Full Name: Jess Lever
Age: 26
Federation: NFMUK & UKUP
Past Federations: Also have competed with 2bros once.
Coach: Body By Jo
Where are you from: Northamptonshire
What is your occupation/work? Health & Fitness Manager/ Personal Trainer
When did you start to compete and WHY?
I started competing back in May 2018.
The main reason being was because I wanted to challenge myself in a way that I had never done before and prove to myself that I can go on a stage with confidence and look good in an amazing sparkly bikini.
Have you done any other sports before?
When I was younger I used to dance (ballet, tap, modern) then from around the age of 9 I then went on to horse riding but never took that to a high competitive level. I did horse riding more for just a hobby and a few local shows and then eventually I landed within the fitness industry.
What was the reaction of your friends and family when you decided to compete?
Amazing! Everyone was pretty supportive particularly my parents.
Do you remember your first time on stage?
Yes! I was actually extremely lucky to win and gain my pro status in my first ever competition. It was an incredible experience and one I truly will never forget.
What changed since?
Since my first time on stage, I then went on to doing a couple more shows as I still wanted more experience on the stage. However I am now taking time out due to an injury so will now continue to rehabilitate and build for at least a year before stepping on the stage again.
Which did you competition you enjoy the most and why?
The atmosphere and the support from other competitors but most of all sharing some time with my mum.
What was / is your biggest success on stage or in personal life ?
Stage would be gaining my pro status in my first ever show.
Personal life would be continuing to progress and pursue my own goals in when I’m fearful.
What do you think girls should know before they will hit the competition stage?
That it certainly isn’t a walk in the park or just glitz and glam.
Who is your bikini idol?
Oh gosh! This is a tough one as I have a few but I’d have to say Lauren Simpson!
How was your last prep and how did you manage your diet?
My last prep certainly came to be one of my hardest. I was suffering with an injury in which I have now had surgery for, so a lot of things had to be adapted in order for me to continue my journey to stage. I also struggled a lot with diet as I found myself picking an awful lot but the closer to show I got the more determined I got to just pull myself together as I had already made it so far!
How often do you practice your posing ?
When competing every day! I would also book at least one 1-2-1 a month as well as attend regular group posing sessions.
Your favourite bikini?
Blue from Bikini BKB by Bikini Mama
What is your next plans?
My next plan is to compete late 2020. I definitely would like to compete with the NFMUK again but I am still deciding on the rest.
Do you have any other hobbies outside work and gym?
I like to be sociable when I can even if it just involves going out for some food or a nice walk somewhere but generally speaking I’m kind of a workaholic and live for the gym!
Who you would like to say thank you or give a shout out?
My mum for being my biggest support throughout prep and being a huge part of my journey but also my dad for supporting financially as without him I couldn’t have got there in the first place.
