From the time that local resident Rob Robson was 17 years old, he has practically lived in the weight room.
As a result, the now 45-year-old bodybuilder sports an incredibly well defined physique that would make men half his age jealous.
A decorated powerlifter and bodybuilder, Robson has spent the past two and a half months preparing for the Rocky Mountain Natural Championships.
Scheduled for April 13 in Broomfield, the Rocky Mountain will host some of the world’s top bodybuilders for what promises to be premier event.
On the eve of another big competition, Robson is cherishing the opportunity to again walk across a stage, showcasing an impressive body that has been years in the making.
A career defined by success
Now 28 years into his weightlifting career, Robson has enjoyed no shortage of success in powerlifting and bodybuilding events.
After finishing fifth in teenage division of the Rocky Mountain in 1987, Robson turned his attention to powerlifting, eventually finishing first in his division at the American Powerlifting Championships (2006) and the National Powerlifting Championships (2007).
Seeking a new challenge, Robson turned his attention to bodybuilding, finishing third in the amateur division of the Mr. America (2010) and fourth in the amateur division of the Mr. Universe (2011).
Injuries derail career
Primed to continue his climb up the competitive bodybuilding rankings, Robson was beset by injury.
First, a broken rib, which resulted from a car accident, put Robson’s career on hold. Then, a torn triceps muscle put a damper on the talented athlete’s training. Through the adversity however, Robson’s resolve to return to bodybuilding never waned.
“I wasn’t going to let (injuries) stop me,” said Robson. “As soon as my cast came off, I started working out. The older I get, the longer (recovery) takes, but I think that (recovery) is all in the mind.”
Preparing to return
Finally healthy, Robson began his quest to compete in the Rocky Mountain.
To prepare for what he admits might be his final competition, Robson has been training tirelessly during the last two and a half months, often spending upwards of five hours a day in the gym six days every week.
Of those five hours, two hours are generally dedicated to weightlifting while three hours are spent focusing on cardio.
“A lot of people say that you don’t need much cardio,” said Robson. “If you want to get really low body fat like you have to for these contests, you have to do it.”
In addition to his intense training, Robson has altered his diet to include little more than broccoli, fish, chicken and green beans.
While for most people, the repetitive diet would quickly become unappealing, Robson pointed out that the simple diet suits him.
“For me, it’s easier because I know what I’m having,” said Robson. “I can eat the same thing day in and day out.”
Primed for success
With the Rocky Mountain fast approaching, Robson is confident that his hard work will result in a high placing in the Open Division and the Master’s Division.
“I plan on winning, and I think I will,” said Robson.
Asked what keeps him going at an age when most muscle men are long retired, Robson explained that ultimately, he knows no other way.
“It’s a deep down love for it,” Robson said. “I’ve been doing it for so long. It’s my calling, I guess.”
And with that, the weightlifter returned to the gym to prepare, hoping that a climb to the top of a podium occurs in the near future.