Bodybuilder heads to Italy to compete
The 30-year-old, who is also a fitness trainer, qualified for the international competition after competing in the IBBF All Africa Cup held in Pretoria on September 24, last year, and says he has plans to help people excel in the sport.
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ALMOST a year after his very first bodybuilding competition, Essenwood resident Yeskiel Naraindath is heading to Taranto, Italy, to compete in the International BodyBuilding Fitness Federation (IBFF) Mr and Ms Universe Competition on Saturday, May 27.
Naraindath says he is proud to represent his country on this international platform and show what South African athletes have to offer. “I want to show that we are equally determined to win with our drive and passion for the sport, and I want to make our country proud,” he said.
The 30-year-old, who is also a fitness trainer, qualified for the international competition after competing in the IBBF All Africa Cup held in Pretoria on September 24, last year, and says he has plans to help people excel in the sport. “I want to provide a platform for all of those who have been interested in this sport but have not been able to get started. I intend to use this platform to promote fitness and general health awareness to our youth and community. At the beginning of 2023, I was appointed development manager for the IBFF KZN. My aim is to find those youngsters who have a passion and thirst for fitness and aid them with training and diet plans and offer them opportunities to participate in this sport, which will inadvertently give them a sense of direction and stimulate their minds and impact their lives, in a positive manner. To this end, the IBFF hosts events such as athlete seminars, group training and road shows, which allow the youth to meet role models, each with their own story to tell,” he said.
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Naraindath says he is passionate about helping people reach their own fitness goals. “Having also struggled with weight issues, as a teenager, I understand every client’s frustrations with continuously trying to get fit and healthy. I am able to relate with them on a grassroots level. I made a decision to make lifestyle changes over a period of time that enabled me to be at this stage of my life. I want to educate people on how to achieve a balanced lifestyle. With a positive mindset, you can accomplish anything and everything.”
His advice to people who want to start bodybuilding or who are beginners in the sport: “Set yourself goals, and follow through on them, no matter how tough it gets. Perseverance and fighting through to the ‘light at the end of the tunnel’ is the ultimate ‘win’. Don’t be afraid of obstacles – they build your character, become your armour and make you more determined to succeed. Find a mentor who will have your best interests at heart and drive you to success. Your goal is their goal, as well. Success is not an overnight occurrence … it takes time, so be committed to the journey. Give it your all, and success is guaranteed!”
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