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96 || FITNESS MAGAZINE || AUGUST 2015For up and comers I cannot say enough to take your time and find a company you truly have an admiration for. Don%u2019t represent a company just because it%u2019s a sponsor. I did that in the beginning and found myself behind a brand I didn%u2019t agree with and or like all for the sake to tie myself to an entity bigger than myself. So be picky and don%u2019t take the first opportunity that comes your way. FMM: There are a lot of programs out there focusing on physique and others on strength. Is there a happy middle ground where you can obtain strength gains and a stage performing physique?BF: Yes, there most definitely are. Many athletes (such as Steve Cook, Mike Ohearn, Craig Capurso, etc.) all do functional training within their training programs. Mike has his %u201cPower Bodybuilding%u201d program which most definitely makes you stronger, and can sculpt you to a stage ready physique. For me, I add in some plyometric days, do some outdoor training, and change up my routines along with my standardized training to help keep me fit, strong, and keep my physique looking good year round.FMM: Who are your favorite competitors in the industry, both male and female, and why are they your favorites?BF: That is a TOUGH question. I am blessed to know a large majority of competitors as I am a competitor myself, a coach, and a sponsored athlete. With that there are SO MANY amazing athletes out there. Some you have heard of, some you haven%u2019t.If I chose a few I would have to choose Craig Capurso, Nicole Wilkens, Steve Cook, Alex Carneiro, and of course my wife, Amber Dawn Fokken. I would pick these individuals based on their work ethic, physiques, no quit attitudes %u2013 but first and foremost their willingness to help lift others up. They take the time to help encourage, motivate, and educate others on their own quests to greatness. To me, that stands above any personal accomplishments.FMM: What is the worst advice you have seen someone give in the fitness industry?BF: There could be many answers to this question. A few of them would be to eat under 1000 calories a day while doing 2 or more hours of cardio a day. To do various photoshoots that expose them so that they can further their careers. Nothing could be further from the truth on that one. Also telling a young competitor, female, or someone aspiring to do well that the only way to make that happen is through the use of drugs. FMM: When you are traveling, for leisure or for business, what are your top three fitness items you have to take with you?BF: I always have my FITMARK meal bag packed with my ICON meals which are prepared specifically for me. I have all my BEAST Sports Nutrition Supplements as I never miss a day of