U.S. Air Force veteran and founder and chief wellness officer of FitFin Wellness
Follow her: @nikkivancliff
Some people may falsely believe that Bikini competitors don’t need to pack on muscle before they take the stage. Nikki Van Cliff, an NPC athlete, is here to dispel that myth.
“My journey began in earnest two years ago, and in that time, I’ve gained over 23 pounds of muscle while transforming both my body and mindset,” she says. Even better, her chosen sport has provided her with a level of confidence far greater than any other pursuit. “Competing has pushed me beyond what I thought my limits were, taught me discipline, and has given me a platform to inspire others through my transformation.” Ultimately, Nikki sees herself training for the Arnold Amateur and Masters Olympia—in due time, of course, once she secures her IFBB Pro Card.
Her time in the U.S. Air Force, where her daily training taught her the importance of “strength, resilience, and structure,” was extremely influential in the direction of her competition career. But that’s not where her interest truly began. When she was in her late teens, she competed in modelling contests, like those held by Hawaiian Tropic, and dreamed of landing in the pages of JET magazine. “Now, as a nationally qualified Bikini bodybuilder working toward the Masters Olympia, this is a full-circle moment, transforming a teenage dream into a reality fueled by grit, growth, and the science of fitness.”
Nikki’s love of exercise is the foundation of her business, FitFin Wellness, through which she brings its whole-body benefits to populations that may need a nudge in the right direction. In her words, her company makes “fitness accessible to seniors, veterans, and women navigating new life chapters, showing that strength belongs to everyone.” The key to her approach? Dropping a sick beat or two. “One way I [introduce exercise to] the seniors I train is through cardio drumming, combining rhythm and movement to make exercise fun, engaging, and healing. Music speaks to the soul, and when paired with fitness, it becomes a tool for empowerment, connection, and joy.”
Nikki’s mission to empower people from all walks of life is the fuel behind her mindset in the gym, at home, and in her work.
“My motivation comes from my family, my faith, and the communities I serve,” she explains. “I want my three sons to see that discipline and service create opportunities to rise above challenges. At the same time, my motivation comes from the desire to inspire others who may feel stuck, lost, or uncertain about their potential.”
With all she’s already accomplished, Nikki is well on her way to achieving just that—one drumbeat, and one bodybuilding pose, at a time.
Written by Rachel Debling, Editor in Chief
Photo by Howiebmediagroup.com
