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Tuesday, 20th June 2017
WBFF Pro and model Neil Anderson reveals his top secrets in this exclusive Q&A with LA Muscle. Find out how he manages to keep in shape all year round...
What age did you start bodybuilding?
I started bodybuilding around 15. As a
competitive athlete (pole-vault), I was training on the track, gymnastics and
bodybuilding inspired training. I focused on condition, as I saw the best on
the track appeared to have the best and most conditioned shapes. Equally
inspired by the 90's movies that celebrated amazing physiques. Mike
Mentzer methods were cut in with my performance training to develop in my
teens.
What made you get into lifting weights?
Growing up in a quiet area of Belfast most of my friends were a good bit
older. They could be tough on me so I was encouraged to develop to fight back.
Equally at the time Belfast
was an intimidating place, I always felt a strong physical presence would
command respect. As I matured the desire stuck and throwing back to the likes
of Arnie, I felt the male form should be represented by a strong athletic
physique.
How many titles have you won?
In NABBA Mr NI I won two titles moving up the
ranks with the 1st Timers in 2011, Novice 2012. Had a runner up place in the Mr
Britain 2011. 2014 had a pro card win WBFF in the london O2 arena, Top 5 in Europe 2014 and
2015 WBFF pro muscle category. Top 10 Worlds Las Vegas 2015. Placed 2nd in the 2016 LA pro/am.
This year a time out for my ACL recovery after tearing it 2014 season.
What has been your greatest achievement in the
sport?
I feel my 2nd place in the LA Pro is up there
for me. It showed me that I'm at the top level and could push for a good place
in the worlds. Don't get me wrong top 10 in the world made me proud in the
massive line up that competes in Vegas, but there is much more in me. This year
isn't my year to get back up there but next year the focus is on!
What's your favourite body part to train?
My strongest lifting is back and it's my
favourite to hit.
What's your most dreaded body part to train?
Legs had been, due to having to hold back a
little at times. There was a bit of frustration and discomfort that I am gladly
passed now. Still legs is always great when it's over and not so fun at the
time!
How much do weigh off season mode?
I hit 17st 12 this offseason. That's my
biggest to date and a good lot more than previous competitive seasons that I
normally sit around 17st 4.
How much do you weigh on-season?
15st 4 is about where I hit on stage last
year.
How many carbs and protein do you have off
season?
I tend to favour additional kcals from
fats, I keep plenty carbs but net carbs are fairly low when I consider my fibre
intake. Protein can go up to 350, carbs about the same but tend to vary from
300-450 or so.
How many times a week do you train?
Off-season I only lift 4 or 5 days. I might get
a surf in on the weekend or a couple days when it's on. Most are surprised by
that but can still move well. I tend to really hammer the off-season hard, heavy
lifting but decent rest too.
How many carbs and protein do you have on
season?
I am a fan of a low carb approach for myself.
I just find bigger feeds of protein and fat working the glycolytic pathways
works. It allows me to feel full yet mentally sharp and less cravings. So I can
go as low as 40 net carbs for long periods. Fibre I keep high too say another
40g. So approx 80g to track per day running in to shows.
What's the toughest thing about comp prepping?
The last few weeks, juggling clients preps
with my own can be a challenge. Mostly the drop in energy at that stage that
makes it difficult. That being said as I have always been pretty easy going
about prep, it's just what I do. I still socialise however am happy to drink
water and get home a little earlier.
Who is your favourite bodybuilder?
Arnie was and always will be the man. levrone
had a shape that always struck me as one of the most balanced with size and
aesthetics. Consequently for shape he has always been my favourite.
What supplements do you use on a lead up to a
show?
Six Pack Extreme, Possessed - to keep me
focused and give solid pumps when I'm low, otherwise Vasculator when I don't
feel like I need the added boost of caffein. Vitamin B12 helps my energy and
mood. Limitless to help maintain mental sharpness. I ease back on protein
however have gold whey on days schedule doesn't allow for post training
meal.
How much water do you drink on a normal day?
4 litres normally.
How much water do you drink on a last week of
a show?
Vegas can be interesting as you sweat
profusely and never fee like you are water loading! I had way over 10 litres a
day and still struggle to get it 100% there. LA was a little easier. When I
compete in the UK
I would load up to about 8 litres.
What's the first thing you eat after a show?
Depends, I often go pasta or pizza. If a good
steak house is about I would have a steak but have the hand cut chips, creamed
spinach. Obviously as one of three courses by that stage!
What's your favourite food?
Steak, either a big t bone or chateaux
briande. Bison is amazing used to love that when I lived in Canada.
What do you like doing outside of
bodybuilding?
I love motorbikes and I surf, skate and
snowboard when I can. Seems a strange combination but I like to marry an
athleticism with the physique.
What's your favourite film?
Point break, True Romance and pumping
iron. Too different to decide.
What's your favourite book?
On the road -Jac Kerouac
Who has inspired you to become a bodybuilder?
Arnie, having watched him in movies awe struck
as a kid. Directly I had a lot of inspirational characters offer support and
care later when the seed was planted and already taking root. Guys in Northern Ireland
like Patrick Sweeney, Dave fox, Derek Lynch, Chris Murray and Dave Warner. All
passionate about the sport and gave me time and support. More recently Paul
Dillet bodybuilding legend and inspiring individual.
What advice would you give anyone who wants to
take up bodybuilding?
Take your time to develop and learn. Knowledge is key in this sport!