I chat with Jen Widerstrom, a star from the new reboot of American Gladiators.
It’s my second 11 points interview! This time, I was able to get some time with Jennifer Widerstrom, who’s Phoenix on the new American Gladiators on NBC.
Enjoy!
1 | Were you a fan of American Gladiators growing up?
Of course I was a fan! Still love the original series and watch reruns on ESPN Classic to this day. I loved the Rings and Breakthrough and Conquer; Zap and Nitro were my favs for sure. Since I became a gladiator myself, I met Nitro and Ice!
2 | How’d you end up on the new American Gladiators… and end up as the gladiator with pink hair?
They pursued me after coming across some of my fitness modeling shots. My producers suggested the pink hair and I was all about it. When it came down to it that really helped me stand out and was a really smart choice on their part.
3 | When you’re in peak fitness shape… and a Gladiator… is it hard to date? Did fans ever do anything crazy to get your attention?
I have no real preference physically on the men I date. I of course prefer someone that shares a more active lifestyle like myself but when it comes down to it 24/7 abs are for the birds… I’m way more into chemistry and comedy.
As for the fans… I’d have to say that the very flattering marriage requests are attention getters every time.
4 | What Gladiator events were you best and worst at?
My best events were Hang Tough and Sideswipe… and I wouldn’t say I have any “weak” events but Powerball was definitely a little more challenging for me… it was like trying to catch a chicken!!
5 | OK, so you didn’t have any weak events… what was your biggest challenge at American Gladiators?
There were some LONG days when you’d do anything for a slice of Chicago-style pizza… not the best food option given our uniforms didn’t leave much room for imagination.
6 | Have you ever been in an actual fight… and if you got into one now, do you think your Gladiator training would help you out?
I’m lucky to report that no, I have not been in a real fight ever. Make love not war! Right?
7 | Before Gladiators I saw that you competed in a bodybuilding competition. The rep of female bodybuilders is that they… well… look kinda masculine. How did you manage that?
Well to start, I’ve never been a bodybuilder, but did participate in one figure competition placing first at the Midwest Ironman Classic. Keeping that feminine swagger is a fine line but becomes a choice for each individual of how far you want to go with your look.
Personally, I still train hard just not heavy, incorporating way more running and core stability work. Beyond that it’s always playing up my lady curves and never, under any circumstance, leaving the house without rockin’ a little mascara and lippie.
8 | How did you get so into physical fitness that you realized “Hey, this could be a career”?
I was always in sports as a kid and both my parents fostered/supported my success in athletics, good nutrition, and always protecting my joints. That base combined with passion for a healthy lifestyle, involving mind, body, spirit, and here I am!
9 | But seriously, when’s the last time you ate fast food? Ever?
Oh yeah. A few nights ago I enjoyed my first In-N-Out cheeseburger. Animal style.
10 | Is American Gladiators coming back? Any word from NBC?
A few networks have shown interest on picking up the show but nothing official just yet… NBC has a bit more time before they have to make a decision.
11 | So when you’re not a gladiator, what are you up to?
Well I’m WAY into movies of all genres and definitely love to do outdoorsy stuff. Hiking, ice-fishing, everything! I’m in the process of shooting a few pilots but also getting into lots of philanthropic projects… most recently I’ve decided to head to Nairobi and Malawi to work with orphanages in Africa this June.
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To keep up on Jennifer’s projects, appearances and more, check out her blog at http://www.team-jennifer.com.
