Lou

Male

26

Hanover, Pennsylvania, United States

Graphic Designer, Portrait Artist

Sep, 1997

I originally started lifting as a freshman in high school. We had a Soloflex in the basement and a few dumbells. I was fairly strong naturally, and liked being able to overpower guys in hockey/lacrosse with the added edge of working out. Over the years I lifted off and on, and always liked running. I joined the Marines in '03, and unfortunately messed up my back while I was in the infantry and was sent home 6 months into my career... Since then, my back has been fine for years, and I really started reading up on fitness and lifting smarter. I started taking creatine in 2004, but it wasn't until January of 2007 that I took it more serious, and since then I have never missed a week of working out, whether it's running or lifting. Fast-forward to 2008, I became more focused and did lots of research, began taking several supplements, continued eating better than ever, and was in the best shape of my life... I even quit drinking completely in December and don't miss it at all. I carried it all into 2009, as I'm about to become a personal trainer soon. I'm training to compete in 2010, and train to get BETTER every time I step in the gym!

It takes a certain mindset, a certain toughness. Plus, you need discipline. Not everybody possesses these qualities, which is why most people don't do what we do. I'm fascinated by the way the human body has the ability to transform itself... Plus, this isn't just a sport; it's a LIFESTYLE. There are no lucky bounces or bending the rules; to see results, you have to give 100%. It's all or nothing. Period. ...the people who call us "meatheads" are the ones who don't have what it takes!

There's a few ways: Mainly, not wanting to be an "average Joe." I use the haters as fuel; the more people criticize me taking part in this sport, the more motivated I get. Ironically, the haters can all be found in the local dive bars... I also make a game out of it. I like going into each workout trying to beat my previous one. The bodyspace stats can be a great tool as well, it gives you a visual to your progress. Plus you see the benefits in sports... Also, when people come up and ask me for pointers or ask what I do for certain muscle groups. ...or sometimes somebody will say it motivates them to watch me. It makes you feel good, and it's proof that being positive, focused and motivated can affect people around you in a good way!

None yet... I want to compete in my first show in 2010.

Leave the bar stools for those with no ambition and no passion!