Accomplished member of #TeamTrifocus, Manuela Incendiario is a professional fitness trainer as well as a nutritional, online and vegan coach. We catch up with Manuela to find out more about her vegan lifestyle as well as her journey so far with Trifocus Fitness Academy.
Manuela’s Basic Stats:
Age: 37
Height: 1.75m
Weight: 64kg
Occupation/Profession: Professional personal trainer at Virgin Active Bryanston, online trainer and nutritional coach, owner of #VeganGirl Transformations, owner of Flawless Cosmetics and international permanent make-up artist.
What Is Your Background in The Fitness Industry?
As a young girl, I was diagnosed as hyperactive. My mom refused to let me take any prescription medication. She decided to put me in as many sports as possible to allow me to use up any excess energy. During my younger years, I played every sport imaginable. Through this I have discovered my biggest passion – physical fitness. I train daily not only to keep my body in check but also to keep my mind focused.
My daily exercise routine includes:
- Working out at the gym,
- Rock climbing,
- Kick-boxing, and
- Bikram and/or Vinyasa Yoga.
I also studied a certification in Exercise Science as well as Precision Nutrition Level 1 Nutrition.
As Part Of #TeamTrifocus, How Has Yoga Helped You and Why Do You Love It So Much?
I regard Yoga as a lifelong mind-body practice. After every Yoga class, I feel more relaxed and mindful.
Tell Us More About Veganism. Why Did You Decide to Go Vegan? What Are the Benefits and/or Challenges of This Lifestyle?
When I competed in fitness competitions, I was strictly pescaterian. My only reason for keeping animal flesh in my diet was that I was worried about having enough protein. My exciting transition into veganism started one and a half years ago when I wanted to cleanse my body and eat only food that can be easily processed.
What Do Vegans Eat?
A vegan diet includes grains, legumes, vegetables and fruits. The great thing is that many vegan versions of familiar foods are available from the shops, for example vegan hot dogs, ice cream, cheese and mayonnaise.
Tell Us More About the Supplement and Nutritional Aspect of Veganism
Vegans will need to take some or all of the following supplements:
- Vitamin B12,
- Vitamin D,
- Iodine,
- Calcium,
- Iron,
- DHA.
How Has #TeamTrifocus Advanced Your Career?
Trifocus Fitness Academy has an incredible online learning platform. This allows me to further my studies at my leisure.
Which Trifocus Fitness Courses Did You Do?
I studied the following through Trifocus Fitness Academy:
- Pilates Certification,
- Bootcamp Course, and
- Exercise and Pregnancy Course.
I am currently busy with the Life Coaching Certification.
What Is Your Favourite Exercise and Why?
I believe that pull-ups are one of the most important exercises in my exercise routine. These moves condition all the muscles of the back, upper body and core.
What Is Your Favourite Body Part to Train?
I love keeping my legs, bum and core in shape. I train these two to three times a week.
What Is Your Preferred Type of Exercise/Training?
I’m currently working with a rock-climbing coach. I love the stability and skill-enhancing protocol that comes with this type of training.
How Do You Stay in Shape?
I stay active by gyming, rock climbing, kickboxing, attending Bikram and/or Vinyasa Yoga classes.
Do You Have Any Advice for Aspiring Fitness Models and People Wanting to Go Vegan?
I would encourage that every single person becomes more conscious of every lifestyle choice they make. Macronutrients are the same whether they are plant or animal based. A vegan diet involves just as much thought and planning as any other nutrition regime. I encourage everyone wanting to go vegan to take the plunge – there are plenty of protein substitutes.
What Is the Most Valuable Knowledge You Have Learned from Your Trifocus Fitness Academy Fitness Courses?
I love the fact that Trifocus is so hands-on with their students and #TeamTrifocus. From the excellent course material and instructors, you get an amazing foundation in learning. This enables me to offer the absolute best to my clients.
Which Trifocus Fitness Academy Fitness Course/Courses Would You Recommend to Others? Why Is This?
I loved the three-day Bootcamp Course. It was intense and calorie busting. This is exactly what my clients need in order for them to see optimal results.
What Advice Do You Have for Newbies Just Embarking On Their Journey in The Fitness Industry?
Invest in education and never stop learning. Make your clients’ health and wellness a priority over everything else.
Manuela – and her #TeamTrifocus teammates – are always very happy to show us hwo to perform certain exercises. Watch Manuela show us how to perform tricep kick backs!
How To Peform Tricep Kickbacks With Dumbbells
- Stand up straight on the right-hand side of the weight bench. Hold a dumbbell in your right hand with your palm facing in.
- Place your left leg and hand on top of the bench.
- Lean forward at your hips until your upper body is at a 45-degree angle to the floor.
- Bend your right elbow so your upper arm is parallel to the floor. Remember that your forearm must be perpendicular to it. Your palm must face inwards. Keep your elbow close to the waist.
Tricep Kickbacks With Dumbbells Movement
- Extend your elbow until your arm is fully extended behind you.
- Flex your triceps for a second at the top of the movement. After this return to your starting position.
- Perform as many reps for the results you want to achieve.
Remember that you can perform the same exercise in a standing position. If you decide to do this, flex your knees and extend your tail bone. Alternatively, you can also perform this exercise on a cable pulley machine.
Tricep Kickbacks With Dumbbells Safety Tips
- Monitor your scapulae and elbows.
- Keep your abdominals engaged.
- Keep your elbows at your sides.
- Spot at the dumbbell