ABOVE PHOTO: Personal trainer and nutrition expert Jerome Opokuh
By Danaé Reid
Jerome Opokuh’s fitness journey began in middle school as a result of having trouble getting up in the morning for school. And although initially hesitant to the idea of waking up to work out, this method his mother used to get him out of bed has had completely shaped his entire life… Not only is Opokuh an avid gym member, but he also creates affordable weight loss plans, targeted diet plans, and is now coming out with his own line of supplements for those looking to make gains in a healthy way.
Opokuh spoke to me about his love of fitness and how it’s influenced his life.
DR: The first thing a person would notice when they head to your Instagram is that you’re extremely fit, and if they’re curious like me, and decided to scroll further down, they’d see your personal transformation photos which are INSANE! Tell us a little bit about your fitness journey and how you went from “dud to stud.”
JO: Growing up, I always had trouble waking up in the morning for high school.… My mother was consistently going to the gym every morning at 6 a.m., and one day the idea of me working out with her came to mind to help.… At the time, I thought it was the worst idea, but eventually the gym would become my life. I started seeing small results, and for me, the feeling of your hard work paying off is unmatched. By junior and /senior year, I packed on a good amount of muscle and began getting a lot of attention. As a scrawny, skinny kid I never received that much love from my peers, so this new attention was welcomed. I honestly haven’t looked back since!
DR: You’re releasing a line of products that will help people gain or lose weight, correct? What all goes into making your own protein shakes and stuff like that? I can only imagine how difficult the science behind that is. Also, what prompted the decision to start your own line of products?
JO: Yes! I’m releasing a line that was created to give the consumer any/all of the benefits they need to win on their fitness journey. I’m working with one of the best manufacturers in the industry, who strongly believe in holistic health like myself. I’ve found that it’s all too common for supplement companies to neglect the safety and health of their customers, so I want to make sure that my brand doesn’t fall into that category. Knowing this, I decided to take matters into my own hands and create my very own products that will both promote health and wellness respectfully. All products are approved by the FDA as well.
DR: You’ve been training others like yourself for a while and helping them get in shape… How has your life specifically changed since you started focusing on building muscle and maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle?
JO: My life changed dramatically, but for the better mentally and physically. Not only did I build the physique I dreamt of, but I also attained mental toughness, discipline, and also charisma… It’s a great feeling having the ability to motivate others to get healthy and fit. One of my biggest goals now is to help as many people transform the same way I did both mentally and physically.
DR: I see on your website that you pretty much guarantee that a client will see results by working with you, so it seems that you’re pretty confident in your business! That being said, what foolproof tips would you give someone who may be just starting out on their fitness journey and don’t know where to start?
JO: Stay committed if you are entering the fitness life. This isn’t something you can just hop into for a little and drop. Making gains is a process that involves a lot of your focus and discipline. Another thing people don’t realize is that your body should be your biggest asset. Invest in your body because we were only given one.
If your you’re reading this and you’re struggling on your journey, please feel free to contact me @rometxf on Instagram/Twitter.
DR: Your workout plans are really affordable compared to other trainers… Why is that?
JO: I’m not trying to sell plans to make a lot of money. I care more about making a meaningful impact in everyone’s lives. I have knowledge and years of experience to share with the masses so they too can achieve their dream aesthetic.
DR: What are the biggest mistakes you notice people making when trying to tackle their fitness goals?
JO: The biggest mistake I see people make is the lack of consistency and accountability. You have to take control of your own life — there’s only so much a trainer can do. Positive self- talk can go a very long way and I teach my clients just that.
DR: Lastly, leave us with a way to reach out to you in case anyone is interested in acquiring your services.
JO: I can be reached on both Twitter or Instagram at: @rometxf. I customize diet and workout regimens so easy to follow. The goal is to change thousands of lives and introduce them to the world of holistic health.
Please consult your primary care physician before embarking upon any weight loss or exercise program.
Disclaimer: The advice offered in this column is intended for informational/entertainment purposes only. Use of this column not intended to replace or substitute for any professional, financial, medical, legal, or other professional advice. If you have specific concerns or a situation in which you require professional, psychological or medical help, you should consult with an appropriately trained and qualified specialist. This column, its author, the Philadelphia Sunday SUN newspaper and publisher are not responsible for the outcome or results of following any advice in any given situation. You, and only you, are completely responsible for your actions.
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