I'm 24 and compete as a D1 athlete while also training for strength. The bar's numbers have always defined who I am. For years, the mission was straightforward: become as strong as possible, no matter the cost. More recently, though, my outlook has changed. I now see that performing at an elite level isn't only about a single-rep max — it also comes down to longevity, metabolic health, and how I feel away from the platform.
When I began, I was 268 lbs, aiming to move away from "max strength" toward being as healthy and efficient as I can be. My injections happen every Monday, and this Wednesday I stepped on the scale at 258 lbs.
Shedding 10 lbs while keeping the base I've built is a big win, but the mental change matters more. I'm swapping the "bulk" for a leaner, more sustainable way of being an athlete. I'm sharing this because I know other heavy hitters are waking up to the fact that hauling extra weight around just to chase a total isn't worth what it does to the body. Come along as I reshape what being at my peak actually means.
I'm simply done with always being just a Big Guy.
When I began, I was 268 lbs, aiming to move away from "max strength" toward being as healthy and efficient as I can be. My injections happen every Monday, and this Wednesday I stepped on the scale at 258 lbs.
Shedding 10 lbs while keeping the base I've built is a big win, but the mental change matters more. I'm swapping the "bulk" for a leaner, more sustainable way of being an athlete. I'm sharing this because I know other heavy hitters are waking up to the fact that hauling extra weight around just to chase a total isn't worth what it does to the body. Come along as I reshape what being at my peak actually means.
I'm simply done with always being just a Big Guy.
