The Fitness Adviser

The Vic Magary Interview: On Fitness, Nutrition, and Training for Results

Filed under: Interviews — Rafi @ 11:55 am June 28, 2009

Vic Magary is a star in the fitness community. He has served in the military, is a black belt martial artist and personal fitness trainer, and for a time was even a lawyer before he quit to pursue his love of martial arts and fitness.

He is also the owner of Gymjunkies.com, an amazing website devoted to hardcore fitness training. If you haven’t been there, check it out. I was lucky enough to score an interview with Vic and ask him a few questions about nutrition, fitness, and his personal training programs. Here’s what he had to say:

It’s pretty well known that you’re a fitness nut. Was there anything in your childhood that motivated you to get seriously into fitness, or is it something that you got interested in later on?

Vic: I started martial arts training when I was 10 years old. So every martial arts kid stumbles across Bruce Lee and I’d have to say he was my first inspiration for fitness. I did lots of knuckle push ups and some weight training as a kid, but nothing serious. Even during college and law school, my fitness training was less than stellar. It wasn’t until my time in the Army that I got serious with my fitness training.

Did being in the military affect how you looked at fitness?

Vic: My time in the military forced me to look at the function of fitness as opposed to just the aesthetics. Whether we were marching with 50 pound ruck sacks or just setting up the huge mess tents, your physical capabilities directly influenced how well (or not so well) you could do your job. It was during this time that I started experimenting with a mix of heavy strength training and high intensity circuit training for optimum fitness.

I understand that you’re a big proponent of heavy weight lifting for both losing weight and gaining strength. How do you feel about doing body weight exercises? Do you think they’re less effective than using weights, more effective, or should be done in conjunction with lifting weights?

Vic: I feel body weight training should be done in conjunction with weight training. In fact, a variety of training modes (weight training, body weight training, sprinting, odd object lifting) is best for overall fitness. We never know what life will bring. You may have to lift your couch or run away from a mugger; the best way to be prepared for the unpredictability of life is to vary your training regimen.

How big a part do you think proper nutrition plays in getting into good shape?

Vic: Nutrition is the most important aspect when it comes to getting in shape. Especially if weight loss is the goal. I recommend a diet based on lots of fruits and vegetables, lean meats, and some nuts and seeds. Avoid grains (breads, pastas, rice, cereal, etc.) and limit dairy. I have yet to see someone stick to this diet and not see their weight go to optimum levels.

You offer some interesting training programs on your site. What sets apart your training programs from others?

Vic: For one, my programs are short. Rarely will you see a program where a session lasts longer than 15 minutes. But it is an intense 15 minutes.

Also, I try to provide options for everyone. In our recent 31 day challenge, I provided workouts for fat loss, muscle building, and strength gains. I also provided options for people who go to the gym and for people who have not equipment. You really don’t need a single piece of equipment to get in shape. Your will to train is the most important thing you need.

Thank you for taking the time for this interview, and I hope to hear from you again soon!

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The Vic Magary Interview: On Fitness, Nutrition, and Training for Results

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