Fitness contestant pumped up following big win

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This article was published 29/07/2010 (5857 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Winnipegger Tannis Miller is pumped up about her future after placing first in a prestigious recent fitness contest.

Miller, 24, took first place in the diva bikini model category at the World Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation Alberta Championships in Calgary on July 3, beating out 59 other competitors from across Canada.

“To win was just amazing. It still hasn’t really sunk in yet,” said Miller, who lives in south St. Vital.

“I’ve been training so hard for this and it was really flattering to know that I beat out so many competitors in such a prestigious competition,” added the Glenlawn Collegiate alumnus.

“And to win in the bikini category is all about confidence. Seriously, you have to be as strong in the mind as you do physically.”

As part of her prize, Miller won a much sought-after Pro Card, which means she can now compete for cash prizes with professionals at future events.

“But for me, it’s not so much about winning prizes. It’s about getting exposure and getting noticed. If you do well at a WBFF event, you know you’re on your way up,” Miller said, noting one of her “dreams” is to one day be featured in Sports Illustrated.

In Calgary, Miller also won the right to take the stage at the upcoming WBFF World Championships in Toronto in September.

For now, though, Miller is focusing her energy on goals closer to home.

Though still currently employed at Professional Edge Fitness & Conditioning on Wilkes Avenue, Miller, who has a psychology degree from the University of Manitoba, plans to eventually become a freelance fitness instructor.

“Things are still in the early stages, but I’ve already got a few clients lined up, such as a woman who is training for a bikini contest in Las Vegas. I also want to do some online training with clients, such as nutrition and workout planning,” Miller said.

“If somebody wants to get in shape, I’ll help them get in the best shape of their life. I see myself as more of a consultant, but I will also meet people in the gym for personalized, one-on-one sessions.”

So where do Miller’s inspiration and motivation come from?

“It’s funny, because I was never into sports at school and I hated gym class. I was more artsy and played the flute and was involved with the band and the choir,” Miller said.

In 2008, Miller just decided to start making changes in her life and setting personal goals.

“I got a little obsessed. I began working on what I consider to be my ideal physique. You are always looking to keep improving. Now I want to inspire others to realize their own potential,” she said.

And now matter how many contestants share the stage with Miller, she says success ultimately boils down to a personal battle.

“Really, I’m always competing against myself. It’s such a victory when I look in the mirror and notice small changes.”
For more information, visit www.tannismiller. com.    

simon.fuller@canstarnews.com