Mom (38) clinches title at IFBB
She did not think she would actually take him up on his offer but being an athlete she soon adjusted to the training
CARINE Kloenne-Warren from Glen Marais won the women’s classic body building title when she took part in this year’s IFBB SA National Championship in Port Elizabeth.
The 38-year-old mother of one competed in the championship on September 7, representing Gauteng Central.
Apart from gaining the top spot in her division, she explains how body building has been part of her life.
“My uncle, Johann Joubert, was a body builder, so he took me to competitions. One day he asked if I’d like to get on stage and compete,” she said.
She did not think she would actually take him up on his offer but being an athlete she soon adjusted to the training after she was introduced to Doug Slater.
“Three years ago I entered and won my first competition, Night of the Champion, and haven’t looked back,” she recalled.
She was diagnosed with cancer seven years ago. However, she has since gone into remission and describes her diagnosis with cancer as somewhat ironic.
“The cancer I was diagnosed with is a muscular cancer and I had growths in my muscle tissue, so what better way to use these muscles? I found strength in what may be viewed as a weakness,” she smiled.
She also has Type 1 diabetes which also may be viewed as another setback but she has also used this to her advantage.
“Because I have to be conscious of what I eat as an athlete, I can’t really afford to slip up on my diet, as my life can literally depend on it,” she explained.
She has learned a way around her challenges and has found ways to make them work to her advantage.
“Before competitions, we have to dehydrate so when we are on stage, our muscles are well defined. Having diabetes means I can’t do that so I just eat some dry oats to help with water absorption. My illnesses have taught me to be inventive,” she adds.
As a personal trainer she is both inspired and is an inspiration to her clients, who are mainly women. She is working on opening a private studio in her home in November where she will help more women look and feel good about themselves.
“My late father raised us in a home where women mattered and had a voice and an opinion that was important enough to be heard. I grew up with that confidence and willingness to inspire and empower women.
“Some people look at my physique and wonder if I may be considered feminine and beautiful but having worked with the women in the gym, I’m certain that the beauty of a woman is varied and all inclusive as we come in a variety of shapes and sizes,” she said.
She also believes in the importance of support systems and she credits hers to her six-year-old daughter, Luthien and husband, George.
“They are my biggest fans and are there for all my competitions and during my preparation. My little girl is amazing – she already knows all the compulsory poses I need to do on stage,” she smiled.
