I have always played sports and received a full-ride scholarship to play basketball in Metro State in Colorado. I specifically got into bodybuilding as a New Year’s resolution in 2017. Then I was hooked after earning my Pro card at my second show. From there, I have travelled the world, including South Korea, Italy, and Australia, to compete in world championships. My favourite category is Sports Model as well as Athletic because my physique is that of a pretty shredded basketball player.

Age:
36

City, State/Province:
Oceanside, San Diego

Country:
USA

Occupation?
Personal Trainer, Fitness Studio Owner.

Many people struggle with losing weight. Are the challenges as simple as a fitness issue, or is it more of an underlying health issue?
Currently, the overwhelming majority of people struggle with weight, be it in their own personal assessment of how they want to look, poor health, or genetic/medical circumstances. Although there can be underlying medical issues, fitness, mainly lifestyle choices, is the dominant factor that has led to the obesity epidemic. The onset of more time spent sitting and clicking has led to less time standing and moving. Practically everything we do can be done with just a click or command to “Alexa”. Portion distortion and fast food have only exasperated the problem.

What would be the top 3 tips you would provide to someone who is struggling to lose weight?

• Analysis paralysis–Stop trying to plan or overthink when, where, and how you will start to exercise and eat healthily. You can easily talk yourself out of getting started and delay your health journey even longer. There will never be a perfect time, day, or program that will align with every single box you want to check off. Get moving now, not later and not when you think the holidays, work, and life won’t get in the way.
• Let processed foods go–Eating foods without labels and packages instantly gets rid of many unnecessary sugars and carbohydrates that have taunted and tricked your taste buds. Instead of a snack pack, eat a fresh piece of fruit or cut-up vegetables. Instead of a bagel, how about some eggs? Processed foods might be quick and easy, but they quickly lead to sugar crashes and don’t convert to the nutrients your body needs for proper functioning.
• Movement is medicine–To build a healthy foundation for your bones and muscles, you need to get moving. The more muscle you have, the more calories you can burn just resting. Create a body that loves endorphins and that craves movement. Your body appreciates activity that gets the blood pumping.

If you have 100 tokens in total and you could apply them to the following categories, how many would you apply to each?
Tough question as I’m a natural bodybuilder that really strives for health, especially when my health attributes to my fitness level.

• Fitness level: 25
• Health level: 75

Thoughts on HIIT, Powerlifting, TRX, Yoga, bodybuilding, and others?
All modalities of fitness have their pros and their cons. For 90% of my clients, I focus on lifestyle change and I also work with the older population. TRX can be good for their needs, but typically, HITT deters those I work with because their fitness level isn’t matched with that. I do great variations of Tabata training that can be modified for any level, so that is a good go-to for me. Bodybuilding is pretty much left to me, and I have a coach that helps with this too.

How did your passion for fitness start? And what was the biggest challenge you have faced on your journey?
My passion started with basketball but took off once I received my master’s degree in Physical Education and Health. From there, I was all in and wanted to help others. I was actually recruited at the local gym to be a personal trainer and got really good at programming and helping older adults, so that has been my niche. I also coached basketball too for a few years. Both my parents were teachers, so I’ve always been about education, hence going on to receive my Doctorate. The biggest challenge has been running a small business because there are many incredible benefits to this, but anytime you are dealing with the public, you have to let your ego go and know that you can’t please everyone.

Share your unique training/coaching methods?
I’m the queen of variation and modifications. I love showing people that they can do more than they think they can. I’ve had 70- and 80-years old clients doing burpees, but of course in a modified fashion. My clients proclaim that they never do the same workout twice.

Training Plan:
I follow the NASM OPT model working phases for 4 to 6 weeks, focusing on endurance, strength, then power.

Nutritional Plan:
Clean, clean, clean. I’ve written two books on Amazon that are about metabolism and have over 100 recipes. My coach makes my meal plans, but I know I eat about 1200 calories and stay lean that way.

Supplement Plan:
BCAA’s, beta-alanine, protein powder, that’s it. I’m all-natural.

Do you prefer to take and recommend all-natural (no sugar, no artificial colours/flavours/sweeteners) supplements or supplements with artificial flavours and sweeteners? And Why?
I like flavour although all-natural is preferred. I’m a vanilla and chocolate girl, so although I realize some of the protein powers have sugar alcohols or flavours, I’ll compromise on this since I eat so clean. I have certain brands I do recommend to clients, and I do believe that the less sugar you have in any form takes those cravings away.

Please describe the importance of mental health?
It can make or break you, so having a foundation of knowing who you are, what triggers you, your strengths, and being resilient is the key to being happy.

Take us through a typical day in your life for you?
5:15 am wake up get ready for work and eat breakfast, train clients from 6:30 am to 12:30 pm, go see my coach, come back to the studio train clients from 2:15 pm to 6:30 pm. Get home, do whatever academics or paperwork I have, get ready for bed, and finish any meal prep in bed by 9 pm.

What separates Status from other fitness magazines?
Quality of athletes and personal experiences shared. The diversity of topics and athletes draws in relatable material as well as inspirational material. The layout is easy to follow, and it is very community fitness oriented in a supportive manner.

If you could ask Status Fitness Magazine Editor-in-Chief Rodney Jang any industry question, what would that be?
We all think about what if I did this or what if I did that in life. For me it’s what if I would have to stick with basketball, could I have gone pro? What is your “what if”?

Status Fitness Magazine runs model searches across North America, including the largest one at the Arnold Classic for the Status cover. As part of the Status family, you will receive a special participation invite. How excited are you about this opportunity?
Wow, it definitely does feel like a “status”. What an accomplishment too, to be part of a community that supports fitness endeavours. I see some of these profiles and features the Magazine runs, and I’m like I want to be that person, so it would be a goal to check off for sure.

Describe your coaches and the impact they have on you?
My coach is my mentor and motivator. I aim to make him proud, and we have been together since 2017, so it has been a journey together. I can’t thank him enough and I know that he supports me in all that I do every single time.

Can you share with us your goals for fitness and life?
I want to be the fitness motivation and inspiration for others to aspire to be like. I want to be a fitness role model who leads by example. I’m also interested in helping persons with addictions use exercise as medicine. In life, I want to be the best wife, pug mom, and friend that I can be to others who are loyal and true to me.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned?
To actually practise the serenity prayer. I am not in control and worry and anxiety change nothing. This was especially true doing the Covid-19 shutdown when my business was closed for 3 months.

5 most important attributes you see in a person?
Loyalty, Empathy, Ambitious, Reliable, Trustworthy.

If you could inspire one person, who would that be? And why?
I want to inspire my nephew. He loves sports and going through the pandemic highlighted to me how much kids need movement. I want him to see that if he sticks to a sport or activity, he can be the best that he can be with it if he practices all the time.

Who inspires you? And why?
My mom. She passed away, but she was a person who set her mind to something and made it happen. She was the epitome of beauty and brains.

What is your number one tip for people on their fitness journey?
Don’t give up. It’s the long haul. It’s the ones who go the extra mile. When no one else is looking, you stick to your plan. When you feel tired or want to quit, don’t let momentary feelings overtake a lifetime goal.

What does success look like for you?
It’s being the best version of me and knowing that I’ve given absolutely 100 to what I’m doing. If that isn’t good enough for someone else, well, it’s my best and if I’ve let it all out on the table, then I’m happy with that.

What is your favourite quote to live by?
“Treat others how you want to be treated”. In business and in life, I respect those who respect me.

Connect with Megan: IG | Website | Youtube Channel
Photos By: Lorenzo Gaspar

Growing up, I was the stereotypical nerd. I started my journey at around 145 lbs standing at about 6’1”. Now I stay around 205 lbs and maintain a very healthy shape. I was tall and skinny, I had glasses, braces and asthma. I didn’t have a lot of confidence in myself because of these things and I wanted to change. It wasn’t until grade 12 that I decided to go to the gym. After a few months of going, I began to see results, and I was absolutely hooked. I weight trained for the next year and fully immersed myself in the industry. This was around the time Men’s physique started getting popular and there happened to be a show coming up in Fort St. John that I decided to compete in. I made it a point to study as much as I could, so I could have a successful prep. I lost around 35 lbs and ended up winning the Overall for Men’s Physique. That was a real catalyst for me and it really ignited my passion for fitness. I have been self-coached ever since!

I went on to get my first personal training certificate to improve my own knowledge. That led to some amazing opportunities to work with people in my hometown that I believe changed the trajectory of my life and made me realize that I have a passion for helping people. I continued to study everything I could get my hands on when it came to fitness. I went on to compete in 4 more physique shows and 3 model searches over the next 5 years.

I went through a lot of challenges during that time and had learnt a lot through trial and error. Because of all my combined experiences and my passion for helping people, I decided to get into the online coaching space. I knew I could make a real impact on people’s lives and I wanted to show them that getting into shape is more than just physical. It helps you level up as a person and encourages you to believe in yourself. Fitness changed my life, and I wanted to help others do the same.

Age:
28

City, State/Province:
Kamloops, BC

Country:
Canada

Occupation:
Online Fitness Coach & Owner of Built By Bruce.

In your opinion, is weight loss more of a fitness issue or a health issue and why?
Without a doubt, I think that weight loss is more of a health issue. I can’t tell you how many people come to me with hormonal issues, metabolism issues or injuries from poor diet and habits. Changing their routine and applying weight loss methods helps improve not only their health but their mental health as well! It’s cool to see our competitive clients get shredded, but if you truly want health, a certain body fat percentage is needed!

If you have 100 tokens in total and you could apply them to the following categories, how many would you apply to each?

• Fitness level: 30
• Health level: 70

Thoughts on HIIT, Powerlifting, TRX, Yoga, bodybuilding, and others?
They all have their place, but it depends on the person and what their goal is. I’ve tried all of them, aside from powerlifting, and have seen benefits, but I always come back to bodybuilding because it has so many more benefits long term.

How did your passion for fitness start? And what was the biggest challenge you have faced on your journey?
My passion for fitness truly started after I competed in my first physique competition. The challenge was a huge motivator for me going forward. Fitness became part of my everyday routine ever since then.

The biggest challenge I have faced on my fitness journey has been navigating different approaches to weight loss, muscle gain, etc. There is a lot of information out there, and it doesn’t always hold true for everybody. There were lots of trial and error, not only with my personal fitness journey but coaching my clients as well.

Share your unique training/coaching methods?
Focus on the basics! When it comes to nutrition, I only practice and teach Flexible Dieting. This is the most effective, enjoyable, and productive way to approach nutrition. Tracking macros allows you to not only learn the true value of your food but also teaches you more about your body and how it responds to certain macros ratios and foods which, in turn, allows me and my clients to be able to make better decisions on a daily basis! When it comes to training, I have a less is more approach. I believe that focusing on the basics is what delivers great results, not all these random HIIT workouts or circuits you see people doing on social media. I used to be the guy in the gym training for 3 hours straight with minimal rest and I found that I was spinning my tires. When I started to put less emphasis on sweating or a “burn” and more of an emphasis on the quality of each rep and set and my actual performance, I really started to see more results and now, so do my clients.

Trainer Philosophy:
My trainer philosophy is this: education, sustainability & consistency over everything. Education is key to helping people create lasting changes to their health and fitness. If I can teach people not only what to do with their training and nutrition but also how to do it and why they are doing it, they will have significantly better long-term results. Most people just want a band-aid solution. Something quick and easy to follow that involves no thinking, and that’s why so many continue to fail at their fitness endeavours. They will blindly follow restrictive dieting methods or a meal plan and high-intensity workouts hoping to see rapid weight loss. Eventually, they’ll get bored, burn out and quit, only to look for the next quick fix. I would rather educate them first than employ a plan that they can stick with long-term and actually enjoy. That way, they are far less likely to burn out and the Yo-Yo diet.

Training Plan:
I train 6 days a week right now. My current training split is this:

• Monday: Lower Push
• Tuesday: Upper Push
• Wednesday: Upper Pull
• Thursday: Lower Pull
• Friday: Weak Points
• Saturday: Arms
• Sunday: Rest Day

Nutritional Plan:
I actually don’t follow a meal plan. I track my macronutrients instead. It’s far more flexible and allows me to understand more about my body. These macronutrients change based on my goals. Right now I am in a contest prep so they are significantly lower than usual!

Supplement Plan:
I take Creatine Monohydrate, Pre-Workout, Greens Powder, Vitamin C & D, and Whey Protein Powder. Only supplements that are well researched and have been proven effective for my fitness journey!

Do you prefer to take and recommend all-natural (no sugar, no artificial colours/flavours/sweeteners) supplements or supplements with artificial flavours and sweeteners? And Why?
I prefer to take all-natural supplements, but I don’t mind straying from that once in a while. The more I can fuel myself with natural ingredients and products, the better off and healthier I’ll be, but at the end of the day, I don’t think it makes a large difference overall.

Please describe the importance of mental health?
Mental health is everything. I’ve worked with many people who struggle with their mental health and have usually found how effective a solid fitness and nutrition routine can help improve it. I know I feel at my best when I’m outdoors, exercising, and fueling my body with nutritious foods! It’s so important to put yourself first and have a routine to keep your mental health in check, whatever that may look like.

Take us through a typical day in your life for you?
I’ll typically wake up around 8 AM and start the day off with around a litre of water and then a cup or two of coffee with breakfast. Then I’ll do an hour of work before I go for an hour’s walk with my 1-year-old son. After the walk, I’ll head to the gym to get my workout in and I’ll typically follow that up with 30 mins of cardio. Once I get back home, I’ll shower and eat and hang out with the family for another hour before I do some work on my business. Once that is all done, I’ll eat again and trade off with my wife and let her get to work while I spend the rest of the afternoon with my son. Then we’ll go for one more walk and do some meal prep before I finish the day.

What separates Status from other fitness magazines?
Status seems very involved with the fitness community close to me and I like that! It provides realistic motivation from others in the community.

If you could ask Status Fitness Magazine Editor-in-Chief Rodney Jang any industry question, what would that be?
From your experience, what do you think the next personal training platform will look like?

Describe your coaches and the impact they have on you?
I’ve actually never had a coach. I’ve always been self-taught and have coached myself through it all. I have to say that my wife Haylie has always been there to help and support me through every fitness endeavour. She’s made an incredible impact on me. She consistently makes sure I hold myself to a higher standard and always pushes me to do and be more. Without her, I’m not sure I would have had the success that I’ve had when it comes to business and fitness.

Can you share with us your goals for fitness and life?
Fitness: My biggest fitness-related goal would be to get my IFBB Pro card in Men’s Physique. I knew this since my very first show and I believe I have the potential to do it one day. I also want to grow my physique so I can have a stage weight of 190lbs.

Life: I recently got married, had a baby, bought a house, and bought my dream vehicle, so a few of my life goals have already been met! Next, we will travel the world!

5 things people don’t know about you?

• I absolutely love the outdoors and nature. It grounds me and allows me to decompress better than anything else.
• I have always felt drawn to entrepreneurship. Both my parents own their own businesses and it has shown me the way.
• My friends are everything to me. They truly are my chosen family.
• I am completely fascinated by space and all things in it!
• If I wasn’t doing fitness, my dream job would be a rally car racer.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned?
Nothing worth having comes easily.

5 most important attributes you see in a person?
Kindness, Generosity, Drive, Light-heartedness, Confidence.

If you could inspire one person, who would that be? And why?
If I could inspire one person, it would be my son. He is the light of my life and I hope I can help him become the best man he can be!

Who inspires you? And why?
My friend, training partner, fellow coach, and mentor Don Lam constantly inspires me. His drive and perseverance are extremely motivating. He, like my wife Haylie, constantly pushes and holds me to a higher standard. He has been an integral part of my success in both fitness and business. I wouldn’t be where I am today if it hadn’t been for Don’s kindness and tenacious attitude when it comes to winning in life.

What is your number one tip for people on their fitness journey?
Be consistent and intentional with everything that you do and make sure you have patience. Make a plan, stick to it and make sure you enjoy it. Reaching your fitness goals is tough and can take a long time, so it’s important that you have a routine that you truly enjoy. It is the true key to long-term success.

What does success look like for you?
To me, success is being able to live my life on my terms and not someone else’s. As long as I have my health, friends, family and the income to allow me to do what I enjoy, then that to me is a success. At the end of the day, happiness is what matters most, so as long as I am happy and those around me are too, then I’m perfectly content.

What is your favourite quote to live by?
“Don’t be a bitch.”

If that doesn’t work, then my next choice would be: “Boss up”. Both make me check myself and help me realize that anything is doable if I’m willing to put the work in. If things get tough. I’ll tell myself one of these quotes and it inspires me to keep pushing.

Connect with Zac: IG | Website 
Photos By: David Frod

My dad brought me to the gym as I was an overweight kid, was bullied, and made fun of & I put all my energy into losing weight. I became really really skinny & I didn’t like that either! Hence, I fell in love with weights the moment I started seeing progress back in 2009. I did many sports growing up such as Taekwondo, sailing, rock climbing, ice skating, playing football in tournaments back in high school, etc. Always been an outdoor rather than indoor person but I struggled in the early days to find something I really loved to do for a long time as a form of fitness-related hobby.

Age:
30

City, State/Province:
Singaporean living in Australia, North Albury, NSW

Country:
Australia

Occupation:
Detailer/Designer for Timber Residential Homes

In your opinion, is weight loss more of a fitness issue or a health issue and why?
I would say it depends on the individuals’ circumstances but both are equally important. To begin with, weight loss is crucial as most health issues are related to having a higher body fat percentage or an unhealthy lifestyle. Diet and strength training go hand in hand to counter the majority of the health issues the general community faces. After which, progression and fundamental movement/mobility or imbalance issues can be improved with fitness via the aid of weight loss, thus improving the overall quality of life.

If you have 100 tokens in total and you could apply them to the following categories, how many would you apply to each?

• Fitness level: 50
• Health level: 50

Again, both aid each other to go hand in hand. Having more tokens on the health level already means a lower fitness level, which does not necessarily mean the health level would be good in the long run, and vice versa.

Thoughts on HIIT, Powerlifting, TRX, Yoga, bodybuilding, and others?
All of these have their merits and downsides if done in excess. A good combination of a few will definitely benefit any individual. For example, yoga for mobility/stretching/mental well-being while powerlifting and bodybuilding in areas of muscle mass and strength gains, combined with the occasional cardiovascular activity such as HIIT and LISS/circuit training with bodyweight tools such as the TRX are always going to be a plus rather than doing one sport or utilizing a single tool only.

How did your passion for fitness start? And what was the biggest challenge you have faced on your journey?
It started when I realized it affected my sense of self-esteem/confidence greatly. Fast forward from 2009 to 2017, I began training myself not just physically but mentally and began preparing for my first bodybuilding contests with the diet as well as the training. My biggest challenge was moving on from losses and defeats. I’m generally a competitive person by nature and it’s either in the first place or nothing. Along the way, I learned how to manage that expectation and I kept going till today 2022 before turning pro with the INBA/PNBA Natural Bodybuilding Federation. My greatest moment in Bodybuilding was on 28th May 2022 when I achieved my Pro Card. I was struggling to bag that for 5 years after receiving countless second place & near misses for the overall.

Share your unique training/coaching methods?
I emphasize heavy mind-muscle connection, not just moving weight from point A to B. Time under tension, allowing maximum stimulus in the target muscle during training.

Trainer Philosophy:
Whether you believe you can, or whether you believe you can’t, you’re right.

Training Plan:
Previously, I train one body part a day but currently, I do a PUSH-PULL LEGS split. 3 days on 1 day off, 2 days on 1 day off and repeat weekly.

• Mon – Legs
• Tue–Push
• Wed–Pull
• Thur–REST
• Fri – Legs
• Sat–Push/Pull
• Sun – REST

Nutritional Plan:
I do carb cycling. Meaning the number of carbs I take depends on what body part I train.

Supplement Plan:
I am sponsored by JDN supplements from Brisbane. I take BCAAS intra-workout. Occasionally the pre-workout formula they have called Altered State along with 5g Creatine monohydrate and a Whey Protein Isolate and Cream of Rice with my oats in the morning and post-workout.

Please describe the importance of mental health?
Mental health is the crux of everything moving together like clockwork. Without a goal or a proper mental focus, you can’t function and most probably be doing everything for the sake of it or just going through the motions.

Take us through a typical day in your life for you?
During contest prep, I wake at 5 am and do cardio for 30-45mins at the gym or outside and head home to prep my meals for the day. Generally, I’m at work by 7-8 am and finish around 4-5 pm. I consume my meals on a strict time schedule so I can constantly feed the body with the right nutrients for growth and progress in my bodybuilding goals. After which I head to the gym and train + do cardio if needed the extra push before reaching home at around 7 pm. I then stretch or relax with my last meal before heading to bed by 10 pm. If I’m not competing, the amount of cardio I do is reduced and I try to eat in surplus for a proper muscle gain phase.

What separates Status from other fitness magazines?
Status magazine seems to be keeping up to date with the fitness industry and promotes athletes from all facets of training and goals. Compared to other magazines that only focus on one aspect of health and fitness, Status magazine appeals to me as they seem to show no discrimination and are open to people from all walks of life.

If you could ask Status Fitness Magazine Editor-in-Chief Rodney Jang any industry question, what would that be?
What do you think can take Status Fitness Magazine to its next level of growth and worldwide popularity.

Status Fitness Magazine runs model searches across North America including the largest one at the Arnold Classic for the Status cover. As part of the Status family, you will receive a special participation invite. How excited are you about this opportunity?
It would be an incredible honour and privilege to be an ambassador for Natural bodybuilding and inspire/motivate others to achieve their goals in terms of health and fitness.

Describe your coaches and the impact they have on you?
I’ve been blessed with kind and encouraging individuals who saw much potential in me and pushed me to give competing a try. Some helped me with advice and posing along the way as I was living in various states in Australia and competing with different federations. But for the most part, I have been self-coached and self-prepped for the major contests recently. They definitely gave me the inspiration and still do! It has been a huge impact on my motivation aspect of things in terms of being a good role model and will be in years to come, being a coach now myself too.

Do you have a sponsor? List them and what they mean to you?
They mean the world to me. I believe without them in my corner and support system has been a huge aid to me in my ups and downs over the past 5 years.

• Ryderwear – Providing me with the best quality apparel & lifting gear/shoes etc for my training.
• Sudio – Swedish wireless Bluetooth earpiece that has aided all my workouts to keep me focused along with their impeccable noise-cancelling qualities and sound system.
• Jdnsupplements – My current sponsors from Queensland Brisbane have provided me with quality nutrition and supplements that are crucial during any contest prep let alone regular training in the offseason.
• Wgcastlereagh – The owner back then loved how passionate I was and for 2 years in Sydney during my time there he let me train there which saved me a great deal financially in return for being the world gym ambassador. It was really tough as 2019-21 was the peak of covid as well

Can you share with us your goals for fitness and life?
My goal is to be healthy in the long run, longevity and still love what I do. I hope to be an inspiration to not just my local community but globally now that I have the pro card and the opportunity to compete in Vegas next year at the INBA/PNBA Natural Olympia, as some of the greatest natural bodybuilders have done before me. To be a role model and show others that a regular person like me can still achieve his or her dream of standing on stage with full-time professionals and still do well! I just got married to the most amazing woman, and she has also tried competing for the first time this year. In the near future, we plan to have kids and raise them up well, and that is another one of my current goals for my family!

5 things people don’t know about you?

• I have a Taekwondo black belt.
• I’ve won sailing competitions.
• I’m able to ice skate.
• I’ve been training for 13 years consistently now without missing a week of training.
• I have got a Master’s, Bachelor and Diploma in Architecture along with a Bachelor of International Business

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned?
Always set the standard on your own terms. Keep your head up through adversity and despite all the failures one goes through, as long as you keep going you’re not a failure and one day you will succeed just like I have with my multiple attempts to reach a higher level.

5 most important attributes you see in a person?
Honesty, Will, Discipline, Respect & Compassion.

If you could inspire one person, who would that be? And why?
I think it does not have to be a specific person in general but instead a category. I would love to be able to inspire say, for example, my role models. Because they have first inspired me and if I am able to return that inspiration and if they get inspired by me in return, then I can say I have succeeded because everything comes full circle.

Who inspires you? And why?
People who don’t know me–I would have to say, Arnold Schwarzenegger. He was the first that I’ve seen all over the cover of magazines back in the 90s when social media was not this big. Not only that, he succeeded in bodybuilding, but whatever he set his mind to, he accomplished and that was very, very inspiring for me.

People whom I’ve known personally–Nobuyuki Fukuda from Japan who lives in Adelaide. I met him in the Norwood World Gym and back when I saw him in the gym in the wee hours; he was the most conditioned and shredded Asian who was competing in Australia back then in 2017. He is also South Australia’s firefighter and personal trainer, raising two kids at the same time. He was really encouraging and humble and he told me that I should give competing  a try someday. I took up that challenge and here I am today. He has won both ICN AND ANB at a national level and was even on the front cover of the Australian Newspapers. I really respect him as he carries himself professionally and sees the best in others. I really miss him!

What is your number one tip for people on their fitness journey?
Stay consistent, don’t be afraid to eat, try new diets, learn, and always be a student. For those interested in competing, try new diets and training routines, find what works for you, and test out a steady caloric deficit over 5 months when you’re ready to see what muscle is under that flab/off-season weight you put on. Have a plan, have a goal, and execute it relentlessly. For the fitness journey in general, I would say have a short-term plan with a long-term vision. Take every week or day in bite sizes that help reach your goal realistically. Chances are if you only have a long-term plan in 5 years it won’t happen until you act on a daily basis eg. Getting to the gym consistently and prepping your meals daily consistently for over a week, then for a month, then for a year and so on.

What does success look like for you?
My greatest moment in bodybuilding was on 28th May 2022 when I achieved my Pro Card. I was struggling to bag that for 5 years after receiving countless second place & near-misses overall. To stand against the BEST at the Natural Olympia in Vegas. & Compete at World Championships at INBA Italy/Argentina/Netherlands/Korea/Mexico/Brazil with many other amazing athletes. BUT that being said, success to me is succeeding in all aspects of life. Work, family, friends, and personal goals or couple goals, then I can say I’ve succeeded.

What is your favourite quote to live by?
Same as my philosophy – Whether you believe you can or whether you believe you can’t, you’re right.

Connect with Marcus: IG | Website

I am originally from Toronto, Canada, but currently live in Florida with my wife and our two dogs. I’ve been a personal trainer since 2007, specializing in both mental and physical transformations. I struggled with/suffered from anorexia from the time I was 11 until I was 21. I was hospitalized three times before making the decision to sober up, and take back control of my life. I have competed in 13 bodybuilding shows all over North America, and I still compete in the natural women’s physique division.

Age:
34

Occupation:
Online coach

You are a health & fitness coach specializing in the amazing LGBT community. What is that like?
It’s the most rewarding career I’ve ever had. I get to help people just like me realize there’s life OUTSIDE of anxiety. So many of my clients come to me desperate to make a transformation not just in the way they look, but also in the way they think and feel and talk to themselves. I get to transform their limiting beliefs and their self-sabotaging behaviours AND help them lose weight/gain muscle. It’s the best of all the worlds.

You also are a Mentor with Trainer Revenue Multiplier? What does your role entail? How do you help others, and what difference do you try to make with each pupil?
My role involves running the TRM 10k program. That’s our flagship course that helps new trainers reach the 10k per month mark. As part of that program, I host the weekly group calls, co-host the biweekly group question-and-answer calls, and coach the participants one-on-one twice a month. I also host the weekly TRM podcast streamed across Apple iTunes, Spotify, sticker, etc. I also help Mathew host our ‘Discovery day’ seminars, masterminds, or any one-day events he wants to run.

I help our trainers by showing them what a life of financial and time freedom looks like. I teach them the unique principles of TRM to guide them in a way where they can sell themselves (and their services) without sounding salesy. It’s rewarding because I get to show people that you can make as much money as you want to make, have as much free time as you want to have, and MOST IMPORTANTLY, never stop impacting the lives of your clients. You can build a custom fitness business and thrive doing it.

What is it like working with Mathew Park?
The first word that comes to mind is “fun.” It’s fun to work with Mathew. His passion and energy are contagious, and always keeps things light, so I never feel bored or like I’m ‘forced’ to do something. It’s also inspiring to see the excitement he brings to each new day and the challenge.

As a pro physique competitor, share your struggles, challenges and wins you experience preparing for a show?
I would say the biggest struggle I face when competing is hunger; though not so much the physiological effects, but rather the psychological. After 10 years of an eating disorder, promising myself I would never go back there, it’s hard to acknowledge that the hunger that comes with contest prep is normal. As far as a challenge, I would say it’s continuing to preach my message of ‘moderation and balance’ to my audience and clients, despite not necessarily LIVING that message when I’m in prep. In terms of my wins, it definitely would be inspiring my clients. Showing them that there’s nothing they can’t do; if I can keep my business thriving, keep my wife happy, and keep my mental health stable – All why getting myself down to 8% body fat – then they have no excuse not to go after that THEY want.

You help shape and change people’s lives every day. What does that mean to you?
It means that this career is so much bigger than myself. It means that I don’t know if I can/will ever retire. It’s not even a career, but rather a calling. Something I look forward to doing every single day and think about all the time.

Who inspires you and why?
My mom inspires me. As the child of two Holocaust survivors, she was taught that there was nothing she couldn’t do. If her parents could survive, she had an obligation to make something of herself. She stayed with my dad despite his diagnosis of Lou Gehrig’s disease, and even after he passed away and she lost her soulmate, she didn’t give up or give in. Nor after her two cancer diagnoses. She kept going and showed me that nothing can ever bring her down.

If you could inspire one person who would that be and why?
Oh jeez. I guess my answer would be “Why do I have to pick just one?” I love social media and having a multitude of platforms to post on, so I can inspire as many as possible all the time!

What separates Status from other fitness magazines?
I love Status’ focuses not just on the competitor, but the model, the mom, and the teen looking to get inspired. Status takes a moderate and balanced approach to fitness and health, therefore making sure it’s not intimidating.

Future fitness goals and plans?
Continue to grow my online following for the sole purpose of trying to inspire, motivate, educate, and entertain the maximum amount of people. I want to get my WNBF pro card as well in 2022!

5 things people don’t know about you:

• I grew up with cats. It wasn’t until I met my wife that I became a dog person.
• Phish Food is my favourite Ben & Jerry’s flavour
• I have 3 older siblings in San Francisco, Jersey, and Toronto.
• I prefer Pumping Iron to Generation Iron.
• I starting competing before Women’s Physique was a division (I’m old!).

Take us through a typical day in your life?
I wish I was more exciting! I train from 7-9 am every day, answer emails or make programs for clients between 9-11, and then spend the next 4-6 hours doing one-to-one business mentoring calls, answering DMs, or finishing more e-mails. Around 5, I close my laptop for the night, and spend time with my family, walking, reading, watching TV, or exploring new parts of Florida.

What does life look like for you in 5 years?
It’s so hard to say because 5 years ago, I didn’t picture my life looking anything like this! I know for sure I’ll be speaking on much bigger stages inspiring people in both business/fitness /mental health. I will be growing my platforms, reputation, and authority in the industry. Beyond that, it’s hard to say!

Connect with Jamie: IG | Website

I grew up being pretty active. I was a competitive dancer and my brother played sports. My family was always doing something active. In college, I neglected my physical well-being. Once I graduated, I started to take care of myself again and then I became a mom. Like most new moms, I put myself on the back burner to take care of my family. As time went on, I began to realize that the better I felt, the better I could serve my family. After I had my 3rd baby, I decided to take care of myself again, and see what I could do physically. That is when I fell in love with not only training for myself but helping other women feel good and reach their goals as well. It’s now my mission to help women have a transformation from the inside, and out.

Age:
37

City, State/Province:
Tallahassee FL.

Country:
USA

Occupation:
Fitness Trainer and Coach.

In your opinion, is weight loss more of a fitness issue or a health issue and why?
It’s an overall health issue. Yes, we as a whole need to move our bodies more, but we also need to take into consideration what we are putting into our bodies as well. And not only that, but we also tend to neglect our habits (sleep, stress, mindset) which all make a difference in our health as well.

If you have 100 tokens in total and you could apply them to the following categories, how many would you apply to each?

• Fitness level: 50
• Health level: 50

Thoughts on HIIT, Powerlifting, TRX, Yoga, bodybuilding, and others?
HIIT was my first love. It is what led me to become a trainer. But now, I love strength training and Crossfit. Anything that involves some weights and cardio I’m in. But I would say I’m well-rounded. Give me just about anything that involves movement and I’m in.

How did your passion for fitness start? And what was the biggest challenge you have faced on your journey?
The biggest challenge prioritizing time for all the things God has laid on my heart to do. I have big goals and dreams, but I want to make sure I am following where he leads.

Share your unique training/coaching methods?
As a person of faith, I help women begin to see themselves as they were uniquely created by God. There’s no need to fit into someone else’s mould, but to step into who He created them to be and do it well. I use faith and scripture to help transform our minds and hearts so the outward will follow.

Trainer philosophy:
More is not better. Better is better.

Training Plan:
Crossfit 1-2x a week, up and lower splits along with HIIT.

Nutritional Plan:
Currently counting macros but typically intuitive eater.

Supplement Plan:
Iron, Vitamin C, Bad Athletic Protein and pre-workout, Pro and prebiotics.

Do you prefer to take and recommend all-natural (no sugar, no artificial colours/flavours/sweeteners) supplements or supplements with artificial flavours and sweeteners? And Why?
Natural, but I will have pure stevia or xylitol/monk fruit. I try to stay as wholistic and natural as possible, even within my beauty products. Obviously, it’s not 100% but I try my best.

Please describe the importance of mental health?
I believe our health starts in our minds. What we feed our minds, we become and start to believe.

Take us through a typical day in the life for you?
Start off my day with prayer and Bible reading. Getting my mind and soul centred on God first. Then I get myself and my kids ready for school, come home and have breakfast and either lead online fitness classes or do my own workout.

After that, I spend the rest of my morning and afternoon working on client stuff, content creation, answering emails, etc. Then I pick up my kids from school and put on my mom’s hat. I make dinner, run them to sports, or do home work with them. We spend the evening together and after they go to bed is my downtime. I’m typically in bed by 10 and asleep by 10:30/11.

What separates Status from other fitness magazines?
I love how it features athletes and trainers from all backgrounds, walks of life, and styles.

Status Fitness Magazine runs Model Searches across North America including the largest one at the Arnold Classic for the Status cover. As part of the Status family, you will receive a special participation invite. How excited are you about this opportunity?
That would be an amazing and humbling opportunity. I would be over the moon and honored to be selected.

Describe your coaches and the impact they have on you?
I’ve had different coaches throughout my life that have helped shape me into the person I am today. My current coaches push and inspire me to push beyond my comfort zone and they pull strengths out of me that I didn’t realize I had. But it’s more than physical. They challenge me to be a better mom, wife, and friend along with seeking God with all my heart, mind, and strength.

Can you share with us your goals for fitness and life?
Lord willing, I hope to stay active all my life. I’m so inspired by the older generation that continue to show up for themselves day after day. It may look different as we age, but I never want to use my age as an excuse to not be active.

5 things people don’t know about you?

• My first job was as a spiel actor on the Jaws ride and met my husband there.
• I back up danced for AJ Gil from the first American Idol.
• I don’t like avocados.
• I applied to be on Survivor twice and the Broken Skull Challenge.
• I have a tv and radio broadcast degree.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned?
Put God first in all I do.

5 most important attributes you see in a person?
Loyalty, Kindness, Teachability, Selfless, Fun.

If you could inspire one person, who would that be? And why?
I hope to inspire women in general, both young and older. I want to inspire young women to chase their dreams and not be afraid to take risks. To not care what their peers think and to follow the call God has for their life. And I want to inspire moms to not give up on themselves just because they have kids. It will look different, but when we take care of ourselves, we can better take care of others.

Who inspires you? And why?
So many! Alisa Keeton, Ashley Horner, Chalene Johnson, Julie Foucher and many more.

What is your number one tip for people on their fitness journey?
Start small. Don’t try to take on too much at once. Build upon those small things and become consistent in them.

Consistency+effort+time= results.

What does success look like for you?
Getting to the end of my life and knowing that I loved God and followed Him with all my heart and loved and took care of people.

What is your favourite quote to live by?
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will guide your paths straight.”

Connect with Torie: IG | Website
Cover Photo By: Desirée V. Cáceres

I have been an athlete my entire life starting at the age of six as a swimmer. My love for the gym started in my early teenage years and continues to this day.

Age:
55

City, State/Province:
Lawrenceville, Georgia

Country:
United States of America

Occupation:
Certified Personal trainer and nutritionist.

In your opinion, weight loss is more of a fitness issue or a health issue and why?
It is both. If you do not live a fit and healthy lifestyle, you are going to have health issues. It has been proven, and said by many doctors, either change your eating habits, and start exercising, or end up living a much shorter life.

Thoughts on HIIT, Powerlifting, TRX, Yoga, bodybuilding, others?
I am not one for HIIT or Powerlifting. Again, I am old school, but I use TRX, I do yoga, and I am an IFBB PRO, so bodybuilding is a given.

How did your passion for fitness start? And what was the biggest challenge you have faced on your journey?
My passion started in m yearly teenage years, but my real fitness journey started 4 years ago on 12/04/2017. That is when I got serious and started training to become a bodybuilder. Little did I know that I would turn pro in 2019. In August of 2017, I came home from the lake not feeling good, and I took a long look in the mirror. I started crying. I did not like the reflection in the mirror. I stepped on the scale and cried even more. That is when my real fitness journey began.

Share your unique training/coaching methods?
I am old school. I believe in eating clean and hitting the weights, along with cardio for your heart.

Trainer Philosophy:
Burn more than you take in.

Training Plan:
Weight training, and cardio.

Nutritional Plan:
Eat clean and eat 5-6 small meals every 2-3 hours to keep your metabolism going. Most people think you must eat only three times a day, and or starve yourself, which will only make it worse down the road in trying to lose weight

Supplement Plan:
Take your standard supplements vitamins A-Z (multi), and I believe in holistic care, so speaking with a holistic doctor, and getting your bloodwork done can allow you to know what you need.

Do you prefer to take and recommend all natural (no sugar, no artificial colors/flavors/sweeteners) supplements or supplements with artificial flavors and sweeteners? And why?
I do not like artificial anything. It is harmful.

Please describe the importance of mental health?
Mental health is important in every stage of life. It helps determine how we react to certain situations, stress, and make healthy choices.

Take us through a typical day in life for you?
I get up at 3:30 am M-F to get ready to do my cardio and hit the weights. I have my food already prepped, and I have a small cooler that travels with me. I am in the gym by 5:00 am and done by 7:30-8:00 am. After the gym, I will run whatever errands that need to be taken off, then I will come back home and start collaborating with my existing clients. If I am in prep, I will hit cardio again that afternoon, then come home shower, and be in bed by 8-9:00 pm.

What separates Status from other fitness magazines?
The magazine is geared toward health and fitness across the board, and not just to competitive bodybuilders.

If you could ask Status Fitness Magazine Editor in Chief Rodney Jang any industry question, what would that be?
What is your opinion on what is happening in the bodybuilding industry this past year, with all these deaths?

Status Fitness Magazine runs model searches across North America including the largest one at the Arnold Classic for the Status cover. As part of the Status family, you will receive a special participation invite. How excited are you for this opportunity?
I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity. Being that I am 55 years old, I feel like I am a fitting example not only for people around my age but the youth as well. People my age can relate to me and see that you can still be fit and healthy as you get older. As for the youth, they can look at me, and go, oh wow, I hope I can look like her when I get older. I feel like I am a fitting example in the fitness industry for all ages.

Describe your coaches and the impact they have on you?
I love my coaches. My coach is Trey Hodge, and he makes sure that my bloodwork and my health are intact. Everywhere, from my diet, and my workouts, and my mental state. Janeen Lankowski is my posing coach. Posing is important to the sport, and she is the Master of Posing. Janeen makes sure that I hit all my spots by looking comfortable.

Do you have a sponsor? List them and what they mean to you?
No, I do not. I have not been competing professionally, but for 4 years now, and I am not well known, yet.

Can you share with us your goals for fitness and life?
When the day comes that I do not compete anymore, I will continue my healthy lifestyle and workout regime.

5 things people don’t know about you?

• I have a big heart, and I do not have time for drama.
• I am a loyal friend, but if you cross me, I am done with you.
• I am very enthusiastic about being an American, I love my family, and I love my country.
• I am an advocate for our Veterans.
• My favorite band is Five Finger Death Punch.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned?
Get allergy evaluated before you decide to get vaccinated, or you could end up with a bad reaction, and end up in the ER as I did, and make sure you know the difference between a real friend and an acquaintance.

5 most important attributes you see in a person?
Having a great personality, Intelligence, Sense of humour, Confidence, Cheerful outlook.

If you could inspire one person, who would that be? And why?
I am quite sure that I have already inspired my son. I want him to grow up being healthy and happy, and live a quality life.

Who inspires you? And why?
There are many people who inspire me, but the greatest inspirations are my clients that have decided to make a change in their lifestyle to live a healthy and fit life.

What is your number one tip for people on their fitness journey?
Always keep in mind that it is your journey, and not anyone else’s, you are an individual, so you cannot compare yourself to anyone but yourself.

What does success look like for you?
Even though I have not won any major titles, I have already won and become successful by changing my lifestyle over 4 years ago.

What is your favourite quote to live by?
Life’s a journey, not a sprint.

Connect with Janet: IG
Photos By: Doug Scalia | Phil C Stokes | E-G Pro