It’s hard to remember a time when Mat Fraser wasn’t dominating the fitness scene, but like all of us, he had to start somewhere. His journey to the top is not unlike his competitors’: it has taken endless hard work, dedication, and the strength to push through the hard times.

We did a little homework and scrolled back through his Instagram posts — way back — and there are a few in particular that really stood out. Here he is at 13 years old, snatching 50kg in the 62kg weight class. This was 2003. Look at that buzz cut!

A post shared by Mathew Fraser (@mathewfras) on Oct 23, 2014 at 9:50am PDT

If you’ve followed Fraser over the years, you’ve probably heard him talk about the back injury that eventually required surgery. This was in 2009. Yes, the man who once suffered a broken back has now won the CrossFit Games three times.

A post shared by Mathew Fraser (@mathewfras) on Jun 26, 2014 at 9:05am PDT

Fraser showed talent in the sport from the word go. Here he is at his first competition, back in 2012. He walked away with $1,000.

A post shared by Mathew Fraser (@mathewfras) on Nov 6, 2015 at 3:16pm PST

The pros make it look so easy that we tend to forget the years of literal blood, sweat, and tears they put into their sport. Fraser has come a long way, and it goes without saying his journey has inspired all of us.

Main image: Mat Fraser/Instagram