That’s right, actor & martial arts master Taimak from the classic movie The Last Dragon turned 50! He still has that glow! For many of us who have seen the cult classic, The Last Dragon, starring Taimak Guarriello, the “Glow” reminds of how we often marveled at Taimak’s agility and chiseled physique. Cast by Motown legend Berry Gordy in the lead role, Taimak played the unforgettable Bruce Leroy, the Bruce Lee wannabe in search of “The Glow.”
Taimak has also appeared in over a dozen plays, including Roadhouse in 2004 in New York City, playing the notable role of Dalton in this rendition of Patrick Swayzes 80’s cult classic.
As martial arts choreographer and trainer, Taimak has worked with Madonna and with the rock group Bush. He has guest starred on several television shows, including Ally McBeal, A Different World and Third Watch, just to name a few. Last year, he developed a wellness program for at risk children called Unfolding Dreams. He delivers the seminar in at risk communities nationwide.
Taimak is also a fitness expert that has helped literally thousands get in shape with his fitness DVD called Create the Perfect Package.
BlackDoctor.org recently sat down with Taimak to get his tips on how he continues to look young and remain healthy.
BASIC INFORMATION
Name: Taimak Guarriello
Birthplace: Born in Los Angeles, raised in New York
Birth date: June 27, 1964
You’ve seen him/her in: The starring role of “Bruce LeRoy” in The Last Dragon.
CURRENT PROJECT:
Filming The Last Dragon Part II
BDO: What is the best health tip you ever received?
Taimak: The best health tip that I’ve ever received states that “What’s good for one person is not always good for another.” People have different body types, various allergies and other circumstances that may cause one person to have different dietary needs. Another great health tip that I can pass along to your readers is to pay attention to the foods you eat. Healthy eating and nutrition is half the battle in creating a healthy lifestyle. Many foods have chemicals and elements that prove to be detrimental to the body. It’s important to read your food labels and do research to discern what’s best for you.
BDO: What’s your biggest struggle/temptation to remain a healthy lifestyle?
Taimak: Fitness and health have always come natural for me at a young age, so food temptations were not such a big problem for me. The biggest struggle that I now have is the mental aspect of health—being able to deal with stress and pressures of life and making sure that doesn’t negatively affect me. Many people don’t realize that our mental truly does affect our physical. I counteract the negative mental strains with meditation and affirmations.
BDO: What would you say is your greatest health accomplishment?
Taimak: Being almost 46 years old, I’m in the best shape of my life, even better than I was when starring in The Last Dragon. As you get older, your priorities change. When I was younger, I wanted to have a huge chest or biceps. Now, it’s more about remaining healthy, being able to run, exercise, and maintain a healthy lifestyle. One of my most recent biggest achievements is that I completed the 26.2 mile New York marathon last year. It was such a thrill running through all five boroughs and crossing the finish line.
BDO: Name one exercise that when you do it, it doesn’t feel like exercise?
Taimak: Strength conditioning and my normal exercise routine have been a part of my life for so long that its just a part of me—its who I am.
BDO: Name one health condition that’s prevalent in your family, and how you work to keep it in check?
Taimak: Various heart conditions have struck some close to me. That is one reason why I’m such an advocate for creating a healthy lifestyle when you’re young so that it can be a part of you and grow with you as you grow.
BDO: In your pursuit of achievement, what keeps you going?
Taimak: The love of my family, friends, and fans keeps going daily. They are my base and my support
Taimak’s fitness DVD, electrochemistry products and youth programs can be found on www.dynasty8.com or www.unfoldingdream.org
