Boston's own Linda McLaughlin is one of the first cross-sport athletes to continue competing in both disciplines, and with her recent successes at the national level, she is poised to become the Bo Jackson of the fitness and bodybuilding world.

Says McLaughlin of her beginnings, "I began weight training in high school at the age of 15. My track coach saw my potential to compete on a national level with appropriate training. I am thankful to him for his persistance!"

That led to a track scholarship in college, where McLaughlin's competitive nature saw her enter her first bodybuilding show in 1991.

"The basic bodybuliding posing didn't appeal to me, so I tried an aerobic competition, (but was) still unsatisfied. It wasn't until 1996 when I saw a fitness competition on tv and realized that fitness would be a great avenue to showcase more of my athletic skills. My first competition was heartbreaking because I was penalized heavily for being too muscular. I tried another organization, and the same thing happened. This drove me right back to bodybuilding, where I won the ANBC Nationals in late 1996.

"I still admired the muscular fitness physiques in the magazines, and decided to try again in 1997 and 1998. I enjoy the fitness more because I am able to express myself and entertain. The bodybuilding is a little more restrictive, yet still enjoyable"

Although many competitors switch from one sport to the other because of differences in required muscularity levels, many also site drug use.

"I am 100% drug free for life, and very proud of it. I have been blessed with great genetics, and have always worked to my maximum potential," says McLaughlin.

As a competitor in both sports, she is exposed to the different perspectives people bring to the respective athletes (fitness vs. bodybuiding). And although there are differences in the physiques on stage, the basics are still the same, requiring the development of a muscular physique, among other things.

"It is unfortunate that others do not seem to be able to appreciate and respect hard work and dedication through natural dieting and training. A lot of organizations penalize women for being overly muscular, but for some of us that are naturally muscular this is very unfair. It would be like penalizing all women with flat feet (which by the way I also have!)," McLaughlin states emphatically and with a hint of sarcasm, (familiar to those who know her enthusiastic personality).

And she is not just against the illicit drugs that are in the sport, but many others as well.

"I am 100% against any type of drug use be it steroids, diuretics, or any other recreational drugs. I believe that the true athlete is one that can accomplish their goals naturally. I am all for drug testing for fitness athletes. This will level the playing field for all competitors, leaving any and all speculations behind."

That said, McLaughlin is still agressively pursuing her goals within and outside the competitive arena. "Honestly, I would love to earn my pro card in 1999, and someday have my own fitness program. My job as an exercise physiologist and lifestyle counselor allows me to reach out and share my knowledge and energy with everyday people. My dream is to be able to share myself with a greater population through the media."

Enthusiastic from the start

"When I first graduated from college I worked on Norwegian Cruise Lines as the fitness director. As cruise staff we had to wear many hats including a stint in the slapstick comedy show, The Roaring 20's. Basically whenever you were not in your cabin sleeping, you were 'on duty.' It was my job to maintain a certain level of energy all day long - just like being 'on stage' all day long!"

Anyone who was at the Nationals saw her tremendous routine to the tune of Van Halen's Hot for Teacher, can appreciate her tremendous stage presence and amazing routine.

"I think it is important to create a routine that you can feel come from the inside! I choose music that moves, and will make people watching want to tap their toes! The themes are a collaboration of effort by my choreographer, Cathy Savage, my music man, Todd Ganci, and myself. I will admit that coming up with a new routine this year to top last years' was tough, but I will rock the house with this one," McLaughlin promises.

Although she does not compete throughout the year, McLaughlin runs 6-8 miles a day, and weight trains six days a week, while rollerblading in the summer as well. Her training style is different from that of a strict bodybuilder's or fitness competitor's would be.

"I haven't lifted for max weight in years. I have learned to cross-train and condition my muscles so as to avoid excess stress on the joints. I usually do three sets of 8-12 repetitions per set. These are the weights I typically use for sets:

• Bench: 155lbs
  
• Squats: (I haven't squatted in over a year, but I usually go 285 for sets)
  
• Shoulder presses: 45 lb. dumbells
  
• Bicep curls: 35 lb. dumbells
  
• Dips/pull-ups: Bodyweight dips and pull ups (sets of 12)

The personable McLaughlin has an infectiously positive attitude, and is a practical joker to boot.

"I really enjoy spending time with friends. I am something of a clown. I love making people laugh (and) also enjoy cooking. I am especially creative with the basic diet foods!"

As far as her family is concerned, they are learning to accept her.

"My parents are very old fashioned, and they saw me being picked on endlessly when I was a child for having all of these muscles, so they find it difficult to understand why I would want more attention now. Little did I know back then that these muscles would actually be appreciated!"

Her friends, on the other hand, love it.

"I spend a lot of time with my family and friends. Usually doing something that involves physical activity: walking, biking, boating, skiing, skating. And I do like to go out dancing every now and then; Boston has a pretty good night life," she adds.

"I have this pied piper effect at the gym - an energy and motivation that is completely contagious. I have inspired many people to become more serious about their exercise programs!

And anyone who has spoken with McLaughlin knows just how contagious she can be.

As far as the near future is concerned, she is looking forward to putting together her next routine.

"I always have a blast with Cathy and Todd, endless giggle-fests, and major creativity! Like I mentioned before, I would like to earn my pro card in 1999, do a little fitness modeling, and hopefully work toward my own fitness program!"

And would that take her outside of Boston?

"Never!! I love New England. I love the change of season, the weather, and most importantly, my family is here."