How/when did you get started in training
and living a fit lifestyle?

I have always been active ever since childhood. If I wasn't doing gymnastics, ballet, judo, swimming, running, athletics, I was out climbing trees or exploring. I guess you could say I was a bit of a tomboy.

How do you stay motivated?

It's something that comes from within. I’m very self-driven. If I set myself a challenge, I won't give up until I achieve it. If I don't, I'll find another way. Being healthy and fit is a lifestyle choice for me, not a 'fad'. The fit lifestyle is my motivation to keep on.

What types of cardio have worked best for you?

In the past I used to be a 'cardio bunny'. I went through a phase in my early twenties where I did a lot of cycling, running and swimming. Now I don't do much cardio at all. I find it very boring. I prefer HIIT or a conditioning circuit.

Do you have a favourite healthy recipe?

My current favourite is 'chocavo mousse'. It’s basically avocado blended with protein powder, cocoa powder, lucuma powder, chia seeds & honey.

What does your diet consist of?

I like to carb cycle dependent on my workout schedule. A typical day would consist of 5-6 meals. Breakfast is usually something like steak and nuts, and berries. Carbs tend to be post-workout, usually sweet potato, quinoa or rice cakes. Protein in the form of meat, fish or seafood spread evenly throughout each meal. Good fats and lots of veggies. Occasionally I like to throw dark chocolate in there, or I love a protein shake blended with coconut oil, berries, banana, lucuma powder, coconut water and a drizzle of honey.

How do you deal with cravings for junk foods, sweets and salty food?

During my recent comp prep, I craved dark chocolate, nut butter, fruit, and chocolate milkshakes but I think that is more than likely because they were restricted. Post-competition, I indulged a little in 'bad' foods but my body doesn't tolerate dairy or gluten very well, even more so after 13 weeks of being extremely 'clean', so I don't particularly crave junk, sweet or salty foods because I know they make me feel awful. I think if you have a healthy balanced approach to food, and become more in tune with your body, then cravings become a thing of the past, or they just become easier to ignore.

What are your top 3 favourite exercises?

• Split squats - A great exercise for working your legs and glutes
• Hip bridge - Targets your hamstrings and glutes...what girl doesn't want a nice rounded booty!
• Chin ups - There is something about these that just make me feel strong and powerful. Not only do they work you're upper body but target your core too. Everyone should learn to do chins!

Do you listen to music whilst you train?

I like to listen to dance music when I train… Always something upbeat. As long as it is loud, has a good beat and not heavy metal, then I’m pretty happy.

What is your training routine like?

Click to view Mirella Clark's workout routine

Do you set short and long term goals?

My most recent goal was to compete in the WBFF European championships in Denmark in April 2013 where I won 1st place in the Diva Fitness (short) category and was awarded a Pro Card. My next goal is to compete in The WBFF Worlds in Vegas in August.

Prior to competing, my goals were often to lift heavier in the weights room.

After Vegas...who knows! I like to set myself challenges, whether they are fitness-related or just to improve my knowledge in the industry through learning/study.

What are you most proud of?

My win in Denmark is something I am extremely proud of. My mum and dad print out my photos from Facebook and stick them around the house. That makes me smile!

Have you had any obstacles or setbacks towards achieving your goal physique?

Nothing other than minor injuries. Nothing that has set me back thankfully.

How do you measure your progress?

I use Skinfold measurements as a guide to my body fat levels. And take regular photos when competing. Other than that, my sleep, mood and energy levels are a good indicator of how I'm doing.

Who are your favourite, athletes or fitness models?

There are so many...Andreia Brazier, Jen Jewell, Rachel Guy, Stephen Box, my WBFF Diva Sisters Juliana Conci-Mitchell and Susie Woffenden, Gordon Greenhorn, Shaun Stafford, Luke Haslett, Andrea Smith…

What supplements would you use/recommend if any?

Magnesium, fish oil, multi-vitamin and vitamin D.

What 3 tips would you give to any woman wanting to get a feminine, CutandJacked physique like yours?

1. Don’t follow fad diets…eat more protein, good fats, plenty of vegetables and carbs when needed
2. Lift weights and lift heavy
3. Hire a good Personal Trainer if you don’t know what you’re doing in the weights room.

Mirella Clark
Born: 1980
Weight: 58kg
Height: 5'4"

Mirella Clark Facebook Fanpage: Facebook.com/MirellaClarkWBFFDivaFitnessCompetitor

Twitter: twitter.com/mirellaclark