Up Close with Fitness Celeb, Sheri Vucick

As part of a new series, I will be featuring a variety of Fitness Celebrities who are transforming the fitness industry with their talent, beauty, and amazing skills, to inspire those of you thinking about competing or making a change in your lifestyle.

To kick things off, I wanted to feature one of the best in the industry, this 3 time Fitness Universe Champion and mother of two is making history on and off the stage.

Name: Sheri Vucick

Age: 33

Claim to Fame: Fitness Universe Champion 2003, 2006 and 2008

Hometown: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

How did you get involved in the fitness industry?
I got started in the fitness industry when I was 21 right after I had my first son Steven. I was a competitive gymnast until I was 17 and missed pushing myself and setting goals…I needed something, I’m a born competitor! So I started weight training put together a routine and a month later I did my first show and placed 2nd.  The feeling of accomplishment when I was on stage was like nothing I ever felt and the memories are something I will cherish for a long time.

Occupation: My husband and I run a Mixed Martial arts and Personal Training business called Ultimate Fighting and Fitness.

On your time…How do you balance your time between family, work, and your fitness career? Being a personal trainer makes things a lot easier. If there are days I can’t make it to the gym I just workout with one of my clients, they love it!  I do most of my cardio at home on my treadmill. I practice my routine 3x’s a week in the afternoon, Joey loves the kids area while the oldest is in school and I lift in the evening 5 days a week, which only takes about 45min. Sometimes it is a challenge to stay focused, especially with kids, however, I feel that I am leading by example and teaching my kids to live a healthy lifestyle.

In your fridge? Eggs, chicken, turkey bacon, lettuce, fat free cheese, Balsamic vinegar, fresh vegetables and lots of frozen veggies(always in a hurry), low fat cottage cheese,fresh fruit, natural peanut butter, spray butter, low sugar ketchup and 2% milk for the kids(they love cereal).

What keeps you motivated? My family keeps me motivated. Their unconditional love and support motivates me to do my best and make them proud.

What is your proudest moment? Besides having my two beautiful boys I would have to say winning the Fitness Universe title my first time there. I had always watched these shows on ESPN and was in aw of all the competitors, just hoping to crack top ten. When they announced me as the winner I couldn’t believe it….it was a something I had played over and over in my dreams and it was actually coming true, was so unexpected. Something I will never forget!!

Is there anything left that you still want to accomplish in the fitness industry? I have accomplished more than I ever thought possible.. these have been some of the most enjoyable years of my life. I feel very fortunate to have done so well and I know it would have been nearly impossible without the love and support from my family and friends. I am truly blessed!!!!

What advice would you offer to someone looking to compete?
I would ask lots of questions. Find someone who has competed before so they can give you advice and lead you in the right direction. Most important have fun!!!

We will miss seeing Sheri on the competitive scene this year as she is taking some time off.  Sheri says “Competing is my passion and it will always be a huge part of my life. I will continue to help others get ready to compete and live happier healthier lives.” We know Sheri will do just that and we can look forward to her return back on the scene in 2010 and I am sure as always, in true Sheri style, she will return to the stage with an amazing routine, perfect physique, and her beautiful smile.  Check out Sheri’s amazing “Terminator” themed performance from the Fitness Universe Show below: