In the world of bodybuilding, where determination and discipline are the keys to success, John Rigoli, current Certificate III in Fitness student at Onfit Training College, is gearing up for an extraordinary challenge – the ISBB O’Mara Classic and Mr. Universe Australia competitions in October. We had the privilege of chatting with John to learn more about his motivations, balancing studies and training, and the significant role that fitness and bodybuilding play in his life.
A Dream Come True:
John’s journey to the Mr. Universe Australia and O’Mara Classic competitions began when the director of the event, Mike O’Mara, stumbled upon his Facebook profile and noticed his exceptional physique. Impressed by John’s dedication and potential, Mike offered him an opportunity to join the prestigious IFBB organization. John’s dreams were about to come true as he received an invitation to compete in the O’Mara Classic and Mr. Universe Australia.
“I said sure, I’d love that; it’s a bodybuilder’s dream come true,” John beams with excitement.
His primary motivation behind participating in these competitions is not only to chase his passion but also to advance his personal training career. John hopes that this experience will open doors for him in the fitness industry, lead to stunning photos from the competition, and perhaps even pave the way to earning a coveted PRO CARD and participating in events like the Arnold Classics.
Balancing Studies and Training:
With the rigorous demands of his training schedule, one might wonder how John manages to balance his studies at Onfit Training College. His secret lies in setting daily study goals of 45 to 60 minutes. This disciplined approach allows him to pursue both his educational and fitness goals effectively.
The Role of Fitness and Bodybuilding:
For John, fitness and bodybuilding are not just hobbies; they are a way of life. He emphasizes, “Fitness and bodybuilding play a huge part in my life; they are what helps me jump out of bed in the morning. It’s just something I’ve always really loved doing; there is nothing better than being fit, strong, healthy, and looking good to me.”
Education and Personal Growth:
John acknowledges that his educational experiences have contributed significantly to his growth as a bodybuilder and competitor. His studies have provided him with a deep understanding of how the body works, exercise techniques, and nutrition. This knowledge has empowered him and made him a more informed and skilled athlete.
Diet and Training Routine:
In preparation for the Mr. Universe Australia and O’Mara Classic competitions, John is fortunate to have “one of the best coaches in the world” overseeing his diet and training regimen. His program is tailor-made to suit his body type, with regular adjustments to ensure he stays on track. This level of guidance and precision is crucial in the world of competitive bodybuilding.
Mental Resilience:
Competing in events like the Mr. Universe Australia and O’Mara Classic requires not just physical strength but also mental resilience. John’s approach is straightforward: “I just try my very best to stick to the program that my coach made for me. It’s a labor of love for me; I just look at it like a treat. I don’t go to bed at night until everything I was supposed to do in the day is complete. I want it so bad, so I just have the mentality of doing whatever it takes and being a problem solver, finding a way because everything is possible.”
Life Lessons from Bodybuilding:
Bodybuilding has taught John important life skills, such as the value of hard work, discipline, and the power of applying the same principles to achieve any goal in life. It has also instilled in him a deep appreciation for the importance of a healthy body and balanced nutrition.
Advice for Aspiring Bodybuilders:
As a student in the fitness industry, John has valuable advice for those aspiring to compete in bodybuilding while managing their studies: “Time management is key; you have to prioritize what’s most important and cut out things that aren’t important in your life. Stay focused and get into a routine. I always listen to Arnold’s motivational speeches: ‘We have 24 hours in a day,’ organise your day so you can fit everything in, don’t waste a single hour.”
John Rigoli’s journey as a student and bodybuilder is a testament to the power of passion, discipline, and dedication. As he prepares to step onto the stage of the Mr. Universe Australia and O’Mara Classic competitions, he embodies the spirit of a true athlete, driven by dreams and the desire to be the best version of himself. We’ll be watching his journey closely and wishing him the best of luck in achieving his goals.
