Amateur Bodybuilder Of The Week: Daniel Left Sports And Began Bodybuilding

Daniel used the ethics he learned from sports to commit to an exercise regimen that prepared him for the stage!

Q

How did your bodybuilding journey begin?

I've always been interested in the human body: the way it works, how it moves, but most importantly the definition and size of the muscle. I've been competitive in sports my whole life. In 2nd grade one of my teachers pulled me to the side and asked if I wanted to participate in track.

As I grew older, I was heavily involved in other sports such as baseball, basketball, and football. My tenacity to have a glorified figure grew tremendously. I always lifted weights with teammates and peers, but after college I didn't have the same group of friends around to go to the gym like I used to. During that time I took that opportunity to focus on myself and work toward competing in a competition.

Earlier this year, I was ready to fully commit and enter a bodybuilding competition. I was ready for results, so I switched my eating habits to cut weight and focused on a workout routine that would help me achieve my competition weight.


"I am fascinated by the fact
that everyone who competes in bodybuilding has a similar mindset for a healthy lifestyle and to
mold their bodies like warriors
getting ready for a battle."

What supplements gave you the greatest gains?

My goal was to become more lean and defined. I took a supplement for energy in the morning, protein powder throughout the day, and a pre-workout supplement.

How did your passion for bodybuilding emerge?

I grew up playing sports and have always been athletic and had a competitive edge. Being in the weight room, you always want to be the best. You want to be able to exemplify the discipline and hard work you perform in the weight room, to accomplish the goal to be the best. One day I'll be old and look back; I'll wish I had the strength I do today.

That is a huge motivator for me. It makes me want to go to the gym right now. I am fascinated by the fact that everyone who competes in bodybuilding has a similar mindset for a healthy lifestyle and to mold their bodies like warriors getting ready for a battle. You are surrounded by people with the same beliefs and attitude that you have.

What or who motivated you to be a bodybuilder?

I think that I have always wanted to be one. I have pictures of myself as a kid and teenager doing different poses. I have always wanted to be one and I was ready to make that dream come true.

Where did you go for inspiration?

I look for inspiration in the gym, my failures that I have had in the past, and the goal of improving myself every day.

"I have always wanted to be [a bodybuilder] and I was ready to make that dream come true."

What are your future bodybuilding plans?

My plan is to prepare and concentrate on one show at a time. Who knows... Maybe one day I will go pro.

What is the most important bodybuilding tip?

Always squeeze and work your muscles individually. Be in tune with your body and control your workouts.

Who is your favorite bodybuilder?

My favorite bodybuilder is Ed Castillo. I met Ed and he took the time to mentor me to become a bodybuilder.

How did bodybuilding.com help you reach your goals?

I looked up several different articles and workout regimens. It was a great aid to help me study the material and poses. I was also able to order some things to help me look my best during the competition.

Daniel's Favorite Gym Tracks

Linkin Park
"In the End"
Miguel
"Adorn"
Marvin Sapp
"Never Would Have
Made It"
Eminem
"Not Afraid"
Contest History
  • Spartan Natural Classic - June 14, 2014