Melissa Pearo is as a Computer Scientist working on the Surface Surveillance Systems team (AJW-148). She’s worked at the Aeronautical Center since 1995, working with a team that provides software support for Airport Surface Detection Equipment (ASDE-X), a system that notifies air traffic controllers of potential conflicts on the airport surface. Like many employees, Melissa joined MMAC’s Aero-Fitness Center with an expectation of keeping moderately fit.
After frequent work outs she was encouraged to compete in bodybuilding because of her body structure. So in 2006, Melissa decided to try competing in the Figure division of the National Physique Committee (NPC). Her attempt was successful, as she quickly climbed through the local and National ranks. Soon thereafter, she earned the highly acclaimed IFBB (International Federation of Body Building) Pro card in just 10 months! She continued competing at the pro level through 2008 and then took a short break from the intense, competition scene. The short break quickly turned into 6 years, during which Melissa stopped all weight training and exercise.
By 2014, Melissa was ready to get back in the gym. Unfortunately, her desires were cut short due to a nerve impingement that required spinal fusion surgery. After a 6 month recovery, she was slowly able to work out again. In 2015, Melissa returned to the competition stage, but this time competing in a newly created Physique division. This competitive level is quite different than the Figure division, as Melissa would be performing not only quarter turns, but would strike 5 mandatory poses, perform a 60 second individual presentation, and then accomplish a 90 second posing routine choreographed to music.
Her goal for the competition was to not place last. She placed 7th among 16 competitors. Her next series of competitions were up and down, placing 3rd at the Europa Games in Dallas, then 6th place at the Europa Games in Phoenix, AZ. Filled with determination, the next two competitions proved to be her breakout moment, winning 2nd place at the Ultimate Warriors contest in San Diego, CA. Then at the Lou Ferrigno Legacy competition in Palm Springs, CA, she was part of a heartbreaking tie for 1st place, ultimately receiving 2nd place in the contest.
Faced with the option of taking time off for the holidays or pushing forward to train and diet for the first competition of 2016, Melissa opted for the later. On Feb 20th, Melissa won the 1st place medallion, along with a necklace, a $2000 check, and a Rolex watch as the grand prize. Winning the event, secured her a spot to compete at the 2016 Ms. Olympia in Las Vegas in the Women's Physique Division this September!
At 43 years old, Melissa enjoys helping others reach their fitness goals, but she also realizes the look for this sport is a bit of an extreme. "This is not the look the majority of people aspire to achieve, and that's ok", says Melissa. In reality, it’s extremely difficult if not impossible to maintain a contest stage look every day.” She explains, “There are many myths and false assumptions surrounding body building in general.” Melissa tries to dispel the falsehoods whenever possible and opts to provide sound advice to those interested in fitness through her Facebook page. Here are a few frequently asked questions that Melissa receives:
Q: How much time do you spend in the gym?
A: Five workouts per week, each 45-50 minutes. That's it! Whatever your fitness goal might be, unfortunately your diet is going to contribute to about 80% of it. Twenty percent is your workout/exercise program.
Q: How many calories do you eat?
A: Prior to a contest, usually 1,800 calories. And, YES I eat carbs! I usually have 120-150g of carbs each day. During non-contest times, I don't really track calories, but would guess it to be more around 2,500-3,000 calories a day.
Q: Do you follow a low carb diet, Atkins diet, South Beach diet, Paleo diet........
A: No! I eat according to my goals. I honestly don't know the specifics of any of the popular diets.
Q: What is your typical contest meal plan?
A: Six small meals a day. Aside from breakfast, which consists of oatmeal, 4 egg whites, & 2 whole eggs, all other meals consist of the following:
Q: How much cardio do you do?
A: Not a single minute in 8 years!
Q: How much do you bench press?
A: I have no idea, never done a bench press.
Q: What supplements do you take?
A: None! No pre-workout, no post-workout, no fat burners, no protein powders etc. I EAT food! A lot of food!
As a frequent visitor to MMAC’s Aero-Fitness Center, Melissa explains, "For anyone working at the MMAC, I highly recommend the Aero-Fitness Health Center. They have an excellent variety of equipment and have a very helpful staff to answer any questions.” Rich Burkholder, Director of the Aero-Fitness Health Center proudly explains, “We are very happy for her and excited about her upcoming competition on the National stage.” Congratulations Melissa and the MMAC Family is behind you all the way in preparation for your September competition!
