Rising Star in Bodybuilding Balances Passion with Academics

Seton Hall University senior Gianna Laumbach (Howell, NJ) is proving that it’s possible to pursue both athletic dreams and academic excellence. As a B.S. in Interprofessional Health Sciences (B.S. in IPHS) major with a concentration in Exercise Science, she plans to enter the field of strength and conditioning. However, Laumbach has also found her niche in the world of bodybuilding — a sport she’s become immersed in thanks to her family’s support and influence.

Growing up, Laumbach explored a variety of sports, including basketball, soccer, volleyball, track and dance, but it wasn’t until college that she turned to bodybuilding. “I tried a bit of everything,” said Laumbach “And then I stopped before going away to college. I just felt like I missed being part of something and having a goal.”

Feeling a void after leaving behind team sports, she found bodybuilding offered a new challenge — one that fit perfectly with her upbringing and personal interests. “My dad’s a professional bodybuilder, and my brother competes, so I grew up going to their shows,” she says. “I figured, why not do something I’m already good at?”

Her Exercise Science concentration at Seton Hall has provided Laumbach with the technical knowledge needed to succeed in bodybuilding. Courses like anatomy, physiology and biomechanics have equipped her to better understand muscle groups, injury prevention and exercise efficiency. This foundation has enhanced her training, helping her excel both in and out of the gym. “It’s made me a better bodybuilder,” she says. “Understanding how muscles work together and how to perform exercises safely and effectively has been crucial. Bodybuilding isn’t just about lifting weights — there’s a meticulous level of planning involved.”

Laumbach’s preparation for her first competition required sharp time management skills as she balanced coursework and sorority responsibilities with intense training. She hit the gym as early as 7 a.m. and often studied while walking on a treadmill. “It was very difficult,” she admits. “I had to sacrifice a lot, but I stayed focused on my two main priorities: school and bodybuilding. There were times when my coach texted me, saying, “Hey, you're Apple Watch says you haven't met your 14,000-step goal,” so I had to get on the treadmill.”

Her bodybuilding prep involved regimented meal plans and a strict workout routine. Workouts consisted of weightlifting sessions focused on muscle failure and cardio, with adjustments made as competition time approached. Despite the physical demands and energy depletion, Laumbach maintained discipline, crediting her success to sheer determination. She competed in the NPC Muscle Beach Championship 2024, placing in all three stacked bikini classes and earning third place in the women's open class.

After her first competition in summer 2024, Laumbach is now taking time to focus on her studies and prepare for a career in the fitness industry. She’s currently studying for her National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) and Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) certifications to become a personal trainer and strength and conditioning coach. Additionally, she has an internship lined up with the Seton Hall strength and conditioning department and plans to pursue further education, potentially in exercise physiology.

Gianna Laumbach’s journey demonstrates that with passion, dedication and a solid educational foundation, it’s possible to thrive in both academics and athletics. As she continues to develop her career, she remains an inspiration to those looking to achieve greatness in multiple arenas. “I’d love to continue bodybuilding and possibly train others in the future,” she says. “It’s a great experience that I want to stay involved in.”

Interim Dean Vikram Dayalu of the Seton Hall School of Health and Medical Sciences says, “For students like Gianna, the dynamic B.S. in IPHS major provides solid preparation for a variety of career paths, from graduate studies in health sciences and health administration, to full-time, entry level healthcare roles upon completing their degree.” Launched in 2022, the degree offers three concentrations: Exercise Science; Health Sciences Administration and Management; and Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences Marketing. For more information, visit: www.shu.edu/academics/b-s-interprofessional-health-sciences.html.

Categories: Health and Medicine