Tell us about your weight loss or fitness journey?
My fitness journey started at a very young age. I always wanted to have Popeye arms! I started training at 13 and never thought about competing until after winning the trials in April 2020, I now had the confidence to step onstage. I picked a show and set some goals and went after it. I really wanted to bring the best package I could so I hired Tristan James and put all my faith in his hands! And did he ever deliver!!!
Where are you from? What is your background?
I was born and raised in South Fl. I was a very active boy from skateboarding to bike riding. When I entered middle school I started cross country running. But my freshman year in high school everything changed when I joined the wrestling team! Wrestling and bodybuilding are very similar. It’s one on one you against you! Your training and nutrition all have to be on point to perform at your best!!! So the transition was fairly simple.
Do you like to share your success with family, friends and followers?
I do like sharing my success with family, friends and followers! I’ve always had huge support from our amazing town of Clewiston. We are a small community where everybody knows your name! I’m constantly running into people wishing me luck! The best feeling was when team Clewiston showed up to my show to support me! I can’t thank them enough!!!
Do you read or watch videos on fitness?
Hahaha! I watch every fitness channel on YouTube. (Especially Redcon1) That’s all I watch. I try to stay inspired 24-7-365!!!
Is there any one thing that has had a major impact on your success?
There is one thing that has had a major impact on my life and that’s beating stage 4 cancer!!! Cancer can’t stop me and nothing will!!!
Any advice you’d like to give someone who is starting their own fitness journey?
The advice I could give someone starting out is to be patient. Learn your body and how it reacts to food and training. If you can afford to hire a coach I highly recommend it. Trust the process and enjoy the ride! It’s a lifestyle!!!
Any advice you’d like to give to someone who is trying to become a successful Tier Operator?
In order to be a successful tier operator you first need to be patient! Learn the products and be the brand! Always wear your gear and have samples on hand. Be willing to sacrifice your own supply to share with potential customers. I always start conversations with new customers by asking what’s your favorite pre? Have you ever tried total water? Give them a sample and a business card and tell them to reach out anytime if they have any questions.
What kind of workouts do you enjoy the most?
I really don’t have a workout I like the most as long as I’m giving a 110% every time then they’re all my favorite workouts! I like for the muscle to feel like its going to explode!!!
What is one of your difficulties or weaknesses?
I don’t believe I have any difficulties or weaknesses. We all can come up with an excuse to not do something. I do the opposite! There’s always enough time to accomplish your goals whether it’s getting up at 4 am to train or waking up in the middle of the night to get that last meal in. If you want it you’ll make time for it.
What was your feeling on stage when you won?
The feeling I had when I won was overwhelming!!! I not only got to hear my name called for first place one time but four times!!! “And your winner number 15 Michael Sparks!!!” It never gets old!
What are your inspirations, what motivates you?
What inspires and motivates me is the young men and woman of Clewiston. I love how they trust me and come to me for advice on training and nutrition. They’re sponges and they all want to learn and I love being a part of that!
What are your goals? How do you plan to reach them?
My number one goal right now is to make Elite athlete with Redcon1!!! It’s been a goal of mine since winning the trials. If I were able to get sponsored I would be able to focus more on contest prep and go after a pro card at 44 years young!
How has Redcon1 helped you?
Redcon1 has helped me tremendously! I have been a loyal customer since 2018. And now that I’m a Tier 2 operator my monthly free fulfillment helps me reach my goals without breaking the bank!