John Cornell
I am a band member who resides on Fort William First Nation. I take pride in being a father, and Grandfather to four grandkids. I like to keep busy doing something that gets me out of the house. I like to explore, adventure s and live an active lifestyle by going to the gym to workout. Since I decided to live a healthy lifestyle, I have competed in my first Men’s Physique Bodybuilding show (sanctioned Canadian Physique Alliance CPA), and I won my first show in Winnipeg. Now, I am seeking a Pro Card in Men’s Physique Grand Masters division to inspire others that you can do whatever you want regardless of your age or present condition.
What is the role of sport/physical activity in your life?
I am a Men’s Physique athlete and I compete in CPA sanctioned events. I have competed in the Grand Master and also in the open category in Men’s Physique. I workout 5+ times a week at the gym and spend a lot of time outside during the warmer months doing hiking, walking, and camping.
How do you define wellness?
At this point in my life, if I get the required hours of sleep needed for my age so I am able to stay healthy. I do 5weight training workouts in a week, and at least 30 to 45 minutes of cardio per day to stay lean, eat a clean diet regularly, drink my 4L of water and make sure to eat some fruits and veggies and this all helps me to stay healthy. However, what I’ve learned in my many years of training at this level is that each person’s wellness goals are unique. Wellness is really all about striving for your most balanced state by continually striving towards maintaining a healthy lifestyle and peace of mind.
What are the things you do each day that make you a ‘Wellness Warrior’?
Every morning I start off my day thinking and thanking the creator for my health and just being grateful for being alive. I often reflect on where I was 10 years ago and how grateful I am to where my journey is taking me. I try and give back or do what I can to make a homeless person or someone having financially tough time in life some hope that things will change. I do know that good things are going to happen to me not by chance but by the work I’m putting into living each day the best I can.
Who or what is your inspiration?
What did inspire me when I first started back 10 years ago was my kids. I wanted to stay physically active as they grew up so I would be around for them as they became adults. I use to have a huge backyard rink and I would dress in my goalie equipment so that my kids would have someone to take shots on. My inspiration 10 years ago was my children. My inspiration today is watching and helping others begin their fitness journey because I believe it changes the person in a good way by providing confidence and building self-esteem. My motivation is to assist my band members to start a healthy lifestyle so they can stay on the right track of a healthy mind and a healthy spirit. My advice to others looking at doing some bodybuilding is that they can do it as long as they make the commitment and can make some healthy lifestyle changes. There is no reason or excuse they can’t achieve their goals! “Just do it,” as Nike slogan reads.