Blog

First Time NPC Fitness Competitor Strategy & Advice

It’s your first time competing or your relatively new to the fitness competition game. It can be difficult to figure out where to start and even more difficult to find all of the information you need. We feel you, we were there once too!

In addition to hard work, dedication, and discipline there is also a fair amount of strategy. The strategy will vary a bit based on your goals but at the end of the day, everyone wants to be their best, beat the competition, and have a fantastic time.

We often hear about new NPC competitors looking for the easy show, these are usually small shows with not a lot of production. It seems intuitive that a small show means fewer competitors and a better chance that you come home with a medal. But the reality is that when you understand the show structure, it doesn’t always pan out. Plus, you may find there is a reason the show is small; it lacks the experience.

Masters & Novice Classes

The myth that a trophy will be easier won, doesn’t always pan out because smaller shows also have fewer classes. Many of these small shows will have just two bodybuilding classes where the classes are Lightweight (below 177) and heavyweight (177 pounds and up). Can you imagine that you’ve dieted and sacrificed for 12 weeks to find out you are going to be competing with a guy who weighs 75 pounds more than you!

The same can happen with women’s classes, for example, if there are just two figure classes, this can put a competitor who is 5’ 4” against a competitor who is 5’10’!

Smaller shows may also be missing an array of True Novice, Novice, and Masters Classes. If you are 50 years old, do you want to compete with a 35-year-old?

If you are a first time NPC competitor, you may want to compete in True Novice, the division for those who have never competed. This is a great way to start. It helps reduce the anxiety of facing a seasoned athlete who is a show or two away from turning pro.

A very common occurrence is that a show will have very large masters and novice classes because they do not have height classes within these classes. You may sign up for Masters Bikini 35+ and find out there is one height class and 20 other women who had the same idea that you had.

Organization

If you are new to competing or a seasoned veteran, the organization of the event can mean the difference between a great weekend and a horrible one. In fact, the stress that a poorly organized event can inflict will translate into a cortisol spike and water retention transforming your hard-earned cuts into a smooth and watery presentation.

Start by reviewing the promoter’s website, the organization of a promoter’s website will tell you a lot about the organization of the show. Consider these website questions:

Is it clean and easy to follow?Is it mobile friendly?Does it specify locations, a schedule, and order of classes?Can all of your services like tanning, make-up, and photos be booked from one location?Do you see images and video of the show?Are the results from the previous year posted and easy to find?

Also review the promoter’s social media. It should be updated regularly and include important details and information. It should also include tips, advice, entertainment, humor, and athlete features.

All of these considerations will translate to how prepared the promoter will be on the day of the show. You can expect that if these items are not articulated on the website and social, then the promoter hasn’t planned them. This will translate to a weekend of confusion and frustration. You’ve worked so hard; the promoter should work as hard as you!

Top Judges

All NPC shows will have a great head judge. These will be national-level judges who are interested in the quality of the show and consistent judging. But what will the rest of the panel look like? Great shows will bring in top tier judges that often cannot be sourced locally. Local judges will often not participate in national shows or even leave the region. They may not be familiar with the judging trends on the national level while you and your coach probably are. In non-NPC federations, it is not uncommon to see that some of the local judges are also local coaches creating a conflict of interest.

After the show you should always seek feedback from the judges. Again, if a judge is not actively participating in the bodybuilding scene or may not be qualified to judge a national level event, this is not the judge you want giving you feedback. You want feedback from the judges who are setting the standard. These again will be national level, IFBB Pro level, or judges who are IFBB Pros.

Class Size

Most NPC contests will have 40 – 60 classes. As mentioned earlier, if masters and novice classes don’t have height classes, they may be very crowded. In other divisions, you may also find you will stand all alone on stage. Did you really work that hard to have no competition? When you are the only person in your class, the judge will still walk you through the mandatories poses… alone. It feels a bit silly, pretending you have some competition as you are being turned on the stage all by yourself. But hey, you can get on Instagram and tell everyone you got a first-place which is cool until they realize you had no competition. #participationtrophy

National Qualification

An athlete earns a National Qualification when they place in the top 2 of an open class. This allows them to compete for pro status at a national level event. At a typical NPC competition, about 64 National Qualifications will be awarded. This means that nearly everyone in a small show will receive a national qualification. At a small show, these qualifications were awarded by default, not based on the athlete’s readiness to turn pro. The National stage is the best of the best. The reality of the National Stage is that the overall winner’s from small show will place 16th at a Pro Qualifier. They never had a chance or even understood what the competition would look like. If you feel like you are ready to chase that pro card, compete in a large show. If you can get an overall than you are ready! If not, give yourself the time to keep learning and building before you invest the time and thousands of dollars to compete at a Pro Qualifier.

It Should be Fun!

You’ve worked so hard, you’ve sacrificed, you spent a ton of money and now is the time for you to reap the rewards! Things that you should expect:

Competitor gift bagsWelcoming and friendly atmosphereGreat communication and organizationAn incredible stage, sound, lights, and venueLive webstreamAn entertaining show with IFBB Pros and Fitness celebritiesIncredible photography both of the stage and behind the scenesGreat judging and judges with a supportive helpful attitudeLots of vendorsAn engaged, friendly, and passionate promoter and staffTons of videos, photos, and posters featuring the athletes from the event

At center Podium we work hard to hit every bullet point. We also choose destinations that are incredible vacation spots like Lake Tahoe, fun cities with lots of shopping and restaurants like Long Beach, or places with fun activities like the Grand Sierra Resort and the Route 66 Casino. We believe should have a blast and so should your family and friends who came to support you.

Remember, you are the customer and should have a fantastic experience!

You can learn more about preparing for the stage by checking out our contest prep guide here: centerpodium.com/bodybuilding-program. Also, be sure to checkout our free guide to what to expect for the show here: centerpodium.com/showtime

Easy Heart Health for Bodybuilders

February 21, 2022

In recent years we have seen too many bodybuilders passing away due impart by complications related to heart health. There is anecdotal evidence that points to COVID-19 exasperating the risk. In the medical community, it is well known that COVID-19 has left patients with clots in their brains, hearts, lungs, and legs. It is now more important than ever that bodybuilders pay more attention to balancing their need for mass with their need to live!

Why Are Bodybuilders at Higher Risks

Bodybuilders will do anything to get big. That means eating tons of food, avoiding any activity that isn’t lifting weights, and using supplements that increase the production of red blood cells.

Being Big

When you are big, whether it is fat or muscle, your heart has to work harder. Think of this as having an air conditioner designed for a 1,500 sqft house. Then you put an addition on the house making it 2,500 sqft. Now that same AC has to work much harder to keep the house cool. The same is true with your heart as it pumps blood to much more mass than it was intended to supply.

Avoiding Cardio

Bodybuilders often have the mindset that doing cardio is wasting food and burning mass. However, 20 minutes of fasted cardio a day when paired with Amino Acids will not burn up your mass. You’ll burn fat and most importantly keep your heart healthy. It’s a win-win because when it comes to prep time, you’ll be ahead of the game with more lean mass!

Supplements

Bodybuilders will take anything to get bigger. And they believe if something makes you bigger, taking TONS of it must be better. There are many studies that show healthy levels of testosterone will help you to achieve better overall health, especially with age. But you must be aware that too much will create a point of diminishing return. Your body will be poisoned and fighting to stay healthy. Red blood cell production drastically increases making your blood thicker. Thicker blood will create more work for your heart. When combined with the risk of blood clots, you have a recipe for disaster; the heart will blow as it tries to push thick blood around a massive body that is potentially jammed up with clots acting like dams inside your blood vessels.

Preventing Heart Problems

Get your labs checked Reguarly

Getting your labs checked regularly is the first defense for heart problems. Not only will you find out if you are a risk of high blood pressure but you can also review your hormone panel. You may learn that your estrogen is too high or find out the testosterone that you are taking is not working.

Get your labs measured with California Alternative Meds. You will get a free consultation and they will order your labs. As California Alternative Meds specializes in hormone replacement therapy, they will get you exactly what you need so that you can be confident in both the quantity and quality of the medication you are taking.

Supplements

Bodybuilders have a mindset that if it doesn’t make you bigger, it is not worth taking. However, taking supplements for heart health will keep you healthier but also give your more energy to train harder. You’ll have all-around less fatigue and some supplements improve circulation which means bigger pumps. Bigger pumps mean more nutrients to the muscles for recovery, energy, and stretching the muscle facia!

Donate Blood

Think of it like an oil change. When you donate blood you remove the access of red blood cells that can cause thickening of the blood.

Supplement Recommendations

Mixed Tocopherols

An important tool for maintaining heart health is Mixed Tocopherols.

Supports overall cardiovascular and circulatory healthPromotes healthy coronary blood flowProvides antioxidant supportSupports the body’s ability to appropriately process and utilize important lipidsHelps in the maintenance of cholesterol levels that are already within the normal range.Helps support healthy red blood cell flowHelps maintain healthy arterial healthHelps support a healthy cardiovascular systemHelps support health blood pressure levelsHelps support normal triglyceride and blood glucose levelsSupports healthy cell and tissue growthPLUS supports anti-aging, immune, and eye health

We work with A.C. Grace for these supplements. You can pick them up HERE. Use the code “CenterPodium” for 15% off!

COQH and CoQ10

To put it simply, CoQH and CoQ10 will lower your blood pressure and will help prevent heart-related issues. According to the Mayo Clinic, there is evidence that it has a positive effect on numerous heart conditions, Diabetes, Parkinson’s Disease, Migraines, and even increase Physical Performance.

We work with A.C. Crace for these supplements. You can pick them up HERE. Use the code “CenterPodium” for 15% off!

Arginine

In the body, the amino acid arginine changes into nitric oxide (NO). Nitric oxide is a powerful neurotransmitter that helps blood vessels relax and also improves circulation.

Some evidence shows that arginine may help improve blood flow in the arteries of the heart. That may improve symptoms of clogged arteries, chest pain or angina, and coronary artery disease.

Arginine is involved also in a number of different functions in the body. They include:

Wound healingHelping the kidneys remove waste products from the bodyMaintaining immune and hormone functionDilates and relaxes the arteries (vascularity and PUMP)

Our favorite L-Arginine 7000 is from Carr Cellular Fitness which you can find HERE. This product is very highly dosed and creates amazing pumps. It is also highly recommended to take before going on stage!

81 mg Asprin

Aspirin can prevent blood clots from forming. Blood clots, the leading cause of heart attacks and strokes, form when a plaque (cholesterol and other substances deposited on artery walls) ruptures and your body tries to contain the damage by creating a clot. When arteries are already narrowed by the buildup of plaque, a clot can block a blood vessel and stop the flow of blood to the brain or heart.

Taking a regular dose of aspirin diminishes the ability of your blood to clump together into clots by targeting the body’s smallest blood cells. Called platelets, they bind together when they encounter damaged blood vessels. While aspirin’s “blood thinning” quality can prevent.

Pick up 81 mg aspirin at most pharmacies!

Food

It is kind of crazy how many heart-healthy foods fit perfectly into the strict bodybuilder diet. Here is a list of foods to choose when creating your diet

Leafy green vegetables. Leafy green vegetables like spinach, kale, and collard greens are well known for their wealth of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.Whole grainsBerriesAvocadosFatty fish and fish oilWalnutsBeansDark chocolateTomatoesAlmondsSeedsGarlicOlive OilEdmameGreen Tea

Summary

As you can see, being heart healthy is not just good for your heart but also good for your competition goals. Now we hope that you have the information to make the right choices. Let’s break it down to one simple list of items to have on your radar.

20+ minutes of fasted cardio with amino acidsGet your blood work done regularlyDonate bloodTake Mixed Tocopherols like Unique ETake CoQ10 supplelemtns like COQHTake Arginine like L-Arginine 7000+Take 81mg of Asprin dailyChoose heart healthy foods in your competition diet
Filed Under: New, Blog, Health Reader Interactions

6 Key Movements for Building Muscle According to Pro Natural Bodybuilder Tal Shadlovsky

Image via Instagram @tal_shadlovsky
PNBA pro natural bodybuilder Tal Shadlovsky shares six imperative movements for building muscle mass. 
There are essential principles you must follow to build muscle. One of them being the correct movements. Fortunately, pro natural bodybuilder Tal Shadlovsky has shared six movements on social media that are vital for building muscle. Tal Shadlovsky competes in the World Natural Bodybuilding Federation (WNBF) and the International Natural Bodybuilding Association (INBA)/Professional Natural Bodybuilding Association (PNBA). 
In this article, we’ll cover compound movements in Tal Shadlovsky’s off-season training regimen and six exercises that are critical to any muscle-building program. 
Workout
Below are full-body exercises Tal Shadlovsky includes in his off-season training cycle. 

Shadlovsky didn’t include the sets he did, but below, you can view Tal Shadlovksy completing the movements on Instagram and what weight he used. 

https://www.instagram.com/reel/CZrm9ajjdwq/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
For most individuals looking to add lean muscle mass to their frame, we recommend performing 3-4 sets of each movement. 
Since Shadlovsky kept the reps between the 6-8 rep range, the weight he’s using will be heavy. 6-8 reps is a good rep range to aim for before because it’s enough volume to stimulate muscle growth while allowing you to use adequate weight to build muscle as well. 
*Note: To get the most out of these exercises, it’s best you split the workouts into different days. That’s because they’re taxing compound movements, and you’ll hinder your progress by trying to perform them all in one day. 
Muscles Worked

T-Bar Row: back 
Squat: legs – quads, hamstrings, glutes
Deadlift: back, hamstrings, glutes
Incline Dumbbell Bench Press: upper chest
Overhead Press: shoulders
Bench Press: chest, triceps, shoulders

Keys to Building Muscle Mass
To build muscle mass, you must stimulate your muscles with enough volume and intensity. However, if you do too much, you risk overtraining. And rest and recovery are critical to muscle growth as well. Avoiding overtraining is especially important for natural bodybuilders since you can’t engage in doping unless you want to be banned from competing. 
Furthermore, you should be applying the progressive overload principle – increasing the stimuli placed upon your muscle as often as possible. You can do this by either increasing the weight or the reps of a movement. 
Lastly, your nutrition will play a vital role too. You should be in a caloric surplus and eat enough protein to maximize muscle mass. 
INBA PNBA Vs. Other Natural Bodybuilding Organizations
There are a variety of natural bodybuilding organizations, but the INBA PNBA is the largest and most respected one. They host the most significant natural bodybuilding competition – Natural Olympia – and screen their athletes through the most rigorous drug testing standards – the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). For example, some natural athletes pass drug tests in other natural bodybuilding organizations yet fail them when they join the INBA PNBA. 
Recap
Building muscle takes time, consistency, and a strategic approach. So add these fundamental movements a top natural physique in the world uses to your plan. And apply the principles laid out in this article, and you’ll be headed in the right direction to building muscle. 
Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for more workout knowledge from the top natural athletes globally!

By Presser
3 min read

CT Fletcher Shares Side Effects From Anti-Rejection Medication Following Heart Surgery

CT Fletcher recently opened up about some reactions he had from medication following a 2018 heart-transplant surgery.
CT Fletcher quickly turned into a huge name in powerlifting using social media over the last decade. He built a huge following, especially on his YouTube page, where he would share workouts and inspiration to others. During his career, Fletcher has dealt with heart issues that caused him to have multiple surgeries. He recently shared the side effects he had from is anti-rejection medication after surgery in 2018.
In 2001, Fletcher suffered heart damage that eventually led to surgery in 2005. This was the first of two open-heart surgeries for the powerlifter. The second came in 2018 after a major heart attack the previous year. Despite the surgery being over three years ago, Fletcher is still dealing with some complications of his anti-rejection medication.

CT Fletcher posted a video on Instagram on Sunday of his swollen foot. He revealed that this is a common side effect of the medication that is being used to preserve his new heart.
“SOME PEOPLE ACTUALLY LIKE FEET ?
I’M NOT ONE OF THOSE PEOPLE,
EVEN WHEN MY FEET AREN’T SWOLLEN, I DON’T LIIKE LOOKING AT THEM
BUT A YOUNG MAN ASKED IF I UNDERSTOOD HOW EDEMA OR SWELLING CAN HAMPER HIS WORKOUT,
I SAID YES SON, I UNDERSTAND VERY WELL.”

Despite the side effects, Fletcher has continued to inspire others, in and out of the gym. He has continued to show a great passion for the fitness industry and has claimed that he cannot stay away from the gym. In 2019, Fletcher was able to do 25 push-ups, just one year after heart surgery.

Powerlifting is a sport where athletes must rely on others to spot them during a huge lift. CT Fletcher knows a lot about this and it is one of the reasons he vows to help aspiring lifters to this day.
“ITS A COMMON SIDE EFFECT OF ONE OF MY ANTI-REJECTION MEDS,
BUT IT MAKES WEARIN SHOES ALMOST IMPOSSIBLE
MY FEET ARE GROSS, AND I APOLOGIZE FOR POSTING THIS,
BUT ITS FOR THE FOLKS WHO MIGHT BE EXPERIENCING THE SAME THING,
JUST TO LET’EM KNOW, THEY ARE NOT ALONE
AND….ITS STILL THEIR MUTHA FUCKIN SET!”
This is just one instance where CT Fletcher continues to inspire and share his knowledge with others. He is lucky to have been able to get a new heart but the medication has not agreed with him. This will not stop Fletcher from getting in the gym and continuing his passion and love for fitness.
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

By Presser
3 min read

Pratik Mohite Finding Success As World’ Smallest Bodybuilder At Just Over 3 Feet Tall

Pratik Mohite has been recognized by Guinness as the shortest bodybuilder in the world.
Bodybuilding is not an easy sport to get into and not an easy lifestyle to uphold. It can be even more challenging when there are other physical setbacks. Pratik Mohite has not let this hold him back and is finding success as the World’s Smallest Bodybuilder, according to the Guinness Book of World Records.
Mohite has entered over 40 bodybuilding competitions throughout his career and has won several. It took some time for the 26-year-old bodybuilder to get on stage after years of training in the gym and following a specific vegetarian diet.

“I do not have a coach but I do take advice and tips from experienced bodybuilders.”
“The equipment at the gym is manufactured for common people. Since my palms are small, I found it difficult to have a tight grip on things like dumbbells. I had to modify the equipment to suit my needs,” Pratik mohite told guinness.
Pratik Mohite begins his day with a 30-minute run before breakfast. This is followed by a two-hour gym session where he is able to sculp his physique. He also provides numerous updates for his social media accounts, which have grown significantly over time. Mohite has been able to compete many times and hopes to one day claim the titles of Mr. Asia and Mr. World. Outside of bodybuilding, he hopes to one day own his own gym.
It was not easy for Mohite growing up with his disability. With the support of his family and friends, Mohite was able to find a career path and become successful.
“My family are very happy and proud of me and my friends are very supportive and helpful.”

It took some time for Pratik Mohite to be recognized by Guinness for being the world’s shortest bodybuilder because of the pandemic. In February 2021, this dream was released.
“It was my dream to achieve a Guinness World Records title and it’s such an honor to achieve it. I’m very happy and till now, this will be my biggest achievement in my career…Getting a recognition by Guinness World Records is a great step up for me.”
Pratik Mohite continues to train and will only improve from here. He has goals, both on and off the stage, that he wants to achieve. This will be used as motivation moving forward. For now, the achievement of being recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records will be enough.
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

By Presser
3 min read

Tony Pearson: “I Spent My Whole Career Trying To Prove Something” To Joe Weider

[embedded content]

Tony Pearson opens up about his relationship with Joe Weider, being banned from the IFBB Pro League, and later getting reinstated.
Tony Pearson is a pro bodybuilder known for his impressive physique in the 70s, 80s, 90s, and even some Masters competitions to this day. He also went viral (pre-internet version of viral, anyway) for being the bodybuilder that looked like Michael Jackson. But what some may not know is the rollercoaster history and relationship Pearson had with Joe Weider. In our latest GI Exclusive, Tony Pearson speaks openly about his complicated relationship with Joe Weider and how he was banned (and later reinstated) from the IFBB Pro league.
In our previous interview segment with Tony Pearson, we discussed his traumatic upbringing and how he discovered bodybuilding as an escape from poverty and abuse. After confirming his passion and making some progress as an amateur bodybuilder – he decided to move to Los Angeles to take the next step towards pro status. When Pearson landed in LA, he barely had any money to his name. He made his way to Gold’s Gym and simply sat there watching legends train. He couldn’t even afford a pass to actually train there.

What Tony Pearson could afford was a weekly pass to the Venice Beach outdoor training pen. This was his outlet for improving and making gains towards becoming pro. Eventually, he earned his first major victory at the Mr. Venice Beach. Shortly after, Arnold Schwarzenegger approached Pearson while he was training. Schwarzenegger acknowledged his accomplishments and was impressed by Pearson’s work ethic. He claimed that Pearson had what it took to become a true champion.
How Tony Pearson Met Joe Weider

Tony Pearson was only 19 years old at this point. This was a dream come true. The biggest legend in bodybuilding just gave Pearson a critique – and it was one that offered a glimpse to a future as a champion. Not only that, but Arnold Schwarzenegger wanted to connect Pearson with Joe Weider for a meeting. As any bodybuilder knows, Joe Weider at that time was the king of the sport. He could provide a “Weider Contract” – essentially providing a yearly salary as a career bodybuilder.
While nearly all bodybuilders knew of Joe Weider’s reputation, Tony Pearson didn’t know who he was at the time. But he met with Weider anyways – knowing that if it was set up by Schwarzenegger, it must be important. But upon arriving at the meeting, Joe Weider was unimpressed. He gave Pearson a quick look, was seemingly surprised that Schwarzenegger suggested Pearson, and then walked away asking one of his employees to write a short article on Pearson.
“It didn’t go very well with Joe. First thing he said was, ‘Arnold sent you here’ in that voice,” Tony Pearson stated in our interview. He impersonated a sarcastic or skeptical look when impersonating Joe Weider. He then continued:
“And he turned away and said Jack… write an article on this kid, Arnold sent him. And then he just walked away. So from that day forward, Joe and I never got along. He never accepted me. I spent my whole career trying to prove something.”
Vlad Yudin follows up by asking if he was specifically trying to prove something to Joe Weider. Tony Pearson confirms that yes – that moment hang onto his consciousness and motivated him to improve every step of the way.
Tony Pearson’s Ban From The IFBB Pro League
Later down the road, Tony Pearson was finding himself continuing to improve in the sport – but he was still unable to earn enough money to survive. He was offered a guest posing routine abroad – but the event was not sanctioned by the IFBB. Pearson found himself torn between loyalty and earning a living financially. He made the decision to guest pose. Shortly after that he was banned for life by the IFBB.
Perhaps somewhat ironically, this ultimately led to a successful path for Tony Pearson. He continued to compete in other leagues and also had free rein to guest pose in any league that wanted him – without worry of sanctions. He gained popularity and became a pro bodybuilder.
How Does Tony Pearson See Joe Weider’s Legacy?
After his success, it was suggested to him that he write a letter to Jim Manion and the IFBB Pro league – asking to be reinstated. He took the advice and the letter worked. Pearson found himself back in the IFBB and able to compete in the biggest league in the sport. Despite this, throughout his entire career, Tony Pearson never got on 100% good terms with Joe Weider up until his passing.
Looking back, Tony Pearson regrets nothing and holds nothing personal against Joe Weider. He is aware that beyond his personal relationship with him, Weider transformed bodybuilding into what it is today. Without him – there would be no size and scope behind the sport as there is now.
You can watch Tony Pearson’s full comments on Joe Weider and his rollercoaster ride through the IFBB Pro league in our latest GI Exclusive interview segment above!

By Presser
5 min read

Martyn Ford Reveals His Dream Fight Would Be Taking On The Rock

Martyn Ford recently explained why fighting The Rock would be a dream come true.
Martyn Ford is currently preparing to step in the ring against the Iranian Hulk. This is a fight that has been much anticipated and it will take place on April 2 at the O2 Arena in London. When preparing for a match, it sparks some thought on other opponents for certain fighters. For Ford, his dream match would take place against Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson. 
After rumors came out that Ford wanted to fight The Rock, they were blown a bit out of proportion. In a recent Instagram post, The World’s Scariest Man cleared up his comments and explained what he meant when he said he would fight Johnson.

“?? you say one thing , and it kind of explodes ??.
I was asked, who would be your dream fight … there is only 1 for me, @therock for me he is an idol, a legend and what’s he has and is achieving inspires me daily.
Why fight him? Because it would be UNREAL to share a ring, and the hype would be insane … he’s an incredible athlete, a winner, a grinder … it would be one hell of a showcase.
Do I dislike him ??? HELL NO. Would I want to win …. HELL YES ??”

Martyn Ford made it clear that he does not have any disdain for The Rock. It is quite the opposite as Ford referred to the superstar as an idol. There are many times where two fighters step in the ring with great respect for one another and that would be the case here.
The Rock has experience and a background in many martial arts. He has been an incredible athlete since a very young age during his football days. After making a huge name for himself as one of the best WWE superstars of all-time, The Rock moved to the big screen. He is one of the top actors in Hollywood and continues to be a fitness icon.

It is extremely unlikely that this is a fight that would ever happen but all athletes have different dreams. For now, Ford will have to focus on fighting the Iranian Hulk in what is bound to be an exciting night of boxing.
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

By Presser
2 min read

Danial Zamani Benches Presses 804.7Lbs Eclipsing The World Record

Danial Zamani has conquered his 800lb bench press quest!
Danial Zamani has bench pressed 804.7lbs in training for another unofficial world record. The Iranian powerhouse recently posted the feat on social media. The bench press eclipses the official world record of 782lbs.
He promised to do it and it appears that the Iranian strongman and power lifter has made good on his word. Danial Zamani once again showcased why is one of the strongest humans in the history of the planet. After declaring many times over that he would conquer the 800lb bench press, it appears that Zamani has finally achieved his goal.
During a session in the gym, Danial Zamani finally attempted an 800 plus pound bench press. While it wasn’t conducted at an official event, Zamani took on 804.7lbs on the bench and conquered the weight. It was a truly impressive sight to behold.
While the bench press may have been impressive, the achievement hasn’t been made official. Not one to shy away from declarations, Danial Zamani stated that he would replicate the feat in a official competition.
Incredible Bench Press

Danial Zamani posted the feat on his Instagram page.

Here we gooo … 365 kg ( 804.7 lbs) bench press Raw. Heaviest bench press in all history and breaking dream number of 800 lbs ???
What matters the most to me and my coach Babak Ghazbani @babak_ghazbani , was to break 800 lbs bench press number and I have achieved it now. Gods willing and with respect to all my sport seniors world wide who support me, in close future I am willing to attempt 800 lbs in an official world class competition. I request from all the organizers , to bring the opportunity to me with respect to the breaking world record in history consideration, to provide a world class platform inviting the best athletes in the world to prove my number. I promise to attempt 356 and 363 kg both in the meet. These numbers are not easy to attempt multiple times in lifetime and I don’t want to attempt them in any random competition. I need a platform which is worth my lifetime effort.
God’s power and my dear coach Babak Ghazbani knowledge and your positive energy has pushed me to achieve this important achievement in life.
I am thankful and do respect all pro athletes and sport seniors and media pages which supported me so far.

800Lbs King
After seeing him accomplish such a feat it could be just a matter of time before Danial Zamani claims the official world record. That said Julius Maddox is also pushing himself hard in hopes of accomplishing his own 800lb bench press quest.
What do you think of Danial Zamani conquering 804.7lbs?
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.

By Presser
3 min read