Conquering The Platform-Mark Monson

Louisiana Lifter, Mark Monson, has pursued strength throughout his life thanks to parents who set a positive example both in and out of the gym. 

Weight training and fitness have been a part of my life as far back as I can remember. Both of my parents strongly influenced me to play sports at a young age. I can remember going to the gym with each of them and begging to lift the weights so I could train just like they were doing. I wanted to have muscles and be strong.

Their influence carried with me into highschool wrestling. During the off season, I found myself in local gyms in order to stay fit for the upcoming season. My friends and I had our favorite bodybuilders, powerlifters and strongmen we all mimicked and wanted to be like. After highschool, I entered college and served in the Louisiana Army National Guard. Weight training and fitness remained a top priority, it had become a part of my everyday life at this point. Of course, all the guys my age were working out, we all wanted to look good for the girls.

A few years later, I began a career in law enforcement. Despite the crazy hours and schedule I was always determined to train. This proved to be quite a challenge at times, work, life, ups and downs but I never truely strayed away. Im suppose to be a good example, a leader and maintaining a healthy mind and body is what gets you through to the end of your career and beyond.

Within the past four years I was introduced by a friend to a local hardcore gym as it was explained to me. I was told this place is right up your alley, you will love it is how it was put to me. The first night I walked into that door I fell in love!!! Bodydoctors Gym, owned and operated by the local legend Mr. John Trapani. The gym consisted of some of the biggest and strongest guys in the area, with a strong powerlifting influence. It was here that I was encouraged and introduced by the members to the sport of powerlifting. I would soon find myself competing in a local nonsanctioned meet were I took first place in my weight class and I havent looked back since.

Powerlifting came to satisfy that hunger of competition I was looking for. It also came to serve as a positive healthy outlet, a therapy of sorts, for dealing with what life throws to all of us on a daily basis. The feeling of stepping on the platform, the rush of adrenaline, you against the weights, words can't describe it and there is no better feeling in this world. I LOVE this sport.

The influence of Body Doctors Gym, Mr. John Trapani and the entire Louisiana Powerlifting Community have been life changing. Their influence has led to me setting submaster state records in the 198lb weight class and Im currently training for a meet were I will compete in the 181lb weight class. I have my mind focused on setting records in this weight class as well, Im a big dreamer and set big goals for myself. This opportunity with Intense Attire makes this journey even more exciting and I can't wait to see what else this journey holds in store for me down the road.

We all face challenges in life. Life is tough, we all go through ups and downs, trials and tribulations. I find that remaining disciplined, committed and focused with my training makes the hard times in life a little easier and has brought a ton of positive influence into my life.