Read a letter from Mr. Anello to you the fan

ASL: I would like to thank you for allowing us the opportunity to learn more about you. I would also like to note that you are the twentieth inductee into American Strength Legends website. Congratulations.

Anello: Thank you very much. I am honored.

ASL: Would you care to share with us some statistical and biographical information?

Anello: My name is Vince Anello. I am fifty-one years old. I was born on September 2nd, 1947. I am single with no children and have a B.S. My best official squat was 750 pounds. I have done 750 pounds for three reps in the gym. My best gym bench press was 500 pounds without a shirt. I was able to do 485 pounds in competition. My best official deadlift was 821 pounds. I once did 880 pounds in competition.

ASL: Please tell everyone about your business Anello Fitness?

Anello: I felt the need to approach the science of personal fitness training in a practical manner. I actually show trainers how to train clients with real life training scenarios and diversified goals. Our course is fun, safe and result producing. I demonstrate proper training techniques for the entry level client, the elite bodybuilder and powerlifter. I also focus on all age groups. For more information about Anello Fitness you can visit my company web page Anellosystems.com

ASL: Were you always and big and strong as you are now? When did you start lifting and competing? Did you play any sports as a kid or in college if you went?

Anello: I started training in high school for remedial work on a football injury. I also wrestled in high school. I was a freestyle and Greco-Roman wrestler in the AAU and participated in boxing.

ASL: Who were your heroes/idols when you were growing up?

Anello: When I was a youngster, I used to write letters to John Grimmick for advice. Another one of my bodybuilding heroes was Bill Pearl. I followed the deadlifting routines of the legendary Bob Peoples.

ASL: Could you name some powerlifting accomplishments or feats of strength that you have done?

Anello: I use to have a strength act where I blew up hot water bottles, bent bars, and broke cinder blocks with my hands.

ASL: Some have called you "Mister Deadlift" because of your truly amazing deadlifting ability. What's the secret?

Anello: My biggest secret in the deadlift was my pride in it. The deadlift is more a mental lift than the other lifts. I simply was unwilling to imagine myself letting anyone out deadlift me.

ASL: What was your typical training regimen during your competitive years?

Anello: During my competitive days, I would train the squat and the bench press twice per week. One heavy day, and one light day. I would train the deadlift once per week. I always train the squat and deadlift on the same day. The rationale being you must squat and deadlift on the same day in a contest.

ASL: When we met at the York Barbell Hall of Fame, you still looked like you were in top condition, do you still compete? If not, have you ever thought of staging a comeback?

Anello: I still give lifting exhibitions on occasion. I really have not thought about a comeback. I would rather concentrate my efforts on building my business and helping others reach their goals.

ASL: What was it like to be at the York Barbell Strength Spectacular weekend for your much deserved induction into the weightlifting hall of fame?

Anello: Being inducted into the York Barbell Hall of Fame has got to be ranked as one of the most memorable days of my life. It gave me the greatest sense of satisfaction and accomplishment that I have ever felt. It was comparable to taking all my world championships and putting them into one day, and one event.

ASL: What do think of today's powerlifting and the overall health of the sport in general?

Anello: I would like to see all the federations consolidate into one family unit again. Powerlifters make up a small percentage of the population as a whole. I feel we must stick together if we want to thrive and grow as a sport.

ASL: Of your five world championships, which one sticks out in your mind the most and why?

Anello: I cherish all of my world championships equally. I did however enjoy the travel. Australia and Finland were among my favorites. I miss the thrill of lifting in competitions, but most of all I miss seeing the many cherished friends from all over the world. I will also I forever cherish my induction into the York Barbell Hall of Fame. It was a tribute to all my world championships.

ASL: Is there any message or greeting you would like to give your many, many fans out there?

Anello: To all of my brothers and sisters in strength, I love you all. You are part of the greatest sport in the world.

ASL: Again thank you for the opportunity.

Anello: Thank you.