Bodybuilder Byekwaso now a certified fitness trainer in Germany

Five-time Uganda bodybuilding champion and the current holder of the International Natural Bodybuilding Association's (INBA) Natural Olympia championship, Ivan Byekwaso has beefed up his credentials in the sport with another certification as a fitness trainer.

Byekwaso, who last year also scooped gold in the Masters category (40-49 years) of the Mr. World Cup championship in the US is currently based in Stuttgart, Germany, where he received the certification from the Baden-Württemberg Fitness Studio in Stuttgart.

He underwent different lessons in functional anatomy, energy supply in sport, the cardiovascular system, principles of training theory, creation of training plans, training methods and exercise forms, and other lessons.

He can now utilize a wide variety of exercise techniques and training principles, as well as create training plans tailored to specific target groups. He is also now familiar with over 50 exercises and pieces of equipment, knowledge he can use to optimize his training and become a successful trainer.

“This certificate means everything in my entire sports career. It helps a lot to learn more about fitness. Not only that, but it opens your mind to think beyond when you are advising other people how to train and live a healthy lifestyle,” Byekwaso noted.

"Many times, we simply copy what others are doing, even if their ideas are wrong. By taking these incorrect ideas, we end up passing them on to others. We live in a social media generation where many people share flawed training or nutrition plans just to gain likes and followers. As a result, many individuals suffer injuries, some of which can have long-term consequences.”

"I am extremely happy to have 22 years of experience in the fitness industry. I took the time to study and explore various aspects of fitness and health, and I consider myself lucky because not everyone has the opportunity to study and pass the exams. I have seen many individuals, both white and black, attend university here in Germany, but not everyone has passed, which means they lost a significant amount of money—around €3,000 (sh13m).

“Studying in this field requires a deep understanding of human anatomy, nutrition, and supplements. Even many professionals in bodybuilding, football, and boxing haven't had the chance to pass the exams. I truly feel fortunate to have achieved this, and I am grateful to God for my accomplishments." Byekwaso stated.

“There is a lot to learn. I used to believe that training was simply about lifting weights at the gym, but that's not the case at all. As a trainer, you're taking a risk by working with people's lives if you don't have the proper training.”

This is his second certification; he obtained his first one five years ago while working at the Fit Star Fitness Studio in Munich.