Muscle Chemistry Archive
How This Ryan Terry Workout Can Greatly Improve Your Physique
This workout from Ryan Terry will provide for those desired gains you want most and a physique others will envy.
Ryan Terry is a bodybuilder and model with an absolutely shredded physique. As a result of hard work and sheer determination to be the best, matched by a competitive side that fuels this work ethic, he has stood next to some of the greats and his passion is undeniably inspiring.
Too often do we seek to find the best workout around. It can be challenging to know which workouts are right for us, and with so many exercises and influencers claiming to have the secret weapon, knowing who to trust and listen to can only add to that challenge. Taking advice from pro bodybuilders and those athletes we look up to can be great, for they’ve done it all before and are living proof of what can happen when you put your mind to it.
Ryan Terry has proved he can stand tall against the best and with his work ethic as one to most certainly envy, he holds clout in the workout world for the way he carries himself and the way he stays true to the work to see results.
Full Name: Ryan Terry
Weight
Height
Date Of Birth
185-195 lbs.
5’10’’
11/17/1988
Profession
Era
Nationality
Bodybuilder, Model
2010
British
Ryan Terry has appeared in a number of commercials and fitness magazines, showing off his absolutely shredded physique. He became Mr. International and Mr. Great Britain in 2010 and took the jump into bodybuilding becoming the first ever to win Men’s Physique at the UKBFF championships from the United Kingdom. He has only continued his success and is one to pay attention to as he is most definitely fun to watch.
About Ryan Terry
At a young age, Ryan began going to the gym and as the years went on, began to see great progress. Eventually, he would decide to compete in bodybuilding contests and realized he’d found a passion. What started as a way to build confidence became a career and lifelong pursuit for greatness. He would soon start winning competitions and began standing amongst some of the best in the world. Simultaneously, calls started to come in for him to model for them, and his career as a fitness model would soon take off as well. He realized fairly quickly that this would be lucrative and fulfilling and has dedicated his life to his pursuit of building the best physique that he can.
Ryan Terry Training Routine
This workout routine from Ryan is a great balance of volume and intensity. By working your muscles differently, you force them to react to different amounts of stimulation to see the growth you want most. For Ryan, it’s about the entire process of the workout, not just the end result, and knowing that these changes take time can help your mindset especially when this workout starts to get a bit grueling. This workout is one to certainly help with your own gains as you seek only the best for yourself and your physique.
Day 1: Back
Exercises
Sets
Reps
Pull Ups
3
10
Wide Grip Pulldowns
3
10
Close Grip Seated Rows
3
12
Lat Pulldowns
3
12
Bent Over Rows with Barbell
3
8
Deadlifts
3
8
Day 2: Shoulders & Abs
Exercises
Sets
Reps
Lateral Raise
3
12
Overhead Press
3
10
Front Raises
3
12
Rear Delts on Cables
3
10
Shrugs
3
15
Rear Shrugs
3
10
Sit Ups
3
20
Side Oblique Twists
3
20
Weighted Crunches
3
20
Day 3: Legs
Exercises
Sets
Reps
Back Squats
3
8
Hack Squats
3
8
Leg Press
3
10
Leg Extensions
3
10
Lunges
3
12
Seated Calf Raises
3
12
Single-Leg Calf Raises
3
12
Day 4: Chest & Abs
Exercises
Sets
Reps
Incline Barbell Press
3
10
Dumbbell Press
3
10
Cable Flys
3
12
Incline Flys
3
12
Hanging Leg Raises
3
15
Crunches
3
15
Bicycles
3
15
Day 5: Arms
Exercises
Sets
Reps
Triceps Dips
3
15
Single Arm Pushdowns
3
10
EZ Bar Curls
3
12
Alternating Dumbbell Curls
3
12
Hammer Curls
3
10
Skullcrushers
3
10
Featured Supplement
When it comes to building up a nice physique, it is important to have a solid supplementation routine behind you to assist with any and all of your goals. Whether that be a protein supplement to assist with growth and recovery post-workout, or a BCAA to help you push past fatigue and aid in recovery for those intra-workout needs, these products can only enhance what you want to see most out of your training and performance. For those struggling to lose that stubborn belly fat, a fat burner can definitely be a great choice to boost metabolism and increase energy.
But what about those pre-workout needs? A good pre-workout supplement is exactly what you need to see great gains and Kaged Muscle has a great product for you.
Kaged Muscle Pre-Kaged
Use code GENIRON1O for 10% off!
Kaged Muscle Pre-Kaged is great for those looking to increase performance and intensity with a high-quality pre-workout. Great ingredients and a quality blend make this unstoppable for your pre-workouts needs.
Increase the performance and intensity of your workout with this high quality pre-workout powder available from Kaged Muscle. Kaged Muscle Pre-Kaged is unmatched in terms of ingredient quality and synthesis of the blend of proteins. Kaged Muscle lab tests every batch to make sure each is fully loaded as advertised — 274 mg pure caffeine, 2 g taurine, 6.5 g fermented BCAAs, 6.5 g pure l-citrulline, and 2 g of their patented betapower blend. It’s an unbeatable combination that is guaranteed to supercharge any workout with great pre-workout ingredients from supplements to increase muscle and promote weight loss.
Price: $39.99
Use code GENIRON10 to save 10%! Check out our individual review for Kaged Muscle Pre-Kaged here!
Check out our list of the Best Pre-Workout Supplements for more great products!
Wrap Up
This workout from Ryan Terry is one to fire up your muscles so they grow to allow for your physique to start to take shape. With great exercises and a solid plan, those body composition goals are closer than you think and can be game changers for your entire routine. With the right supplements behind you, your body will thank you for giving it great nutrients to thrive at a high level while still working wonders for all your gains. Give this workout from Ryan Terry a try and see what it can do for those desired physique goals.
Let us know what you think in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
*Images courtesy of Ryan Terry
Samir Bannout Shares Old School Stories Of Gold’s Gym And Arnold Schwarzenegger
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Samir Bannout talks about first coming to America, Gold’s Gym, and some early stories he’s heard of Arnold Schwarzenegger.
Samir Bannout is a bodybuilder who came into his prime during the tail end of the Golden Era of bodybuilding. He’s also a bodybuilder who lived the American dream similar to athletes like Franco Columbu and Arnold Schwarzenegger. He came to the US with a passion for bodybuilding and became a superstar and Olympia champion. So of course, he has some amazing first and second hand stories of the Golden Era of the sport. In our latest GI Exclusive interview, Samir Bannout shares stories about coming to America, Gold’s Gym, and Arnold Schwarzenegger.
Bodybuilding is a very different sport today than it was in the Golden Era. The core elements of the sport remain of course but it is now an entire business model compared to the fledgling niche sport it was in the past. Many bodybuilding fans today romanticize the Golden Era. A time when Gold’s Gym was an iconic location and not a business chain. A time when Arnold Schwarzenegger was a bodybuilding champion and not a politician or action star. A time before social media and a time when Joe Weider was still alive.
That’s why we asked Samir Bannout to tell us some stories from his time as a bodybuilder coming to America and rising in the ranks. Samir Bannout was present for the tail end of the Golden Era. He saw Arnold Schwarzenegger and other greats. He trained at Gold’s Gym and personally knew Joe Gold. He also made connections with individuals who were there from the very beginning.
Bannout describes reading the famous bodybuilding magazines in Lebanon and dreaming of becoming a bodybuilder in America. He saw how Joe Weider inspired athletes like Arnold Schwarzenegger to the USA. So Samir Bannout headed out to the United States. He landed in Michigan originally but eventually had an opportunity to meet Joe Weider. That convinced him to move the California and enter the Mecca of bodybuilding.
Samir Bannout describes it as a dream. He made it out to California and Gold’s Gym in 1978. He describes it as coming there just in time. It was the tail end of the Golden Era and he was able to meet Joe Gold, get a lifetime free membership, and that changed everything. He describes himself as a kid in a candy store.
Samir Bannout also describes meeting a man named Art Seller. This was the man who first picked up Arnold Schwarzenegger from the airport when he arrived in Los Angeles. Bannout ended up becoming close friends with Seller and learned of wonderful early stories about Schwarzenegger. During our interview – he shares a short but funny story of Schwarzenegger when he first landed in America.
You can watch Samir Bannout talk about his journey to the US, his stories of Gold’s Gym and some funny short stories of Arnold Schwarzenegger in our latest GI Exclusive interview above. Bannout mentions that he wants to help continue spreading the passion and love and stories of bodybuilding’s past – especially as many of these greats start to recede into time. This video is a great little oral history keeping the past alive.
Best Pre-Workout Supplements For Muscle Building (Updated 2021)
Give yourself the best chance to improve performance and strength training with these great pre-workout supplements to see great muscle growth.
When it comes to building muscle and getting a great pump, pre-workout supplements are exactly what you need. As great training aids to improve performance and strength training, pre-workouts have the ability to provide enhanced focus, increased heart rate, weight loss, and insane muscle pumps to assist with those big lifts and really force our muscles to grow. While our busy schedules do tend to drain us, it is important we find that all important energy from somewhere and pre-workout supplements have just what you need to really make that happen for that desired improved performance, weight loss, and muscle building goals. Great for shedding fat, increasing muscle, and hitting you with amazing energy boosts, a pre-workout can enhance recovery and allow to bounce back faster for your next big lift.
We’ve put together a list of the Best Pre-Workout Supplements for 2021 so you can start to see the desired growth you want. You won’t be disappointed with the results from a good quality, highly effective pre-workout on your endurance, strength training, weight loss, and exercise performance for optimal training.
Best Pre-Workout Supplements For 2021
Best Pre-Workout Overall
Finding a great pre-workout may seem daunting but their are those out there that can cover all your bases. From energy, to muscle pumps, reduced fatigue, and more, Performance Lab has the top pre-workout for you.
Performance Lab Sport Pre
Stim Or No Stim
No Stim
Calories
0
Carbs
0g
Sugar
0g
Number Of Servings
20
Flavors
N/A
Best Way To Take
Take up to 6 capsules 30-45 minutes before your workout. Take on an empty stomach with 16-32 oz. of water
Performance Lab Sport Pre is another high quality pre-workout supplement available to the public at a great price point. Performance Lab Sport is one of the most rigorously scientifically vetted brands and all of their pre-workout products are free of synthetic additives (which might dehydrate the muscles), non-GMO, and vegan friendly. Sport “Pre” increases nitric oxide in the blood to support the oxygenation of muscles during workouts, improves endurance by hydrating the muscles, and enhances both anaerobic and aerobic exercise by increasing ATP reductase for the best benefits out of strength training, weight loss, and performance.
Performance Lab SPORT Pre is a high-quality pre-workout free of additives designed to increase nitric oxide in the blood, improve endurance by hydrating your muscles, and enhance strength training, weight loss, and overall performance.
Pros
Vegan friendly
Capsules are easy to take
Will help with strength and endurance
Caffeine free for those looking for no caffeine
Cons
Premium priced option
Only available through their site
Price: $39.00
Best For Strength
Of course, we want our pre-workout to work for our benefit in terms of strength. Transparent Labs has this amazing option to do just that.
Transparent Labs PreSeries BULK
Stim Or No Stim
Stim
Calories
0
Carbs
0g
Sugar
0g
Number Of Servings
30
Flavors
Orange, Green Apple, Sour Grape, Blue Raspberry, Tropical Punch
Best Way To Take
Mix 1 scoop with 16-24 fl. oz. of water 20-30 minutes before your workout.
Backed by science with clinically effective dosages, this pre-workout is most effective for those looking to increase in size and muscle mass. BULK contains 6,000 mg of citrulline malate, 4,000 mg of beta-alanine, 4,000 mg of BCAAs, and 2,500 mg of betaine to boost your workouts, blood flow, weight loss, and muscle growth, all in attempts to improve performance. BULK will reduce fatigue and increase your energy to give you a more impactful and longer lasting workout. Transparent Labs prides themselves on a 100% label and there are artificial additives, colorings, or preservatives to ruin this clean product.
Use code GENIRON1O for 10% off!
Transparent Labs PreSeries BULK is backed by science with clinically effective dosages to increase muscle size and mass. This pre-workout is perfect for reducing fatigue, aiding in muscle growth, and boosting energy levels for better overall performance.
Pros
High amount of citrulline malate for awesome pumps
Very clean ingredients for an honest product
From a reputable company in Transparent Labs
Cons
High in beta alanine
Premium priced option
Only available directly from their site
Price: $49.00
Check out our individual review for Transparent Labs PreSeries BULK here! Also, use the promo code GENIRON10 for 10% off!
Best Natural Ingredients For Energy
You deserve to have the best ingredients when it comes to your supplements and National Bodybuilding Co. seeks only the best for it’s pre-workout and other supplements.
National Bodybuilding Co. Stage Ready
Stim Or No Stim
Stim
Calories
0
Carbs
0g
Sugar
0g
Number Of Servings
30
Flavors
Fruit Punch
Best Way To Take
Take 1 scoop and mix with 8-12 fl. oz. of water.
National Bodybuilding Co. has a great pre-workout supplement called Stage Ready Pre-Workout which delivers quality muscle pumps, enhanced stamina, weight loss, and a solid boost of energy to really elevate your performance. With an advanced and effective blend, this pre-workout can hydrate and buffer muscle tissue, raise nitric oxide levels and blood flow, optimize ATP production, and boost neurotransmitter synthesis. With great ingredients and a clean formula, it is no wonder why National Bodybuilding Co. Stage Ready Pre-Workout won for Best Pre-Workout in GI Supplement Awards.
National Bodybuilding Co. Stage Ready is a great pre-workout to enhance quality muscle pumps, improved stamina, weight loss, and a real boost of energy to elevate performance. With an advanced blend and high-quality ingredients, this pre-workout is perfect for any workout.
Pros
An effective blend with solid benefits for muscle pumps, energy, and stamina
Patented ingredients and great taste
From a reputable company
Cons
Premium priced option
Only available directly from their site
Could use more beta alanine as a key ingredient
Price: $48.00
Check out our individual review for National Bodybuilding Co. Stage Ready here!
Best Stim Ingredients & Intensity
Having a pre-workout that can boost energy and intensity is huge and with the right stim ingredients, this can happen instantly. Enhanced has a great product to power you through any workout so you see the gains you want most.
Enhanced Ramy’s Rage Stim Reloaded
Stim Or No Stim
Stim
Calories
0
Carbs
0g
Sugar
0g
Number Of Servings
30
Flavors
Grape
Best Way To Take
Take 1 scoop 30 minutes before your workout with 8 oz. of water.
Ramy’s Rage Stim is different. It has a fully disclosed supplement facts panel, so you know exactly what you’re getting in each serving. Ramy’s Rage Stim contains full dosages of ingredients scientifically proven to boost energy levels, improve physical performance and enhance focus. Best of all, Ramy’s Rage Stim doesn’t contain mega dosages of caffeine so there is no crash. With a smart 8-stim matrix, all of your energy and focus enhancing needs are met with a great pre-workout. With 17 clinically dosed ingredients grouped into 4 synergistic matrixes, this pre-workout is perfect for boosting intensity.
Code GENIRON For 15% Off
Enhanced Ramy’s Rage Stim Reloaded is a smart 8-stim matrix to enhance energy and focus. A fully disclosed label provides transparency for their scientifically proven ingredients.
Pros
No crash
17 clinically dosed ingredients
Fully disclosed supplement facts panel
Novel stimulants like Dynamine, Theacrine, and Cocoabuterol
Cons
Only one flavor option
Price: $25.99
Use code GENIRON for 15% off your order!
Best Stim-Free Without Caffeine
With many pre-workouts loaded with stimulants, finding a great stim-free option can be hard. But Transparent Labs has made a stim-free product to still offer great benefits to your workouts.
Transparent Labs PreSeries Stim Free
Stim Or No Stim
No Stim
Calories
0
Carbs
0g
Sugar
0g
Number Of Servings
30
Flavors
Strawberry Lemonade, Tropical Punch, Orange, Sour Grape, Blue Raspberry, Green Apple
Best Way To Take
Mix 1 scoop with 12-16 fl. oz. of water 20-30 minutes before your workout.
Transparent Labs Stim-Free is an amazing option for those looking for stimulant free supplements for strength training, weight loss, and to improve performance. Containing key ingredients like citrulline malate and betaine, all of these ingredients are clinically dosed and effective for providing great gains. With a 100% transparent formula, this product is great for those who are intolerant to caffeine or other stimulants, or for those looking to cycle off of them. With 13 active ingredients all designed for enhanced focus and increasing lean muscle, you cannot go wrong with this great stim-free, non-caffeine option that will still enhance energy like other products.
Code GENIRON10 For 10% Off
Transparent Labs PreSeries Stim-Free is an amazing option for those looking for stimulant free supplements for strength training, weight loss, and improved performance. With key ingredients at effective dosages, this is a great pre-workout for anyone looking for stim-free options.
Pros
Great advantages while being stim-free
Perfect for those insensitive or looking to get off caffeine
Clean ingredients and advanced formula
Provides for energy and focus while decreasing muscle fatigue
Cons
Premium priced option
Only available directly through their site
Does not have caffeine or other stimulants for those looking
Price: $49.00
Use the promo code GENIRON10 for 10% off!
Best For Pumps
With quality muscle pumps being a staple benefit for pre-workout, Kaged Muscle took that and made sure their supplement gave you the best pumps around.
Kaged Muscle Pre-Kaged
Stim Or No Stim
Stim
Calories
15
Carbs
2g
Sugar
1g
Number Of Servings
20
Flavors
Berry Blast, Fruit Punch, Grape, Krisp Apple, Orange Kush, Pink Lemonade
Best Way To Take
Take one scoop with water before your workout.
Increase the performance and intensity of your workout with this high quality pre-workout powder available from Kaged Muscle. Kaged Muscle Pre-Kaged is unmatched in terms of ingredient quality and synthesis of the blend of proteins. Kaged Muscle lab tests every batch to make sure each is fully loaded as advertised — 274 mg pure caffeine, 2 g taurine, 6.5 g fermented BCAAs, 6.5 g pure l-citrulline, and 2 g of their patented betapower blend. It’s an unbeatable combination that is guaranteed to supercharge any workout with great pre-workout ingredients from supplements to increase muscle and promote weight loss.
Use code GENIRON1O for 10% off!
Kaged Muscle Pre-Kaged is great for those looking to increase performance and intensity with a high-quality pre-workout. Great ingredients and a quality blend make this unstoppable for your pre-workouts needs.
Pros
Contains BCAAs and has well-dosed ingredients
No artificial colors or flavors
Great taste
Cons
A bit expensive
Does contains sucralose, which is an artificial sweetener
Caffeine content may be high for those sensitive
Price: $39.99
Use code GENIRON10 to save 10%! Check out our individual review for Kaged Muscle Pre-Kaged here!
Best For Cutting
For those looking to lose weight and tone, a good pre-workout can help you get there. Transparent Labs made a solid formula to assist with all your cutting needs.
Transparent Labs PreSeries LEAN
Stim Or No Stim
Stim
Calories
0
Carbs
0g
Sugar
0g
Number Of Servings
30
Flavors
Sour Grape, Orange, Blue Raspberry, Tropical Punch, Strawberry Lemonade
Best Way To Take
Mix 1 scoop with 12-16 fl. oz. of water 20-30 minutes before your workout.
The perfect supplement for cutting, LEAN is great for those looking to target stubborn fat while keeping on that lean muscle. LEAN contains 6,000 mg of citrulline malate, 2,500 mg of betaine, 2,000 mg of BCAA, 1,500 mg of beta-alanine, and 600 mg of L-tyrosine to improve strength and muscle endurance, increase blood flow and nitric oxide levels, reduce fatigue, and improve memory. LEAN is great for those looking to slim down and encourage weight loss without losing that hard work done in the gym through your exercise performance from a great pre-workout powder with ingredients like citrulline malate and betaine.
Use code GENIRON1O for 10% off!
Transparent Labs PreSeries LEAN is perfect for those looking to target stubborn belly fat while still maintaining that hard-earned lean muscle. For those looking to slim down and lose weight, look no further than this great pre-workout with quality ingredients at effective dosages.
Pros
Well-dosed and third party tested
All-natural ingredients
Good for cutting and increasing strength and power
Cons
Premium priced option
Only available directly from their site
Does not have the greatest ingredients for fat loss
Price: $49.00
Use the promo code GENIRON10 for 10% off! Plus, check out our individual review for Transparent Labs PreSeries LEAN here!
Best For Women
Pre-workouts for women are great for helping you tackle any of your workouts needs. With certain ingredients and different doses, this is geared for all the needs of those female athletes.
Cira Nutrition Pre-Game
Stim Or No Stim
Stim
Calories
0
Carbs
0g
Sugar
0g
Number Of Servings
30
Flavors
Peach Bellini, Pink Candy
Best Way To Take
Mix 1 scoop with 6-8 fl. oz. of water 30-40 minutes before your workout.
Cira Nutrition Pre-Game is that pre-workout you need to give you more energy to perform harder, better, and faster. With great ingredients to increase energy, endurance, focus, weight loss, and muscle strength, this pre-workout has you covered with whatever your needs may be. Packed with all the essential ingredients to stand out as a top pre-workout for women, this supplement is what you want most for your pre-workout routine. With great flavors at an affordable price, you can’t go wrong with Pre-Game.
Cira Nutrition Pre-Game is a great pre-workout so you perform harder, better, and faster to get the most out of your workouts. Packed with great ingredients, this supplement stands out as one of the best for women.
Pros
Packed with essential pre-workout ingredients
Fully disclosed label
Great flavors and price
Cons
Does contain caffeine for those sensitive
Only available directly from their website
Price: $39.99
Best For Weight Loss
Losing weight is hard, but supplements like pre-workout can help immensely. With the right ingredients and a solid training plan, your desire to lose weight is just around the corner.
Transparent Labs PreSeries LEAN
Stim Or No Stim
Stim
Calories
0
Carbs
0g
Sugar
0g
Number Of Servings
30
Flavors
Sour Grape, Orange, Blue Raspberry, Tropical Punch, Strawberry Lemonade
Best Way To Take
Mix 1 scoop with 12-16 fl. oz. of water 20-30 minutes before your workout.
The perfect supplement for cutting, LEAN is great for those looking to target stubborn fat while keeping on that lean muscle. LEAN contains 6,000 mg of citrulline malate, 2,500 mg of betaine, 2,000 mg of BCAA, 1,500 mg of beta-alanine, and 600 mg of L-tyrosine to improve strength and muscle endurance, increase blood flow and nitric oxide levels, reduce fatigue, and improve memory. LEAN is great for those looking to slim down and encourage weight loss without losing that hard work done in the gym through your exercise performance from a great pre-workout powder with ingredients like citrulline malate and betaine.
Use code GENIRON1O for 10% off!
Transparent Labs PreSeries LEAN is perfect for those looking to target stubborn belly fat while still maintaining that hard-earned lean muscle. For those looking to slim down and lose weight, look no further than this great pre-workout with quality ingredients at effective dosages.
Pros
Well-dosed and third party tested
All-natural ingredients
Good for cutting and increasing strength and power
Cons
Premium priced option
Only available directly from their site
Does not have the greatest ingredients for fat loss
Price: $49.00
Use the promo code GENIRON10 for 10% off! Plus, check out our individual review for Transparent Labs PreSeries LEAN here!
Benefits Of Pre-Workout
The benefits of pre-workout should not be ignored for what they can do for your strength training and performance is incredible. Great tasting and safe to use, a good pre-workout supplement can:
Increase focus and energy: Provide for more intense workouts while being locked into every exercise so nothing interferes with a good workout (1).
Reduce fatigue: Allow for longer training sessions and calorie burn giving your body the fuel it needs from endurance and strength exercises while reducing muscle soreness and unwanted pain for improved performance.
Muscle pumps: Watch your strength and muscle gains flourish and allow blood to flow through your muscles.(2).
Enhanced recovery: Bounce back faster and promote more efficient growth while recovering more effectively for faster turn arounds.
Key Ingredients In Pre-Workout
Here are some key ingredients to look out for when choosing a pre-workout supplement:
Caffeine: Works to elevate energy so you can tackle any grueling workout while boosting focus and reaction time to improve performance. There are stim-free pre-workouts that work just as well (3).
Creatine: This will provide your muscles with fuel to boost athletic performance and strength training (4).
BCAAs: Great for promoting muscle protein synthesis, they can help with recovery and intra-workout needs (5).
Beta-Alanine: Works as a buffer for pH levels to push past fatigue that may strike.
L-Citrulline: Can boost nitric oxide while maintaining good blood flow for increased muscle pumps.
How We Decide
Choosing the right pre-workout can be difficult and with so many on the market, the choices do seem endless. With this list, we sought to bring the best to you by combing through all the nonsense pre-workouts to bring you the best around. We look at ingredients closely because many companies will put in ingredients you just don’t need. Quality of the brand and where they get ingredients from is also important because you deserve to have an honest company backing you up. Of course, price matters and since supplements can add up and be a real hit on the wallet, we sought to bring you top tier products at a reasonable and affordable price.
FAQ Section
What is the best pre-workout?
National Bodybuilding Co. Stage Ready. This pre-workout is a really high quality product designed to deliver pumps, enhanced stamina, promote weight loss, increase strength training, and provide solid energy for elevated performance. An advanced and effective formula is highly safe to use and is produced with clean ingredients from a reputable and top tier company in National Bodybuilding Co.
What does pre-workout do?
Pre-workout is designed to give you the edge for your strength training and performance. It will enhance energy and focus for more efficient workouts, increase your heart rate and get your blood pumping for better blood flow and weight loss, and increase muscle so you turn that unwanted fat into a shredded physique to have confidence in the effects.
Are there stimulant-free pre-workouts?
Yes! Since many people are sensitive to caffeine or just don’t want it in their daily routine for strength training, companies have created stim-free options to give you the same results without the caffeine.
Check out some amazing stim-free pre-workout supplements here!
Is pre-workout safe?
Pre-workouts are not monitored by the FDA but are safe for public use. Many contain caffeine, so for those sensitive it is something to be cautious of. Some potential side effects are dizziness, nausea, dehydration, and high blood pressure, but many of these come from the overload in caffeine for some. Also, many companies will have their products be third party tested to ensure quality pre-workout products for exercise performance.
When is the best time to take pre-workout?
It is ideal to take pre-workout 30 minutes before your strength training workout. This will ensure all of the ingredients will kick in so they work as effectively as possible for optimal effects and results. It is important to stay hydrated in the time in between your workout and during your workout for pre-workout can dehydrate you.
Wrap Up
Pre-workout supplements are great to use for those looking to build their muscle and really start to see that shredded physique unfold. With the power to increase energy, provide for great focus, promote pumps, and enhance recovery, a good quality and highly effective pre-workout will boost your gains to the next level. Check out our list above and see which one is right for you, for you won’t be disappointed with the results. A solid pre-workout can only add to your gains and those gains are what you want most. Give these products a try and really see what they can do for your gains. You won’t be disappointed with the results when you buckle down and get a good supplement to accompany you on your muscle building journey.
Generation Iron may receive commissions on purchases made through our links. See our disclosure page for more information.
Let us know what you think in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
References
Ellerbroek, Anya C.; Antonio, Jose (2019). “Effects of Pre-Workout Supplements on Strength, Endurance, and Mood”. (source)
Kedia, A.; Hofheins, J.; Habowski, S.; Ferrando, Arny; et al. (2014). “Effects of a Pre workout Supplement on Lean Mass, Muscular Performance, Subjective Workout Experience and Biomarkers of Safety”. (source)
McLellan, Tom M.; Caldwell, John A.; Lieberman, Harris R. (2016). “A review of caffeine’s effects on cognitive, physical and occupational performance”. (source)
Kreider, Richard B. (2003). “Effects of creatine supplementation on performance and training adaptations”. (source)
Negro, M.; Giardina, S.; Marzani, B.; Marzatico, F. (2008). “Branched-chain amino acid supplementation does not enhance athletic performance but affects muscle recovery and the immune system”. (source)
Unbound BYLD Hypertrophic Muscle Builder Review
This 3-in-1 builder is beyond average, and your sculpted physique is right at your grasp.
Product Overview
When it comes to building muscle, there seem to be countless ways to get this done. With people touting different supplements, workout routines, and magical diets, everyone claims to have that golden key to give you a sculpted physique others will envy. But the truth is, no fad diet or one single exercise will give you the desired gains you want most. You need a supplement designed for building muscle in an effective and efficient way because those average muscle building supplements and false claims just don’t cut it. Unbound BYLD is a hypertrophic muscle builder designed for this purpose only. With great ingredients and an advanced formula, you get a 3-in-1 builder without all the nonsense to really sculpt your physique.
Unbound is on a mission to help those self-starters get the gains they want most. They seek those who set the highest standards, not follow them, and whose demand for greatness is unparalleled by others. Unbound wants their athletes to be unequaled in a world of mediocrity and by designing and creating high quality supplements, they understand that those seeking to be the best, need the best when it comes to fueling their bodies and driving towards the top. A sister company to the amazing and top tier company NutraBio, their honesty and transparency shows through with every product.
Unbound BYLD is a hypertrophic muscle builder designed to boost your gains and spark serious muscle growth. With 5 powerful ingredients, this 3-in-1 builder is perfect for all your muscle building needs.
BYLD Highlights
Unbound BYLD is a hypertrophic muscle builder and all-around awesome muscle building supplement. Reigning high above your other run of the mill muscle building products, this supplement is for those looking to accept the challenge of sculpting and building an amazing physique for all to envy. A 3-in-1 builder, this is unlike any you have seen and is for those only willing to accept the challenge. With 5 powerful and clinically dosed ingredients, this formula is one to give you targeted results for growth so your muscle building goals are no longer random, but are indeed exactly where you want them.
Ingredients
Mediator 50P: Phosphatidic acid is a fat molecule that activates mTOR which drives muscle growth in humans. Along with resistance training, real benefits to strength and size can take place (1).
Proepicate: A flavanol found in certain foods, it has certain properties to inhibit myostatin, a protein that is found in skeletal muscle that stunts growth. It can also stimulate nitric oxide production and mitochondrial biogenesis which allows for better blood flow and nutrient delivery.
Laxosterone: A microencapsulated form of laxogenin, a plant steroid, this can regulate protein turnover, offer more positive nitrogen balance, and allow for better anabolic activity.
AstraGin: Allows for better bioavailability and absorption of key nutrients and can support better muscle growth and recovery (2).
Apigenin: A bioflavonoid found in plants, this can increase muscle protein synthesis through key players in the mTOR pathway.
Other Ingredients
Gelatin (capsule)
Number Of Ingredients
5
Number Of Servings
30
Serving Size
4 Capsules
Best Way To Take
Take 4 capsules on an empty stomach, or before training, to maximize the effects.
Price & Effectiveness
Unbound BYLD is that hypertrophic muscle builder much better than the rest. A 3-in-1 builder ensures you work on seeing those desired gains and a physique others will certainly envy. With 30 servings per container, 4 capsules will give you these great ingredients so you start seeing real results.
Pros
Clean, effective, and well-dosed ingredients
An advanced formula offers a better supplement than others like it
Great for seeing gains and a physique you want most
From an honest and reputable company in Unbound
Cons
Only available in retail stores
Four capsules may be a larger serving for some
Price: Unbound supplements are only available at brick and mortar retail stores. Check out their Where To Score finder to find the closest store to you!
Featured Athlete
Erik Ramirez
Erik Ramirez is an IFBB pro bodybuilder and Unbound athlete who uses their supplements to enhance his absolutely shredded aesthetic. With many competitions under his belt, he was crowned the 2015 North American Overall Champion and has competed in other events including the New York Pro, Toronto Pro, Tampa Pro 212, and the 2020 Chicago Pro Men’s Bodybuilding contest. Working with Unbound, Ramirez uses their high-quality supplements to fuel his workouts and recovery given their innovative formulas, clean ingredients, and advanced results for maximum gains.
Overall Value
Unbound BYLD is that hypertrophic muscle builder you need most to help achieve all of your muscle building and physique sculpting goals. A 3-in-1 formula is matched by 5 powerful ingredients to give you clinically backed and well dosed ingredients only. Those muscle building gains can often times seem random, but now, they don’t have to be. Unbound knows the needs of athletes and wants to design products that those hardcore and willing fitness folks will benefit from greatly. What you are really getting is a high quality muscle building supplement with awesome ingredients and a formula to see results. Check out Unbound BYLD today and see what this can do for all your gains.
Try Unbound BYLD Today
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*Images courtesy of Unbound and Envato
References
Willoughby, Darryn S. (2015). “mTORC1 Signaling-Activated Increases in Muscle Protein Synthesis induced by leucine and Phosphatidic Acid: A Brief Review”. (source)
Turck, Dominique; Castenmiller, Jacqueline; De Henauw, Stefaan; Hirsch-Ernst, Karen I.; et al. (2020). “Safety of a botanical extract derived from Panax notoginseng and Astragalus membranaceus (AstraGin) as a novel food pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2015/2283”. (source)
Roelly Winklaar Confirmed For Chicago Pro, Competitors List Revealed
Roelly Winklaar Has Been Confirmed For Chicago Pro as Competitors List is Revealed
It looks like the Chicago Pro got a whole lot more interesting. It looks like it’s been confirmed that Roelly Winklaar will participate at the show.
The official Chicago Pro competitors list was just released. Roelly Winklaar was one of the names on the list confirming his participation at the show. Winklaar will be facing off against other top pros like Hassan Mostafa who is still hungry for a spot at the 2021 Olympia. He will also have to face Maxx Charles who has been looking impressive as of late.
Full Competitors List
While many speculated that Roelly Winklaar would compete at the Arnold Classic, it appears that the veteran bodybuilder has decided to take part at the Chicago Pro. Both the Arnold Classic and the Chicago Pro can grant the winner a ticket to the 2021 Olympia. But rather than contend with all the other top level bodybuilders, Winklaar has decided to try his hand at the Chicago Pro.
It’s a smart play to say the least. While Roelly Winklaar has what it takes to contend against the best bodybuilders in the world at the Arnold Classic, he’ll have a greater chance at success at the Chicago Pro. It’s simply a matter of probabilities. If he wishes to contend with the best of the best at the Olympia, earning his spot with a win at the Chicago Pro makes all the sense in the world.
Roelly Winklaar has been looking pretty impressive in the lead up to the show. While it was unclear what show he would be competing in, Whnklaar has clearly been hard at work.
Intense Training
Roelly Winklaar has been putting in some overtime in his preparation. From how things appear, Winklaar is a shoe-in to win at the Chicago Pro and his training is no doubt giving him some increased confidence.
Now all that’s left is to see what Winklaar brings to the stage at the Chicago Pro. If the above update is any indication, we could see “The Beast” punch his ticket for the 2021 Olympia.
What do you think of Roelly Winklaar competing at the Chicago Pro?
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Managing Editor at Generation Iron, Jonathan Salmon is a writer, martial arts instructor, and geek culture enthusiast. Check out his YouTube, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and Sound Cloud for in-depth MMA analysis.
Check Out This Intense Lower Body Workout for Ripped Calves and Hams
Leg day. There. I said it.
Leg day can be one of the most challenging and often neglected aspects of being a bodybuilder. It’s confusing, it’s hard, and — let’s be honest — it wants what chest day has. Have you been training your legs for a long time but feel like your progress has stalled? Check out the intermediate lower body workout below for an excellent way to train your calves and hamstrings.
Please remember that this is an intermediate level workout intended for those who already have at least 1 – 2 years of serious strength training. We have a wide variety of leg workouts available here at Generation Iron to accommodate those who are just looking to get started.
How long should I be practicing this workout?
You can adjust the program to your level of comfort. Ideally, it should be performed for 8 weeks. However, if you’re stretched a little thin right now and don’t have that much time to get in a workout, you can modify it to be shorter and last for 6 weeks — though don’t expect incredible, long-lasting muscle to be built in that time.
Or, if you’re in a headspace where you’re really trying to motivate yourself, you can go harder and do it for 12 weeks. The most important thing is to make it work with however you’re currently working out, otherwise you won’t actually do it.
How often should I do it during the week?
You should cycle through lower body and upper body splits throughout the week however you feel most comfortable. Assuming you workout most or every day, you should consider doing this lower body workout two to four days every week, depending on how much you’re working out the other parts of your body.
Just try and match however much work you’re putting into your hams/quads with what you’re doing for your upper body and you’ll be fine. Also, make sure to take rest days in between those days so your muscles have a chance to heal.
Intermediate Leg Workout for Ripped Calves and Hams
Seated Leg Curl — 5 sets of 5 – 10 reps
Start off with a seated leg curl. Many of the muscle groups in the leg respond well to high intensity training rather than high endurance training, so it’s good to start strong and hit it hard.
Stiff Leg Deadlift — 5 sets of 5 – 10 reps
The stiff leg deadlift is an excellent modulation of the standard deadlift that really helps you feel the burn through the back of the leg and develop resistance in those muscles.
Standing Calf Raise — 5 sets of 8 – 12 reps
Moving into the calf portion of the workout, this is a great way to warm up that area of the body and build muscle.
Leg Press Calf Raise — 5 sets of 8 – 12 reps
A little bit more challenging than the standing calf raise, this helps build muscle in these groups by gradually increasing the intensity.
Donkey Calf Raise — 5 sets of 5 – 10 reps
This really encourages muscle growth in the lower leg and can be challenging at this point, so feel free to reduce the amount of sets/reps in this group to your comfort level.
Seated Calf Raise — 5 sets of 8 – 12 reps
Moving into the cool down period of the workout, this calf raise shouldn’t be skipped, since it builds the foundation for workouts to come.
Could This Chest Exercise Be Even Better Than The Bench?
Build up your chest with this awesome exercise.
Chest exercises are pretty obvious at this point. When most bodybuilders look to improve their chest development they focus on a handful of exercises that have been popularized over the years. For our money, the bench press and dumbbell flyes are two of the best exercises you can perform to build a massive and strong chest. At least that’s the school of thought from most trainers and experienced bodybuilders.
That’s not to say that bench press and flyes aren’t the answer to improving your chest game, but as the old saying goes there’s more than one, in this case two, ways to skin a cat. One exercise that could potentially prove to be a better chest exercise than the bench and flyes are dips.
Dips have been at times sited as a potentially damaging exercise for the shoulders by some uninformed fitness gurus, but the reality is that it can greatly improve chest development. We’d go as far to say that it may even be better than if not or equal to the bench press and flyes in its importance and usefulness to chiseling the chest. If you have any doubts, then just take a look at the reasons why you should substitute the bench every now and then.
1. It’s a faster option
Dips are great for the chest for a number of reasons, one of them being that the exercise isolates the chest muscles. The motion for performing the dip requires the user to push in a downward motion with the arms while lifting your body up. The shoulders are also engaged in this motion but are under far less stress when with the bench. Since it’s a bodyweight exercise it also requires more tension and strength from the chest muscles in order to perform the motion. All this combines to making quicker chest gains.
2. Build functional strength along with your chest
Like we mentioned before, the chest dip is a bodyweight exercise. The isolation works great for building muscle specifically in the chest. Besides that however is the fact that you must lift your own body through space which will ultimately translate to core strength. Posture is also important with this exercise.
You body must remain static, your legs must be held in the same position, preferably bent at the knee and crossed. This kind of posture ultimately engages the chest, abs, shoulders, and back, meaning you can get major gains in multiple areas. The body working in concert with other muscles means gaining functional strength for other endeavors, lifting or otherwise.
3. Widens the chest
Another great benefit from doing chest dips is the development in chest width. What separates dips from the bench press and dumbbell flyes is that you’re able to not only work the chest, but work the rest of your upper body as well. As we just mentioned before the dip can engage not only the chest, but the back as well. That includes the upper back as well.
The dip can build the lats up nicely which is the antagonistic muscle to the chest. When you work the antagonistic muscle it allows for better development of the opposite muscle, in this case the chest. All in all, the chest dip is a multifaceted exercise that can work wonders for your entire upper body.
Do you perform chest dips in the gym? Let us know in the comments below and be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook and Twitter.
Tribute to Multiple IFBB Professional League Champion Jenny Lynn-Powell
Tribute To Multiple IFBB Professional League Champion Jenny Lynn-Powell
It’s always sad when a former NPC or IFBB Professional League athlete passes away and even more so when it is before their time and they are a highly decorated 2-Time IFBB Figure Olympia Champion, 3-Time IFBB Figure International Champion and 2-Time champion of my own IFBB Pittsburgh Pro Figure.
What many people do not know is that Jenny Lynn was the inspiration for us to create FIGURE. Jenny earned her IFBB Pro qualification winning the Overall 2001 NPC USA Fitness Championships! How that came about is we had many NPC and IFBB Pro Fitness athlete’s who scored great in the physique round but truly did not have the skill set to perform a good Fitness Routine. Jenny Lynn was one of them and spoke about it herself and to our officials.
After much discussion, we created the Figure division for the NPC and IFBB Professional League and Jenny went on to win the Very First IFBB Pro Professional League contest, the 2003 IFBB Figure International at the Arnold Sports Festival! The rest, as they say, is history.
Thank You Jenny Lynn-Powell for being a catalyst for the sport and all Figure athletes owe you a debt of gratitude. I personally and the organizations send our heartfelt condolences to your family and friends.
Jim ManionNPC and IFBB Professional League President
Method Man Looks Extra Jacked During Chest and Biceps Training
Rapper and actor Clifford Smith Jr., better known as Method Man, has been pushing his training to new heights recently. He recently trained chest and biceps in the gym is looking like an absolute beast these days.
Method Man has dedicated himself to getting in his best physical condition. This is a version of the rapper we have never seen before, supremely focused to achieve a new level of fitness.
A member of the famous rap group the Wu-Tang Clan, Method Man has always been into maintaining his physique. But the past couple of years have shown that the rapper has been taking his training to the next level.
The hip hop legend has shown a dedication to growing not only his physique but his strength as well. The rapper has recently shown a proficiency and love of deadlifting.
But deadlifting isn’t the only exercise that the Power star has been attacking with gusto. He has also been working on his upper body with a diligence. Recently he looked super jacked while he was training biceps.
But that wasn’t the only upper body training the rapper showcased recently. He also pressed 100lb dumbbells in each hand for reps.
The rap legend is showing no signs of slowing down as he continues on his fitness journey. It’s truly an inspiration to see an individual at an older age still killing it in the gym.
What do you think of Method Man’s recent training?
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Managing Editor at Generation Iron, Jonathan Salmon is a writer, martial arts instructor, and geek culture enthusiast. Check out his YouTube, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and Sound Cloud for in-depth MMA analysis.
Zane Watson: The Most Inspirational Bodybuilders Currently Competing
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Zane Watson talks about his future plans and the current bodybuilders that most inspire him.
Legends never die – which is why most athletes will list bodybuilding greats such as Ronnie Coleman, Dorian Yates, and Lee Haney in their list of most influential bodybuilders. It’s for good reason. But as these athletes recede further into the past, new athletes rise up to inspire a new generation. Zane Watson is a relatively young bodybuilder in his 30s and finds himself inspired by the rising current crop of athletes succeeding today. In our latest GI Exclusive interview, Zane Watson lists his picks for the most influential bodybuilders currently competing today.
Zane Watson is looking at a three year plan to success in pro bodybuilding. He’s been competing already for some time now but last year’s pandemic put a halt to his original plans. Now he’s looking to compete in the Arnold Classic 2021 this September. He’s had a routine memorized in his head that he’s excited to finally share with the world. He hopes this will be the first step towards further success and, hopefully, a future Olympia title.
We asked Zane Watson which bodybuilders inspired him most and helped influence his physique and posing routines. He had previously spoke with us about his original influences from past eras – but which bodybuilders currently competing excited him most and affected his approach?
Watson stated that he has multiple influences depending on which area of bodybuilding you are focusing on. For example, John Meadows is a big inspiration. He may no longer compete but now he trains athletes – including current Men’s 212 champion Shaun Clarida. Watson believes that Meadows’ training principles are legendary and have helped shape him into the bodybuilder he is today.
When it comes to pure physiques, he believes that Keone Pearson is a future Men’s 212 Olympia champion in the making. He believes that Pearson has one of the best physiques currently on stage in all of bodybuilding. He uses that as a beacon or goal to reach towards in his own physique.
Zane Watson also has a deep love of posing. He is most inspired at the moment by Terrence Ruffin’s posing routines. He believes that he will also become an Olympia champion in the Classic Physique division one day. Watson is a rare younger bodybuilder who believes posing is equally important as physiques. Without pitch perfect posing – the entire physique wouldn’t come together for the judges to see.
Athletes like Keone Pearson and Terrence Ruffin have been gaining heat for the past few years now. It makes sense that Zane Watson sees inspiration in them as well as motivation to rival them on stage with his own physique. Perhaps Watson will be the next guard of athlete to catch attention alongside these two bodybuilders. Watson’s New York Pro showing in 2018 caught a lot of attention. If he can earn a victory in the next step up such as the Arnold Classic – it can upgrade his status even further. We can’t wait to see his three year plan come to fruition.
You can watch Zane Watson’s full comments about his future plans and his inspirations in our latest GI Exclusive interview segment above!