Bikini fitness starlet Marta Mila began last year as an unknown junior and ended it as a national champion and a successful international competitor.

Her domestic year was book-ended by victories in the juniors and the over-163 cm height class at the UK Nationals in April and with first place in the juniors and second place in her height class at the British Championships in October.

Marta also achieved some fantastic results overseas, including second in the juniors and fourth in her height class at the Arnold Classic Europe in Spain, third at the Junior World Championships in Romania and fourth in the World Championships in France.

Her superb year marked her down as an incredible prospect – and highlighted the opportunities that exist at home and abroad in the IFBB.

Marta Mila

HEIGHT: 170cm / 5 ft 5

CONTEST WEIGHT: 54 kg / 119 lbs

CONTEST HIGHLIGHTS: 2017 UKBFF British Junior Bikini Fitness 1st place; 2017 UK Nationals Junior Bikini Fitness 1st place; 2017 UK Nationals Bikini Fitness Over-163cm 1st place.

AMBITION: To win IFBB contests and get an IFBB Elite Pro card.

SPONSOR: Sparkle Bikini and Showgirl Fitness.

How did you get into bodybuilding?

I've always been active and sporty. When I was young I used to dance when I moved to England I joined my local gym and was introduced to bodybuilding. After one year I started to notice my body shape changed a lot. I looked at myself in the mirror and thought that I could do so much more so I decided to start bikini fitness competitions.

When did you move to the UK?

Four years ago. I came for a holiday to improve my English and fell in love with the culture and people.

How does the UK bodybuilding scene compare with Poland's?

In Poland, bodybuilding is more popular and is getting busier every year with more and more people competing. There are a lot of sponsors looking for fresh faces to represent their brands and competitors get big followings on social media etc. In the UK, although thousands of people compete every year it’s not such a recognised sport and it has a smaller following. However, competing in the UK is a great opportunity and opens a lot of gates. I’m really happy to be part of the UKBFF family. They offer great support and believe in new competitors.

What was it like to become a British champion?

It’s a feeling I can’t really even describe. It’s incredible to be up there and to know that’s all my hard work has paid off. I will never forget those moments.

Tell us about your experience of competing overseas?

I feel so lucky to have had the opportunity to travel to different countries doing what I love. I've met so many inspiring people along the way and I'm always learning. Every time is a new experience and I always come home with a big smile and unforgettable memories.

What are your competition plans for 2018?

Europeans, Arnolds and the Worlds hopefully. Time will tell!

What changes do you plan to make to your physique?

I’m my own worst critic and always think there are areas I can improve. As a woman, I always strive to have the perfect glutes and legs.

Describe a good glute workout

All you need is a resistance band. I like to do a glute activation circuit. The moves can be used as part of a great warm-up or as a workout of their own. My favourite exercises for glutes are hip raises and donkey kickbacks.

What do you do for cardio?

Walking incline treadmill or Stairmaster.

What do you eat in a typical day when dieting?

I split my macros into six meals so I eat a meal about every two-and-a-half to three hours. I like to eat that often so I'm never hungry. Clean foods include fish, chicken, lean red meat, eggs, low-fat dairy products, sweet potatoes, brown rice, whole-wheat bread, oatmeal and fruit.