Muscle Chemistry Archive
Gym Crush: Ana Cheri
Presenting Ana Cheri
You have to be living under a rock if you don’t know about Ana Cheri. For all the turtles, Ana Cheri is a social media sensation with over 10 million Instagram followers. Ana arguably has one of the hottest bodies on the internet.
If you’re into women with hourglass figures, you’re in for a treat. Cheri was Playboy’s Playmate of the Month for October 2015. Before you google her Playmate adventures, read on to know more about her.
Ana Cheri proves the people wrong who think muscular girls look manly. Cheri has a perfectly crafted physique which can put many to shame. Ana has proportionate muscles which add to the aesthetics.
Ana can rock any outfit and this picture is the proof. Cheri keeps her fans entertained with her Instagram posts and stories. She even lets her fans into her life by sharing behind the scenes videos and photos.
Cheri has to be one of the most beautiful women you will ever see. Her thoughtful captions will give you a little something to ponder over. You can expect a few nuggets of knowledge every now and then from her.
Ana is much more than a pretty face. She is an entrepreneur and has her own line of swimwear called Cheri Swim. These adjustable bottoms are a new approach to the otherwise boring swimwear.
Ana owns a gym with her husband (sorry boys) called Be More Athletics. Cheri is always pushing people to be their best selves. She holds transformation challenges to give people a kick start on their fitness journies.
Cheri has a heart of gold and goes out of her way to help the people in need. Be More Athletics was one of the few gyms which came together to donate to the families affected by Hurrican Harvey.
This is what a day at the office looks like for Ana Cheri. If you think building a physique like Ana’s is easy, this video will give you an idea of what it takes. Ana follows a high-intensity workout which can be incredibly effective at melting the fat away.
Cheri has one of the best rears and her Instagram is full of training and nutrition tips for how you can achieve the same results. We would watch every single baseball match if Ana Cheri was playing.
Ana has the travel bug. If you have the wanderlust but can’t make the time to satisfy it, following Cheri on Instagram is the next best option. Ana Cheri and beautiful landscape are a deadly combination.
Ana has a picture for every possible scenario. We couldn’t find a better picture to wrap up this article. On second thoughts, we could find a better picture but we love Cheri’s quirkiness.
Do you follow Ana Cheri on Instagram? Let us know in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook and Twitter.
*Header image courtesy of Ana Cheri’s Instagram.
How To Perform The Landmine Press
The Landmine Press: A Unique Unilateral Exercise For Building Shoulder Strength
While the landmine press is not your conventional type of resistance exercise, it has the potential to develop serious shoulder strength.Considering that the exercise is a unilateral exercise, it may also allow you to eliminate any asymmetries that exist and generally promote shoulder health and function.This article will demonstrate how to perform the landmine press as well as providing detail on the benefits of incorporating the exercise into your training program.
Landmine Press Technique & Muscles Worked
While you may be aware of common shoulder strengthening exercises such as the overhead press, shrugs, and rows, the landmine press is not so well known.The exercise involves the use of a barbell and a landmine holder. The landmine holder is a device that holds one end of the barbell and allows for 360-degree movement.If you do not have access to a landmine holder, find a stable base to place the barbell against (such as the corner of a room).
With one end of the barbell in the holder, the other end of the barbell should be held in one hand. The bar is then pressed through the engagement of the shoulder and arm muscles.
The muscles that are primarily involved in the press are the deltoids and triceps.The deltoids in the shoulder must concentrically contract to bring about extension at the arm whereas the triceps powerfully contract to extend the elbow joint. Due to the fact that the exercise is unilateral, there are a number of scapular stabilizing muscles that are heavily involved in controlling the movement (1).Furthermore, the oblique muscles must also contract to hold the spine in a neutrally aligned position and also prevent any rotation through the trunk.To perform the landmine press, work through the following five steps:Step One: Place the barbell into the landmine and add weight to the other end of the bar (if required).Step Two: With the barbell in contact with the floor, set-up directly behind it. Kneel down and place on the right foot out in front of the body and keep the left knee in contact with the floor. Step Three: Lift the barbell from the floor and place it in the left hand, holding it just in front of the shoulder.Step Four: Before pressing, lift the chest and brace the core tight. Press the bar up and out until you have fully extended at the elbows before returning to the starting position.Step Five: Upon completion of the reps on the left, swap sides and repeat.
Three Benefits of the Landmine Press
While there are a large number of benefits associated with the landmine press, this section will highlight three of the biggest benefits that you should be aware of.
1) Improved Core Stability
While improving pressing strength may be a fairly obvious benefit, improved core stability may not be the first benefit that comes to mind. As a result of the kneeling position and the angle of the press, the core has to work incredibly hard to stabilize the body as the bar is pressed.Therefore, by performing the landmine press frequently you can expect to see an increase in core stability and anti-rotational strength.Having a strong and stable core is highly important for all athletes and lifters who are lifting heavy weights or move weight overhead regularly as it can significantly reduce injury risk and facilitate performance (2).
2) Enhanced Scapular Control
For those who perform overhead movements (like snatches, jerks, & overhead squats), it is imperative that you have efficient scapular control. Having poor scapular control will not only hinder performance but may increase the risk of sustaining a serious shoulder injury. The landmine press is a superb resistance exercise that can significantly improve scapular control.This is primarily due to the angle of the press which highly activates shoulder stabilizers and is quite unlike the majority of other pressing exercises.
3) Increased Pressing Strength
Building strength in the deltoids and triceps will vastly improve the amount of weight that you can press. Therefore, the landmine press can be effectively programmed to improve pressing strength.
It’s also a highly functional exercise as, not only can it increase pressing strength, it can allow us to address any strength imbalances that exist between the shoulders.Furthermore, the combination of improved core stability and scapular control will lead to a more efficient pressing motion.By enhancing movement efficiency, you will also see a substantial improvement in your pressing abilities (3).
Who Should Perform the Landmine Press?
The following section provides detail on the benefits of the landmine press for specific goals and abilities.
1) Strength & Power Athletes
For those who perform overhead exercises, the landmine is an excellent accessory exercise that may help to improve overhead strength, stability, and rectify any existing imbalances.Weightlifters may find the landmine press to be particularly useful for improving snatch and jerk performance whereas powerlifters may experience improvement with their bench press.It may also be useful for those who have limitations when performing an overhead press or for those who are recovering from a shoulder injury.The angle involved in the landmine press may reduce the stress placed on the shoulder joint and consequently allow the lifter to continue to develop their pressing abilities without any issues.
2) Functional Athletes
Those who participate in sports like CrossFit may also find the landmine press to be beneficial to their performance.As highlighted in the earlier section, the landmine press develops many components of fitness – strength, stability, and movement.Therefore, incorporating the landmine press into your training is highly recommended as it will bring about a range of functional adaptations.
3) General Fitness
For general shoulder health and function, the landmine press is one of the best exercises that you can do.It may be particularly beneficial for beginner lifts as not only will it build shoulder strength and stability, it may also help to reinforce good pressing mechanics.As touched on briefly, the landmine press may also be useful for those who are suffering with limitations as the bar is press in front of the body rather than directly overhead.
Landmine Press Variations and Alternatives
There are a number of landmine press variations and alternatives that can be used to alter the demand of the exercise. This section will outline five excellent variations and three alternatives that you can consider using in your training.
Landmine Press Variations
1) Banded Landmine Press
For the banded variation, simply place one end of a resistance band around the front foot and the other around the barbell. The band will increase the amount of resistance that is experienced during the press thus applying additional stress to the working muscles and causing strength adaptations.
2) Standing Landmine Press
Very simply move from the kneeling position to a standing position for this variation. Although the change is simple, the dynamic of the movement changes slightly.By standing during the press, there is a greater need for total body control as the muscles of the legs become more heavily involved in stabilizing the movement.3) Tempo Landmine PressThe tempo variation is the same as the conventional landmine press with the only difference relating to the speed of each press. Manipulating the tempo in this way can significantly increase positional strength, muscle activation, core stability, and coordination.
4) Single Arm Landmine Thruster
This variation is an excellent full-body strengthening exercise that incorporates two exercises – the landmine squat and the landmine press. To perform a single arm landmine thruster, start in a standing position with the weight in hand. Perform a squat and as you rise out of it, press the bar.
5) Single Arm Landmine Push Press
The difference between the landmine press and push press is that the push press requires movement through the hips and knees to assist in the press.For the push press variation, start by standing and hold the bar in hand. Very rapidly dip and drive at the knees and hips and immediately press the bar out.
Landmine Press Alternatives
1) Single Arm Kettlebell Press
Like the landmine press, the single arm kettlebell press can be effectively used to develop scapular control, movement, and unilateral strength.
2) Z-Press
The Z-Press is another pressing exercise that is most commonly used to build positional strength and core stability – this makes it an excellent alternative to the landmine press.
3) Overhead Press
In terms of developing raw shoulder strength, the overhead press is one of the best exercises that can be performed. Nothing quite compares to driving a heavy bar up and overhead.
Final Word
The landmine press is a highly functional strength training exercise that will significantly improve shoulder strength, core stability, scapular control, and movement. It is certainly an exercise that has proven to be highly beneficial for the majority of lifters and athletes.
References:1 – Schory, Abbey; Bidinger, Erik; Wolf, Joshua; Murray, Leigh (2016-6). “A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF THE EXERCISES THAT PRODUCE OPTIMAL MUSCLE RATIOS OF THE SCAPULAR STABILIZERS IN NORMAL SHOULDERS”. International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy. 11 (3): 321–336. ISSN 2159-2896. PMC 4886800. PMID 27274418.
2 – Radwan, Ahmed; Francis, Jennifer; Green, Andrew; Kahl, Eric; Maciurzynski, Diane; Quartulli, Ashley; Schultheiss, Julianne; Strang, Ryan; Weiss, Brett (2014-2). “IS THERE A RELATION BETWEEN SHOULDER DYSFUNCTION AND CORE INSTABILITY?”. International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy. 9 (1): 8–13. ISSN 2159-2896. PMC 3924603. PMID 24567850.
3 – Sparrow, W. A. (1983-09). “The efficiency of skilled performance”. Journal of Motor Behavior. 15 (3): 237–261. doi:10.1080/00222895.1983.10735299. ISSN 0022-2895. PMID 15151872.
Creatine Capsules Vs. Powder: Which One Is Best?
Both are helpful, but which is better for your gains?
For those of us looking to build insane strength and size, either for a massive aesthetic or performance results, creatine is one of those supplements we absolutely need to have on the shelf but the choice between creatine capsules vs. powder can be hard. As a safe and effective supplement, and easy way to see gains, creatine pairs nicely with a host of other products like protein powders, pre-workouts, and many more. But how to choose the best creatine option can be challenging.
Unlike some supplements, which only come in a powder or pill form depending on the supplement, creatine is available in both options. While it may be as simple as coming down to a preference in how you want to take your supplement, it can be hard to decide, for you want to maximize all your gains without sacrificing anything. So, we get to that tough question, which one is better?
Let’s take a look at creatine and note some of the differences between taking it in either pill or powder form. The right supplement can skyrocket your gains so the pressure is on to choose the right one. Good news is, it is absolutely possible to find.
What Is Creatine?
Creatine is an amino acid found in your muscles and your brain primarily used to boost energy and performance, increase muscle strength and size, avoid muscle breakdown, and retain as much muscle mass for performance and your aesthetic. What creatine does is it takes adenosine diphosphate (ADP), energy byproduct that is useless for your body, and recycles it to create adenosine triphosphate (ATP), your body’s energy source. This allows for increased energy stores for your next workout (1).
A creatine supplement gives your body a boost when looking to refuel these stores so you can tackle any workout that comes your way. As an effective tool to increase strength and size, it is no wonder why so many athletes use this supplement as a way to see gains.
Benefits Of Creatine
As mentioned above, creatine has the ability to really give you great benefits to strength and size, among other things. Benefits of creatine include:
Bigger, stronger muscles: Provide for more muscle pumps and increased blood flow through those overworked muscles for increased growth (2).
Better performance: Refuel those energy stores and enhance power output to support growth and recovery (3).
Support metabolism: Work to control insulin sensitivity and glycemic control for better fat loss.
Enhance cognitive function: Increase oxygen utilization in the brain to boost memory and processing speed (4).
Creatine Capsules Vs. Powder: Which Is Better?
When choosing between creatine capsules vs. powder, it is important to first see which one you would prefer more. Some people want to take capsules in the morning with their other vitamins and supplements and others would prefer to mix some powder and drink before their workout. So preference and what is most convenient to you is the number one factor. Along with this comes price. Of course, we would all want the very best supplements but those can get expensive. Looking into both options and seeing which product you can get at the best price also plays a big role.
To get into how this reacts and acts in your body, powder will be more readily absorbed and capsules will take time to digest. But on the alternative to that, capsules may be more convenient because you don’t need a shaker, the powder, and then some water, plus the hassle of transport and clean-up. With capsules you can pop them and your good to go. But ultimately for those of us looking to get this into our bodies as efficiently as possible, taking a powder form may seem like a better bet for it can be more readily absorbed and will hit you much faster.
Best Creatine Powder
With so many powders on the market, we wanted to share a great creatine powder from Transparent Labs with added HMB for even more benefits.
Transparent Labs StrengthSeries Creatine HMB
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Transparent Labs Creatine HMB is clean and effective for tackling all of your strength building needs. With no artificial additives or preservatives, what you get is pure creatine with added HMB for better strength.
Transparent Labs Creatine HMB is well worth the price and is one of the best creatine products for pure creatine. It has no added artificial flavors, fillers, preservatives, or coloring, which means the body isn’t wasting energy metabolizing useless chemicals — just pure creatine. Transparent Labs creatine is infused with HMB, or β-Hydroxy β-Methylbutyrate, which has been proven to increase muscle strength and lean body mass while decreasing fat mass and boosting focus. At a good price, this is a one of the best creatine products on the market to buy for bulking.
Use the promo code GENIRON10 for 10% off! Check out our individual review for Transparent Labs StrengthSeries Creatine HMB here!
Best Creatine Capsules
If we’re going to share a powder, it would only be fair to offer up some capsules as well. These capsules from Performance Lab are great and can serve as a solid option for those looking to take something in capsule form.
Performance Lab SPORT Maintain
Performance Lab Maintain contains three great ingredients and an ultramodern design to tackle all of your bulking needs. Easy to swallow capsules allow for better digestion so these nutrients hit you much faster.
This supplement from Performance Lab can restore depleted muscles on your rest day with 12 hours of steady anabolic nourishment. It can reload your muscles with key sport nutrients, provides extended-relief muscle growth support, and promotes strength, power, focus, and endurance. With three ingredients, creatine monohydrate being the biggest, this has the power to upgrade your rest day to new heights. The ultramodern design and easy to swallow capsules are great for digestion and bulking and comes from the best in sports nutrition technology on the market.
Check out our list of the Best Creatine Supplements for more great muscle building products!
Wrap Up
When it comes down to it, the debate between creatine capsules vs. powder is ultimately your choice. Both will provide you with creatine for increased gains, and while powder is more readily absorbed, capsules will still offer great benefits. Looking into convenience and price is important, as well as exactly what you want out of your supplements. The right product can greatly enhance all of your gains.
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.
*Images courtesy of Envato
References
R.; et al. (2012). “Creatine supplementation with specific view to exercise/sports performance: an update”. (source)
Francaux, M.; Poortmans, J. R. (1999). “Effects of training and creatine supplement on muscle strength and body mass”. (source)
Kreider, Richard B. (2003). “Effects of creatine supplementation on performance and training adaptations”. (source)
Avgerinos, Konstantinos I.; Spyrou, Nikolaos; Bougioukas, Konstantinos I.; Kapogiannis, Dimitrios (2018). “Effects of creatine supplementation on cognitive function of healthy individuals: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials”. (source)
Gabriel Peña Becomes First Strongman To Achieve 500kg Axle Deadlift
Gabriel Peña set a new world record in the Axle deadlift at 500kg.
It is always incredible to see a powerlifter reach new heights and Gabriel Pena did that over the weekend. The strongman recently competed in the 2021 Static Monsters Worldwide competition. This took place on Oct. 23 and Pena put on a show that we have never seen before.
Pena stepped up to the 16.75-inch axle wearing wrist straps, a lifting belt, and knee wraps. He completed a 500kg deadlift, which is a new world record. Pena became the first strongman ever to reach this number and he took to Instagram to celebrate his achievement.
“?WORLD RECORD?
I FINALLY HAVE MY OWN WORLD RECORD!!!
1,100 lbs / 500 kg at Static Monsters Worldwide in Harker Heights, Texas ?(16.75” Axle)
This Deadlift was for you Ricky @rd_strongman_36 . It was a pleasure lifting along with your boy today, and all the other athletes who came out in your honor.You’d be damn proud.Rest in power brother.”
The video shows how much effort this incredible lift actually took. Pena displayed strong technique and shaky legs until locked out and qualified the lift.
Gabriel Pena became the first strongman to accomplish this lift. The axle bar requires a higher grip because of the way the bar is shaped. This makes it a more difficult lift than that with a standard barbell.
This is not the first time that Pena has completed an enormous lift. This was his first record-breaking lift in competition but Pena has showed some impressive lifts in the gym. In June, Pena displayed a deadlift of 408.2kg (900lb) for a triple. He has completed a partial deadlift of 481kg (1,005lb) using an axle bar back in January.
This is not territory where many strongmen has gone. Anthony Pernice currently holds the world record for partial deadlift at 550kg (1,212.5lb). Eddie Hall and Mark Felix are other names that have made a living completing huge deadlifts. Pena has to be in the conversation now that he has completed a world record of his own.
Gabriel Pena was an alternate for the 2021 World’s Strongest Man competition. This year, he looks like he has a chance to compete with some of the other top competitors in the world. Confidence should be sky-high after a lift of this caliber and Pena will only continue to improve.
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Patrick Moore Will Not Compete During 2022 Season
Bodybuilder Patrick Moore announces he will not compete in 2022 to prepare for the following year.
Patrick Moore has competed twice in the last three weeks but this is something that we will not see again until 2023. The opportunity to qualify for the 2022 Olympia has begun and this is something that Moore will not attempt moving forward. Moore has announced that he will take the 2022 off to train and prepare for 2023.
Moore took to Instagram to make the announcement on Monday. The Men’s Open competitor is coming off a 10th place finish at the Legion Sports Fest Pro and came in 14th at the 2021 Olympia. Following his most recent appearance, Patrick Moore has decided to take a break.
“And that is a wrap for this season! Wanted to take a day to process all the experiences over the last 4 years…..prep after prep. Not taking any time off to actually grow. A lot of you have asked why I have never taken time off. For me the time is now. I don’t have a place on stage until 2023, and that may even be in question. For now, taking a step back and evaluating everything personally and professionally, is best. All of you have been absolutely amazing and it has been an honor to perform for you guys and motivate you all! I’ll be back to pumping out plenty of off-season content for you guys next week. Thank you guys for all the support! Let’s see what #thefuture holds!????”
It is unknown when Patrick Moore plans to return to action. The schedule for 2023 has not been released but the season usually begins with the Arnold Classic in the beginning of March. If Moore returns for that show, he will have close to a year and a half away from the stage. This would allow him to do the necessary training he feels is needed to improve.
The 2022 Olympia will take place next December in Las Vegas. Patrick Moore has appeared on stage at the biggest event of the year in 2019 and 2021. He won the 2019 California Pro to gain qualification and this was his only professional victory. Moore earned his Pro Card by winning the 2017 NPC USA competition and made his debut during the 2018 New York Pro.
Moore appeared on stage three times last year without securing a victory. After his recent stretch, Moore has decided to take some time off and this will allow him to make the improvements that he needs.
It will be interesting to see how Patrick Moore looks next time he appears on stage. The class of Men’s Open has been Big Ramy and Brandon Curry over the years. That is the level that competitors are trying to reach and it is not an easy task. Moore will have time to improve and make a statement next time he steps on stage.
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Following Big Ramy Olympia Win, Egyptian Preacher Forbids Bodybuilding
“I am not saying no to sports, but the rules of the Sharia ought to be respected when doing so… Awrah for men includes the body parts between their navel and knees, and it’s the entire body for women, except for their face and hands,” Rushdy said.
“I advise young men not to practice bodybuilding because of this and women should not participate in any competition that requires them to show parts of their bodies.”
While Abdullah Rushdy’s statements and issued fatwa is a very big deal – it’s not representative of all of Egypt. This is clear in the celebration videos that have gone viral upon Big Ramy returning to Egypt. It is also unclear whether or not Rushdy’s statements will affect Ramy’s personal outlook on bodybuilding. But Rushdy’s statements coming so close to an Egyptian bodybuilders iconic pro bodybuilding win has created a mini storm of attention for the time being.
If anything, this just further proves that Big Ramy’s rise to prominence in pro bodybuilding has had a massive impact for the Egyptian community. While bodybuilding might not be a mainstream sport in the United States – it is a deeply passionate sport across the globe. Ramy has stated that he will continue to reign as Olympia for years to come – it will be interesting to see if this brings more controversial attention in the years ahead.
Best Caffeine Free Pre-Workout For Clean Energy Boosts 2021
Maximize your exercise performance without the caffeine crash or jittery brain-drain.
When it comes to stimulants and the best pre workout supplements, there’s really no contest: everyone loves caffeine.
Sure, in our Adderall age, there are certainly more powerful stimulants available. However, for a more sustainable headrush with a limited risk of long-term issues, caffeine remains a reasonable choice for boosting performance, both mentally and physically, and caffeine free pre-workouts are great for this.
Because caffeine is associated with “feel good” performance enhancement, many pre-workout supplements offer generous amounts of caffeine in their formulas, as well as really great vitamins and minerals. However, many of these same supplements tend to mask their poor-quality ingredient forms and overall ineffectiveness with caffeine megadoses, making these failed supplements for those looking for a good caffeine free pre workout supplement.
A few common problems with these cheap, weak supplements include:
Jitters related to excess stimulation
Poor absorption due to excess caffeine
Low-grade creatine forms linked to gastric distress
Unhealthy, pointless synthetic flavors and artificial additives
And more. In other words, caffeine isn’t the only problem with today’s standard pre-workout formula; although, it does often distinguish effective caffeine free pre-workout stacks from ineffective formulas.
As a reliable “dopaminergic” brain booster, caffeine can be used to trick consumers into thinking an inferior, cheap pre-workout supplement is working as they misattribute the noticeable “feel good” feelings of caffeine to the formula’s efficacy.
In this guide, we cover the advantages of avoiding caffeine in your pre-workout stack, as well as how you can optimize yours with the best stim-free ingredients.
But before diving into all of that, here is a deep-dive analysis of Transparent Labs PreSeries Stim-Free Pre-Workout, the best all-in-one caffeine free pre workout.
Best Pre-Workout Without Caffeine: Transparent Labs PreSeries Stim-Free Pre-Workout
Transparent Labs Stim-Free Pre-Workout is a 100% transparent formula great for serious athletes and bodybuilders looking for a high-intensity workout experience without caffeine.
Working with key ingredients like citrulline malate, beta-alanine, taurine, and others, this is a great supplement for those intolerant or avoiding caffeine. With clinically-effective dosages, this is a safe supplement to provide for a host of benefits.
Altogether, Transparent Labs Stim-Free Pre-Workout works by:
Increasing nitric oxide to the muscles to support enhanced muscular blood flow and oxygenation, priming the “muscle pump” feel for every great workout.
Enhancing focus to give raise alertness so you stay engaged throughout the entire workout.
Boosting endurance by working as a buffer for lactic acid build up and giving you a great endurance boost.
Promoting lean muscle growth for increased strength and definition for better training, performance, and that desired aesthetic.
Plus, with a transparent label and safe, effective ingredients, you know exactly what you are putting into your body.
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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.
Formula Analysis
Citrulline Malate 2:1, 6,000mg
BCAA 2:1:1, 4,000mg
Beta-Alanine, 4,000mg
BetaPure Betaine Anhydrous, 2,500mg
Taurine, 1,300mg
L-Tyrosine, 1,000mg
Choline Bitartrate, 500mg
ElevATP Ancient Peat and Apple Fruit Extract, 150mg
BioPerine, 5mg
Huperzine A, 50mcg
Transparent Labs Stim-Free brings strength and endurance gains to a whole new level with a unique combination of highly potent, bioavailable, and caffeine-free pre-workout ingredients.
Compared to the standard hyper-caffeinated pre-workout supplements lining the shelves, this is a smarter, cleaner stack that provides a natural boost with all-natural, stim-free ingredients.
Plus, you don’t get those unwanted jitters or caffeine related side effects that typically ruin a great product. With no stimulants and a transparent label, this supplement also contains no artificial sweeteners, coloring, or preservatives and is gluten-free and non-GMO to truly maximize your athletic fitness and workout performance.
Shop Transparent Labs PreSeries Stim-Free Pre-Workout Here
Stack with Transparent Labs StrengthSeries Creatine HMB and CoreSeries Post-Workout
To maintain consistent progress with your anabolic gains, fat loss, and other fitness-related goals, stacking a caffeine free pre workout supplement with a post-workout supplement and a “rest day” stack can help. A more complete Transparent Labs stack would look like:
Stim-Free Pre-Workout– a caffeine-free pre-workout enhancer designed to boost nitric oxide, muscle strength, and endurance.
Post– a post-workout formula designed to promote anabolic muscle gains and protect against muscle breakdown.
Creatine HMB– a creatine supplement perfect for restoring depleted muscle tissue and increasing strength.
Transparent Labs CoreSeries Post-Workout
Formula Analysis
L-Glutamine, 5,000mg
Betaine Anhydrous, 2,500mg
L-Carnitine L-Tartrate, 2,000mg
Beta-Alanine, 2,000mg
Tart Cherry Powder, 500mg
Astragin, 25mg
Transparent Labs Post is a great post-workout supplement to maximize muscle growth and see results immediately. Working to optimize recovery and muscle repair, the body needs targeted nutrients to fully recharge that are backed by science. With Post, you get great ingredients working together for the best results.
Altogether, the benefits of Post include:
Bolster nitric oxide production
Reduce delayed-onset muscle soreness
Facilitate protein synthesis
Enhance insulin sensitivity
Prime your body for growth and recovery
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Transparent Labs CoreSeries Post is a great supplement to optimize recovery and muscle repair with 6 great ingredients. Paired well with any protein supplement, this can ensure big gains are met.
Transparent Labs StrengthSeries Creatine HMB
Formula Analysis
Creapure Creatine Monohydrate, 5,000mg
B-Hydroxy B-Methylbutyrate (HMB), 1,500mg
BioPerine Black Pepper Extract, 5mg
Transparent Labs Creatine HMB will work to boost performance without losing those hard-earned gains. The added ingredient of HMB along with creatine works in tandem to promote growth, recovery, and provide for the best results possible. BioPerine is exactly what you need to increase absorption so nothing goes to waste.
Altogether, the benefits of Creatine HMB include:
Promote strength and lean muscle
Increase endurance
Prevent lean muscle loss
Decrease fat mass
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Transparent Labs Creatine HMB is clean and effective for tackling all of your strength building needs. With no artificial additives or preservatives, what you get is pure creatine with added HMB for better strength.
The World’s Favorite Drug: Caffeine
Coffee, tea, soda, energy drinks, energy shots, pre workout supplements, fat loss supplements, nootropic supplements, energy-boosting gum pack—more and more, it seems like caffeine is sneaking its way into everything these days. And from a seller’s point of view, this makes sense: caffeine makes people feel great, and people buy things that make them feel good (1).
What’s more, caffeine makes people feel good in a reliable way that’s relatively safe to other habit-forming stimulants and quote-unquote “drugs.”
As a naturally occurring compound, caffeine is found in roughly sixty different plant species, including (2):
Coffee Beans
Tea Leaves
Cocoa Beans
Kola Nuts
Yerba Maté
Guarana Berries
Guayusa
Yaupon Holly
Which is interesting and all, but the more important question here is:
What Exactly Is Caffeine?
Caffeine, or 1,3,7-trimethylxanthine (if you want to get fancy with it), is an alkaloid, which means that its chemical structure is predominated by nitrogen. Pure caffeine is highly water-soluble and can, thus, act rapidly on the brain and body after ingestion without aid of fatty foods (as is the case with fat-soluble compounds) (3). Those sensitive to this strong stimulant would require a caffeine free pre workout for muscle building and lean muscle.
Structurally, caffeine is similar to adenosine, a compound that binds with adenosine receptors to induce cognitive drowsiness and fatigue. Which gives us the perfect segue into the more important question:
What Exactly Does Caffeine Do?
Caffeine, as a compound structurally similar to adenosine, binds to adenosine receptors to block the drowsiness of adenosine. In other words, caffeine achieves its stimulatory properties on the central nervous system (CNS) through its inhibitory effects on adenosine, resulting in a boost on:
Catecholamines – dopamine, norepinephrine, epinephrine, etc. (4).
Adrenal Activity– encouraging the release of stress hormone cortisol (5).
Dopamine Signaling – in high dosages (300+ mg), caffeine may increase the availability of dopamine receptors (6).
The Pros Vs. Cons Of Caffeine For Exercise
Several factors largely determine the advantageous vs. disadvantageous use of caffeine or caffeine free pre workout supplements for the best performance enhancement. However, perhaps the two most important factors are:
Dosage – the amount of caffeine per serving
Timing– when you take caffeine (i.e., morning or night?)
Caffeine Sensitivity– your personal tolerance to stimulants
Some people are more sensitive to caffeine than others, and therefore they require smaller dosages to reach peak effect. Others may feel like they need to guzzle a significant amount of caffeine just to reach their cognitive baseline so knowing the pros and cons is huge.
Pro #1 – Cognitive Performance
As a dopaminergic stimulant, caffeine may heighten mood and intensity for greater mental motivation in the gym. Taken prior to exercise, caffeine may help ward off mental fatigue in service of a more alert, more ready mindset.
Study: in a placebo-controlled study on caffeine consumption on judo athletes, morning caffeine ingestion was suggested to have “ergogenic properties with the potential to benefit performance, increase anxiety and vigor, and decrease the simple reaction time” (7).
Con #1 – Anxiety, Nervousness, and Jitteriness
Conversely, the mood- and intensity-boosting advantages of caffeine may also tip over into cognitive impairment by promoting anxiety, nervousness, and jitteriness, which is where a great caffeine free pre-workout would come in handy. Encouraging mental arousal, caffeine may often encourage too much arousal, throwing the mind into a scatterbrained state of anxiety that can be detrimental to athletic performance that requires cool composure.
Study: under conditions of anxiety disorder, caffeine consumption may exacerbate anxiety symptoms, potentially as a consequence of increased sensitivity to caffeine associated with anxiety disorder (8). Abstaining from caffeine altogether may significantly help maintain a level head under such conditions.
Pro #2 – Thermogenic Fat Loss
In addition to boosting cognitive arousal, caffeine’s stimulatory effects also seem to boost thermogenesis, or fat burning. By encouraging the activity of “fight or flight” catecholamines and stress hormones, caffeine seems to heighten the body’s energy expenditure capacity, potentially resulting in greater fat loss results during workouts.
Study: in one double-blind, placebo-controlled study, 100, 200, and 400 mg caffeine dosages were observed to determine what happened with thermogenic, metabolic, and cardio health measures. The results: caffeine dose-dependently increased thermogenic energy expenditure in association with increased plasma lactate and triglyceride levels (9).
Con #2 – Poor Sleep Quality
Nothing disrupts performance, endurance, and metabolic health quite like sleep deprivation. Contributing to a wide range of metabolic disorders and performance decrements, poor sleep quality is often associated with excess caffeine use and you won’t necessarily feel these effects with a caffeine free pre workout. And the relationship between the two is a downward spiral: caffeine promotes sleep deprivation, which encourages further caffeine use, and so on.
Study: comparing the sleep disruptive effects of caffeine administered at 0, 3, and 6 hours prior to bedtime, a group of researchers observed that “caffeine taken 6 hours before bedtime has important disruptive properties on sleep and provides empirical support for sleep hygiene recommendations to refrain from substantial caffeine use for a minimum of 6 hours prior to bedtime” (10).
Pro #3 – Vasoconstriction
Caffeine has a vasoconstrictive effect, meaning that this stimulant promotes the constriction of blood vessels, thereby decreasing blood flow. While this sounds like a negative (as we’ll get into in “Con #3” below), caffeine’s vasoconstriction may potentially have a pain-relieving effect on headaches, namely headaches associated with excessive flow to the brain.
Study: as one study on caffeine’s vascular mechanisms of action suggests, “caffeine has some cardiovascular properties and effects which could be considered beneficial,” (11) involving the association between decreased cerebral circulation and migrainous headache.
Con #3 – Vasoconstriction
One of the main reasons we take pre-workout supplements: boost circulation. And so, naturally, the vasoconstriction of caffeine are typically viewed as a negative when it comes to performance enhancement. Whether we’re talking nootropic cognitive enhancers or bodybuilder pre-workout stacks, the goal is to boost blood flow, not inhibit it and caffeine free pre workouts are great for this.
Study: in one 2009 study on the effects of daily caffeine use on cerebral blood flow, caffeine was shown to reduce cerebral blood flow by an average 27%, (12) which may significantly impact cognition and goes against the vasodilatory aims of pre-workout N.O. boosters.
Okay, So Is Caffeine A Legitimate Performance Enhancer?
Based on the study’s compiled above, the best performance enhancement potential of caffeine significantly depends upon how much caffeine you use, your personal caffeine tolerance, and when you take caffeine (i.e., how close to bedtime) so if sensitive, a caffeine free pre workout would be the way to go.
Of course, much of this is common sense.
But with a better understanding of how caffeine affects your mental and physical performance, you may make a smarter decision as to whether or not you want a caffeine free pre-workout supplement (or any stack for that matter).
An Optional Source Of Pre-Workout Caffeine: Transparent Labs PreSeries BULK Pre-Workout
Code GENIRON10 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.
Transparent Labs BULK is the best bulking pre-workout for those looking to gain size and increase muscle mass. With 19 active ingredients and a transparent label, this supplement contains zero artificial sweeteners, flavors, or other additives for only the best in terms of your training and performance.
Top 5 Non-Caffeinated Pre-Workout Ingredients
Whether you’re looking at a caffeinated or caffeine free pre-workout supplement, some of the best pre-workout ingredients you need to look for include:
#1) Creatine
An organic compound highly concentrated in tissue, creatine works as precursor fuel for the natural production of ATP energy, a cleaner, more natural energy source than the stimulatory effects of caffeine. As a dietary supplement, it boosts exercise performance by (13,14):
Replenishing exercise-depleted ATP energy
Stimulating insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1)
Buffering muscular lactic acid build-up for better endurance
Because creatine concentrates in muscle tissue, ongoing supplementation is required for creatine to reach peak saturation and, thus, peak ergogenic effect.
Best Pre-Workout Creatine: Creapure® pH10
Creapure® pH10 is 99.5% pure creatine monohydrate
pH-balanced to enhance bioavailability
Clean and easy-to-absorb to reduce bloating and gastric distress
#2) Beta-Alanine
A well-known sports nutrition aid, namely for the skin-tingling sensation associated with it, Beta-Alanine replenishes levels of carnosine, a dipeptide molecule, in muscle tissue, namely fast-twitch fibers for increased strength and power during high-intensity exercise. Consistently loading and maintaining, carnosine benefits performance and recuperation by (15):
Delaying onset fatigue and failure
Enhancing overall strength and stamina
Neutralizing exercise-induced free radicals
Inhibiting advanced glycation end-products (AGEs)
Buffering the impact of damaging acids
And more. The strength and endurance benefits of beta-alanine are unmatched and pair incredibly well with the endurance-boosting advantages of creatine supplementation and caffeine free pre workout.
Best Pre-Workout Beta-Alanine: CarnoSyn®
CarnoSyn® is the only beta-alanine with NDI (New Dietary Ingredient) status
Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS)
Well-backed by years of clinical research
#3) L-Citrulline + L-Glutathione
L-Citrulline is an amino acid that, once absorbed, converts in the body to L-arginine, a nitric oxide (N.O.) booster that enhances muscular circulation, strength, and growth. In other words, L-citrulline works as your go-to pre-workout “muscle pump” booster and will help with mind-muscle connection.
Additionally, L-Glutathione is an antioxidant enzyme that, when paired with L-citrulline, benefits performance in a few ways. Combined, L-citrulline + L-glutathione work by (16):
Promoting oxygen delivery to tissue
Protecting muscle against oxidative stress
Sustaining L-citrulline’s N.O.-boosting bioactivities
Improving energy and anabolism
Strengthening immunity against gym-related challenges
And more. Stacking these two compounds may significantly boost performance and protect against the deleterious side effects of boosted performance.
Best Pre-Workout L-Citrulline + L-Glutathione: Setria® Performance Blend
Setria® Performance Blend is made by Kyowa Hakko Bio Co. Ltd., a world leader in supplement development
Kyowa Quality® L-Citrulline is exceptionally clean and bioavailable
Setria® is an advanced glutathione form that pairs well with Kyowa Quality® L-Citrulline
#4) Maritime Pine Bark Extract
Formed by the harsh salty climes of the sea, maritime pine bark extract supplies proanthocyanidins, a potent class of antioxidants that:
Promote endothelial production of nitric oxide (N.O.)
Protect muscle tissue during intense training
Boost long-term cognitive attentional performance
Look for maritime pine bark extract standardized to 95% proanthocyanidins for optimal results with this unique performance enhancing herbal extract.
#5) Himalayan Pink Salt
Hydration is key to muscle growth, and, yet, when it comes to rehydration, we tend to overlook the importance of electrolytes to sustaining healthy H2O levels. As a natural source of electrolyte trace minerals, Himalayan Pink Salt is a smart choice for restoring sweat-depleted electrolytes when taken in a pre-workout context.
Conclusion
Frankly, our caffeine options are far from limited. If you want caffeine, you can get some. Odds are you’re enjoying a hot cup (or a cold can) of caffeine right now, as you read this, so looking for a caffeine free pre workout or one with caffeine is the choice you have to make.
However, what is hard to come by is a real-deal health and fitness supplement that genuinely supports athletic health and fitness. And with its all-natural, hard-hitting ergogenics packed in its caffeine-free pre-workout formula, Transparent Labs PreSeries Stim-Free Pre-Workout certainly fits the bill.
What’s more, Transparent Labs Stim-Free can be synergistically stacked with other top supplements in Transparent Labs Creatine HMB and Post-Workout.
The point isn’t to completely force you into a caffeine-free workout, but to grant you the option. Head to Transparent Labs to see more formulas with PreSeries Stim-Free Pre-Workout.
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.
*Images courtesy of Transparent Labs and Envato
References
Cappelletti, S.; et al. (2015). “Caffeine: Cognitive and Physical Performance Enhancer or Psychoactive Drug?”.
Evans J et al. Caffeine. [Updated 2020 Mar 22]. StatPearls. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2020 Jan.
Heckman MA et al. Caffeine (1, 3, 7-trimethylxanthine) in Foods: A Comprehensive Review on Consumption, Functionality, Safety, and Regulatory Matters. J Food Sci. 2010 Apr; 75(3): R77-87.
Papadelis C et al. Effects of Mental Workload and Caffeine on Catecholamines and Blood Pressure Compared to Performance Variations. Brain Cogn. 2003 Feb; 51(1): 143-54.
Lovallo WR et al. Cortisol Responses to Mental Stress, Exercise, and Meals Following Caffeine Intake in Men and Women. Pharmacol Biochem Behav. 2006 Mar; 83(3): 441-7.
Volkow ND et al. Caffeine increases striatal dopamine D2/D3receptor availability in the human brain. Transl Psychiatry. 2015 Apr; 5(4): e549.
Souissi M et al. Effects of Morning Caffeine Ingestion on Mood States, Simple Reaction Time, and Short-Term maximal Performance on Elite Judoists. Asian J Sports Med. 2012 Sep; 3(3): 161-168.
Bruce MS, Lader M. Caffeine Abstention in the Management of Anxiety Disorders. Psychol Med. 1989 Feb; 19(1): 211-4.
Astrup A et al. Caffeine: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study of Its Thermogenic, Metabolic, and Cardiovascular Effects in Healthy Volunteers. Am J Clin Nutr. 1990 May; 51(5): 759-67.
Drake C et al. Caffeine Effects on Sleep Taken 0, 3, or 6 Hours before Going to Bed. J Clin Sleep Med. 2013 Nov 15; 9(11): 1195-1200.
Echeverri D et al. Caffeine’s Vascular Mechanisms of Action. Int J Vasc Med. 2010; 2010: 834060.
Addicott MA et al. The Effect of Daily Caffeine Use on Cerebral Blood Flow: How Much Caffeine Can We Tolerate?Hum Brain Mapp. 2009 Oct; 30(10): 3102-14.
Cooper R et al. Creatine supplementation with specific view to exercise/sports performance: an update. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2012; 9: 33.
Oliver JM et al. Oral Creatine Supplementation’s Decrease of Blood Lactate During Exhaustive, Incremental Cycling. Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab. 2013 Jun; 23(3): 252-8.
Hobson RM et al. Effects of β-alanine supplementation on exercise performance: a meta-analysis. Amino Acids. 2012 Jul; 43(1): 25-37.
McKinley-Barnard S et al. Combined L-citrulline and Glutathione Supplementation Increases the Concentration of Markers Indicative of Nitric Oxide Synthesis. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2015 Jun 10; 12: 27.
Brandon Hendrickson Profile & Stats
The biography, life, and accomplishments of Brandon Hendrickson
Brandon Hendrickson is a professional bodybuilder in the Men’s Physique Division. Since earning his pro card in 2013, he has continued his dominance competing at events like the New York Pro, Arnold Classic, and Mr. Olympia, among many other notable events.
Below is a complete breakdown of his profile, stats, biography, training and diet regimens.
Full Name: Brandon Hendrickson
Weight
Height
Date Of Birth
185-195 lbs.
5’8”
06/16/1987
Division
Era
Nationality
Men’s Physique
2010
American
Biography
Branon Hendrickson is from Chicago and always enjoyed lifting on the side while playing sports like wrestling, track and field, and football. He always wanted to model as a young child and while going to college, he also worked with a modeling agency. As fate would have it, he soon came to love lifting and fitness became more than just a hobby, but a part of his life.
Brandon earned his pro card in 2013 after winning the NPC National Championships that same year. Since then, Brandon has competed with the best, winning top events like Mr. Olympia and the Arnold Classic. With a large following on social media, he posts workouts and plenty of photos to keep his fans engaged.
Training
Brandon’s workout routine covers all those muscle groups with great exercises to target your muscles to grow and really build definition.
Leg Day
Shoulders & Arms
Lateral Raise: 3 sets, 12 reps
Reverse Machine Press: 3 sets,
Upright Row: 3 sets, 8 reps
Front Raise: 3 sets, 12 reps
Triceps Pushdown: 3 sets, 10 reps
Machine Dips: 3 sets, 10 reps
DB Triceps Kickbacks: 3 sets, 12 reps
Concentration Curl: 3 sets, 10 reps
Single Arm Machine Curl: 3 sets, 10 reps
Alternating Dumbbell Curl: 3 sets, 12 reps
EZ Bar Curl: 3 sets, 10 reps
Chest Day
Machine Press: 3 sets, 10 reps
Pec Deck: 3 sets, 12 reps
Bench Press: 3 sets, 10 reps
DB Flys: 3 sets, 10 reps
Push Press: 3 sets, 8 reps
Back Day
Low Cable Row: 4 sets, 12 reps
One Arm Row: 4 sets, 12 reps
Underhand Row: 4 sets, 10 reps
Lat Pulldowns: 4 sets, 10 reps
Nutrition
Brandon obviously takes his nutrition seriously, eating only clean and whole foods, but what any serious bodybuilder does is work to make sure they are getting adequate amounts of the right food. Important foods in Brandon’s diet are eggs, lean meats, beef, green vegetables, sweet potato, brown rice, fruits, and whatever supplements he sees fit, most notably, a protein powder.
Supplementation
When it comes to a solid supplementation routine, having the right supplements on your shelf and ready to go can greatly influence many of your gains. Looking for some staples, definitely check out protein powders, pre-workout, and intra-workout BCAAs, as these will offer great benefits to every single one of your workouts. For those looking for that added edge, and of course dependent on your goals, creatine, mass gainers, and fat burners are important supplements to check out as well. And to stay as healthy as possible, a multivitamin will give you those important vitamins and minerals so you never suffer a deficiency.
Competition History
2021 Mr. Olympia, 1st (Men’s Physique)
2020 Mr. Olympia, 1st (Men’s Physique)
2020 Arnold Classic, 2nd
2019 Mr. Olympia, 4th (Men’s Physique)
2018 Jicheng Classic Sanya Pro, 1st
2018 Japan Pro, 1st
2018 Asian Grand Prix Pro, 1st
2018 Mr. Olympia, 1st (Men’s Physique)
2018 Salt City Showdown Pro, 2nd
2018 Governor’s Cup Pro, 1st
2018 Hawaii Pro, 1st
2018 Arnold Classic, 3rd
2017 Mr. Olympia, 3rd (Men’s Physique)
2017 Arnold Classic, 3rd
2016 Mr. Olympia, 4th (Men’s Physique)
2016 Arnold Classic, 1st
2015 Mr. Olympia, 5th (Men’s Physique)
2015 Tampa Pro, 1st
2015 Mile High Pro, 4th
2015 New York Pro, 7th
2015 Western Cup Pro, 8th
2014 Dallas Pro, 7th
2014 Tampa Pro, 6th
2014 Mile High Pro, 7th
2013 NPC National Championships, 1st
2013 Junior Championships, 7th
Mohamed El Emam: Ronnie Coleman’s Best Package Would Easily Win Olympia Today
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Mohamed El Emam believes no bodybuilder currently competing would be able to beat Ronnie Coleman at his best.
Whenever we have a chance to interview a pro bodybuilder for our GI Exclusives, we always ask them for their picks of the best bodybuilders of all time. Each person’s list can reveal some insight into their own goals and careers. At the same time, there is also often a commonality between each list. Certain competitors so impressive that they can’t be ignored. Ronnie Coleman is one of those athletes. For Mohamed El Emam, Ronnie is the absolute best of all time. He goes a step further by claiming that no modern bodybuilder today could defeat Ronnie in his prime. In our latest GI Exclusive, Mohamed El Emam claims Ronnie Coleman would easily win the Mr. Olympia today – including against current champ Big Ramy.
It’s no secret that Ronnie Coleman has the reputation as one of the sport’s best bodybuilders. That’s for good reason. Ronnie solidified the mass monster era and displayed a package so massive and so conditioned – that it seemed almost inhuman. To this day, few have been able to match that kind of shocking physique. It’s for this reason that Mohamed El Emam believes Ronnie is the single greatest bodybuilder of all time.
In fact, Mohamed El Emam believes that Ronnie Coleman’s physique is so impressive – that he would easily win the Mr. Olympia today if he were magically in his prime. That’s an example of how legendary Ronnie’s physique has become in bodybuilding. Some believe he has yet to be matched.
Big Ramy, our current and now two time Mr. Olympia champion, has often been compared to Ronnie Coleman. They both bring mass monster size (even compared to an entire division now packed with mass monsters). Both Ronnie and Big Ramy are unnaturally huge compared to the competition. In recent years, Ramy has also gotten his conditioning under control to look even closer to Ronnie’s impressive package during his prime years.
That being said, Mohamed El Emam cannot but Big Ramy on his list of best bodybuilders just yet. It’s only been a short while that Ramy has been champion – and it remains to be seen if he could maintain the conditioning needed to reign in the long term. El Emam believes that in five more years we can look back and more accurately evaluate Big Ramy.
Even still, Mohamed El Emam is very clear in his statement that Ronnie Coleman could “easily win the Mr. Olympia today.” That includes Big Ramy. So despite Ramy often being compared to Ronnie – El Emam still doesn’t quite put Ramy in the same category. In a way, that’s a major factor that’s been missing from the sport the past few years – a new mind blowing step forward in the form of a competitor.
In some ways, this makes for more exciting competitions. We’ve had more Mr. Olympia champions in the past four years than usual. Big Ramy just earned his repeat victory but before that each year brought us new champions including Shawn Rhoden, Brandon Curry, and most recently Big Ramy. There’s been no knockout champion. Even Ramy’s 2021 physique was a slight notch down from 2020. There were those who thought Brandon Curry would rise for revenge and reclaim his title. That didn’t happen – but the fact that it was close showcases how there is no “Ronnie Coleman level” monsters on the stage currently.
You can watch Mohamed El Emam break down his adoration for Ronnie Coleman in more detail (plus his other top bodybuilder picks) in our latest GI Exclusive interview segment above!
Eddie Hall Challenges Hafthor Bjornsson To $100k Charity Boxing Match
Eddie Hall recently challenged Hafthor Bjornsson to a boxing match to raise money for charity.
The boxing match between Eddie Hall and Hafthor Bjornsson has not been able to happen just yet. This was originally scheduled for Sept. 18 of this year but it was forced to be postponed because of an injury that Hall suffered. Now, the strongmen could put a wager on their fight whenever they do step in the ring.
In a recent YouTube video on his page, Hall proposed a deal to make this fight for charity. The loser would have to donate $100,000 to the charity of the winner’s choice. Hall continued by calling out promoters to decide on the venue and when the fight would take place.
Hall suffered a torn bicep, which forced his to step away from the September fight. He addressed that his bicep is fully reattached and that the surgery and rehab was a success.
“In two years since we’ve signed the contract, I haven’t seen a single punch from you that’s made me think, ‘oh, that one would hurt.” Eddie Hall said.
“You give this vibe of confidence which I want to call upon. If you’re that confident, let’s do a little wager between ourselves. If you’re that confident, why don’t we do, the winner gets a $100,000 to their choice of charity. So if I win, you pay a $100,000 to my choice of charity. If you win, I pay $100,000 to your choice of charity.”
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The confidence that Eddie Hall showed in this video is based off his opinion that Hafthor Bjornsson’s boxing ability has not progressed since the two originally decided to fight. Bjornsson ended up fighting Devon Larratt and this fight ended in a first-round knockout. This was not a surprising outcome as Larratt is an arm-wrestling competitor and did not have much time to prepare for this fight.
It is not surprising to see Hall as confident as he is. Even during his rehab process, Hall has remained in the gym and has been working on perfecting his skills. While he was doing this, Bjornsson has also continued training and has had the opportunity to go up against live competition in the ring.
There will be no shortage of a storyline when these two eventually link up for what is being promoted as “the heaviest boxing matching history.”
There is no doubt that the two strongmen will step into the ring at some point. They have a history in powerlifting competitions and that will continue in boxing.The question remains, when and where? There is a chance for the two to meet in March of the upcoming year.
If this is the case, it would be interesting to see if there is a wager and how much it is for. Eddie Hall has already made an offer and now it is up to Hafthor Bjornsson to make the next move.
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