Everybody goes through the ups and downs of motivation. Luckily, YouTube is chock-full of motivational personalities – from the intensely intimidating to the downright hilarious – guaranteed to get your drive back on track, and full-steam ahead. Here are some of our favorites.
His physical presence notwithstanding, The Predator is also a bit of a philosopher when it comes to lifting. Specifically, he preaches the “mind-muscle connection”, which he claims is the number one factor in successful training. In practicing this technique, your mind and muscles synch up to stimulate one another, which can positively affect your body during posing. If your game has hit a plateau, hearing Greene’s words might be just the spot you’re looking for to hit the next level.
No. 7: Andreia Brazier
She’s more ripped than Hulk Hogan’s t-shirts, and she preaches an “eat clean, train dirty” philosophy featuring high protein and a regimented carb structure leading up to competition. The 2013 WBFF World Champion’s YouTube motivational videos look more like a superhero montage, and her no-nonsense approach to training will definitely spark you.
Let’s review Kali Muscle’s resume: bodybuilder, motivational speaker, actor, author, philosopher, ex-con, gang leader…and inspiration. By blazing a trail from humble beginnings to fitness icon, Mr. Muscle’s road has been full of potholes. While we don’t advise the prison workout – which Kali credits with much of his physique – we can certainly advocate listening to him for a good kick in the ass.
No. 5: BroScience
It’s hard to lack energy when you’re laughing hysterically. Enter BroScience – the work of Mike Tornabene (and his alter ego Dom Mazzetti), a self-styled “bro” with a vast love of fitness, and an infectious sense of humor. By lampooning the “bro culture” often associated with monster lifters, Mazzetti (and his nearly 1.5 million subscribers) let you in on the joke, while inspiring you to work out.
Known as “The Gift” and “The Next Big Thing”, Phil Heath became the first rookie to place in the Mr. Olympia top three in more than 15 years. Heath also became the first pro bodybuilder to own and run his own sports nutrition company (Gifted Nutrition) while still actively competing. Still feeling lazy?
No. 3: Cassey Ho
This YouTube sensation’s fitness mantras include “train insane or remain the same” and “train like a beast to look like a beauty”. Her overall approach to a healthy lifestyle and positive body image has made headlines across the world, and her following continues to grow exponentially thanks to her superb motivational energy.
No. 2: Furious Pete
Otherwise known as Peter Czerwinski, this nine-time Guinness World Record holder is a competitive eating juggernaut. As a teenager, he battled anorexia until he was hospitalized. And he credits bodybuilding as his means to recovery. The Polish powerhouse eats enough for two, downing nine balanced meals each day! His mere existence almost dares you to try one-upping him in the gym, or at the table.
No. 1: CT Fletcher
As one of the most outspoken and beloved heavy-hitters on YouTube, CT Fletcher is probably one of the more well-known dudes on this list. And for good reason. He’s an army vet, a second-degree black belt, and a survivor who “did not give up on (his) gift of life.” Coupled with the mouth of a Scorsese first draft, he’s a motivational figure like any other. If you’re in need of a push, remember Fletcher’s credo. He says, “You will no doubt encounter obstacles, but bear in mind…IT’S STILL YO MUTHA F%&^IN’ SET!”
