article_snippet.sent: Maria Twomey, 42, of Watford, became a bikini competitor after swapping takeaways and fatty snacks for weight-lifting and intense workouts on the exercise bike.
article_snippet.sent: After being encouraged by Maria family and friends, Maria took part in Maria first amateur competition, the Miami Pro in St Albans, in October 2014.
article_snippet.sent: Maria said: 'I was 41 and stepping on to a stage to pose for the first time in my life in a size six bikini. '
article_snippet.sent: Maria is will take part in Maria second competition on Sunday April 19 at the Miami Pro World Championships in St Albans.
article_snippet.sent: Maria is using the exposure gained from competing to launch a career as a personal trainer.
article_snippet.sent: Maria with Maria trophy having won second place in the Miami Pro modelling competition in St Albans in 2014 .
highlights_snippet.sent: Maria Twomey, 42, of Watford, decided hit 40 and decided it was time for a change .
  