YOU would never believe Jo Barrett was described as obese just seven years ago.
Since the birth her third son, she wanted to make a change – and a dramatic one at that.
The 38-year-old, from Taunton, has now built a career as a personal trainer and has enjoyed success as a bodybuilder.
“I was told I was obese and that my Body Mass Index was too high after my third son and desperately wanted to make some massive lifestyle changes,” said Jo, who runs MamaFitness.
“It was then I embarked on losing the excess baby weight and dropped over six stone over a two-year period.”
Since then, Jo, who is mother to Finlay, 10, Jack, eight, and Theo, seven, has been working on gaining lean muscle – and the hard work is paying off.
Jo, who retrained as a personal trainer after leaving a administration management role, said: “The fitness industry is a massive life passion of mine and I have competed in the Pole Dancing UK Amateur Championships in the past and also cross fit competitions both locally and nationally.”
She started training competitively as a bodybuilder in January this year and trains out of BodyWorld Gym, in Venture Way, Taunton. Jo said this gym has been open for just over a year and already has a “healthy and supportive community of bodybuilders”.
Jo added: “This gym offers something for everyone, no matter what their strength or fitness goals.”
Earlier this year Jo came third in two regional qualifier competitions in the Athletic Figure Category at the PCA North West 2017 and the NABBA West 2017.
Her third place at the NABBA qualifier gained her a place at the British finals in June which she described as an “amazing experience.”
Jo then decided to take a few months out of competition to try and build a better physique and entered The Natural Physique Association South West qualifier on Sunday, October 15 at The Brewhouse Theatre, in Taunton.
Jo with Jack, Finlay and Theo
She added: “I came away as the South West Champion with an invitation to the NPA British Championships 2017 which was held on Saturday, October 28.
“I was up against six athletes. It was an extremely emotional time for me after months of gruelling prep.
“I was ecstatic to come home as the British champion, taking first place and a prestigious trophy takes pride of place on my mantlepiece at home. My three boys are very proud of me.”
Jo will take a break over the winter and plan her goals for 2018 with the support of Jane Carter, a professional female bodybuilder who has also claimed titles.
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