Supplement Judge Speaks to Matt Crane

For this weeks interview we got to speak to Matt Crane, an Optimum Nutrition sponsored athlete telling us about what it takes to be a fitness model and successful rugby player. I’ve known Matt for quite some time having played alongside him at the same rugby club, granted a couple of years more senior to me, but will never forget that one time in pre-season training when I beat him on a pitch-length sprint. Not sure if that could be replicated today, nonetheless, he’s a great guy and athlete who has gone on to achieve a lot of awesomeness including becoming a WBFF Competitor! And it gives me great pleasure in saying that we’ve had the pleasure of interviewing him to learn about some of the tips and tricks of the trade.
Could you tell us a bit about yourself and your background?

I am a coach based in London. Working at Equinox in Kensington. I also do online coaching from my own company BE Elite.

 
How long have you been training for?

 I have been training for about 7 years.

 

How did you get started in training?

I got started training when I started playing rugby, being one of the smaller guys (13 stone) I needed to pack on some size! I’m sitting around 18 stone.

 

Who got you motivated to start training?

 I was motivated to train by the great one himself Arnold! Currently a big inspiration for me is Jaco De Bruyn.

 

What are your short and long term fitness goals?

Short term is win my WBFF Pro Card. Long term is to own my own gym and build my brand BE Elite.

What workout routine has worked best for you?

The training style that works best for me is heavy lifting coupled with high volume. I respond very well to that.

Could you outline your basic daily diet?

My typical diet will normally consist of a protein and fat breakfast, along with protein and fat meals throughout the day with carbs based around my workouts.

Do you use supplements? If so, what do you recommend?

My supplement protocol is very simple. I use Optimum Nutrition Hydro Whey, fish oils, ZMA and amino acids. I recommend supplements to all my clients, I am a firm believer that if you can afford them, use them.

Do you have post/pre-workout meals? What’s your favourite?

Pre workout I tend to stick to a easily digestable carb like white fish and green veg. Post workout I will have a protein shake, then about an hour later protein and carbs. My favourite post work out meal is chicken thighs and homemade sweet potato fries!

 

How do you deal with things such as hunger and cravings?

Hunger and cravings I will tend to get when I am dieting for a competition or shoot. To be honest I ensure that my food is wholesome, I consume most of my calories from whole food and I also just get on with it! Simple as it sounds it’s normally the best way!!

Do you have any cheat meals?

My cheat meals will tend to consist of a trip to a local Nando’s! I do allow myself to eat what I like from time to time as I believe this is essential when trying to create a healthy balance but who doesn’t love a Nando’s!

What is your biggest motivation to get you back in the gym?

I will never leave the gym. My motivation is to constantly beat my self. I am my biggest competition and make sure to raise the bar every time I hit the iron!

If you could go back in time, what would you change in your training?

I don’t think I would change anything, purely for my journey has been a learning curve and each day, rep and session has led me to where I am now.

Any advice for beginners or anyone looking to get back into fitness?

For beginner, keep it simple. This is the most effective method. Stick to one method at a time and listen to one voice. Over time, develop your own strategy and methods whilst opening yourself up to new and different ideas.

What advice do you to anyone looking to gain mass?

Advice for gaining mass in my eyes comes down to this… Get out your comfort zone and lift heavy. Force your body to adapt. Secondly, eat. Fuel your body and in such a way it compliments your goals. I saw a good quote once… Train, eat and sleep the way the body you want does.

Anything else you’d like to add?

Thank you for your time buddy, it’s a pleasure to speak with SJ! 😉

 

And you can follow Matt through his social media profiles include Facebook, Twiter (@mattcranept) and his personal training website!