NORDIC PROFILE: MARKUS HEINÄNEN

The profile we are about to meet recently won the Finnish Nationals plus the overall in bodybuilding. Markus is one of the more promising talents Finland have produced in the later years. He is 100 % dedicated to the sport and aims to become a IFBB pro in a few years.

Let’s welcome NORDIC PROFILE: Markus Heinänen

Country: Finland

City: Helsinki

Age: 33

Height: 167c m / 5.5 ft

Weight: on: 85-86kg / 187 lbs Off: 100-110kg / 220 / 240 lbs

RM: Markus would you like to explain why you got involved in bodybuilding and later competing?

MH: The first time I trained in a gym I followed a freind but at that time I didn’t really get bitten by the bug – but later on when going through my duties in Finnish army in 2001 I kind of got a little bored and then hit the gym. My little brother designed a training program for me at that time since he had been going to gym for a while already. I gained weight nearly 20kg in 1 year and all the gains kept me motivated. In 2003 I started my first diet for a competition because my friends encouraged me to compete. Now I just keep wanting more muscle and drier look…

RM: How would you describe your training style?

MH: My training style was weight based for a long time. The bigger the weights the muscles-style. It has become more versatile nowdays. Big weights are there in the off-season every third or fourth training cycle but mostly my training is now based on the feeling in the muscle working with the maximum tension in the trained muscle. Making every movement extremely hard to yourself. I have got really good results this way and can’t see why I would never leave this style behind.

RM: How far are you reaching in your career as a bodybuilder?

MH: I have set my aim to compete as a pro at 212 weight class with the biggest “mid-sized” bodybuilders in the world. I still need more mass especially to my outer quads, upper back and lats and chest. Now my ephasis is at those “lacking” muscles so we have to wait and see how long will it take to build even more balanced physique.

RM: In your opinion, what are the most important factors to become a great bodybuilder?

MH: Strength of will, absolutely. I think no other sport needs so much discipline and 24 hour control on your diet.

RM: Who is you favorite bodybuilder in the Nordic countries? In addition Globally?

MH: Marko Savolainen of course. However if I have to pick someone who is still competing then it has to be Ahmad Ahmad.

RM: Do you have any hobbies outside of training?

MH: I might play with our dogs or play guitar a bit when I have some spare time.

RM: From your perspective: what is the public opinion about bodybuilders in Finland?

MH: Most of people don’t know how much dedication it needs to get into that shape. In my opinion people have quite a neutral attitude towards bodybuilders in general nonetheless. Of course some look down on bodybuilders and some couldn’t care less. However, I don’t think that Public opinion matters anyway but what does, is how your friends and people around think about you in general, not that much as a bodybuilder.

RM: Which competition was the most important one for you and why?

MH: 2014 Finn
ish Championships when I finally won my weight class, overall title and most muscular trophy. Since I have placed 2nd so many times before this was a relieving experience.

RM: When are you planning to compete again?

MH: In nordic championchips 1.11.2014. After that I will take 1 week rest and start a 16 week diet for Arnold Amateur USA which is held 7-8.3.2015 in Columbus, Ohio.

RM: In the round up, is it anything you might want to add or someone you would like to thank, please feel free to do so

MH: I would like to thank Sport Life Nutrition for support and superb supplements. Special thanks to my coach Tommi Heinonen who has helped me to get into winning shape and being the best friend as well. Thanks to my wife Mia Heinänen for standing beside me through all the hard times and my little brother Mika for all the help. Huge thanks to all the fans out there, you are great! If you want to know what I am up to and how am I doing please take a look at my FB profile at bodybuilder.markus.heinanen.