Interview With Fitness Model – Krisztina Negyesi

Can you briefly tell us about yourself (where you were born, profession, education, where you live, etc.)?

I currently live in New Rochelle, NY, but I’m originally from Hungary. I moved to the USA 10 years ago as an au pair, with the purpose of learning English and hopefully to get a better job after my yearlong commitment ended. Plans changed and I decided to further my education and attend college. I received my Associate in Science degree in Business Administration from Westchester Community College. My hard work and dedication paid off and I received a full-tuition business scholarship to IONA College, allowing me to earn my Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Finance and International Business. After graduation I asked myself: “Why stop now?” so I stayed an extra year and received my Masters of Business Administration in Marketing Sports and Entertainment Management Certificate.

I presently work for Conair Corporation as a show and education manager and also work in a restaurant 4 days a week.

When did you first find interest in the fitness industry? What and/or who inspired your decision to go into fitness modeling and compete?

After coming to the USA I went from 120lbs to 160lbs in a matter of 3 months. I blamed the dryer for shrinking my clothes. I wasn’t happy about my weight gain and wanted to get back to the “old me”. I signed up to a gym and changed my eating habits. I dropped some weight but I knew I needed help, so I hired a trainer who helped keep me on track. After training with him for a while and seeing good results, he recommended that I look into competing. I did some research and attended NPC shows. The feeling I had as a spectator was amazing and I was inspired. I knew I wanted to do a bikini competition. It’s never really been about the trophy or the chance of going PRO (though that would be great!) For me, it’s more about the challenge of seeing what I’m capable of accomplishing.

You competed in the 2013 NPC Eastern USA Championships. Can you tell us more about the competition and how it has been as a NPC Bikini Competitor?

Getting ready for a competition is not easy. It requires lots of discipline and hard work. Having two jobs and going to the gym every day is a challenge, but I love every second of it. NPC Eastern USA Championship was my very first show. It was a great experience. Even though I didn’t place top 5, I walked away with many new friendships and an even greater desire to challenge myself. I consider this show my stepping-stone for many competitions to come.

You have posted photos on Instagram representing being a part of Team Edge. How has it been like surrounding yourself with other female fitness competitors? Have you learned anything from them?

Just a couple of weeks before my first competition, I made a last minute decision and joined Team Edge. Ingrid Romero & Joe Discuillo, founders of Team Edge were beyond amazing getting me thru my first competition. The support from all the other girls is priceless. It’s like being a part of a sorority. We push and inspire each other every day to work harder. I can’t imagine not having a team.

Besides having Team Edge as supporters, where do you get your motivation from to stay consistent and continue to strive in your fitness career?

My trip to the FMI Conference was an eye opening experience. I was surrounded by people with the same passion I have. So many talented people who were eager to learn from the best in the industry. I also have my role models to motivate me every day: Ashley Horner and Chady Dunmore. Two amazing women whose success shows you anything is possible.

As a fitness model and competitor, we’re curious, what does your weekly diet comprise of? Do you avoid anything in your diet? Do you give yourself “cheat days”?

During my prep I am very strict, no “cheat days”. My meal plan changes depending on how I look. I always prep my food for the whole week, this way I’m ready and on track. My meal plan is never boring. My coaches are always making sure I consume the proper amounts of macronutrients. I get my protein from chicken, salmon, ground turkey, fish with a mix of carbs from oatmeal, asparagus, bananas, sweet potatoes, rice, spinach etc. If I’m not prepping for a competition I do try to follow a healthy diet, but I don’t have any restrictions. Everything is ok in limitations.

What’s your training routine? What specific program do you follow? (Please include a few details – training split, sets/reps, exercises, types of cardio, etc.)

During competition prep, my workout is tailored to my body by my coach, Joe Discuillo.
When not in prep mode I train 5-6 days a week.

Monday: chest/back/abs
Tuesday: glutes/plyos
Wednesday: shoulders/arms/abs
Thursday: legs/plyos
Friday: OFF
Saturday: upper body circuit/abs
Sunday: legs

My workout mostly includes super sets, where I mix 2 exercises and perform them back-to-back with little or no rest in between.
For cardio I usually choose the stairmaster or do 20mins HIIT workouts on the treadmill: on an incline of 11, try to sprint for 15 seconds (I’m up to speed 9.5!) then rest for 30 seconds. Repeat it 20 times. This will get you sweaty for sure!

In addition to your diet and training, do you believe in supplements? If so, which kinds do you use, what results have these given you, and do you recommend them?

I love all FitMiss products by MusclePharm, which are designed specifically for women with active lifestyles. My favorite pre-workout drink is Optimum Nutrition’s Watermelon flavored Amino Energy. I love the energy boost I get from it and it tastes like jolly rancher!

You are a user and supporter of NeriumAD Age-Defying Treatment cream. Can you tell us more about that?

I always had dry skin and struggled with eczema, which got worst during the wintertime. My skin is also very sensitive, so I had a hard time finding cream that worked well for my skin type. My coworker recommended I try NeriumAD, a face cream made from all natural products. After just 2 weeks of using it the dry spots on my cheeks disappeared. Since then NeriumAD is the only face cream I use and I highly recommend it to anyone regardless of age or skin type. Did I mention it helps to reduce wrinkles?

You have attended a FMI Conference. How was your experience, what were 3 important factors you took away from it, and would you go again?

I had an amazing time at the FMI Conference and I can’t wait for the next event in 2014. If you are passionate about fitness, it is the best conference you can attend. Guest speakers are there to inspire and guide you on your journey. I traveled all the way from the East coast to Long Beach, CA hoping to find some new opportunities. I got more than I wanted… If I would have to choose 3 factors it would be friendships, networking and knowledge.

Do you think fitness models should be considered as part of today’s role models?

Absolutely. Most of the time people are afraid to talk about their weight & health issues. It is important to have someone with a positive and healthy lifestyle to inspire you to take that first step and change yours for the better.

What are your plans and goals for the future? Do you have any future competitions in the works?

I’m studying to become a certified personal trainer and also a specialist in fitness nutrition. It’s a work in progress and I know it takes time, but I’m willing to put in the work for something I’m passionate about. As for competitions, I’m currently prepping for the Legends Classic show in Las Vegas on February 1st.

Any shout outs?

First of all I’d like to thank my family and friends for believing in me and supporting me on my journey. My former trainer, Chris Cato for motivating me from the beginning and reminding me constantly “quitting is not an option”. Last, but not least, I want to thank to my coaches Ingrid Romero & Joe Discuillo for their constant support and guidance.

Lastly, where can we find you on the Internet?

You can follow me on Instagram (@krisztinanegyesi) and on Facebook