San Jose, Costa Rica
The picturesque and breathtaking capital of Costa Rica, the former Spanish colonial outpost tucked away in Central America is as beautiful and historic a city as you will ever find.
Located in the Central Valley, Chepe—as it is sometimes called—boasts a population of 2.1 million, is the country’s major hub of transportation and tourism.
One of the top spring break hot spots annually, San Jose was ranked the sixth-most important destination in all of Latin America, per TheMasterCard Global Destinations Cities Index 2012.
While known for being a place of paradise and great beauty, one of it’s own citizens in fitness and Instagram model, Susan Sophia Rouse may turn out to be it’s greatest ambassador.
Based in Tampa Bay, Florida and currently a student at the University of South Florida, the curvy and simply gorgeous 25-year-old Rouse is both easy on the eyes as well as being so outgoing.
Blessed with an eye-catching figure and athletic build, the 5’6 bombshell has modeled for Tampa-based bikini swimwear line, The Bikini Boutique with sights set on doing bigger things in 2017.
Below is my Q and A with Ms. Rouse as we discuss fitness, modeling, fashion and her love of her adopted hometown Tampa Bay sports teams.
Name: Susan Sophia Rouse
Age: 25
Height: 5’6″
Measurements: 32-27-36
Birthplace: San Jose, Costa Rica
Residence: Tampa Bay, Florida
Agency: Freelance
Social Media Links: Instagram | @so_lavish
Robert D. Cobb: What kind of model do you consider yourself?
Susan Sophia Rouse: “Fitness, Instagram, bikini and boutique”
Robert D. Cobb: What brands have you modeled for? Which one do you enjoy modeling for the most?
Susan Sophia Rouse: “The Bikini Boutique in Tampa, my favorite would certainly be bikini and fitness style photo shoots”
Robert D. Cobb: Where has been your favorite place to shoot?
Susan Sophia Rouse: “Being a Costa Rican/Florida girl, I would have to say the beach!”
Robert D. Cobb: What is the most exciting aspect of modeling?
Susan Sophia Rouse: “Working with amazing photographers, other models, makeup artists, etc. it’s so exciting to see people come together to make something really beautiful happen!”
Robert D. Cobb: With springnow here, what fashion and style tips and trends do you have for looking good when the temperature drops?
Susan Sophia Rouse: “Embrace this amazing weather for hair! You can wear it straight or curled without worrying about humidity. Cozy sweaters over leggings and cute boots are always a lovely stapled look, you look but together while feeling super comfy!”
Robert D. Cobb: Any style tips for women that you wish to pass on?
Susan Sophia Rouse: “I believe that woman should own their own style, don’t just go buy whatever is popular at the moment but create your own style at the gym that makes you feel comfortable and beautiful! Everyone is different and there is so much variety in todays world that you can make it whatever your heart desires.”
Robert D. Cobb: Within the industry, who is your inspiration?
Susan Sophia Rouse: “My inspiration comes from a lot of different fitness models, the year round conditioning that they are loyal to shows and it’s an incredible commitment to health, and motivating others!”
Robert D. Cobb: Fashion or fitness fad, what is your opinion of athleisure?
Susan Sophia Rouse: “Athleisure has a time and place, I think it certainly is a fashion. Women can look like super models at the gym, while out running errands or even at home lounging!
I still encourage getting dressed up and putting on some makeup from time to time because you put in work in the gym you should get dolled up every now and then and show it off!”
Robert D. Cobb: What’s the best way to stay motivated during the colder months?
Susan Sophia Rouse: “During the colder months it’s important to remember your goals that you have worked so hard for in the other months during the year, fitness is not a season it’s a lifestyle.
Success is created in your daily habits, meal prepping, training, proper supplementation and making sure you get your beauty sleep! During the cold months I always love going to the sauna to shake the cold and get into my workout! Plus cute workout winter clothes are always fun”
Robert D. Cobb: What is your secret to staying in shape?
Susan Sophia Rouse: “My secret is really no secret at all, eat clean, train hard, hit some pre breakfast cardio 2-3 times a week and drink lots of water!”
Robert D. Cobb: Describe your workout routine?
Susan Sophia Rouse:
“My workout routine usually looks like this every week:
Monday: shoulders
Tuesday: back
Wednesday: legs
Thursday: chest
Friday: arms and abs
Saturday: glutes and hamstrings
Sunday: active rest day”
Robert D. Cobb: Outside of modeling, what are your hobbies?
Susan Sophia Rouse: “Outside of modeling I love fitness, I’m a personal trainer and I genuinely enjoy watching people accomplish their goals! I also love painting, and home projects.”
Sports question: Who are your favorite teams and clubs
Susan Sophia Rouse: “Since I’ve grown up in Tampa, I would have to say the Bucs, Rays, and Lightning!”
Robert D. Cobb: What are your favorite cities to travel to?
Susan Sophia Rouse: “In the USA, I love Seattle, WA! Outside of the USA, I would have to say San Jose, Costa Rica!”
Robert D. Cobb: What advice would you give to women aspiring to get into modeling?
Susan Sophia Rouse: “My advice to women who are aspiring models: carry yourself with confidence, know that you may not be every ones cup of tea but never let that stop you, wake up every day, work towards your goals, and always take chances! You never know how close you are to making your dreams come true!”