Amateur Bodybuilder Of The Week: Tyler Became A Fitness Model

How did your bodybuilding journey begin?

My bodybuilding journey began at the age of 15. I played a lot of sports as a kid, and by the time I was a freshman in high school the idea of ramping up sports training with weightlifting became a necessity. I went to school with kids several years older than me, and it made me want to be bigger as fast I could get there!

That freshman year, a senior from my high school was hired to be a model for an event at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, which was near where we grew up in Canton, Ohio. It was a promotional event, and he got to keep the photos taken at the event. He received all kinds of attention for it from the girls at school, and I remember thinking that was just the coolest thing. I went home and looked up everything I could about how to be a male model, where to start, who could help me, and what it would take. I knew it was something I could excel at. I just needed to find the right people in the industry to help me.

"I love being able to positively help people transform for the better in any way I can."

By age 16 I had been training for seven months to attend the International Model and Talent Association weeklong event. I was given several offers and I accepted a contract with Empire Model Management and No. 23 Models. By age 18 I had worked for several major clothing lines, including Abercrombie, and had landed my first magazine interview with INK Magazine.

At 23, I auditioned for a TV show on MTV called "Are You the One?" I made the top 20 guys, but they only selected 10. For a while I was crushed, really disappointed in myself. I couldn't figure out why I wasn't chosen. I tormented myself mentally over not being good enough.

I needed to keep believing in my dream and my ability to conquer. I began to change from a print and commercial model into a fitness model. I studied everything I could. I became a certified personal trainer, a certified nutritionist, and used my knowledge and drive to transform myself. I cut to a lean 7 percent body fat, with a great six-pack and a burning desire to prove to myself. In 2014 I switched agencies and decided to take on representation by Wilhelmina Models. This representation in all major U.S. markets helped to catapult my exposure for landing jobs in this industry.

I am currently a Cellucor affiliate. I own TDH Health and Fitness LLC and am training clients both in the gym and online through workout regimens and nutritional plans. I love being able to positively help people transform for the better in any way I can. My work is my passion, and I wouldn't have it any other way.

"I am hooked on the gym, proper nutrition, and the ability to sculpt my body day in and day out."

How did your passion for bodybuilding emerge?

My passion for bodybuilding and the drive to create my perfect physique stemmed from modeling. When I first started modeling, I was 15, and had not attempted any form of weightlifting. I knew nothing about nutrition. As I started to take everything more seriously, I educated myself on how I could improve my physique and create the body I needed to be successful in the industry. I was hooked on the gym, proper nutrition, and the ability to sculpt my body day in and day out.

My passion for bodybuilding emerged around age 17-18. I was finally booking jobs as a model. I knew modeling was my passion, and by educating myself and staying dedicated to my dreams I could create the physique I would be happy to show off. Six years later I couldn't be happier with life.

What or who motivated you?

What motivates me about bodybuilding is the 100-percent dedication and self-discipline it takes to succeed. Your body is a direct reflection of your work ethic, priorities, lifestyle, and how you care about your health. A healthy muscular physique is the visual way of saying, "I strive to be the best version of myself at all times." People will judge you based on their initial impressions. Why not let your body make a really good statement when they do.

Where did you go for inspiration?

Bodybuilding.com and Instagram! I love reading Bodybuilding.com articles of success stories, workout tips and routines, and professional advice, and I stay motivated daily by following all my favorite professionals on Instagram.

"I get fulfillment from getting myself to look a certain way, and to perform to the expectations of only myself."

What are your future bodybuilding plans?

My future plans are to keep on pushing. I want to establish myself as one of the great fitness models of my generation. Guys I idolize such as Colin Wayne, Lazar Angelov. I want to keep booking fitness modeling jobs and become a leader in the industry. I can lead by example, and selflessly do everything I can to help motivate and inspire people to chase their dreams.

I have never had a desire to compete in men's physique. I get fulfillment from getting myself to look a certain way, and to perform to the expectations of only myself. I will keep training clients, and helping wonderful people transform into healthier versions of themselves. I love bodybuilding, and the healthy fit lifestyle that goes along with it. I will do this for the rest of my life, and I look forward to meeting all my future goals along the way.

What is the most important bodybuilding tip?

Believe in the process! You can't focus on day-to-day results, but achieving longer term goals. Trust what you are committing all your efforts to and it will always pay off when you stay focused!

Who is your favorite bodybuilder?

Lazar Angelov has a phenomenal physique and amazing aesthetics. I love his demeanor and professionalism.

How did Bodybuilding.com help you reach your goals?

Bodybuilding.com has helped me in numerous ways. I find inspiration in seeing and reading other people's success stories. Seeing amazing transformations, overcoming of obstacles, and the dedication and heart everyone puts into bettering their lives. I really enjoy the array of topics I can educate myself on to help me reach each of my goals.