David Odom
IFBB MENS PHYSIQUE PRO
Posted: 6/28/16
Special Note: David earned his IFBB Pro Card by winning his class at Masters Nationals on July 20, 2016 after this feature was published. Congrats David!
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Every once in awhile someone comes along and raises the bar when it comes to competing... this time that person is David Odom. David didn't just come along to compete, David came along and made his physique the talk of many shows in the Pacific Northwest by winning Overall in Masters and Open classes in not one, but almost every show he has entered.
David's physique showcases structure and balance that is quality enough for any IFBB Pro stage and this summer David will be taking his physique to the National stages to see if that happens. Aside from his physique, his calm and cool presentation style sets him apart from many competitors because he makes it look easy.
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1. When and why did you decide to start competing?
I've had friends mention I should compete for years but I never really thought it would fit me. I'm shy, modest and have a huge sweet tooth. Getting on stage and dieting for months didn't seem like something i would enjoy. Fast forward a number of years and I had grown bored with my normal workout routines. I hired a trainer, Aaron Orton, to push my and expand my knowledge on lifts/workouts. Aaron's background in competing and training others for shows drew me to him and it was only a matter of time before I was talked into competing.
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2. What makes you want to go farther in the sport?
I'm competitive and driven to succeed. Whether it's a game of cards, a city league sport, or marksmanship, I love a good challenge and pushing myself physically.
3. What type of training do you implement during contest prep and the in the off-season?
I've been competing for only 9 months now and I haven't really taken an "off" season yet. I've been working out consistently for 20 yrs now. Most of my past training was traditional 5-7 exercises with 3 sets and medium reps. I never really worked for strength or 1 rep Max's. Mostly on my own and self taught until working with Aaron last year. I generally lift one body part a day (back, biceps, chest, triceps, shoulders, legs) and just rotate through them. I lift with Aaron three days a week. With higher volume and conscientious of targeting certain areas.
4. What is your favorite type of dieting meals and what is your favorite type of cheat meal?
If I'm making my own foods I make a lot of chicken/ground turkey, sweet potato/yams, Greek yogurt and cottage cheese. This spring I've been using Alpha Meals, a local meal prep company run by another competitor, to save time and energy. The meals are structured for my needs, convenient, well made and delicious. You can find Alpha Meals on FB.... For cheat meals I like a good burger or donuts for my sweet tooth.
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5. Who are some of the people that have helped you along the way to get where you are now in life or in the sport?
Aaron Orton (training, nutrition, posing, mentor), Angle Starr Saucier (mentor, Team Alpha Starr), Andre Scott (Posing), Sand Kam (mentor), Tom Wiens (Max Muscle, Mentor)
6. Who or what inspires you to strive for more in the sport?
The pursuit of a better and more well-rounded me. Both in my physical appearance as well as my personal growth as it relates to who I am as a person.
7. What is next for you as a competitor?
Getting my IFBB Pro card at the Teen, Collegiate and Masters Nationals July 20th in Pittsburgh! Then competing as a pro at the North Americans in Pittsburgh the following month.
8. What is your favorite memory good or bad while prepping or competing?
Winning the Men's Physique Open Overall at the 2016 NPC Emerald Cup. There were a lot of great competitors and this was a very prestigious NPC competition. I was humbled and honored to receive that recognition. I'm still in awe that that occurred.
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9. Any website you would like to plug, Facebook, Twitter, personal site, etc...
You can find me on Facebook and Instagram, Team Alpha Starr- @teamalphastarr #alphastarr, Posing Perfection- @posingperfection503 #posingperfection
10. Anything you would like to say to all the visitors to NPC Oregon?
Welcome to the NW fitness community. You'll find the competitors, coaches, trainers, judges and promoters to be some of the friendliest, down to earth and accessible resources in the industry. There is no reason why you can't be successful and find untapped potential and growth if you invest in yourself. Keep challenging yourself. Keep grinding.