One of India’s top physique athletes, Junaid Kaliwala, has won yet another major title on the international stage, after successfully lifting the NPC Eastern USA physique trophy this week. This is a follow-up to his Kemper Classic silver medal, earlier this year. The 27-year old defeated athletes from as many as 15 different countries to win the coveted title.
Speaking exclusively to Sportskeeda, he said, “If I have to sum up how I feel in one word, It feels incredible! Standing here miles away from my country and representing it at the prestigious stage of NPC is indeed a wonderful and a proud feeling. There is a lot to learn and the scope of growth is indeed high here. I would be waiting to join the league very soon.”
Now being coached under former professional Dave Palumbo, Junaid has made some strict changes to his diet and regime. He added, “ It's a very serious business in USA and my coach Dave Palumbo has helped me to evolve into what I am today. There were a lot of changes in my diet and the workout pattern. Everything has been being measured and proportionately given according to my body type and adaptation. We have been working very closely and the result is in front of everyone.. Moreover, my posing coach Kenny Wallach has also worked really hard on my posing routine.“
Junaid also received compliments from veteran body-builder and actor Arnold Schwarzenegger. A former winner of Sheru Classic, the Mumbaikar is now solely focussing on competitions in the US. He added, “I shall keep representing my country at the international stages across the globe. As of now, I am heading towards the next NPC show before leaving for India; where I have a few expos and shows lined up.“
He was the first Indian to participate at the Arnold Schwarzenegger Classic, which is second only to the Olympia, the biggest body building competition in the world. He added, “Arnold complimented about my physique and also said he had never seen any India at a body-building tournament.”
