HEF: What activities did you first start out with?
LM: I have been active all my life. I was a competitive gymnast up thru college, then I earned a gymnastics scholarship at Michigan State. During Grad School I earned a Graduate Assistantship and taught health and wellness courses. I also taught many styles of aerobic classes. I did my first competition in 1992 and the girl who won did 2 seconds of her routine and ran off. She had been to Nationals before and they just gave the show to her!! I was a bit sour after that and thought fitness was silly. Then after living in Atlanta for a few years, my dance coach talked me in to competing again. I competed in the NPC since I have always had a muscular physique, and ended up winning the 1998 Nationals and earning my pro card. I have since competed in 16 Pro shows.

HEF: What are your career highlights?
LM: I suppose being invited to the Arnold Classic four years in a row is quite an accomplishment. I also was thrilled when I qualified and competed in the 2001 Fitness Olympia.

HEF: What is your long-term goal in fitness?
LM: I would like to compete in one or two more Fitness Olympia's and then continue promoting the sport through my clothing line, Mak Attack Fitness Wear, by doing choreography and helping new girls get started. I would like to be around in fitness like Cory Everson is in bodybuilding.

HEF: Who was/is your fitness inspiration?
LM: I didn't really start paying attention to fitness until 1997, and at that time the routines were not nearly as strong as they are now. I think I have always favored strong routine athletes, like Carol Semple, and Kelly Ryan, and Jen Hendershott. I think there are some ladies that have made tremendous improvements like Timea Majorova, and Lena Johanssen. They have always had beautiful physiques.

HEF: What is your favorite binge-out treat?
LM: Anything with chocolate in it, or if I am really wild and crazy pizza! But there is nothing like good french fries, crispy on the outside and soft and warm on the inside!!

HEF: Any final comments?
LM: I have enjoyed all my moments on the competitive stage. I know I am going to be limited in competitions this year, as I am booking more guest appearances and promoting the clothing line. I want to thank all my friends and fans for their continued support.

Vital Stats:
Height: 5'7" Weight: 135

To contact Laura, visit Laura Mak, high quality fitness wear and a whole lot more.