Athlete Name: Cyndi Mendez
Pro Division: Bikini
Where did you earn your Pro status?
2020 NFF Dallas Showdown
Where did you make your Pro debut?
2020 NFF Lone Star Muscle Mayhem
Tell us a little about yourself….
I started competing in NPC 4 years ago and realized I wanted to compete on a more even playing field with 100% natural competitors, which has been the best decision I’ve ever made! By day I am a Physical Therapist and Pilates Instructor. I was born and raised in Del Rio, TX and have lived in San Antonio for the past 20 years. When I’m not working out, I enjoy ballroom dancing, running on the trails and spending time with my favorite people and my yorkiepoo, Reese.
How did you get started with bodybuilding?
I went to a bodybuilding show several years ago to support a friend and saw all these women in beautiful bikinis with beautiful bodies that had just the perfect amount of muscle and softness. I left early so I didn’t get to see what they did but then a few years later, I saw a woman at the gym one day with the most gorgeous shoulders and asked her what she did. She said she was training for a bodybuilding competition. She recommended Muscle and Fitness Hers magazine for workouts and from that day on I was hooked.
Where does your motivation come from?
My motivation comes from my excessive need to be better than yesterday. I love setting goals, challenging myself and seeing it through to the end. It gives me a sense of accomplishment and it’s something that I can look back and say, “I achieved that”.
What are some of your greatest achievements?
Some of my greatest achievements include: being the first one in my family to attend college, earning my Doctorate degree in Physical Therapy and starting a non-profit organization for local students wanting to go to nursing school.
What is your current training philosophy?
Find something you enjoy doing and make a plan of action that works for you. Exercise should not feel like a chore. Being consistent in your efforts will lead to greater results. Do it for you – it’s an investment in yourself.
What are 3 tips you would give to someone trying to reach their goal physique?
- Do your research and find a reputable coach
- Make a plan of action and stick to it
- Stay consistent and be patient- if it were easy, everyone would do it
What is your diet like? And does it differ on-season v. off-season?
My body responds best to to a carb-cycling diet with higher carbs and a fat ratio. Off season, it it more balanced macros of predominately nutritious , whole foods with the 80/20 rule that allows for cheat meals imbedded throughout.
When trying to cut down what type of cardio do you do and why?
I love HIITs on the Stairmaster, it is a good time to catch up on my podcasts, reading and Netflix:) Its also good for booty building
What is your next goal?
Compete and get that first Pro win!
What’s your Favorite Quote?
“Persistence guarantees that results are inevitable. ”
Social Media:
IG: @mendezc2,
FB: @cyndi.mendez.96
