Cover Model Photos

So, as expected Mens Health sent me the annual "you have no chance mate" letter, and as I previously mentioned, my photos are going to be available here.

Now, I found a photo from last year that I submitted to Mens Health, and I'm shocked to see I even bothered then. But before all judgement takes place, it is worth noting that Mens Health magazine not only wanted photos but also a description of why you exercise, what you do etc. all in 250 words, which as anyone who entered will know, is very difficult to describe in such a small paragraph. My angle is simply that I don't want to sacrifice my social life, as I do enjoy a drink etc as we all do, but the only way of keeping the gut off is by burning off the excess calories.

Here is the exact wording I submitted (dead on 250 words!):

I would love to be a role model for those people who do not believe that a fit, healthy, athletic physique is achieveable for the average man.

At 25, a lifestyle change was required and starting Judo aquainted me with a level of fitness I had never before imagined, 6 years later this enthusiasm for sport continues in the form of cycling.

Although the usual cover model look creates the visual impression of overall health, the cycling I enjoy limits the larger mass of the expected cover model – typically 90 - 120 minutes worth of intense cycling, twice a week is how I maintain my cardiovascular & aerobic fitness.

I also incorporate a 60 minute, home-based weights routine twice a week to ensure that my whole body gets a good workout. During days where I can’t cycle, I still aim to work the legs with a weights regime.

I believe that I have achieved a good balance between having the aerobic fitness, stamina and strength I want all year round, whilst enjoying an active social life. In the process I have acquired a body I am proud of, which is realistically achieveable for the majority of guys out there wanting to shape up.

Exercising has given me the knowledge, self confidence and self belief which has allowed me to contibute to the forums to hopefully benefit others. Overall, it has given me the desire to look after my body well into the future, minimising the risk of modern-day health problems.

So here is how I looked last year vs this year:



Now seeing these two shots side by side, I know there was and still is room for improvement!

I was hoping to get a decent early summer tan too, but you know that wasn't happening naturally so a minimal tweak using google's picassa gave it some warmth! I think I recall being slightly sunburnt last year though!

I know I didn't have the massively ripped torsos of the guys who have gone on to the final, and to be honest, I don't think a photo shoot for me a couple of weeks ago would have done any justice as I ahve had shed loads of beer sessions and eating out! Needless to say, the weather has been diabolical so I haven't had the chance to get out and ride either! But I'm back into the training now, and although I said to myself that next year I wouldn't bother, if I continue to make improvements like this, I may just try again!

I must say a big thanks to the missus for putting up with me & helping on the photos too!

For my next post, I'm going to give you an exact, but typical breakdown of this weeks food and exercise, and although not consumed yet, it will involve alcohol!