Muscle Chemistry Archive
The Late Great Mike Mentzer Breaks Down Steroid Usage and It’s Effects
The late bodybuilding legend Mike Mentzer provides some interesting knowledge on the subject of steroids.
When it comes to knowledgeable bodybuilders there’s no doubt that Mike Mentzer was one of the smartest. A true legend of the Golden Era of the sport, Mentzer was able to build a truly impressive physique on the strength of his knowledge and training methods. He was no doubt one of the most informed bodybuilders in his day.
Speaking on bodybuilding in general, there’s no way you can think of the endeavor of building massive muscle and not think of anabolic steroids. Whether it was the Golden Era, the rise of the mass monsters, or the modern era of the sport steroids have always been a subject of conversation.
There’s an argument that no bodybuilder can achieve the world class level of muscle necessary to dominate the bodybuilding world without utilizing steroids. Many bodybuilders don’t discuss the usage of steroids publicly. That’s likely due to the negative stigma the anabolic substance gets. Many athletes refrain from discussing steroid usage simply because the wrong idea can be conveyed.
Many bodybuilders are unlikely to discuss steroid usage because of a number of particular notions. Some want to avoid advocating for the usage of the substance, concerned about influencing young lifters into taking steroids. Another notion is that they don’t want to public to view their success simply through the lens of steroid usage. Many look at steroids as a magic drug that does all the heavy lifting. In reality, whether an athlete uses steroids or not, it requires a tremendous amount of rigorous training in order to reap the benefits.
Whatever there reasons, many bodybuilders are mum on the topic of steroids. But not Mike Mentzer.
A Rare Interview With The Legend
A recent video interview has surfaced of the late great bodybuilder discussing steroid usage, it’s effect on the body, and other tidbits of knowledge on the subject. The interview which took place in 1991 showcased just how knowledgeable Mentzer was on the subject matter. Take a look at the video below and hopefully get a bit more informed about steroids.
It’s clear that Mike Mentzer knew quite a bit about steroids. While you’d be hard pressed to refute most of the information Mentzer shares here, one thing he said could be challenged. He mentions that bodybuilders were unlikely to get larger and leaner in the future. When you see the state of modern bodybuilding, it’s clear that Mentzer couldn’t have anticipated the mass monsters of today.
Do you agree with Mike Mentzer in this interview? What are your views on the current state of steroid usage in modern bodybuilding?
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News and Editorial Writer 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.
Top Reasons Why You Should Use Super Greens Supplements
You’ve heard of them, but what’s the real benefit in taking them?
Too often do we find ourselves battling certain deficiencies when it comes to those vital nutrients and super green supplements are exactly the kind of thing to help prevent that. When it comes down to it, you constantly deplete your body and even with a solid nutrition routine, getting all those valuable nutrients can often times slip through the cracks. But with sports nutrition and supplement companies working diligently on your behalf, the right products do exist and can greatly influence all of your gains. Plus, they’ll keep you healthier overall.
Some ask the question of what is different between a multivitamin and a super greens supplement– a fair question. We’re always told that we should work to maximize our health as best we can and with the right supplements we can do just that. But, of course, money becomes an issue for some as our expenses tend to add up, thus giving us the choice between what to buy.
Let’s take an in depth at super greens supplements and see just what makes these so sought after. The right approach can give us everything we need to succeed when it comes to supplementation. And we’ll answer the question of multivitamins vs. super greens so you get the best advice on how to move forward.
What Are Super Green Supplements?
Super green supplements are dietary supplements designed to help you reach your daily intake of fruits and vegetables in a convenient powder form. Packed with vital nutrients and offering loads of benefits, super greens can be easily mixed and taken at your convenience to pump you full of only the best ingredients including greens, other vegetables, fruits, probiotics, and more. The right product will keep you operating at full capacity all day long (1).
Benefits Of Super Greens
Let’s take a quick look at some awesome benefits that come along with a great super greens powder:
Help weight loss: Helps to stop cravings and keep you full to avoid weight gain and help with weight management.
Promote better gut health: With necessary enzymes included, this allows your gut to break down food for better nutrient extraction.
Pump you with nutrients and antioxidants: Fight oxidative damage in the body from free radicals (2).
Better energy levels: Provide consistent energy supply throughout the day and boost not only your workouts but also everyday life.
Convenient supplement: Take whenever you want with your desired beverage of choice for simple and easy gains.
Why You Should Take Them
Our bodies are constantly depleted due to workouts and our everyday lives. Even with other supplements and the right routines, the wear and tear we face just really depletes us. But what a good super greens supplement can do is boost our intake and provide for those often missed vital nutrients so we get the most bang for our buck. The above benefits, plus many more, are just some reasons why taking a super greens supplement is important, but at the end of the day, this supplement can help with your overall health and performance, so don’t neglect this from your routine.
Difference Between Super Greens, Multivitamin & Omega-3’s
When it comes to these three supplements, super greens, multivitamins, and omega-3’s can all greatly benefit your health and performance. But it is important to remember that each works in their own respective right to boost your health. Super greens, as mentioned above, will give you a healthy dose of greens and other fruits and vegetables so you do get those vitamins and minerals, however, your body still needs to break that down for nutrient extraction.
A multivitamin will give you everything you need in terms of vitamins and minerals so you don’t suffer a deficiency and should be in your routine regardless of what other supplement you take (3). Omega-3’s are those fatty acids great for boosting a variety of bodily functions like eye and brain health, on top of many others (4).
When it comes down to it, a multivitamin is essential in your routine and should absolutely be a staple. If you find that you are missing those valuable greens, then a super greens product is the way to go for it can give you all that and more. Omega-3 supplements are a nice choice if you want to improve bodily functions but the top two can do the job. If you have the money to spend, and feel an omega-3 supplement will help, then definitely look into a high-quality supplement to boost your gains.
Featured Super Greens Supplement For The Best Nutrients
Transparent Labs WellnessSeries Prebiotic Greens
Code GENIRON10 For 10% Off
Transparent Labs WellnessSeries Prebiotic Greens is a mineral rich and nutritious prebiotic greens supplement. Two parts to this formula works to maximize nutrient utilization as effectively as possible.
Transparent Labs WellnessSeries Prebiotic Greens offers a solid mineral rich and nutritious prebiotic supplement to maximize nutrient utilization. With two parts to this formula, their Algae Greens delivers much needed vitamins and minerals to aid in detoxification and their Prebiotic Fibers will provide healthy gut fibers to maximize this nutrient utilization. With clean ingredients and a transparent formula, Transparent Labs takes pride in knowing their product is geared towards the needs of the consumer with no ulterior motive.
Use the promo code GENIRON10 for 10% off! Check out our individual review for Transparent Labs WellnessSeries Prebiotic Greens here!
Check out our list of the Best Super Green Supplements for more great products!
Wrap Up
Super greens supplements are exactly what we need to thrive day in and day out when it comes to our overall health and performance. By working with the right supplements, we work to optimize our gains so we never fall short of what we need most. By pumping us with fruits and vegetables, we are able to get those vital nutrients into our bodies and really find the best benefits for moving forward. A good super greens supplement can give us what we need and quickly and should be a staple in your supplements routine.
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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 Envato
References
Zhang, J.; et al. (2009). “The effect of fruit and vegetable powder mix on hypertensive subjects: a pilot study”. (source)
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. “Antioxidants: In Depth”. (source)
Kamangar, F.; et al. (2012). “Vitamin and Mineral Supplements: Do We Really Need Them?”. (source)
National Institute of Health: National Center For Complementary and Integrative Health”. (source)
These Are The 7 Most Important Lifts
The Best Seven Exercises You Can Do In The Gym
No two exercises are created equal. In this article, we won’t be getting into the argument if compound lifts are better than the isolation movements. We believe each has its place in your exercise arsenal.
If you’re like most people, you’ll want to make the most of your time in the gym. And how do you do that, you ask? It’s easy, you perform the exercises which are going to give you the best bang for your buck.
Squats
There are no surprises here. Squats are one of the best functional lifts which can add size to your legs and help you in building overall strength. If you have a back injury or can’t perform the barbell squats for some reason, you can try variations like the goblet or hack squats.
Make sure you’re focusing on contracting your muscles with each rep in all of the exercises you perform. Just going through the motions for the sake of it isn’t going to do much for you. Establishing a mind-muscle connection is key to building muscle mass.
Incline Dumbbell Bench Press
For many people, the upper pecs are a weak muscle group. Following a full ROM (range of motion) while performing the incline bench press can help in developing the stubborn muscle group.
If you perform these exercises in your HIIT workouts, 12-15 repetitions will be the optimal rep range. Keep your ego in check and focus on the form rather than the amount of weight on the bar.
EZ-Bar Skullcrushers
The skullcrushers are one of the most effective tricep exercises. Lie down on a flat bench with an EZ-bar in your hands extended at arm’s length so your upper arms are perpendicular to the floor at the starting position.
You need to keep your elbows and upper arms locked in the same place throughout the exercise. The bar should be a couple of inches away from your forehead at the bottom of the movement.
Squats are a must in your training program
Arnold Presses
While most shoulder exercises target a single deltoid out of the three heads, the Arnold presses work the anterior and medial delts. Performing the Arnold presses while sitting on an army bench eliminates the possibility of using momentum.
Deadlifts
Deadlifts are a full-body exercise that primarily targets the back. Performing the compound exercises regularly can improve your mobility, strength, and can help you in doing your day-to-day tasks.
Machine Preacher Curls
While most people love performing the dumbbell curls, they can’t get the most out of them as they lack the mind-muscle connection. Machine preacher curls are an isolation exercise that targets the peak of your biceps.
Hanging Leg Raises
Most people who workout want washboard abs but don’t know how to achieve them. After you have your diet in place, performing exercises like the hanging leg raises will help you bring the definition and symmetry in your abs.
Which is your favorite exercise? Let us know in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Header image courtesy of Envato Elements
Opinion: The Pros and Cons of Lifting Heavy as a Mixed Martial Artist
Barbell lifts have been translated over to almost every sport imaginable. At first many believed weightlifting was only for bodybuilders and people looking to create some solid beach muscles with no real substance behind the aesthetics. Soon people learned just how wrong that notion was.
In reality, barbell lifts are great for athletic performance. Building quality muscle doesn’t simply need to be translated over to the bodybuilding stage. If you have the right program then it can be adjusted to your needs. Which leads us to the notion of heavy lifting. Can it be beneficial to your performance in endeavors outside of powerlifting and bodybuilding? On an even more personal perspective, how does heavy lifting translate over to martial arts?
Benefits
I was never much of a heavy lifter when I was actively competing in Karate and kickboxing. Instead my focus was purely on technique and strategy. Rather than “waste time” lifting heavy weight, the focus was always on improving on execution. It’s only now in hindsight that I’ve made the realization that it was the wrong approach. Lifting should definitely be apart of a martial artist’s program. But should you be going heavy?
To clarify, when I started a program I chose the powerlifting approach with some bodybuilding principles thrown in to add variety. Squats, bench press, and the occasional deadlift were all on the menu. The results were definitely alarming, particularly in the beginning.
The benefits of lifting heavy is gaining some insane, godly strength. When I switched over to lifting heavy I felt incredible strength and power, something that was perhaps always there but was dormant. Clinches and ties ups were easy enough to shrug off and my muscle mass increased meaning playing the bully was all but guaranteed. But it wasn’t all sunshine and wine. Lifting heavy has drawbacks, despite the insane strength increase.
Drawbacks
There are a number of things to consider as a fighter when you choose to lift weights. One, you must keep in mind that you have to compete in a particular weight class and gaining too much muscle can make a weight cut even harder than it already is. Secondly, if you’re lifting heavy weight, the chances of you getting sluggish in your movement is a real concern.
Lifting heavy put on the muscle mass sure, but it also turned my fleet footed movement into more of a plodding affair. Rather than bouncing around with dynamic speed, I was reduced to marching towards sparring partners or only able to have fast feet for a short period of time before my muscles fatigued.
Suggested Methods
So where does that leave me and heavy lifting? Well, there is certainly a benefit to lifting in general, one that can’t be denied, discarded or ignored. But lifting heavy simply isn’t going to get the job done as far as aiding in athletic performance for MMA.
That said, lifting should definitely be thrown in there somewhere. Rather than aiming to lift heavy and achieve personal records, an individual looking to use lifting for athletic performance should focus on the rate of velocity of their lift. In layman’s terms that means focusing on how fast the bar is traveling from the bottom position of a lift to the top. That means sacrificing the heavy weight for something much more manageable.
You don’t need to come close to your one rep max to get a ton of benefits of lifting. Your strength may not triple over night, but you will get more explosive which is far more important in a sport like MMA. You’ll gain muscle, but not the kind of massive amounts that will throw you out of a weight class, plus you’ll be able to reap the strength benefits without feeling like a sluggish mess when it’s time to mix it up in sparring.
All in all, you should definitely be lifting if you’re competing in an explosive, dynamic sport. It’s all about programming and how you implement the training more than the actually weight you put on the bar. A good rule of thumb to live by is performance over ego. If you keep that in mind then you’re golden.
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Managing Editor at Generation Iron, Jonathan Salmon is a writer, martial arts instructor, and geek culture enthusiast. Check out his Instagram, Twitter and Facebook to keep up with his antics.
Eddie Hall Lands Role In Sylvester Stallone’s “The Expendables 4”
Strongman Eddie Hall will make an appearance on the big screen in a Sylvester Stallone movie.
It has been quite the year for Eddie Hall to this point and it is only going to get busier from here. Along with rehabbing from an injury and planning a return to the boxing ring, Hall will also appear on screen in Sylvester Stallone’s film The Expendables 4.
Hall will appear in this movie as one of the villains. He was offered the part back in 2019 from Stallone himself when the two were in the UK. Hall will not be the only recognizable name in this film. The list includes Megan Fox, 50 Cent, Iko Uwais, Tony Jaa, and Andy Garcia.
The Expendables 4 began officially filming back in September. Nearly two months later, Stallone announced that his scenes were complete. This will be Stallone’s final appearance in the series. His character, Barney Ross, will no longer appear after the fourth film. This leaves Jason Staham’s Lee Christmas character in line to take over as the main character.
It has been a busy year for Eddie Hall because of his path to the boxing ring being halted by injury. Hall was prepared to take on Hafthor Bjornsson in the ring but was forced to postpone after suffering a torn bicep. Hall continued to rehab his injury with an eye on boxing and performed exercises to strengthen the right muscles. Hall announced that his bicep is now fully attached and he wants to take on Bjornsson once again. This might be a match for charity if Bjornsson accepts a recent offer.
In a way, Hall and Sylvester Stallone can be attached through boxing. Hall has ventured into the sport while Stallone was a huge part of promoting the sport through the Rocky series. Recently, the two got together to congratulate Tyson Fury after his victory against Tyron Woodley.
“Massive congrats to @gypsyking101From myself and @officialslystallone on your fight win ? you have the done the country proud and the people of the world are in awe of your sportsmanship and dedication to boxing ?The awareness you bring to mental health whilst conquering life is astounding also, so thank you from myself and millions of others around the world for being such a great role model.Keep being the peoples champion Tyson and can’t wait for what’s next for you ? ?@millenniummedia@lionsgate#Expendables4Big LoveTeam Beast”
Eddie Hall will have a chance to portray a villainous character in this movie. This will be a new venture for a strongman who has been moving into different avenues recently. This will be an exciting movie with plenty of star power next to Sylvester Stallone as he wraps up his appearances in The Expendables series.
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How Spider Curls Lead To Those Bigger, More Buff Biceps
Build those bigger biceps for a seriously buff physique with this isolation exercise.
We all want those bigger biceps and know plenty of exercises to help get us there, but one exercise in spider curls may be an elusive one. We all know those popular exercises associated with arm growth being alternating dumbbell curls, concentration curls, barbell curls, and a host of other more popular biceps exercises great for seeing gains. But spider curls have the ability to isolate and really build those bigger, more buff biceps to only aid in that massive physique.
With so many exercises out there, it can often times be hard to choose the right from the wrong- the most efficient one vs. those which will just waste time. But with spider curls, you get an engaging exercise with minimal equipment needed able to provide for a host of gains to make others seriously envy you and your bigger, more buff physique.
Let’s take a look at spider curls and see what this exercise is all about. Form what it is, to muscle worked, the many benefits, and of course, how to perform it, you will be well on your way to seeing those gains you want most. Plus, with the right equipment, there’s no excuse to ever have a bad workout again.
What Are Spider Curls?
Spider curls are an isolation arm exercise with a beginner difficulty level, given the fact it is relatively easy to learn. The only equipment needed is an incline bench and weights, being a barbell or dumbbells. What this exercise can do is really build up strength and size in your biceps, and by isolating them, along with your forearms and other secondary muscles, spider curls give your muscles no choice but to grow. It is best to perform this exercise towards the end of your workout, especially after a heavier lift as this will work to fatigue your muscles further.
Muscles Worked
The spider curl works your biceps and forearms in a way that gives them no choice but to increase in size. The main muscles worked are your biceps brachii, with your brachioradialis, brachialis and forearm flexors getting great secondary work done. Spider curls work to really isolate these muscles to force them to have extra time under tension for that increased growth.
Benefits Of Spider Curls
The benefits of spider curls are hard to ignore, especially when you place these towards the end of your workout. If you are looking for an effective exercise to provide for serious pumps and efficient gains, then spider curls are the way to go.
Benefits of spider curls include:
Increase muscle growth: By working with real weight and increased range of motion, your muscles have no choice but to grow, especially with an increased emphasis on fatiguing them (1).
Better range of motion: Really work for increased time under tension with better range of motion to build muscle and feel like you’re getting great work done (2).
Build better symmetry: Us bodybuilders need the best in terms of muscle symmetry and by working each muscle on its own, you can play with size and build that perfect physique.
Effective finisher workout: For those looking to really push growth and bring your muscles to total fatigue, this is an effective finisher workout, especially after a heavier exercise.
Nice biceps curl variation: This exercise gives you a good excuse to change up the traditional biceps curl exercise.
How To Perform Spider Curls
Here are the steps for performing the spider curl:
Lay on a bench at an incline of around 45-degrees. Your stomach will be pressed against the backrest and the top of the bench will be around arm-pit height.
Take a dumbbell in each hand with your palms facing forward.
When ready, bend your elbows and curl the weight towards your shoulders, really giving a good squeeze at the top.
In a controlled movement, lower back to the starting position.
Repeat for your desired number of reps.
Featured Equipment For Spider Curls
When it comes to building those massive arms, having the right equipment is imperative and can greatly affect all your gains. With the right dumbbells or barbell, you will effectively work those biceps with the spider curl to build those bigger, more buff biceps.
Best Dumbbells: Bowflex SelectTech Dumbbells
Bowflex SelectTech Dumbbells adjust from 5 to 52.5 lbs. and allow for quick switching. With 15 sets of weight in one, the unique dial system works perfectly for convenience.
Bowflex SelectTech Dumbbells offer adjustments from 5-52.5 lbs. with 2.5 increments so you can progress efficiently and have a quality workout. The ability to rapidly switch from one exercise to the next saves you time and space by combining 15 sets of weight into one. The unique dial system works great and totally eliminates the need for many dumbbell sets for better convenience and overall space.
Check out our list of the Best Adjustable Dumbbells for more great products!
Best Barbell: American Barbell 20kg Training Bar
American Barbell 20KG Training Bar is a versatile barbell that is rigorously tested for training and competition. A precision ground alloy steel shaft ensures quality, durability, and longevity.
American Barbell 20KG Training Bar is a versatile bar tested and approved for training and competition. The precision ground alloy steel bar shaft is tested through a rigorous process to ensure longevity and excellent whip for optimal performance. A finished hard chrome adds extra durability and corrosion resistance for nice added features. The bar sleeves work to rotate smoothly and this bar is 20kg, 28mm in diameter, and 2,200mm in length. This bar is built to last while providing comfort and longevity for all of your goals.
Check out our list of the Best Barbells for more great lifting products!
Wrap Up
Spider curls are the perfect exercise to see increased growth to give you bigger, more buff biceps. At the end of the day, you need an exercise that will be engaging and effective. With so many biceps exercises out there, working to confuse your muscles can be challenging but it is possible. Give spider curls a try and really see how an efficient biceps workout can give you that buff aesthetic others will envy.
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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 Envato
References
Mangine, G. (2015). “The effect of training volume and intensity on improvements in muscular strength and size in resistance-trained men”. (source)
Pinto, R. (2012). “Effect of range of motion on muscle strength and thickness”. (source)
Nadia Stowers Sets World Record In Log Press And Axle Deadlift
Strongwoman Nadia Stowers recently set two world records.
It was a day to remember on Saturday for Nadia Stowers. The strongwoman set two world records during the 2021 Static Monsters Worldwide Competition. The BIG Speed and Strength gym in Fontana, CA was the site to see an incredible feat of strength from Stowers in the 82-kg weight class.
Stowers set a new mark in both the axle deadlift and log press. First, the axle deadlift was a whopping 299.4kg (660lb) followed by a log press of 130.6kg (288lb). Stowers took to Instagram to share the lifts and provide some thanks for her world-record performance.
“They say shoot for the moon and if you miss, you’ll land amongst the stars. I didn’t get my moon today but man these stars are pretty!! Think these are both the highest recorded log press and axle deadlift in a competition so far!-correct me if I’m wrong- now THAT’S exciting!
288 log-24lbs up from last year660 axle-10lbs up from last year303 log attempt!! – I’ll GET my moon!
Coached by @jacobfinertyB.I.G Online coaching available”
The log press record was previously held by Stowers but she exceeded it by 13kg. In 2019, Rebecca Cumpsty logged the world record of 115kg (253.5lb) before Stowers was able to break it at the 2021 Clash on the Coast. This is where she lifted 117.9kg (260lb). She made the lift look easy on Saturday where she was able to demolish her previous record.
Coming into the weekend, Stowers already matched the previous world record in axle deadlift but did not pass it. This was held by Kim Derks at 295kg (650.4lb). This was achieved at the 2019 SMWW competition. Now, Stowers can have the record all to herself. She previously matched the record during the 2020 SMWW competition.
Nadia Stowers recently finished eighth in the 2021 World’s Ultimate Strongwoman competition. She won the 2020 SMWW competition with a total of 408.5kg (900.6lb). That same year, Stowers became the winner at the 2020 Strongman Corporation National Championship. This is now Stowers’ third world record. The first came during the 2021 Clash on the Coast where she achieved a 97.5 (215lb) block press.
Nadia Stowers certainly put on a show over the weekend and it will be interesting to see if she can build on this performance moving forward.
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Dr. Testosterone Warns: You Must Not Smoke Or Drink While On A Steroid Cycle
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Dr. Testosterone discusses the strict realities of combining steroids with other recreational drugs such as cigarettes, alcohol, cocaine, and more.
There’s no question that steroids are a major health risk when used recreationally for athletic enhancement. Whether an athlete wants to take that risk is up to the individual. But having as much information and education before making that decision is crucial for the athlete to make the right choice. That’s why Dr. Testosterone is crystal clear in his messaging regarding steroids and bodybuilding. He’s not against using the drug – but he’s not ignorant to the real and dangerous risks involved. This is especially true when considering the rest of your habits in relation to steroid use. In our latest GI Exclusive interview, Dr. Testosterone explains why athletes must not smoke cigarettes, drink alcohol, or use party drugs while on a steroid cycle.
When discussing any sort of drug use, the most challenging aspect for doctors and scientists is that these things do not happen in a vacuum. Asking if steroids are safe, for example, is more complicated than it seems. There are the inherent dangers of using such a powerful drug. But there are also dangers when considering other human habits that can go along with it. A doctor cannot control what we do outside of their office – they can only warn and suggest the right strategies for a healthy life.
Most bodybuilders understand the pros and cons of using steroids for athletic enhancement. What might be less known are the bad habits that can actually increase risk alongside the drug. Other things that we put in our body including the type of food we eat, other drugs we take, and also social drugs such as alcohol or cigarettes can all have a huge impact on the effect steroids put on our bodies.
During our conversation with Dr. Testosterone, we asked him how serious it is for a bodybuilder to continue other vices such as drinking or smoking while on steroids. Dr. T makes it very clear. He tells all of his patients that they much choose between steroids and. other drugs. He warns that a bodybuilder or athlete must not smoke cigarettes, drink alcohol, or use other drugs such as cocaine while on a cycle.
Dr. Testosterone warns that continuing to use these drugs alongside steroids, at best, will lead to worse results. At worst, it can amplify health dangers caused by both the other drugs and also the steroids. It’s the kind of cocktail that is not worth it. It’s these kinds of habits that can lead to bodybuilders becoming frustrated with results of steroids, for example, and then start taking higher doses in hopes of seeing results. This can be a slippery slope towards serious health issues.
Additionally, alcohol and cigarettes are already bad vices to have as an athlete. They make fitness simply harder, and can lead to degradation of your body that pulls away from your athletic ability. Add steroids into the mix and you are simply getting more negative effects than positive. No serious athlete should ever consider these things in combination.
You can watch Dr. Testosterone go into full medical detail by watching our latest GI Exclusive interview segment above!
*DISCLAIMER: Generation Iron does not recommend or condone the use of steroids or other PEDs. The views and opinions expressed in this video are not that of Generation Iron.
Big Ramy Starts Mr. Olympia 2022 Training Early
Big Ramy has already started training for next year’s Olympia.
Big Ramy has taken over bodybuilding and done so by winning the last two Olympia competitions. The Egyptian bodybuilder has a legitimate chance to make it three in a row and the process has already started.
Dennis James shared a video on his Instagram page confirming that Olympia prep has begun. In the video, James is seen spotting Big Ramy with other trainers present as well. The two-time champion has started his process in Dubai.
This is noteworthy following a recent story about Big Ramy’s training leading up to the 2021 Olympia. Chad Nicholls shared photos of the bodybuilder leading up to the competition. He was 327 pounds of pure muscle but did not begin training until three months before he was set to take the stage. Big Ramy won the 2020 Olympia in December 2020 and did not begin training until July 2021.
This could be the reason that Big Ramy’s victory was a bit controversial this year. Despite being the overwhelming favorite coming in, many believe that Hadi Choopan showed better conditioning and deserved better than his third-place finish. Even Brandon Curry and his team were a bit critical of the judging and overall outcome. Quickly following the win, Big Ramy stated that he will continue to defend his title for years to come.
Dennis James has been working with Big Ramy over the years. Dennis James is a former IFBB professional bodybuilder. He competed in eight Olympia competitions, finishing as high as 4th in 2003. His last Olympia appearance came in 2010 and his final competition was the 2012 Masters Mr. Olympia in 2012. James put together a string of two victories in 2009 at the Tampa Pro and the Europa Super Show.
The fact that Big Ramy is back in the gym already might not be good news for the competition. This means he will have over a year to training leading into the 2022 show in December. He was able to conquer the Olympia with just three months of preparation and it is likely that he enters the 2022 show with an even better physique.
The competition is only going to get stronger and this means Big Ramy will have to continue to improve. He already has a leg up on the others after two victories and is taking ample time to prepare for the next time he steps on stage. This makes for what will be another entertaining show when the time comes.
Big Ramy has a great team to work with and knows how to get the most out of his workouts. Fans can wait and see when physique updates are posted. What we do know now is that the champ is back in the gym.
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James Hollingshead to Move to the US to Take Training to the Next Level
James Hollingshead is set to move to the United States.
It appears that too UK bodybuilder James Hollingshead is setting up a move to the United States. This news comes hot off the heels of Hollingshead’s performance at the 2021 Olympia. He would take 13th place at the show.
Some times you need to switch things up in order to bring about the best version of yourself. No doubt this is likely the mindset James Hollingshead has adopted after his showing at the 2021 Olympia. While he may have acquitted himself well at his first Olympia, Hollingshead taking 13th place was a bit of a wake up call for the UK bodybuilder.
It appears that rather than return to the drawing board and just train harder for an Olympia qualifier, James Hollingshead has decided to take different measures. Hollingshead has decided to make some major changes and move to the United States.
In a recent video posted on the REDCON1 YouTube channel, James Hollingshead talks about his decision to make the move to America. Hollingshead speaks on the fact that he needed to make a change in order to get himself to the next level. He believes the move to the US will put him in an environment that will allow him to push harder in his training and thus be more effective and much improved the next time he steps on stage.
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Solid Training
This is certainly a massive shake up for James Hollingshead. The UK bodybuilder certainly has the kind of incredible potential that could take him far. He has a balanced and well muscled physique.
Current training objective stands
Log and lift
Increase load at a moderate frequency on the basics
Eat plenty and warrant the need for adaptive response
Still using my time to find my specific movements that I’ll run into this phase of my training
Great thing is at @redcon1gym I have a lot of great choices
Keeping training pretty basic, for example training for say delts would look like so
PRESS X 2
LATERAL X 2
UPRIGHT X 2
REVERSE X 2
ALL SETS AIM FOR 8-10 WITH A FORCED REPETITION OR TWO
I’ll log everything and aim to progress lifts all round
The good thing is of volume and exercise numbers are not excessive you can pretty much improve ALL lifts from that session
Once the exercises start to stack up it becomes difficult to do so..not that that’s a bad thing at all because effort and intention go a very long way
However right now every calorie has a purpose and that is to provide an upward progression on a performance specific task being purely strength
I obviously keep cardio in place at 30 minutes a day for many many reasons. Most notable reason is for aiding my appetite a d allowing digestion to remain in a good spot
My calories at current are on average around the 5k mark (that’s on a day without a treat) so on a day with say a meal off they can ve close to 6500
Rest days are lower and probably closer to the 3500 – 4000 mark
I log my nutrition also in a journal
Weight is currently stable at 274-275
If he joins a promising camp with a coach that can really scrutinize physique, training, and presentation, Hollingshead could likely be a future top 5 Olympia contender.
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News and Editorial Writer 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.