My journey into fitness started for one reason — I wanted to be great at bodybuilding. At first, it was selfish. I wanted to learn everything I could about the human body so I could compete at the highest level. But as I dug deeper, that curiosity became something much bigger.
From the very beginning, I operated off honesty. I didn’t want shortcuts, and I never believed that real results came from supplements, steroids, or diuretics. To me, bodybuilding was an art — and food was the brush. I wanted to prove that it was possible to build a world-class physique naturally, through proper nutrition, training, and understanding how the body truly works.
That drive led me to study the science behind fitness. I earned my bachelor’s and master’s degrees and even wrote my master’s thesis on protein synthesis. I didn’t have a mentor; I created my own path, following my intuition and passion. That path took me from being a football player to a competitive bodybuilder, and ultimately, to where I am today — focused on total wellness.
During my bodybuilding career, I achieved a lot I’m proud of. At 22, I became the youngest person to win the NPC Super Heavyweight Championship. At 26, I won the Bill Grant Classic, one of the biggest East Coast NPC shows. Later, I earned a national pro title at a show in Sioux Falls, South Dakota — all through natural training. My physique and my education spoke for themselves, proving that discipline and science can outperform shortcuts.
Over time, my focus shifted. I still train a few competitors for shows, but today, my passion lies in helping people of all backgrounds — from kids and athletes to older adults learning to walk again. Wellness isn’t just about how you look; it’s about how you live.
Everything I’ve built — my philosophy, my programs, and my purpose — stems from those early bodybuilding days. It’s where I learned that success isn’t about being the biggest person on stage; it’s about understanding yourself, fueling your body with respect, and always striving to evolve.
Learn more about Ryan Matter’s journey with UFC here. Be sure to try Ryan’s training using his popular Matter Health Associates app.
