What's Your "Y"

Interview with Austin Barrette, former Division 1 Football- Virginia Military Institute. Outside Linebacker. Currently an infantry officer in the Army as well as a professional surfboard shaper in San Diego. 

Give us a brief background of how your fitness/sport journey has evolved?

I went from being a seasoned power lifter from football to a more versatile athlete for the Army. For example, I could squat 580 when I played but couldn't run a mile. Now I will squat sets of 20 with 315 and can run 10 miles at a 7:00 pace.

What (or who) has been your main source of motivation over the years?

I don't need motivation from anyone but me. I find comparing myself to others, good or bad isn't what works for me. I just stay in my lane, keep my head down and work.

What is the biggest mental challenge you've had to face in your sport and how have you conquered that?

Coming back from multiple knee surgeries definitely sucked. The way I conquered it was simple. I showed up with a good attitude every day, did my therapy and took the proper steps to get back on the field. It paid off when I was able to start my senior year.

What do you do to make sure you're physically and mentally prepared for competition?

I show up every day even when my mind tries to keep me from waking up early. Every day I do something that challenges me, and when I show up to the gym I compete with myself.

Describe your recovery strategies.

I don't have monthly recovery strategies, my recovery is daily. I use YOLKED to allow me to compete every day. Its certainly easier to do what I do when I can compare my numbers on a daily basis. With proper recovery, I can PR more often, YOLKED allows me to do that more often.

What's Your "Y"? 

My Y is pretty simple. Its to give myself and those around me the best life we can have. With proper preparation, I don't need to rely on luck for promotions, PR's or recognition.

Where do you see yourself as an athlete in 5 years?

I see myself in as good in shape as I currently am, maybe even better. Consistency day in and day out will allow me to have that. That means showing up, taking my recovery supplements (YOLKED included), and taking the necessary steps to maximize my bodies capabilities.

Favorite motivational song.

Live Free by Nick Sefakis