Mass Monster Jared Hess Talks With Simplyshredded.com

How did you get started with bodybuilding?

I was a high level Powerlifting competitor from 1997 to 2003. In 2003 and 2004 I started to shift my focus to Bodybuilding. I was big and strong, but appeared big and out of shape if that makes sense. I was only concerned about how much weight I lifted, not how I looked doing it.

Front Lat Spread - November 2003 — November 2003

I decided that I no longer just wanted to tell people I worked out all the time, I wanted them to know it by just looking at me.

And that’s when the transition went from Powerlifter, to Powerbuilder, and finally to a Bodybuilder.

Where does your motivation come from?

My motivation comes from within. I graduated High School in 1996 at 132 lbs of skin and bones. I started my Freshman year of college and said I’m going to change myself for the better. I started lifting weights and I wanted to bench 200 lbs. I benched that within the first 6 months of lifting and then said if I ever bench 400 lbs. I will be happy. I did that by 2000 and from then on I’ve just been setting the bar higher and higher. I will never be happy with myself no matter what I accomplish (although I am proud) so that is where the inner drive and the motivation comes from. To never be that 132 lb. kid again.

What is your training philosophy?

My training philosophy is pretty simple. Always get the reps for as many sets as you have designated for that particular program. Meaning I never go in with the “Let’s just see how many I can do” mentality. If that particular training program calls for 3 sets of 10 reps, I will get 3 sets of 10 reps. And I will do it as hard and as heavy as possible. If I don’t get them (say I only get 8 on the last set) I will do that weight each week until I get it. Sometimes this is banging your head against the wall (failing week in and week out) but eventually you move past it. And you are constantly setting PR’s.

If you have to pick only 3 exercises, what would they be and why?

Bench
Squats
Yates (Barbell Rows)

These three exercises alone will add the most thickness and size. I truly believe that and have used them in every single program I have done for the past 10 years.

When trying to cut down do you prefer to use HIIT or just normal cardio?

I prefer normal cardio. Start out at 15 minutes per session, bump it to 20 minutes, then to 30 minutes and finally before a show I could take it up to 45 minutes to 60 minutes per session. Moderate to heavy intensity, burning well over 500+ calories per session.

What is your philosophy on nutrition?

One or two cheat meals per week and that is it. Clean the rest of the time. What I like to do is reserve either Friday evening or Saturday evening to have dinner out with my family. I use that as my “cheat meal” for the week. Not a cheat DAY, a cheat MEAL. This has worked very well for me over the years. The rest of the time I usually eat just about the same thing every day at the exact same time. This allows me to know exactly what I am taking in on a daily basis and also allows me to cook in bulk and store in Tupperware containers for quick and easy access.

What are your favorite meals and foods?

My favorite meal is probably a good steak and potatoes. I am also a big fan of eggs and eat them just about every way possible. I usually consume 12-18 eggs per day, consisting of mostly just egg whites. I like to scramble, hard boil, and make omelets with eggs. It’s a very versatile food and that’s why I really enjoy it.

Favorite cheat food?

Taco Bell. This isn’t even a question. By far my favorite place to eat.

What supplements do you use that give you great results? How do you use them?

I’m a big believer in Weight Gainers, BCAA’s and Test Boosters. I have used each and every one for years now and always get great results with them. I know some people are scared of Gainers but if used correctly (as MRP, and Post Workout) they can really help pack on size. I love BCAA’s for the growth and recovery aspect (and they taste great too!) and Test Boosters just because I like to walk the line of natural vs unnatural and Test Boosters can take you to the limit without having you cross that line.