Thembho doesn’t allow distractions to deter his goals
Thembho Manganyi says bodybuilding is a tough sport that requires a lifestyle of commitment, training and constantly perfecting one's body through discipline.
LIMPOPO – Thembho Manganyi will participate in the 2022 National Physique Committee International Bodybuilding Fitness Federation Worldwide African Pro Qualifier, which takes place in the Walter Sisulu Hall at the Randburg Sport Centre from December 2-4.
Manganyi was born and bred in Waterval.
He started his primary school education at Djunane Primary School and matriculated at Makhado Comprehensive High School.
He graduated from the University of Nelson Mandela where he studied Information Technology Software Development.
He started to participate in bodybuilding in 2019 and competed in his first tournament in 2020.
“I was taught to believe in my dreams and myself. Bodybuilding is a tough sport that requires a lifestyle of commitment, training and constantly perfecting one’s body through discipline. There is no room for toxic substances. The diet on its own is challenging as you always have to stick to healthy food. You can’t eat any form of junk food, which is not always easy, but because I know what I want to achieve as a bodybuilder I don’t allow myself to get distracted from my goals.”
To Manganyi, it is the grace and wisdom of God that helps him to fulfil his passion every day.
“Bodybuilding is a sport that stops young people from engaging in bad habits, such as drugs and alcohol, because you spend lots of time at the gym and focus on being healthy. But it is a costly sport that demands a lot of financial support, which can be another challenge.”
He says that bodybuilding is sometimes associated with arrogance, bullying and negative pride, but this, he believes, is stereotypical thinking. He also wants to change the perception that the heavy use of steroids is a requirement for this sport.
