Blog
WATCH: Rae-Ann Coughenour-Miller Sets Female Bench Press World Record Of 274.4kg
Rae-Ann Coughenour-Miller recently set the all-time female bench press world record of 274.4kg.
Records are meant to be broken and over the weekend, a long-standing female record was surpassed. The 2021 Metal Militia (MM) National Power Lifting Invitational took place from July 17-18 at the Bayfront Convention Center in Erie, PA. Rae-Ann Coughenour-Miller stole the show when she set a new world record for female bench press with a 274.4kg (605lb) lift.
Becca Swanson held the previous record of 272.5kg (600.8lb). This was set back on March 8, 2008 at the 2008 American Powerlifting Federation Big Iron In-House Open. Swanson was at the top of the lift for an eye-opening 13 years and four months. Coughneour-Miller was able to set a new record with a lift that was 1.9kg more than Swanson.
Entering the weekend, Coughenour-Miller’s personal best at a competition was 258.5kg (570lb), which took place back in April at the 2020 MM Power Wars. The preparation for this event and eventual world record was not smooth sailing.
Rae-Ann Coughenour-Miller addressed some difficulties in her recent Instagram post.
It began with her husband undergoing multiple back surgeries. This forced her to miss out on some training time and when she did train, it was by herself. She skipped out on heavy days and struggled to lift 505lb. Coughenour-Miller’ opening lift at the MM National Power Lifting Invitational was 575lb. She ended up with the heaviest bench press of all-time and made sure to acknowledge Swanson.
“So with no expectations and no idea what to open with we set off for Erie. I decided to go with my original opener of 575. I ended up with 605 lbs. The biggest bench in history. I want to acknowledge @bigbeccaswanson. She has been in my corner for a long time. She was, is and always will be the strongest woman ever,” Coughenour-Miller wrote on instagram.
As part of the Anderson Powerlifting team, Rae-Ann Coughenour-Miller is featured with some of the other top lifters in the sport. This includes Jimmy Kolb, who holds the overall world record for heaviest bench press at 508kg (1,120lb).
Rae-Ann Coughenour-Miller is one of the top powerlifters going and has done a lot of winning since 2013. She has won gold in 18 of her last 22 sanctioned powerlifting competitions. There will certainly be more added to the collection in future competitions.
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Best Grip Strengthener Exercises For Optimal Grip Strength
These grip strengthener exercises are perfect for enhancing grip so you never suffer through another big lift again.
Our ability to grip objects, both for sport specific movements and those that are more functional, is often overlooked but these best grip strengthener exercises can greatly affect the way you grip things. Working on increased grip strength will aid in our ability to build overall strength and is one of the most important tools we as athletes have.
We often times don’t think about the constant strain and pressure we put on our hands and finger muscles but every day we consistently rely on them for vital movements. Working on better grip will increase training and performance, but also aid in our overall physical health as we seek the best for our bodies. As a tool to increase physical performance and function, this will allow us to lift heavier thus giving us the best benefit to withstand any stress and strain caused by exercise and everyday movements (1).
Let’s take a look at the best grip strengthener exercises to enhance our grip as best we can. With the right exercise, your grip strength will improve beyond belief and you’ll never have to worry about a weak grip again. We all know the importance of it, so let’s start putting an emphasis on it.
Benefits Of Having A Strong Grip
Having a strong grip will ensure that you get the most out of each and every lift. Your ability to grip and the strength it requires to hold an object can greatly affect all sorts of exercises and ensure better functional movements as well. Something we take for granted, showing your muscles some love will allow them to grip objects better so you never sacrifice any gains.
Benefits of a strong grip includes:
Ability to perform many exercises: A strong grip will allow to perform a wide range of exercises so you aren’t limited to only those that you can grip well.
Larger forearms: Your forearms will ensure a better grip since these muscles are required to apply that grip (2).
Injury prevention: A strong grip will limit the number of other muscles required so as to use weaker ones as compensation (3).
Lift more weight: A good, strong, stable grip will allow you to lift more weight so you see those desired gains you want most.
Best Grip Strengthener Exercises
Grip Clench
Using a spring loaded grip trainer is great for it creates resistance and can be used at any time, either during your workout, at the office, or while watching your favorite show.
Grab the grip trainer in one hand and squeeze for your desired number of reps. You can also hold for your desired amount of time to really give your grip a test.
Plate Pinchers
These are great for increasing strength in a pinch grip, which is used mainly for those movements used with your thumb and fingers.
Hold plates between your thumb and fingers for a desired amount of time. Drop them to the floor and repeat for your desired number of reps.
Towel Pull-Ups
A great compound movement, this works upper body muscles with an emphasis on your grip. Similar to the traditional pull-up, it requires you to use a towel as your primary tool.
Wrap a towel around the bar and grab each side with each hand. Perform a pull-up with your desired amount of reps.
Farmer’s Carries
These will work your core strength and requires the utmost grip as you walk for whatever distance you desire. This will work your shoulders, forearms, and hips to give you a great exercise.
Grab either dumbbells, kettlebells, or a bar and set your desired weight. Engaging your core, walk for a set distance or period of time making sure to not lose form.
Band Extensions
For these, you can use a professional band or even a rubber band or thicker rubber bracelet.
Wrapping the band around your fingers, lengthen and contract your fingers spreading the band farther apart. You will feel the pressure and know you are getting a good workout.
Featured Supplement For Gains
When it comes to increasing our gains, having a good supplementation routine is vital for boosting all areas of our training and performance. Whether that be a pre-workout for energy and pumps or an intra-workout to continue that energy supply and burst through fatigue, supplements are vital for our growth. But a protein powder can ensure we see great growth and recovery (4), especially after some of these awesome grip strengthening exercises.
Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate
Code GENIRON10 For 10% Off
Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate is organic, non-GMO, and gluten-free, boasting a great formula for a top protein powder. With nothing artificial added, this is a clean protein that is easier on your stomach.
Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey boasts an impressive array of eco-friendly accomplishments. It’s organic, non-GMO, and gluten-free. There are no artificial sweeteners — a rarity in a world full of whey protein powder, which are almost always filled with chemical flavorings to disguise the chalkiness of protein. There are also no artificial colorings or preservatives added. If you have a sensitive stomach, allergies, or just care about the environment, this is an excellent choice for you and your body weight goals and is easy to digest compared to a whey concentrate.
Price: $59.00
Use the promo code GENIRON10 for 10% off! Check out our individual review for Transparent Labs 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate here!
Wrap Up
A good, strong grip means bigger gains. This is because we can tackle any and all exercises that may come our way so we don’t limit ourselves and rely on other muscles that may be weaker. Injury prevention matched with better overall physical performance should be an easy reason or two to work on tackling any grip strength goals. These best grip strengthener exercises can help us tackle all of our grip needs so we get the most out of each and every exercise. Give these a try and see what they can do for you as you look to really boost your grip strength.
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
Beyer, Sebastian E.; Sanghvi, Mihir M.; Aung, Nay; Hosking, Alice; Cooper, Jackie A.; Paiva, Jose Miguel; Lee, Aaron M.; Fung, Kenneth; Lukaschuk, Elena; Carapella, Valentina; Mittleman, Murray A.; Brage, Soren; Piechnik, Stefan K.; Neubauer, Stefan; Petersen, Steffan E. (2018). “Prospective association between handgrip strength and cardiac structure and function in UK adults”. (source)
Szymanski, David J.; Syzmanski, Jessica M.; Molloy, Joseph M.; Pascoe, David D. (2004). “Effect of 12 Weeks of Wrist and Forearms Training on High School Baseball Players”. (source)
Devich, Robert; Fowler, John (2019). “Preventing Overuse Hand, Arm, and Shoulder Injuries in EMS”. (source)
Pasiakos, Stefan M.; McLellan, Tom M.; Lieberman, Harris R. (2015). “The effects of protein supplements on muscle mass, strength, and aerobic and anaerobic power in healthy adults: a systematic review”. (source)
Melvin Anthony Defends Chad Nicholls & Other Gurus: It’s Not Their Fault If Bodybuilders Take Too Much
[embedded content]
Melvin Anthony shares his personal experience working with Chad Nicholls and defends against accusations that gurus are killing bodybuilders.
Chad Nicholls and other bodybuilding gurus have been subject to criticism in recent years. There have been claims that the kind of supplementation and protocols they advise is too risky. That gurus are not doctors and should not be providing athletes with drug protocols that could end up endangering the athlete. Melvin Anthony is a bodybuilder who worked directly with Chad Nicholls and believes that these accusations are false. In our latest GI Exclusive interview, Melvin Anthony defends Chad Nicholls and other gurus – claiming that the risk comes from bodybuilders not following protocol.
In the world of pro bodybuilding, the human body is like a machine that needs the perfect set of elements to run perfectly. Bodybuilders will spend their entire lives trying to determine what works perfect for their own individual bodies. Not only that – but how to then push the limits and take their mass and physique to the next level. Bodybuilding gurus help aid in that process. They provide knowledgable insight into how to train, diet and supplement.
The unspoken truth is that this also involves advice on performance enhancing drugs and other substances. Over the years, these gurus have been praised for their knowledge and the results seen in their clients. They help bring athletes to new heights. But more recently, criticism has been laid at gurus for the dangers posed by their supplementation and protocol advice. Should a guru be held responsible if a health emergency happens to one of their clients because of the very protocol they recommended?
Melvin Anthony caught word of the recent allegations against gurus like Chad Nicholls. The claims go so far as to say he and other gurus like him are killing people. That they are drug dealers with no real medical experience. That they should be held responsible. Anthony disagrees. In fact, he has directly worked with Chad Nicholls. From his experience, Nicholls was nothing but knowledgable and responsible. He always took health into consideration when putting together a protocol for Anthony.
Melvin Anthony believes that the blame thrown towards bodybuilding gurus have been blown out of proportion. Yes, there is always an inherent risk in being a pro bodybuilder. But he also believes that many of the medical emergencies or tragic deaths are not due to the gurus – but the athletes themselves. A guru can only recommend a training program or drug protocol. When the bodybuilder goes home – there’s no telling whether or not that person really follows it. If the bodybuilder takes more than recommended and something bad happens, the guru is not directly responsible.
More than that, a bodybuilder can also not be transparent or truthful about their own lifestyle. A drug protocol might be recommended based on the current diet and training the athlete is doing. But if the athlete is actually not being truthful about their diet, or perhaps their own medical history, then the recommendation by the guru is based off of half truths. In this case, again, the guru is not responsible.
Melvin Anthony believes that this kind of miscommunication is what is largely to blame for medical issues with bodybuilders. He thinks that the responsibility lies with the athlete at the end of the day. No one is forcing them to do anything and, more importantly, if they don’t follow directions to a tee – it’s beyond the guru’s control.
You can watch Melvin Anthony go into detail about his experience with Chad Nicholls and his opinion on bodybuilding gurus in our latest GI Exclusive interview segment above.
Iraqi Heavyweight Champion Bodybuilder Salah Hussein Has Reportedly Died
Salah Hussein, famous bodybuilder from Iraq, has reportedly passed away.
Salah Hussein, the former heavyweight champion in Iraq, has reportedly passed away due to a brain stroke. The news has started to spread on social media and was first reported on Instagram by Bashir.Online.
“Salah Hussein, the famous Iraqi heavyweight champion, died of a brain stroke. He is a familiar name to Iranians because he once came to Tehran for participating in the Asian competition of the year and went on stage in the heavyweight category in freedom hall. Rest In Peace.”
Salah Hussein was one of the biggest names in bodybuilding in Iraq. He began making a name for himself in 2010 and worked his way up to being the IFBB Super Heavyweight World champion. During the Asian Games in 2010 in Tehran, Iran, Hussein helped Iraq place second in the competition behind Iran.
This is where Salah Hussein competed against Hassan Rahnamayyan and it sparked a friendly rivalry. Rahnamayyan, who is a champion from Iran, took to Instagram to tribute Hussein and express sadness.
“I can’t believe it,” Rahnamayyan wrote on Instagram. He continued:
“Our friendship began in 2010 competition on the stage of the Asian competition in Tehran, when I was invited by my dear friend Haitham Musavi and the presidency of Iraqi Federation as a guest to the Iraqi Technical Committee for the National Team Selection Competition. I was added and went to Iraqi Kurdistan in 2017, how much we messed with each other, he said if you are right, put a match again in Iraq, I will catch you this time, I said that I told you to get up for the Diamond Cup competition.”
“I’m writing these, my heart hurts, so that we can appreciate each other as long I will always remember you my friend. Rip my friend.”
Generation Iron will continue to update this piece as more information becomes available as no official source has confirmed the death or details at this time.
Generation Iron send out condolences to the friends and family of Salah Hussein during this difficult time. For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Chris Bumstead Has Put On Some Serious Muscle in the Off Season
Chris Bumstead is looking impressive in his off season Olympia prep.
Classic Physique Olympia champion Chris Bumstead has shown some incredible muscle gains in prep for the 2021 show. The gains he’s made in the office season have been truly impressive.
Just because you’re the champ doesn’t mean you should take things easy. In fact, once you become the champ it’s only the beginning of your journey. It’s harder to remain the champ than it is to become the champ in the first place. It’s all about refusing to rest on your laurels and continue to grind as if you were still an amateur working your way up the latter. Chris Bumstead has come to understand this well and has pushed his body and mind to the next level after becoming Classic Physique Olympia champion.
A student of the game with an undeniable passion for bodybuilding, Chris Bumstead has pushed the envelope in his training. Working alongside brother-in-law Iain Valliere, Bumstead was able to achieve his ultimate goal of becoming an Olympia champion. With achieving such a lofty goal his new mission has become very simple: continue to win for as long as possible.
With that in mind Chris Bumstead has pushed his training to the next level. He’s been prepping hard to defend his title at the 2021 Olympia this October and has shown clear signs of improvement. The Classic Physique Olympia champion has packed on a great deal of new muscle onto his frame and it could prove to be the biggest factor in a repeat performance this year.
Massive Gains
A recent post on Instagram showcased just how massive Chris Bumstead has become.
With this level of muscle added to his frame you can certainly bet that Chris Bumstead will have some impressive musculature on display when he cuts weight and steps on stage.
Are you impressed with Chris Bumstead and the gains he’s made in the off season.
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Managing Editor at Generation Iron, Jonathan Salmon is a writer, martial arts instructor, and geek culture enthusiast. Check out his YouTube, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and Sound Cloud for in-depth MMA analysis.
George Farah Believes Being Shot Is A Main Reason He Got Cancer
[embedded content]
George Farah recounts the story of being shot and how he believes it relates to his later cancer diagnosis.
George Farah has lived many lives, almost literally. He’s nearly died twice. Once when he was shot in a bizarre wrong place, wrong time incident. And again later when he flatlined during a dramatic moment battling cancer. It’s at once tragic and miraculous what he’s been and survived through. That’s why we asked him to recount the story of being shot – which he surprisingly connects to later getting cancer. In our latest GI Exclusive interview, George Farah explains why he believes beings hot later led to him having cancer.
It’s well known at this point that George Farah was shot in an accidental mishap. It’s also well known that he was diagnosed with cancer and later (thankfully) recovered. He’s been through a lot. What’s great about Farah is that he’s a talker – and he’s completely open about discussing both the shooting incident and his diagnosis and battle with cancer. During our recent video conversation – we asked him to recount the moment he was shot and what that experience was like.
He briefly explained how he was misidentified as someone else – whom the shooter was gunning for. It was a “wrong place, wrong time” kind of situation. He also describes how traumatic the entire fallout was. He wouldn’t wish that kind of near death shooting experience to happen to anyone. Most people watching this video will likely agree. No one wants to be shot.
But the interesting bit of this story comes from what George Farah says afterwards. While he has no direct evidence, he believes that being shot is what eventually led to his later cancer diagnosis. He believes that having led pierce through your body as a foreign object is not good for your health (obviously).
But what he means more specifically, is that small fragments of the lead were most likely not able to be removed. That is then settling and flowing through his body in areas like his intestines. He thinks this kind of toxic and foreign material in his body is one of the main reasons he eventually had cancer.
“Because of that gunshot and because of those bullet fragments they left in me – that’s probably one of the main reasons I got cancer,” George Farah claims in our interview. He continues:
“I truly, truly believe, you know, just like you know lead is not good. That’s why if you have a house with lead, you have to paint it because it’s cancer, whatever, it’s not good… so imagine you have lead in your intestines and your rectum and all those places. They couldn’t take everything out. I think that’s one of the reasons.”
It’s an interesting theory and one that he whole hardily believes. Ultimately he tries not to dwell on it much. As he says it himself, he’s been “dead a couple of times.” He believes that there is a greater plan of fate that brings him through it. He’s grateful to be alive. It’s also a big reason why he’s changed his attitude about health in bodybuilding in our past interview segments. He knows what it’s like to almost lose life. Anything that one can do to extend life and avoid health risks should be taken seriously.
You can watch George Farah go into full detail about being shot and his cancer diagnosis in our latest GI Exclusive interview segment above!
Julius Maddox and Danial Zamani Hit Impressive Bench Press Numbers Over 750Lbs
Julius Maddox and Danial Zamani put up some insane numbers in their recent training.
Julius Maddox and Danial Zamani both hit some insane bench press numbers in recent training. Both powerlifters are on the hunt to hit 800lbs and cement themselves in history. Both have recently put up some insane numbers over 750Lbs (340kgs).
Julius Maddox has been hard at work chasing his dreams of hitting the 800lb bench press. While he may be the current world record holder in the raw bench press, Maddox isn’t content with lifting 782.6lbs, the current record. Maddox is motivated and wants to continue to achieve great things in his powerlifting career. Achieving the 800lb bench press would be just the feat to prove his incredible strength.
But Julius Maddox isn’t the only one who is looking for glory. There is another powerlifter looking to cement his name in history. That powerlifter is Iranian born Danial Zamani.
Recently Danial Zamani and Julius Maddox both put some insanely impressive numbers in their training in the gym. Neither man are showing signs of giving in and both are motivating the other to push themselves to the next level.
Maddox Hits New PR
Julius Maddox as always showed he’s an absolute beast in his recent training. In fact, Maddox put up 750Lbs for two reps, a personal record for the powerlifter.
?PR ALERT? (340kg) 750lbs X 2
Lost traction on the second rep so I racked it for safety. I’m officially ready for 800..
Zamani’s Undeniable Strength
Danial Zamani recently put up an insane 766lb (347.5kg) bench press. He’s closing in on the world record and shows no sign of stopping.
?347.5 kg raw bench press?
As I promised the world and all strength fans I reached my target weight. This weight is dedicated to all my fans and my supporters. Thanks alot from all international pages that post my trainings and motivate me to push more.
It’s not over yet wait for storming start in close future ?
It’s clear that both Julius Maddox and Danial Zamani have what it takes to lift 800lbs. Who will hit the 800lb raw bench press first? That’s anyone’s guess.
What do you think of the strength of Julius Maddox and Danial Zamani?
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Managing Editor at Generation Iron, Jonathan Salmon is a writer, martial arts instructor, and geek culture enthusiast. Check out his YouTube, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and Sound Cloud for in-depth MMA analysis.
Legendary Bodybuilding Photographer Jimmy Caruso Dies At 95 Years Old
Jimmy Caruso, who is famous for his photographs of Arnold Schwarzenegger, passed away at age 95.
Jimmy Caruso, a legendary photographer in the sport of bodybuilding, passed away at the age of 95 on July 18. There was no cause of death released at the time.
Legendary physique photographer Jimmy Caruso died on July 18 at 95. The Montreal gym owner and Weider lensman shot some of the most iconic photos of Arnold Schwarzenegger and others in the late ’60s and throughout the ’70s. Here’s a story we did in 2019:https://t.co/yK8OKtnuKn pic.twitter.com/V0iBbbvxWR
— THE BARBELL (@TheBarbell) July 20, 2021
Caruso worked for Joe Weider’s Muscle Builder/Power magazine during the 1960’s. This is where his relationship with Arnold Schwarzenegger began.
Hailing from Montreal, Jimmy Caruso is best known for his photographs and relationship with the best bodybuilder of all-time. In 1968, Schwarzenegger would come to America to compete in the 1968 Mr. Universe, where he finished second behind Frank Zane. That same weekend, Schwarzenegger signed with Weider’s and had his first ever photo shoot in America. Caruso was the man behind the camera.
Caruso began showing an interest in photography at 14 years old when he was inspired by the work of Victor Nicoletti. He worked his way up to the top and earned an IFBB Recognition Award as the “greatest physique photographer.”
Schwarzenegger was photographer many times by Caruso and took to Twitter to send his condolences to his family.
“Jimmy Caruso was an artist, a visionary, and just a good man. His photos were beautiful and helped tell the story of the golden age of bodybuilding. You have heard me say I’m not a self-made man over and over – people like Jimmy are a big reason why.”
Jimmy Caruso was an artist, a visionary, and just a good man. His photos were beautiful and helped tell the story of the golden age of bodybuilding. You have heard me say I’m not a self-made man over and over – people like Jimmy are a big reason why. pic.twitter.com/Zw0dTlBegN
— Arnold (@Schwarzenegger) July 20, 2021
Caruso was not just a photographer. He dabbled in the bodybuilding game himself, along with being a trainer of many champion boxers and bodybuilders and a personal trainers at his gym. Caruso opened “Caruso Gym” In Montreal in 1954 when he was 29 years old. That was the same year that he finished second at the Most Muscular Montreal competition.
As a trainer, Jimmy Caruso had a big hand in the success of Roy Callender. In 1977, Callender won the Canadian Championships after being persuaded to leave professional wrestling and get back into the world of bodybuilding by Caruso. He would enjoy success during the 1970’s and 1980’s, including winning the 1979 IFBB Pro Universe and competing in Mr. Olympia four years in a row.
Today, Caruso’s gym is now known as “Gym-Zone Decarie.” Caruso stayed active well into the later part of his life. In recent years, Caruso was still actively working as a personal trainer in his gym.
Jimmy Caruso will be remembered as a legendary photographer and figure in the sport of bodybuilding. Schwarzenegger was not the only one to tribute Caruso at this time.
“We would like to send our deepest condolences to the family and friends of one of the true gentleman in our sport, Jimmy Caruso. The iconic bodybuilding photographer passed on July 18th, just prior to his 96th birthday. Some of the most legendary photos of Arnold over the years came from Jimmy’s lenses. He will be sadly missed. RIP,” Arnold Sports Festival posted on Facebook.
Jimmy Caruso Death – Obituary, Funeral, Cause Of DeathJimmy Caruso was an artist, a visionary, and just a good man. His photos were beautiful and helped tell the story of the golden age of bodybuilding……click link to learn more https://t.co/mF1SOvZ0l5
— News36Up (@News36U) July 21, 2021
Legendary bodybuilding photographer Jimmy Caruso dies at 95 https://t.co/iNeelzBihq via @evbodybuilding #jimmycaruso #photography @Schwarzenegger @ketch #evolutionofbodybuilding
— evo.bodybuilding-net (@evbodybuilding) July 20, 2021
Generation Iron send out condolences to the friends and family of Jimmy Caruso during this difficult time. For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Kaged Muscle Clean Meal Premium Meal Replacement Review
This meal replacement is for those who prioritize nutrition with a complete and nutritious meal for any time of day.
Product Overview
Meal replacements have the ability to works wonders for all of nutritional needs. Our busy schedules can cause us to feel rushed, sometimes stressed, and often times unable to sit down and prepare a meal to either eat then or take us with us for later. Meal replacement products are designed to pump us with those valuable nutrients while giving us an on-the-go option that fits any lifestyle. The days of going hungry and feeling sluggish are over. One shake and you’re well on your way to feeling energized and ready to take on any challenge. Kaged Muscle Clean Meal is that meal replacement for it is a premium product packed with top tier ingredients and loads of benefits.
What a good meal replacement can do is support all areas of health and performance by containing amazing ingredients with an affordable and convenient option. Perfect for any busy schedule, meal replacements can support weight management to help with weight loss, aid in muscle growth as a result of high protein, and boost recovery by giving your body the essential nutrients it needs to thrive. They can also keep you full so you don’t snack and get the most out of your daily nutritional needs.
Code GENIRON10 For 10% Off
Kaged Muscle Clean Meal is a great meal replacement for those looking to prioritize nutrition while still getting a solid on-the-go meal. With whole food ingredients and 21 organic vitamins and minerals, all of the essentials are covered.
Kaged Muscle is a supplements company who takes their production process and final products seriously, only reinforcing the deepest of integrity. They source the most pure, most potent raw materials and ensure their labs operate beyond the status quo with rigorous testing and third party assurance. Never compromising on quality and price, Kaged Muscle seeks to only make the highest quality supplements they can, for they know you the athlete deserve only the best.
Clean Meal Highlights
Kaged Muscle Clean Meal is for those active individuals who want to prioritize nutrition while still getting a complete and convenient meal for those on-the-go needs. With whole food ingredients and 21 organic vitamins and minerals, this meal replacement has 123% better amino absorption to help build muscle and strength while also keeping you full throughout the day. Fueled with a formula including whey protein isolate, clean carbs, BCAAs, MCT oil, and zero added sugar, this meal replacement is perfect for fueling athletic performance while providing for a protein rich option for weight loss, digestion, recovery, and other nutritional needs. A premium meal replacement, Clean Meal works for any time of day.
Ingredients
Whey Protein Isolate: A more filtered form of whey, the filtration process eliminates excess carbs and fats for a more pure protein. Great for muscle growth, recovery, and to help with weight loss for those looking to cut (1).
Oat Flour: One of the best gluten-free flours, this contains plenty of fiber, protein, and a host of other vitamins and minerals. It will work to lower cholesterol levels, decrease blood pressure, and increase satiety, among other benefits.
Organic Quinoa: With sufficient amounts of essential amino acids, this contains fiber, protein, and other essential vitamins and minerals. Very nutritious, this is great for people intolerant to gluten and has effects on your metabolism (2).
MCT Powder: Medium-chain triglycerides derived from coconut oil, this can promote weight loss, provide energy, improve cognitive function, and assist with better absorption (3).
Fruit & Vegetable Extract Blend: A mix of a number of fruits and vegetables, all of those vital nutrients you need most in your day are covered with this blend (4).
Cinnamon Bark Powder: A key source of valuable micronutrients, this has powerful antioxidant effects and can help with cholesterol reduction (5).
Other Ingredients
Natural Flavor, Gum Blend (Guar Gum, Gum Acacia, Xanthan Gum), Steviol Glycosides, Sucralose
Calories
240
Protein
28g
Carbs
18g
Fat
4.5g
Sugar
1g
Flavors
Snickerdoodle, Vanilla Cake
Number Of Servings
20
Serving Size
2 Scoops
Best Way To Take
Mix 2 scoops with 10-12 ounces of cold water.
Price, Flavors & Effectiveness
Kaged Muscle Clean Meal is that premium meal replacement designed for those who want to prioritize nutrition any time of day. A complete, convenient, and nutritious meal offers the best ingredients for only your benefit. With 20 servings per container, 2 scoops will pump you with these essential nutrients. Clean Meal comes in two great flavors of Snickerdoodle and Vanilla Cake.
Pros
Whole food ingredients
21 organic vitamins and minerals
Quick and nutritious meal replacement
$2.25 per meal
Cons
Could have at least a few more flavors
Slightly low on number of servings
Price: $44.99
Use code GENIRON10 for 10% off this awesome meal replacement!
Check out our list of the Best Meal Replacements for more great meal replacing products!
Overall Value
Kaged Muscle Clean Meal is that premium meal replacement designed for those who want to prioritize nutrition and have a complete, convenient, and nutritious meal at any time of day. With 21 organic vitamins and minerals, this meal replacement has 123% better amino absorption so it all hits your body harder. Kaged Muscle seeks to make only the best supplements around so athletes everywhere can benefit from clean and effective products. What you are really getting is a high-quality meal replacement with awesome ingredients from a company who cares about their consumers. Try Kaged Muscle Clean Meal today and see what this can do for all your meal replacing needs.
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 Kaged Muscle and Envato
References
Pal, Sebely; Ellis, Vanessa; Dhaliwal, Satvinder (2010). “Effects of whey protein isolate on body composition, lipids, insulin and glucose in overweight and obese individuals”. (source)
Navruz-Varli, Semra; Sanlier, Nevin (2016). “Nutritional and health benefits of quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa). (source)
Shah, Neha D.; Limketkai, Berkeley N. (2017). “The Use of Medium-Chain Triglycerides in Gastrointestinal Disorders”. (source)
Slavin, Joanne L.; Lloyd, Beate (2012). “Health Benefits of Fruits and Vegetables”. (source)
Mathew, Sindhu; Abraham, T. E. (2006). “Studies on the antioxidant activities of cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum) bark extracts, through various in vitro models”. (source)
GUIDE: Become A Master Of The Squat
Why drink and drive when you can squat and fly?
The squat is one of the most natural and beautiful movements in bodybuilding. It’s also a standard position for bearing massive weight. The squat is an exercise we’ve all performed and think we’re doing right. After all there’s not much to it right? Wrong. Like all full body exercises, the squat is a movement that requires a perfect balance of many moving parts. Everything from breath to foot position should be considered before attempting this seemingly simple move. So do you want to master the squat or continue doing it half-assed like the rest of the lames at the gym? We thought so, read on.
Pre Squat
Before even attempting the squat there’s somethings you want to consider. Breathing correctly and having a straight but rigid spine will help give you stability to up your gains.
Breathing
We know it may seem monotonous and you do it without thinking anyway but being mindful of your breathing can effect not only your numbers but your life. You’d be surprise at how many times we clam up or stop breathing completely before a big task. Instead of breathing up and down try breathing in and out. Put your hand on your collar bone, if it goes up when you breath in then you’re doing it wrong. Try belly breathing, make sure your belly expands and contracts when you breathe out and in, you will physically see your rib cage going out and in when you’re doing it right.
Rigid Spine
Everyone knows you’re suppose to keep your spine straight but few people keep in mind to keep their torso rigid. This goes hand in hand with breathing, when you breathe out try and push out your obliques also. This should give you a flat stomach but visibly protruding obliques. Don’t overdo it now, it should feel fairly natural, the main thing is to make sure your center is firm and solid.
Other things to Consider
Things like lat engagement and clenching your cheeks (yes the bottom set) are also important before squatting. You can get lat engagement by simply pinching your shoulders back. The main thing to remember is that you are one solid unit, if a heavy weight was to fall on your shoulders from your standing position you should be able to bear it.
On The Bar
Now that you’ve been practicing your stance and your breathing let’s move onto the real deal stuff – the bar.
Unweighted bar
Get under the bar and get that good stance we spoke about earlier. This is where you want to work out all of your last minute kinks. So from top to bottom here’s how it goes.
Head neutral
Not to the floor, not to the sky. Find a spot where the floor meets the wall and hold your gaze.
Bend the bar
Actively pull into the bar with your two hands, this will help your posture and keep the bar tight to your body. You want your hands to be just wide enough to hold the securely behind, too lose and you won’t engage your lats.
Root your feet
You want to engage your feet but not the way you’re probably thinking. As opposed to just applying downward pressure try twisting your feet into the ground. The conscious effort to to pull your heels in will not only apply downward pressure but will pull your knees into optimal position.
At this point there’s nothing to it but to do it, or rather, the point where you’ve got to lift some heavy ass weights. We suggest you take your time and go through each of the stages we spoke about before. You’re breathing, your stance, and your on the bar last minute checklist. You’re going to notice that you’re still making some of the same mistakes but don’t be too hard on yourself, in time you will break those bad habits. We recommend you lift with a friend to make sure you’re doing all your reps correct to form. Start off small until your position becomes automatic and then start the youtube videos..
And hey – once you’ve mastered this or if you’re already a master check out the variations below to add something new to your routine.
Jump Squat
Cross your arms over your chest.
With your head up and your back straight, position your feet at shoulder width.
Keeping your back straight and chest up, squat down as you inhale until your upper thighs are parallel, or lower, to the floor.
Now pressing mainly with the ball of your feet, jump straight up in the air as high as possible, using the thighs like springs. Exhale during this portion of the movement.
When you touch the floor again, immediately squat down and jump again.
Repeat for the recommended amount of repetitions.
Kettlebell Pistol Squat
Pick up a kettlebell with two hands and hold it by the horns. Hold one leg off of the floor and squat down on the other.
Squat down by flexing the knee and sitting back with the hips, holding the kettlebell up in front of you.
Hold the bottom position for a second and then reverse the motion, driving through the heel and keeping your head and chest up.
Lower yourself again and repeat.
That about wraps it up. Follow through the guide above and you’ll be a master of the squat in no time. Make sure to hit us up in the comments with any other tips that you think makes you a master of the squat. Stay pumped.