As some may or may not know Johnny Fuller, one of England’s best ever bodybuilders, passed away this year.

He was a good friend and someone who I used to train with many years ago. He helped me get ready for the UK finals in 1989 where I placed 3rd. He was an incredible trainer. I felt his intensity first hand and as he has been one of the people I have most respected.

I recall training legs with him on one occasion in which he sat me on my backside. We were doing giant set circuits at a gym where he lived in Swindon where you go from one exercise to the other without stopping.  During giant sets one muscle group is chosen - say legs - and then have to choose 8-10 exercises that cover that particular group. Then you have to go from one exercise to the other in a slow and even pace but non-stop and only resting at the end of the circuit.  I clearly remember one of those exercises was 5 plate (500 lbs) squats.  This was the first time I had to sit down and watch my training partner (Johnny) carry on as though the training session was just a day in the office but without me.  It was a humbling experience to say the least.

Here are some photos of the 1989 UK finals - Vern placing 3rd with support crew Johnny Fuller and Lorne Mccalla.

Now I know the difference between a good bodybuilder, and a professional bodybuilder. A lesson I will never forget.

I was pleased to be asked by Derek Peoples to speak at his funeral. I knew Johnny only from a body building perspective, and recollected some other memorable moments.

View the Johnny Fuller photo gallery