2018 NPAA Magazine 2018 NPAA Magazine - This is Our Sport | Page 10

Manuel Dufresne NPAA elite pro bodybuilding & IPE pro men’s physique Tell us a little bit about your career, what are you currently up to? I am a full-time project manager in the construction industry. I started on the tools 8 years ago and worked my way up through hard work. I am also pursuing a part-time MBA to further advance my career. How do you find time to balance your career with your fitness goals? I n the end, it all comes down to creating habits and planning ahead. Every Sunday I meal prep for the week. Every day, I hit the gym after work, on my way home. I also have a yearly training & diet plan to ensure all the efforts are aimed towards the same goal, which is peaking for a competition. Why do you compete with the NPAA, what has been the highlight? The first time I competed in the NPAA I was hooked, everybody is friendly and the atmosphere backstage is great. I felt welcomed even though I didn’t know anyone there. The NPAA is an excellent platform for natural athletes to showcase their talents. My highlight was winning my IPE Pro Card at the 2017 Nationals. Who do you hope to inspire ? I strive to be the best man I can, and I hope to inspire others to do the same. I believe that a great man is wise and strong. Exercising your body is just as important as training your mind. If you could travel anywhere in the world where would you go? I would go to Thailand. Beaches, kickboxing, and delicious food sound like a good time! What is your favourite exercise and why? Dumbbell lateral raises. I think broad shoulders are the staple of an impressive physique. 9.