GRANTS, N.M. – TBones Gym owner Carrie Talley and her husband Julian Armijo marked a major milestone this fall, entering their first bodybuilding competition after losing a combined 125 pounds since early 2024.
Talley reported she is down 70 pounds from her highest weight, while Armijo has lost 55 pounds.
The couple began their fitness journey in January 2024 with a simple goal: improve their health and “be the best version” of themselves. Over the past year they committed to regular training, changed their diet and made broader lifestyle shifts, including quitting alcohol and becoming more active in their church community.
At the show, Talley, a disabled veteran who has undergone multiple surgeries on one knee, placed fourth in her division and received a Hero Award. Armijo earned first place and two third-place medals in his categories in his debut appearance.
“We didn’t do this for a trophy,” Talley said. “We did it for our health, our marriage and our future.”
Talley said she and Armijo now plan to build on their experience with a new faith-based training program, Iron Shapes Iron, which they intend to launch through T-Bones Gym.