About Bryan Barth, NPC Amateur Bodybuilder

Bryan lives in Houston, Texas, and is preparing for the 2010 NPC National Bodybuilding Championships. Bryan has been a personal trainer 14 years. He owns his own business and has worked in Houston gyms for most of that time.

He was married for 12 years. His ex-wife is still a good friend, fan, and huge supporter of his career. Or as he would say, “Let's just say she likes to give me her opinion! Lol!”

He does have a special someone in his life. “She's very supportive and motivating. She understands bodybuilding, and what goes into it.”

You can contact Bryan at: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Click HERE to see MD's photo gallery of Bryan Barth or check out his contest history.

Question and Answer with Bryan Barth in Preparation for the 2010 Nationals

AZ: I can look back at your contest history and see you going back and forth between heavy and super heavy. What are you going to be for Nationals and which is a better look for you?

BB: I guess the best way to answer this question is this. Pretty much every guy in the sport, I believe, wants to emulate the past champions. They were big, round, and larger than life. We all wanted to look like them. So, progressively I got bigger and bigger each season, coming into a heavier weight class.

I competed a few times as a heavyweight, and didn't do so well. I got up to 291 pounds one off-season. When I came down, I decided to try the super heavyweight class. I placed 1st at the Ronnie Coleman Classic.

Then, I went to the Jr. USA's, and placed 2nd in the Supers. I thought, ok, well, this must be my class.

So, I took a brief month off, started my diet again, and zeroed in on the 2007 NPC Nationals in Dallas, Texas. I entered the super heavyweights and placed 7th. This was the highest I had placed at a National show.

After reviewing the photos, and hearing Branch telling me to drop the weight and go for the pro card, I decided ok, I can have a more crisp, refined look. So, here we are getting ready for the 2010 Nationals!

I do feel I will look my best around 218lbs as a heavyweight.

AZ: According to my records, you competed at Nationals in 2007, placing 7th in Superheavy. Then, it looks like you took 2008 and 2009 off. Why? Did you have an injury, or you just decided to take some much needed time off?

BB: Actually a couple things happened in the years between the 07 Nationals and now.

In May of 2008, I suffered a major pec tear during a chest workout. I had surgery to repair the injury.

I was also going through a divorce at the time.

I had a few life-changing events happening all at one time. So, I took it all in stride, started my rehabilitation, and went through my divorce; all the while staying on a pretty regimented diet, and training consistently.

I never really lost the drive, or desire to compete. I feel that bodybuilding and competing is what has always helped me through the toughest times in my life.

AZ: You competed at the Arnold Amateur in 2010. What was that experience like? Were you pleased with your showing? Would you recommend someone doing that show?

BB: Oh man, wow! Good question.

That was my comeback show. It was extremely exciting to be on the same stage as the greatest bodybuilders of the past, and current time. It was like being a kid in a candy store. One of the best experiences I've had in my competitive career.

I would have been pleased with my showing win, lose, or draw. I had made it through the all the setbacks, and was back on stage.

I would definitely recommend the show, but make no mistake; the guys that competed in that show are some of the best in the world, as far as the amateur ranks are concerned. I would definitely have to warn anyone that if you're going to compete at the Arnold Amateur, you better bring it!

AZ: Obviously, being Nationals, the line-up is pretty stacked. Have you targeted someone as being your biggest competition, or are you competing against yourself every time?

BB: Funny you should ask that. I usually always try to compete against myself. I've never been one target any competitors.

I do use them as motivation, knowing that they're out there working just as hard as me. So, when I feel lazy, or want to cheat on my diet, I always think about other top guys working hard, not cheating on their diet, and staying on track.

Really, what you're trying to do as a competitor, is the best that you can be every time out.

AZ: I have to ask, because people always want to know: are you working with a guru? Why or why not?

BB: I have been working with George Farah since November of 2009. George and I work very well together. He has been instrumental in my progression; I feel that he has brought my physique to a level I never thought I would see. He truly is amazing, and one of the best I've ever worked with.

I do have to say he is very motivational. He can see the potential in your physique and knows how to get the most out of it.

AZ: Lastly, what do you want MD Readers to know about you?

BB: Let's see. What do I want MD the readers to know about me?

I'm a regular guy, just like they are, when I'm not competing. I'm a stand-up guy, and a competitor through and through.

AZ: Is there anybody you would like to thank?

BB: I'd like to thank a few people for making this all possible.

George Farah, you are the man!! I couldn't have looked this good without you, and we’re just getting started.

Johnny West, one of my best friends, mentor, and original trainer.

Tina Chandler, Branch Warren, and Angela Pena for supporting me, and being there for me through the toughest of times the last few years.

I would also like to thank the Texas and NPC for putting up with me, Lee Thompson, especially! I need a good dose of reality sometimes. Thanks for all your advice, and guidance!

And thanks MD for all your support!