Could   you   tell   us   a   bit   about   yourself   and   how   you   started   training?

100% Filipino, grew up in Houston, Texas and currently residing in New York City.

I got started when I entered a model search for a local magazine and been in love with fitness and the lifestyle ever since.

How   do   you   stay   motivated?

I’m a visual person so I get inspired by fit models like Marissa Miller (I love her combination of femininity and fitness).  And you know how you get motivated to do kung-fu moves after watching a great Bruce Lee movie, I get motivated to work out after watching movies like 300 and shows like Spartacus.   Also the great feeling of accomplishment and knowing you’re healthier and more fit than the day before helps too

What   is   your   current   workout   routine?

I recently picked up biking around the park every time weather permits.  The park near me is about 5 miles and has hills!  This has been my morning routine.  On weight days, I do my lap around the park and head straight to the gym.

Here is my current schedule:

Cardio:
4 to 6 times a week – Biking

Weights:
4 exercises each
Monday: Back, Biceps, Triceps
Wednesday: Legs, Glutes, Abs
Friday: Chest, Abs, Shoulders
Sunday: Legs, Glutes, Abs

What   is   your   diet   like?

I’m a foodie so when I see dishes like “Avocado Quinoa Salad” or “Kale Pancakes” my eyes sparkle!  I love trying new healthy food.  Who said food that’s good for you has to taste bland?  I found great food spots and have been keeping track of them on my urbanspoon. I’ve also created a section on my site called “Pretty Hungry” where I’ll be sharing more great spots and new fresh recipes that will help make staying healthy easier

What   gives   you   the   best   results   when   cutting?

I remember a friend/trainer recommended taking Water Out by NOW a few days prior to a shoot.  I said sure! It was not the best experience – I was so thirsty and was very mindful of it – I already drink tons of water so feeling this way wasn’t something I can get used to.  Ever since then, I stick to the tried and true cardio.  I’m a huge fan of biking around the park

What   3   exercises   have   you   benefited   the   most   from?

Leg Press, Jump Squats and Lunges – All legs

What   supplements   do   you   use?

Vitamins and Protein.  I drink a multi-vitamin with every meal and take a protein shake when I wake up and after workouts.

I use Alive! Multi-Vitamin and for protein I found Lean Body and Optimum Nutrition Whey works great – I’m a fan of the chocolate flavors.

What   is   the   most   common   training   question   that   people   ask   you?

“What’s my favorite work out”.  I have a love and hate relationship with burpees.  It hurts so good – my fave

Who   are   your   favorite   fitness   models?

Top 3 so far:  Marissa Miller, Jessica Biel and Jamie Eason.

What   is   your   greatest   achievement   so   far?

My recent move to New York City to pursue and promote the fitness lifestyle.  One of the biggest and challenging experiences of my life.  I’m still in the midst of the transition, but feels like a second home already.

What   are   your   plans   for   the   future?

I can see myself collaborating with friends to create great work out gear or even help promote them! ….and continue sharing creative yummy healthy recipes and work out tips.

Oh and… travel the world!!!

MC   Barao   Gallery

Other Links:
bodyspace.com/mc_hammer
modelmayhem.com/mchammer
mcbarao.tumblr.com
facebook.com/themcbarao