How Did You Get Started?

When I was 17 I weighed 125 lbs and wanted to improve the way I looked. So I bought a small DP brand weight set from Sears. However, I didn't become "serious" until I was 19 years old and my best friend Mark Rousso and I took a weight training class at Miami-Dade Community College. We liked weight training so much that we kept signing up for the class, over and over again. After taking the class 4 semesters in a row, the instructor suggested that we join a gym. So it was at that point that I discovered the wonderful world of free-weights (barbells & dumbbells). That one change, plus the discipline and consistency Mark helped me develop, produced significant gains in not only my strength, but my overall appearance.

What Workout Plan Worked Best For You?

I tried a variety of routines at the beginning (circuit training, 3 days on 2 days off, etc). At 22 I was able to arrange my schedule to the point where I could exercise 5-6 days per week. I started training only once muscle group per day for 5 days during the week. Over a period of time, I noticed I was able to properly fatigue the muscles enough that I would promote growth. Whenever you change the frequency, intensity or duration of your workout, your body will respond. For example I'd do:

Day One = Chest
Day Two = Arms
Day Three = Legs (heavy)
Day Four = Back
Day Five = Shoulders
Day Six = Legs (light - optional)

What Supplements Have Given You The Greatest Gains?

In recent years I've supplemented with Creatine, while also supplementing with a protein powder. Most of the size and weight gains you experience with Creatine are a result of water-uptake by the muscle cells (i.e. cell volumization). By supplementing protein at the same time, your body will have material to repair and improve muscle cells. Over time the weight gains from water uptake will be substituted by weight attributed to an increase in lean muscle tissue.

Why do you love Bodybuilding?

Aside from the way it makes me feel, it forces me to develop discipline and structure in my life and thus gives me a sense of accomplishment when my goals have been reached. Success is the progressive realization of worthwhile dreams and goals. By staying disciplined and consistent, success is inevitable. That is basically what this journey has taught me. Hehehe...looking good with my shirt off isn't a bad thing either. -grin-

What Are Your Future Bodybuilding Plans?

I'm competing locally on November 4th, 2000. I plan to get the first place trophy in my weight class. I've competed twice before (1995 and 1997), and both experiences were life changing. If I compete again after this, it'll be at the "Masters" level (35 and older). So we'll see.

What One Tip Would You Give Other Bodybuilders?

Don't quit. No matter how tough things may seem, don't quit. Discipline and consistency are the key to success. Hang in there, believe in yourself, read a lot, go to the gym and have fun!

Who Are Your Favorite Bodybuilders?

Jinkies, I have so many! Let's see... Lee Haney, Arnold Schwarzenneger, Lenda Murray, Bob Paris, Danny Hester, oh...the list is endless. There a lot of friends of mine who are amateur bodybuilders that inspire me by their hard work and determination as well. Abu-Speitan Hussam (who was ABOTW recently!), Boyke Pribadi, Perry Bigley, Solo & Kristen Yopp. I tell you, the list is endless! Competing in bodybuilding has given me a deep respect for those who take part in the process. Not only is it character building, it can also be a lot of fun.

More Bodybuilder Profiles:

:: Current Amateur Of The Week.
:: Other Previous Amateurs Of The Week.
:: Teen Bodybuilder Of The Week.
:: Over 40 Bodybuilder Of The Week.
:: Fitness Competitor Of The Week.

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