Heartbreaker Dance and Fitness in Medicine Hat Alberta

Bikini Contest $449.00 (8 week session)

The Bikini Contest Phenomenon

This incredibly unique fitness experience was the brainchild of Marla Patterson, a long term fitness enthusiast and instructor who would see people make a commitment to fitness, only to drop a few weeks into their program. Having worked in gyms for almost 20 years, it was always the same scenario. People sign up and drop after a few weeks, when the results are not instant.

Patterson, who has an extensive background in fitness as well as business management, decided what people needed was an incentive to stick it out. The Bikini Contest was born from that idea. “I came up with the concept after seeing numbers drop off once again. I believe in fitness as a lifestyle, so I knew that if people could stick it out, they would be happy with the results. The question was- how do you get them to stick it out? I thought about it in terms of a reward, or an incentive. Managing a very successful retail store for a decade, I knew what people would respond to. They want a prize! My original concept was to take a group of 15 ladies, and offer the cash prize based largely on attendance. Even in this busy day and age, I had 15 women with impeccable attendance which goes to show that if you want it bad enough, you will make time do it.”
The first Bikini Contest was held in March of 2005, and it had amazing results. “I saw all these women becoming stronger, leaner, and more confident. The first contest had an individual with an 18lb weight loss, our record now stands at an amazing 23lbs,in just 8 weeks, with only a clean diet and FUN exercise! I saw women develop washboard abs, and I even helped the ladies learn how to run. Some of them went on to race in 5K, 10K and even a full marathon! Once the first Bikini Contest was over, and it was such a success, I was hooked. I announced that I was going to make fitness my life! I am dedicated to helping these women!” quotes Patterson.

That is where it stands today. “Every Bikini Contest that I do gets better and better. One year ago, there were 15 women and one instructor. I now have to run two time slots and to accommodate the demand. I have a former Bikini Contest member who has become a certified group fitness instructor that teaches the earlier time slot! We also have added a nutrition consultant and Registered Massage and Sports Therapist to the staff. It just keeps growing! There is just no end point to it.”

What is really unique about The Bikini Contest is the up close and personal aspect of it. Marla dedicates her life full time to help women achieve their goals. “I offer support for them 24/7. They can call or e-mail, and I will help them in whatever way possible.” states Patterson. Marla has been known to stop by houses and places of business, to bring lunch, snacks, offer support and even clean out your fridge. You just never know when she might pop up! “ I believe in ongoing support for my Bikini Contest ladies, as with ALL my members in general. When you sign up at Heartbreaker Dance and Fitness, you basically get me as a personal trainer!” says Patterson.

But beware, Patterson is famous for finding ways to make tough workouts even tougher! “I love all aspects of fitness, it started when I was a gymnast at a very young age, I have had the passion ever since! That is how I starting teaching in fitness, after I could no longer compete, I took up coaching, and now fitness is my life!” says Patterson.

Patterson, who has been teaching fitness for almost 20 years, is a glutton for punishment. She spends her spare time in all kinds of fitness workshops and camps. Everything from a fitness camp with former Miss Olympia Jen Hendershott, to Exotic Dance and Advanced Pole Dance instruction with a certified trainer, to Kickbox Instructor training in Vancouver. Patterson is a certified Group Fitness Instructor, an avid runner, a Basic Kickbox Instructor and more recently is enrolled in a Sport Nutrition Consulting school. “My members deserve the absolute best. I keep this mind with my approach to fitness, and the business. I spared no expense in the new Heartbreaker studio. It features a multi level location with over 2800 sq feet total. It has a specialty fitness flooring system worth over $18,000 and a chandelier in The Fantasy Lounge. I want women to feel like the studio is their getaway from everyday life. It’s a place where you can get fit and have fun in a comfortable, sexy, and motivating environment. “

The original Bikini Contest started at Heartbreaker Dance and Fitness by Marla Patterson has spread through town in various forms. “ A great idea is great idea.” quotes Patterson, “but you could never be better than the best.”

Heartbreaker Dance & Fitness
541- A 3rd St. S.E.(formerly Java Bytes)
Medicine Hat, AB
952-6191

Proud Sponsors of The Bikini Contest