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Claire Burton Makes 50 the New 20 in Natural Bodybuilding
Claire Burton dominates natural bodybuilding after turning 50.
They say 30 is the new 20. Well, Claire Burton backs the notion that it’s 50 that’s the new 20. Claire Burton is a British professional natural bodybuilder and competes in the most prominent natural bodybuilding league – International Natural Bodybuilding Association/Professional Natural Bodybuilding Association (INBA/PNBA). In March of 2021, Claire Burton turned 50, and despite moving into a new age decade, she’s had quite the year.
Claire Burton had to say this on Instagram (IG):
“The plan was to take this year ‘out’ and celebrate my 50th Birthday. But the 2020/21 Covid-curveball changed those plans! I hit the BIG 50 in March, the gym reopened 12th April and prep officially started 5 weeks later.”
You can view the full post below:
https://www.instagram.com/p/CW8DxudjC2N/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
In 2021, Burton snatched many titles in natural bodybuilding, including first place in Pro Women’s Physique at the United Kingdom Drug Free Bodybuilding Association (UKDFBA) UK International Championships and first place in Pro Women’s Physique at the INBA/PNBA World Championships. And to end her 2021 season on a high note, she snagged the Women’s Physique Masters gold medal at the 2021 Natural Olympia. Then shortly won Pro FitBody at World Natural Bodybuilder Federation (WNBF) Worlds Championships 32 a week later.
Furthermore, at The Pinnacle of Natural Bodybuilding – Natural Olympia – she placed second place in Pro Women’s Physique Open. The difference between the Women’s Physique Open and Masters is the Masters are women age 40+, while the open has no age barrier. Earning a medal – especially silver – in an Open division is an impressive feat for a Masters’ competitor.
Natural Olympia
Natural Olympia is the most significant event in natural bodybuilding – the Mr. Olympia of the International Federation of BodyBuilding and Fitness (IFBB) league. All competitors participating in Natural Olympia – INBA/PNBA athletes – are thoroughly drug tested by World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) – caliber drug testing in professional sports.
Women’s Physique Division
Claire Burton has competed in both the Women’s Figure and Physique divisions. Women have slightly more muscle mass than the figure class in the physique division – the figure division is more concerned about exhibiting a V-taper from the shoulders to the hips and thighs. However, the physique division has less muscle mass than Women’s Bodybuilding. Both figure and physique classes depend on muscularity, definition, and stage presence.
Personal Trainer
Claire Burton gives her success back by being a personal trainer at Third Space and coach at Fit2Fite. Her passion for fitness and helping people began decades ago as a group exercise instructor and former British kickboxing champion.
She believes in Viper Fitness supplements for nutrition, and she has no shame in admitting her sweet tooth. She stated on social media, “There is nothing nutritionally healthy about this Deep Dish Malteser Pie…BUT it was sooooooo good and it made me smile. I did share some of it.”
She believes you should set sustainable goals and not accomplish everything overnight. The whole “Rome wasn’t built in a day” motto resonates with her deeply. Furthermore, Burton recognizes that personal training is about people above all.
Generation Iron would like to congratulate Claire Burton on her tremendous year in 2021 and wish her a Happy Belated 50th Birthday!
Click the link to see the initial schedule for the upcoming INBA/PNBA 2022 season!
Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter to stay updated on natural bodybuilding athletes!
A Deep Dive Into Pre-Workout Ingredients & Why They Matter
The right ingredients can make or break your pre-workout supplement.
Pre-workouts and pre-workout ingredients have long been talked about. As a supplement, pre-workouts can elevate our energy levels, give us serious boosts to push through fatigue, and provide for serious muscle pumps so we get the most out of our lifts. But finding the right pre-workout products can be difficult and ultimately, so many supplements are full of nonsense ingredients. Premium products are what you deserve and if you know what to look for, then you are on your way to serious gains.
Let’s jump into this and talk pre-workouts. A product is all about the ingredients inside and each supplement has its own formula that separates it from the next. For you, knowing what you are taking is imperative, for while your gains matter, so too does your overall health.
Let’s Talk Pre-Workouts
We’ve all probably heard of pre-workout supplements and what they can do for us. Our busy schedules sometimes require us to find that energy somehow and while some of us can drink a cup of coffee and be fine, others like the added ingredients of this supplement to assist with their gains. Of course, the question of money and necessity come into play, but for those who feel a pre-workout is helpful, they reap the rewards that come with it.
What you will get out of a pre-workout supplement is increased energy and focus as a result of certain ingredients, like caffeine. This will get you moving and give you energy to tackle any challenge. A good pre-workout will also work to reduce fatigue to keep you going through any workout, offer muscle pumps by increasing blood flow for a real increase in strength and size, and enhance recovery to promote more efficient growth and faster turn around time (1,2).
While pre-workouts on the whole are safe to take, it is important to know that the ingredients in your formula dictate how safe and effective it will be. Don’t let a company put some nonsense ingredients in your product just so it can sell. Really push to have the best, most premium products on your shelf. For those sensitive to caffeine, pre- workouts may come with unwanted side effects so that is something to aware of. Thankfully, stimulant-free pre-workouts exist so you can get the same benefits, if not better.
Check out our Best Pre-Workout Supplements list here!
Key Pre-Workout Ingredients To Look For
When it comes to ingredients, you deserve to have the best quality in the formula. Plus, companies should fully disclose what ingredients are in the product and how much of each ingredient the supplement contains.
Let’s take a look at some key ingredients to look for in a pre- workout supplement.
Caffeine Anhydrous: Caffeine will work to elevate energy and increase focus and reaction time. That pre-workout urge you feel to get moving is most likely the result of the caffeine and how it affects you. It will also work to increase your metabolism as well (3).
Creatine: Creatine is great for increasing strength and size and helping to restore those ATP levels to keep you going in those grueling workouts. It also has properties to assist cognitive functioning (4).
BCAAs: The three BCAAs, being leucine, isoleucine, and valine, are perfect for pushing through fatigue, delaying soreness for more efficient workouts, and aiding in muscle growth for the best gains (5).
Beta-Alanine: Beta-alanine can help boost athletic performance, delay fatigue and really reduce lactic acid in your muscle for less soreness, and aid in muscle building.
L-Citrulline: L-citrulline is great for increasing exercise capacity and athletic performance, as well as reducing fatigue and post-workout soreness.
Betaine Anhydrous: Betaine is useful for building strength and peak power output, but also for those looking to change their body composition around for that desired physique (6).
L-Theanine: L-theanine is good for mental assistance and can ease stress and anxiety while taking away the jitters of caffeine. So, you get the energy without the dreaded crashes (7).
L-Tyrosine: L-tyrosine also acts a stress reliever and can improve memory and cognitive functioning for better alertness and workouts (8).
Green Tea Extract: Green tea extract is another source of caffeine, so in turn energy. It will also boost your metabolism for added weight loss benefits and give you a nice boost to carry you through any workout.
Best Pre-Workout Supplements For A Pre-Workout Boost
Now that you know exactly what to look for in a pre-workout, and you know the key ingredients to make sure are on the label, knowing what pre-workout supplements are out there can greatly affect the quality of your product. Some companies just pump out quantity over quality. However, with our Best Pre-Workout Supplements top review, we’ve narrowed a list of the best pre-workouts to make this choice a little easier for you.
On this list, you will find reputable and popular brands like Cellucor, Transparent Labs, Enhanced Labs, and Kaged Muscle. But newer companies have come to the fold and have really made a dent in the supplements game. Brands like National Bodybuilding Co., Pre Lab Pro, and Cira Nutrition are definitely worth checking out. This list will have everything you need to find the best product for you.
Check out our Best Pre-Workout Supplements list here!
Wrap Up
Pre-workout supplements have the ability to really elevate your performance and take it to the next level. It is important, however, to take note of the formula and make sure your pre-workout ingredients are quality and made with you in mind. Don’t settle for a brand that pumps out quantity over quality and really put an emphasis on you, your body, and your gains. The right pre-workout supplement will work wonders for you and can take your bodybuilding and fitness goals to new levels. Be in charge of your training and overall health and only use the best pre-workout supplements around.
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
Ellerbroek, Anya C.; Antonio, Jose (2019). “Effects of Pre-Workout Supplements on Strength, Endurance, and Mood”. (source)
Kedia, A.; Hofheins, J.; Habowski, S.; Ferrando, Arny; et al. (2014). “Effects of a Pre workout Supplement on Lean Mass, Muscular Performance, Subjective Workout Experience and Biomarkers of Safety”. (source)
McLellan, Tom M.; Caldwell, John A.; Lieberman, Harris R. (2016). “A review of caffeine’s effects on cognitive, physical and occupational performance”. (source)
Kreider, Richard B. (2003). “Effects of creatine supplementation on performance and training adaptations”. (source)
Negro, M.; Giardina, S.; Marzani, B.; Marzatico, F. (2008). “Branched-chain amino acid supplementation does not enhance athletic performance but affects muscle recovery and the immune system”. (source)
Cholewa, J.; et al. (2013). “Effects of betaine on body composition, performance, and homocysteine thiolactone”. (source)
Nobre, A.; et al. (2008). “L-theanine, a natural constituent in tea, and its effect on mental state”. (source)
Coull, N.; et al. (2016). “Tyrosine Ingestion and Its Effects on Cognitive and Physical Performance in the Heat”. (source)
The Anabolic Doc Answers: What Do Bodybuilding Fans Really Want? Natural Or Enhanced?
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The Anabolic Doc debates with Vlad Yudin: Will fans really abandon pro bodybuilding if strict drug testing were applied to all leagues?
There’s no doubt that natural bodybuilding leagues such as the INBA/PNBA have been growing over the past decade. But the IFBB still holds strong as the most watched and widely seen league in competitive bodybuilding. While they don’t condone drug use – the IFBB differs from natural leagues by not conducting drug tests. This is true of many pro leagues that do not hold the term “natural” in their title. This begs the question – are untested pro leagues more popular because of the drug use? Will fans abandon these leagues if they were to start strict drug testing? In our latest GI Exclusive interview, the Anabolic Doc shares his thoughts on fan reactions to natural bodybuilding.
Generation Iron: Natty 4 Life was a film that dove deep into the world of natural bodybuilding – revealing a collective of passionate athletes and passionate promoters who want to dedicate their love of bodybuilding to fair drug tested competition. This dedication feels more prescient than ever due to the recent too-soon deaths of many competitive bodybuilders in the sport. While nearly all of these deaths have no announced cause at the moment – the conversation about health for athletes has reached an all time high.
That’s why during our conversation with Dr. Thomas O’Connor, aka the Anabolic Doc, we asked for his opinion on the bodybuilding fanbase as a whole. Namely, do bodybuilding fans want a safer more natural version of bodybuilding? It’s no secret that, while growing, natural leagues still fall behind the IFBB when it comes to mainstream attention. Fans seem to want a safer sport – but not want to sacrifice the mass monster size that has come with PEDs.
The Anabolic Doc thinks that this hypocritical separation comes from a base need in our DNA. Ever since the earliest times of history – humans have been entertained by violent spectacle. The Roman gladiators are used by an example by the Anabolic Doc. Fans separate the men and women from the spectacle – and desperately want to believe that the drug use isn’t the main cause for health issues.
Of course, the Anabolic Doc had dedicated his life to anabolic research. So he knows that continued drug use on a scale seen in pro bodybuilding is definitely dangerous. Despite this, the bar has been set too high in terms of expectations for physiques. It can come at a cost for athletes – but so long as they are willing to take that risk, fans will be enamored with the results.
That being said, the Anabolic Doc also believes that the dislike for natural bodybuilding is overstated. He thinks that the online world has created a loud hateful minority that takes all the spotlight. Perhaps as natural bodybuilding leagues such as the INBA/PNBA continue to grow – we will see a shift in terms of health. But that shift will happen slowly. Perhaps the recent deaths in bodybuilding will be the first chapter in a long book of change.
You can watch the Anabolic Doc’s full comments on natural bodybuilding vs untested bodybuilding in our latest GI Exclusive interview segment above!
Patrick Moore Hints at Moving to Classic Physique?!
Did Patrick Moore just hint at moving to the Classic Physique division.
Looking to shake things up in his career, it appears that Patrick Moore could be moving to the Classic Physique division. It comes as a bit of a shock considering that Moore shut down the idea in the past.
Sometimes a change is necessary in order to see further progress. After all, if you do what you’ve always done then you’ll get what you’ve always got. Patrick Moore is taking this notion to heart as he’s decided to potentially make a major shift in his career.
It appears that one of the staples of the Men’s Open Bodybuilding division is looking to make a change. Long time competitor Patrick Moore has hinted at switching divisions. Moore has potentially decided to try his hand at the Classic Physique division.
This may come as a bit of a surprise especially considering that Patrick Moore shut such notions down not too long ago. Now it seems that he’s had a change of heart. It appears that Moore is willing to pit his considerable physique against Chris Bumstead and the other standouts in the Classic Physique division.
A Time to Change
Patrick Moore made his intentions known in a social media post on his Instagram page.
What if the comeback wasn’t for open……What if it was for classic physique? What if I cared more about my condition, lines and aesthetics more than size? What if I took all this time to break down muscle and switch categories? Stranger things have happened….?!! #thefuture ?
There’s no doubting that Patrick Moore has an incredible physique. His physique has never been the problem. Size is often what has held him back in his carrier. His latest physique, weighing in at 226lbs, shows a trim yet heavily muscled Moore looking more than capable of taking out anyone in the Classic Physique division.
Me reading all the comments about me switching to classic!? 226lbs in this pic. Whatever I ultimately decide to do, will be because it’s my body, my career and my choice. It’s about health and wealth. Everything else is white noise?? #thefuture
It may have yet to be confirmed for certain, but what is clear is that Patrick Moore is more than willing to flirt with the notion of jumping division. If he does you can expect the already exciting Classic Physique division to become much more interesting.
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.
Kai Greene Reveals Recent Physique Update
Kai Greene showed off some poses on social media recently.
It has been an ongoing question of whether or not Kai Greene will be returning to the stage. While there might not be a plan in place, the 46-year-old bodybuilder continues to show off a shredded physique and intense training regiment.
Greene often takes to social media to show off a big workout or physique update. On Thursday, he did just that. Greene posted a few pictures on Instagram showing off some poses and getting some input from his 6.7 million followers. In his caption, Greene kept it short and sweet.
“Character Development.”
“Which pose ya’ll FEELIN the best ?,” greene then wrote in the comments.
It is no surprise that Kai Greene is looking as big as ever. He is a monstrous man that has seen great success on stage. Greene has developed a huge fanbase over the years and these are the people wondering if he is going to make a comeback. This is something that Greene has flirted with over the years, especially with a rivalry with seven-time Olympia champ Phil Heath.
While a return has not been announced and it is unknown if it ever will, Kai Greene continues to crush the gym.
Since turning pro in 2005, Greene has been a force in bodybuilding and quickly became a fan favorite. He has never won an Olympia but finished as the runner-up three times in 2012, 2013, and 2014. All three second-place finishes came to Heath, which is where the rivalry comes from. Greene is a three-time champion at the Arnold Classic. He won back-to-back titles in 2009 and 2010 before adding his third in 2016.
Kai Greene grew a passion for fitness and bodybuilding at a young age and turned it into a successful career. He continues to work as a personal trainer and provide insight to the next generation looking to better themselves.
It is clear that Greene can still get it done in the gym. In all his physique updates, Greene is hitting some poses and that shows he still has a passion for bodybuilding. As time goes on, keep an eye on if he decides to make a return to the stage. It will be extremely intense if Greene makes that move.
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Annihilate Your Workout with These Landmine Exercises
Annihilate your workout with the landmine.
So potentially with many places having restrictions and with gyms still being closed a lot of us have had to think outside of the box for our workouts. So today I am going to delve into the world of the Olympic bar, and more specifically landmine moves using the Olympic bar.
But, this isn’t going to be your same old, same old landmine workouts or movements like the landmine shoulder press, the landmine chest squeeze, the landmine T-Bar row or even the landmine squat.
Today, the focus will be on movements you may not necessarily see at the gym but they will definitely challenge you to the maximum.
So let’s begin…
Landmine exercises:
Muscle worked: Back and rear delts
Meadow Rows
Named after legendary bodybuilder John Meadows, who the move is named after, but Meadows has since himself admitted that he has seen footage of Franco Columbu doing a variation of the movement back in the day on muscle beach.
This exercise is used to target the back and if utilized properly can also target the rear deltoid area, secondary muscles utilized can also be the biceps.
How to do it:
Place Olympic bar into landmine position
Add desired plate, maybe a smaller height plate so you can get the range of motion
With a staggered step, lean forward and grasp the barbell with overhand grip
Begin exercise by rowing the weight up so that the rowing hand ends up just outside of your chest
At the top of the movement you should feel a contraction in the shoulder blades
Lower the weight down and repeat accordingly
Muscle worked: Hamstrings
Landmine deadlift
Regular deadlifts can become monotonous, so a good way to spice things up is the landmine deadlift.
How to do it:
Place Olympic bar into landmine position
Load desired weight load
Legs hip width apart, stand with the bar in between your legs
You will be gripping the end of the barbell, for ease you can also use a V-Bar handle
Then lift the weight by pushing your hips back and hinging forward until the bar is just below knee height.
Ensure to drive through back of heel to ensure hamstring contraction
Lower weight down and repeat (you can either do a RDL or stiff leg version of this movement)
Muscle Worked: Quads (and Hamstrings)
Low Grip – Landmine split squat
Another variation to the split squat, rather than having the bar on your shoulders or at a higher height you will actually be holding the landmine as a low grip.
How to do it:
Place Olympic bar into landmine position
Add desired plate
Stand with your feet staggered with the landmine adjacent to your forward leg
Forward leg and gripping hand should be on opposites sides, so if forward leg is left gripping hand should be right
Hold landmine with overhand grip
Grab the landmine and stand up into the staggered squat position and ensure the torso is vertical
Ensuring the load should be on the lead leg, stand up and continue downwards into the split squat
End with the back knee bent as it touches the floor
Repeat on the other leg
Muscle worked: Shoulders
Single Arm Landmine Jammer
Another exercise you may not see at the gym unless your gym has the hammer strength jammer machine which is specifically made for this exercise.This is a great exercise to target the shoulders and front deltoids.
This exercise can either be done slowly and controlled or be performed as an explosive movement.
How to do it:
Place Olympic bar into landmine position
Load desired weight load
Feet shoulder width apart with knees slightly bent
Then pick up the barbell with hand you want to begin with
Push the barbell up
Catch it and repeat
You can either push it so it goes from one hand to the other in the same set, or do one arm at a time.
To make it a more explosive movement, ensure your add explosiveness from the hips while twisting into the movement.
Muscle worked: Biceps
Single arm Landmine Bicep curl
This is essentially a concentration curl. Load the landmine accordingly then grip the end of the barbell and curl towards you just like a regular bicep curl.
You probably won’t be able to use 45lb plates as they will impede the movement so stick to using smaller sizes plates.
Muscle worked: Abs
Landmine overhead sit ups
Again set up the landmine accordingly with your desired weight, again heavy load is not essential as form is crucial.
Lie back, and you can either have knees bent or legs straight.
Hold the end of the barbell with both hands, then come up accordingly and feel the contraction at the top, then slowly come back down and repeat the movement.
Variations
Landmine alternating overhead sit ups:
Here you do a single arm landmine overhead sit up, then switch hands at the top of the movement. And then keep switching at the top of the movement each time until the set is complete.
Another variation:
Another great single arm variation is that at the top of the movement, if you are holding the barbell with your right hand then push the landmine from the center to the left so it incorporates some of your right oblique muscles.
Landmine Ab rollout:
Like the traditional ab rollout a landline can also be used.
Set up the landmine accordingly.
Then kneel on the ground and grip the end of the barbell with both hands.
Keep your arms straight and lean forward and roll out, then roll back in accordingly.
Landmine oblique ab rollout:
So this rollout will target the oblique muscles.
To get an idea of how this move works, the roll out will start from your oblique area and go past your shoulders and diagonally past your head.
Simply set your body up in a push up position, with one hand gripping the barbell (with an overhand grip), and the other hand in a push up stance.
Then slowly roll out, and just as in a regular roll out, and come back in. Ensure to repeat both sides.
So there we have it, some compelling Olympic bar landmine moves to turn you into a home gym Olympian!
When You Should Take Your Pre-Workout Supplement For Optimal Effect
Knowing when to take pre-workout is crucial for your bodybuilding and fitness goals to really maximize the effects of this great supplement.
Using a pre-workout supplement can prove to be quite useful in your quest for big gains. As a source of fuel for energy, muscle pumps, and overall performance, these supplements have the ability to work wonders for you when it comes to elevating your workouts to new levels. Pre-workout aids are some of the greatest supplements to use to get past that drained, sluggish feeling and into that powerful mindset to see growth seriously occur.
Knowing the ins and outs of pre-workout is important for many contain artificial ingredients and plainly things you just don’t want in your body. What the ingredients are, how to properly use pre-workout, and when to take it are all fair questions that you should know the answers to. Let’s take a closer look at pre-workout and see what this energy boosting, muscle building supplement can do for you.
What Is Pre-Workout?
Pre-workout is a supplement designed to give you a much needed energy boost for intense focus and serious muscle pumps for your workouts so you start to really see big gains come to fruition (1). By increasing your heart rate, pre-workout can get your blood pumping and hit you with laser focus to really maximize big gains. Key ingredients in pre-workout include caffeine, beta-alanine, creatine, BCAAs and L-citrulline, all meant to provide you with energy, focus, and stimulate protein synthesis (2).
With an increased heart rate and reduced fatigue, you can work harder and longer for more calorie burn leading to weight loss and a change in body composition to really see that desired physique start to pop. On top of all of this, a good pre-workout can enhance recovery so you bounce back faster for your next workout.
Just to recap, benefits of pre-workout include:
Increased focus and energy for more intense workouts
Reduced fatigue for longer training sessions and calorie burn
Muscle pumps for strength and muscle gains
Enhanced recovery for quicker bounce back
When Should You Take Pre-Workout?
Pre-workout usually takes around 30 minutes to kick in fully so taking this supplement in the window of 30-60 minutes before your workout is ideal. Allowing it time to settle in your bloodstream and start to take effect is the intended goal and while the caffeine may hit you quickly, the other ingredients like creatine may take a little longer. Staying hydrated is key when taking pre-workout and also watching your caffeine intake because many of pre-workouts are high in caffeine. For those sensitive to caffeine, thankfully there are stim-free pre-workouts to try!
Benefits Of Pre-Workout With Cardio
Pre-workout is often most associated with big lifts, but it can be useful for cardio depending on the situation. Since pre-workout supplements offer increased energy and endurance, they can help with cardio activity and ultimately help you see gains (3). Since you are working muscles during cardio, the benefits of pre-workout with protein synthesis do take effect, but they may not be as strong as if strictly lifting. Doing more steady state cardio and taking a pre-workout supplement can be still be helpful when it comes to duration, productivity, and focus.
Pre-workout may be more useful when it comes to cardio training like high-intensity interval training (HIIT), where the focus in on shorter, more intense bursts of activity. With increased energy and focus, on top of elevated stamina, performing HIIT after a consuming pre-workout can work to build muscle and shed unwanted fat by relying on fat stores for energy (4). The benefits of pre-workout along with HIIT can show an increase in oxygen consumption and improved lean body mass.
One concern with pre-workout and cardio is that both can elevate your heart rate. Cardio is already an activity that pushes blood and gets your heart racing and the caffeine in a pre-workout supplement can only elevate caffeine levels. This is where a stim-free pre-workout may be useful.
Cardio: Before Or After You Lift?
Before we get into this, it should be said that some people have a certain preference to do cardio before weightlifting or prefer to lift before cardio, so whatever feels comfortable for you is what you should stick with. With that said, for those trying to gain muscle, lifting first is a better bet because you will have more energy to use. You will then rely on reserves, preferably fat stores, to power your cardio increasing your chances at weight loss.
Performing cardio before a workout can work to increase your body temperature to get you primed and ready to lift. With increased oxygen and blood flow pumping through you, your chances at an effective lift increase. The only downside is some of those glycogen stores will be used up and your lifts may seem harder to achieve (5). Doing a shorter cardio warm up to get the blood flowing will enhance your lifts and will promote a better cardio session after to really see a change in body composition.
Recommended Pre-Workout
National Bodybuilding Co. is a relatively new company who has already started to make waves in the supplement game with their great products. Stage Ready Pre-Workout is their premiere pre-workout supplement to deliver muscle pumps, enhance stamina, and offer a big boost in energy to elevate performance. An advanced and effective formula, this product can hydrate your muscles and act as a buffer for muscle tissue, raise nitric oxide levels and boost neurotransmitter synthesis. With so many benefits, this pre-workout had to win the GI Supplement Awards for Best Pre-Workout of the Year.
Check out National Bodybuilding Co. Stage Ready Pre-Workout and the other finalists for Best Pre-Workout in the GI Supplement Awards here!
Wrap Up
Pre-workout supplements are really solid fitness aids to help power your workouts to where you want them to be. By working to increase energy and focus and provide for muscle pumps, you will power through any tough workout despite the grueling day you may have had. Knowing how to properly use pre-workout is important and taking it at the right time will only enhance the intended effects. While cardio and weightlifting are both crucial for your growth, look into what you want out of your workout to strategically place each in the right spot for maximum gains. All in all, pre-workout can help you see growth and is a supplement you should try in your quest for big gains.
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
Kedia, A. W.; Hofheins, Jennifer E.; Habowski, Scott M.; Ferrando, Arny A.; Gothard, M. D.; Lopez, Hector L. (2014). “Effects of a Pre-workout Supplement on Lean Mass, Muscular Performance, Subjective Workout Experience and Biomarkers of Safety”. (source)
Harty, Patrick S.; Zabriskie, Hannah A.; Erickson, Jacob L.; Molling, Paul E.; Kerksick, Chad M.; Jagim, Andrew R. (2018). “Multi-ingredient pre-workout supplements, safety implications and performance outcomes: a brief review”. (source)
Ellerbroek, Anya C.; Antonio, Jose (2019). “Effects of Pre-Workout Supplements on Strength, Endurance, and Mood”. (source)
Roy, Brad A. (2013). “High-Intensity Interval Training”. (source)
Burke, Louise M.; Kiens, Bente; Ivy, John L. (2004). “Carbohydrates and fat for training and recovery”. (source)
Best Holiday Gifts To Buy A Bodybuilder This Season
These gift ideas are great for any bodybuilder looking to improve!
Finding the best holiday gifts for our loved ones can ironically be quite challenging. We at Generation Iron put together a wish list of great gift ideas to give that bodybuilder friend or family member something to use to improve in their quest for performance and physique.
We all could use these gift ideas to really boost our health and performance, or just look good doing so. From equipment, to supplements, entertainment, and apparel, you will find everything you need for that special bodybuilder of yours to provide them with the perfect gift. Reviewed by our team and put together for your benefit, we made sure to give you the best list to make your bodybuilder smile.
Check out these best holiday gift ideas below and feel free to explore what else we offer to really make that gift great. You won’t be disappointed with the result!
Supplements
Enhanced SLIN
Enhanced SLIN is a great supplement designed to take carbs and turn them into muscle. Using a unique insulin mimetic, this shuttles carbs into your muscles instead of being stored as fat.
Enhanced Labs SLIN is designed to put carbs into muscle. A unique insulin mimetic that shuttles carbs into your muscles instead of being stored as fat, this supplement is perfect for optimizing insulin to work for your benefit. Insulin resistance can be brutal towards our health, muscle growth, and fat loss and SLIN works to eliminate the negative effects and works to your benefit to get that desired physique we all work for. With science backed ingredients, this versatile and popular supplement can work wonders for your bodybuilding goals.
Price: $34.99
Check out our individual review for Enhanced Labs SLIN here!
Cellucor C4 Ultimate
Cellucor C4 Ultimate is a powerful pre-workout supplement designed to increase energy, provide powerful muscle pumps, and enhance focus for peak performance. Effective ingredients and a fully transparent label ensure you get the best for your pre-workout needs.
Cellucor C4 Ultimate is a great pre-workout supplement designed to help you see results and achieve peak performance so all your goals are met. This supplement will work to deliver serious energy, provide powerful pumps, enhance better muscular endurance, and offer extreme focus so you see huge gains and reach peak performance. Clinically studied ingredients are mixed into a cutting-edge formula to only give you the best when it comes success.
Price: $23.99
Check out our individual review for Cellucor C4 Ultimate here!
Enhanced Labs Whey Protein Isolate
Code GENIRON For 15% Off
Enhanced Whey Protein Isolate is a high quality whey protein with just 110 calories and 25g protein. Fortified with DigeSEB digestive enzyme blend, this allows for better protein utilization in your body.
Enhanced Labs starts by selecting the highest quality whey proteins which undergo a series of sophisticated filtration processes to ‘isolate’ out excess fat and sugar. The final product is a complete protein containing no lactose and over 90% of pure protein per serving. Enhanced Whey is then fortified with the trademarked DigeSEB digestive enzyme blend for better protein utilization within the body. With 25g of protein at just 110 calories, this high-quality whey is perfect for your muscle building and recovery goals.
Price: $64.99
Check out our individual review for Enhanced Labs Whey Protein Isolate here!
Performance Lab NutriGenesis Multi For Men
Performance Lab NutriGenesis Multi For Men is a specifically formulated multi for bodybuilders to help with all their needs. With 17+ essential daily vitamins and minerals, this top tier formula is great for overall health and wellness.
This ultramodern multivitamin from Performance Lab contains more than 17 daily vitamins and minerals and is geared towards the specific needs of men. It is great for bioavailability because of whole-food cofactors that provide optimal absorption. Containing vitamins A, C, E, and K, along with biotin, calcium, iron, zinc, and potassium, this multivitamin will work for digestive comfort, support vitality, and promote solid overall health.
Price: $29.25
Check out our individual review for Performance Lab NutriGenesis Multi for Men here.
Enhanced Anabolic IV
Enhanced Anabolic IV is for those serious about building muscle and boosting recovery. With 23 highly effective ingredients, six blends work to tackle all of your needs.
Enhanced Labs Anabolic IV is a great BCAA supplement for those serious about muscle gains. Providing everything you need from a muscle-building and recovery supplement, Anabolic IV ensures you get all of those critical BCAAs as well as additional essential amino acids. BCAAs will promote protein synthesis and the added EAAs will actually build the tissue on top, adding strength and size. Other great benefits of Anabolic IV are increasing fat burning, supporting optimal hormone balance, and decreasing fatigue while elevating endurance performance.
Price: $54.99
Check out our individual review for Enhanced Labs Anabolic IV here.
Transparent Labs PhysiqueSeries Fat Burner
Code GENIRON10 For 10% Off
Transparent Labs Fat Burner is a great burner to expedite weight loss in 3 ways. A 100% honest label ensures quality ingredients and optimal effectiveness.
Transparent Labs Fat Burner is a great fat burner supplement to expedite weight loss by allowing you to shed fat, maintain muscle, and build that ideal physique for whatever comes your way. Working with 3 ways to expedite fat loss, this works to increase loss by determining how many calories you should burn, prevent hunger to eliminate snacking and unwanted calories, and offer an enjoyable weight loss experience so you actually work for your fat loss goal more effectively. This company works to provide total transparency with a 100% honest label so you know exactly what you are getting.
Price: $49.00
Check out our individual review for Transparent Labs PhysiqueSeries Fat Burner here!
Equipment
Harbinger 4-Inch Nylon Weightlifting Belt
Harbinger 4-Inch Nylon Weightlifting Belt is a great belt for supporting your lower back during those heavier lifts. Thick and flexible nylon is matched by quality and durability for ensured longevity.
A good quality weightlifting belt will provide for increased support and stabilization to improve big lifts and reduce lower back pain. Harbinger 4-Inch Nylon Weightlifting Belt is a great exercise tool to keep your bodybuilder safe and efficient in the gym. Made from thick, flexible, heavy-duty nylon, this belt works for maximum comfort and durability while working on maintaining muscle warmth. With parallel stitching, this belt offers more uniform support and stabilization to ensure better quality. The belt is 4-inches with an extra wide 3-inch strap that offers lower back and abdominal support for those big lifts.
Price: $15.75/ large belt (prices may vary for other sizes)
Check out our full review of Harbinger 4-Inch Nylon Weightlifting Belt here!
Alkai M1 Massage Gun
ALKAI M1 Massage Gun is designed to enhance physical performance and speed up recovery with an easy grip, long lasting battery, and many speed settings.
ALKAI M1 offers a great deep tissue percussion massage gun to enhance physical performance, support recovery, and aid in muscle soreness. With three specific modes (fitness, medical, and health), each provides four unique levels of speed to tackle whatever needs you want met. Six massage heads offer variations in targeting specific spots for pain and an LCD touch screen allows for easy navigation and use. With 20 hours of battery life on a single charge, this is a great massage gun for overall value.
Price: $169.99
Check out our individual review for ALKAI M1 Massage Gun here.
Hydra Cup High Performance Dual Shaker Bottle Pack
Hydra Cup Dual Threat Shaker Bottles offers a two-in-one shaker bottle with 36 ounces of total liquid to hold all your beverage and supplement needs.
Hydra Cup brings this top-tier dual shaker bottle to the mix to really benefit all of those pre-, mid-, or post-workout needs. Able to hold 36 ounces total fluid, one side of this bottle holds 22 ounces while the other can hold up to 14 ounces. Eliminating the need for two bottles, and just having the convenience of your supplements ready to go, ensures easy hydration and fuel for those tough workouts. This high quality and durable shaker bottle comes with two snap on lids and a dual mixing grid for easy clean up and great blending capabilities for the right consistency.
Price: $29.99
Check out our full review of Hydra Cup Dual Shaker Bottle here.
Serious Steel Fitness 32’’ Resistance Training Bands
Serious Steel Fitness 32’’ Resistance Training Bands are perfect for strength training and mobility goals. Ranging from 2-200lbs., these bands are portable, functional, and high quality.
Serious Steel Fitness 32’’ Resistance Training Bands offer next level resistance training to improve your overall strength and mobility goals. These resistance bands range from 2 lbs. to 200 lbs. and are made from 15 layers of continuous latex. Portable and functional, you can take these anywhere be it at home or in the gym. Offering 32’’ and a high-quality resistance band, Serious Steel has done a great job with this product so you can maintain tension and have a full range of motion throughout your entire workout.
Price: $36.90
Apparel
Enhanced Stringer
Enhanced Labs Stringer is a comfortable and versatile tank perfect for bodybuilding and other training needs.
This great stringer from Enhanced is high quality and perfect for bodybuilding, training, lifting, and simply looking good. In an option for white or black, the Enhanced logo is plastered on the front for all to see. Enjoy a comfortable and versatile piece of clothing today.
Price: $34.99
Generation Iron Stamp Snapback Hat
Generation Iron Stamp Snapback Hat is perfect for any occasion with a five panel construct and structured fit and the Generation Iron logo displayed on the front and side.
The five-panel Stamp Snapback Hat is structured with a fit and flat bill to comfortably fit on your head in style. Able to easily wick sweat away, this will give you a clean look keeping you feeling fresh and fit. The Generation Iron logo is embroidered on the front and side so everyone will know that you’re part of a serious bodybuilding community.
Price: $20.99
Enhanced Gym Bag
Enhanced Gym Bag is a quality gym bag perfect for carrying your equipment and supplements to and from the gym for the utmost convenience.
Give yourself the best chance at success with this gym bag from Enhanced. Able to fit all your gym necessities, this is your perfect transport friend to never worry about leaving equipment or dealing with an uncomfortable gym bag again.
Price: $29.99
Generation Iron Camo Stringer
Generation Iron Camo Stringer is designed for versatility, comfort, and breathability with a unique camo pattern design.
This limited edition Camo Stringer will show off those big gains while being versatile and breathable for any workout. The comfortable fit and standout design make this nylon tank specifically designed for both training and style so you look and feel good both inside and out of the gym.
Price: $34.99
Movies & E-Books
Generation Iron Original Films
Generation Iron Original Movies are a collection of amazing content highlighting bodybuilders and other athletes, as well as giving viewers a chance to see the sport in a new light.
A great gift to get your bodybuilder is one of the many films that Generation Iron has to offer. Highlighting famous and well-known bodybuilders like Dorian Yates, Lee Priest, Calum Von Moger, and Ronnie Coleman, you can see both amazing and entertaining content.
Of course, for those who know Generation Iron well, our originals like Generation Iron, Generation Iron 2, and Generation Iron 3 dive into the world of bodybuilding to explore this incredible and historic sport. Check out our full list of original films for your bodybuilder will love this premium content.
Dorian Yates E-Book
Dorian Yates Training Journal is the entire bodybuilding career of legendary bodybuilder, Dorian Yates, in his own words as he chronicled five years of his training.
Dorian Yates is a 6x Mr. Olympia champion and one of the biggest bodybuilding legends in the sport, working to change it forever. He took vigorous personal notes during his prime years and has finally made them available in e-book format with the Dorian Yates Training Journal. These notes go back to his first competition and chronicles his iconic “blood and guts” training style as he sought to be the absolute best. This e-book contains a selection of 100 pages of Dorian Yates’ actual training notes as he journeyed through the world of bodybuilding towards becoming a Mr. Olympia champion and all-around bodybuilding legend.
Price: $29.99
Wrap Up
When looking for the best holiday gifts for that bodybuilding loved one, look no further than right here. From exercise equipment, immune boosting supplements, entertaining documentaries, fresh apparel, and an educational e-book, we at Generation Iron have all of your gift ideas covered. Keep those gains going with some of these great gifts and really help that bodybuilder friend or family member continue to grow both inside and out of the gym.
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.
Best supplements for College students in 2022
Many college and high school students aspire to pursue bodybuilding as a career. If you’re one of them, you need to start familiarizing yourself with supplements. These are dietary supplements used by people involved in bodybuilding, martial arts, weightlifting, and other athletic sports. However, not every supplement is good for you. What might work for a pro might not work for you as a beginner. That means you need to find supplements that are not too hard on you and those that come with a low budget. We are committed to providing you with all the information you need as accurately as we can. Here are some of the best supplements a college student can use in 2022.
Creatine
First on our list is this natural molecule that is produced by your body. However, one can up the level of creatine in their body by taking its supplement form. The chemical is known to increase a bodybuilder’s energy to lift heavier weights. It also enhances their stamina, hence allowing them to train longer. Most creatine supplements available in the market can increase a bodybuilder’s muscle and tissue power up to 40% above normal levels. Most importantly, the supplement increases muscle mass considerably. The result is enhanced performance and a well-cut body.
> > Platinum CREATINE TestoPrime Weight Gainer SERIOUS MASS Tri-Protein THE WHEY BETA – ALANINE
INBA/PNBA Release Initial Schedule for 2022 Season
INBA/PNBA has released its initial schedule for the upcoming 2022 natural bodybuilding season.
International Bodybuilding Association/Professional International Bodybuilding Association (INBA/PNBA) has prepared its schedule for 2022. INBA/PNBA is one of many natural bodybuilding leagues, but it’s the biggest. Most bodybuilding leagues don’t support the use of drugs. However, the INBA/PNBA is the leading trailblazer for getting their athletes drug tested – each athlete undergoes strict testing through World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) – state-of-the-art drug testing the Olympics use. Any competitor who fails a drugs test ends up on the infamous Hall of Shame.
The natural bodybuilding competitions listed below are events that take place up until the big finale on November 10-13th – Natural Olympia – Pinnacle of Natural Bodybuilding. So it’s essential to do well in the other shows to earn a spot at this contest. It’s the biggest event of the year for natural bodybuilders akin to Mr. Olympia in the International Federation of Bodybuilding (IFBB) league.
Below you can find the INBA/PNBA schedule for 2022.
INBA/PNBA 2022 Schedule
March
19th – INBA/PNBA Judges Clinic
Corona, CA
26th – Arizona Copper Classic
Sierra Vista, AZ
April
2nd – Capital City Championships
Sacramento, CA
10th – Iron Gladiator
Corona, CA
16th – Jaguar Bodybuilding Championships
Sierra Vista, AZ
23rd – Showdown in Memphis
Memphis, TN
30th – Pro/Am Philip Ricardo Legends International
Virginia
May
7th – Pikes Peak Classics
Colorado
14th – Professional America’s Natural & Amateur Illinois State
Chicago, IL
21st – New England Naturals
Oakville, CT
21st – Silver & Black
San Leandro, CA
28th – Pro/Am International Battle Against Cancer
Corona, CA
June
4th – Arizona State
4th – Pro/Am Southern USA
Atlanta, Georgia
24-25th – World Championships
Florence, Italy
July
2nd – Pro/Am Mr & Ms USA
Dallas, TX
9th – Central California & Kern County
Bakersfield, CA
23rd – Pro/Am North American
Chicago, IL
30th – Pro/Am International Iron Man Magazine Muscle Beach
Venice Beach, CA
August
6th – Pro Wolfpack & Cougar Classic California Naturals
Petaluma, CA
13th – Colorado State
Colorado
20th – Pro/Am Nationals
Oakville, CT
27th – Utah State
Springville, UT
September
2-3rd – Mike O’Hearn Presents Clash of the Titans Professional Natural Universe
Tampa, Florida
10th – Pro/Am Int. Zeus Classic
San Leandro, CA
17th – Nevada State Naturals
17th – Pro/Am International Latin American Championships
23-24th Pro/Am Team USA & Las Vegas Naturals
Las Vegas, NV
October
15th – Grand Canyon Classic
TBA – Midwestern USA
22nd – Western USA
San Leandro, CA
November
4-5th Pro/Am World Cup
Los Angeles, CA
10-13th – The Pinnacle Pro/Am Natural Olympia
Las Vegas, NV
*Note: This is the initial schedule for 2022 in the INBA/PNBA league. More competition dates are pending.
Olympics of Natural Bodybuilding
Natural Olympia is the Olympics of natural bodybuilding. It hosts the finest natural bodybuilders in the world, with 2021 representing 15 countries. The 2021 champions included athletes from Italy (Angelo Mastrangelo – Men’s Sport Model ), Mexico (Arely Ayala – Bikini Angels), and Germany (Mirco Burger – Men’s Bodybuilding Masters). Contenders compete for up to over $65,000 in cash and prizes and a custom Harley Davison prize – Philip Ricardo Jr. was the lucky winner of 2021 Natural Olympia.
Below you can watch behind-the-scenes coverage of 2021 Natural Olympia.
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Generation Iron would like to congratulate the natural bodybuilders who participated in the INBA/PNBA league competitions in 2021! In addition, we want to add a supplementary congratulations to Paul Krueger for winning Mr. Olympia at 2021 Natural Olympia! We’re looking forward to the upcoming year!
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As a personal trainer and writer, Terry loves changing lives through coaching and the written word. Terry has a B.S. in Kinesiology and is an American College of Sports Medicine Certified Personal Trainer. When he’s not writing or training, he enjoys playing music, reading, and film.