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Michael Ogawa |
Have you always been in shape I played soccer from age 5-37 at the highest levels, including collegiate and some semi pro. This is probably the reason for my decent legs, for which I am thankful! I started lifting semi seriously during college, and then it just progressed from there. I got my first Training Cert more out of a search for knowledge, but it eventually exposed my passion for health and fitness. Over the years, I have honed my training and nutrition, and done a lot of experimentation on myself, with the exception of illegal supplements. Absolutely forever natural! How did you get started in physique competitions? I decided to enter my first competition for a couple of reasons. The first was I thought it would be a great exercise in discipline: could I stay on a strict diet for 12 weeks. And second, it was a great way to rid my self of stage fright! What better way to accomplish that and stand on stage in front of hundreds of people in a speedo???
Describe your training philosophy: I believe strength is the pillar to the body, so I emphasize "strength" training: however I understand the importance of functional movement and spend a good deal of time on that as well as corrective exercise when needed.
What are your favorite exercises? I enjoy most back exercises. I love leg day, and would have to say my favorite leg exercise would have to be Bulgarian Split Squats with a heavy barbell. Single leg exercises are incredible for strength as well as a huge functional component.
What is your diet like in the off season? Off season diet is fairly strict; however, I do indulge when I feel like it. But I like the way healthy feels so I stay relatively good. Describe your diet during contest prep: During contest prep, I cut out my fun foods, and focus on carb cycling. Low carb diets are passe. Bouncing my carbs around keep my metabolism jacked up. As the final week approaches, I really buckle down and watch my sodium intake, eliminate shakes, dairy, and eggs, among other things. The days leading up to show day are kind of a crap shoot, depending on how my body is coming into condition.
What supplements have worked for you? I don't use many supplements. I use a high quality whey protein isolate after workouts and a custom made carb blend. I also have a whey protein and casein mix for other times during the day. I have used an amino acid mix to sip throughout the day. I do like a creatine/l-arginine, etc pre workout supplement. That's really about it.
What advice would you give to aspiring athletes? For aspiring athletes, I would say what I tell all my clients, "consistency is King". The trick to learn is to train hard without over training, which sounds vague, but everyone is different and adapts differently. Knowledge is very important, so read, read, read. The "gym guru" is not necessarily the best source of information. Some magazines provide decent information, but try to garner your knowledge from multiple sources and then see what works best for you. There really is no cut and dried method. All those "pro's" being interviewed saying this works and that works may be right, for them. The reality is, many things that work for someone using "extra" supplementation may not work for a natural athlete.
What have you learned about yourself as a physique competitor? I have learned that I do have the discipline and work ethic to be competitive ( have not placed off the podium yet, knock on wood!!), and I have to apply those same principles to the rest of my life. It's fascinating to watch the transformation my body undergoes during pre competition. Continuing to step on stage continues to help me with my stage fright. I have gained self confidence from stepping on stage. I enjoy being around other natural athletes at the shows. Most are pretty laid back and helpful.
What are your plans for the future? I hope to win my natural pro card (probably in the Master's Division) in the next year. It would be a nice feather in my cap. I will continue to grow my personal training business, and continue to learn about fitness and nutrition.
Email: michael.ogawa@mac.com Website: Motivatedmotionlv.com |
