- Name: Herve Duchemin
- E-mail: HerveDuchemin@hotmail.com
- Age: 26
- Where: Bronx, NY
- Height: 6'0"
- Weight: 200 Lbs.
- Years Bodybuilding :5
- Favorite Bodypart: Abdominals & Shoulders
- Favorite Exercise: None
- Favorite Supplements: Whey Protein, Multi Vitamins, Omega 3,6,9 Fats.
How Did You Get Started?
When I was about 16 years old, I was very overweight and out of shape. I used to get teased a lot when I was younger, and it really got on my nerves. I was a victim of all of the useless "ab-gimmicks" and quick-fix plans that are sold on todays informercials. When the summer came around, me and a friend of mine decided to join a gym, so we did. We worked out the entire summer, and made fantastic gains. When we got back to school the following fall, we had completely changed our physiques, and people were now asking US for advice.
What Workout Plan Worked Best For You?
In the off-season, I tend to follow a 2 days on, 2 days off schedule, and I limit the amount of cardio I do to about 3 times a week, for 20 minutes or so (if I feel it is even necessary).
Since I need more rest in the off-season, I take those days off in order to recuperate, and make sure I take the time I need for the necessary growth to occur. I follow a low-rep scheme (about 4-8 reps) with about 2-3 minutes rest in between sets.
When preparing for a contest, I kick things into high gear. I usually workout about 6-7 days a week, with 8-12 rep sets, keeping everything very aerobic. I slowly add cardio in more and more until I'm doing 30 minutes in the morning on an empty stomach, everyday. Eventually, when the show approaches, I'm doing my morning cardio, and then another 30-40 minute session immediately after my weight-training. This kicks my metabolism up into high gear, and allows me to consume some more calories, while still continuing to get ripped.
What Nutrition Plan Has Worked Best For You?
What Supplements Have Given You The Greatest Gains?
I believe that the foundation of a supplementation program begins with a good Protein Shake, and a complete Multi-VItamin package. These are essential year-round tools needed to provide the body with its bare essentials. In addition to this, I find that most bodybuilders don't understand the true role of unsaturated fats in their diet. I've found that in the off-season, Udo's choice, along with some cod liver oil, primrose oil, and borage seed oil give me great energy, and during a cutting phase, they help me to lean down. It is really essential to provide your body with these healthy fats, for numerous reasons. During my cutting phase, I will use a fat burner, and L-carnitine. I also take Dandelion Root (as a diuretic), and use Ripping Gel (along with tanning sessions, and the sauna), in order to get my skin as tight as possible.
Why do you love Bodybuilding?
I really enjoy the sport, because it allows me to release my frustration in a positive way, while improving my health, and of course sculpting my physique. I'm also a fitness model with an agency in downtown Manhattan (look out Tito Raymond, and Stan McQuay!!), and am looking to expand in that industry in the years to come. It's the greatest feeling in the world to be able to totally change your physique, and have someone come up to you and say "I want to look like you, how can I do it"? I'm always willing to give advice to anyone, and welcome e-mails and questions all the time.
What Are Your Future Bodybuilding Plans?
I'm looking to enter an NPC show sometime in the Spring, as well as another NABBA show. I'm also hoping to expand my horizons in the fitness modeling industry. I'm appearing in a few magazines this upcoming year (currently in the January 2003 Issue of Flex "street scene"), and shot an ad for Ripped Fuel which will be appearing in a few magazines.
What One Tip Would You Give Other Bodybuilders?
EDUCATE, EDUCATE, EDUCATE. You have to keep educating yourself, to find out what works for "your" body. A lot of people will give advice on what has worked for them, but if you don't have their body type, you might not experience the same results. It is a lifelong journey of learning the ins and outs of your body, and unlocking your genetic potential to expose the most balanced and symmetrical physique possible. Learn as much as you can about nutrition and exercise, and then as Shawn Ray says, "STAY HUNGRY".
Who Are Your Favorite Bodybuilders?
I love Flex Wheeler, and Shawn Ray, for their show of truly balanced proportions, and I love Gunter Schlierkamp's "nice guy" attitude. As for younger bodybuilders, Stan McQuay is on the top of my list, and of course Frank Sepe was king of his day in regard to the youths.