Inspired by Arnold Schwarzenegger and Ronnie Coleman, Marine Veteran Reveals His Successful Bodybuilding Journey: ?Love Watching People Do the Impossible.?

The bodybuilding sphere represents unhindered passion and determination, and this is imparted by the iconic athletes who dedicate themselves to the sport. One such athlete is Shawn Stinson, a two-time bodybuilding champion who gravitated from the elite Marine Forces to the athletic field. He was not only stunned by his impressive frame but also won two titles in a unique championship that represents his community.?

A recent interview?spotlighted the athlete?s journey to being shredded. Moreover, he also shared the notable celebrities he looked up to while on his fitness escapade.?

Shawn Stinson does the extraordinary

As per Men?s Health interview, the 44-year-old athlete revealed that he joined the Marines Forces only as a teenager at 18, with the hope of a new life out of his small town in Illinois. Determined to enhance his physique, the athlete, weighing a mere 98 pounds back then, intensified his focus on training. Upon his deployment in Iraq, Stinson further elevated his fitness regimen.

However, when assessing his physique eight years after his retirement, the American icon realized he had regressed. An embarrassing encounter with his bank manager urged him to make changes, and this was the start of his new plan. Stinson swore by the 80/20 principle, which cumulates that 80% of the transformation is influenced by a change in diet, and the rest 20 is done by exercises.?

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After receiving much recognition on social media, Stinson joined the first-ever transgender bodybuilding event, FITCON (aka International Association of Trans Bodybuilders & Powerlifters). He championed the event for two years consecutively and eventually became the head judge of the competition in 2019, per Men’s Health.?

Shawn Stinson idolized sports legends

Speaking of his role models, Stinson shared that initially, he was a big track and Field enthusiast. Hence, world record holder Florence Griffith Joyner aka Flo-Jo was his idol, owing to the severe criticism she faced because of her body. Besides that, champions like Arnold Schwarzenegger and Ronnie Coleman were his inspirations in the bodybuilding world.?

Stinson claimed that he believes it?s all about culturing mental strength to create one?s own reality. ?I love watching people do the impossible. I am drawn to mental fortitude, not just physical attributes,? he said.?

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Currently, Stinson shares his wisdom in the fitness sphere as a personal trainer, nutritionist, and life coach. Additionally, he has launched his health-focused program, 80/20 Fit, and seeks to help others struggling with their bodies and physiques. A true inspiration in himself.