A Balanced Diet: The Key for Success

While looking on the Internet a few days ago I was amazed at the number of diets out there that were absolutely out of balance nutritionally. The people and or companies that come up with these so called “magic bullets” really concern me. I have been serious about fitness and nutrition for over 25 years and there is no substitute for the combination of sound knowledge and diligence.

There is a saying in my favorite book, the Bible, which says “In all your getting, get wisdom for it is the principal thing”. I believe anything worth doing is worth doing well. Building the body is a process that takes time and dedication, if it was easy we would all be in great shape. Do not be deceived by some of claims of these so-called miracle diets. Since about 75% of your body’s improvements are due to nutrition, a balanced diet is a must. The body needs a proper combination of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats to function optimally. In my opinion, any diet that sounds too good to be true, probably is. I have tried just about everything out there, as far as supplements go, to get the most out of my body and I always ended up returning to the basics, plenty of quality food and water, a good multi-vitamin and a protein supplement.

I am the type of person that is very result oriented. I studied everything on nutrition I possibly could. When I made the decision to compete, I knew my diet had to be flawless because I decided to compete drug free, so I couldn't afford any errors in my diet plan. I decided long before competing to eat exactly the same food for a week, and then I would analyze the progress in my physique. The following week the diet would have a different protein, carbohydrate, and fat. Week after week I changed, combined and omitted a multitude of foods and I faithfully compiled the necessary data. Be assured the meals were always nutritionally sound. By taking the time to do this, I found the foods that worked best for my body. The gains came faster once I mastered this formula. Clark always said that my body changed so fast when I would get in contest shape, and that is the reason.

I just didn't want to be the guy with the crutches who competed in some bodybuilding shows. I wanted to touch each and every person in that audience in a positive way. If just one person went away that day saying “If he can finish in the top five without using drugs and with a disability, against able bodied competitors, I can get myself to the gym and eat healthier”, I will have succeeded. Because of health issues beyond my control, I am now unable to go to the gym and train, but it is still my hope and Clark's that we continue to equip, inspire, and encourage all of you to be the absolute best you can be body, mind, and spirit.