DXL Presents Carey Hope

Olympia's Hottest Babe
Carey Hope

Photos: Frank Antonio

While in Las Vegas for the Olympia Weekend, DXL scoured The Strip for the hottest babes in Sin City. The top 40 beauties graced our website and you voted for your favorite. The jackpot goes to... Carey Hope from Long Island, NY.

How did you get involved in fitness?

For a long time I suffered from depression. I was 30lbs heavier and I was constantly self-medicating with stimulants in the morning, food throughout the day, and alcohol at night. My friend Rich, who owns Caramello’s Fitness Zone in Merrick dragged me out of my apartment and introduced me to a whole new world. I learned I could get a natural ‘high’ through working out and I’ve been drug and binge free since. That’s when my love affair/therapy sessions with fitness began.

In addition to being to fitness model, you’re also a musician? How long have you been playing guitar? Acoustic or electric?

I started playing on my Uncle Frank's guitar when I was five but my fingers were too small to hit the notes. He used to play with his band at family barbeques and I would literally get chills! I knew I had to get my own guitar. My baby is an Ovation. It's an acoustic/electric so I can gig with it but also just play in my living room without driving my neighbors crazy. I am actually working on my single right now, so it should be out in the New Year.

Who are your musical influences?

I would say that I am a fusion of Evanescence, Lita Ford and Portishead. I know, leave it to me to find an oddball combination!

Do you find music to be therapeutic in addition to fitness?

Absolutely! Writing the lyrics is a genuine way to express myself. One problem I faced though, was when I did start to get healthy I stopped writing completely – I had no material. But, I am back on track now, and my lyrical vibe has lightened up considerably. I need to keep it real and write the truth.

Who’s your favorite artist to listen to while working out?

It's funny because I started out listening to bands like Godsmack and Metallica. Now I prefer Beyonce, Metro Station and Pink. For me, music can define the way I am feeling at any given moment, so why not keep it light and upbeat? The last thing I want to do is get angry because of the music I’m listening to and punch out the poor guy standing next to me…Uh, no anger issues here. [laughs]

What is your fitness philosophy?

If you think you're done...you not. Basically what that means to me is that you really have to push the limits to change. Being fit doesn't just end with your workouts; it extends into your mindset. Focus and perseverance make the difference between being ‘good enough’ and being the best you can be.

What inspires you to train the most?

The fact that my main goal in life is to LIVE FOREVER! Seriously, life is so delicate; I want to treat it well!