1. Can you share the pivotal moment or realisation that motivated you to embark on your fitness journey, ultimately leading you to bodybuilding?
I was morbidly obese weighing 500 lbs, had high blood pressure and high blood sugar, depression was constantly bullied.
I felt like I was not living anymore, I felt I was just existing, but the pivotal moment that led me to change was to be able to play with my children and take care of them!
2. Transitioning from your previous lifestyle to committing to your current one is an incredible transformation. What were some of the biggest challenges you faced during this journey, and how did you overcome them?
I now weigh 100 kilos with only 7 percent body fat, but the biggest obstacle I faced in losing more than half of my body weight was learning how to eat right and not sacrifice the enjoyment of food, I had to try different diets and fail with most of them to eventually discover what was right but still enjoyable for me, I guess the key is, never stop trying until you figure out what works for you, you would fail many times, but failure is not the lack of success, rather failure is a part of success, and eventually you will get there. after all – ” success is going from failure to failure without loss of enthusiasm”
3. Bodybuilding or physique competitions require a high level of dedication and discipline. Could you describe your key habits that played a significant role in your success?
My key habit is enjoying the process, the journey is as important or even more important than the goal because the process is where you grow, and learn more about yourself and your capabilities, the end goal is just the culmination but the process is where it all happens!
4. Do you do other sports or activities that contribute to your current active lifestyle and/or are part of your daily ordinary routine?
I do a cycling commute every day, fitness is not exclusive to the gym, fitness is in our hearts, it’s a way of life, it’s what defines us, it’s who we are!
5. Your story is undoubtedly inspiring, and you’ve achieved remarkable results. How do you envision using your experience and success to inspire and support others on their path to improved health and fitness?
From 500 lbs I eventually won Century Tuna Superbods 1st runner up 2018 and it is my advocacy to show people that it can be done, you can be fit and keep it for life and get the life you deserve and dream of, I’m invited to tv interviews; podcasts; fitness events to share the word of hope, self-love, and body positivity
6. Many individuals struggle to initiate a fitness journey due to self-doubt or a lack of motivation. What advice would you give to someone who is considering a similar transformation but feels hesitant or overwhelmed?
Take small steps, and small changes, but make it consistent, and make it a habit. In our time of “get it fast, get it quick mentality”, most people often get burned [out] venturing into fitness thinking it is easy, but it is not! But it is always worth it to invest in your own fitness, no matter how slow, as long as it is consistent, you will achieve your dream, great things take time, and fitness is no exception. So dare to be brave, dare to dream, dare to live!!! The time is now.
In closing, Jerome Salvado’s journey is a reminder that change is within reach, regardless of where you begin. Whether you aim to shed excess weight, boost your health, or pursue a newfound passion, the power to transform is in your hands. His story underlines the importance of taking small, consistent steps and the value of embracing the process. From 500 pounds to a fitness inspiration, Jerome embodies the daring spirit of self-improvement. Remember, the decision to start your journey is yours alone, but the path to success is made more attainable with perseverance, self-love, and unyielding enthusiasm. Your journey begins today.
