Christophe Van Dijck aka Hulk Mafia
What does a typical day look like for Hulk Mafia?
I prioritize consistency and keep it simple. I always wake up early (usually before 6AM), and get my day going. At this point in my life, I’m trying to be hyper focused on my goals. Everyday I’m committed to training my hardest and being the best teacher I can be. I spend most of my day where I want to be, the gym. I do have some balance and make time for friends and socializing, but only if I get my work done!
How do you find that ‘balance’ between your passion, career, and health?
I made a career from my passion which is being a high level athlete. So for me, I’m living my dream. Most people think that being a high level athlete is healthy but it's not really because your pushing your body to its limits all the time. The only way to survive and actually be healthy is to prioritize your sleep, nutrition, supplements, skincare, mobility and future proofing physiotherapy.
How important is mindset for you in your training?
Mindset is everything, I actually realized during covid that I wasn’t doing enough and I’ve started to work with a sports psychologist. I’m always looking for ways to increase performance in and out of sport. Mindset is really important because motivation can sometimes be hard to find, but if your mindset is strong you will keep going and that drive will give you confidence to face anything in life!
What is your weekly training routine? How do you break up your training?
I always plan two training sessions per day. One high intensity to work on cardio, endurance and mentality and one lower intensity to learn new techniques or sharpen what I already know. I take rest days when I need them, listen to your body!
Who is your biggest inspiration and why?
Who inspires me for the moment is Lewis Hamilton because even after winning 7 World Championships he still maintains an amazing fire to be stronger and better! Since the beginning of my athletic endeavors, my girlfriend has always been my inspiration. She’s always been my biggest supporter and encourages me to be a better person, partner, and athlete. She herself is always striving, not to break records, but to become the best version of herself and that for me, is true inspiration.
Who do you call for advice?
I call Léo Elias, my head coach and my really good friend Thibault Thiry. For me, they are family and they will always be. I can share anything and everything with them.
What is your 10 year vision?
Being a well-known athlete who inspires others to be the best version of themselves.
How do you prioritize your mental health?
It might sound cliché but it's spending time in nature, traveling and being around the people I care about!
Favourite REYAL product?
Skincare is new for me. I never took the time to take care of my skin because I was working out so much. Once I started, I actually noticed a big difference in my skin, I didn’t realize how much consistent sweating was impacting the quality of my skin. If I could only have 1 REYAL product for life, it would the REYAL Select Serum, it makes my skin feel recharged, hydrated, and protected. No real favorites because they all play a crucial role for my skin training!
