World Physique

Interviewed by Tammy Renee'
Photos by: BBPics

WP: Hey Fabio! Congrats on winning our, "Personal Trainer of the Month" award! You actually could have won, "Transformation of the Month", too with what you have accomplished in your life. It’s great to have you here with me today!

FG: The pleasure is all mine. Thank you for having me here.

WP: We have a very long story about the outstanding changes you have made in your life. I want to take everything step-by-step so everyone will be able to be fully inspired, as I am. You have overcome so many obstacles in your life and I am so proud of you. I know that some things we are going to talk about will probably be something that you would rather just forget, but you and I are on the path of trying to help other people. I feel your story might reach out and help someone. If we can help just one person, we have made a difference in someone's life.

So, let's being this interview. I understand that you were not always into working out and taking care of your health. In fact, you were into drinking heavily and smoking, which actually caused you a lot of pain in your life. Can you tell me more about this time in your life?

FG: I want to inspire as many people as I can. That is why I agreed to this interview. Thank you for allowing me to help others. To answer the question, unfortunately, as a human being, I had lived some difficult experiences that have taken me to the place in which I stand right now. I would say that I have no regrets, but I would prefer not to have gone through what I did. It’s life and there is nothing that I can do about it; other than keep the memory and try to shared with others, in order for them to skip that part in their life.

As you said, I had experienced heavy consumption of alcohol and smoking, which combined, weren’t the best thing for my life or to my health. I believe that my age and my level of maturity, at that time, were responsible for getting involved so deep. I was between the ages of 13 and 19 when I thought that drinking and smoking were going to make me look more interesting and more mature in front of everybody, but instead of that, it took me deep into a hole where my life and my sports were taking the hit. I changed; from being one of the most recognizable players of soccer at my school, to being the one of the worst. I also allowed it to happen with my tennis. It was a tough experience, but thanks to God and to a good friend of mine, the world of fitness and exercise came into my life and took me out of that hole.

WP: You just mentioned you had a good friend that helped you turn your life around, right? Explain the next steps in your life once you knew you didn’t want to be the “Party Guy” any more.

FG: One day, when I was 19 years old and 105 pounds, one of my friends from College asked me if I wanted to go with him to the gym, to at least help him during his workout, and to check out the girls at the same time. I decided to take him up on his offer. I wasn’t expecting that my life was going to make a mayor change that day to the point that my ‘party life’ wasn’t going be important to me anymore.

That day, I did my first workout. To my surprise, I got so into working out that a new Fabio was born. The feeling of my body, the sweat, and the soreness with each workout gave me a new challenge to become better every day. It was easy to make the transition maybe because I was tired of the ‘party life’ that I was living, and I needed a change. It is funny how I changed drinking alcohol for protein shakes and water every day, changed the habit of smoking for my passion of cooking and eating healthy. It took me two years after hitting my first workout to decide to go out again, but at this time, I was under different terms and a different group of friends.

WP: Once you straightened your life up, started working out, and eating right, you gained 60 pounds of solid muscle. What was your workout regime at that time?

FG: In the beginning, my goal was to gain some weight because I was 105 pounds and one of those skinny dudes. Trust me; I didn’t look good at all. I hired a trainer who was my mentor, and he started me lifting weights on the machines to develop strength. Then, I made the jump to the free weights. I was working out one body part per day and was eating 6 to 7 times a day, which was a huge difference, compared to my old life style which was base on alcohol, cigarettes and fast food. My new nutrition plan was based on large amounts of protein; combined with carbohydrates and liquids, supplements and multivitamins.

I had considered myself a good eater, so the eating part wasn’t the problem. The big problem was to get into a schedule and organize my daily routine to work to my benefit. So, I started cooking my meals, bringing them with me to college and eating pretty much on time. Little by little, I developed a new habit in my life, which I believe had represented 80% of my success in the world of fitness. That habit was the matter of being organized. Therefore; exercising, eating healthy and good habits are attached to a schedule that’s the key to my success. So, remember the word ‘organization’ and implement it into your life and soon you would get a better life.

WP: You made a trip to New York. What happened to you while you were there? What type of impact did it have on your life?

FG: Oh, wow! I notice that you have been well informed in every detail of my life. Your source of information must be good. Ha-ha!

WP: Ha-ha! We are good like that! Little birdies are everywhere!

FG: Ha-ha! Okay, well, I was 22 years old when I went to visit my family and friends in New York when I discover my passion for acting and music. Ever since I visited New York, Arts have been a big part of my life. I remember, at that time of my life, I was on my third year of Systems Engineer at College and I wasn’t really happy with my goals at that moment. The passion for the Art of acting and music took me to another stage in life, where new goals and dreams became a float and added more positive things to my life. At that time, I was trying to identify what I wanted to be in life and thanks to my organized life, I was able to reset my path and add more to my life without losing my focus.

WP: You shortly left New York and started your life in Bogota, Colombia, which turned into a consistent search and hustle going to different castings and auditions every day, so you decided to finish you career as an Engineer during night and worked during the day time to make your dream happen. How did that impact you?

FG: After my trip to New York, I came back to Colombia and moved from Cali to Bogota in order for me to pursuit my new dream of acting and music, but remained responsible and kept the secure part of my career as an Engineer. My days in Bogota weren’t easy because I didn’t know anybody and the times were rough. I was looking for a job; which became another challenge, because I didn’t have a clue of what I wanted to do.

One day while working out at the gym, a member asked me about a specific exercise and I gave him my advice. He told me that I should be a personal trainer because it seemed to him that I had passion for what I do in the gym; that got me thinking. I decided to get certified. I finally got a job as a Trainer. Ever since that moment, I had loved my job and my cause to help others.

WP: What are your certifications and what goals do you have in the future as a Personal Trainer?

FG: I’m certified by the ISSA (International Sports Science Association) and IFPA (International Fitness Professional Association). My most current plan for the future is to be part of a fitness competition and hopefully, win it. On the other hand, I’ve been thinking about obtaining more education on athletes and specific sports.

Something that I would like to add is that, life is a continuous movement and this movement in my life represents the matter of getting more educated and always getting better, through the knowledge and experience.

WP: What was it that made you know without a doubt that you wanted to go into Personal Training?

FG: I probably would be able to name many reasons that got me into the Personal Training career, but it was just one reason that really got me deep into my mind and my emotions. That was just the opportunity to help others. Having this chance, everyday to help different individuals, is a blessing! More than that, just to have the capacity of being able to affect lives in many different ways is the best feeling ever; it isn’t just the matter of helping a client to reach their goals, physically and mentally, it is the pleasure of seeing how their bodies at the same time are changing, their soul and lives are, too. They become more conscious of health, more aware of their eating habits, more confident and healthier.

WP: That was deep! Your words are powerful! You went on to become a fire fighter as well as a personal trainer. Can you tell me about that?

FG: The desire of become a fire fighter was something that I had in the back of my mind for many years. Thanks to God and the help of many people last year. I’m including my friends and family, my co-workers and, of course, and my clients for being flexible with their time and for the support. I was able to accomplish my dream. Being a fire fighter is some ways related to my fitness life because in the same way, that is a challenge every day, trying to save lives and trying to keep in the best shape. It is also related because I’m offering a service and helping others during crucial moments of their lives. I believe that being helpful to people is my philosophy in life.

WP: What type of job do you hold currently?

FG: Right now, I run my business MDR Fitness (Motivation-Determination & Results); which is located in Boynton Beach, Florida. We have a nice semi-private facility that is equipment with the best-of-the-best in the market. Our facility is 5000 square feet which includes free weights, machines, aerobic area, cardiovascular area, kid’s room, racquetball court, sauna, pool and a Jacuzzi.

This year, I’m looking forward to the opportunity of working in the fire department and have the privilege of offer my service to the community.

WP: You should really be proud of yourself. I am so touched on how you are so giving of yourself and always giving a hand to help others. It actually sounds like you are using the "Pay Forward" method. What do you eat in a normal day?

FG: My diet isn’t really complicated. I believe it shouldn’t be difficult to have a bit of self-control and learn how to manage the type of food that you put in to your system, for a better result. A regular day for me is pretty much base on a good breakfast full of protein, carbohydrates and sugars (5 to 6 egg whites, a piece of toast and a small portion of oatmeal with a scoop of protein) to get started, then 2 or 3 hours later, I would have a snack, which could be a protein shake or a protein bar, until time to have lunch.

Lunch, I usually have my portion of protein plus a source of carbohydrate. For protein, I always pick chicken, turkey or fish all grilled and nothing fried. I also add a small portion of wheat rice and vegetables, and sometimes a small portion of Jello. A small piece of sugar will maintain my energy. It would be followed by another snack which can be a fruit or a rice cake with peanut butter. Finally, my dinner that is the cleanness meal of my day. I intake any source of protein which can be chicken, fish or steak and salad or vegetables, because I like to keep my system light before I go to bed. Sometimes, depending on how hard was my day or how tired I am, I add a protein shake before going to bed. It isn’t a bad idea. I even add some almonds sometimes, just to keep the metabolism working.

WP: Do you allow yourself a cheat day?

FG: I really don’t believe in that theory of having a cheat day. I believe more on knowing at what time of the day your body would take certain type of meals or food, in a good way. So, I won’t have to cheat myself or my system, but I do have respect for other people that implement this in their lives. It apparently works for them.

WP: Your way sounds more logical! So, what are your views on supplements? Which do you take?

FG: I used to take a lot supplements at the beginning of my fitness life, but I’ve taken a break for the past 3 years to let my body rest and to clean my system the natural way. I do take and recommend some basic supplements because I understand that not everybody has the opportunity to cook and be home every day for a meal. In that case, I always suggest protein powder, protein bars, amino acids, and multi-vitamins. I also understand that every individual has a completely different body type and system and the supplements should come with the individual goals and body type.

WP: Where do you want to be in 5 years?

FG: In 5 years, I’m looking forward to be at the top of my career as a Fitness Trainer. At the same time being very well known in the world of fitness as a fitness model. Another of my goals is to open a few more fitness center and expand my knowledge and way of training to the reach of others. Consequently, I’m looking forward to having a job in the fire department, and being as successful as I am in my fitness career.

WP: Your physique has really impressed me. How do you keep the physique you have? What is the hardest thing for you to face when it comes to keeping your physique?

FG: I consider myself one of those people who are always on-season; the reality is that my life style and my passion for fitness don’t allow me to have an off-season time. So for this reason, the matter of maintaining my physique is just the result of continuous work.

Being on-season all year long represents performing a workout at least 6 times a week, including all my body parts and for my endurance. I also try to play sports. When the time doesn’t allow me to do that I do some work with the cardio equipment, like the Elliptical or the Stair Master. In addition, sometimes I rather run outdoors than indoors. I would say the hardest thing about maintaining my physique is that I’m not too friendly with the cardio equipment. I’m always trying to avoid doing any cardio at the gym and I’m always making an excuse to go outdoors and play any sports. The reality is that sometimes is a lot safer to do the cardio at the gym using the equipment than playing a sport, because outdoors with any type of sport, the risk of getting an injury is always higher.

WP: I understand you worked with our Senior Photographer, John Mitchell of bbpics.com. What was it like working with him?

FG: The experience of working with John Mitchell had made me grow as a model and as a person, because he is the type of photographer who will allow you to be creative and to be you. The most important part is he would take in consideration each and every one of my ideas to the point that I would get to do what I wanted and at the same time, he would be pleased, as the mind behind the camera. John had show me the new aspect of fresh photography and different scenarios because he would take me to a different place where sometimes I would say, “Oh no, it’s nothing to get out of here.” But trust me on this one, John would show me a new version of being creative and fresh. He will give you the best shoot in the most unexpected places. Doing photography with John is to take you, as a model, to the next step. John is just one of the best in the industry and I’m looking forward to get to work with him soon again.

WP: How did he go over and beyond for you?

FG: John is the type of photographer that is always looking after the model for who that model is and not just for how he looks. Something that impresses me the most about John is that at the same time that he is doing the shoot, he is giving you advice and tips to get better and better every time. He is very responsible at his job and full of quality that is always on top of the game, even if we aren’t shooting or planning to shoot. He is always in contact and encouraging his models to maintain the same level or better. That’s something that had made a difference with me and I hear that with other models that has shot with him, as well.

I’ve already recommend John to my friends and people in the industry because I was pleased with my experience with him. To all of you guys and girls out there, if you are looking for a great photographer, I will suggest you book John and be ready to meet one of the greatest in the art of photography. He’s also a cool guy.

WP: Do you have any advice to the newbie’s that wish to become a model and actor?

FG: My advice to all of the guy and girls out there that are looking to pursuit a dream of acting and modeling is to be very careful! Especially, be sure that is what you want to do because isn’t a easy career and it requires a lot sacrifice. Also, always follow the dreams that keep pounding on your heart and never give up. Anything and everything is possible.

WP: Are you married, dating, or do you have kids?

FG: At the moment I’m free as a bird, and to be honest, I like having my space and having the time to dedicate to my career. Of course, if someone shows into my life, I’ll be more than happy to welcome that person. Why not give an opportunity to love into our lives? As I always say, love is what it makes the world move.

WP: Who had the most impact on you growing up?

FG: I believe that my father had the most impact in my life. My father is someone who had taught me to be strong and be perseverant, and always to look up with my head straight, even in the most difficult moments in life. I feel proud to say that my father is my role model and my hero.

WP: What is your work-out?

FG: I usually perform a workout at least 6 times a week, including all my body parts. I don’t really have a design program to follow. How it works for me is like as if I walk in the gym and figure out which body parts I need to work on. I basically do super-sets and repetitions with some type of cardio in between.

For example let say that I’m working on my chest and triceps. I would do one exercise for the chest and immediately I’d do one exercise for my triceps. Then I would jump rope per 2 minutes. I would follow the same style until the end of my routine that day. Some days, I alternated the jump rope for jumping jacks, frogs, and more cardio exercises of high impact. I also play sports and try to play at least 2 to 3 times a week like racquetball, tennis or some soccer.

I don’t usually lift heavy, but sometimes, depending if I’m preparing for a shoot or any special event, I do lift heavy one week and two weeks of definition and repetition, and then again heavy, to develop more muscle and strength. I will then use lighter weight for more definition with more repetitions.

WP: What is your greatest achievement in your life thus far?

FG: The greatest achievement in my life was when I left the life of a ‘party guy’ to become a gym freak.

WP: It has been such a stepping stone for you. If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?

FG: This is the question I’m asked the most and my answer is that I wouldn’t change nothing about me and nothing about my life, because God made me this way for a purpose and for a reason. I’m extremely happy with what he had given me so far.

WP: You have been a pleasure to interview! Thank you for your time and good luck in your future bodybuilding endeavors! We will see you on the stands in our next magazine issue, which is the Spring 2010 issue! Everyone go to the store and pick up a copy and ask Fabio for his autograph! Just for what he stands for, I will get him to autograph one for me.

FG: Thank you for the opportunity of chatting with you and I hope that I was entertained enough during this time, good luck and I’ll be looking forward for another interview with you guys. I will be looking forward to the Spring 2010 issue of World Physique Magazine.