As the WBFF continues to grow, we see new names and faces at every show. If I could, I would spotlight every competitor I get the pleasure to meet and speak to. Knowing that would be an impossible task, I tend to bring to your attention those who stand out to me in some way. (more…)
Author Archive
Sarah Brockner is “home” in the WBFF
Posted by Frank Budelewski on November 1st 2011
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WBFF Pro Sharon Polsky is an inspiration to ALL!
Posted by Frank Budelewski on October 13th 2011
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Staying true to my mission of bringing exceptional athletes to the public eye, I would like to introduce everyone to an amazing woman, Sharon Polsky. I have recently had the pleasure of getting to know Sharon on both a professional and personal level, and this woman just continues to shock and amaze me. It’s her “never quit” attitude, her sense of humor, and her humility that makes this woman SO unique. Rare in this sport do you find someone like her who is just as interested in training and promoting others and this organization, as most are in training and promoting themselves. She is a rare and beautiful woman with a World Class physique who I have NO DOUBT will continue to make quite a mark in this industry.
Sharon, a former dancer and athlete, has been a personal trainer for over 15 years and a national fitness seminar presenter for over 10 years. In 2006, she embarked on an amazing journey, competing in fitness competitions. Sharon has competed on both a national and international level and currently competes with the WBFF (World Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation) where she was awarded her professional status in May of 2011 in Diva Fitness Model. Throughout this competition journey Sharon has been fortunate enough to work with many great photographers and sponsors and has been featured in Oxygen Magazine 2 times, Fit and Firm Magazine, ESPN/Fox Sports 3 times, and modeled for Las Vegas BikeFest and MalibuStrings numerous times. Sharon was recently awarded the Monica Brant E.W.E. Inspirational Award at the 2011 WBFF World Championships; for her work inspiring and motivating women all over the world. Sharon is now a staff writer for World Physique Magazine and shares information with her readers about her competition strategies.
Sharon is the proud owner of PPF a group fitness and personal training studio in Long Beach California; and is certified by AFAA, ACE, Spinning and Pilates Method in fitness and is an examiner and provider for AFAA & ACE for the Step, Primary and Programs of her own. In her spare time she works as a professional acrobat performing in night clubs and special events all over the world.
Contact Information:
Sharon Polsky
www.sharonpolsky.com
cell: 858-442-3192
location: Long Beach/Los Angeles, California
Sponsors & Partners:
12 Week Fitness Challenge
MuscleNog Protein
SEI Nutrition
Performance Drink
MalibuStrings.com Bikinis
Gloss Army Fitness Wear
Helix Fitness Equipment
Hampton Fitness Equipment
SAYiWON’T Clothing Company
2011 Rankings:
WBFF – World Championships – Awarded the Monica Brant Award
WBFF – Central US Championships – Awarded Pro Card in Diva Fitness Model
WBFF – Fitness Atlantic. Fitness Model Masters – Champion
Amie Francisco is “Well Suited” to suit you!
Posted by Frank Budelewski on June 28th 2011
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With the success of all WBFF shows this year, it is safe to say the organization has shocked the industry. What sets the organization apart from so many others are the unlimited opportunities the sport is that surround the WBFF. Lets face facts… not everyone is going to win. However, in the WBFF, it is more about getting noticed. Working hard, and showing what you were able to do with your body. For many, you may not get a trophy, but just the thrill of walking accross the stage in a suit custom made just for you could be all the reward that you need. (more…)
Lindsay Forster is a “little” girl we can ALL look UP to!!!
Posted by Frank Budelewski on May 4th 2011
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From battling Crohn’s Disease at a young age, all the way to her journey to her first competition and her passion for both training and training clients. Safe to say the Fitness lifestyle was made for someone like Lindsay Forster.
Lindsay is a Midwest girl from Bloomington, IN. She moved to Miami, FL after graduating from college but then decided to move back to her hometown two years ago. At the age of eight she was diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease, a chronic inflammatory disease of the intestines that may affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract. Crohn’s Disease is a debilitating auto-immune disease which causes many unpleasant symptoms. Throughout elementary school and middle school Lindsay was put on several medications for the chronic condition including steroids. She was made fun of constantly for having “puffy” cheeks and became extremely critical of herself. This eventually led her down the path of anorexia and bulimia and other unhealthy exercise and eating habits. Just a few years ago she made a vow to herself to get her life together and BE HEALTHY. Lindsay read every fitness magazine she could get her hands on and started lifting weights and actually EATING! 5 to 6 MEALS A DAY in fact! Her body started to change and she began to see results–muscle and definition. She felt strong and athletic! Lindsay just competed in her first Figure competition where she placed in the Top 5 and can’t wait to compete again. Competing was all about a goal. Lindsay set a goal for herself and she reached it! It was more than stepping out on stage in a bikini- it was about determination, sacrifice, focus, and NOT GIVING up! The process taught Lindsay so much about herself– she didn’t need food as a crutch, she COULD keep going even after she felt like she couldn’t go anymore and she could DO ANYTHING she set her mind to.
For her next goal, Lindsay would like to compete in her very first WBFF Show. She was first inspired by the WBFF when she networked with some of her inspirations via Facebook. Many of her inspirations are competitors within the organization- Claire Rae, Chady Dumore, Miryah Scott and Monica Brant. She recently met Claire Rae at the Arnold Classic this year. Lindsay hopes to compete in the US Central Championships in Kansas City, MO this May and become part of the WBFF where it is all about the athletes. “The excitement and adrenaline that the shows have is just amazing,” Lindsay says. “I would love to be a part of the WBFF and show that you can overcome adversity and reach your goals.”
Lindsay lives by a great mantra and positive attitude; “A winner is not someone who has never suffered a setback. She is someone who knows that when setbacks come, she must get up and continue forward. If you refuse to quit – you cannot lose. Quitting is not an option, but change is always part of the winner’s life. Anyone who is willing to change can develop a winning attitude.”
WBFF Competitor Katie Noval
Posted by Frank Budelewski on September 1st 2010
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As I have been in preparation for the WBFF World Championships, I have met many amazing people. Male and female. I have mentioned many times that this organization is more like a giant family than just a group of self absorbed competitors only interested in what they can gain for themselves. If you go online, whether it be Facebook or Myspace or Muscle-ink or any of the many online sites, you will find WBFF competitors congratulating or supporting eachother. I love that about the WBFF. (more…)
WBFF Pro- Big Frank B (12 weeks out)
Posted by Frank Budelewski on August 4th 2010
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“IMAGE IS EVERYTHING” with TaylorMade designs
Posted by Frank Budelewski on May 28th 2010
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Every month I attempt to address the most common questions people have in my column “Ask Big Frank B.” There is one common question that MANY people have, whether amateur, or even pro. Everyone wants to know how they can get their “big break”. They aren’t talpking about competing. Competition is just one avenue when attempting to make a name for yourself. You can’t just leave it at that. AND you can’t expect that some day you will be walking through the grocery store and someone is going to rush up to you and offer to put you in a magazine. Now haha that MAY happen, but I’d hate to see what magazine it is, or what you would be doing! haha. Ok, seriously… being a part of the WBFF, Paul Dillett makes every attempt to get his competitors seen, noticed, sponsored, etc. BUT you also have to market yourself. You put in all the time, money and effort, so it’s really up to YOU whether or not you will become a true success. The ones in this sport who have been successful understood that and took marketing into their own hands. Many of you go with photographers and have pictures taken. Ok… thats a great start. But then what? Putting them as your facebook or myspace default isn’t going to help much. Sending them to, or contacting photographers that you see have contracts with magazines? Ok thats better. BUT what is setting you apart? Think of how many men and women send out their pictures. If you were a photographer or magazine editor and you had a stack of photographs, wouldn’t you look for something or someone who stood out? Not unlike creating a resume that commanded attention instead of being just like everyone elses. Now, I have met a unique individual named Gary Wright at TaylorMade designs. He understands how competitive the industry can be, and he has been helping many of our athletes on an individual basis. Well, now Gary is expanding and offering his services to the entire WBFF. I have seen his work and it is amazing. When asked about his services, Gary had this to say…”Here at TaylorMade Designs, we strive to create eye popping designs, that get you the attention you want and deserve. Our company is founded on the idea that “IMAGE IS EVERYTHING”. You rarely get a second chance for a first impression and a first impression is everything! We take your photos and our creativity to give you something that is eye catching, powerful and that makes a statement to your audience. We don’t want to be your average design company. We want to be set apart from all the rest and in conjunction with the WBFF, we can encompass designs that will set the competition on fire. I believe that working with the WBFF, we can help all bodybuilding and fitness professionals, achieve their goals and reach towards the stars. Your designs are just not made, they are TaylorMade! The WBFF and TaylorMade Designs, what a winning combination.” Remember, you don’t set limits on the physique and image that you create, so why set a limit on what you can achieve with it? Don’t stand and watch the parade go by! JOIN IN! Gary Wright and TaylorMade Designs can be found on facebook or contacted directly at taylormadedesigns4u@gmail.com
ASK BIG FRANK B. Issue 4
Posted by Frank Budelewski on April 13th 2010
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Here we are people! Issue 3 of Fit & Firm Magazine, and the response has been astounding. I want to personally thank all of those who have received my column in such a positive way. It’s always nice when people come up to me and say how surprised they are that I am not, “just another meathead.” Hahaha! I guess I do have my own unique writing style and I am fortunate to have this outlet in which to express myself. Like me or hate me, I hope I at least offer some advice or information that benefits you in some way. Please keep submitting your questions and comments and I will do my best to address them all. I of course can only put so many into print however. Again I thank you for your support!
Frank? I have a question. I have been following the WBFF for the past few years and love the website. I have looked at all of the pictures and videos and I saw a girl that looks ALOT like the girl who won the NPC Nationals and became IFBB pro. I saw an interview with that girl on RXMUSCLE.com and she says she never competed before so I am confused. Maybe it is the girls sister or something but they look so much alike! DO you know who I am talking about or am I crazy? -Michelle P.
Well… one thing about me? I say it the way it is. I know EXACTLY who you are talking about. Her name is Mindi Smith. Now, I am not going to bash in any way. I am simply going to give the TRUTH! First? Congratulations to Mindi for doing so well in the NPC and IFBB. She won the 2009 Sacramento figure, the 2009 NPC Overall Figure Nationals, and she took first at the 2010 IFBB Phoenix Pro Figure qualifying her for the 2010 Figure Olympia. That is fantastic for her since she accomplished what she wanted to. However, I have also watched the interviews and read the articles and… well… Sacramento was NOT Mindi Smiths first competition as stated many times over and over. Mindi was a member of the WBFF and competed in the 2009 WBFF World Championships in the Pro Diva Fitness Model division just months before her NPC debut at the Sacramento. In the 2009 WBFF World Championships, she placed 5th. That should show you just how unbelievable the talent is in the WBFF. I have said over and over that the WBFF has different standards than the IFBB and NPC. We believe our figure competitors epitomize what the figure athlete should look like. Unfortunately, the NPC and IFBB has changed their view on figure. They have instructed figure competitors to lose muscle, do not come in hard, and should be smooth. Well, should competitive athletes look like they walked right out of the gym and onto stage? Isn’t that why they started the bikini division? Anyone I have talked to who watched the Figure Olympia or Arnold Classic, was disappointed and honestly disgusted with what they have turned figure into. Watching an Icon like Monica Brant not placing and being forced to lose her beautiful muscle that she so proudly displayed for years, or women like Larissa Reis who never placed higher than 14th until she finally gave up and lost alot of the beautiful muscle and shape that her fans adored in order to comply with the IFBB judging standards, and she won her first pro show last year. Ok, enough with the IFBB and NPC because I am getting reflux just thinking about it. HAHA!! Bottom line? Our figure girls? The IFBB and NPC do not even have anymore. Our fitness models who are not winning and instead taking 5th, are winning overall NPC National shows and winning IFBB shows. And is it just Mindi Smith? No it is not! Look at the posters for the 2009 WBFF World Championships! There is a lovely woman on the posters. Does she look familiar? Her name is Ava Cowan. Ava who was scheduled to compete in the World Championships and was a member of the WBFF, dropped out just weeks before the show, after Paul Dillet proudly displayed her on the shows promotional posters. Ava left to compete and win the overall title at the 2009 Eastern USA which qualified her for the 2009 Figure Nationals where she won the figure height class C division, and won her IFBB pro card, getting beaten for the overall by Mindi Smith. Once again, congatulations to all who do well in whatever organization you choose to compete in. But just because you don’t do well in a competition, or are afraid you do not measure up to the competition in a federation, and switch to another? Do not forget where you come from. Better yet? Don’t flat out lie! Because these days, anyone can pick up a computer and look for themselves and see what you have done.
ASK BIG FRANK B. -Issue #3
Posted by Frank Budelewski on February 25th 2010
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Once again I want to thank everyone for their questions and support for not only this column, but also the WBFF. Hopefully everyone has had the chance to see the new online magazine at www.fitandfirmmag.com. It is a one of a kind revolutionary FREE magazine that the WBFFs owner Paul Dillett has come up with to once again show how different this organization truely is. Yes we have sponsors. Sponsors that we selectively pick from and believe in and support. However the magazine is for YOU. With no BS information. Not pushing anyone or anything on you. Simply offering real world information. In other words THE TRUTH! There are no corporate big wigs pulling our strings telling us what to say or push or endorse. Just like the WBFF is the organization that supports and promotes it’s athletes, it’s magazine is truely for it’s fans. If there is something you want to see? Tell us. It’s YOUR magazine.
Frank, I want to say I really enjoy your column. It is informative, well written and humorus. I was just wondering where you work out to build a physique like that. I moved to a small town and I know there are a few small gyms, but nothing like what I am used to since I’ve been a member of Gold’s Gym for years. I’m considering just buying my own equipment! -Jim P.
Hey Jim, thanks for the letter. You bring up a great point! Buying your own equipment? Bro if you have that much money? GIVE ME SOME haha! Seriously, if you are saying you don’t want to join a gym because it isn’t Gold’s, yet you are thinking about buying equipment? Hmmm… how should I put this? WAKE UP!! Thats an insane amount of money. GO to the gyms in your town. Just because they are not a Gold’s or World’s gym, SO WHAT? Maybe they will surprise you and be as good if not better! I’ve been a member of Gold’s for 20years. I was also a consultant for one that we opened and set sales records. I have seen the franchise change quite a bit over the years. And I have to say I miss the sound of the clanging weights since everything is rubberized. I miss machines that FIT me, since now machines are designed unisex and I am not a… small guy. I miss throwing on the sweats and getting a good workout. Not having the anxiety of… oh my god! I cannot find the underarmour shirt that matches these pants haha! Well, just a few weeks ago I was at work which happens to be in the small town of Batavia, NY. Guys I work with kept talking about this guy who opened a gym in town named Next Level Fitness. Partial to my Gold’s, I didn’t think to check it out. As the weeks went by, more and more friends told me I really should see it. To appease my friends at work I went a just to look at it. Set on the historical Main street, I saw a cozy (yeah I said cozy! deal with it!!!) coffee shop in the front. I pulled into the back lot, and when I entered I was shocked. I was no longer in small town Batavia. I felt like I was in a club in New York City. The Architecture, design, colors, everything was absolutely beautiful. Now I started thinking… ok well, this must be just a fancy club. Until I got a tour. The gym is three floors. The top floor has a 3,000sq ft womens gym, beautiful lockerooms with steamrooms, and an aerobics room that also has brass poles for pole dancing classes. The middle floor where the reception area is has the state of the art cardio equipment, and the first floor or basement was a dream come true for me. A cross between old school and new. The best of equipment both old and new. Whatever truely works. Not one peice of equipment am I not comfortable on. And ready for this? Dumbells up to 200 pounds. Yes you read that correctly. I have not seen dumbells go that high in ANY gym anywhere close to where I live. And there are plenty of gyms. I was so excited about the gym I started that very day. After my workout I met Ken Mistler and his lovely wife Andrea who own the club. Both truely wonderful people who take pride in their club, and unlike many club owners, you will see Ken mopping and cleaning the bathrooms, walking around seeing what he can do for members, etc. It is such a unique and rare experience. And there has not been a day or time that I have not seen Andrea working at the counter assisting members, giving tours, etc. And unlike in this day of games and sales techniques, they greet people with a smile, show the gym, show the price, and allow the potential member to make their choice. No high pressure sales here. They feel joining their club should be a positive experience. Not one filled with anxiety. And my reception to the club by members has been nothing short or humbling. I will be bringing a new package to the stage this year and it will be due to one of those “small town gyms”, so never assume. Go into the clubs and see what they have to offer. (more…)
ASK BIG FRANK B.- Issue #2
Posted by Frank Budelewski on January 21st 2010
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Wow guys and girls! The response to last months issue was incredible! My myspace page was hit with so many questions, and comments it may take a while to get to them all. BUT I will try my best. I just want to thank everyone who has taken the time to write and show your support not only for myself, but for the WBFF! My column is YOUR column! If you have a favorite athlete? Let me know! I will try to post your comments. These men and women (myself included) work and train very hard to give you a show, and to help inspire and motivate you . I know they all love to hear your feedback and support. Also, if you click on athletes at the top of the main WBFF page, you can leave a personal comment for any of the athletes. Tell them what you think of them! How they have influenced you, etc! Unlike other organizations where your best chance of connecting with your favorites is by standing in line like cattle to get a quick picture with them at a competition? The WBFF athletes are very accessable! Always appreciative of your comments and support. Amateur as well as professional! (more…)
WBFF is PROUD to welcome IFBB PRO- Michele Ralabate
Posted by Frank Budelewski on January 6th 2010
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I have some very exciting news for ALL competitors both amateur and professional looking to take their physiques to a level they never thought possible. Also fans out there with dreams or plans to compete in the WBFF. IFBB Pro Michele Ralabate has dedicated herself to helping, coaching, and motivating competitors to be their absolute best. Michele is an icon in the sport and has seen ALL sides of it, good and bad. So impressed with what Paul Dillett is doing with the WBFF, she has decided to become a huge part of the organization. At first considering a return to the stage as a competitor, Michele has decided that she has SO much to offer, that she would be better working with our athletes making them the best they can be. Sharing her vast knowledge and expertise in every facet of the sport. I am proud to make this announcement since I have been a fan as well as a friend of hers for many years, and KNOW what she can offer all who utilize her!
Michele Ralabate has been a world-class athlete and fitness trainer for more than twenty years. Her early athletic endeavors were in gymnastics, with a scholarship to the University of Pennsylvania.. Michele graduated with a B.S. in Physical Education / Sports Management. As an elite level gymnast, Michele was invited to the 1984 Olympic Trials. Unfortunately injury prevented her from finishing the competition but that would not deter her from pursuing other physical feats. Michele then went on to earn professional status in both figure and bodybuilding. As a result of her bodybuilding success, she has been featured on ESPN. Her articles on training and nutrition have been published in several magazines. Featured in well over thirty magazines both nationally and internationally. Michele has even graced the cover of several muscle & fitness magazines.
Michele is one of only three women to compete in both the IFBB Ms. Olympia bodybuilding and the IFBB Fitness Olympia. Michele won the lightweight and overall title at the 1994 Nationals and then went on to win her first pro show at the 1995 Jan Tana Classic. Michele also won the Women’s Strength Extravaganza two years in a row, beating Ray Hollett the gladiators records. Michele has always won the best poser award taking advantage of her vast athletic abilities as a gymnast and dancer.
Michele is now available for pre-contest prep or off season training. What ever your goal is Michele will make it happen. Take it from a Pro who has been on both sides of the sport and knows what it takes to be a winner! She can be contacted at: 716-200-3124 or e-mail her at micheleralabate@yahoo.com.
Ask Big Frank B. – Issue #1
Posted by Frank Budelewski on November 17th 2009
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WBFF Pro Bodybuilder Frank Budelewski has been around the sport in many capacities for over 20 years. Having competed in bodybuilding, possessing 3 personal training certifications, consulting many successful clubs during presales and grand openings, attending countless competitions, judging many competitions, training many athletes, and now a representative for the WBFF, he has seen it all. Which brings this new section where you can ask just about ANYTHING related to the sport, the federation, etc and you will get a NO BULL, NO FLUFF, REAL WORLD answer!
1.) Ok, you say that we can ask anything. Ok, the why don’t you tell us what process the WBFF uses for drug testing. -Jim P.
Sure Jim I would be happy to answer that, and any other questions anyone would like to ask. Testing process? That’s easy… NONE. The WBFF does not, and has not made any claim to be a drug free organization. Do we promote drugs? Of course not. However unlike every other professional sport, we do not lie to ourselves and pretend that drugs do not exist in ALL sports. Whether or not to compete while using drugs is a personal choice. They are illegal, so SHOULD people be using them? No. But it is not our job or responsibility to enforce the law. We simply judge the athletes based on how their physique looks on them.
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New WBFF PRO- Frank Budelewski
Posted by Frank Budelewski on October 23rd 2009
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I wanted to take advantage of the blogs to introduce myself. My name is Frank Budelewski, and I live in Buffalo, NY (just over the bridge:). To give a background, years ago I was in a severe car accident that threatened my life, and took away my dream of being a professional football player. It happened a couple weeks before college, so I never even got to play there. I went through 6 very long years of operations and physical therapy and was told I would never play football again, (more…)
