Last Updated on December 22, 2023
Gary Ruiz, a 21-year-old Filipino born and raised in Australia, has taken the Australian bodybuilding scene by storm. From his humble beginnings to standing on prestigious stages, his journey is nothing short of inspiring. Let’s delve into the life and achievements of this budding bodybuilder.
Early Years and First Victories
Gary Ruiz’s entry into the world of bodybuilding in 2007 marked the beginning of an extraordinary career. His debut at the NABBA Junior’s Category resulted in an impressive 3rd place, setting the stage for subsequent triumphs.
Winning Streak: NABBA and IFBB Titles
The same year witnessed Gary Ruiz’s ascendancy with victories in the Junior category at NABBA and the Junior IFBB State Titles in WA, Australia. These accomplishments drew attention, leading to a unique opportunity to train with the legendary Jay Cutler.
A Pose Down with Jay Cutler
In a rare encounter, Gary Ruiz shared the stage with Jay Cutler in Perth after the Olympia’s. This collaboration earned him not only the respect of his peers but also a feature in the December 2007 issue of Muscle Mag.
Family Roots and Athletic Bloodline
Gary’s roots trace back to Malaga, Spain, where his father, Mr. Angelo Ruiz, hails from, while his mother, Mrs. Luz Ruiz, is from Calumpit, Bulacan, Philippines. His older brother, Lester, shares his passion for sports, especially boxing, with aspirations to follow in Gary’s footsteps.
The Genesis: How Gary Started in Bodybuilding
Driven by a desire to transform from a skinny kid who faced teasing into a formidable force, Gary embarked on his bodybuilding journey. Starting with makeshift dumbbells, he evolved into a dedicated athlete, training at local gyms and drawing inspiration from bodybuilding icons like Ronnie Coleman.
Aspirations and Goals
Gary’s current focus is on winning the Juniors title, but his vision extends beyond. His aspirations for the next decade remain open-ended, acknowledging the unpredictable trajectory of the bodybuilding world.
Multifaceted Athlete: Beyond Bodybuilding
While bodybuilding takes center stage, Gary Ruiz also indulges in boxing, showcasing his versatility in the realm of sports.
Sibling Camaraderie and Boxing Aspirations
Lester, Gary’s older brother, shares his love for boxing. Having met Manny Pacquiao and trained with Buboy Fernandez, Lester gears up for his first amateur fight, embodying the Ruiz family’s dedication to combat sports.
Training Philosophy and Regimen
Gary’s philosophy on training is simple yet profound: “Train hard and heavy.” He frequents various gyms, with Murdoch University being his primary training ground.
Supplementation and Nutrition
Delving into his supplementation routine, Gary relies on creatine and glutamine, with a mass gainer as backup. Emphasizing whole foods, he prefers obtaining nutrients from natural sources.
Candid Perspective on Bodybuilding and Drugs
Addressing the pervasive issue of drugs in bodybuilding, Gary acknowledges the controversy. He echoes Jay Cutler’s sentiment that audiences crave larger-than-life physiques, contributing to the perpetual presence of drugs in the sport.
Pre-Contest and Off-Season Diet
Gary’s meticulous diet involves seven meals a day during pre-contest, comprising egg whites, oats, tuna, chicken, steak, and potatoes or brown rice. In the off-season, he allows a more relaxed regimen with six meals and occasional indulgences.
Inspirations and Role Models
Arnold Schwarzenegger stands out as Gary Ruiz’s primary inspiration, admired for his wisdom and the journey from humble beginnings. Kevin Levrone also earns praise for his discipline and intensity in the gym.
Critique on Modern Bodybuilding
Expressing discontent with the contemporary trend of blocky physiques, Gary longs for the return of the classical physique reminiscent of the ’70s.
Self-Reflection: Best and Worst Qualities
Gary’s mental focus and determination, deemed his best qualities, come with a downside of excessive seriousness. Striking a balance remains a personal challenge.
Life’s Priorities and Pivotal Moments
For Gary Ruiz, friends and family take precedence. Reflecting on the lowest point in his life, he recounts the challenges faced in high school, battling racism and negative comments, particularly from his father.
Words of Wisdom and Gratitude
In a message to young bodybuilders, Gary Ruiz advocates for heavy training, consistency, and unwavering self-belief. Expressing gratitude, he thanks mentors like Big Lui and Brad Mcmillan, as well as his friends and family for their unwavering support.
Gary Ruiz’s journey from a skinny kid facing ridicule to a competitive bodybuilder reflects resilience, determination, and an unwavering commitment to his craft. As he sets his sights on future competitions, his story serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes in the dynamic world of bodybuilding.
FAQs about Gary Ruiz
- Q: How did Gary’s encounter with Jay Cutler influence his career?
- A: Gary’s pose down with Jay Cutler not only earned him recognition but also a coveted opportunity to train with the bodybuilding legend, shaping the trajectory of his career.
- Q: What motivated Gary to start bodybuilding?
- A: Gary’s journey into bodybuilding began as a response to being teased for being skinny. His dedication to transforming his physique and love for the sport fueled his entry into competitions.
- Q: Who are Gary’s role models in bodybuilding?
- A: Arnold Schwarzenegger and Kevin Levrone top Gary’s list of inspirations, each admired for unique qualities that have left a lasting impact on his approach to bodybuilding.
- Q: How does Gary balance his training and where does he train primarily?
- A: Gary trains hard and heavy, primarily at Murdoch University. He also frequents other gyms like Gallery 4, Pure Fitness, and Warehouse.
- Q: What are Gary’s future goals in bodybuilding?
- A: Gary’s immediate goal is to win the Juniors title, and while he remains open about the future, his dedication to the sport suggests more milestones ahead.
