Bury St Edmunds bodybuilder Matthew Seddon returns after seven-year break to win national NAC title

A 38-year-old bodybuilder from Suffolk has returned to win a national title after taking a seven-year break to spend time raising his children.

Matthew Seddon, of Bury St Edmunds, began bodybuilding when he was 18 and over the past two decades has been to NABBA (National Amateur Body-Builders’ Association) Britain Finals, world championships and more.

Before returning to competing this year, Matthew’s last show came in 2017 where he placed fifth out of 12 people for NABBA’s Mr Universe competition in the short class (up to 165cm) category.

Last month, he won the NAC’s Mr UK in the short class category, despite not competing for seven years.

“It felt really nice to be back competing and after such a long time away from competitions it felt amazing to win a big one,” Matthew said.

“I was a bit surprised but I know I’ve put in the work and I’ve still been training hard.”

“Bodybuilding has become massive over the last few years which surprised me. It’s a demanding sport, it’s gruelling stuff, but I feel great and there’s just not many things quite like it.”

Matthew is now engaged to his partner Rachel and has three children, Emily, 12, Leonidas, 7, and Rex, 5.

He trains five times a week at Fitta Bodies in Bury and is thankful to the gym owner, Edward Selsby, who encouraged him to get involved with competing at shows in the first place.

“I wouldn’t have all my trophies if it wasn’t for Edward and I’m so grateful and thankful to him for all of his help.

“He sorted my travelling and expenses for going to all these places for events and once you start doing a couple shows, you really kind of enjoy it.

“My family have been incredible too and they’re very supportive. Rachel is great and I couldn’t do this without her.

“If any local businesses want to support and sponsor me then please feel free to get in touch as it is quite an expensive sport due to the large quantity of food that has to be eaten.”