BASE Lowdown: Personal Training Coach John
John is a Thai/Filipino strength and conditioning coach who is both friendly and serious about results. John believes that getting your nutrition right is essential to getting results, so he works closely with his personal training clients in creating meal plans and guiding them on the correct way to eat. His passion for lifting has lead him to research further in functional work and mobility drills to help the body stay healthy and help prevent injuries. Over the years he has helped his clients to get strong and functional as well as help them achieve the physique of their dreams. Learn more about Coach John on his BASE team profile page.
What’s non-negotiable for you when it comes to fitness and health?
A quick fix, there is no such thing. Just like everything in this world it takes time. Trust the process and greatness will follow. Rome wasn’t built in a day.
What’s a typical breakfast for you?
Protein shake, omega 3 eggs, bacon, bread.
How do you manage your training and diet when you’re on holiday?
My diet I don’t manage, holidays are meant to be enjoyed not stressed on. Training, however, I find the nearest gym that has the equipment I need. No stress factor with training since training makes me feel good.
What’s your best strategy to stay motivated?
None. You either have the motivation or you don’t. If you don’t, then find it. You cannot fake motivation on an individual if it doesn’t dwell within. There is no strategy to keep the fire burning. Like every great athlete says, there are off days, there’s no way around it, you just have to suck it up and do it.
“You either have the motivation or you don’t. If you don’t, then find it. You cannot fake motivation…”
-John
The best thing we can do for ourselves is…
Live life to its fullest. Whatever it may be.
What’s your go-to snack?
Water.
What do you do to relax?
Train, study, movies, ps4, seeing/being with my woman (Rusia).
What’s your post-workout routine?
A shot of caffeine, then a bike ride to the gym.
Sum up your dietary approach in a sentence?
Refine rather than restrict.
Being a good personal trainer means…
First and foremost knowing that knowledge is not power, applied knowledge is. Having the ability to make decisions through scientific principles (obtained through experience and application). Prioritizing clients needs based on their capabilities. Patience.
What’s the biggest diet mistake or misconception?
“eat clean.”
“carbs are bad.”
What are your top tips for how to keep your energy levels up?
Sleep at least 7 to 8 hrs. Get this right everything else will follow.
I believe everyone should…
Experience the wonders of being the strongest they’re capable of being. Physically and mentality.
3,2,1… GO
Best Bangkok Healthy Eatery?
Favorite Cheat Meal? I don’t believe in cheat meals. To view a food you love as a “cheat” meal is living in a lifestyle of restriction.
Favorite Exercise? Barbell back squat
Most-hated exercise? Barbell back squat (love hate relationship)
Weird fact about you? Me, everything about me is weird
One thing you can’t live without? Progress in whatever form.