'Real Housewives' star Teresa Giudice is a bodybuilder now — see her transformation


The Real Housewives of New Jersey star Teresa Giudice shocked fans by appearing in the NPC South Jersey Bodybuilding Championships on Saturday.

The 46-year-old flaunted her ripped physique and toned arms during the event while wearing a tiny glittery purple bikini and clear stiletto heels.

Giudice (with husband Joe in 2013 and as a bodybuilding contestant this month) debuted a dramatic new look. (Photo: Getty Images)
Giudice (with husband Joe in 2013 and as a bodybuilding contestant this month) debuted a dramatic new look. (Photo: Getty Images)

“She wanted a new challenge and pushed herself to the extreme,” a close friend told People. “Right now she is in the best shape of her life.

“She has lost a bunch of weight,” the source continued, adding that the reality star is “even more fit than when she got home [from prison].”

In 2015 Giudice was released from prison after serving 11 months for mail, wire, and bankruptcy fraud.

Teresa Giudice competed in the Bikini Division of the NPC South Jersey Bodybuilding Championships on June 9. (Photo: Getty Images)
Teresa Giudice competed in the Bikini Division of the NPC South Jersey Bodybuilding Championships on June 9. (Photo: Getty Images)
From <em>Real Housewives</em> star to bodybuilder. (Photo: Getty Images)
From Real Housewives star to bodybuilder. (Photo: Getty Images)

The reality star, who entered the 40-plus division, finished in third place.

Her brother, Joe Gorga, was there to support her, as was her trainer, Tara Zito.

Joe and Teresa Giudice in 2013. (Photo: Getty Images)
Joe and Teresa Giudice in 2013. (Photo: Getty Images)

Meanwhile, husband Joe Guidice is currently serving his 41-month sentence for fraud and is said also to be jumping on the fitness bandwagon.

Read more from Yahoo Lifestyle:

Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for nonstop inspiration delivered fresh to your feed, every day.