02 May 2023
Hashim started coaching back in January 2022. I remember our start point well, he had thought about competing in a physique contest for a while but he wasn’t sure if he had the confidence to step on stage. I believed in Hashim’s goal and this is what gave him the push to go for it. We got to work by finishing his gaining phase off, putting him in an ideal start point for a 20 week prep towards the stage. Every week of the journey was mapped out, which helped Hashim to feel confident with every decision made and ultimately trust the process.
We competed at the UKDFBA Caledonian Classic in June, narrowly missing out on third place, with the feedback of having great shape but requiring a little more size for next time. Nonetheless, it was a fantastic day and this was the start of Hashim believing in his own ability and setting his sights on the Caledonian classic in 2024 to come back for redemption.
Size is required and that's exactly what we are working on, now half way through Hashim’s first structured off- season. His strength is flying and progress is being made across the board. Having recently trained with him, I know he is going to go far in this sport as he trains extremely hard and is continually hungry to learn more. This is just the beginning for Hashim, stay tuned for his comeback in 2024!
Here’s what Hashim had to say:
“Throughout my journey in working with Chris I achieved something I hadn't imagined I ever would. Being happy in myself and confident. Let me take you on a little narrative. I grew up and was quite obese and had a few underlying health conditions. Nothing major but some things I perhaps used mentally to make an excuse for the way I looked and how unfit I was. I overcame that eventually and then came across the world of bodybuilding. I had no idea where to start or what to do. I stumbled across Chris one day in the gym and we had a good albeit brief chat. I followed him and found his approach to be quite interesting - a mixture of science, lived experience and empathy. Working with him I decided I would attempt a competition. In the midst of supporting my heavily pregnant wife, working a corporate 45hr per week job and raising a two year old. Chris got me to the point I could step out on stage. More importantly though, he helped me gain a confidence and happiness I've never had before. Thank you Chris”