Interviewed by 515fitness.com
Could you provide a brief background about yourself and how you got into fitness?
I started lifting weights when I was in the 9th grade. This is when I learned the basic compound movements. During college is when I really got into training like a bodybuilder. I loved going to the gym with a purpose, to grow my mind, physique and my strength. I've been addicted to it ever since.
How did you get started in Physique competitions?
Last fall my friend convinced me to sign up for the Arnold Classic Mens Physique with him in Columbus, Ohio. I was 213 pounds and my bodyfat was somewhere around 14%. Over the 5 months I spent preparing for the Arnold, I learned what worked best for my body, and the importance of a well rounded clean diet to reach my goals. I ended up walking on stage at 185 pounds and 4% bodyfat. If it wasn't for committing to the show so early, I would have never done it. I'm so glad that I did.
What other doors has competing in Physique shows opened for you?
I've recently done some photo shoots with some pretty big named photographers in Florida. It was completely unexpected to get into fitness modeling, but it has become something that I really enjoy. I plan to do many more in the future. I have met so many new friends in the fitness community. It is incredible how many people you meet along the way.
As a competitive physique competitor, I imagine you must have a grueling training schedule. What is a typical day like for you?
It starts with a 7am cardio session every morning, usually anywhere from 30 minutes to 1 hour. I train one muscle group per day for about 1 1/2 hours. If I am preparing for a show I may come back to do more cardio at night. Once in prep mode, my training is like clock work. I love dieting and being in the best shape that I can be. It's really a constant battle! As soon as you let up you start losing what you've worked so hard for. So, that's an incentive to keep giving my all every day.
What is your advice for people who are interested in getting started in physique competitions?
My best advice is to commit! Committing to a show motivates you and gives you a deadline to be ready for. You're less likely to say "Oh, I'll just do my cardio tomorrow" or "I'm going to take the day off." It's a great way to hold yourself accountable!
Nutrition is key in terms of health and fitness. What is your current nutrition plan like?
I stick to a pretty generic plan. I eat a lot of chicken, lean loin steak, fish, ton's of green veggies, healthy fats like coconut oil, and almonds. These days it's not so much a"diet" for me, but instead is a lifestyle. I enjoy eating these things because they make me feel good and are what's best for my body.
What do you do to stay mentally strong for your sport?
I always keep my goals in mind, and you have to stay hungry! I'm human though, sometimes I do lack motivation, but it's usually not for long. I know that I have people who look up to me and I can't let them down, besides myself.
Which part of a this sport do you think is the most challenging for you?
It tends to get pretty taxing on your body at times. You have to push through the bad days when you don't even want to see the gym. Working hard on those days are what will separate you from the pack and is what will take you to the next level.
Are there any fitness myths you would like to debunk?
Where do I start?? There are so many. I'll stick to a simple one that a lot of beginners don't understand right away. You can walk into any supplement store and buy all of the most expensive, top notch products that you would like, but nothing works unless you do.
Are there any upcoming events or anything else you would like to share?
I've actually been dieting for a few weeks, and I plan to be in pretty great shape here in 6 to 8 weeks. Depending on where I am at that point I will decide whether or not to enter another show. Currently I plan to compete at the Arnold Classic, Iowa Hawkeye Classic, NPC show in Souix City, and Junior Nationals in 2014!
Instagram: @jcs_fit
Twitter: @salter6
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