''All our dreams can come true if we have the courage to pursue them''
Lauren talks to us about her amazing success at PCA World competition but also why 2019 was not exactly as she planned it all....
And we can't wait to see her back on stage in full power in 2020...
Full Name: Lauren Hemming-Torres
Age: 30
Federation: PCA
Past Federations: UKUP & PCA
Coach: Ollie Carson (Team Kondition)
Where are you from: Brighton
What is your occupation/work ? Personal Trainer
When did you start to compete and WHY? I started competing in 2017 to boost my confidence mostly. I wanted to see what I was capable of doing and find something for myself.
Have you done any other sports before? At school i was very into sports, i was on the football, netball and basket ball team. I was also a long distance runner, now you'll only see me run for the ice cream truck!
What was the reaction of your friends and family when you decided to compete? Friends were extremely supportive but took sometime for family as they didn't really understand the sport.
Do you remember your first time on stage? I do! My whole body was shaking! Trying to smile was nearly impossible as my teeth kept chattering, but the experience was just unforgettable!
What changed since? My confidence has grown massively since my first competition. I now know what to expect and practice a lot more on my posing. Of course I am still extremely nervous when i get on stage but the memories that are made are just priceless.
Which competition did you you enjoy the most and why? To be honest I have enjoyed all of them! If i have to pick one i'd go with PCA Worlds as i felt more relaxed then ever before, Plus meeting people from over 30 countries was just amazing!
What was / is your biggest success on stage or in personal life ? My biggest successes on stage would be becoming UKUP PRO in 2017 and winning PCA Worlds 2018, becoming the first PCA Figure World Champion! In my personal life, Defiantly bringing my two lovely children up on my own. They support me 100% and such a proud mummy to them both!
What do you think girls should know before they will hit the competition stage? Firstly go and watch a show! Go and see how its run, what the poses are and what category your physique fits best into as each federation is different. Most importantly, find yourself a experienced coach that will put your health before trophies.
Who is your bikini idol? I have a few! Rhea Gayle, Shanique G and Konnie Slyziut..their physiques are just beautiful!
How was your last prep and how did you manage your diet? My last prep wasn't the best ! We sadly had to pull the plug at 5 weeks out as I had a under active thyroid which was causing unnecessary weight gain. It was a struggle as was putting in a 110% but nothing was happening. We are now building and retaining health for next years prep, where we are aiming for my IFBB PRO card in 2Bro events! My coach sends me my meal guide and macros, very easy to follow as its not plain jane as what most people expect on a competition prep.
How often do you practice your posing ? I practice every day, on season and off. There's always something you need to work on and as your body changes throughout prep you will need to adjust your posing to show off your physique BEST.
Your favourite bikini colour? RED. I love the colour!
What is your next plans? Next plan is to build, enjoy a good off season and next year work for that IFBB PRO card!
Do you have any other hobbies outside work and gym? I love taking walks, going on adventures and just keeping active!
Who you would like to say thank you or give a shout out? MASSIVE shout out to my coach Ollie Carson. He helped me out more than most people know. Thanks so much man, bring on next year!
We all started somewhere and here are Lauren's photos before her amazing transformation:
