Humble bodybuilder set for ultimate test
Justin's goal is not necessarily to place, or even qualify for the upcoming Arnold Classic in Johannesburg (too costly), but to get sponsored, and to get photographed next to some of the best, who have been in the game for many years.
Bodybuilder Justin van Zyl (24) of Port Shepstone will be taking part in the inaugural IFBB King Shaka Classic bodybuilding and fitness event in Durban this Saturday.
It’s the first event of the year for Justin, who says he will ‘try his best’ in the classic bodybuilding category.
“I have run my own business for three years, but nothing has been as stressful mentally, physically and emotionally as being one week away from competing. You remove carbs from your diet (de-carb) which results in energy levels being extremely low. This week is the most brutal test. I eat, train and sleep,” he said.
Justin’s goal is not necessarily to place, or even qualify for the upcoming Arnold Classic in Johannesburg (too costly), but to get sponsored, and to get photographed next to some of the best, who have been in the game for many years.
“I first competed three years ago and have continued to do so, to see how far I push myself and see where I could end up,” he said.
“Just stepping onto stage is reward for all the hard work, but I enjoy the hours in the gym; it’s an addictive sport.”
He laughs when he recalls that he once was a ‘skinny oke’ who was bullied at school. How the tables have turned, as Justin is now a mass of bulging muscles and veins.
He’s also a nice guy, who believes the sport keeps you humble.
“There is always someone bigger and better than you; you can’t get a big head,” he added.
He would also like to inspire others to take up the sport and encourages them to compete.
Justin, who trains at Superbodies in Port Shepstone, says there is hardly anyone competing from the coast and that there are many people who are talented but don’t take the sport further.
“A lot of guys have potential but don’t have the knowledge or the confidence and I would like to help guide them,” he said.
He admits the sport is costly but adds, ‘where there is a will there is a way’.
“This sport is a journey and you enjoy it along the way. It’s not as easy as it looks, as I am not a sponsored athlete and have a business to run,” he said.
For the last few weeks, Justin has been eating chicken and rice every two and half hours.
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“It might sound like a lot of food but it’s not, it’s a bland diet and the rice portions are small. You never feel full and you can’t give in to any temptations. It’s like fasting, you learn to appreciate food and the people around you. It’s mentally tough but worth it.”
Justin is wanting to form a group and have a meeting with like-minded people who are interested in the sport of strongman, powerlifting, mainstream and/or classic bodybuilding, who can get together and start representing the South Coast.
Contact him at 081 4175496.
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