Born Mark Charles Ferrara the day after Independence Day 21 years ago, I was raised speaking both Spanish and English. Growing up I was overweight. During my transition from junior high to high school, I grew tired of the way I looked and decided it was time to change.
I went from a computer geek to an exercise and fitness enthusiast in a matter of months. Unfortunately, I soon took my new passion to an unhealthy level by sticking with a sickly diet of less than 500 calories per day and over 3 hours of cardio per day.
I ended getting sick and being hospitalized. I was just 13-years old and had gone from a heavy 220 pounds to a healthy yet husky 160 pounds, to an emaciated 110 pounds at 5-foot-9 in less than a year. I was at my lowest.
The "skinny" media brainwashed me and I didn't know where to look at this point. This wasn't what I wanted, I just wanted to feel and look good. I always wanted to have that "larger than life" physique, but had no guidance.
At this point I was at rock bottom. I began buying muscle magazines and becoming a frequent visitor of Bodybuilding.com.
I was on a mission to get the body of my dreams but most importantly to be healthy, feel comfortable in my own skin, and feel free within. I have always been an extremist, but with guidance and a well-thought-out plan, I knew this time I was on a beautiful journey to success and happiness.
At this point with my driven mindset I would inevitably sacrifice everything to reach my goals. Now, 9 years later and hundreds of workouts, protein shakes, cups of oats, and nights spent thinking about the next morning's cardio, two brutal weight sessions, and plethora of high protein meals, I am living my dream.
Click Image To Enlarge. I Was On A Beautiful Journey To Success And Happiness.
How I Did It
I began training at local gym down the street from my high school. I would wake up at 4 a.m. on the dot, have my first meal, and pack along my gym bag with my meals for the day. I had an hour walk to the gym. I would get there buy 5:30 a.m., train with weights until 6:30 a.m., shower, and walk to school by 7:15 a.m.
This was most convenient since I always worked after school. It took a lot of commitment and drive, especially in New England's brutal winters. It reminded me of the Rocky IV movie! I stuck with this routine all through high school.
My job helped pay for my supplements and groceries, since eating quality food can be costly at times. Everyday I looked and felt better than the day before. Bodybuilding is the most beautiful thing I found at this point and will be with me the rest of my life.
But with my mindset, as most in this sport know, you are never truly satisfied. I always tell myself "there are no limits when the sky is the first step!" 9 years later at 210 pounds with ripped abs I feel amazing and love sharing my passion with others who have gone through a similar experience and are simply in need of some guidance.
At this point I am pursuing a modeling career and my dream of a supplement company endorsement and am confident in my endeavors. I look forward to the amazing life ahead and what it will bring.
Click Image To Enlarge. I Look Forward To The Amazing Life Ahead And What It Will Bring.
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