A MAN from Galashiels has achieved professional bodybuilder status.

Ross Hume has won his International Federation of Bodybuilding and Fitness (IFBB) Pro Card, which allows him to compete in professional events across the world.

The card is distributed by the body and must be earned by winning an IFBB Pro-Qualifying event judged by the organisation.

Holders of the card have the potential to earn money from events and be part of the biggest organisation of professional bodybuilders in the world. 

Mr Hume said: "I’ve been going to the gym since I left school 10 years ago but over the last five years I’ve taken it much more seriously with the eventual goal of getting on stage.

"Last year was my first competitive season as a bodybuilder where I managed to take second in the two shows I competed in."

Mr Hume highlighted the importance of having a solid support network in the lead-up to competitions, noting that bodybuilding can often be a lonely sport.

He said: "Having the circle around me that I do alongside my coach helps to keep me accountable and motivated.

"The routine leading into shows is very meticulous — every gram of food weighed, no weights or cardio sessions missed."

Mr Hume also spoke about how bodybuilding has positively impacted his life.

He said: "Bodybuilding as a whole has had a huge impact on my life through giving me the outlet of the gym but also the structure and routine that carries over into other aspects, such as the discipline that’s needed for a bodybuilding prep and also the mental fortitude that comes along with it."

Mr Hume reflects on his achievement of winning the Pro Card, a goal he thought unattainable when he first set foot in the gym.

He said: "Achieving my Pro Card in the most prestigious bodybuilding league in the world, especially being only my second year of competing, is a goal I’ve had since I stepped foot in the gym, but never thought I’d be capable of doing.

"It’s also helped enable me to become an even better personal trainer and coach to all my clients by walking the walk myself which then can carry over into helping other people pursue dreams within the fitness industry."