Big Easy…Bourbon St…Bodybuilding…   What?   Bodybuilding?  Yep, New Orleans has a bodybuilding scene not to mention a large and diverse health & fitness community.  As a matter of fact, each year New Orleans (Metairie) hosts a National Physique Committee (NPC), National Qualifiying Bodybuilding competition, the Greater Gulf States.  Last year in 2009, the special guest poser was Dexter Jackson; Dexter Jackson is a former Mr. Olympia.  To those of you who don’t know what being Mr. Olympia means; it’s the title for being the #1 bodybuilder in the world.

Being a Florida bodybuilder newly relocated to New Orleans, I’ve got to tell you, this was a big culture shock for me because fitness isn’t all around like it is in the Daytona Beach/Orlando/Miami areas.  Having said that though, I’m surprised at the number of gyms, health clubs, fitness centers and personal training/boot camps there are in the Greater New Orleans area.  Believe it or not, there are several 24 hour gyms because people do train hard in this town.

–Most recognizable bodybuilding/fitness facilities I’ve trained at:

• French Riviera
• Snap Fitness
• Elmwood
• New Orleans Athletic Club (NOAC)

While traveling around to all of the GNO gyms, I’ve met some great bodybuilders; (former and present) impressive guys who are dedicated and consistent in pursuing their passion of bodybuilding.  Chances are…if you’re training in the GNO area, you’ll run into someone who is in some type of contest prep for a competition.  Some of you might know Mark Marcev, Luke Tesvich, John Blackwell or Chuck Biggio; these are just a few of the great guys I’ve have the chance to train & pose with, as well as, share my thoughts and discuss the bodybuilding scene with in the area.

One thing I find very interesting is how much we’re approached in the gym.  I’m constantly stopped while I’m training because people are fascinated by the type of physique I have.  It’s not too common to see someone that is conditioned and big so people love to ask a lot of questions.  It’s a humbling feeling for me and as much as I’m “in the zone” training I am more than willing to stop to give someone a quick tip.  If I can be a good role model for the sport and help bring bodybuilding out of the closet here in New Orleans than I’m all for it.  I love to see people motivated about bodybuilding!

This is just one of many posts I’ll write about bodybuilding; bodybuilding is my passion.  Let us know what you think about bodybuilding in New Orleans, what shows you’re training for and any other thoughts you have.

Now, let’s get in there and do this!