Vicky Moutopoulou | Your Body is a Work of Art
What got you into bodybuilding?
I have always been the athletic type since as long as I remember. I did gymnastics for many years, as well as volleyball, basketball and track. Around the age of 20 I decided to go to the gym and start lifting heavy weights. I found it very challenging to be honest. I loved how you could build your body into a work of art. I was relieving stress and was feeling great. From the age of 20 until now never stopped.
How do you find time to balance work, the gym and food prep?
My job at the moment is in the gym. Since I'm in prep I wake up every morning and fix my meals, do basic housework, and then from 2 until 9 I am in the gym. I have some personal trainers, and in between I do training on my own. It's not easy, but if you have a program it's easier.
What is an overview of your training?
At the moment I workout about 5 times a week. I do cardio three times for about a half an hour. My competition is in September, so I don't focus too much on cardio.
What has been the highlight of your journey, and what are your goals?
I was placed in Arnold Classics top 6. I came first in the Cyprus Grand Prix. My goal is to get my pro card, and to compete with the best of the best. That is the goal.
What is your favorite muscle to workout, and why?
The most challenging for me is the leg workout, because it's difficult for me. I've hard problems with my knee and back. I need to improve this so I try to like it also. My best body part is my back and my abs.
What is the number one philosophy you live by?
Be yourself, be happy, stay strong and stay focused.
Who is your favorite female competitor?
My favorite competitor is Corey Everson, I love her.
What are the contents of your fridge?
Meat, beef, vegetables, eggs, and space for food for my husband. I also have yogout when I can eat it.
What advice would you give women starting out in the gym?
Women are afraid of the word 'bodybuilding'. They are afraid they will lose their feminine side, and look like men. It takes time to start, be organized with your meals. Don't be afraid, you will not like a man.
What are your hobbies outside of the gym?
Other than gym stuff, I spend time with my two rottweilers. They have a lot of energy so I spend a lot of time with them. I love to play with my nephews, and see my family. When I am in prep, I don't really have much time for much.
What was an obstacle you had to overcome, and how did you do it?
I had a serious problem with my back and my knees. I had to rest for three months, and I had a lot of physio. When I started lifting heavy again, I had to start from the beginning again.