This interview is part of the Real Talk Real Women interview series, where we bring you the life-changing, heart-warming and inspirational stories behind the most successful women in health and fitness. Make sure to follow us on Instagram for the latest interviews! For this installment, we are joined by Maggie Beltran.
Let’s start off with a general introduction. How would you describe yourself, what are you all about and how did you get involved in health and fitness?
I describe myself as a persistent person. Every time I focus on a goal I work and work for it. I started with fitness because of my sister's suggestion. Two years ago I had no idea about anything related to competing, I've always been into sports and a healthy diet, so I thought it was a wonderful idea.
Where does your motivation come from?
I like to see my old pictures and compare them with my new shape and how far I've gotten! Also, I'm not going to lie, Pumping And Generation Iron motivate me!
As you decided to make a career out of your passion - what were your biggest stumbling blocks along the way?
Some people will initially have difficulty understanding your lifestyle. Why do you have to eat so many times a day, why you have to go to the gym everyday? They say, come to the party instead! But as I said, once I'm focused, I won't stop!
What’s your perspective on the importance of self-care?
I believe my body is my temple and my house and I like to keep them neat and conserved. That's how I see self-care. Your body is the only thing that comes and goes with you your entire life. You have to take care of it!
What are some of the biggest misconceptions about women lifting weight?
I don't want to get too big. Well...I wish I could get too big! But it's the most common mistake I hear girls and even boys say! Another one is the thinking that you can magically burn fat just from one specific area in your body. It's funny though :)
Many young women who want to lose weight believe that not eating is the way to do it, without realising the consequences of that kind of behavior.
Why do you think this is and what’s your perspective on educating society on healthy nutrition habits?
We live in an era where it is too easy to access information, but at the same time there’s also too much information! And some of the information is based on nothing and people make it go viral. For example, the information about calories being your enemies and eating would make them fat. Actually eating helps you to lose weight. I believe this happens because of the misinformation at home. I think schools should teach this, I would love that!
What are the most unexpected lessons you’ve learned on your health and fitness journey this far?
Dieting too clean and poor and overtraining stress your body. The best is to chill out and enjoy the process (don't think about it too much!)
What do you do to maintain balance in your life?
I try to hangout with my family and friends as much as I can. In 2017 I will take some trips to Asia, Europe and South America to keep my karma on point.
How do you stay productive?
I try to keep busy all the time. I'm a very hyperactive person. I work with my family, so I'm with them most of my time. I also paint, read and study. My cellphone is my office, so I can take it wherever I want.
If you could only choose one thing, what would you tell your younger self?
Lift and eat more.
Can you give a breakdown of your current diet, training and supplementation regimen and the thinking behind it?
I eat 6 times a day, most of the time my diet consists of salmon, turkey, buffalo, chicken, greens, rice and almonds. I'm trying to maintain my body, growing specific areas. Having high sets on leg days and low and short workouts on upper limbs.
Each meal consists of 100 gr protein, 70 gr of carbs and 30 gr fats.
What are your biggest life goals for the year?
I have some goals. I've always wanted to work as a NFL presenter. So I'm working on it, and of course my competitions! I have more competitions in 2017 than the previous years. Also I will take some personal trips around the world so I'm really excited for 2017!
Where can people go to learn more about you online?