Physical strength can be amassed and shed over time, but strength of the mind and spirit are eternal.
Mountain of muscle, Jonathan Leahy, showed off his cut abs and bulging arms at the recent International Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation Pro Diva Show. The ripped machine brought home the gold in the Men’s Novice Physique and took bronze in the Men’s Physique under 177 category. “This was a show aimed at the development of the youth as well as the women in the sport,” explained Jonathan.
The outstanding results highlight Jonathan’s impressive progression in the bodybuilding world despite a turbulent 2020. Maintaining such an impeccable physique requires hours in the gym and with fitness centres closed for much of the year, there were no shortage of challenges. “For the first four months of lockdown everything I did was body weight. Covid hampered a lot of people’s progress for shows this year, but somehow we made it happen and were able to get on stage,” said Jonathan.
Looking after Jonathan’s training regimen is Nick Robert from East Coast Transformations. Nick can now boast over 150 gold medals earned by bodybuilding athletes that he has helped sculpt. “When I connected with Jono, I saw an individual with so much potential for growth. He is the epitome of a humble gentlemen in this industry that not only inspires me as a coach but everyone he meets in life,” praised Nick.
Ever the perfectionist, Jonathan feels he still has room for improvement. “A short-term goal would be to focus on my frame, see where I can develop myself a bit more, and grow an all-round balanced physique,” he claimed.
True to form, he has his sights firmly set on where he wants to be, envisioning, “The end goal is to have me step on the biggest stage called Mr. Olympia in the USA. It would be a dream come true to stand there and represent South Africa.”
