[Unable to locally host - Direct Link 4 Security]:https://cdn-ami-drupal.heartyhostin...1109_0.jpg?itok=i8eeEl4p×tamp=1545150581
Per Bernal / M+F Magazine
Through the summer, 2015 and 2016 Figure Olympia champion Latorya Watts looked to be on track for this year’s title tilt on Sept. 14 and 15. Then, on Sept. 1, a troubling post hit her Instagram page: “Due to a medical concern I’ve dealt with for some time, I will take a step back to do what’s best for ME and really focus on MY HEALTH. This decision hasn’t been easy but I’m beyond grateful for the support from loved ones, sponsors, my @ifbb_pro_league family and the @mrolympiallc team.”
Just like that, Watts was out of the contest. What happened? We checked in with the 38-year-old for an update on her condition, and what fans can expect from her next.
[RELATED1]
M&F: What was the health issue that forced you to drop out of the O?
Watts: I have benign uterine tumors many know as fibroids. I was diagnosed with this condition in 2008. I took most of the year off to give my body the rest it needed, so I was going after this prep like never before. During prep, my symptoms—abnormal bleeding and sometimes pressure in my pelvis—weren’t going away like they usually do, so I knew something was off. I was mentally thrown off my game. I will be moving forward and having surgery to have them removed.
You’ve said that you plan on being back to competition next year. Are you cleared now to train and diet?
Well, I am planning for surgery, and it will be somewhat invasive. I’m hoping for a speedy recovery to train and be at my full potential to compete next season. No confirmed shows as of now. Just focusing on overall health and happiness.
Are there important lessons on health that you’d like to share with other aspiring athletes from this experience?
Yes—listen to your body. Nothing should ever come before your health. It’s OK to slow down the process. It’s OK to take a step back. You’ll come back stronger.
Beyond the stage, what are your hopes and plans heading into 2019?
Aspire to inspire. If I can continue to motivate and be a role model for anyone with hopes and dreams to be the best at their craft, it makes all the hard work and sacrifice worth it.
Latorya Watts
Continue reading...
Per Bernal / M+F Magazine
Through the summer, 2015 and 2016 Figure Olympia champion Latorya Watts looked to be on track for this year’s title tilt on Sept. 14 and 15. Then, on Sept. 1, a troubling post hit her Instagram page: “Due to a medical concern I’ve dealt with for some time, I will take a step back to do what’s best for ME and really focus on MY HEALTH. This decision hasn’t been easy but I’m beyond grateful for the support from loved ones, sponsors, my @ifbb_pro_league family and the @mrolympiallc team.”
Just like that, Watts was out of the contest. What happened? We checked in with the 38-year-old for an update on her condition, and what fans can expect from her next.
[RELATED1]
M&F: What was the health issue that forced you to drop out of the O?
Watts: I have benign uterine tumors many know as fibroids. I was diagnosed with this condition in 2008. I took most of the year off to give my body the rest it needed, so I was going after this prep like never before. During prep, my symptoms—abnormal bleeding and sometimes pressure in my pelvis—weren’t going away like they usually do, so I knew something was off. I was mentally thrown off my game. I will be moving forward and having surgery to have them removed.
You’ve said that you plan on being back to competition next year. Are you cleared now to train and diet?
Well, I am planning for surgery, and it will be somewhat invasive. I’m hoping for a speedy recovery to train and be at my full potential to compete next season. No confirmed shows as of now. Just focusing on overall health and happiness.
Are there important lessons on health that you’d like to share with other aspiring athletes from this experience?
Yes—listen to your body. Nothing should ever come before your health. It’s OK to slow down the process. It’s OK to take a step back. You’ll come back stronger.
Beyond the stage, what are your hopes and plans heading into 2019?
Aspire to inspire. If I can continue to motivate and be a role model for anyone with hopes and dreams to be the best at their craft, it makes all the hard work and sacrifice worth it.
Latorya Watts
- Birth Date: May 28, 1980
- Height: 5'6"
- Contest Weight: 140 lbs
- Residence: Las Vegas, NV
- For Posing/Consulting Inquiries: teamwatts15@gmail.com
- Instagram: @latoryawatts
Continue reading...
