When did you start powerlifting?

My first meet was the 100% Raw Powerlifting Federation’s World Bench Championships in Barco, NC, Nov. 2005.

How did you become interested in powerlifting?

I’ve been lifting since Jr. High, but never even thought about doing this competitively. Then I started getting SPAM emails from Shawn Lyte, who was promoting the meet (today, I’m proud to call Shawn a good friend – he’s the first person I ever thanked for Spamming me). I checked to see what others in my weight class and age category were putting up, and thought I could do OK. It was a fun time, and I’ve met many great people in this sport.

What is your usual weight class?

165

Do you prefer to lift equipped or non-equipped?

I have a pacemaker, so I doubt I could even get into one of those shirts without getting hurt.

Where do you normally train?

I have a personal training company, so I’m in gyms all day long – but I never train in any of them. When it’s time for MY workout, I go to Crunch or X-Sport, where nobody knows me.

What are some of your best lifts?

Bench 295.

What are your current goals?

First, to get over 300 in a competition lift. Long term – I’d like to get two times my bodyweight. That means either lifting 330, or staying at 300 and cutting weight to 148.

What is your proudest moment in powerlifting?

I’m a humble guy. I don’t get too proud.

Describe your training program:

It varies, but right now, I’m following the www.criticalbench.com program. Basically it’s five days a week: Day one- chest, day two – legs, day three – back, day four – shoulders, day five – arms, days six and seven are rest.

Do you lift alone, with training partners, or a team?

I wish I had a couple good lifting partners, but my schedule is too crazy, so I usually lift alone and pester people at the gym for spots.

Do you take any supplements? If so, which?

I drink protein shakes all day long. I also take omega oils for my arteries.

Any advice for beginners?

Stay away from drugs. It’s not that serious.

What is your favorite lift?

Bench.

What is your least favorite lift?

The squat. I can’t ever seem to go heavy without re-injuring my back.

How do you mentally prepare for a contest?

I don’t. I see a lot of guys getting psyched up and stomping around. That’s great if it works for them. I’m more laid back. The training is done; now the weight will go up or it won’t. I just try to keep from getting nervous.

What is your favorite “Cheat” food?

I couldn’t pick just one. I eat extremely clean during the week, then eat for fun on the weekends.