Humberto García Garnica: Legendary Mexican Bodybuilder
Humberto García Garnica (born March 25, 1941, in Mexico City) is one of Mexico’s most celebrated bodybuilders. Known for his dedication, discipline, and expertise in nutrition, García became a three-time Mr. México champion, winning Mr. México Junior 1959, Mr. México Amateur 1964, and Mr. México Professional 1967.
Early Life and Start in Bodybuilding
García began training at the age of 15 in Mexico City gyms such as Balneario Olímpico and Super Gimnasio on Paseo de la Reforma, where he learned advanced techniques for building muscle and achieving definition. His early involvement in bodybuilding also included performing in operas and working as a fitness instructor to support his family.
Mentorship by Vince Gironda
In 1964, García trained under the legendary Vince Gironda, who taught him innovative workout routines and advanced nutritional strategies, including eating six small meals a day and eliminating starches and sugars. These methods helped him achieve the Mr. México Amateur 1964 title and later Mr. México Professional 1967.
Pioneer of Circuit Training and PHA Method
Humberto García introduced Mexico and Latin America to the Peripheral Heart Action (PHA) training system, also known as Circuit Training, popularized by Bob Gajda in the U.S. This method alternates exercises for upper and lower body to improve blood circulation, build strength, enhance endurance, and achieve faster muscle definition with shorter workouts.
Contributions to Nutrition and Supplements
Graduating in Chemical Engineering from UNAM, García developed natural dietary supplements such as Protoliber and Proteína 80, using desiccated beef liver and egg albumin to enhance physical performance and cellular nutrition. His work emphasized natural ingredients, avoiding added sugars and synthetic substances, decades ahead of global nutrition trends.
Muscle Power Magazine and Promotion of Bodybuilding
In 1986, García acquired Muscle Power, Mexico’s leading bodybuilding magazine. As editor, he promoted safe training routines, proper nutrition, and female participation in bodybuilding. The magazine became a reference point for athletes across Mexico and Latin America for over five decades.
Trainer and Mentor of Athletes
Humberto García trained numerous celebrities and athletes, including actor Jorge Rivero, and developed the Reengineering of Training concept, inspired by quality control and efficiency principles applied to sports.
Legacy
Humberto García Garnica is remembered not only for his titles and achievements but also as a mentor, innovator, and promoter of natural nutrition and modern training methods that influenced bodybuilding in Mexico and Latin America.
