I have not eaten fat for six years- Top body builder Kelly Otieno

 Mombasa based body builder, fitness model and gym instructor Kelly Otieno shows off his muscles at Suzy's gym in Bamburi in Mombasa

When Kelly Otieno lifts weights, the rippling muscles on his shoulders resemble a huge, twisted giant rope.

The 32-year-old professional body builder, fitness model and gym instructor who beat over 100 other body builders to emerge third in last year’s Mr Kenya Body Building competition in Nairobi, says he has avoided fatty foods for the past six years.

“It was tough at first, but with time, I was able to keep fatty foods from my plate. I have not eaten anything fatty for the past six years,” says Otieno.

He attributes his success to a rigorous fitness schedule and a balanced diet.

“I get very happy when women throw glances at my muscular frame. Kids refer to me as mtu wa kijoka (muscular man),” says Otieno, adding that he spends Sh50,000 on food and supplements every month.

“I keep to a low-fat diet to maintain proportional abs. I make sure I eat a balanced meal rich in proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals. I take a lot of fruits and salads and shun caffeine and alcohol,” he adds.

“I abhor processed foods and would rather eat cassavas, arrow roots, yams, fresh green leafy vegetables and fish, as well as beef steak from one end-month to another. I buy foodstuff at Kongowea market,” he reveals.

He says that many young men are impressed by his physique and often ask him what they can do to attain his level of fitness. But he notes that unfortunately, most of the lack the required dedication and discipline.

“I receive at least 100 messages daily through my Facebook page from young and even middle-aged people seeking to know what they can do to have abs like mine. But most give up when I tell them of the amount of workout and self- discipline required,” says Otieno, who runs a Facebook fan page - Iron Fitness Kenya