At the recent national championships, Alexander dominated the competition to win the women's physique class, while McQuinn finished runner-up in the men's under-85kg class.

Those results followed standout performances at the Victorian championships.

 Alexander won gold, while McQuinn won silver in the men's under-90kg class.

McQuinn, who runs Doherty's Gym in Bendigo, said Alexander's national title win was outstanding.

"As Sarah's coach I have a lot of belief in her and I have no doubt she will make the professional ranks in her chosen field,'' McQuinn said.

Alexander has only been competing for two years.

"I love it,'' Alexander said. 

"I used to be really skinny and wanted to build myself up without putting on fat.

"I started coming to Doherty's Gym, I met Danny and I took bodybuilding seriously from there."

McQuinn has been competing as an amateur bodybuilder since 1997.

 "I got into weight training purely as a self-esteem thing and that led to bodybuilding,'' McQuinn said.

"For me, it's not about trophies, it's all about the diet, training and preparation for the competition. 

"It's a personal challenge to see how mentally strong you are. Complete that and I feel as though I can do anything."