Instagram: @phillipa_gill_pureelitepro
Categories: Bikini Fitness | Tattooed Fitness Model | Mums That Lift | International Model
Hello Phillipa, thank you for taking the time to share your journey with us. Let’s dive into your story.
What motivates you to compete in bodybuilding?
To prove to myself what I can achieve with my body and mind. Competing is going for the win, but also it’s you vs you—and I like that competition.
Can you share a significant moment from your fitness journey that stands out to you?
Losing 10 stone and coming to Pure Elite in lockdown 2020 and winning the transformation categories.
Who or what inspires you to keep pushing towards your goals?
My son. I want to show him that you can always achieve your goals. You just have to work hard to get there.
What advice would you give to someone aspiring to compete in bodybuilding and/or Pure Elite?
Just do it. Sign up to a coach and then sign up to Pure Elite. Even if you don’t place on the day, it is the most fun, enjoyable and rewarding day. It’s a day where every competitor celebrates each other.
What has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced in your fitness journey, and how did you overcome it?
Ignoring the food noise. As an ex-overweight person, I used to have an addiction to food, so I had to train my brain to ignore that and focus on the food that fuels me. Having a coach helped me through. Although it hasn’t gone (and never will), I’ve learnt to control it and never give in to my cravings.
Is this your first Pure Elite Pro Show?
Yes.
How does it feel preparing for your first time on the World stage?
Exciting. I have tunnel vision and I’m putting my all into making my Pro debut one to remember.
What has changed for you since earning your Pro Card — mentally, physically, or emotionally?
I’ve dialled in even more than before (and I didn’t think that was possible)—training, mentally, everything. If I want to be able to compete against the Pros I need to look like a Pro, and give myself a chance of winning that tiara.
What part of your journey are you most proud of?
Going from Transformation Winner 2020 to Pure Elite Pro 2025 with having a baby in between.
Give us a one-liner that sums up your mindset going into the World Championships.
Strive to win, not just compete.
What lessons or experiences from past Worlds are you bringing into this prep?
Everything. If I’d have asked my 18-stone self all those years ago if I’d be a Pro Athlete for Pure Elite I would have laughed at myself. Getting my Pro Card was everything—now to show the judges it was deserved.
What’s different about your prep or mindset this time around?
Worked on building muscle with a rebuild phase to come back improved in the areas given from my feedback.
What would you tell yourself before your first Pro World Championships?
You’ve earned this—now show them why.
What titles and placings at the World Championships do you currently have?
Transformation Category Winner, 2020.
What does being a Pure Elite Pro mean to you?
Everything. It means proving what I can achieve, mentally and physically, and inspiring others along the way.
What have you improved or changed since earning your Pro Card?
Focused on building more muscle and making improvements based on judges’ feedback.
What drives you to keep showing up at your best?
My goals. I keep my sights on what I want and that keeps me showing up.
What advice would you give to athletes aiming for their Pro Card?
Keep going. If you want it enough, work hard enough and bring that package to the stage, it will happen. It may not be on your first, second or third show—but keep going.
Any sponsors, coaches, or people you want to shout out?
My coaches Tom & Aston! Wouldn’t be here without them.
Any Pure Elite Pro you would like to compete against?
Maybe when I’ve built some more muscle haha. But seriously, any of the champions would be a pleasure to grace the stage with.
Thank you, Phillipa, for sharing your incredible transformation and mindset with us. We’ll be cheering you on as you step onto the World stage for your Pro debut.
Stay tuned for more interviews as we follow our Pros on the Road to the Worlds.