How/when did you get started in training and living a fit lifestyle?

I have always been an active person, but didn't acknowledge the benefits of healthy eating and weight training until the age of 23.  It was then that I started making necessary changes to push my body to a new level.

How do you stay motivated?

There are always areas I can improve - I know I can always be better, and train to bring up those areas.

What types of cardio have worked best for you?

I have always used a mixture of low intensity cardio including fasted cardio in the mornings and high intensity cardio including hill/stair sprints and interval training.

Do you have a favourite healthy recipe?

I love to make a multigrain crumbed chicken schnitzel with a sweet potato, spinach leaf salad dress with balsamic vinegar.

What does your diet consist of?

As my time is very restricted my sponsors Muscle Meals Direct have me covered in the food department and I don't have to prep any of my own food.

I have 5-6 meals a day, which consist of lean meats, green vegetables and brown rice or sweet potato.

How do you deal with cravings for junk foods, sweets and salty food?

I allow myself a relaxed meal once a week, which keeps me on track during the in anticipation for this meal haha.

What are your top 3 favourite exercises?

Squats, Deadlifts and Wide Grip Chin Ups.

Do you listen to music whilst you train?

Yes, I love variety- but definitely a Rock girl, the Gunners, Chilli Peppers, U2, Metallica… but I also like the top 20 too.

What is your training routine like?

AM: Fasted Cardio
PM: Weights

e.g.
Day 1: Quads, Glutes
Day 2: Chest and Triceps
Day 3: Hammies,Glutes, Calves
Day 4: Back, Bis, Abs
Day 5: Sprint Session/Interval Training or Plyos
Day 6: Cardio
Day 7: Rest

Do you set short and long term goals?

Yes, I have goals, which are the competitions I compete in, and I love to inspire people and help them achieve their goals, along the way. Long term I would like to hit the American/International stage.

What are you most proud of?

Being happy with where I am in life.

Have you had any obstacles or setbacks towards achieving your goal physique?

No.

How do you measure your progress?

It’s a bit of appearance mixed with performance, no point looking good if you aren't fit and healthy.

Who are your favourite, athletes or fitness models?

I really admire Amanda Doherty- a mother of children and a huge inspiration in the fitness industry.  Also Amanda Latona, such a beautiful girl inside and out!

What supplements would you use/recommend if any?

A good WPI- Syntha 6 Isolate Chocolate Milkshake is a must try, amazing flavour!
A clean Amino Acid, I use Amino X, and for those days that you need a good kick up the butt, I wouldn't go past hyper-fx.

What tips would you give to any woman wanting to get a feminine,
CutandJacked physique like yours?

Don't be afraid to lift weights, especially heavy!!
A good diet and consistency.

Marika Magriplis

Year of birth: 1986
Weight: 52kg
Height: 163cm

Twitter: Twitter.com/MagriplisMarika