Weekly Spotlight: Oscar Lin

The bodybuilding culture in Taiwan is not very noticeable. However, it isn’t uncommon. Bodybuilding events and contests have taken place in various cities around the island. I was given the opportunity to catch up with Oscar Lin, a 23-year-old bodybuilder (and avid Marvel fan) born and raised in Taichung. Oscar has been bodybuilding for several years now. He can currently deadlift nearly 220 kg. He also works as a math teacher at a local high school and enjoys grabbing McDonald’s on his cheat days. Eventually, Oscar wants to start vlogging on his own YouTube channel in the spirit of Steven Cao.

It was 9 a.m. on a rainy Tuesday morning. Driving through the streets of Taichung, I stifled a yawn. By the time I made my way into the gym, Oscar was already deep into his workout with his training partner. Weighing about 175 pounds at 5”8, Oscar’s muscular frame filled out his Marvel tank top. He set his equipment down so he could introduce himself. Later, he took some time to answer some of my questions.

How long have you been a bodybuilder?

I’ve been progressively training since the sophomore year of college. During my senior year, I competed my first show in. It was a competition for college students. I got third place in the category of men under 75 kg and that’s how it all began.

Why do you enjoy this lifestyle?

I like to challenge myself. Seeing those changes and gains on my body is quite satisfying.

What inspired you to start this lifestyle?

I was too skinny to find any suitable outfit. Whenever I would try to find new clothes, they just wouldn’t fit right on me. Since then, I made up my mind to get stronger. It just really grew from there. Now, getting stronger is a really big part of my life!

What keeps you motivated?

I watch many YouTubers who often post fitness videos that motivates me. Steven Cao is my favourite YouTuber and also my goal.

Who helps motivate you in your personal life?

I would say it's my mom. She has always been strict on me but taught me a lot in life. She taught me if you wanna do something, you should do it with all you've got and never give up too easily. This made me who I am today.

Do you ever wake up in the morning and just not want to go to the gym? How do you fight that feeling?

Sometimes I do, but I would take a rest day only if all my muscles were sore as hell. When this becomes part of your life, you don't have to fight anything to get it done because it's already being a part of you. It’s best to start building up healthy habits as soon as possible! And no excuses!

Do you do this professionally or just for fun?

It’s a lot fun to me of course, but one day I’ll get my pro card and maybe compete in the Olympics! 

Do you travel much?

No. I love Taiwan.

What does your family think of your bodybuilding?

At first, they were against it.But after seeing those changes on me, they supported me and my mom even cooked for me.

What are the changes that bodybuilding has done to your life?

There were a couple difference noticeable changes.

Foods: I used to eat snacks and candy, but now I only eat foods that are nutritious and natural.

Body: You can see in the picture below.

How would you describe the feeling that working out brings to you?

It’s exciting. I quite enjoy having sore muscles!

What’s your diet?

All meals includes meat, veggies, carbs, and eggs. The meat is either chicken breast, beef, or salmon. Carbs can be brown rice, sweet potato, or rice. Veggies are usually broccoli.

How often do you work out?

5-6 times a week,1-2 hours per day.

Do you have any advice?

You can start being healthy by cutting down sugar intake such as drinks, desserts, etc. If you don't know where to start or what to do, you could start with having a good habit of doing easy exercises. Simple things like jogging or doing push ups are a good way to get started building healthy habits. Just don’t be afraid to get started.

Laurrel Allison is a writer and editor who hates avocados and can’t do yoga. From the States though she may be, she prefers giving in to wanderlust beyond her home country.

Laurrel is a content creator for various online publications. She is known to enjoy taking a cuppa, playing video games, as well as watching You’re the Worst.
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