Emil Matute journey to fitness has been a long journey filled with adversity. The former Army soldier spent time in prison only to find his passion for the fitness industry.
The fitness trainer sat down with Industry Rules to discuss his redemption and his journey and passion for fitness.
AF: How has life been for you during the COVID-19 pandemic?
EM: Well, I was in Manhattan federal holding jail fighting my case. I recently copped out to 78-97 months on a RICO charge and was awaiting sentencing. One thing for sure, no-good time is a time to be in jail, but during the pandemic was the worst. The only thing that kept me sane was writing music and working out.
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AF: How did you get involved in the fitness industry?
EM: In the Army, I always won physical fitness awards, but I didn’t take it seriously. I just knew I was good at it. When I caught my case, I started to really take it seriously. It helped me cope with things during my time in prison. So, I told myself I want to be a personal trainer when I get released. I ended up serving for almost 5 years.
I was introduced to A Second U foundation. It’s a program that helps ex-convicts get their personal trainer certification for free. It helped me land a job at Blink Fitness. I initially worked at the front desk while I was in school and got promoted to personal trainer the day of the grand opening at West Fordham location over the summer.
AF: After your military career, you faced some hard circumstances and adversity. How were you able to overcome
the negativity in your while making a positive turn?
EM: I put my faith in GOD first, keep working out and try to stay positive. I’ll never forget where I came from, but I give my best efforts every day to move forward and elevate myself. I’ve been blessed since being home and it’s the just the start. I’m continuing to work on my comeback story since we know the background.
AF: As a fitness trainer, what are some of the tips you can share about men’s overall health and fitness?
EM: Diet and food is key and it’s everything! It’s 80% percent of getting where you want to be physically. Proper rest is equally important. Everybody asking about supplements and things of that nature, but real foods is everything. Invest in some sea moss! You won’t regret it. Also remember alcohol slows down protein synthesis by 20%. Let’s drink more water.
AF: What’s next for your career?
EM: Well by the time this issue comes out I’ll be certified to hold Zumba classes and I’m going back to into the studio as well. I was rapping Reggaeton before my incarceration and want to continue. As far as fitness, that’s something I’ll never leave alone, and I want to take it to the top! I’m also working on my brand right now and the audience can follow my fitness page @ruthless.fitnesss.
