The Local’s Hottest was lucky enough to sit down with one of Hampton Roads’ hottest male models and discover why he became a model, what pisses him off in the gym and how he’s kept his dating options open for someone who can salsa.
Charles Hamilton was born in Monroe, Michigan and made the smart decision of staying in Hampton Roads after serving his time locally in the U.S. Navy. Beyond the camera, Hamilton can be found managing at Newport News’ OneLife Fitness and around town with friends, but, as you will see - nothing holds Hamilton back, from modeling to movies; he finds relief in taking risks and living life.
TLH: So, did one day watch Zoolander and say, “I want to be a model,” or was this always in the back of your mind?
CH: I never planned on being a model, I enjoyed the gym but never expected to spend this much time in one. I played with the idea of modeling a little bit and had a couple photo shoots with some awesome photographers, then went to ODU for a couple semesters. Decided I wanted to try to get more involved with modeling so started working at Onelife Fitness in Newport News. I figured, what better way to stay healthy then be around people that are always motivated to achieve a goal?
TLH: It can’t be easy keeping the ‘Model Look’ - what keeps you motivated?
CH: I was taken under the wing of a real close friend we call the Rhino (his nickname isn't because he's small), but he trained with me, and after a few months of getting my diet right and working out I dropped 50 pounds and got in the best shape of my life. Also most importantly can't forget about keeping my faith strong, Been through some dire times where it has been easy to not have full sight of things, but keeping God in my heart and mind has kept me being the person I am today.
TLH: So looking back already on where you started to current; what do you think of your progress?
CH: It's hard to get where you want to be, but very easy to to fall behind if you don't keep up with a workout and diet program. Also, ‘diet’ is a word used when it is something new to you, but sooner or later it becomes for of a lifestyle instead of a over used term.
TLH: At our office, we are always on-the-go - is there still hope for us?!
CH: Make your own meals for the day, It's a lot easier and healthier to go to the store and make your meals to go. You can control your intake and what your putting inside of your body instead of hitting the fast food chains when your hungry.
TLH: Speaking of intake and easy, are there any special girls in your world right now?
CH: I'm single. I've done the dating thing and really enjoyed it. I had the chance to meet some amazing women and make some wonderful friends. But as of right now, I'm keeping my options open to see where my path leads me.
TLH: So what’s it going to take to ‘woo’ one of the local’s hottest models?
CH: I've been wanting to learn how to Salsa or do the Tango, so I think a great dinner with some passionate dancing would be a great starter to the night, then after that the possibilities are endless.
TLH: Can we film that night in it’s entirety? It’s one quick way to become a celebrity?
CH: ………
TLH: Right, so moving on, what is by far the most embarrassing moment to happen to you in the gym?
CH: This question would have to be asked, I've had my fare share but I'll go with - my shorts ripping right through the seam when I use to free flow it.. Lesson learned!
TLH: Commando for the win! You think someone will use that against you ten years from now?
CH: My goal is to be doing film and more photo shoots, so you never know!
TLH: Managing at a gym, you’ve dealt with some...interesting people? What pisses you off the most?
CH: People using the gym as a social club, nothing bothers someone more at the gym then people standing by equipment having conversation or being in your zone and having someone coming up to you and start talking.
TLH: ...So don’t gossip about what Britney wore last night at the party?
CH: Go to the gym to workout your body, not your mouth… hahaha just sayin’.
TLH: Any advice for people who have similar goals?
CH: It's known that we are our own worst critic. I've seen where I've been and what it's taken for me to get to where I'm at. I don't want to be back there, but instead I want to constantly try to improve, There is always(!) room for improvement. Some steps for it are just longer and harder than others.
To keep up with Charles, follow his progress on Facebook at: Facebook.com/CharlesHamilton
-Chase Skylar, Editor
