Welcome!  I am glad you decided to come by and learn more about me and what I have to offer!
How did I get here some of you may ask? Well, just like with everything in life, there is a story behind it  I will try to give you guys the short version. 
I was raised in a very gendered home -- boys did "boy" things, and girls did "girly" things.  I wasn't necessarily considered a "tomboy" but I sure did defy those gender roles quite often while causing my parents their share of headaches.  Being that my parents wanted me to model the typical gender roles, participating in sports was definitely out of the question for me.  I remember in high school dealing with a lot of drama because I joined the track team against my parents' wishes.  It wasn't ideal for them to watch their fragile, small-framed daughter who's supposed to be hitting the books and learning new cooking recipes to be sprinting in very short shorts in front of a crowd.  They were horrified!
I guess the rush I got from running, and the amazing capabilities of what a human body can accomplish when you put your mind to it is what sparked my interest in lifting weights.  Our track coach would have us do a few sets in the weight room after practice and for me, it was love at first sight.  I was one of the few girls in the track team that really enjoyed hitting the weight room and I always looked forward to it.  In addition to lifting weights after track practice, I became very close to my uncle, who to this day has an undying addiction to fitness, weight lifting and a healthy lifestyle. His ways really rubbed off on me and I credit him for being my number one inspiration for being in the sport. 
Once in college and with enough freedom, I was able to explore my athletic abilities and become more proactive about it. I took advantage of the many facilities at the university, joined several intramural volleyball teams (my other love) and of course, hitting the weight room on a regular basis.  At first I did not think much of the fact that I was usually one of the few women that were in the man-filled, often intimidating weight room, but it did not take me long to realize that I was one of a kind!  Lifting weights didn't scare me.  It inspired me.  It made me feel stronger and it allowed me to connect physically and spiritually with my own body.  It has been several years and I still feel the same way about weight training.  I went from wanting to lose a few pounds after giving birth to my second child, to completely transforming my body, to ultimately what you see today: the drive and discipline to compete and bring to the stage a package that I am completely happy and comfortable withwith and that is desirable to the judges. 
I have gained a tremendous amount of experience over the years as a competitor, all of which include plenty of research, attending and judging  events, and ultimately working with my very own clients to help them achieve their goals.
In 2011 I finally launched my own consulting business - SWEETCAPRI FITNESS, WELLNESS AND LIFESTYLE Consulting Services. My hope is to be able to share my knowledge and experiences as an educator, a fitness competitor, and a mother with those who are ready to reach their ultimate fitness, health and lifestyle goals! I apply several of the theories and practices used in Social Justice Education such as active listening, raising consciousness of the self and others, being mindful of your personal experiences, as well as many of the social issues that affect us individually and collectively as members of our society.  I believe that reaching our personal goals extends far beyond physical fit and well being, but also your emotional and mental wellness and making lasting lifestyle changes to be able to succeed and live a happy, fulfilled and balanced life! 

Much love!

 Amanda Genao Cumberbatch, M.Ed.