charlotteandersonDevon & Somerset FRS's Charlotte Anderson has shown the benefits of firefighter fitness training by claiming second place in ‘Bodyfitness’ at the recent South West Classic Bodybuilding and Open Championships. 

The 'bodyfitness' category rewards a more natural look to the muscles than bodybuilding and is without any use of supplements. Girls are expected to have pageant appearances, so they are marked on looks and hair as well as muscle tone and size.

Charlotte explained: “I have been on a pre-competition diet for the last four months which means eating every three hours with a strict exercise regime of at least three hours a day.

"Typically I work two muscle groups at a time in a four day spilt. I train by myself which is hard but push bigger weights every time. I am hoping to work up to the next class of ‘physique’ but lean muscle will take years to obtain naturally but is worth the patience and dedication.

“My training goes hand in hand with being a retained firefighter at Shepton Mallet Fire Station, where I can be called out anytime in the day, evening or weekends, plus I also work for the local council, so I’m busy!

“I am not scared of weights or sweating. There is plenty of time to look girly when I get dressed up and go out, but when I’m at the gym it’s the same as being at the fire ground, it’s both sweat and stamina.”

The reatined firefighter will next be competing in The United Kingdom Bodybuilding & Fitness Federation British Championships on the 18 October in Harrogate - for more information on bodyfitnes visit www.bodyfitness-uk.com