Expert: Thom Brooks - 1/21/2008

Question
QUESTION: i am 6"4 270 pounds i use to play football in highschool and im in my 2nd yr of college and im still 18 i know that i have time but not alot of time. i want to get my speed down to about 4.7 4.6 and my bench up to 320 because io want to play tighend for a d1aa team. what foods should i stay away from and what protiens shoudl i take to get muscle mass and also what can i do to improve my speed

ANSWER: Emmanuel, hello!  You certainly have the size for a TE.
Your speed is not sprinter's level, but if you're strong and run good routes, you will be a tremendous athlete for the team you play for.  

Everything you've asked about will improve as you continue your weight lifting and running schedule.  Your diet needs to be determined by the trainers and your personal physician.  You can go to a Health food store to get advise on supplements.  You certainly need to avoid any potential illegal or hazardous supplements.  

Remember, at your age you are about to add the growth that
your workouts will provide.  You are going to grow.  Keep up the exercises and eat a balanced diet.  You can eat sensibly, keep working out, lose 20 pounds and become one of the best tight ends in the nation!

Take care,

Thom Brooks

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I'm looking for a trainer but its hard to find one in nyc. Do you know of any good football gyms or trainers in nyc that I can go to.

Answer
Emmanuel, hello!

I do not know of any, but contact the local colleges and YMCA.  They will know the ones with the best reputations.
Just checking the area for Fitness Centers may not give you an idea of the one best suited for your needs.

I coach a men's baseball team.  One of our players owns a dozen Fitness centers but he doesn't go into New York.  I will talk to him this week. He is called the Godfather, so maybe he will have someone in his "Family" that can lead you to the best place!!

Take care,

Thom Brooks