Dredge is ready to rock it on big stage
WHEN Cindy Dredge decided to take her fitness to another level, she never dreamed that it would lead to multiple body building competitions last year or even winning.
The 32-year-old was first introduced to bodybuilding by her “big” brother Mark, 40, who entered his first show in 2010. However, it was only last year that she started her own journey into the sport.
“In the beginning when I decided to focus on my fitness and start competing, I found it difficult to balance out my social life and training commitments. Especially during competition preparation, I isolated myself from people because of dieting and not wanting the influence and temptation,” said the athlete.
She added that once it became her lifestyle it became easier. “You do need to give your body a ‘rest’ at some stage. During offseason, I’m not as strict with my diet as I would be while prepping for a competition,” she said.
In August last year, Dredge placed second at the IFBB Buffalo City provincial show competition, in the Beach Bikini Division. The confidence boost was just what she needed for the following month, when she entered the Weider Nutrition IFBB SA Champs in Johannesburg, where she placed sixth in the Bikini Fitness Division.
“I have fallen in love with the sport. I love the dedication and discipline one needs to put in to get the results. I love seeing the changes our bodies are capable of, with hard work and clean eating. Being involved in fitness and comps, broadens your social networking. I have met wonderful and inspiring people,” said Dredge.
The single bodybuilder has a BA psychology degree and a post graduate certificate in education through Unisa.
She is currently a Grade R educator at Dale College boys primary school in King Williams Town and has been teaching there for eight years.
During her formative, as well as tertiary years at school, she played hockey and represented Border at numerous inter-provincial tournaments. Three years ago she suffered a severe leg injury that needed to be surgically repaired which has taken her out of the game.
This hasn’t stopped the fitness fanatic from pursuing her goals or dreams. If anything, it has renewed her vigour.
“I don’t have a trainer, but I do follow fitness pages and athletes who give me guidelines and ideas for training … I like the idea of being classified as a bodybuilder. It’s not for everyone, though. It’s a personal preference. Some girls like the skinny look, I prefer the stronger more muscular look,” she explained.
Dredge credited Mark for his influence, advice and motivation during her bodybuilding journey. The siblings share the same passion, irrespective of different routines.
“I work 45 minutes out of East London, so I wake up every morning at 4.15. I’m at the gym by 4.45am and train for 45-60 minutes. Depending on my coaching commitments at school, I do try to squeeze in a light cardio and sauna session in the afternoons,” she added.
Dredge has been invited to participate in the Arnold Classic in 2017, which she is presently working on attending. Another goal she has is to feature in a fitness magazine in the near future.
Follow Cindy Dredge on Instagram dredge83, Twitter: @dredge83 or me on Twitter: @SheetalCross.