Keith Kern to Compete at NPC Mother Lode in Reno
The 47-year-old fitness owner will take the stage on October 17, 2026, for the national-qualifying bodybuilding event.
Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Body Building
Live Poll
Do you believe it is possible to maintain peak physical performance throughout your 40s and 50s?
Redwood City resident Keith Kern is set to compete in the NPC Mother Lode bodybuilding show in Reno on October 17, 2026. The 47-year-old athlete will enter the Men's Physique and Masters 45+ categories.
Why it matters
The competition serves as a national-qualifying stage where Kern hopes to earn a professional bodybuilding card. He intends to demonstrate high-level athletic performance for athletes in their 40s.
Kern enters the competition weighing 165 pounds with 3% body fat following a strict 20-week training cycle. His regimen includes lifting five times weekly for up to 2 hours per session supplemented by daily cardio.
The players
Keith Kern
He is a 47-year-old gym owner and competitive bodybuilder who operates ObstaCourse Fitness in Redwood City.
The details
Kern, who owns ObstaCourse Fitness in Redwood City, began his transition to competitive bodybuilding in 2022. He previously demonstrated success on the circuit by placing first in two categories at the Ace of Stage competition.
Timeline
2017: Keith Kern started ObstaCourse Fitness.
2022: Kern began his transition to bodybuilding.
October 16, 2026: Kern travels to Reno.
October 17, 2026: NPC Mother Lode competition occurs.
Season Trajectory
Kern's appearance at this national-qualifying event represents a critical step in his path toward securing a professional card. His performance will dictate his standing and potential for future professional qualification before he turns 50.
Kern competes in the Men's Physique and Masters 45+ categories, where judges evaluate muscle definition, symmetry, and presentation. His qualification status depends on his final placement at this specific national-qualifying show.
The takeaway
Maintaining peak physical condition in later years requires rigorous discipline and long-term planning. Kern's approach involves a consistent 20-week cycle that balances intense weight training with daily cardiovascular exercise.
Further reading
Find more local coverage on the Body Building page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Redwood City Pulse.
Live Poll
Do you believe it is possible to maintain peak physical performance throughout your 40s and 50s?
