They call him Kuwait’s human flagpole, a freakish force of nature that is physically able to attach and climb the most random of structures around town. Fawaz Al-Qanae is indeed a force to be reckoned with, but he is no oddity. He’s totally entitled to demonstrate his hardly earned strength.

The 37-year-old ex-banker/auditor turned Personal Trainer and Gym Owner doesn’t mind showing off his incredible ability. He first became interested in fitness back in 2008 when a medical diagnosis of three bulging discs temporary limited the now Calisthenics expert to using a cane to get around town. Rather than wallow in misery, Fawaz channeled his frustration into making a conscious, long-term decision to become stronger.

Initially weighing in at 105 kg, Fawaz decided to master his own body movement through Calisthenics and bodyweight training. He was intrigued by the notion of progression; from yielding control of a cane, to mastering his own body movement. He said, “I believed that I had no business trying to master heavy weights if I could not control my own bodyweight.” Today, a quick Instagram search of his account @fitnessfreakq8 will stun the laziest couch potato. Fawaz’s movements are artistic, masterful and extremely well thought out. Once you get over your envy of his slim silhouette, you’ll instantly want to turn on your designated fitness app and start moving. Fawaz did reach his target, he is now cane-less and his proud movements show admirable strength.

Today, Fawaz utilizes his strong social media presence, along with his newly yet hardly-earned knowledge to motivate his followers. His story purely communicates the notion that anyone is capable of doing anything — you just need to make a decision. “Deciding is the hardest step,” he told bazaar.

No decision is made without accepting the commitment and challenges that go along with maintaining and adhering to any given decision. We always say that ‘it’s easier said than done,’ but Fawaz believes that acknowledging the difficulties is key.

He explained, “Anyone could workout for an hour a day, but it’s the remaining 23 hours that we always struggle with. I would say that paying attention to external and cultural influences would factor into your decision to stick to a healthy diet. At the end of the day, every individual’s lifestyle is different, and you always need to find a system that works. Take baby steps, like anything in life, this lifestyle is a habit built over time.”

In turning his life around, Fawaz is giving back to the local community by spreading his knowledge through opening a new gym with a fantastic team. Named ‘The Forge,’ the gym will focus on all aspects of a healthy lifestyle and will also offer rehabilitation, strength, conditioning, nutrition, gymnastics and calisthenics services. He concluded, “Don’t let anyone tell you that it is too late or that anything is impossible. Work hard and stay humble. Believe in yourself, as that is the first step toward success.”

How would your mother describe you in one word?

Restless.

How would you describe your mother in one word?

Proud.

What is the most ridiculous question you’ve ever been asked?

Do I Photoshop my pictures?

What is your theme song?

“Lux Aeterna”, Requiem For A Dream.

What word in the English or Arabic language do you wish you had invented?

Handstand.

Where would you like to live? What is your dream retirement location?

Swiss Alps.

What is the first famous quote that comes to your mind?

“I am the wisest man alive; for I know one thing, and that is that I know nothing.” –Socrates.

What animal best describes the kind of partner you’d be interested in?

Wolf.

What do you miss about your childhood?

Fearlessness.

If you could change your name, what would you change it to?

I would not change it.

Describe your handshake in one word?

Relaxed.

What is the toughest part of your character?

Stubbornness.

Who is your favorite historical figure?

Cleisthenes.

What in the world do you least desire?

War.

What do you think is lacking in the world, which if there was more of would make the world a better place?

Understanding.

Why do you think most girls/guys like you?

Not sure.

Finish this sentence: “Happiness is (a thing called)…”

Being content.

If you’re looking to get motivated about your health, or have any questions to ask Fawaz, follow him on Instagram @fitnessfreakq8.