HE'S the kind of guy who'll walk into any room and grab your attention. After all, he's no ordinary man. Anybody who packs about 250 pounds of muscle on a near 6-foot frame would make most people do a double take.

Carmichael Bryan is a former Mr. Barbados bodybuilding and Central America and Caribbean (CAC) champ, who recently turned professional.

He now flexes his muscles in Bermuda, not so much on the bodybuilding stage, but as a personal trainer. He was recently back home for a short stint to help client Tamesha Lewis get into top shape for the CAC if she makes the national team.

While in Barbados, Mr. Bryan told the Nation newspaper he was impressed with the way Bermudans took their health and fitness so seriously and don't hesitate to hire personal trainers.

"My list of clients is pretty wide. I train bodybuilders, body figure competitors, teachers, you name it. I also have on my list Bermuda's Minister of Tourism Dr. Ewart Brown," said Mr. Bryan, who turned pro in 2004 after winning the CAC title that same year.

The heavyweight, who moved to Bermuda in January, helped to shape some of the competitors for the island's top muscle show, Night Of Champions.

"I also prepared Ross Caesar, who won the overall showdown to become Mr. Bermuda. I am also working with a competitor for the Arnold Classic which is scheduled for March next year."

Mr. Bryan (right in photo above)is very much focused on personal training.

"Being a professional bodybuilder doesn't mean you have to win pro shows. You can use the knowledge you gain from being a bodybuilder and a certified personal trainer to train other people or athletes."

He said he planned to market himself by taking a few shows to boost his personal training career.

"I guest posed at Night of Champions in Bermuda where I received plenty of positive feedback and potential sponsors.

"As a personal trainer I believe you have to look the part and have a good track record, so I'll be looking to compete next your in Europe or the New York Pro Show."