For some of us being introduced to bodybuilding is like throwing gasoline on a fire – it ignites a powerful explosion that changes things in ways we could’ve never anticipated. However, for others bodybuilding is like a small ember that slowly but surely begins to build, grow, and burn hotter as we immerse ourselves deeper and deeper with each passing moment into the lifestyle.
In the case of NPC bodybuilder George Assmus, the small ember that ignited his flame nearly three decades ago is still burning hotter than ever has he approaches what could be a career defining moment at the upcoming North America
n Championships. I recently had a chance to catch up with George as enters into the final phases of his prep and attempts to earn the elusive pro card that has been stoking the flame to his competitive fire for so long – and you can catch all of the details right here, in this Rx Muscle exclusive interview.
Q.) Could you tell us a bit about how you first became interested in bodybuilding?
A.) When I was about 12 years old, my best friend at the time was a very talented artist. He would draw superheroes all the time. I didn't realize it at the time, but I guess that reading all of those comic books and looking at all those superheroes lifting cars and displaying other incredible feats of strength left a very strong impression on me. When I got to high school, I started wrestling. The coach would have us lift weights three days per week. After a few months, I gravitated more towards weight lifting than wrestling. I feel very blessed to have found something that I love to do with all of my heart.
Q.) At what point did you first start to seriously consider competition?
A.) I weight lifted for a long time (about 13 years) bef
ore I ever considered competing. My weight training partner at the time competed in a local competition and at that point, I decided that I would like to try it.
Q.) At this point in your competitive career you've competed and placed in the top ten in National level events and had a number of successes at lower level shows as well – what is it that still stokes the flame of your competitive fire?
A.) I love bodybuilding. I love trying to figure out how to improve my physique. Plus, I still have not achieved my goal of winning an IFBB Pro card. It is my dream. If you won't fight for your dream, then what will you fight for?
Q.) Most recently we saw you take 3rd in the over 40 Heavyweight class at Masters Nationals after four years away from the stage. What made you decide it was time to get back on stage after taking so much time away?
A.) I was very fortunate to work with some great competitors over the past few years. I was able to assist three of my clients in turning pro in various divisions (Figure, Women's Bodybuilding, and Men's Physique) as well as assisting one of my clients become the heavyweight Mr. Illinois. I guess that working with all of those incredible athletes prompted me to return to the competitive stage.
Q.) In addition to being a competitor, you're also a trainer and coach who has worked a number of athletes that have turned pro themselves. In your opinion, what would you say is more rewarding: taking one of your amateur clients and helping them earn their pro card or working with a pro and helping them dial it in and achieve their all-time best on stage?
A.) For me, it is the same thing. With everyone I've ever worked with, I try to bring them in with their all-time best physique. I believe that should be the goal every time you compete. This is a process. It's all about being better than last time.
Q.) Despite your expertise for fine tuning the physiques of others, you did still seek out a diet coach yourself, one that the RxMuscle community is familiar with, Chris Aceto. Tell us a bit about your relationship with Chris and why you decided work with him for so long.
A.) Working with Chris has been the greatest experience of my bodybuilding career. I feel so incredibly fortunate to be working with someone of his caliber. We've worked together for about 8-9 years now. He is an incredible mentor. Chris' love for the sport is undeniable. The thing that you will learn with Chris is that there is no substitute for hard work and discipline. Over the years, Chris and I have become friends and that has meant the world to me. In my opinion, there is simply no one better.
Q.) As it currently stands North Americans is right a
round the corner and you have plans to take the stage again in an attempt to earn your pro card. What sort of changes can we expect to see in your package from what you presented at Masters Nationals?
A.) I believe that I can come in a few pounds lighter, but with increased conditioning, especially in my back. I've also been practicing on my posing a lot more. I think this will allow me to present my physique better. After four years away from the stage, it takes a little time to get used to everything again.
Q.) Hypothetically, let's say that you do win your IFBB Pro card. Would we ever see you compete on a pro stage? Or is earning your pro card enough of a career-defining victory?
A.) Good question. Winning my pro card would be the fulfillment of a dream. Right now, I am just focused on that. If am fortunate enough to get the card, I will sit and speak with Chris about my competitive future.
Q.) Is there anyone you'd like to thank for helping you along the way thus far in your career?
A.) Absolutely. I've been incredibly fortunate to be surrounded by such wonderful people. I would like to thank Chris Aceto for working with me. He has definitely been the best thing that's ever happened to me in b
odybuilding. My mom, who has always been there to support me. My best friend, Jill, who gives me the strength to keep going. She deserves a lot of the credit for the success I've had in the sport thus far. My training partners, Mike Faso and Dave Gonzalez (IFBB Physique Pro). Surround yourself with good people. It will make everything in your life so much better.
Q.) If someone would like to reach out to you for diet or training inquires, what's the best way for them to reach you?
A.) My email address is [email protected] or you can simply send me a message on Facebook.
Regardless of whatever the outcome of the show may be, competitors like George, who have dedicated their life to pursing their dreams with passion, don’t need trophies, medals, or contest placings to validate their career. Instead they’ll be remembered not just for the impact that they had on the stage, but for the impact on the lives that they made away from it. We remember them because the flame of their competitive fire burned so hot that it left an indelible imprint on those of us who were fortunate enough to soak in some of their passion, knowledge, and desire. That is their legacy, and those are their career-defining moments.
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