Michael vs his lockdown bod: the fight for fitness

If there’s a man known for sending endless positivity out into the world, it’s boxing expert Michael Olajide Jr. So when the champ admitted that he’d lapsed into “Pandemic bod”, we sat up and took notice. If this man of perpetual motion had lost momentum, what did it mean for the rest of us?

The pressure, isolation and physical restriction of the pandemic saw many of us fall out of our health and fitness routines. But this battle is not confined to moments of global crisis. Work stress, loss of motivation, a packed schedule, a reliance on fast food deliveries – it can happen any time, and leave us feeling disappointed because our bodies have changed or our clothes don’t fit.

The pandemic amplified existing body image issues for many men, who are now struggling to talk openly about it. For Michael, revealing he was out of shape was a big deal, because his career as a trainer is built on his body: “It’s natural for people to doubt advice that you give, but don’t practice yourself,” he says.

But we also know he is capable of shifting gears – he did it after his eye injury in the boxing ring – so can never truly be counted out of the fight.

We asked Michael to share his experience in trying to bounce back, as well as his advice on how you can make your own mental or physical comeback. What he came back with is advice that everyone – no matter where your mind or body is at right now – can learn from.

Are we beating ourselves up if we’re too focused on getting our “old body” back?
Being a trainer, I was fortunate to maintain my level of conditioning. I realize it’s so much easier being in shape when that is what you’re paid to do. That’s why I admire people who are raising their children, working a job and still working to be in great shape. Those are the special people.

Unless your employment requires you to have 3% body fat, it is unrealistic to go there. And even more unrealistic to stay there. Not even the greatest athletes in the world – Olympic sprinters, triathletes or pro boxers – maintain that level of conditioning and body 365 days a year. So we should all feel okay taking our foot off the gas every once in a while.

If our bodies follow the patterns we set, how did YOU get back to a more positive pattern?
I am getting back to a healthy pattern because everything is becoming “normalized” again. But I did take the time for myself. I challenged myself to learn new jump rope maneuvers, new boxing combinations, new sculpting maneuvers. This is helping me get back into peak condition. The benefit is in the effort. Fortunately, good habits are formed the same way as bad habits. The more you repeat them the stronger they become.

What are your tips for people to set (and repeat) their own successful pattern?
You need to put yourself at the front of the line. Know your self worth. Know that working out will make you a better person. When you take care of yourself you're so much better for your loved ones. But if you don’t work yourself into the equation, you will feel like you're drowning and won’t have the confidence or emotional wherewithal to help anyone else. So basically, invest in yourself and everyone around you profits.

It’s not just our bodies that have changed over the past couple of years, the world has, too. What should we focus on to come back stronger?
There are so many options in working out. But I feel the best workout is when you leave the machines behind and teach your body how to move. Treadmills and stationary bikes can be great, but step outside and the ground doesn’t move for you. The purpose of a workout shouldn’t always be about your body being slim or getting ripped. Your body is the vehicle that’s going to carry you through life so you need balance.

I really feel Chris and Centr workouts hit the nail on the head. It’s balanced. It’s motivational. It’s crazy effective and it’s fun. Everything that the human body needs can be found within this app. I honestly really enjoy being a part of all of this. The common thread with all the trainers on this program is we all love people. That energy comes through in the workouts and nutrition programs for the members. I love it!

That’s it, you’ve inspired us. We’re going to fight this new reality!
You can call it fighting for fitness, or fighting to make your life better. Either way it’s the same thing. If you can put your heart and very soul into it, you will ALWAYS come out winning.