The key to Mark Taylor’s success as Mr. Universe was a simple yet revolutionary change in his diet – potatoes with a bowl of cereal. Throughout his life, Mark had been a well-known bodybuilder, dedicating countless hours to intense workouts and following the standard muscle-building protocol of a low-carb, high-protein diet. Despite his efforts, he struggled with chronic fatigue, “flat” muscles, and had yet to achieve his dream of becoming Mr. Universe. It wasn’t until he sought the advice of a new coach that things began to change.
His new coach recommended a radical shift in Mark’s diet. In addition to his usual chicken and vegetables, she suggested incorporating sweet potatoes, white potatoes, grapes, and porridge into his meals. Mark was initially hesitant, having been conditioned to believe that the key to success in bodybuilding lay in strict dieting and restriction. However, he was willing to try anything to achieve his goal of winning the Mr. Universe Masters Over 45 title.
As Mark started to introduce more carbs into his diet, he noticed significant changes in his physique and performance. Initially, he experienced discomfort as his body adjusted to the increased food intake, but soon he began to feel stronger and more energized than ever before. He found that he could work out for longer periods and his muscles started to look fuller and harder. The shift in his diet proved to be a game-changer for Mark’s bodybuilding journey.
Professor Lindsay Jaacks, an expert in health and nutrition at the University of Edinburgh, emphasized the importance of carbohydrates for physical activity. She highlighted the critical role that carbs play in providing energy for workouts and supporting muscle growth. Mark, who stands at 5 feet 8 inches tall, increased his daily caloric intake from 2,500 to 5,800 calories after adjusting his diet. This change, along with the inclusion of more carbs, led to a noticeable transformation in his physique.
With his newfound approach to nutrition, Mark achieved his lifelong dream of winning the Mr. Universe title in November. This prestigious accolade, awarded by the National Amateur Body-Builders’ Association, was a testament to his hard work and dedication. Despite his initial doubts, Mark’s decision to embrace a carb-rich diet had paid off in ways he never imagined possible.
Looking back on his journey, Mark reflected on the misconceptions he had believed about carbohydrates and their role in bodybuilding. He admitted that he had underestimated the importance of carbs and had only truly realized their significance after making the dietary changes. His success in bodybuilding competitions, including titles like Mr. England, Mr. United Kingdom, Mr. Britain, and Mr. World, served as proof of the transformative power of carbs in his diet.
In addition to his remarkable achievements in bodybuilding, Mark is also a successful entrepreneur, owning Taylormade Gym and Fitness in Leven alongside his wife Anita and children Bodhi and Dalton. His passion for bodybuilding began during his time working at a prominent Scottish soft drink company, where he first discovered his love for lifting weights and building muscle.
Mark’s journey from a young bodybuilding enthusiast to a seasoned professional serves as an inspiring example of the impact that dietary changes can have on athletic performance. By embracing carbs and breaking free from traditional dieting norms, Mark was able to reach the pinnacle of success in bodybuilding and achieve his lifelong goal of becoming Mr. Universe. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance, innovation, and a willingness to challenge conventional wisdom in pursuit of greatness.
