By Rebecca Drew
MEET the hunky bodybuilder with rippling abs who swapped basketball for weightlifting and has since placed fifth in a national contest celebrating the sport.
Incredible transformation photographs show how Ivan Lumbera (21) from Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada built his impressive musclebound physique. It took Ivan two-and-half-years to go from 13st 3lbs to 12st 2lbs.
Bodybuilding has boosted Ivan’s confidence and pictures reveal him showcasing his beast-like broad shoulders, impressive six pack and strong thighs which have seen him be successful in many competitions.
“During my time in high school, I kept up with sports such as basketball, football and track and field. As that came to an end, I knew I had to stay active so I chose this lifestyle,” said Ivan.
“Fitness has played an immense role in my life teaching me valuable things such as patience, perseverance and most importantly, to be confident.
“My first bodybuilding show was with the local show in my province, Manitoba Amateur Bodybuilding Association (MABBA), in October 2016. I competed in the classic physique division and placed first in my class along with the best poser and the X-Factor award of the night.
“A couple months later, I competed in the MABBA Provincial in June of 2017. I was determined to bring in a better package, and I’m glad to say that the hard work paid off. I placed first in my class, giving me a qualification for Nationals which took place in July this year in Edmonton, Alberta.
“Needless to say, I made my national debut worthwhile, placing fifth among the best in Canada. To this day, I’m beyond grateful to announce that bodybuilding has changed my life for the better, being able to inspire others as I have once been.”
Before achieving his Adonis-like physique, Ivan would eat three big meals a day but now fuels himself by eating four to six smaller portions each day. Ivan preps his meals for the week and they typically feature, chicken, fish, steak, rice, sweet potatoes and vegetables. At the weekends however, he allows himself the occasional cheat meal.
“Keeping consistent is a very important aspect in weight lifting as I live by the quote, “great things take time”, with regards to my diet, I found that eating in small portions and frequently is better than eating two to three big meals in a day,” he added.
“Once someone finds their passion in weight training, working out does not become a chore. It is the diet that can be the most challenging if you want to achieve great results.
“If anyone else wants to get into this, honestly, I would say just go for it. You have nothing to lose and all to gain, pun intended.
“It will be very hard in the beginning, I know, but the journey will most definitely be worth it.”
For more information see www.instagram.com/ivanlumberafitness
