Adam Travis has spent his entire life in the gym, learning everything there is to know about being an athlete.

So, when he decided to take the leap from weightlifting to bodybuilding, he was surrounded by an incredible support network, guiding him every step of the way.

Competing in a bodybuilding show has been on Adam’s bucket list for as long as he can remember. Achieving some impressive accolades in both weightlifting and powerlifting, it seemed only fitting to take the transition into this new sport and accomplish his goal.

Therefore, when the opportunity arose to take part in the PCA First Timers Bodybuilding show in Hull, Adam grasped the chance with both hands.

“I knew it would be so far out of my comfort zone, and that’s one of the reasons I wanted to do it.

“The whole experience of the way the competition was run and how professional it all felt was fantastic. It was truly a great experience,” he said.

To prepare for this life change, Adam had to journey through a strict training regime and intense 6-month diet.

The training, however, was easier to accept. It was the food that posed a bigger challenge.

“In bodybuilding the other 22 hours away from the gym are paramount. Diet and recovery are what build the body.

“My nutrition was so regimented, I had to weigh out every gram of every meal. It felt relentless sometimes and the organisation levels were crazy.

“I didn’t have any slip ups in my diet, no treats were allowed, and I couldn’t even have a splash of milk in my coffee,” Adam said.

But it wasn’t just the physical preparations that played a part in his life.

“The sport of bodybuilding is a judgement on someone’s appearance, and that is something that really triggered some self-esteem issues that I wanted to conquer.

“A big part of this was about facing my fears, rather than taking up a new sport. When you get closer to the competition day, you start to panic that you’re not ready.

“For me it was incredibly important that I had people around me supporting me. My wife, Sam, was amazing and so were the members of our gym, it feels more like a family, and everyone pulled together to support me.”

Video: PCA Bodybuilding 

The constant sculpting of the body and the rigorous diet played tricks in Adam’s mind, fooling him into thinking he needed to do more to succeed. But, stepping away from this judgement and reminding himself that he was a beginner allowed him to enjoy the journey he was on.

These impressive levels of dedication and will to succeed paid off for Adam, who was ‘elated’ to place 2nd in his debut competition.

“There were 7 others in my category, but they only announce the top 4 in placed positions. If you’re less than 4th, you have no idea where you finished.

“They announced 4th and 3rd and I thought I might’ve done well. But then my mind flickered and I thought I might not have placed.

“When they announced my name as 2nd place I was elated, I was so over the moon,” he said.

But this achievement was a side success for Adam, who already felt like a champion after sticking to his diet and training.

“I felt that intrinsic reward and pride even before my name was called.

“2nd place was the best outcome for me, it meant I know I can improve, and it’s given me some drive to go forward into next season.”

From chasing numbers to chiselling his athletic figure, his bodybuilding debut proved to be a huge success and the start of an impressive new career.

Head Coach at Triple X Performance Centre in Stalybridge, Trav spends his time helping others to achieve their goals, whatever they may be. Alongside his wife, Sam, the perfect pair help to assist their members to live the life of their dreams.

Juggling running their gym, as well as family life, Adam and Sam are proud to compete in their respective sports, earning incredible accolades and sharing this success with their clients.

They will be launching a 12-week fat loss nutrition plan in January, aimed at men over 30. In this plan, they will tackle exercise, body image, confidence and mental health. 

This could be the perfect way to kickstart your new year and gain some motivation. 

Adam’s taste of success in bodybuilding will undoubtedly be the first of many. But, for now, he will enjoy a well-deserved off season, celebrating the festive season with this family.

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