In March of 2003, I decided I would begin training for and enter my first bodybuilding competition…the 2003 Northern Alberta Bodybuilding Championships. Being a Personal Trainer, and having spent the previous 4 years designing training and programs and meal plans, my thought process was such that I "knew what I was doing" and wasn't going to enlist the aid of anyone from the outside…my wife and I would simply gauge my progress and I would adjust my food intake and training accordingly. BIG MISTAKE. Looking back, in vain attempts to better my condition, I made a lot of irrational decisions when it came to my diet and exercise program. And let's be honest, a spouse will always tell you that you "look great." Come the day of the show, I was satisfied that I had strictly committed to myself for the past few months and was proud that I had dropped 43lbs, and attained a condition better than 95% of the average population. However, when it came down to bodybuilding standards, I was soft, smooth and flat. My condition earned me fifth place in a class of five Lightweights. Ouch.

I was first approached by my Nutritionist, (who expressed an interest to work with me for the 2004 season) at that very show. From what I knew of him, he had been around the game for a number of years and his athletes always came in to the shows in excellent condition. I decided to take him up on his offer and committed to working with him for the 2004 Northerns. The BEST $$$$ I have ever spent. He took complete control of my nutrition, cardio, water, tanning, posing and last minute contest prep details. All I had to do was design my weight training program. Other than that, I didn't have to think or worry about anything. I very quickly realized in this sport, it is crucial to have that non-biased outside eye; looking in and making necessary adjustments. EVERYONE needs a nutritionist. Wayne Gretzsky, Michael Jordan, Ken Griffey, Tiger Woods, Evander Holyfield…they all have teams of professionals behind them working on their training and nutrition. Top level bodybuilders have trainers and nutritionists. I am fortunate to have Cabel McElderry.

After an initial meeting outlining my goals and current training and nutrition regimen, Cabel started me on my journey to the 2004 Northern Alberta Bodybuilding Championships. In 18 weeks, I unloaded 42lbs. One pound less than my contest prep for the previous year…but I looked like a totally different person. I came in shredded, tight and dry, far beyond what I anticipated. This time around, my condition earned me first place out of three Bantamweights as well as the Overall title, the first northern overall title won by a Bantamweight in Albertas history. We kept going, and I continued on to take home the Provincial Bantamweight title in a class that brought 7 competitors to the stage. We are currently preparing for the 2004 Canadian Bodybuilding Championships.

Bodybuilding is often known to be a sport where athletes come in to their competitions feeling tired, drained, hungry and generally fed up and irritable. I can't say that I experienced any of these things working with Cabel. My energy levels were constant, my strength hardly wavered, and I didn't experience cravings, hunger or any feeling of being deprived.

Overall, my experience with Cabel has far exceeded my expectations. Cabel's knowledge and expertise in the field of fitness and bodybuilding is unprecedented and his professionalism is second to none. It is without hesitation that I recommend Cabel to anyone looking to compete competitively or simply improve their level of physical fitness.

Pat Lessard