Hugo Jaramillo

An impressive physical and mental transformation is turning into a career in fitness for this dedicated gym rat.

Written By Jim Stoppani, PhD

Updated March 4, 2021

Written by Hugo Jaramillo

How drastic of a change can I really make if I follow training and proper nutrition to an absolute T? This was a question that had plagued me for a long time. With the announcement of the 200K Transformation Challenge, I made a commitment to become my best self. I took this opportunity to put science to the test.

December 29, 2014, was the first day of the rest of my life. Over the course of 14 weeks, I didn’t miss a single workout. I didn’t miss a single meal. I didn’t have a cheat meal or even cheat bite. I needed a truthful answer to the above question.

On my final day of the challenge, I had lost a total of 30 pounds, dropped 10% body fat and trimmed 4.5 inches off my waistline. I was transformed. And my body is a product of applied science and iron will. It’s important to note that I didn’t just transform physically, but mentally as well. I learned true discipline and, more importantly, a no-excuses mentality. There’s no such thing as not having enough time. Make the time. Set a goal, make it a priority above all else, and achieve it.

Before, during and after the transformation challenge, I used (and continue to use) the entire JYM Supplement Science line of products. I also used several supplements not offered by the JYM line (yet), such as vitamin D3, CLA, fish oil, CoQ10 and a Schiff probiotic.

In addition to JYM supplements, I followed Dr. Stoppani’s Dieting 101 guidelines, his seven-day camera-ready photo-shoot prep, intermittent fasting principles, Shortcut to Shred, cardioacceleration and even some of Kris Gethin’s workouts because, as the Doc himself says, nothing beats variety. Aside from Jim’s nutrition and training advice, I would have to say meal prepping has been the biggest weapon in my arsenal. Through meal prepping, I’ve been able to keep my diet 100% in check without the urge to grab a low-quality meal for the sake of convenience. I schedule two days a week to prep 3-4 days’ worth of meals.

I made my transformation a priority above all else and because of that, sacrifices were made. I stayed away from social events that involved late nights and alcohol. During work hours, I would step away even in the busiest of moments (I’m a high-volume nightclub bartender) to get a quick meal in to make sure I was eating every 2-3 hours. At family birthdays and celebrations, I wouldn’t eat any of the delicious home-cooked food; I always brought my meals with me to the gatherings. My roommates would order food from my favorite local restaurants and pizzerias, but I wouldn't dare join in. While everyone was out partying, I was home studying. I would read about nutrition, training and supplementation daily. The more I read, the more I became obsessed with the science behind exercise physiology and nutrition. Between studying daily and seeing the results, I was gaining physically and mentally. I eventually became so passionate about health and wellness that I decided to go to college to further my education and pursue a career in the fitness industry.

The most rewarding aspect of my transformation has been the ability to inspire others. I’ve had family, friends and even strangers at the gym ask me how I changed my body in such a short amount of time and what advice I could give them about training and nutrition. There really is no better feeling than being able to help motivate people to make healthy choices. My ultimate goal is to reach as many people as I can and educate the world about living a healthy, happy and fit lifestyle.

Jim Stoppani has been the greatest inspiration and example of true integrity. I’m sure the way Joe Weider was a role model for Jim growing up was as significant as how I look up to Jim now. I hope to accomplish the same dream of not only calling Jim a colleague someday, but also a friend.

Related Articles

Foundations