Today we’d like to introduce you to Anibal Lopez.
Hi Anibal, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
## My Journey into Bodybuilding
Getting involved in bodybuilding has been one of the most fulfilling decisions of my life. I began my weight training journey at the age of twelve. Unfortunately, my parents were unable to afford exercise equipment or a gym membership, nor did they possess any experience in weight training. However, I managed to acquire a barbell, a set of dumbbells, and some weight plates. A carpenter friend crafted a wooden bench for me, and in a shared room with my two brothers, I embarked on my exercise routine, learning from every magazine I could find.
From an early age, I was drawn to sports magazines, especially those centered around strength. It felt like fate was guiding me toward becoming a bodybuilder.
I maintained my workouts while also participating in various sports, such as boxing, gymnastics, baseball, and wrestling. My performance in these activities greatly improved thanks to the strength and flexibility I gained from weight training. My body quickly adapted to strength exercises, fueling my motivation to commit even more to my training. Consistency played a vital role in my journey; once it was time to work out, only an emergency could hinder me. This focused mentality has positively influenced my decision-making at work, my family life, and my spiritual path.
In 1965, I entered my first novice bodybuilding competition, Mr. Wagner, held at the Wagner Youth Center in Manhattan, NY. Winning the overall title marked the inception of my bodybuilding career. Since then, I have earned numerous titles, including Mr. New York City and Mr. New York State, and was honored as the Outstanding Bodybuilder of the Year.
In 1978, I made the pivotal decision to turn professional and secured the WBBG Pro-Mr. America title at Lincoln Center in New York City, where I also received accolades for Best Arms, Best Legs, and Best Abdominals. Winning the Pro Mr. America title qualified me for the NABBA Mr. Universe contest in London, where I achieved third place in my division—another remarkable milestone in my bodybuilding journey. To my surprise, in 2013, I was inducted into the National Fitness Hall of Fame.
These achievements opened doors for travel and performances, including posing exhibitions and seminars, where I could motivate others to prioritize their health and physical appearance. Supported by my fans and followers, I embraced the role of a personal trainer, a position I have cherished for the past fifteen years. There is no greater joy than witnessing my clients attain their fitness goals.
I have documented my journey in a book titled *My World of Bodybuilding*, where you will find my biography, exercise routines for male and female beginner and advanced athletes, and tailored diets to meet your needs.
I must express my heartfelt gratitude to God, in whom I place my trust, for making all my accomplishments possible. I am especially thankful for my parents, from whom I inherited the right genes to excel in bodybuilding, and I was reminded that with God, anything is achievable. For more about me, visit my website, https://aniballopez.com/
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
My main obstacle was being 5’6″ and competing against other bodybuilders larger in size than me.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
. I am a personal trainer dedicated to helping individuals achieve their fitness aspirations. Additionally, I prepare competitors for their events by crafting specialized routines tailored to their specific sports. I take pride in being recognized as a professional bodybuilder who has built my physique without the use of steroids. I’m honored to have won the Pro-America title and to have been inducted into the National Fitness Hall of Fame. Not bad for a guy who comes from a very poor family with limited resources.
Contact Info:
- Email: anibal@aniballopez.com
Image Credits
Photos by Denie Walter
