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23-year-old Kyle Landi has defied expectations to become the first-ever Canadian bodybuilder with Down’s syndrome to step onto the competitive stage. Despite facing learning disabilities associated with his genetic condition, Landi has mastered the principles of bodybuilding, a testament to his undying spirit.

Landi was recognized as the True Novice Bodybuilding Champ and the inaugural recipient of the Spirit of Determination Award at the 2023 Pure Muscle Fitness event. He has become a sensation in the bodybuilding world. He was invited as a special guest to the prestigious 2023 Arnold Classic where he posed with the bodybuilding legend Arnold Schwarzenegger. But it was his picture with his stepdad just after becoming the first Canadian Down Syndrome Bodybuilder that is making everyone tear up.

Kyle Landi shared a heartfelt moment with stepdad

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Landi, took to his Instagram to celebrate this historic moment, he posted a throwback picture with his stepdad, Joe Dominie, moments after winning the award. In his caption, Landi expressed his excitement, stating, “With my homie and stepdad @joedominie Moments after becoming the first Canadian Down Syndrome Bodybuilder.” Kyle Landi’s biggest supporter and training partner is his stepdad, Joe Dominie, a police officer from Nova Scotia. Their close bond extends to attending events together, including the 2022 Mr. Olympia in Las Vegas. At the fan expo, Landi, with a determination that astonishes even his father, spotted a pull-up booth and immediately went to showcase his strength with chin-ups.

 

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A post shared by Kyle Landi (@greenrangerkyle)

Before diving into bodybuilding, Landi struggled with underconfidence, often walking with his head down and slouched shoulders. However, the transformative power of the sport has had a profound effect on him. According to Dominie, in a recent interview, Landi’s posture has changed dramatically.

READ MORE: Bodybuilding Sensation With Down Syndrome Looks Back at His Best Memory From 2023 as He Trained With Former Mr. Olympia

“Now you see him walking in with his chest up, shoulders back. His communication skills have improved. He’s a different young man than he was in January,” proudly shared Dominie, highlighting the positive impact of bodybuilding on Landi’s confidence and overall demeanor. As he continues to make waves in the sport, he is gearing up to earn a black belt and become a standout at bodybuilding competitions. He dedicates himself to rigorous training and perfecting bodybuilding poses. This means only one thing for this young gun, his future is only as limited as his imagination and from the looks of it, his mind is running far ahead of anyone around him.

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What lies ahead for Landi

Landi has announced his future endeavors, “We are making history and heading to the @ronniecoleman8 Classic in May. Let’s gooooo.” As Landi gears up for the upcoming Ronnie Coleman Classic in May, the anticipation for this trailblazing bodybuilder continues to grow.

But this is only the beginning for Landi. He has already gained the respect of everyone in the fitness community, including that of the king Ronnie Coleman and the Terminator, Arnold Schwarzenegger and it’s only a matter of time before he starts competing for titles.

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