Rory Koonce Jr.

Rory Koonce Jr.


Biography

Rory Koonce Jr., known as “The Stone PowerHouse,” has lived a life that defies limitations. Born on April 30, 1988, in Staten Island, New York, Rory entered the world facing a challenge that would shape his remarkable journey. Weighing only 1 lb 13 Oz at birth and diagnosed with cerebral palsy, doctors predicted a future devoid of walking, speaking, or using his left side. Yet, Rory’s spirit was indomitable, and from an early age, he defied expectations.

At the age of 6, Rory’s determination led him to climb walls and operate light switches. By 8, he recognized the absence of individuals like himself in the spotlight of pushing physical boundaries. This realization became the catalyst for Rory’s unwavering ambition – to uncover the extent of his own potential.

Commencing training at the tender age of 8 in Chinese goju, Rory’s journey to challenge his limitations had begun. At 10, he embarked on an extraordinary feat – learning to walk with a walker. This milestone coincided with the birth of his younger brother, marking the emergence of a resilient bond between them.

Now at 35 years old, Rory’s life is a testament to the power of determination and a relentless pursuit of excellence. A world champion in wheelchair track, skeet shooting, bowling, baseball, and basketball, Rory is a three-time world powerlifting champion and record holder. He is a multi-time bodybuilding champion, including a two-time natural Mr. Olympia and the reigning NPC middleweight National bodybuilding champion.

Armed with three master’s degrees in personal training, health and wellness, and biomechanics, Rory’s expertise is expansive. He is a certified metabolic conditioning coach, sports nutritionist, herbalist, and close-quarter combat specialist. His presence graced the pages of esteemed publications like Muscle and Fitness and Inside Fitness Magazine.

As a wellness coach, Rory inspires individuals to transcend their limits and push the boundaries of what they believe is possible. His journey epitomizes resilience, a commitment to excellence, and the profound impact one can make on the world.

Q&A'S

  • What happened? Why are you in a Wheelchair?

    I was born prematurely, arriving at just 36 weeks gestation, or six months. This early arrival led to my diagnosis of cerebral palsy, a neurological disorder affecting muscle coordination and body movement. Despite the challenges posed by cerebral palsy, I have embraced a life of remarkable accomplishments, pushing my own boundaries and inspiring others along the way.

  • Why did you get started?

    At the age of 8, I observed iconic figures like Arnold Schwarzenegger and Frank Zane who pushed the human body's limits. Yet, I noticed a lack of representation for individuals like me with cerebral palsy. This ignited a curiosity within me – I wanted to explore how far I could push my own body's limitations.

  • What made you want to compete?

    In 2009, I was a world championship powerlifter, and Nick Scott reached out to me about transitioning to wheelchair bodybuilding. Although I wasn't initially ready for the shift, in 2011, I embraced bodybuilding, competing in my first show with INBA/PNBA, where I became the natural Mr. Olympia champion. Transitioning to the NPC in 2020, I secured my position as a two-time middleweight champion.

  • How did you go about doing it?

    Following my accomplishments across various sports, I returned to my first love – bodybuilding. In 2015, I discovered the INBA/PNBA and their physically challenged seated division. I competed from 2016 to 2017, securing wins and the natural Mr. Olympia championship.

  • What motivates you?

    My motivation stems from inspiring people from all walks of life. I aim to demonstrate that the realm of possibilities extends far beyond the physical, inspiring others to overcome adversity.

  • What suggestions or tips do you have for other?

    Stay dedicated and focused, regardless of life's challenges. Persevere even when the world seems against you, and always acknowledge the divine role in your journey.


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