Matt was really into bodybuilding and competed in the student championships, but discovered that focusing so much on what his body looked like wasn't the healthiest thing. We caught up with him and asked him a bunch of questions to find out what makes him tick.
"As a kid, I always had a passion for health and fitness. I played rugby to a high level and took part in any sport I could. I decided that turning my passion into a career would be a great idea so I’m currently studying for a degree in Sport & Exercise Science. For a while, I was really into bodybuilding even competing in the student physique championships. But since then my path changed. The stress of focusing so much on what my body looked like got to me in a way I didn’t think was genuinely healthy. I found meditation helped and also made me realise that health isn't just about lifting weights and how you look, it's really mostly about you feel inside. Ensuring your social, mental and physical health are all in synch is my primary focus these days and I feel much better for it. My hope is that once I graduate, I’ll have a career helping and inspiring others to lead fuller lives too. When it comes to nutrition, I know there aren’t enough young people putting the correct things into their bodies. Balance is key but getting good nutrition into your body makes a huge difference. My parting message - next time you look in the mirror say something positive about yourself. There’s beauty in all of us.” - Matt
Favourite Innermost products?
The Health Protein. A vegan source of protein that contains Japanese medicinal mushrooms and dark berries. The Detox Booster paired with The Health Protein makes for an amazing nourish and detox. Being a student, I need all the superfoods and antioxidants I can get!
What's your hustle?
Inspiring others to make a change in their life. Showing people that health isn't just physical, but it's mental and social too.
What do you do to maintain a healthy lifestyle?
Try to balance life as much as possible. To stay mentally strong, I meditate each morning and work on mindfulness daily. I put time aside to stay physically fit, and spend time with my friends and family when I can. I also enjoy eating good healthy food but am known to indulge from time to time!
What does #liveinnermost mean to you?
Getting down to the core of true health. Focusing on what's good for you and delivering it in it's purest form. Healthy, clean and simple.
Usual breakfast?
A smoothie containing almond milk, strawberries, banana, spinach, vanilla whey protein. And then a granola bar when I'm rushing out the door!
Biggest health vice?
Eating too many cookies. Frankly, I'm cookie obsessed and will eat a pack in minutes without realising.
Your last workout?
It was leg day today. I started with Squats (5 sets of 5 reps). Then went onto a circuit with sled pushes, split squats and medicine ball walks repeated three times. I finished up with leg presses until failure. I was hobbling around by the end.
What's on your bucket list?
Travelling as much as possible, creating a successful business and finding the worlds best cookie!
Favourite inspirational quote/words?
“Next time you look in the mirror say something positive instead of negative. I always get confused when people say to anyone else “you love yourself” as an insult. Is it better to hate ourselves? That sure is a depressing attitude to have.” - Rob Lipsett.
Where do you see yourself in 3 years? Be bold!
I see myself well on my way to building a name for myself in the fitness industry. A strong client base, with a larger social media following, teaching as many people as possible how to be truly healthy.
You can find Matt on Instagram (@pearsonfit_), Youtube (Pearson Fit) and Twitter (@pearsonfit).
