Page 46 - Demo

46 || MOST FITNESS || MAY 2016MFM: What were some challenges you faced in the beginning? How do those compare from the ones you face today?AT: I faced several factors working against my success in the beginning; many of which still to this day try to creep up on me from time to time! My tattoos were, and still can be a hard thing for some people to accept. What I have learned along this journey, is that my look works for certain demographics and specific brandings. I%u2019m not your typical Ralph Lauren model, but I can guarantee you%u2019d glance at some of the Calvin Klein ads I would shoot in. I like to be different, and see that carrying me further than copying others%u2019 ever would. I appreciate those who are just themselves, and it works. In this modern day society, with social media influence, so many people try too hard to be something they aren%u2019t, missing the value that originality holds the entire time.MFM: How do you feel you have grown as an individual throughout your transformation process?AT: I feel that I have grown immensely, mentally, and emotionally, and am continuing that growth every single day. I have learned so much about people, and I am still so intrigued to learn more as I grow myself. We live in a fascinating world, surrounded by different things, and influences. I am still learning how to walk around in this world every day, taking it all in for its beauty and for all that it has to offer. My business sense is becoming keener, and I am very blessed to be surrounded by some very intelligent and business savvy individuals.MFM: How has being the son of a power lifter impacted your fitness experience?AT: If anything it has motivated and pushed me! My father has always been a positive source of inspiration for me, and I am never letting him down in any way. I%u2019m grateful to have had him my whole life there teaching me and helping me grow into the man I am today both in my personal life, and in the gym and athletics. All of my brothers and I are athletes, and I can give that credit to our father who took the time to work with us all and cared to see us outshine the other kids. We have had the best influence any kids could have, and I love my father for it.