October 20, 2011. Self-effacing and surprisingly petite for someone well known in the fitness and workout industry, Jenna Limerick is in training for the Miss Bikini World Champs, and in a world of iron discipline, she’s ready to make whatever sacrifices necessary to achieve her goal.
The double winner of the NABBA Miss Bikini South Africa title (2009 and 2011) jets off soon to take on the world’s best as part of the South African team. (see bottom of post for more info.)
“I’ll be honest, when you’re in this sport, if you take it seriously, you don’t have a life. It demands the strictest discipline, socialising is difficult because you have to control your diet at all times.
“I get a lot of energy and inspiration knowing I am a role model to a lot of sports-mad young girls. Sometimes it’s really tough, but I believe in what I’m doing.”
She chugs down a cup of serious black coffee, one of the things she is allowed (along with sweeteners, of course). Lots of chicken and fish (minus the sauces), salads, brocolli and rice (depending on whether she’s preparing for a show or not) are in her eating plans.
Exercise is also a huge factor . . . Jenna works out four hours a day, in the morning, lunchtime and late afternoon/evening. These include kettlebells and cardio sessions.
“All the hard work and sacrifices are absolutely worth it, because this is something I’ve set my heart on achieving.”
Kettlebells regimen
Jenna took a decision recently to move away from weights training to a kettlebells regimen, partly to avoid injury and because she has no interest in moving from the Miss Bikini segment to bodybuilding.
“I changed my routing about a year ago, because I was really worried about injuries associated with weights. I have to give credit to Sean Temple and Flux Motion at Lincoln on the Lake, where I train.”
She reckons one of the great benefits of kettlebells is the stretching and thorough warm-up and warm-down undertaken for each session. Sean has been assisting her with her workout routines, while she also has an “eating coach”, Andrew Hudson, who keeps her on the right track in that area.
Jenna got into the sport while training at La Lucia gym. She was spotted by bodybuilding guru Chris Scott, who immediately recognised her potential and recommended she take her gym work seriously. There followed a rapid period of development and an association with Muscle Science, and Jenna’s surge towards the top of the sport was set in motion.
Now, the serious business of taking on the world beckons as Jenna prepares to jet off to the world champs, where the tough Americans lie in await, and some of the Europeans are also a force to be reckoned with. Her hopes for the event?” Realistically, I’m hoping for a top 6 placing, which will allow me to secure a Pro Card, meaning I can compete regularly no the international circuit as a professional. That would be a dream come true.”
Q&A with Jenna Limerick
Your favourite snack?
“When allowed, I’ve got a sweet tooth and a real soft spot for chocolate.”
Favourite spot for a cup of coffee on the Ridge?
“Body Guru Health Cafe at Lincoln on The Lake.”
Beach bum or mall rat?
“Beach.”
What do you do to make ends meet?
“I do online personal training and provide eating plans for clients who contact me for assistance. I occasionally take classes at Flux Motion.”
What do you do for chill time?
“Go to the beach, movies at Gateway or shopping.”
***Jenna is still looking for sponsorship to help pay for her considerable expenses for the World Championships. If you can assist in any way, please e-mail jenna@fluxmotion.net – Interview by Garth Johnstone
Pictures: Muscle Science
2 Comments
Jen, you’ve done amazingly well up to now and we’re proud of you. The fact that you’ve made it to “worlds” is testimony to your single minded determination and focus and is just reward for all your hard work.
Good luck from your biggest fan.
Best of luck Jenna. Hope all the sacrifices were worth it.