My first trip to the Olympia is what truly peaked my interest, although I did not think it was a realistic goal for me to compete. That was the first year of the Muscle & Fitness Model Search, and I remember seeing Steve Cook win, and wishing that I would have tried it. Being at an actual competition really made me want to be a part of it, and not just there as a spectator. For the next two years I attended seminars and printed out applications without taking that next step. Finally, at the age of 36 with 4 weeks until the 2012 Olympia, I said “why not.” I figured that worse case scenario, I would walk away with the experience of being on stage with with Olympia sign in the background. Turned out to be one of the best decisions that I have ever made! The dedication that it takes to step on stage really forces you to improve every aspect of your life. It has been a great experience.Have you competed before the recent MM NPC VA Classic? If so, where and when?
Prior to the Max Muscle, I competed in the 2012 Muscle & Fitness Model Search at the Olympia in September, the 2012 Shawn Ray Grand Prix in October, & the 2013 Baltimore Gladiator Classic in March. All three were great experiences, but I have to say that stepping on stage for the first time and winning at the Olympia was an unforgettable experience.Are you going to compete again? Have you already decided on a show or shows?
I will be competing in the Junior USAs on May 18th in South Carolina. I have not thought about any competitions beyond that one. I am not sure what my plans will be afterwards, but I know that in some way health, fitness, and bodybuilding will remain a part of my life.
What’s your favorite body part to train? Least favorite?
My favorite body part to train is back. I have always wanted to be as balanced as possible so that is an area that I like to focus on. Plus, as they say, competitions are won from the back. I think my least favorite would be abs.
Do you have a consistent playlist for when you’re working out?
I like a variety of music, but when I am really focused I put together a playlist that consists of heavy metal & rap. Very normal for me to follow up a Lil Wayne song with some Metallica.
Favorite cheat meal?
I love pizza. So far I have followed up every competition with a large pizza. I eat every single slice by myself.
Do you have a strong support network for your training and nutrition planning?
So far I have done my training plan and designed my diet myself. However, I do have a tremendous support network of friends & family. Can’t say enough about my wife, Cristina. She does everything from cooking meals and spotting me at the gym to helping at posing practice, to name a few things. She even went a step further and worked a booth at the Max Muscle! I am very fortunate to have a partner that has supported me as much as she has. I am also a member of Team Granite, and the backstage support at my last few shows by Janet Lynn West and the rest of the team has been great. Lastly, and actually one of the biggest surprises for me, is the support system that exists between fellow competitors. I have met so many competitors over the past few months and the camaraderie that exists is truly unbelievable when you think about the fact that you are all working towards the same goal.
What do you do for a living? How does your training and nutrition work around that?
I work in finance at a healthcare company. Fortunately, my gym is across the street from my job, so it is easy fairly easy to work my training in. Having a gym at home helps as well, because in addition to my job, I have four daughters at home, and I want to make sure that they I am around for them. My job also makes it easy for me to follow my diet.
How can people find you?
I am on facebook (www.facebook.com/duane.brickhouse), bodyspace (Dbrick50), & Instagram (@dbrick11). Also coming soon www.duanebrickhouse.com!