Fitness Model Ryan Johnson Talks With Simplyshredded.com

How did you get started with bodybuilding?

My dad was a professional bodybuilder back in the 70’s and he was Mr. NH in 1977. He was the one that paved the way for me.

Where does your motivation come from?

My motivation comes from seeing other bodybuilders and athletes accomplish great feats in their lives. I personally have been a big motivator to myself being that I prefer to workout by myself because I hate losing my concentration while i workout.

What is your training philosophy?

Philosophy to training is knowing your own body. Everyone is different in their own way. Whats good for my body might be horrible for the next person. The only way to figure this out is to try many different workout strategies.

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

Squats: Because you are working your entire lower half of your body. You hit your quads and glutes especially hard. If you build your foundation your house will stand strong.
Pullups: Its one of the most basic exercises and effective. It builds a strong wide back, as well as building strong tight biceps.
Chest Press (Dumbells): Great for building bulk and cuts depending on the weight and reps. The stabilization muscles are being utilized alot in this exercise making the chest, shoulders, triceps, and core work hard.

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

I use both forms of cardio and HIIT. Nothing can compare to super-setting and tri-setting your workouts… NOTHING!!! It burns tons of calories and shreds your muscles up.

What is your philosophy on nutrition?

My nutrition is my #1 key to a lean body. I eat 20% carbs, 30% fat, and 50% protein in my daily intake. This gives me the necessary energy and muscle building foods to burn fat and build muscle throughout the day.

What are your favorite meals and foods?

Hands down my favorite meal is grilled chicken, onions and peppers, with brown rice and a little bit of low sodium soy sauce.

Favorite cheat food?

Cheat foods??!!.. who eats those??!!.. jk!. Chips and salsa/gaucolmole/cheese dip. Its horrible for you but they taste sooooooo good. YUMMY!!!

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

Supplements that I use are not much. I take cytogainer when i want to bulk and EAS myoplex when I cut up. I do consistently take superpump during my workouts to give me a great boost of energy to keep the intensity up.