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Hardcore Truth: Johnnie O. Jackson Responds To Negative Reactions Of His Near-Death Story
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Johnnie O. Jackson clears the air regarding negative criticism he received on the details of his near-death experience video.
Towards the beginning of March 2022, Johnnie O. Jackson released an episode of Hardcore Truth discussing his past PED use habits in bodybuilding and a near-death experience during contest prep. Shortly after posting the episode, Jackson faced negative criticism for how he explained the story and the details behind the specifics of his PED use. Admittedly, discussing PED use specifics can be a slippery slope in terms of how this kind of information is absorbed by the public. The last thing Jackson wants to do is mislead fans in the bodybuilding. That’s why on this week’s episode of Hardcore Truth, Johnnie O. Jackson responds to the negative reactions to his near-death story.
Johnnie O. Jackson decided to speak transparently about his past PED use and a near-death experience he had during contest prep. He decided to speak on this in reaction to the tragic deaths bodybuilding has faced over the past year. While we might not know the direct causes of many of those who passed away – there has been an increased discussion on health in bodybuilding.
Johnnie O. Jackson is not a doctor nor is he an expert on discussing powerful PED substances such as steroids, diuretics, etc. He wanted to share his story not as an explanation of what you should or shouldn’t do with PEDs. Rather, he wanted to simply relay the very real health risk he faced at various moments (and one moment in particular) during his prime bodybuilding years.
Generation Iron Fitness Network has always focused on providing a platform for its hosts to speak freely without censorship and oversight. Hardcore Truth, like many other video podcasts and series on our network, is hosted and distributed by GI but allows for hosts like Johnnie O. Jackson to speak unedited.
That being said, both Johnnie O. Jackson and Generation Iron understand that Jackson’s recent near-death story episode earned some negative criticism in the industry. That’s why Jackson wanted to do a follow up video to help clarify his statements and respond to the negative criticism.
Johnnie O. Jackson’s response to negative criticism
In this episode, Jackson first clarifies that his story is not meant to be direct advice about any specific drug or protocol. He is not a doctor, and he understands that he may have not explained his situation in as much detail as a medical professional could. Jackson’s story is not advice on do’s and don’ts about drugs. It was advice about the bigger picture of health risks in bodybuilding. He explains it was a story to help warn others on how easy the drive to succeed can overpower smart thinking when it comes to health.
And most importantly, he urges viewers to always second guess what is being put into your body and don’t just blindly follow trainers or coaches – including himself. Seek a professional opinion. Do research. Know what you are getting yourself into.
Johnnie O. Jackson then brings on a video clip from a medical professional to help further explain some details on his previous statements. Dawn Thornhill is a nurse practitioner – but more than that she was the specific medical professional that was overseeing Jackson’s protocols from his previous story.
In the clip, Thornhill focuses specifically on Johnnie O. Jackson’s comments about testosterone, high blood pressure, and how it affects African Americans. She pulls on her professional experience to help clear the air and clarify in more detail on Jackson’s previous statements on the matter.
Ultimately, Johnnie O. Jackson understands that criticism is simply a part of being a public figure. He also understands that others are entitled to their reactions and opinions just as much as himself. He hopes that today’s episode helps bring clarity and more context to the situation.
You can watch Johnnie O. Jackson go into complete detail alongside Dawn Thornhill in our latest episode of Hardcore Truth above. Make sure to stick around every Thursday for new episodes!
Mark Wahlberg Demonstrates Massage Tool After It Was Called A Sex Toy
Mark Wahlberg shows off massage tool to show co-star its true use.
Mark Wahlberg has kept himself in great shape over the years. He is one of the biggest stars in Hollywood and many of his roles require a ripped physique. Wahlberg has made plenty of physique transformations over the years and knows a thing or two about keeping his muscles in shape.
One way is to keep muscles loose by stretching or using a massage gun. Recently, Wahlberg took time to demonstrate a tool called the Power Plate Pulse. This is a new massage gun that allows users to target any area they want to work. Because of the look of the gun, Wahlberg’s co-star Tom Holland referred to it as a sex toy.
“Mr. Tom Holland, you see this. Power Plate Pulse. This is a massage tool for muscle recovery. Nothing else. Muscle recovery. This is the Power Plate Pulse. This is the quietest, longest battery life, and it also happens to be antimicrobial.”
Mark Wahlberg and Tom Holland are currently working together for a project called Uncharted. Wahlberg decided to use the video to demonstrate the product and advertise for the company.
Wahlberg is an ambassador and shareholder in the company. It is no surprise to see him using the product and showing its uses. Wahlberg was seen in his home gym without a shirt to target the muscles directly. It uses vibration to hit the targeted areas and is a product that has a six-hour battery life along with six different heads.
“Massage tool strictly for muscle recovery @tomholland2013@unchartedmovie @powerplateusa ????”
Mark Wahlberg has been able to keep his shredded physique at age 50. This is partially because of his motivation and partially because of his career. Wahlberg has had to put on and lose weight over the course of his career depending on certain roles. Any product that he puts his name on has to be well worth it and this massage gun seems to be one of those products.
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Greg has covered the four major sports for six years and has been featured on sites such as Sports Illustrated, Fox Sports, SB Nation, NJ.com, and FanSided. Now, he is transitioning into the world of bodybuilding and strength sports.
Sadik Hadzovic Looks Stage Ready and Shredded 10 Weeks Out From The NY Pro
Sadik Hadzovic looks rage ready 10 weeks out from the 2022 NY Pro.
Sadik Hadzovic is looking shredded and ready for the NY Pro. The long time popular competitor has been pushing himself in training and is looking impressive 10 weeks out.
It’s clear that Sadik Hadzovic is taking no prisoner no prisoners in his return to the stage. The veteran competitor will make his return to action at the 2022 New York Pro. He’s taken a hefty amount of time off since his last appearance at the 2017 Olympia. Five years is certainly a long time to be away from the stage, but it’s obvious that Hadzovic has been taking his preparation seriously.
With 10 weeks to go until the 2022 NY Pro competitors are doing their best to prep as the time window closes. Among the competitors vying to win the Classic Physique title at the show, Sadik Hadzovic could be one of the biggest names. His return to action particularly at an East Coast show is definitely a big deal. As such Hadzovic is taking his preparation seriously. The pressure is on for the popular bodybuilder to perform in front of a crowd likely filled with his fans.
Stage Ready
Well as the saying goes pressure creates diamonds. Sadik Hadzovic has put in his fair share of work in the build up to the NY Pro and now the results are speaking for themselves. 10 weeks out Hadzovic looks impressive.
You’re younger self had a dream, don’t let that little guy down.
Great day of training and filming here in Texas today with coach @kashguidry.
10 weeks out of the NY PRO!
Will Sadik Hadzovic win the NY Pro title? That’s yet to be seen. There is still plenty of tough competition to give him fits in the Classic Physique division. But this physique update is at least a great indication that he’s been putting in some quality work. Hadzovic could use a bit more size on his frame, but other than that he looks shredded and impressive.
Do you think Sadik Hadzovic can win at the 2022 NY Pro?
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
News and Editorial Writer at Generation Iron, Jonathan Salmon is a writer, martial arts instructor, and geek culture enthusiast. Check out his YouTube, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and Sound Cloud for in-depth MMA analysis.
What Makes A Premium Pre-Workout? Benefits, Ingredients & More
The right pre-workout will increase energy, boost muscle pumps, and provide serious results.
Premium pre-workout supplements will give you more energy and focus while pumping more blood and oxygen to your muscles to make you feel ripped. Our pre-workout needs are important, and especially after a long day, the best thing we can do is pump ourselves with a high-quality supplement designed to give us the best energy. You will smash weights like never before, you will recover faster, and you will feel amazing pumps when you take a quality pre-workout.
Perhaps you have tried pre-workout supplements, and this has not been your experience. That is probably because there are plenty of sub-par pre-workout products out there with low dosages, ineffective ingredients, or so many stimulants that the energy is not worth the crash.
It is important to do your research and choose a premium pre-workout product that is clinically dosed with well-researched ingredients. The research is always developing, so you need a forward-thinking brand that has kept up to date and knows how to create pre-workout supplements that will take your performance to the next level.
How Do I Find The Best Pre-Workout Supplements?
When it comes to the best pre-workout supplements, there are some things you should watch out for. Firstly, if you see the words “proprietary blend,” run in the opposite direction. The ingredient list should be transparent. If it is not, then the manufacturer is probably hiding something. The number of servings should also equal the price to make it worth your time and money.
Benefits Of Pre-Workouts
The benefits of pre-workout should not be ignored for this supplement can seriously increase energy, muscle pumps, and overall results. A premium pre-workout supplement can:
Increase focus and energy: Offer intense workouts while being locked into every exercise so nothing interferes with a good workout (1).
Reduce fatigue: Allow for longer training sessions by busting fatigue and keeping that energy high for prolonged periods of time (2).
Muscle pumps: Watch your strength and muscle gains flourish and allow blood to flow through your muscles.
Enhanced recovery: Bounce back faster and promote more efficient growth while recovering more effectively for faster turn arounds.
Effective Ingredients For A Premium Pre-Workout
Caffeine (100-200 mg): Caffeine is a safe and effective natural ingredient that boosts energy levels and focus so you can train harder for longer (3). It also improves your metabolic rate. However, some pre-workout supplements rely too heavily on caffeine and contain high amounts, which leads to a harsh subsequent crash. Around 150mg is best.
Beta-Alanine (2-5g per day): Beta-Alanine increases muscle endurance by preventing lactic acid build-up, which causes fatigue. Allowing you to work out for longer and grow bigger muscles (4).
L-Citrulline (Maximum 15g per day): Arginine was once hailed as the ultimate pre-workout ingredient. Research showed that the body does a terrible job of absorbing it. Many people continue to waste money on supplements containing Arginine.
Citrulline converts to arginine in the body, and your body can better absorb it. Which leads to the relaxation of the muscles around the blood vessels, causing vasodilation (the widening of the arteries and veins) and increased blood flow (5).
Citrulline also reduces the liver’s absorption of certain amino acids and prevents them from being broken down. This allows those amino acids to be used for muscle building. Although Citrulline is not used to build protein itself, studies show that it increases protein synthesis by stimulating signaling pathways involved in muscle building.
L-Citrulline Malate: This is the combination of citrulline and DL Malate. When combined, they have the added benefit of energy production, allowing or better exercise performance. In one study, participants were given a supplement 60 minutes before exercise. They went on to perform 53% more repetitions. They also experienced less pain in the days following training.
VASO6: Extracted from green tea, this is a relative discovery. If pre-workout developers keep up with the latest research, this should be an ingredient they incorporate.
VASO6 encourages the production of nitric oxide, promoting vasorelaxation. This makes the cardiovascular system work easier and increases the blood flow to your muscles. A healthier blood flow results in more energy, endurance, and of course, bigger pumps. It also enables the efficient clearance of metabolic waste.
Vitamin B12: A premium pre-workout should contain ingredients to help you feel your best. Ingredients that are good for mental focus, such as B12, will give you focus during your workout and beyond. B12 is one of the most common deficiencies, partially because of the depleting nutrients in the soil where our food grows. A deficiency can leave you with brain fog, poor performance, slow recovery, and an inability to lose excess fat (6). For bodybuilders, it is even more important that they are getting the nutrients they need.
Common Ineffective Ingredients in Pre-Workout Supplements
Although the following ingredients may not necessarily harm you, the latest research shows them ineffective workout supplements.
Glutamine: Glutamine is an important amino acid that plays a role in building muscles, intentional health, and the immune system. However, most people get enough from their food; virtually any protein source contains glutamine. So if you are eating a high-protein diet, then you probably don’t need to supplement it (7).
Arginine: Arginine is another important amino acid for building muscles. However, studies show that it is destroyed by stomach acid when you supplement it and does not get helpfully absorbed by your body. Citrulline is a great alternative that converts to a more bioavailable form of arginine in the body.
D-Aspartic Acid: D-Aspartic Acid works to increase testosterone and improve resistance training (8).
Dangerous Or Banned Ingredients
A common banned ingredient in pre-workouts is DMAA. Although it may give you an energy boost, it also elevates blood pressure and leads to cardiovascular problems, especially caffeine consumption.
But the most common danger to watch out for is an overload of caffeine. Some pre-workout manufacturers include a large number of stimulants to make you feel like the product is doing something. However, this can cause a severe crash and leave you with no energy for the rest of the day, or it can also make you feel anxious or raise your heart rate to dangerous levels.
Product Comparison
Here we will look at three of the most popular pre-workouts available and compare them. We are not looking for a product that tastes great and gives you a strong caffeine boost and nothing else. We are looking for a high-quality, all-natural formula that includes the ingredients we mentioned above, one which will take your workouts to the next level.
We’ve pulled the top three pre-workouts from our Best Pre-Workouts list to compare and give you great options to boost your workouts.
Transparent Labs PreSeries BULK
Transparent Labs PreSeries BULK is a great pre-workout for those looking to bulk up and see the best workout gains. You will also find that BULK will reduce fatigue and increase your energy for longer workouts. A fully transparent label shows these great ingredients and what this can do for increasing size and muscle mass.
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.
Pre Lab Pro
Pre Lab Pro is the next-gen pre-workout formula designed for all-around strength, speed, stamina, endurance, and recovery. Using nootropic-enhanced caffeine, this provides for smart stimulation for energy, focus, and calm intensity. This revolutionary design targets three key pathways that work in synergy to supercharge workout performance, promote health balance, and accelerate your overall progress.
Pre Lab Pro is the all-around pre-workout for strength, speed, stamina, endurance, and recovery. Nootropic-enhanced caffeine for energy, focus, and calm intensity ensures fast and healthy progress.
Enhanced Ramy’s Rage Stim Reloaded
Ramy’s Rage Stim is different. It has a fully disclosed supplement facts panel, so you know exactly what you’re getting in each serving. Ramy’s Rage Stim contains full dosages of ingredients scientifically proven to boost energy levels, improve physical performance, and enhance focus. With a smart 8-stim matrix, all of your energy and focus enhancing needs are met with a great pre-workout. With 17 clinically dosed ingredients grouped into 4 synergistic matrixes, this pre-workout is perfect for boosting intensity.
Code GENIRON For 15% Off
Enhanced Ramy’s Rage Stim Reloaded is a smart 8-stim matrix to enhance energy and focus. A fully disclosed label provides transparency for their scientifically proven ingredients.
Wrap Up
A premium pre-workout supplement has the ability to take your gains to new heights and with the right ingredients and a powerful formula, you never have to worry about poor performance again. While it can be tough to find the right supplement, it is important to remember that it is possible and that those premium products are out there. Knowing what ingredients to look for, the benefits of a pre-workout, and what results can come will give you comfort in knowing your premium pre-workout is only working for your benefit.
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
Gonzalez, A.; et al. (2011). “Effect of a Pre-Workout Energy Supplement on Acute Multi-Joint Resistance Exercise”. (source)
Kaczka, P.; et al. (2020). “Effect of Pre-Workout Multi-Ingredient Supplement on Anaerobic Performance: Randomized Double-Blind Crossover Study”. (source)
Cappelletti, S.; et al. (2015). “Caffeine: Cognitive and Physical Performance Enhancer or Psychoactive Drug?”. (source)
Artiolo, G.; et al. (2010). “Role of beta-alanine supplementation on muscle carnosine and exercise performance”. (source)
Gonzalez, A.; et al. (2020). “Effects of Citrulline Supplementation on Exercise Performance in Humans: A Review of the Current Literature”. (source)
Ryan-Harshman, M. (2008). “Vitamin B12 and health”. (source)
Gleeson, M. (2008). “Dosing and efficacy of glutamine supplementation in human exercise and sport training”. (source)
Melville, G.; et al. (2017). “The effects of d-aspartic acid supplementation in resistance-trained men over a three month training period: A randomized controlled trial”. (source)
5 Reasons Why Your Calves Aren’t Growing
5 Reasons Why Your Calves Refuse to Grow
Calves can be one of the most stubborn muscle groups. Look around your gym and you’ll probably see a lot of people with skinny legs and even skinnier toothpick calves. Although calves are a small muscle group, they can be one of the hardest to develop.
Building calves can be harder for people with genetically weaker legs. If you’ve hit a plateau and your calves refuse to grow, you need to change your training program. This article will help you takes your calves game to the next level and get you ready for the summer.
1. Treating Your Calves as Accessory Muscles
Most people make the mistake of treating their calves as accessory muscles. They train their calves at the end of their workouts when there is nothing left in the tank. If you have lagging calves, you should be training them at the beginning of your workouts.
Don’t perform a single calf exercise at the end of your workouts. Do 12-15 sets on 3-4 different exercises targeting both your soleus and gastrocnemius muscles. Your calves should be flushed with lactic acid at the end of your workouts.
2. Sticking to the Same Training Routine
You have hit a plateau if your calves have stopped responding to your workouts. Shocking your muscles with new exercises or advanced training techniques like supersets, drop sets, intra-set stretching or blood flow restriction training is a great way to break the plateau.
You don’t need to be in the gym to train your calves and if you’re in the gym, you don’t need to use weights every time. Your own body weight is enough to get the ball rolling. If you don’t have access to calf training equipment at your gym, use an elevated platform to do the calf raises.
3. Not Training Your Calves From Every Angle
Your calves consist of three heads: inner, medial and outer. You need to train all the three heads to ensure an overall development. Switching your feet placement can make all the difference.
Pointing your toes inwards and the balls of your feet outwards will target the outer calves head. Pointing the toes outwards will target the inner head and keeping your feet neutral will work the medial head.
4. Doing Too Little
Calves are a small muscle group and can recover quickly from your workouts. A good rule of thumb to training your calves is to train them every day if they’re not sore. Toothpick calves won’t turn into full-grown bulls by training them once a week.
Three sets of standing calf raise at the end of your leg workouts aren’t good enough to budge the needle on your calf gains. Train your calves as you would train your biceps, and hit 12-15 sets.
5. Overloading
People will small calves usually engage in ego lifting and load the machines with more weights than they can handle. The range of motion is one of the key factors in calf development.
You should maintain a full range of motion and your toes should be pointed like a ballerina at the top of the movement. Establish a mind-muscle connection with your calves and pause and contract them with every repetition.
How often do you train your calves? Let us know in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook and Twitter.
Eating These 6 Foods Will Heat Up Your Sex Life
Eating These 6 Foods Will Heat Up Your Sex Life
For the majority of the lifters, eating and sex are two of their most favorite activities. What if we told you eating could improve your sex life? No, we’re not some angels sent from the heavens to fulfill your destiny. We’ll be talking facts here.
If you pop faster than a packet of corn, you’re going to greatly benefit from the things you’re going to learn today. What you eat affects how you’re going to perform under the sheets. Unlike your muscular structure, your sex drive isn’t dependent on your genetics.
If the blue pill or alcohol are your entrusted solutions for lasting longer in bed, we can imagine your insecurities. The fact that you’re reading this article is enough to establish that the duration you last in bed is directly proportional to your partner’s satisfaction.
Eating the right food won’t only improve your performance, it can help treat erectile dysfunction as well. The icing on the cake is that these foods benefit both ladies and men. So, eating a dinner consisting of these foods before hitting the sack will be a great idea.
6 Foods That’ll Improve Your Sex Life and Libido
Bananas
Well, eating a banana on a date might be a tad too suggestive but it will ensure you’re starting things on the right foot. Bananas are one of the best sources of potassium and B vitamins.
These nutrients can help boost low energy levels – a common cause of low libido. B vitamins and potassium also contain bromelain enzymes, which help boost sex drive and can treat erectile dysfunction.
Potassium fights the effects of high sodium foods. Food high in salt can reduce the blood flow to the genitals which can make it harder to reach orgasm. Pro tip – if getting adventurous on the dinner table is not your thing, you would want to avoid eye contact while eating the banana.
Oysters
This certain body part resembling food is rich in zinc. Zinc is a mineral that elevates testosterone while simultaneously boosting growth hormone. Both of these enhance physical performance (in and out of the sheets) and muscle growth.
It is no secret that adding seafood to your diet can improve your daily protein intake quantity and quality. Seafood can also improve your immunity as they are rich in omega fats.
While the oysters might not look like salmon or tuna, they offer fish-like benefits and have high levels of B12, vitamins A, D, calcium, iron, selenium, copper, and zinc. A study conducted in Turkey concludes that zinc has the potential to help restore nitric oxide activity (resulting in better blood flow) in a man’s equipment.
Nuts
Clarification – the foods on the list are not deliberately listed to be implicative, we swear. Nuts like walnuts, peanuts, and pistachios all contain the amino acid L-arginine, which is one of the building blocks of nitric oxide.
Nitric oxide (NO2) is a naturally occurring element in the body that helps the guys maintain an erection. L-arginine dilates the blood vessels which enables a better flow of blood throughout the body.
Eating nuts regularly can also help in reducing cholesterol levels. The higher your cholesterol levels, the harder it will be for the blood to travel to different parts of your body – including your pee-pee.
Watermelon
If rumors are to be believed, eating watermelons will make you last longer than a camel in the desert. Watermelon contains an amino acid called citrulline which when converted to arginine, can boost nitric oxide synthesis and vasodilation.
A naturally occurring chemical called lycopene is present in high amounts in watermelons. Lycopene equals viagra in its ability to relax blood vessels which improves circulation to certain, ahem, body parts.
If L-arginine and citrulline sound familiar to you, it’s probably because most of the pre-workout supplements on the market contain both of these elements. These amino acids help in achieving a nasty pump in the gym.
Red Wine
Red wine might be the perfect way to start a long romantic night. According to a Journal of Sexual Medicine study, women who drank one to two glasses had heightened sexual desire compared to ladies who didn’t drink any wine.
But why red wine and not whisky, you ask? The antioxidant profile of the wines (like other food items on the list) triggers nitric oxide production in the blood which relaxes the artery wall and carries blood down south.
Pro trip – alcohol before a date night can be a two-edged sword. While going on a date with a girl who is out of your league might give you jitters, consuming a glass too many will stop the show before it starts.
Dark chocolate is another women’s favorite that is also great for improving your sex life. It also happens to be the most researched of the aphrodisiac foods. An antioxidant called flavanol is present in dark chocolates which like lycopene in the watermelons can boost nitric oxide levels and blood flow.
Garlic
There is a high probability you were unaware about the libido boosting properties of garlic until now. As per some historians, ancient Egyptians consumed garlic to boost their sex drives and stamina.
According to a study, consuming garlic helps stop the formation of new fatty deposits, called nano plaques, inside the arterial walls. For the uninitiated, the arterial walls lead to your penis. So, garlic basically acts as the bulldozer which removes the fat deposits that block blood flow to the arterial walls.
Adding garlic to your kitchen staples will help keep your heart healthy and your erections strong. You could use the garlic in powder, paste or cooked form in your diet. Thanks to the great fragrance of garlic, it goes without saying – don’t eat garlic on a date night.
Other honorable mentions
Oats, blueberries, pomegrante, coffee, pesto, fatty fish, potatoes, ginger, pumpkin seeds, crab, green tea, pepper, spinach are some other foods/beverages that are great for boosting your sex drive. We highly recommend adding a combination of these to your diet.
Which of these sex life improving foods is a staple in your diet? Let us know in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook and Twitter.
Lou Ferrigno Launches NFT Access Ticket To Bodybuilding Museum
Lou Ferrigno is giving fans the opportunity to access the full photo gallery of the 1973 Mr. Universe.
Lou Ferrigno is a legendary bodybuilder who helped transcend the sport early on. he is still an influential name in bodybuilding and is continuing to put out some different content. Ferrigno recently announced an NFT project that he is sharing that allows fans to get some unique pictures from back in the day.
Ferrigno shared a reel on Instagram explaining the project and how fans can get in on it. This will show some cropped pictures of Ferrigno during competitions back in 1973. He references his victory at the Mr. America competition where he had massive biceps.
“Alright, big Lou Ferrigno here. I’m so excited to share now that my first NFT tickets are now live. Here’s a unique, cropped photo taken of me when I was 21 before I won the IFBB Mr. America competition back in 1973. At the time, I had the biggest biceps in the sport, 22 inches at 21 years old. Now, these tickets will allow you to access the NFT exhibit where you can watch and read about the story behind this photo. Get the ultimate high resolution so get these tickets before they sellout. Go to DaVinci now.”
During his career, Lou Ferrigno had some legendary battles with Arnold Schwarzenegger. This is what ultimately put his skillset on the map. He was able to battle with the greatest bodybuilder of all-time. When looking at results, Schwarzenegger was able to get the better of him on the Olympia stage. Ferrigno finished with back-to-back top-three finishes at the Olympia in 1974 and 1975.
This came after Ferrigno won the Mr. Universe competition in 1973. He burst onto the bodybuilding scene right out of high school and wasted no time becoming an elite name. Now, he is still making his mark on the sport and allowing fans to get in on some exciting experiences.
NFT’s are beginning to become extremely popular. Generation Iron recently dropped its first line of NFT’s and there will be more coming. As for Ferrigno, he is giving an access ticket for an entire exhibit around his incredible victories.
Lou Ferrigno is as good as it gets when thinking about the best bodybuilders of all-time. This is bound to be an exciting exhibit and worth the ticket.
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Natural Bodybuilder Chad Martin Expresses the Dilemma of Being Natural
INBA PNBA Hall of Famer Chad Martin explains the quandary surrounding natural bodybuilding.
Chad Martin is an International Natural Bodybuilding Association (INBA)/Professional Natural Building Association (PNBA) competitor and Hall of Fame Inductee. Some remember Chad Martin as “The Bowflex Guy” after being the face of their 2005 national commercial.
Nowadays, Chad Martin competes in the Men’s Bodybuilding Grand Masters division and received a fourth-place finish at 2021 Natural Olympia. Chad Martin considers himself “Forever Natural,” and Generation Iron was able to get his insight on being natural.
Chad Martin stated:
“I realized that if I wanted to be a true natural competitor I wouldn’t stand a chance next to someone with my height but weighing 70-90lbs heavier at 2% body fat, and 4 inches shorter.”
Of course, Martin refers to enhanced bodybuilders – athletes on some form of PEDs.
Admittedly, Martin says it’s displeasing to see placings stolen and money taken out of authentic natural competitors’ pockets. However, Martin acknowledges that many competitors are confused by what it means to be a natural. For example, some competitors believe taking PEDs derived from natural derivates is still considered natural. He also notes that some competitors have doped in their past. Then have been clean for five years before coming back in the sport of bodybuilding, claiming to be a natural.
Furthermore, some bodybuilders justify doping from not being genetically gifted compared to other bodybuilders. On the contrary, some athletes believe creatine and caffeine aren’t natural.
Martin points to the 21st-century culture as partly to blame. Nowadays, superhero physiques are becoming the norm. We have poisoned our minds to believe that bigger is better by any means possible. Martin voiced, “The image that we are creating in young boys minds is a cartoonish out of reach ideal unless you use some form of PEDs.”
What Does it Mean to Be a Natural?
Chad Martin said:
“If you look back at the early bodybuilding years with Steve Reeves and others, you see a physique that was symmetrically and aesthetically pleasing, and was formed from just eating properly and training with what you had.”
Martin pointed out that getting back to this age of bodybuilding isn’t feasible. However, Martin quoted:
“I love this sport and have stated from day one that I want to be an ambassador for it and prove you can build a healthy and quality physique without using any PEDs, but are we fighting an ideal that our culture almost embraces as not cheating, but using any means necessary to justify its use.”
Chad Martin Natural Bodybuilding History
Image via Instagram @chadmartinhof
Chad Martin has been a natural bodybuilder for decades. He joined the INBA PNBA in 2001 after being frustrated with the integrity of other bodybuilding leagues. After learning more about the INBA PNBA and what they represented, he knew this was his route.
Martin said that he’s happy with the decision he made, especially with the string of deaths that have taken place in bodybuilding recently. In addition, he loves competing with the men in Bodybuilding Grand Masters.
Chad Martin has competed in the most Natural Olympia shows ever against all the top champions. However, his fondest memory was in 2012 when he won the World Title and draped the USA flag around him, then went on the next day to compete in the PNBA with four world champions on stage.
Personal LIfe
Outside of competing in Natual Bodybuilding, Chad Martin has taught physical education and computer tech at a juvenile jail in WA for the last 25 years. Also, he helps run a GED program to support his hobby/passion. Chad Martin also puts ample time into his two sons, baseball players – one who is a professional with the Pirates and the other who is a D1 commit.
Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for more insight from the best natural physiques on the planet!
Enhanced PhytoTurk Review For Increased Recovery & Growth
This natural plant anabolic is perfect for increasing recovery and accelerating muscle growth.
Product Overview
We are always looking for the best ways to naturally improve our gains and with the right supplement it is entirely possible. What we tend to be missing is a quality company that can ensure the ingredients and substances in our formula are clean and safe to use. While most are, in a market so heavily saturated by supplements and their respective companies, it can be too hard to tell who is on your side and who is full of it. Enhanced PhytoTurk uses turkesterone, the newest and most cutting edge natural anabolic so you see effective gains in an all-natural way.
Increasing recovery and accelerating muscle growth are exactly what we as bodybuilders and strength athletes want. We grind in the gym, pushing our bodies to the max, and with the right supplements like Enhanced PhytoTurk, we can better see those gains we want most happen. A natural anabolic ensures we take our health and wellness into consideration as we boost our training and performance as well.
Enhanced PhytoTurk is a natural anabolic supplement perfect for natural athletes to increase recovery and growth.
Enhanced Labs are a team of bodybuilders, chemists, and innovators who joined together to disrupt a chaotic industry by doing absolutely whatever it takes to come out with the most effective hardcore supplements line on the market. By always staying on the cutting-edge advancements in technology and chemistry, Enhanced Labs gives their customers the continuous edge they desire most.
Enhanced PhytoTurk Highlights
Enhanced PhytoTurk is a natural anabolic supplement designed to increase recovery and accelerate muscle growth for the best natural gains possible. Using turkesterone, found in the Ajuga turkestanica plant, traditionally used for its anabolic, adaptogen, and hepatoprotective properties, PhytoTurk allows users the chance to see natural gains with a great formula. With 60 servings per container, 1-2 capsules as a serving size will pump you with just two ingredients, strong enough to make a difference.
This supplement is great to stack with other Enhanced products, like Arachidonic Acid and Blue Ox, and will work to elevate gains even more as a result. As natural athletes, or those looking for a natural supplement, PhytoTurk allows you the benefits of recovery and growth without the negatives of a traditional steroid.
Ingredients
Turkesterone Complex Blend (500mg)
Turkesterone: A naturally occurring phytoecdysteroid found in the Ajuga turkestanica plant, this can work to build hypertrophy and increase strength for better muscle growth and subsequent gains (1).
Cyclodextrin: May work to reduce inflammation that can assist with recovery needs (2).
Other Ingredients
Vegetarian capsule (Hypromellose, and purified water), Rice flour, Magnesium stearate
Number Of Ingredients
2
Number of Servings
60
Serving Size
1 Capsules
Best Way To Take
Take 2 capsules daily or directed by a physician.
Price & Effectiveness
Enhanced PhytoTurk is that natural anabolic for natural bodybuilders, athletes, or those just looking for a natural supplement. With 60 servings per container, 1-2 capsules as a serving size will pump you with two great ingredients and a powerful formula designed to increase recovery and accelerate growth.
Pros
Great option for natural bodybuilders and athletes
New design and cutting edge ingredients
From a reputable company in Enhanced
Cons
Expensive option
Side effects like hair loss and gynecomastia are possible
Price: $59.99
Who Should Take PhytoTurk?
Those natural bodybuilders and athletes looking for a natural anabolic to improve their gains will greatly benefit from PhytoTurk. While some of the ingredients may need slightly further proof as to how exactly they work, studies done thus far are promising in the potential of these ingredients to assist with increasing recovery and accelerating muscle growth.
Also, for those who may be looking into a natural anabolic supplement because they want to add a supplement or change from a previous one, PhytoTurk is a good option for you as well.
Overall Value
Enhanced PhytoTurk is that natural anabolic perfect for increasing recovery and accelerating growth and is a go-to for those natural bodybuilders, natural athletes, or whoever may be simply seeking a natural anabolic supplement. With just two ingredients and a powerful formula, what you will find is this supplement can seriously boost all areas of your training and performance while keeping health in mind. Enhanced knows the needs of athletes and seeks to produce the best supplements around so they only see those desired gains become real. What you are really getting is a cutting edge natural anabolic supplement able to provide great benefits without the harm of a traditional steroid. Try Enhanced PhytoTurk today and give yourself the best chance at seeing effective gains.
Try Enhanced PhytoTurk Today
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*Images courtesy of Enhanced and Envato
References
Isenmann, E.; et al. (2019). “Ecdysteroids as non-convention anabolic agent: performance enhancement by ecdysterone supplementation in humans”. (source)
Souza, A.; et al. (2018). “The inclusion complex of carvacrol and β-cyclodextrin reduces acute skeletal muscle inflammation and nociception in rats”. (source)
New Podcast: Force 440, New Product!
In this podcast, I talk about my new powder that was formulated from the inspiration of the ORIGINAL pre-workout powder Ultimate Orange. I will have it for sale by April 1st!
Alex Rogers is a supplement manufacturing expert. He has been formulating, consulting, & manufacturing dietary supplements since 1998. Alex invented protein customization in 1998 & was the first company to allow consumers to create their own protein blends. He helped create the first supplement to contain natural follistatin, invented whey protein with egg lecithin, & recently imported the world’s first 100% hydrolyzed whey.