In a bold move from gym co-owner to competitive athlete, Crystal Baillargeon of Elliot Lake is preparing for her first-ever appearance at The Legends Super Cup bodybuilding competition in Toronto.
Crystal Baillargeon, who co-owns The Muscle Factory gym in Elliot Lake, is gearing up for her debut at a bodybuilding bikini contest, The Legends Super Cup, happening on September 27 in Toronto.
At 30 years old, this fitness enthusiast is stepping into a competitive arena where judges will be on the lookout for a slim waist, well-defined glutes, and nicely rounded shoulders.
For years, Baillargeon has committed herself to her fitness journey, transforming her body through intense training. “It’s a whole different ball game compared to lifting heavy weights,” she shared, highlighting the significance of perfecting her posing skills, which she practices for 15 minutes each day.
Alongside her posing, Baillargeon integrates repetitive training and cardio into her routine, fine-tuning her physique for the big day. She is trained by her husband, Yanick Baillargeon, also co-owner of the gym.
“I am coaching my wife for this competition. I make her meals, they are very calculated. I am training her and teaching her ways to improve, and she has a posing coach in Sudbury,” explained her husband.
Her motivation to dive into bodybuilding came from an unexpected source. “We had a young man named Tyson come in wanting to lose weight. His determination and hard work inspired me to give bodybuilding a shot,” she recounted.
The dedication shown by the gym member sparked a fire in Baillargeon, pushing her to challenge herself and explore the world of competitive bodybuilding.
Yet, the path hasn’t been without its hurdles. “The dieting is probably the toughest part for me, but you eventually adapt,” Baillargeon confessed. A strict diet is crucial for competitors, playing a vital role in sculpting the desired look.
Baillargeon’s ultimate ambition is to earn her International Federation of Bodybuilding and Fitness (IFBB) certification. Achieving this esteemed credential would enable her to delve deeper into the sport and possibly turn her passion into a rewarding career. “Women’s bodybuilding can be quite costly,” she noted. “Once you get your certification, you can start earning money.”
The financial aspect of competing can indeed be overwhelming. Baillargeon shared that her custom bikini for the contest set her back $800, and when you add in travel, hotel stays, tanning, makeup, and other necessities, the total can easily surpass $4,000 per competition. Despite these expenses, Baillargeon remains resolute, driven by her goals and the potential opportunities that await.
When asked about her choice to showcase her physique, Baillargeon’s answer was both simple and profound: “If you work hard all your life to get a Lamborghini, would you just leave it in the garage?” This perspective perfectly captures her approach to fitness and self-expression.
Baillargeon is not just competing for herself; she aims to inspire others along the way. “I want to show other women that anything is achievable, to radiate confidence, and to encourage others to chase their dreams,” she expressed with passion.
As the competition date draws near, Baillargeon is laser-focused on her preparations, excited to step onto the stage and showcase her dedication and hard work. Through her inspiring journey, she hopes not only to achieve personal success but also to uplift and motivate others in her community to pursue their own fitness aspirations.