1) Who is Arlene Santos? (where are you from, what do you do, a bit about yourself (hobbies, etc)
I’m originally from Cuba, but I’ve lived most of my life in Upstate New York. I’m a server part-time, and a full-time mom to a beautiful little girl. My passions include cooking (and eating, of course!), fitness, and motivating others to achieve their own health and fitness goals.
2) How many years have you been training?
I started going to the gym about 3 years ago, but it didn’t become a lifestyle for me until about 2 years ago.
3) Whats been the most challenging/hardest part of your journey so far? and how have you overcome them?
I’ve experienced several setbacks in my personal life that have had a severe impact on my training. For example, in 2016 my husband and I split up. That was really hard. My entire life changed. It took me about six months to start training consistently again. We have a beautiful friendship now, but at the time, it was a horrible thing to go through. I realized that the best way to overcome it was to take life one day at a time. I did the best that I could in that season of my life, and although looking back there’s things I would do differently, all that you can do is your best until you know better.
4) What does your typical workout/diet routine look like?
My workouts change periodically. My coach and I usually discuss any changes we feel I would benefit from, and he makes adjustments accordingly. I like to train at least 5 days a week, otherwise I don’t know what to do with myself. As far as diet goes, that’s a work in progress haha. In my off season I’m more of an intuitive eater. I eat when I’m hungry, and I don’t deprive myself (in moderation).
5) What new knowledge have you learned over this past year regarding training, lifestyle and nutrition?
I’ve learned that I need to be patient with myself; that consistency over time yields results. I’ve also learned that the key to remaining consistent is finding balance.
6) Whats your favourite cheat/Treat meal?
All of them! Haha. As previously stated I’m very passionate about food. For me it’s about the entire dining experience, so I try to have a nice dinner out every once in a while.
7) one supplement that you could not live without?
Pre workout. Everything else pretty much sits in my cabinet. I believe in supplementing only when needed, but for the most part you can get the majority of what you need from diet alone.
8) If you had to start out from scratch with your physique what would you do differently and why?
I only wish that I had paid more attention to, and remedied any imbalances. But overall, I love my body and this lifestyle is one of constant growth and learning. Every day is a new opportunity to make any necessary changes.
9) Who do you look upto in the fitness industry and why?
I’ll be honest, I don’t really follow anyone in the fitness industry. I’m very internally motivated. I find that “looking up to” can sometimes lead to comparing yourself to other people, which isn’t healthy. There are a few people who’s physiques I think are beautiful and admirable, like Angelica Texeira, Brigitte Goudz, and Heidi Somers to name a few. Overall, I’m usually more inspired by the average person, like a new mom working hard to regain her confidence, because that to me is more relatable.
10) If you had to give one bit of advice to people starting out what would that be?
Love your body at every stage of your journey. Understand that your body is amazing. It’s capable of doing and withstanding incredible things. I can’t stress that enough. I preach that constantly. You may not be where you want to be, but hating yourself is not going to get you there any faster. Be kind and patient with yourself.
11) What new goals are on the horizon?
Right now, I don’t have any set plans to compete, but that may change. I’m always working toward building my desired physique, and getting stronger. Those are always the main goals.
12) Where can people find you? (website, social media accounts)
Instagram! Tarlene1234 I love connecting with people and sharing my story with others.
