The face of Wellness
The Wellness division has gained immense popularity since its introduction to the IFBB Pro League in 2020, largely due to its leading figure, Francielle Mattos. This division is celebrated for showcasing a balance of muscularity and femininity, focusing primarily on the lower body. Competitors in the Wellness division are judged on their overall shape, symmetry, and muscle tone, with a particular emphasis on glutes, thighs, and hamstrings. This unique focus has attracted many athletes who naturally possess more developed lower bodies, offering a platform where they can shine.
What is the Wellness Division?
The Wellness division was introduced to provide a competitive stage for women with a particular body type: one that is more naturally muscular in the lower body. This division differs from Bikini, which emphasizes a more streamlined and balanced physique, and Figure, which requires more upper body development.
Competitors in the Wellness division are judged on several criteria:
- Muscularity: The lower body, including glutes, thighs, and hamstrings, should have a higher degree of muscularity compared to the upper body.
- Symmetry and Proportion: The physique should have a balanced and proportional look, with well-defined curves and lines.
- Conditioning: Athletes should display a healthy level of body fat, with muscle definition being visible without extreme leanness.
- Stage Presence and Presentation: Competitors must exude confidence and poise, presenting their physiques in a way that highlights their strengths.
The introduction of the Wellness division has been a game-changer, offering a more inclusive platform for women who have naturally developed lower bodies, which may not fit into the criteria of other divisions
Who is Francielle Mattos?
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Francielle Mattos has reigned as the world champion of this division since her victory at the inaugural Wellness Olympia in 2021. Her continued dominance was evident at the 2023 Olympia in Orlando, FL, where she showcased her unrivaled prowess. Her physique epitomizes the ideal Wellness competitor: a combination of muscular development and aesthetic appeal, especially in the lower body.
For those new to the scene and curious about her rapid ascent, we delve into her early career and her journey to the pinnacle of the Wellness world.
Early Life and Background
Born on August 26, 1986, in Toledo, Brazil, Francielle Mattos has made significant strides in the bodybuilding world. She is married, has two children, and resides in Brazil, where bodybuilding enjoys substantial popularity, arguably more than in the United States. Her exceptional stage performances have made her a well-known figure in her home country.
In a video on the Olympia TV YouTube channel, Mattos shared that her passion for fitness ignited after she began going to the gym to combat postpartum depression. This newfound passion propelled her into competitive bodybuilding. Her story resonates with many, as she turned a personal struggle into a source of strength and inspiration.
Francielle Mattos’ Contest History
Before joining the IFBB Pro League, Mattos competed in the IFBB Elite Pro in 2018. In 2019, she switched to the IFBB Pro League, necessitating the reacquisition of her pro status. This transition was not without challenges, but her determination and hard work paid off.
Mattos achieved significant victories, winning the 2019 Arnold Amateur South America contest and the 2020 Arnold Amateur in Columbus, OH, which secured her IFBB Pro League card. These wins were pivotal, setting the stage for her future successes.
As of November 2023, Mattos remains undefeated as a professional, boasting three consecutive Wellness Olympia titles from 2021 to 2023. She is the sole champion in the division’s brief history. Below is her professional contest history, courtesy of NPC News Online:
2020
- Musclecontest Nacional Pro — 1st
2021
- Wellness Olympia — 1st
2022
- Wellness Olympia — 1st
2023
- Wellness Olympia — 1st.
Training
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The Wellness division focuses heavily on the lower body, requiring competitors to have more muscular glutes and thighs compared to divisions like Bikini. Consequently, Mattos trains her lower body with high intensity to ensure she presents her best physique on the Olympia stage.
A video from Olympia TV captures her lower body training during the early stages of her 2022 Olympia preparation. While specific sets and reps are not detailed, the exercises she incorporates are:
- Sumo Squats on Blocks: These squats help target the inner thighs and glutes, contributing to the overall development of the lower body.
- Barbell Stiff Leg Deadlifts: This exercise focuses on the hamstrings and glutes, crucial for the muscularity required in the Wellness division.
- Bulgarian Split Squats: This unilateral movement helps in building balance and strength in the thighs and glutes.
- Barbell Glute Bridges: A staple for glute development, this exercise helps in building the necessary muscle mass and strength.
- Side Leg Lifts: These are excellent for targeting the abductors, contributing to the overall shape and symmetry of the legs.
- Cable Glute Kickbacks: This exercise isolates the glutes, helping in achieving the desired muscle tone and definition.
Social Media and Business
Mattos has a substantial social media presence, with over 1 million followers on Instagram as of November 2023. Her YouTube channel has nearly 39,000 subscribers. She collaborates with several brands, including supplement sponsors Integral Medica, Darc Sport, and Dr. Peanut, promoting them actively across her platforms.
Her online presence not only allows her to connect with fans but also provides a platform to share her training routines, diet tips, and motivational messages. This has helped her build a loyal following and inspire many to pursue their fitness goals.
Wrap Up
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Mattos is anticipated to compete in the 2024 Olympia in Las Vegas, NV, from October 10-13, aiming for her fourth title. Still in her prime, many fans and experts believe she will successfully defend her title once more in Sin City. Her dedication to training and her consistent performance make her a formidable competitor, and her journey continues to inspire many in the fitness community.
In conclusion, Francielle Mattos embodies the spirit of the Wellness division. Her journey from overcoming postpartum depression to becoming a world champion is a testament to her determination and passion for fitness. The Wellness division, with its emphasis on lower body muscularity and overall aesthetic appeal, has found a perfect ambassador in Mattos. As she prepares for the 2024 Olympia, her story continues to motivate and inspire, highlighting the transformative power of fitness and dedication.
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