Phil Heath exclusive interview

interviewOne of the most decorated bodybuilders to walk the planet, Phil Heath, is on his way back to the UAE for 2019 Dubai Muscle Show. We went head-to-head to chat fashion, life lessons and more.

Everybody knows when Phil Heath enters the room. The seven-times Mr. Olympia appears to be carved out of granite - a hulking statute come to life. Even under baggy clothes you can tell that even his muscles have muscles. Yes, Heath has that comic-book super-hero body that gym bros can only dream of.

Ahead of the 2019 Dubai Muscle Show that takes place between December 5-7, we got the chance to lock horns with arguably the greatest bodybuilder of all time.

Supplied Phil Heath picking up his seventh Mr Olympia award.

What is it about Dubai that keeps drawing you back?

The culture, but most importantly, the fans of bodybuilding in Dubai. They’ve always been very passionate about what we do every time I’ve visited.

What life lessons has bodybuilding taught you?

The most important one is to remain a student of my own physical, mental and emotional attributes. Implementing a constant willingness to learn new things has also yielded some great successes.

What mistakes have you made along the way?

Trusting the wrong individuals. I allowed myself to bring in too many people who I thought were pure of heart, but were not. I essentially needed to realise that not everyone keeps your best interests to heart as others. Lots of people are only in it for themselves while using your likeness for their own personal benefit.

What’s the key motivator that helps keep you ahead of the game?

My faith and ability to recognise what my strengths, but more importantly, my weaknesses too. It’s the things I’m not great at that I spend more time on to stay on my own path to exponential growth.

In the lead up to a competition, what does your typical day of food look like?

I’d normally consist of 6-8 meals per day ranging from 4800-6500 calories consistently with some cheat days where calories go up another 2000-2500. The types of foods I eat are primarily lean cuts of beef, chicken breast, fish, some eggs. The rest are carbs ranging from white rice, sweet potatoes, baked potatoes, oats and more. I do add various types of veggies, but mostly just spinach, asparagus and Brussels sprouts.

In terms of fashion, how difficult is it to get a sharp suit that fits your physique?

It’s very difficult to pull items from the rack like most people do. It is possible, but there are only a few brands that work. So I need a tailor specialised in knowing my physique. I tend to use only one - Andre Holliday - who was seen in the film, Generation Iron.

Finally, what three sure-fire tips would you give to our readers that want to get ripped?

Do cardio for at least 35-40mins 4-6 days a week for at least eight weeks. Eat clean proteins, low to moderate carbs and low fats. Total caloric intake should have this ratio of 50 percent protein, 30 percent fats and 20 percent carbs. And, use my fat-burners, InfernoCore by Phil Heath Labs.

2019 Dubai Muscle Show takes place December 5-7 at Dubai World Trade Centre. Tickets available from dubaimuscleshow.com.

END OF INTERVIEW

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