World Physique

WP: I am so happy to be interviewing THE Bradley Aubry, Musclemania Pro Bodybuilder! Thank you for allowing me to interview you! Can you tell our readers a little about yourself?

BA: Well Tammy, I am a Pro Natural Bodybuilder living life for God. He has blessed me with a beautiful wife and son. I have also been blessed with a great opportunity to voice out the importance of being natural and staying healthy through my ventures in the fitness industry.

WP: God is a very important part of my life, too. I know you have been in this industry for a while, what year did you enter?

BA: I have been in the fitness industry since 2000.

WP: What made you decide to get into the fitness industry?

BA: I truly believe it was my purpose in life to be in the fitness industry. God has a purpose for everyone and as a natural pro bodybuilder and personal trainer, I have been given the opportunity to minister to others in the field of fitness/sports that goals can be accomplished without the assistance of performance enhancing drugs. I would also have to say the fulfillment I get from helping individuals achieve their fitness goals.

WP: You are also a Personal Trainer. What is your educational background? What are your certifications?

BA: I received my Associates Degree in Physical Education and had plans to get my Bachelors in Health and Wellness but, then life happened. I was blessed with my son, Marcelo Rene Aubry, so I had to put it on hold. But you know you are never too old to continue your education, so I definitely have plans to go back to school and obtain my Bachelors. I am currently certified through ISSA in Fitness Trainer, Performance Nutrition, and Fitness Therapy.

WP: I have to look up to you for that. Going back to school is very popular in our age group. I hope you keep your goal in sight because that would be outstanding. ISSA is a very 'high profile' certification so, you must be pretty educated. How long have you been a Personal Trainer?

BA: I have been a Personal Trainer for about 8 yearrs now.

WP: We all know there are a lot of Personal Trainers. What do you feel sets you apart from all other Personal Trainers out there?

BA: I would have to say the passion I have for training my clients and getting them results. I always believe that knowledge is power, so I am always keeping myself educated in the science of personal training and nutrition. I feel, with this in hand, aides me on giving my clients the best results.

WP: Great answer. Passion and caring will set you apart. Where do you train your clients? Do you train them in a gym, at home, or where?

BA: I train my clients at a studio. I run my own personal training business called Versafit at a studio called Flex One Fitness located in Trinity, Florida.

WP: How much time per day do you typically spend with a client?

BA: It pretty much depends on the type of package the client had purchased. But, typically it is usually 30 minutes or one hour sessions.

WP: How many days do you suggest your clients to work out in a week?

BA: To obtain good results from his or her exercise program, I prefer that they train with me at least 3 times a week at a minimum.

WP: What forms of exercise do you find to be the most effective for the following. To gain mass?

BA: I prefer free weights and a mix of power lifting movements when it comes to adding mass.

WP: To lose weight?

BA: To lose weight? I believe aerobics is the best form of exercise.

WP: As a Personal Trainer, you are always having to motivate your clients. What motivates you?

BA: The happiness of my family motivates me everyday of my life. They are the reason why I strive to be the best I can be in this world. I thank God every day for my source of motivation.

WP: Always treasure what God gives you. So many people don't. What helps you get up each morning?

BA: Simply, it’s the blessing from God that keeps me getting up every morning.

WP: Okay, now let's talk about your modeling. I've seen some of your pictures which are outstanding. When did you start modeling?

BA: I actually got into fitness modeling in 2008. It expresses your personality, hard work (physique), and unique look through a picture. This new venture in modeling is becoming a great one. I want to do various works such as fashion, artistic, fitness, and other creative shoots. I feel it’s a great way to get more exposure.

WP: Expression is the key word in modeling. You picked the right words! Who have you worked with?

BA: I have had the pleasure to work with BBpics, LLMT-Imagez, and Gulf South Photography. I plan to add more to the list in 2009.

WP: Great photographers in this industry. I know you will do well in modeling. What are you goals with your career in modeling?

BA: My ultimate goal would be to get a magazine cover. That would be awesome. You know they say its best to aim for the moon because, if you missed, you will land among the stars. I will be aiming for the moon this year.

WP: Do I see a World Physique cover coming with Bradley? Ha-ha! Hint-hint! How does your training differ when you are modeling and when you are not?

BA: My training pretty much stays the same. One thing that I will now be doing this year and years to come is to maintain a lean look year round. It will allow me to be able to get more modeling opportunities and to be ready any time for a photo shoot. I was all about the old school mentality of off-season, getting as big as a house, and then around competition time, getting lean down. This old school way of thinking caused me to lose out on photo shoot opportunities.

WP: Yes, I know what you mean. There has been many outstanding models and athletes we had to skip on with my other magazine, "Real Gainz" due to that. What future projects do you have planned?

BA: I already have a couple of photo shoots lined up for 2009, starting in March. I plan to also model for a new clothing line called Silverbac that plans to make a bigger splash in the athletic wear industry this year. So, make sure you check out silverbac.com. I also plan to be available for any possible photo shoots through out the year this year.

WP: I will be sure to check that out. Maybe we can do something with them through the magazine when we publish in Spring 2009 (if the economy gets better). Let's talk a little about your competition history. I know you have competed because you're famous for it. what titles have you won. What competitions have you entered and what place did you take?

BA: Yes, I definitely do compete. Ha-ha! It’s truly a passion of mine. I have a competitive nature, so I love doing bodybuilding competitions. In total, I have competed in five shows. Recently, I won my Natural Pro Card thru the Musclemania Organization at the Fitness Florida in November, 2008. My first three shows were NPC sanctioned. I competed in my first show in 2004, in the Hurricane Bay. I place third in the open middleweight class.

From 2004 to 2007, I did a lot of soul searching and decided to devote my life to God. God had blessed me with my son in 2006 and it was time for me to travel on the right path for my family sake. At that point, I overcame my desire of using performance enhancing drugs to compete.

WP: Hold on, Bradley! Did I just hear you say that you had to overcome your desire of using performance enhancing drugs to compete?

BA: Yes, I had to overcome my desire to take steriods.

WP: So, what you are saying to me is that you got off of steriods and still came back to win your Pro card through an all natural organization?

BA: Yes! In 2007, I entered my first drug tested NPC show, which I placed 1st in the open middleweight class, at the Florida Gold Cup. It was a sign that I made the right and intelligent choice to continue my bodybuilding career as a drug-free bodybuilder. In June 2008, I competed in the Tampa Bay Classic a non-tested show to see how I would fair among those that are not drug-free. I place second in the middleweight class out of seven competitors. I was proud of that placing because of what I knew I was up against.

WP: I respect how you tested yourself with others that are using enhancing drugs. So, what happened next?

BA: Well, My last two shows, I competed in the Musclemania Organization, which is a drug-tested bodybuilding federation. My first show at Musclemania was one week after the Tampa Bay Classic, which I just finish competing in. I went to Musclemania Universe, drained out and not stage ready. I place a poor 13th place. I was so disappointed with that placing, that I had to compete again, before the year was over. That would be the best choice I made because, at the second Musclemania show, I won overall and was crowned the new Natural Musclemania Pro Bodybuilder. For with God nothing is impossible – Luke 1:37

WP: I have chill bumps! What an amazing story! So, you can still become Pro Status even after steriods! Your story will be so inspirational to so many! You mentioned something to me before about, "...is the comfort level of being natural." What did you mean by that?

BA: What I mean by that is, not having to meet someone on a corner street to pick up your steriods without getting caught by the cops. Not having to worry about if the bottle of steriods I got is real or fake. Not having to worry about what organs might be failing me now. Not having to worry about a dealer stealing my money, etc. It's a true life of HELL when you choose to take steriods!

WP: I've never have taken or dealt with drugs before but, that sounds horrid! But, most of the time, when a athlete step on stage that is taking steriods, it screams 'steriods'. That is, if a person knows what to look for and if they are on steriods. So, why be scared when you're on the streets? So, why did you even start steriods to begin with?

BA: The use of steriods came from my insecurities and, the fact that I wouldn't amount to anything worthy. I feel It was because of not receiving enough love from my parents. Don't get me wrong, my parents are great parents. They have worked really hard to give us the best life possible. Due to that, they were always busy working and striving to place us in a high class living environment and for that, I love my parents very much. I guess I was one of those kids that always needed confirmation or praise from them to feel that I was appreciated. That's when drugs entered my life. And, from what I have learned, steriods is a gateway to other drugs. I went to the doctor and he told me my liver enzymes and kidney enzymes were low, and I was beginning to develop irregular heartbeats. Even with all that said, I still didn't stop taking steriods because, I felt it was making what I was becoming. I thought I was becoming somebody because of the attention I got from my size and appearance.

WP: Now, I have a tear in my eye. That is so sad. You must have felt like a prisoner in your own body. What was the hardest thing you had to overcome getting off of steriods?

BA: The hardest was not getting the attention and respect I was use to getting because of my apperance that the steriods created. I didn't want to become that scrawny little guy. People say that it's not addictiing, but it is. Drugs that make you feel good are addicting and steriods was making me feel good because of how it made me look, so it became an addiction.

WP: What were the side effects of quitting?

BA: The side effects of quitting was depression. It caused me to feel worthless again. Steriods made me believe that, without it, I could never achieve a bodybuilder's physique.

WP: Well, look at you now! You've won your Pro Status after overcoming all of that. I am just in awe! To think of you pulling out of the industry to overcome use of steriods, and then coming back better then ever! That is truly amazing! I don't even know what to say! You are living proof that a athlete can still make it big even without the use of steriods. How did you cope during this time? It had to be hard!

BA: God and my family was my remedy through this. The birth of my son made me realize that life is about more than just self gratification. It's about making scarifices for yourself, your love ones and God. Life is about living through the challenges that will soon become blessings for you and all those that you love. The willingness to take on those challenges so I can be healthy and live a long life for my family took me to a journey of becoming a drug free bodybuilder.

WP: You know what? I would really be honored if you would join our team, Team World Physique, and write a column each month that will teach and speak for you. I think this would be motivational and educational to so many people! Will you join us, Bradley?

BA: God has blessed me in 2009. Yes, I would be honored to do so!

WP: We will talk about this after the interview. So, before we end this discussion about steriods, tell me what your slogan is now.

BA: 'Stay Natural. Stay Real".

WP: You just moved me with that story. Not just by the accomplishments you made but, by the passion you spoke it with. I can tell you have a true love for this industry. That makes such a difference in this industry. Even with true passion, everyone has likes and dislikes about this industry. What do you like and dislike about competing?

BA: The only dislike I have about competing is finding myself spending more time at the gym and not with my family. What I like, I mean what I love, about competing is the competitions, the posing routines, the pose downs, the trophy presentations. The list goes on and on...Ha-ha!

WP: I should have known that answer was coming! You just love competition! What would you change about the judges in the competitions?

BA: I would change the politics that goes on among the judges.

WP: Another great answer! From your past competitions, what have you learned you need to correct or work on for the physique you are aiming for?

BA: I have learned to never be satisfied. So there will never be a physique I will achieve and be content with when it comes to competing. Don’t get me wrong, I am always thankful for what I have been blessed with. I just want to make sure I can come into each new show with improvements in my physique and presentation.

WP: You compete against yourself and that's a winner talking! What are your strengths and weaknesses in bodybuilding?

BA: My strength in bodybuilding would be my ability to stay consistent on my diet throughout the pre and off-season. And, I would have to say my weakness in bodybuilding is the need to bring up some of my body parts.

WP: Any shout outs?

BA: Yes, I will like to make a shout to my wife for being my number one supporter. My son, who has fueled my life into the right direction. To God, who has blessed me with a beautiful life. I want to give a shout to my twin sister, Barbara, for always believing in me and preaching to me about the benefits of converting to a drug-free bodybuilder. Also, I want to give a shout out to my homie, James Adams, who is a Personal Trainer at Lifestyles Family Fitness and was my best man at my wedding. He believed that I was a converted drug-free bodybuilder when others felt convince that I was still taking steriods. Another great friend of mine, Steve kotvas, was so inspired by my focus on being the best natural bodybuilder that he assisted me financially when I was preparing for my boydbuilding competitions; homies for life. To John Jessie, owner of Silverbac Clothing line for letting me be be a part of his blessing. And last but not forgotten, thank you Tammy Renee', for allowing me to be interviewed by an up-and-coming magazine, World Physique. Thank you. You guys are the best and a true gift from God. Thank you for making this journey such a rewarding one. God Bless.

WP: Okay, now you're playing my heart! You know you don't have to thank me. I am just thankful for you! You are allowing me to get your word out and you have some loud words to say to this industry! Enough of the 'mushy'! I don't do 'mushy' well! On with the interview! Ha-ha! Everyone wants to know how a champion in this industry works out. Explain your workouts to me.

BA: I use to train 5-6 days a week, but with the knowledge obtained throughout the years, I've learn that rest is crucial for muscle recovery and making gains. So, now I train 4days a week. I focus on periodization training. Every 4-6 weeks, my training program is changed to shock the muscle. Training program varies. Sometimes I go very heavy 4sets x 6-8reps and with some programs, I go medium-heavy with slow tempo 3 sets of 12-15 reps.

WP: What is your diet?

BA: The "zigzag" method diet works the best for me. The "zigzag" system works better than any other weight-gain and/or weight loss system. My protein intake stays high and constant during the week, but the carbs zigzag from day to day. Depending on the day of the week and activity being done that day it will determine if the carbs are high or low. Off-season and pre contest stays about the same. I continue with the zigzag method in the pre contest also, its just the carbs are lowered more then the carbs off season.

WP: I bet a lot of people are searching the internet right now to find out more about the "zigzag" system. So, Bradley, who had the most impact on you in your life thus far?

BA: My son, Marcelo Rene Aubry, has had the most impact in my life so far. Because of him, I had redirected my life into a positive direction and converted in a natural bodybuilder.

WP: Wow! Outstanding! What were you like in high school?

BA: I was always into sports. So, I played football and basketball throughout my high school.

WP: What are your hobbies outside of fitness?

BA: I enjoy spending time with my family, praising God, watching football, and playing video games with my son.

WP: What type of music do you listen to?

BA: I am very diverse. I listen to everything and anything.

WP: I'll listen to anything but country! Ha! I've heard you talk about your family throughout the interview. Tell me more about your wife.

BA: My wife’s name is Christina Aubry and she is my best friend. She has been a big part of all my accomplishments.

WP: What supplements do you take and why?

BA: I take Glutamine to help in muscle recovery, amino acids to help in building lean muscle, and Creatine to help with muscle endurance.

WP: Where can you be seen on the internet beside your website and gym link we will provide as links on the top of your interview?

BA: I can also be seen on bodybuilding.com - username Naturalguru, and the official site of Musclemania.

WP: What are your future projects in your life?

BA: My future projects will be to build on my personal training business, spread the word on the benefits of being natural, and to get a supplement sponsorship.

WP: The interview is closing. Is there anything you would like to mention before we close?

BA: I want to first thank you for this opportunity to be interviewed. I just want everyone to know that it’s possible to accomplish your fitness goals without the use of performance enhancing drugs.

WP: Great final words! Stay clean and succeed! You're living proof! It's been a pleasure interviewing you, Bradley. It really has! May you be blessed with all great things!