Athlete Name: Dr. Maria R. Tello

Pro Division: Bikini

Where did you earn your Pro status?

NFF Muscle Mayhem in Bastrop

Where do you plan to make your Pro debut?

NFF Super Show 2021

Tell us a little about yourself….

I’m an associate professor at South Texas College in McAllen with 26 years experience. Bodybuilding is my platform to inspire others to keep striving in all areas of life. I’m the proud Mom of Evan, my 12 year old kind-hearted son and the loving wife to my husband Al who’s the love of my life.

How did you get started with bodybuilding?

I hired Frank Rodriguez as my trainer, and he insisted that I had what it took to compete. This went on for 6 years until I gave in.

Where does your motivation come from?

It’s an inner drive to always challenge myself to be the best I can be along with a strong desire to show my son that a strong work ethic is crucial in life.

What are some of your greatest achievements?

2009 birth of my son Evan

2011 earned my doctorate degree

2019 earned my bodybuilding pro card

What is your current training philosophy?

Dig deep and show up

What are 3 tips you would give to someone trying to reach their goal physique?

Hire a knowledgeable trainer

Surround yourself with people who encourage you

Meal prep so you always have your food ready

What is your diet like? And does it differ on-season v. off-season?

Off season I track macros and I have 2 cheat meals per week

On season I follow a meal plan set by my comp coach Jason Martinez

When trying to cut down what type of cardio do you do and why?

I walk at an incline and I use the stairmaster

These forms of cardio are enjoyable for me and easy on my knees

What is your next goal?

Finish off the 2021 competition season with strong placings

What’s your Favorite Quote?

If you think you can, you are right. If you think you can’t, you are right. -Henry Ford

Social Media:

texas_miss on IG

Photo Credit:

IG: @che1barra