I got started lifting back in 2006 when I had to start training for my high school hockey team. At first I could care less about lifting and thought it was stupid. So pretty much for a whole year I never gave it my full effort. It wasn't until 2007 when I saw a friend who had been lifting for a few years and thought it was pretty cool how he could out-power people while playing hockey.
So late 2007, sometime in November, I started pushing myself harder during my workouts. Not too long after that I came down with mono and lost approximately 25 pounds, down to 150 pounds. So once I was fully recovered I started lifting again and eating a ton of food trying to gain back the weight I lost. It wasn't until late 2008 I started to see some small results. Over the next 3 years I met a lot of friends at the gym who really taught me what to eat/ when to eat it to fully benefit my workout. I would have to say I have seen the greatest improvement in size within the last year. I think that has a lot to do with understanding what my body needs as far as a workout and what foods to eat. I can't wait to see what the future brings!
When you give your body to exercise science, the extraordinary results will change your world for the better.
Amateur Bodybuilder Frank Pomes: Hard Work
Watch The Video - 03:37
I enjoy bodybuilding because I think there is nothing cooler than pushing the body to the limit day-in and day-out, and over time it transforms into a work of art. I also look at it this way; you're only given one body so why not keep it in the healthiest shape possible? Not to mention getting compliments on how good you look.
I would say my family and friends motivate me to stay healthy. My family, like most out there today, has seen its fair share of sicknesses, so I try to stay as healthy as I can so I can get the most out of life. Also my cousins are at the age now where they are really starting to get into lifting/ playing sports so I love the fact they come asking me for advice on how to train for their specific sport.
I'd have to say it's something that comes from deep down in me. My family has been very supportive of my goals and always has my back no matter what it is. So between them and the more I keep seeing improvement, the more the fire burns inside. I also find it a great way to relieve my stress; whatever ticks me off or gets under my skin during the day I can always take it out at the gym!
I can see myself competing in all-natural shows in the next few years. I'm waiting on my body to fully develop before I start to compete. My biggest goal of all is to make it into a big name fitness magazine. In the next few years I may even try to compete in the CrossFit games - who knows!
One tip I could give other fitness competitors is to take your time and enjoy lifting for what it is. The bodybuilding road is a long journey and there's no need to rush it. Enjoy the ride!
I'm a big fan of Evan Centopani and Derek Poundstone. They are both local to me and I would love to be 1/3 the size they are one day. From what I hear they are good guys who are willing to give advice and tips to other gym rats. Derek recently opened a new gym about 20 miles from me and I intend on going and checking it out soon.
Store, BodySpace, and I poke around in the forums.
Al Garseeyuh, Garseeyuh Clothing