Allyson Mallah

Hometown: San Diego, CA Gig: Life coach Age: 27 Height: 5'3" Weight: 115 lb

How she got her start:

Despite being a sports enthusiast from a young age, Allyson Mallah was clueless when it came to nutrition. Her lack of clean eating know-how resulted in almost 30 extra pounds on her 5'3" frame. Several attempts to shed the weight got her nowhere, until she got serious about her goals, hired a trainer and signed up for a Figure show. “Changing my fitness and health habits has allowed me to take control over my life in the most positive way!”

Calling card:

With her yo-yo dieting days behind her, a newfound passion for competing and a burning desire to help others, Allyson made a life-changing decision: she resigned from her full-time corporate sales position to pursue a career as a life coach and work towards her Pro card. “I found my calling,” she says. “It is my mission to inspire as many individuals as I can.”

Coach’s advice:

Those who are new to fitness know how intimidating the gym floor can be, but Allyson says there’s nothing to fear. “Don’t let your mind play tricks on you and think that people are judging you. They aren’t. And it’s not about them anyway. It’s about you.”

What do you love most about Oxygen?

“I love that Oxygen has all of the fitness competitor gurus! They give us updates on the shows, the standings and the passion and fire behind those personalities and champions.”