When I first began competing in bodybuilding back in 2004, I thought I knew a lot.

For my first few contests, I was able to tough it out.

Extreme will power and determination.

But, as you may or may not know, you cannot form a lifestyle out of pure willpower.

Once it really clicked with me that it's all mental, it became so much easier to life fully in my fitness and fasting focused lifestyle.

Yes, there is discipline day in and day out, but I enjoy what I am doing.

I need to be ready at any moment to take care of my family.

Being a Ripped Dad is about being ready to: save your own life, save someone else's life or being able to kick someone's a** when needed.

It all starts in the mind.