Sunday morning. Today is back day, which means 490+ lbs. of deadlifts, countless pull-ups, 250 lbs. seated rows, and some rope rows to finish up. After that comes a boring meal consisting of chicken or buffalo with rice. Not exactly the mainstream idea of fun, huh? Bodybuilding, like any other sport, asks for 24/7 dedication.
Why would anyone do this to himself or herself? Vanity? Sure, but that’s not all. Personally, the constant drive to better myself is what fuels me. To see how far I can go, pushing my body to the outer limits. People have called me a freak before, and I honestly feel appreciated when I hear it.
Most trainees do not have such extreme goals, but they too strive to be different. They want to change: get healthier, more fit, better looking, more lean. In short, they want to be everything the average citizen is not.
Training is a race against others; you only compete against yourself. It is also a privilege, not everyone has the means or the ability to pursue it. So embrace the pain and the stale meals, it leads to something bigger.
Until next time,
Maik Wiedenbach
Maik Wiedenbach is a Hall of Fame swimmer turned bodybuilding champion and fitness model featured in Muscle & Fitness and Men’s Journal. An NYU adjunct professor and award-winning coach, he founded New York’s most sought-after personal training gym.