Pure Elite: Welcome, Susan! Can you tell us what categories you compete in?
Susan Poeder: I compete in International Model, Bikini, Bikini Tattoo and Bikini Wellness.
Pure Elite: What motivates you to compete in bodybuilding?
Susan Poeder: I compete to push myself beyond the ordinary and challenge my potential. My first competition in April was about embracing my femininity and becoming fully comfortable in my body. November will focus more on bodybuilding itself, improving my discipline and consistency in prep.
Pure Elite: Can you share a significant moment from your fitness journey that stands out to you?
Susan Poeder: About two years ago, I was cast to perform workouts for Fitbit in Los Angeles. Being able to work with a Hollywood production team was a dream come true, and I remember crying tears of joy on the last night. That experience made me feel so alive and inspired me to start competing.
Pure Elite: Who or what inspires you to keep pushing towards your goals?
Susan Poeder: I'm inspired by people like Chris Hemsworth and Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson, who use their discipline in the gym to serve a bigger purpose. They consciously put themselves through challenges to become better people, partners, and parents. When I don’t feel like working out, I visualize what they would do.
Pure Elite: What advice would you give to someone aspiring to compete in bodybuilding or with Pure Elite?
Susan Poeder: Take your time to find the right coach and federation. If a coach doesn’t feel like the right fit, that’s okay. You’ll be sharing a lot of tough moments with your coach, so comfort is key. I initially planned to compete with a different federation but ended up with Pure Elite, where the community is very welcoming to first-timers.
Pure Elite: What has been the biggest challenge you've faced in your fitness journey, and how did you overcome it?
Susan Poeder: A lower back injury that prevented me from training was both physically and mentally challenging, leading to unwanted weight gain. With the help of a good performance coach, I turned a negative experience into an enlightening one. Focusing on small wins and practicing gratitude helped me stay positive.
Pure Elite: Is this your first Pure Elite Pro Show?
Susan Poeder: No, it’s not.
Pure Elite: Why did you choose to compete with Pure Elite?
Susan Poeder: I wanted a federation that allows creativity in performance. I love seeing the variety of bikinis and poses, as it brings so much personality to the stage. Working with a bikini designer and posing coach to bring your best to the stage is unmatched at Pure Elite.
Pure Elite: What has been the highlight of your experience competing with Pure Elite so far?
Susan Poeder: Representing my country and winning first place in International Model, plus earning a Pro card in my first competition ever, was a dream come true.
Pure Elite: How would you describe the community and support you’ve experienced with Pure Elite?
Susan Poeder: It feels like coming home, especially for female athletes. The community is warm and welcoming, and I never felt alone, even when my coach couldn’t be there. Everyone helps each other out backstage, and the focus is on enjoying the experience together.
Pure Elite: What are you most looking forward to at this year’s World Championships?
Susan Poeder: I'm excited to meet new international athletes and find new inspiration to keep going!
Pure Elite: What would you say to someone considering competing at Pure Elite?
Susan Poeder: You won’t regret it! Get signed up today.
Pure Elite: Is there any Pure Elite Pro you would like to compete against?
Susan Poeder: I've been following @bekinibody for a long time and find her so relatable; I can’t wait to meet her. I also hope to see International Model champion @georgxmorris back on stage and hope to match her energy in November.
Pure Elite: Is there anything else you’d like to share with us, or a specific quote you would like us to use?
Susan Poeder: "The magic happens in the work you are avoiding." This is my mantra. Prep has taught me so much about discipline and the freedom that comes from committing to the work that needs to be done.
Follow Susan Poeder's journey on Instagram @susanpoeder as she prepares to compete at this year’s Pro/Am World Championships on 9th November.