Rey Talosig: The alpha challenger
You might recognize actor and model Rey Talosig from his stint as Bathalang Emre on GMA’s Encantadia or from his impressive Nutri-Up Your Game campaign for Milo. Beyond aesthetics, Rey is an incredible athlete — incredibly fast, strong and functional. He can outrun and out-muscle almost anyone.
Rey is a personal trainer and multi-sport athlete who frequently joins fitness challenges. He was the very first winner of the nationwide search for the toughest Pinoy, KIX R U Tough Enough, and has also placed in the Top 3 of Under Armour’s Test of Will.
His athleticism is beyond question. We personally witnessed how he played his first basketball game for a minor league. He showed up and the real players were late. The coach just gave him pointers. After a few minutes, he was playing like a pro. He could go from one end of the court to the other in a few long and fast strides! He even flew to dunk the ball!
Rey is currently training for The Alpha Challenge on Sept. 8 at the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention Center. He shares his tips on training and dares you to take the challenge yourself.
Philippine STAR: What keeps you busy nowadays? What is a typical day in your life?
Rey Talosig: When there are no shoots or tapings you can find me at the UFC Gym in UP Town Center or just home, watching films. I am always spending time with my daughter, my girlfriend and my family. I also do personal training with clients. Ideally, a typical day starts with a morning bike and run, then some meditation and playing classical guitar, then work if I have work.
Why is working out a priority for you?
It’s a priority because I believe in the maxim mensana et morpore sano — a sound mind in a sound body. I want to enjoy the quality of my life as both participant and observer. Being fit and healthy allows me to do that.
Why do you enjoy joining fitness challenges?
I enjoy joining fitness challenges because I learn more about myself each time. “Know thyself,” said the wise man. As much as you test your body’s responsiveness as a machine, you get updated as to how your mind responds as well. Variables such as perseverance, ingenuity, patience and strategy among others come into play. Of course, victory is always sweet.
How do you influence your inner circle to be fit?
My daughter, Sophie Celestine, which means “divine wisdom,” is 12. She bikes and plays volleyball. But her passion is really music. She is a singer/songwriter. I try to make fitness as fun as possible, and having my kid actively engaged in my sport. For instance, every Sunday, in my alma mater, the UP Academic Oval is exclusive for bikers and pedestrians. I try to have my dad, mom, siblings and daughter bike and run together. Afterwards, we can enjoy some corn and delicious taho.
How do you prepare for fitness challenges?
Focus and visualization are important. I gather all the small victories I have had in life. I transport myself in those winning moments, try to capture and replicate that triumphant emotion as well as the dread, the fear of the unknown, the nervous anticipation and distill everything to a teardrop. Of course, the physical preparation is already given. You do your best. If you are lucky, you would have won twice already: in your mind and in its unfolding, extended reality.
Do you follow any special diet?
No special diet, really, just everything in moderation. But the emphasis is on whole foods: lots of fruits and vegetables, plenty of water. I wish I could tone down on sugar and chocolates, though.
What is the hardest part of a challenge? What goes through your mind when you’re pushing your body to the limit?
The dreadful anticipation leading to its inception is the toughest part. Commitment. Unflinching commitment takes me to my limit.
Any words of encouragement for someone considering joining a challenge?
Total commitment, because it is a reward in itself.
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Post me a note at mylene@goldsgym.com.ph or mylenedayrit@gmail.com.
