Shaun Fury Explores Own Potential, Perseverance and Natural Excellence

Can you tell us about yourself, your family and what part of the country you grew up in? how was your life growing up in America?

SHAUN FURY : I’m originally from New Jersey. I grew up with my parents and my older brother. I’ve always had a passion for acting and filmmaking, and actually set out to Los Angeles to pursue a career in the entertainment industry. 

Shaun Fury

When did your interest for fitness begin? When did you start thinking of it as a sport?

SHAUN FURY: I started working out at a pretty early age, 12 years old. I did it with the hopes of becoming more attractive to the girls in my middle school. I thought that if I had six pack abs I would get more attention, so I started doing crunches every night before going to sleep. Happy to report that it worked to some extent. Girls did become a lot more receptive to me after the secret got out that I had abs. From that point on I always kept an interest in fitness and enjoyed my ability to change and improve my physique by spending time in the gym. In high school I was aware of the sport of bodybuilding however I never considered the option of competing as a bodybuilder as I did not really like the appearance of the top athletes in the sport. Ronnie Coleman was considered the greatest bodybuilder at that time and I felt that he was far too large for me to ever want to aspire to be like him. It wasn’t until the past two years where I realized the lack of attention and relevancy applied to the sport of Natural Bodybuilding (bodybuilding without the use of steroids) that I decided to compete as a Natural Bodybuilder and put a spotlight on this side of the sport. 

Shaun Fury (center)

What is a Natural Body Builder? What is the history of Natural Body Building? What part do you play in it?

SHAUN FURY: Natural Bodybuilding is the side of the sport that no one talks about. There are a multitude of bodybuilding federations that prohibit the use of PEDs (performance-enhancing drugs) to compete. The most notable of all bodybuilding federations is called the NPC/IFBB. This is an exciting time in the history of this sport as this most prominent federation is actually starting to prioritize natural bodybuilding more than ever before and are creating there own circuit of drug-tested shows for natural bodybuilders to compete on an even playing field. My intention is to become a professional natural bodybuilder within the biggest bodybuilding federation, IFBB, and become the face of this sport. In the same way that Arnold Schwarzenegger popularized the sport of bodybuilding through his star power, constant promotion, and starring in a documentary, it is my intention to execute the same strategy only for natural bodybuilding.

Can you share with us what brands are supporting Natural Body Building?

SHAUN FURY: Natural bodybuilding really doesn’t have the level of support that I believe it deserves. However, some prominent brands include supplement companies like Optimum Nutrition, which has a range of products certified free from banned substances, and Gymshark, which sponsors a number of natural athletes. Additionally, smaller, niche brands that focus on natural supplements and clean nutrition are slowly getting involved to support athletes who compete naturally. 

Shaun Fury

What themes were you exploring with this film and whatare their significance to everyday life?

SHAUN FURY: In my documentary, I explore themes of realizing your own potential, perseverance, and natural excellence. These themes are significant to everyday life as they promote the idea that one can achieve greatness without resorting to shortcuts. It emphasizes the importance of hard work, dedication, and staying true to oneself, values that are applicable in all areas of life, not just in bodybuilding. 

Who are others in the sports worth noting? What region is most active in this sport? Where do the events usually happen? Is it Televised?

SHAUN FURY: The most notable figure in the world of natural bodybuilding would have to be Mike O’Hearn although it has long since been believed within the community that he is dishonest about his claim of being a lifetime natural. Which is why it is so important to me to fill this vacancy of a lack of a prominent natural bodybuilding figure. There is also successful Youtuber, Jeff Nippard, known for his evidence-based approach to bodybuilding. The sport is particularly active in North America, with regions like California, Texas and Florida hosting many competitions. Major events usually take place in cities with a strong fitness culture, such as Los Angeles, Las Vegas and Miami. While natural bodybuilding events aren’t as widely televised as mainstream bodybuilding competitions, they are gaining more traction streaming platforms and social media, allowing for broader exposure. 

Shaun Fury, natural bodybuilding competition

What challenges have you confronted while preparing for competitions? What injuries, if any? How do injuries impact your Readiness?

SHAUN FURY: I recently just competed in my first bodybuilding show this past June. I ended up placing second in my class, competing against natural and enhanced athletes alike. Preparing for competitions involves intense physical and mental challenges. One of the biggest hurdles is maintaining a strict diet and training regimen without overtraining, which can lead to injuries. I’m grateful that I have been able to avoid any serious injuries that could have prevented me from continuing my training. I prioritize rest and recovery and always make sure to get adequate amount of sleep each night. 

How would you define ambition? How do you feel about the use of the phrase “Gym Whore”?

SHAUN FURY: Ambition is the relentless pursuit of one’s goals and dreams, driven by a deep-seated desire to achieve excellence and make a meaningful impact. It’s about setting high standards for oneself and continuously striving to meet and exceed them. As for the phrase “Gym Whore”, I certainly don’t mind it. Perhaps it could be perceived as having a negative association since the term whore is often used derogatively. However, I have never been one to use the term whore with a negative connotation attached, so to be called a Gym Whore would simply suggest to me a person that loves to workout. 

Natural Bodybuilding Competition - Shaun Fury.

How do you see your career impact the American lifestyle today or in the future?

SHAUN FURY: My career has the potential to inspire a shift towards a more health-conscious and naturally-driven fitness culture in America. By promoting natural bodybuilding, I hope to encourage people to pursue their fitness goals through hard work and dedication rather than the use of performance enhancing drugs. This can lead to a broader apprecation for natural athleticism and help redefine societal standards of health and fitness. 

Donte Ware (L) Shaun Fury(R)

What are your future plans for the sport and for yourself?

SHAUN FURY: My future plans include continuing to compete as a Natural Bodybuilder and aiming for professional status within the IFBB. I also plan to expand my documentary to reach a wider audience, shedding light on what can be achieved naturally. Additionally, I hope to launch a platform dedicated to natural bodybuilding, offering resources, training programs, and a supportive community for those who share this passion. 

Outside of fitness what do you do in your spare time?

SHAUN FURY: While fitness does take up a huge amount of my daily routine, I also thoroughly enjoy going to the movies, listening to music and socializing with friends and family. One of my favorite ways to relax is by spending the day with my son at a park or walking him through my neighborhood in his stroller. I also enjoy reading and constantly seek to educate myself on various topics, ranging from nutrition and wellness to personal development. 

How would you define your personal style outside of your workout gear? Or is that your style?

SHAUN FURY: My personal style outside of workout gear is incredibly casual and laid back. I enjoy comfortable clothing that allows me to move freely, reflecting my active lifestyle. However, I do like to dress up for special occasions and appreciate classic, well-tailored pieces that exude confidence and sophistication. 

Is there anything specific you want to share with our readers?

SHAUN FURY: I want to share with your readers the importance of believing in oneself and the power of perseverance. Whether in fitness or any other aspect of life, staying true to your values and working diligently towards your goals can lead to incredible achievements. Embrace your journey, stay dedicated, and remember that great things are possible naturally. Thank you for the opportunity to share my story.