stern
- Alice Matos
- Larissa Reis
- Marina Krause
“I like to think I am set apart from the rest because I am very ‘real’. What you see is what you get, and I just always try to be relatable with people”
What we can learn from Shannah Baker
Shannah has taught us that you should always make the most of everything and see where it takes you. She began weighttraining after desiring to get fit for her wedding, but went on to become an IFBB Pro bikini athlete.
Always aim high, work hard to achieve them and you’ll find success eventually.
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