At the age of 23, Joseph Galea is about to compete for the title of champion, light-weight class, for the International Federation of Body Building. The competition will take place at the University of Malta, Sir Temi Zammit Hall, on 7 October.

Joseph, who weighs 80kgs says: “The eight weeks leading up to a competition at this level are particularly hard. I have to keep to a very strict routine with regard to training but also to my life style, hours of rest and particularly my diet.” Joseph trains six times a week, spending 45 minutes on the cardio machines and 45 minutes training with weights.

“But it is an all day long commitment when, both physically and psychologically, I have to concentrate on reaching the best form in time for the competition. I eat six times daily and my first meal consists of oatmeal and egg whites. The other five meals consist mainly of white rice, chicken and broccoli dressed with olive oil. I am allowed to eat nuts and can only drink water. Even fruit is forbidden; at most I am allowed one grapefruit a day!”

Training has made Joseph psychologically strong. “I am meticulous in all that I do, in fact I go all out,” he says. “I need an active life. I would never have been able to be a bank clerk. I work as a full time instructor at Cynergi, in St Julian’s and thoroughly enjoy my job as it fits my life-style and I know I am good at it.”

Joe declares that he has his girlfriend’s full support. “She understands that there is no alcohol for me at the weekends, no fancy food either. In normal months, I do relax a little, but in the weeks leading up to a competition, I just have to meet my body’s demands in order to reach the qualities that help achieve the coveted title – Size, definition, proportion, symmetry and overall balance.

All the team and members of Cynergi are supporting Joseph and wish him all the luck he so truly deserves.