- Name: Todd Hnatiuk
- E-mail: toddhnatiuk@yahoo.com
- Age: 35
- Where: Calgary, AB, Canada
- Height: 5'6"
- Weight: 162
- Years Bodybuilding :15
- Favorite Bodypart: Back and arms
- Favorite Exercise: Incline hammer press and hack squats
- Favorite Supplements: Whey Isolate, Flax Oil, Multi-Vitamin
How Did You Get Started?
Hi everybody! Let me start by sending out a big thank-you, to the staff at Bodybuilding.com. Your website stands head and shoulders above all others! I appreciate you giving me the opportunity to share my story.
My journey began at the age of 20 years old, with a new years resolution to add some size to my frail 133-pound frame. I knew that to reach any set goal, you must fully commit to the task at hand. With this in mind, I handed over $500 for my first gym membership; and have been dedicated ever since. From that point on my life has never been the same. I've competed 8 times since 1998, with the high point being my win at the provincials, and 2nd at the Canadian Nationals.
What Workout Plan Worked Best For You?
I credit my training theology to the late Mike Mentzer. The brief, intense, and infrequent approach to training, has kept me progressing for 15 years. I train instinctively, always referring to my detailed training log book. I'm constantly striving to improve my weak points, incorporating many hardcore principals (rest pause, forced reps, negatives, and drop sets). I train each body part once every 5 to 7 days, with the exception of calves and abs. In the off-season, I would go with a 4 day program, resting every second to third day.
Example:
- Day 1. Chest/Bi
- Day 2. Delt/Tri
- Day 3. Quad/Ham
- Day 4. Back/Calf
What Nutrition Plan Has Worked Best For You?
When it comes to successful meal planning, I believe common sense should prevail. Do not put anything in your body, unless it strengthens your structure; and nothing in your mind unless it strengthens your soul. All my food choices are basic and unprocessed, with fluid intake being a priority. Protein intake averages 250g/day, fat is 20-50g/day, and carbs vary according to activity level. Pre-contest total calories are about 1200-2000. Off-season the calories are easily double. It is important to record your intake, so you are not second guessing yourself.
What Supplements Have Given You The Greatest Gains?
There are many variables when it comes to bodybuilding, and progress. There is no doubt in my mind that supplementation is necessary, for people seeking extraordinary results. I believe everyone should start with the basics and go from there. The first choice should be a good Multi-Vitamin, Whey Isolate, Flax Oil, Glutamine, and Creatine. I also recommend a live blood profile be done, to pinpoint any imbalances one might have.
Why do you love Bodybuilding?
To me bodybuilding is so much more, than the pursuit of muscle size and strength. It's the anchor that stabilizes me, and keeps me focused and secure in a crazy world. It's given me the power to overcome obstacles, and confidence to believe I can accomplish anything I dream. I am dedicated to helping others achieve their ultimate potential. There is no better way to slow down the aging process, and you can't deny the respect and admiration it brings.
What Are Your Future Bodybuilding Plans?
The 2004 Mr. Olympia weekend puts me exactly 44 weeks away from the '05 Canadian Nationals in Montreal. This will be my 5th trip to the nationals, and considering I will travel 2000 miles to compete, you can be sure I will have done my homework. I'm hoping to move up a weight class, and the help of any sponsor, will ensure my success. All offers are welcome.
What One Tip Would You Give Other Bodybuilders?
Always record your sessions, be consistent, and patient. Put enough weight on the bar to insult your pride; not just enhance your vanity. When it makes you fight for your dignity, then I'd say it's worth it!
Who Are Your Favorite Bodybuilders?
The first person that comes to mind without question is Lee Labrada, Vince Taylor, Flex Wheeler, and Gary Strydom. Some local favorites are Daniel Dufrenese, Trent Walsh, and Billy Mackie.