Sponsored by Stand Up To Cancer
A Wigan man who defeated skin cancer and mental health problems is now set to take to the bodybuilding stage
36-year-old Chris Halsall battled a form of skin cancer before going on to compete in two charity boxing events. Speaking exclusively to JOE, Halsall said:
“For years I’d suffered with mental health. Nothing mattered to me, I felt lost and worthless. I lost relationships with family and friends. I was drinking heavily, missing work.”
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Halsall’s health was then dealt a major blow.
“At the end of January, I was told I had squamous cell skin cancer. It could have gone two ways – give up or fight. And fight is exactly what I did.”
Despite the early diagnosis, Halsall took swift action with his health and this decision paid off.
“I had surgery to have it removed and was given the all clear. After this, I felt like I’d been given a second chance.
“I grabbed life with both hands post-surgery and just powered on. Once I was healed, I took part in two white collar charity boxing events for Cancer Research and a mental health charity.”
After his two charity boxing bouts, Halsall turned his focus towards the strength training arena – where he had previously gained so much confidence.
“I was feeling good but unsure whether I was as mentally strong as I thought I was. I contacted an online coach.
“We discussed my situation, and I started a 16 week competition prep program.”
It was under the coach’s guidance that the 36-year-old truly flourished.
“I followed a tailored weightlifting programme and diet, and they worked wonders.”
Halsall’s training now follows a Push-Pull-Legs split. He has shared an example push workout for JOE readers, which will stimulate your chest, triceps and shoulders. It is followed by an hours walk on treadmill.
- Barbell Bench Press: 4 sets
- Flat Dumbbell Chest Flyes: 4 sets
- Dumbbell Seated Shoulder Press: 4 sets
- Dumbbell Lateral Raise: 4 sets
- EZ Bar Skull Crushers: 4 sets
- Cable Rope Tricep Extension: 4 sets
The Wigan man is now keen to impart his knowledge onto others, and promote the positive impact that regular exercise can have on your mental health and your outlook.
“My quest now is to help as many people as I can. I’m currently studying for an advanced nutrition diploma. I hope I can inspire people to make that first step on their path to change.”
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