Philemon Effiong James

Alias: Brainy

Age: 22

Gym base: Metroflex gym, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State

Height: 5ft 6 inches

Max. weight: 70kg

Competitions attended: None

In his words: ‘‘I started bodybuilding when I was 18 (in 2019) after graduating from secondary school. Initially, I saw it as a means of putting on flesh to my skinny body. As someone with an 'ectomorph' body type, I always struggled at the beginning to lift what I now see as light weights today. I had no coach or no partner-I trained all alone. But my dream was to build an outstanding (athletic) body and I never gave up. I started with cement-moulded dumbbells and barbell at the backyard of our apartment. As a lone fitness enthusiast, I had to follow guidance provided by workout apps and models. Simeon Panda has always been my source of inspiration. My goal is to someday participate in popular bodybuilding contests.’’

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