A Cumbrian bodybuilder has been crowned national champion.
Mark Coulson, 49, from Carlisle, took the top spot at the NAC UK Championship in Burnley and went on to claim third place at the IBFA British Finals in Blackpool, missing out on second place by a single point.
Mark Coulson with his NAC UK trophy. (Image: Mark Coulson)
Mr Coulson said: “It was just euphoric and a dream really.
“It was honestly like a dream come true because I’ve worked hard for it.”
He began bodybuilding as a way to cope with grief after losing his mother, saying the sport has since become a transformative part of his life.
Not long before his latest success, Mr Coulson earned professional status in the sport.
Mr Coulson with all of his trophies. (Image: Mark Coulson)
He believes that targeted improvements to his physique helped him reach new heights this season.
He said: “A lot of the judges’ feedback was, ‘You just need to bring your legs up a bit,’ so obviously I worked on that.
“I’ve got a more balanced physique now.”
Mr Coulson with his wife, Michelle. (Image: Mark Coulson)
Rather than focusing solely on lifting heavier weights, he emphasised the importance of technique and the mind-to-muscle connection.
Mr Coulson on stage with his first place award. (Image: Mark Coulson)
He said: “It’s so important for mind-to-muscle connection.
“You’ve got to think about what you’re doing and when you’re doing it and executing the movement.”
Mr Coulson on stage (left). (Image: Mark Coulson)
Having qualified for the NAC Universe competition in Germany, Mr Coulson is now planning an off-season break before deciding on his next steps.
His ultimate aim is to compete on the biggest international stages.
He said: “I think my goal would be to qualify for the Universe and the World Championships.”
Mr Coulson (right) during his third-place finish in the IBFA competition. (Image: Mark Coulson)
Beyond trophies and titles, Mr Coulson hopes his journey will inspire others.
He said: “If it’s going to inspire one person in their forties or fifties to follow their dreams, then it’s worth doing.
“A lot of people have said that I inspire them, and it’s nice to hear that.
“If I can help one person, that’s brilliant for me.”
