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Generation Iron Network To Produce Biopic On Legendary Pro Bodybuilder Robby Robinson
The documentary film will chronicle the iconic life story of Robby Robinson, his illustrious pro bodybuilding career, and his game changing 6-Step Blueprint to the best physique of your life.
Generation Iron Network in association with The Vladar Company have announced that they are set to produce a feature film documentary exploring the life story of pro bodybuilding legend Robby Robinson. An iconic athlete from the “Golden Era” of bodybuilding, Robinson is the first ever black man featured on the cover of a bodybuilding magazine. He is also well known for using his platform to advocate for equal rights in the sport.
Born and raised in Florida, Robby Robinson was one of 14 children – son to an illiterate mother and bootlegger father. He grew up facing extreme poverty and racism throughout his entire childhood. Overcoming the odds, Robinson discovered bodybuilding and competed in over 300 amateur competitions before entering the IFBB Pro league. He would go on to become a star competitor and eventually make history as the first ever Mr. Olympia Masters champion.
During the prime of his career, he was openly outspoken in bodybuilding over racism and unfairness in the sport – and even put his career on the line to promote change. His comments proved controversial at the time eventually landing him a double-lifetime ban from the IFBB Pro league forcing him into retirement. Despite no longer being able to compete, he remained in shockingly impressive shape well into his 60s and 70s – often being touted as finding the fountain of youth.
“It’s a rare opportunity to work on a film about one of the most interesting, unique and underrated figures in bodybuilding,” says director Vlad Yudin. “Robby Robinson’s film will not focus solely on his bodybuilding career. It will dive way beyond the sport and explore Robby’s struggle, purpose and legacy.”
The Robby Robinson biopic will chronicle his entire life story from struggling in childhood and through his illustrious yet controversial career. It will explore the nuance behind his claims of racism in the sport – including statements made against beloved bodybuilding figure and mogul Joe Weider and the subsequent backlash. A complicated yet inspiring figure in the sport, the film will unearth the man behind the myth and muscle.
The documentary will also follow Robby Robinson’s current life including the friendship he formed with Tim Taylor. A man who hired Robinson for a four day training session that led to Taylor befriending the notoriously private Robinson very late in his life. Robinson had never let anyone inside his private life until meeting Taylor.
Through their bond and trust – Robby Robinson transformed Tim Taylor’s life and physique at 56 years old using a 6-Step Blueprint. This transformative fitness program was not documented until Robinson and Taylor trained together for those 16 weeks. Taylor documented their training conversations into a journal every day and created the 6-Step Blueprint in order to replicate them long term. 50 years of Robinson’s wisdom and knowledge organized into a training system like never before.
Taylor now believes bringing this 6-Step Blueprint to the public eye will solidify the legacy of Robinson – the final crowning achievement that he can leave behind long after he is gone. Acting as a sort of window into the true Robby Robinson – audiences will witness a never before seen side of the legend.
The Robby Robinson biopic will be directed by Vlad Yudin (Generation Iron, Ronnie Coleman: The King, Dorian Yates: The Original Mass Monster) and produced by Edwin Mejia Jr. (Canyon Del Muerto, Generation Iron, The Hurt Business, Ronnie Coleman: The King) and Tim Taylor.
The Robby Robinson biopic is set to be released in 2022 on limited screens.
Photo courtesy of Jason Ellis Photography.
Generation Iron Network
Generation Iron is the first digital media company delivering health, fitness, bodybuilding and strength sports content worldwide. Since launch, Generation has been the leading publisher of original programming, films, and premium entertainment content with the biggest names in Strength Sports worldwide. Generation Iron today is dedicated to making the highest quality digital series aimed at educating and entertaining fans and athletes. Today, Generation Iron has a catalogue of over 30 titles and in depth docu-series which have built the backbone of its original programming.
The Vladar Company
The Vladar Company is a media and entertainment company, which focuses on developing, financing, and packaging a library of intellectual properties. Recent films include Jeremy Scott: The People’s Designer, The Hurt Business, Medeas, and Generation Iron. The company has become a leading producer of many niche genres and multiple mediums in US and international markets, while also expanding into acquiring and distributing high quality content.
Vladar continues to develop, finance, and release projects in different formats as well as create and build media brands. Vladar also focuses on creating and developing new distribution models, and contributes to the success of independent film and TV production.
*Header image courtesy of Jason Ellis Photography
Mr. America Champ Corey Brown On His First Cheat Meal After A Momentous Victory
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Corey Brown Answers: What Will Be His First Cheat Meal After Winning Mr. America 2021?
This past October held one of the biggest and most historic bodybuilding events of the year – the Mr. America 2021. With its roots going back all the way to 1939 – the competition somewhat disappeared in the new millennium until 2020, when it was revived with the aim of going mainstream in the sport. Now in its second year of revival, the event has already received much attention, praise, and a featured broadcast on CBS Sports. We had a chance to chat with the Men’s Open champion from the event, Cory Brown immediately after his victory. In our latest GI Exclusive interview, Cory Brown shares what his first cheat meal will be after being crowned Mr. America.
The Mr. America competition has a dedication to represent the purity of competition within bodybuilding. With that in mind, its revival decided to ensure that this was a natural show by committing to WADA standard drug testing. With a media coverage partnership with Generation Iron and CBS Sports Network broadcasting – it’s well on its way to reaching a wider audience and, hopefully, making bodybuilding more mainstream. Partially leading that charge will be the champion athletes – such as Mr. America 2021 winner Corey Brown.
Generation Iron had a chance to catch up with Corey Brown right after his victory. Still stunned by the weight of the victory, Brown showcased himself as a humble but confident athlete and champion. He shared insight into the kind of work he had to put in to earn the title and also his future plans for the coming year.
But competitive bodybuilding can also take a major strain on your psych when it comes to nutrition and dieting. After putting so much effort into being perfect for stage, it’s only natural for an athlete to indulge in a bit of a cheat meal. With Corey Brown being somewhat new to the public gaze – we wanted to help let fans get to know Brown a little better now that he’s Mr. America champion. We thought of the perfect way – what’s his ideal cheat meal to celebrate his big victory.
Still somewhat awe-struck from his victory, he claimed that he had a lot going on in his head. Ultimately, he landed on trying something delicious and new to him. Not being native to the east coast of the US, he had always heard New York pizza is the best in the country. He wants to put that to the test and grab a slice or two for himself.
“Since this is my first time on the east coast, I want to try something on the east coast that I’ve never ate,” Corey Brown stated during our interview. He continued:
“I don’t ant to go to no chain restaurant. One of my guys told me that if I ever tried pizza here or in New York that I’ll never want pizza again when I go back. So I wanna see how good their pizza is actually.”
The staff here at Generation Iron (a New York located business, by the way) wish Corey Brown the best on his pizza journey and hope it lives up to his expectations. It only makes sense to try the best pizza in America when you’re the Mr. America champion.
You can watch our full post-victory interview with Corey Brown in our latest GI Exclusive interview segment above!
Martins Licis Sets New World Record With 300-Pound Hammer Lift
Martins Licis had quite a weekend during the 2021 Rogue Invitational.
Martins Licis made his return to competition over the weekend during the 2021 Rogue Invitational. He ended the event with a championship and even broke a world record in the process. After winning the competition, Licis returned to Dell Diamond in Round Rock, TX to win yet another award.
Licis was one of five competitors to return and attempt to break the world record in Thor’s Hammer Lift. In the end, it was Licis who was able to complete the heaviest lift by getting a new world record of 136kg (300lb) off the ground.
For his victory at the strongman competition, Licis earned the largest winning in the history of the sport at $133,351. After setting the world record in the hammer lift, Licis added another $5,000 to his overall pot.
The Thor’s hammer Lift is a grip challenge. The competitor must hold the handle of the gammer and lift it off the ground to a full standing position. The judge then gives the down command and this is when the weight can be returned to the ground. The competitor could use either hand and even change hands on each attempt. This was a timed competition where athletes had one minute to complete the lift.
Hafthor Bjornsson held the previous world record at 118kg (260lb). Over the weekend, the opening weight was 90.kg (200lb) and all six competitors were successful. It was the raised to 102kg (225lb) and all but Trey Mitchell were successful. It eventually moved up to 125kg (275lb), which was more than Bjornsson’s record. Mikhail Shivlyakov set the initial mark followed by Mateusz Kieliszkowski. Laurence Shahlaei did not control the big lift after initially getting it off the ground.
Josh Thigpen was also eliminated and the weight was moved up to 300lb. Shivlyakov attempted the lift with both hands but miss and Kieliszkowski failed as well. This left Licis to make an attempt and was able to complete it with his left hand. Licis then attempted to lift a 147.3 (325lb) hammer but failed. It did not matter as his 300-pound feat was enough to set a new world record.
Martins Licis has been one of the best strongmen in the world for years now. He won the 2019 World’s Strongest Man title. He has been out of competition for awhile now with different injuries but made his return in Texas and put on a memorable performance.
Licis will certainly be present at upcoming strongman events to continue to put up big numbers. When healthy, there is no doubt that he is one of the top competitors in the sport.
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
An Arm Workout You’ll Feel Until Next Week
The arm workout you will write home about.
Let’s be honest. Everyone loves training arms. Some bros (to look like total badasses) might say that legs are their favorite muscle group to train but push them a little, and they will tell you arm workouts run a close second. And at this point, you will know the truth.
We hate to break this to you, but there is no “alpha male“ without jacked muscles. A pair of ripped pythons can make you stand out. Jacked arms are symbolic of strength, look aesthetically appealing, and garner attention, whether in the workplace or on the street.
Although you might see people in your gym training their arms more than twice a week and flexing their guns at every chance they get (yes, even on leg days), but only a very few lifters have pythons that the Greek gods would approve.
Mostly, the reason behind lagging arms development is not a lack of training equipment or intent but a dearth of correct training techniques. If your arm workouts only consist of a few bicep curls and tricep pushdowns, do not be surprised if your tiny wigs never grow into venomous pythons.
Also Read: 5 Ways To Bring Up A Lagging Body Part
Workout Principles For a Kickass Arm Workout
Arms are a relatively smaller muscle group. While you do not need as much intensity while training your guns as you would while training your lower body, do not use this as an excuse to show them mercy. Here are the principles you should be following during your arm workout:
1. Antagonistic Supersets
Lifters tend to train their favorite muscle group at the beginning of a workout. While some people train biceps at the beginning of their arm workout, others start with triceps.
The problem with this technique is that by the time you get to training your weaker muscle group, you are fatigued, and do not have enough gas left in the tank to break new ground.
Not only do antagonistic supersets lay the groundwork for biceps and triceps muscular balance, but they also are time efficient.
2. Hypertrophy
Hypertrophy refers to an increase in muscular size achieved through exercise. To achieve hypertrophy, you should perform 12-15 reps per exercise and not rest more than 60-90 seconds between sets.
In this arm workout, you will not be stopping for rest between exercises while performing the antagonistic supersets.
Remember: Do not lift a weight that is too light, as that will not allow you to see the same gain of definition.
Related: 5 Ways To Write a Great Training Program
3. Rest-Pause Sets
Most individuals usually perform 12-15 reps in a set. After a few training sessions, people get a good idea of how much weight they need to be lifting to hit failure by 12-15 reps.
While there is nothing wrong with this technique, you need to remember that we are on a mission to remain sore until our next arm workout. We want to push our arms to their limit.
Rest-pause sets give your ATP (adenosine triphosphate) reserves enough time to replenish so that you can perform an additional 5-10 reps without getting you out of hypertrophy.
Muhammad Ali explained this the best when he said:
“I don’t count my sit-ups; I only start counting when it starts hurting because they’re the only ones that count.”
Also Read: How To Increase The Time Under Tension To Maximize Your Gains
4. There Are No Accessory Muscles in This Arm Workout
Forearm training is an afterthought in most arm workouts, but this routine is unlike most regimens. Bodybuilding is a game of illusions. Muscular forearms and small joints (if you have them) can give an illusion of bigger arms. Stick with this arm workout for 12 weeks, and you might end up looking like The Hulk – at least in the arms department.
Check Out: Advanced Training Techniques To Take Your Gains To The Next Level
5. Mind-Muscle Connection
Bodybuilding is not about lifting as heavy as you can or just going through the motions for the sake of it. If you want your biceps to look like mountain peaks and triceps to resemble horseshoes, you need to focus on contracting your muscles with every rep.
The better your mind-muscle connection, the more muscle fibers you will be recruiting during your exercises. A higher degree of muscle activation also means that you lower the chances of injuries during your sets.
You should not turn your rest periods between sets into dead time. Utilize that time to flex your muscles as hard as you can and hit your favorite poses.
Related: 6 Ways To Improve Your Mind-Muscle Connection
6. Shock Your Muscles Into Growing
Your muscles stop responding when they get used to your workouts. Contrary to popular opinion, you do not always need to perform new exercises to stimulate muscle growth.
If you perform the arm workout laid out in this article for eight straight weeks (which you should), you could add variety to your workouts by switching the number of sets, reps, and advanced training techniques. Never perform the exact same workout for more than three weeks on a stretch.
With all said and done, here is a simple gauge to find out if your arm workout was a success: are you able to touch your right shoulder with your right hand? If yes, then you did not go hard enough. Keep taking this test between your sets to check how you are doing.
Must Read: This is How Your Training Should Change as You Get Advanced
8 Week Arm Workout From Hell
As Big Ramy would say, “the winter is here.”
If you have lagging arms, the “bulking season” is a great time to work on them. Carve them while they are under wraps, and come out brandishing your polished guns when the sun is out.
1. Superset
(a) Standing Bicep Cable Curl: 3 sets 12-15 reps, no rest
Steps:
Adjust the pulley to the lowest setting.
Attach a straight bar to the pulley.
Grab the bar with a supinated (palms facing up) grip and stand upright with a shoulder-width stance.
While keeping your elbows pinned to your sides, curl the bar toward your chest.
Hold and contract your pythons at the top for a couple of seconds.
Return to the starting position with a slow and controlled motion.
Repeat for recommended reps.
(b) Straight Bar Tricep Pushdown: 3 sets 12-15 reps, 30-60 second rest
Steps:
Attach a straight bar to a cable stack as high as possible.
Stand with an upright torso in a shoulder-width stance.
Grasp the straight bar with a pronated grip (palms facing down) and lean forward slightly by hinging at the hips.
Initiate the movement by extending your elbows and flexing the triceps.
Pull the handle down until your elbows are almost locked out.
Squeeze the life out of your triceps at the bottom of the movement.
Return to the starting position with a controlled motion.
Repeat for repetitions.
Rest-Pause: 10 seconds 8-10 reps
Every exercise in this workout routine (except forearm lifts) includes a rest-pause set. Meaning – after performing 12-15 reps of an exercise, rest for 10 seconds, and then perform 8-10 more repetitions of the same movement with the same weight before moving onto the next lift.
2. Superset
(a) EZ Bar Skullcrusher: 3 sets 12-15 reps, no rest
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This is no accident. You will be alternating between biceps and triceps as the first exercise of your supersets. This technique will ensure that you are training both muscle groups with the same intensity.
Steps:
Choose your desired weight and sit on the edge of a flat bench with the EZ bar on your lap.
Lay back while lifting the bar to your chest.
Once in position, press the bar until your arms are fully extended and perpendicular to the floor.
While keeping your elbows pinned in position, lower the weight towards your forehead by lowering your forearms.
Once you are a few inches away from your forehead, reverse the movement by extending your elbows while flexing the triceps to lock out the weight.
Repeat for the desired number of repetitions.
(b) Zottman Curl: 3 sets 12-15 reps, 30-60 second rest
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Steps:
Hold a pair of dumbbells by your sides with your palms facing each other.
Curl the weights up to your shoulders, keeping your upper arms still and turning your hands so your palms face up as you lift.
Pause at the top of the movement and slowly rotate your grip so your palms are facing downwards.
Lower the dumbbells slowly back to the starting position using the overhand grip.
When the dumbbells are close to your thighs, turn your hands so that your palms are in the starting position facing one another.
Rest-Pause: 10 seconds 8-10 reps
3. Superset
(a) Barbell 21s: 3 sets 12-15 reps, no rest
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Steps:
Stand upright with a shoulder-width stance.
Grab a barbell and hold it in front of your thighs.
While keeping your elbows pinned to your sides, curl the barbell to the halfway point (up to your belly button).
Return to the starting position and complete seven repetitions with this range of motion.
Without pausing, curl the same weight all the way to the top, then lower the weight to the halfway point and back up again. Perform this for 7 reps.
Finally, perform 7 reps of full barbell curls from the bottom to the top.
(b) Dumbbell Kickback: 3 sets 12-15 reps, 30-60 second rest
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Steps:
Position yourself on the left side of a flat bench with your right knee and right hand resting on the bench.
Using a neutral grip, pick up the dumbbell with your left hand. Keep your back straight and look forward.
Tuck your left upper arm close to your torso and bend at the elbow, forming a 90-degree angle with your upper arm and forearm. This is the starting position.
Moving only at the elbow, raise the dumbbell behind you until your arm is fully extended.
Pause, and then lower the dumbbell back to the starting position.
Repeat this movement for desired reps before switching sides.
Rest-Pause: 10 seconds 8-10 reps
4. Superset
(a) Single-Arm Overhead Extension: 3 sets 12-15 reps, no rest
Steps:
Stand upright in a shoulder-width stance.
Grab a dumbbell with one hand and position it behind your head with the elbow flexed to 90-degrees.
Place your other hand on your side or abdomen for stability.
Press the dumbbell upward until your arm is fully extended.
Pause and contract your tricep at the top of the movement.
Repeat for recommended reps before switching sides.
(b) Dumbbell Hammer Preacher Curl: 3 sets 12-15 reps, 30-60 second rest
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Steps:
Grab a dumbbell in each hand and sit on a preacher bench.
Keeping your elbows flexed and your palms facing each other (neutral or hammer grip), place the backs of your upper arms flat on the pad.
Lower the dumbbells in a slow and controlled motion until your arms are fully extended.
Curl the dumbbells back to the starting position explosively.
Pause and contract your pythons at the top of the movement.
Repeat for reps.
Rest-Pause: 10 seconds 8-10 reps
5. Superset
(a) Supinated Grip Pull-Up: 3 sets 12-15 reps, no rest
Steps:
Grab the pull-up bar with your hands roughly shoulder-width apart and your palms facing towards you.
Bring your shoulder blades down and contract your lats and biceps to pull up until your chin rises above the bar.
Pause at the top and squeeze your biceps.
Slowly return to the starting position and repeat.
(b) Diamond Push-Up (weighted): 3 sets 12-15 reps, 30-60 second rest
Steps:
Get on all fours with your hands together under your chest.
Position your index fingers and thumbs so that they are touching, forming a diamond shape.
Extend your arms so that your body is elevated and in a straight line.
Lower your chest towards your hands while ensuring you do not flare your elbows out to the sides.
Stop when your chest is a few inches away from the floor.
Return to the starting position explosively.
If the bodyweight version of this exercise feels too easy, feel free to add resistance by getting someone to place a weight plate on your upper back.
Rest-Pause: 10 seconds 8-10 reps
6. Triset
(a) Pull-Up Bar Hang (Dead Hang): 3 sets failure, no rest
Steps:
Use a step or bench so you can easily reach the bar. You shouldn’t jump into a dead hang.
Grab the overhead bar with a shoulder-width overhand grip.
Hang on to the bar while keeping your arms straight.
Hang for as long as you can.
(b) Farmer’s Walk: 3 sets 30 seconds, no rest
Steps:
Grab a dumbbell in each hand.
While standing tall, keeping your shoulders, back, and core tight, walk at an even pace for 30 seconds.
(c) Behind Back Cable Wrist Curl: 3 sets failure, 30-60 second rest
Steps:
Attach a straight bar to a low pulley.
While facing away from the pulley, squat down, and grab the bar with a pronated grip.
Squat back up and stand with a shoulder-width grip.
While keeping your arm straight, slowly open your hands and let the bar slide from inside your palms to the tip of your fingers.
Return to the starting position by clenching your fists so that the bar is raised into your palms.
Curl your wrists and hold for a count of two.
Return to the starting position and repeat for the desired number of repetitions.
Conclusion
Disclaimer: It is absolutely normal for your arms to cramp up during the day after you perform this brutal arm workout. Get accustomed to the pain, and it will not be long before you put on an inch on your arms. Good luck!
How often do you train your arms? Let us know in the comments below.
Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
cbdMD 750mg Freeze Roller Review For Premium Pain Relief
This CBD roller combines instant cooling with soothing power of superior hemp extract.
Product Overview
For many of us athletes, paying attention to our health and wellness, including both mental and physical, is of the utmost importance and CBD can be of great help. We push our bodies to the limit and at times, it can feel as though we have nothing but pain. Of course, after a big lift or heavy cardio session we’ll feel that slight discomfort, but when it starts to really affect you, it can seem debilitating. cbdMD 750mg Freeze Roller is a premium topical perfect for boosting all your gains and taking them to new heights when it comes to staying as healthy as possible.
CBD is a great supplement to promote muscle pain relief, reduce anxiety and improve mood, support better sleep, and help boost your immune system, among other benefits. A great CBD supplement will be of the highest quality and can work to boost your overall mental and physical health as best it can. cbdMD 750mg Freeze Roller is one such product to do this and much more and is a great CBD supplement to absolutely consider.
cbdMD Freeze Roller combines the instant cooling relief of menthol with the soothing power of Superior Broad Spectrum hemp extract for the best fast-drying gel to relieve muscle and joint pain.
cbdMD is on a mission to enhance the overall quality of life while bringing CBD education, awareness, and accessibility to all. Knowing exactly what CBD can do for people is important to them as they strive to make everyday wellness your new normal through the power of innovation, premium product selection, and a true passion to help the consumer. By working with athletes and other health-minded partners, cbdMD is a trusted and reputable source to get all your CBD supplements.
cbdMD 750mg Freeze Roller Highlights
cbdMD 750mg Freeze Roller delivers instant cooling relief with the soothing power of superior hemp extract. Made with multiple cannabinoids and terpenes on their unique Superior Broad Spectrum formula, it includes great ingredients like menthol to assist with cooling and temporary pain relief. Those who should consider this amazing CBD product are athletes or any day folks who want to take away discomfort, enhance exercise recovery, manage stress and anxiety, and support and promote a daily wellness routine.
With hemp extracted from non-GMO hemp plants grown in the United States, and all products registered in accredited labs and third party tested, you know exactly what you are getting with this product. Available in 4 strengths including 300mg, 750mg, 1,500mg, and 3,000mg, the options for your health and wellness have never been better.
Ingredients
Hemp Extract: Works to provide for faster recovery, reduce inflammation, alleviate stress and anxiety, support your immune system, and allow you to feel less discomfort as a result of exercise or general wear and tear (1,2,3).
Menthol: Acts as a pain reliever and anti-inflammatory agent to provide a cooling sensation for better relief (4).
Aloe Vera: Can provide antioxidants that prevent joints from cell injury and damage and will help repair injured tissue (5).
Arnica Montana Extract: Will help relieve pain and can alleviate those sore muscles and sprains (6).
Tea Tree Oil: Can help relieve inflamed skin and works for wound healing as well.
Other Ingredients
Hydroxyethylcellulose, Isopropyl Alcohol, Helianthus Annus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Ilex Paraguariensis (Yerba Mate) Leaf Extract, Tocopherol, Glyceryl Caprylate, Caprylhydroxamic Acid
Price & Effectiveness
cbdMD 750mg Freeze Roller is a great CBD topical perfect for all your pain relieving wants and needs. With 3 fl. oz. per container, this easy to roll-on product comes in four strengths being: 300mg, 750mg, 1,500mg, and 3,000mg. It is also available in a Squeeze option as opposed to a roll-on.
Pros
Great cooling and pain relieving feel
Works great for alleviating discomfort, enhancing exercise performance, and reducing every stress
Made from home grown, non-GMO hemp extract sourced in the U.S.
Cons
Premium priced option
For those who want to ingest CBD, this product is obviously not for you
Price: $59.99
Featured cbdMD Athlete
Flex Lewis
Flex Lewis is an IFBB pro bodybuilder who works with cbdMD to use and promote their great products. To help with his own muscle and recovery goals and keep him thriving as he continues his successful bodybuilding career, Lewis relies on cbdMD to provide him with the best CBD supplements around in order to take full advantage of their awesome products. Lewis is a 7-time Olympia 212 winner with a win at the 2014 Arnold Classic in the 212 event. Looking to continue an accomplished career, Lewis continues to use cbdMD supplements to power him through to the end.
Check out our list of the Best CBD Supplements for more great pain relief and soothing products!
Overall Value
cbdMD 750mg Freeze Roller is a great topical designed to give you the best when it comes to all things CBD and muscle recovery related. As a top supplement to alleviate pain and enhance exercise performance, this topical is made from only the best ingredients around. What you are really getting is a high-quality CBD topical made from premium ingredients with an honest and reputable company backing you. Try cbdMD 750mg Freeze Roller today and work to give yourself the best in terms of performance and recovery.
Try cbdMD Freeze Roller Today
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 cbdMD, Flex Lewis Instagram, and Envato
References
Hammell, D.; et al. (2015). “Transdermal cannabidiol reduces inflammation and pain-related behaviours in a rat model of arthritis”. (source)
Russo, E. (2008). “Cannabinoids in the management of difficult to treat pain”. (source)
Shannon, S. (2019). “Cannabidiol in Anxiety and Sleep: A Large Case Series”. (source)
Gillis, D.; et al. (2020). Influence of Menthol on Recovery From Exercise -Induced Muscle Damage”. (source)
Hekmatpou, D.; et al. (2019). “The Effect of Aloe Vera Clinical Trials on Prevention and Healing of Skin Wound: A Systematic Review”. (source)
Kriplani, P.; et al. (2017). “Arnica montana L.- a plant of healing: review”. (source)
Why You Should Stay Away From The Barbell
Stay Away From The Barbell
Barbell exercises have been a symbol of badassery for a long time. “How much do you bench?” is casually thrown around in the gyms all around the world. Many people are always on the quest to increase their 1RM (one rep max).
“Why?”, you ask? Because, as the broscientists put it; if the rod ain’t bending, you’re just pretending. Barbells are great if you’re just starting to lift weights because they can correct your form. Compound movements with barbell also help in increasing your core strength.
There is no doubt, barbell can be really helpful in building muscle mass and strength, but it comes with a price. This is why you should stay away from the barbell.
Increases The Chances Of Injury
Compound exercises using a barbell can shoot up your chances of an injury since multiple joints are involved. For eg – in an exercise like the squats, your legs are the focus muscle group but you might recruit your lower back while performing the movement.
Supporting muscles will always be weaker than the primary muscles. This puts you at the risk of an injury. The three exercises where most injuries happen are the barbell bench press, squats, and deadlifts.
It is especially important for a person with a record of injuries to stay away from the barbell. There is an alternative exercise or a variation of these exercises you can perform while significantly reducing the chances of an injury.
2. Play Safe With The Dumbbells
If you’re looking for a substitute for the barbell, dumbbells are your best bet. Dumbbells help you do all the exercises you perform with a barbell while reducing the chances of an injury.
Using dumbbells can also help you improve your range of motion resulting in a better development of muscles. If you’re suffering from joint pains or an injury, you should switch to using dumbbells.
Many pro athletes like Kris Gethin have almost eliminated the use of barbell in their training routines. If you plan on staying in the fit lifestyle for an extended period, do yourself and your joints a favor and start working with dumbbells.
3. Squeeze Your Way To Growth With Cables
Cables are an incredibly effective isolation exercise which can help in getting muscle ripping pumps. Apart from the good feeling, bodybuilders chase a pump because all the nutrients travel to your focus muscle group through blood.
The muscle building macronutrient, protein travels through the blood to your target muscle and helps in repairing and developing the muscle. Add a cable exercise in your workouts to optimize your muscle growth.
Using cables makes sure there is constant tension on your muscles throughout the movement. On the barbells and dumbbells, your muscles are worked on the concentric (flexing) movement and all the tension is released on the eccentric (downward) movement.
4. Avoid Muscle Imbalances
It is no secret one of your sides is stronger than the other. For a right-hander, his right side might be stronger than his left, and a left-hander might be stronger on his left side.
Using a barbell can make your muscle imbalances more prominent as your stronger side might take over while performing an exercise with the barbell. Your body does this to compensate for the weaker side.
Using dumbbells, on the other hand, makes sure both your sides are equally used. You can even work on your weaker side by performing unilateral exercises. Unilateral exercises involve working one side at a time. This helps in focusing on and developing the weaker side.
Do you agree with this approach of training? Let us know in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook and Twitter.
Posterior Chain Training for Greater Gains
The Many Benefits of Posterior Chain Training
Strength training can be used for a multitude of reasons – to improve aesthetics, strength, performance or reduce the risk of injury.Perhaps you’ve been having some problems with your training programs and the results just don’t quite live up to your expectations.This article will look at the posterior chain and highlight the many benefits of regularly training it. In addition, the article will provide a fantastic posterior-chain training program for you to use.
Why It Is Vital To Train The Posterior Chain
Nowadays, people are sitting for long time periods and are generally less active than in years gone by. This can wreak havoc with our posture, alignment, and general movement.The biggest issue that many face is commuting to work and work itself. Many individuals work in an office and therefore often seated for the best part of the day. Being seated for many hours can lead us to forget about good posture and proper alignment which can apply a great deal of stress to our muscles and joints (1).As a result of this stress, our bodies adapt to accommodate long periods of sitting by shortening the hip flexors and hamstrings (leg) which adversely alters pelvic tilt. Furthermore, the shortening of the pectorals (chest) can pull the shoulders forward and consequently cause the rounding of the upper back & shoulders.Many individuals with forward shoulders have lost the ability to fully retract and depress the shoulders.
As a result of muscles shortening, tightening and being underutilized, the joints can become less mobile and stiffer.Many office workers display postural problems such as forward head, rounded back & shoulders, tight hamstrings & stiff hips.Not only is this not a good look, but it can significantly reduce performance and increase the chances of experiencing an injury.The combination of tightened muscles and muscular imbalances is dangerous and may significantly increase the chances of sustaining an injury.In addition to this, pain can be a real issue with shoulder, back, arm, wrist, and neck pain coming out on top in a recent study (2).Considering the role that the posterior chain plays in posture, movement, and performance, strengthening these muscles should be a top priority.
Feeding the Postural Problem
The issue with many strength training programs is that they fail to take into account postural starting points and how your work or daily habits may impact your posture.
Typically, strength & hypertrophy programs use a 1:1 push to pull ratio. Pushing exercises tend to develop the anterior chain whereas pulling exercises work the posterior chain.When starting strength training, the majority of beginners target all the anterior chain muscles as they are most visible. In fact, it’s not just beginners who do this – at some point, everyone will have been guilty of overdeveloping the anterior chain and neglecting the unseen posterior chain.The problem with developing the anterior muscles more quickly than the posterior muscles is that you are simply exacerbating any postural issues that may exist (3).Now, this is not to suggest that you should remove all anterior-focused exercises from your program, rather the overall volume should be adjusted so that more posterior chain work is performed.While it is important to adjust the volume to increase the amount of posterior work, it must be accompanied with appropriate mobility work to maintain joint health and promote efficient movement.As you will see in the program, there is a great emphasis on the posterior chain strength and mobility. There is a specific focus on the shoulder depressors, retractors & external rotators, the glutes & hamstrings, and core.When you consider the role that the core plays in maintaining good posture, strengthening muscles such as the multifidus, diaphragm, erectors spinae & transverse abdominis can have a huge impact on posture (4).Furthermore, increasing core strength can also lead to a better performance with a number of compound lifts, such as the squat, deadlift, bench, bent rows, and overhead press.
Work Considerations
If you are an individual who works in an office or spends a long portion of the day seated, look to increase your activity levels throughout the day.If you must sit for the majority of the day, aim to adjust your seated position every hour, if possible.As the day progresses, pay particular attention to your posture and how you are sat. Being aware of your own body position and adjusting yourself regularly can have a significant impact.Good posture involves keeping upright by extending the spine, pushing the chest high, pulling the shoulders back & down, and keeping the core engaged (5).Be very aware of your neck position too. It should be in a comfortable, neutral position with the head back and ever so slightly extended.Initially doing this may feel strange, however as with learning a new exercise, the more you practice, the better you become at it to the point where it is automatic.Ensure your desk is set up to allow you to sit with good posture. If you find that your posture is poor when seated, place a tennis ball between you and the chair to “remind” you to maintain good posture.
Posterior Chain Training Program
The following sample posterior chain program has two parts – warm-up and strength training. It has been designed to improve both posterior chain strength and movement.
Part 1: Warm-Up
As mentioned earlier, while strengthening the posterior chain muscles is crucial, it must be accompanied with appropriate mobility work.Ensure that you complete the following 4-stage warm-up prior to commencing the strength work.The warm-up is a key part of the session as it can help to increase range of motion, performance and reduce injury risk.It is recommended to complete the warm-up on rest days too as performing it more regularly will improve mobility and reduce fatigue & DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness).
1. Soft Tissue Release (i.e foam rolling)
Focus primarily on the pec minor, lats, adductors and quads. Spend some time on any muscles that are tight or sore.
2. Stretches
Stretch out the levator scapulae, pecs, subscapularis, traps, lats, hip flexors, quads, adductors, and calves.
3. Mobility Work
Use the following exercises to mobilize a number of joints:
– Cat-cow to child’s pose (spine & pelvis)– Knee to wall drill (ankles)– Strider exercise, a worlds greatest stretch, 90-90 hip stretch and adductor stretch (hips)– T-spine foam roller extension and lying t-spine rotation stretch (thoracic spine)
4. Activation Exercises
Use the following muscle activation exercises and complete 1 set of 10-15 reps to adequately prep the muscles for lifting:
– Wall slides– Band pull aparts– Glute bridge
Part 2: Strength Training
For safe and effective exercise, good technique is vitally important. If you are unsure always consult an exercise professional.The exercises that have been selected work posterior muscles from a variety of positions and angles in order to stimulate muscle fibers efficiently to comprehensively develop strength and size.It’s important to remember that this is a sample program and therefore may not fit your goals or levels of experience. It can be adjusted to suit. For optimal back and shoulder development, use a number of rowing variations that use multiple angles and positions.Focus on hip-hinging movements along with single-leg squat variations, abduction work & bridges to effectively target the glutes.Finally, for core development, use exercises that require the body to resist extension, rotation, and lateral rotation.
Day 1: Upper Body
Exercise
Sets x Reps
1. Chest Supported Dumbbell Row2. Chest Supported Dumbbell Rear Delt Fly
3 x 10-123 x 12-15
1. Neutral Grip Dumbbell Chest Press2. Chest Supported W-Raise
3 x 10-123 x 12-20
1. Seated Machine Alternating Row2. Banded Y Raise (with 2-second holds)
2 x 12-152 x 6-12
1. Half-Kneeling Landmine Press2. Hollow Body Isometric Hold
2 x 10-121-2 sets
Day 2: Lower Body
Exercise
Sets x Reps
Barbell Romanian Deadlift
4 x 10-12
1. Reverse Lunges2. Seated Band Abduction3. Single-Leg Hip Thrust4. Pallof Press
3 x 10-123 x 15-203 x 8-122 sets
Day 3: Upper Body
Exercise
Sets x Reps
1. Seated High Cable Row2. Standing Band W Raise
4 x 10-124 x 12-15
1. Pull-Overs2. Prone Lower Trap Raise
3 x 12-153 x 12-15
1. Alternating Seal Row2. Push-Ups
3 x 8-123 x 12-15
1. Behind the Neck Pull Aparts (with 2-second holds)2. Long Lever Plank
2 x 12-151-2 sets
Day 4: Lower Body
Exercise
Sets x Reps
Barbell Sumo Deadlift
4 x 8-10
Bulgarian Split Squat to Romanian Deadlift
4 x 10-20
1. Feet-Elevated Banded Glute Bridge2. Banded Dead Bug3. Suitcase Carry
2 x 15-202 x 6-122 x 1-1.5 mins
Final Word
Having a strong posterior chain is highly beneficial for day-to-day activities. However, it is important that mobility is also prioritized in conjunction with all strength work.
The program outlined in this article is a surefire way to effectively develop the posterior chain and prevent or eliminate a whole host of postural issues.
References:
1-van Vledder, Nicole; Louw, Quinette (November 10, 2015). “The effect of a workstation chair and computer screen height adjustment on neck and upper back musculoskeletal pain and sitting comfort in office workers”. The South African Journal of Physiotherapy. 71 (1). doi:10.4102/sajp.v71i1.279. ISSN 0379-6175. PMC 6093093. PMID 30135880.
2-pubmeddev. “Office ergonomics: deficiencies in computer workstation design. – PubMed – NCBI”. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov.
3-Negrete, Rodney J.; Hanney, William J.; Pabian, Patrick; Kolber, Morey J. (2013-4). “UPPER BODY PUSH AND PULL STRENGTH RATIO IN RECREATIONALLY ACTIVE ADULTS”. International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy. 8 (2): 138–144. ISSN 2159-2896. PMC 3625793. PMID 23593552.
4-Hsu, Shih-Lin; Oda, Harumi; Shirahata, Saya; Watanabe, Mana; Sasaki, Makoto (2018-8). “Effects of core strength training on core stability”. Journal of Physical Therapy Science. 30 (8): 1014–1018. doi:10.1589/jpts.30.1014. ISSN 0915-5287. PMC 6110226. PMID 30154592.
5-“Posture – Office Ergonomics – Grand Valley State University”. www.gvsu.edu.
Regan Grimes to Compete Against Nathan De Asha at Prague Pro
Regan Grimes will compete at the Prague Pro joining fellow top bodybuilder Nathan De Asha.
It appears that we’ll get to see a showdown between Regan Grimes and Nathan De Asha at the Prague Pro this weekend. Hot off the heels of an impressive victory at the KO Pro Egypt, Grimes is set to compete once again with a very quick turnaround.
Some times you have to quit while you’re ahead. It’s a notion that many believe in, the idea of playing it safe after already achieving your perceived goal. Most anyone can understand doing that. It’s the natural move to make of course. Apparently Regan Grimes missed the memo where that thought process is concerned.
Impressive Win
Having just secured his spot for the 2022 Olympia with his triumphant win at the KO Pro Egypt competition, many thought Regan Grimes would sit on the sidelines and continue to improve his physique. His dominant victory at the KO Pro Egypt has certainly given him som momentum as he showcased a truly impressive physique.
On To Prague
Having qualified for the big show, there’s really no point in continuing to compete is there? But instead of sitting out the rest of the year and prepping for next fall, Regan Grimes has stated his intentions to compete at the Prague Pro this coming weekend.
5 DAYS OUT!! @evls_prague_pro_official▪️Coach @milossarcev and I decided we would do another show! As we are pleased with getting the qualification for the 2022 @mrolympiallc at the KO Pro that is no reason for shutting it down just yet! This is my PROFESSION and I love competing! Feeling fresh and ready to bring an improved physique from the KO PRO in just 5 days!
Regan Grimes won’t be the only top pro to compete at the show. Nathan De Asha who has already qualified for the 2022 Olympia himself is set to compete in Prague as well.
Ready For Prague
That means we can expect a head to head clash with two of the best bodybuilders in the game today. Both Regan Grimes and Nathan De Asha are making some great improvements to their physiques. Grimes in particular is truly impressive considering he’s only just recently changed coaches in the last several weeks.
Working with Milos Sarcev is proving to pay some massive dividends for Regan Grimes. If he can continue to improve exponentially, you can expect Grimes to make good on Sarcev’s predictions of being a contender for the Mr. Olympia title in the coming years.
What do you think of both Regan Grimes and Nathan De Asha competing at the Prague Pro despite being qualified for the 2022 Olympia already?
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.
It’s All In The Wrist: Should You Train Forearms?
Here is why you should train forearms.
The forearms, like the good old calf muscles, is so often an afterthought for many, as it is often tacked onto the end of an upper body workout and given minimal intensity of stimulation to grow, and then there is some of you don’t even do that and simply don’t train those muscle groups. Shame on those people.
But when it comes to forearms, is it worth training them outside of the bedroom? Should you dedicate a whole session to training that one small muscle group? Is there any point?
Well actually there is.
Benefits Of Forearms Training
Can help with grip strength:
Training forearms will help increase your grip strength which will in turn help you lift, carry and hold heavier loads. So you can add heavier loads to your bicep curls and tricep skull crushers.
Improve strength when lifting:
As mentioned above, you will be able to lift heavier loads as your forearms and grip will not fail you, one example being grip strength during a heavy deadlift.
Give your physique a more balanced look:
When you put on your extra small generation iron t-shirt, having symmetrically balanced and muscular forearms will give your physique a more well rounded look, and will make your arms look more swole.
Forearm exercises:
Below I have complied a selection of exercises that will help amp up your forearm routine.
Palms Up Wrist Curls
This can be performed with either dumbbells or a bar
Start by sitting on a flat bench with the bar or dumbbells in hand
Then with the palms supinated (facing upwards), place your forearms on your legs or on the edge of the bench
Allow the wrists to hang off slightly
Then curl your wrists upwards ensuring your feel the contraction
Then bring the weight back down
And repeat accordingly
Kettlebell Radial Deviation
You can do this sitting, standing or even laying down
Start by holding a kettlebell with a neutral grip (palms facing each other)
Elbows bent
Hold the kettlebell from handle end
Then curl or flex your wrists towards your body
Then lower the weight back down
And repeat accordingly
Kettlebell Ulnar Deviation
So this is the exact opposite to radial deviation
This is best performed when standing up
Again with a neutral grip, holding the kettlebell
Flex your wrists backwards (aim the pinky towards your elbows)
Then bring the weight back down
And repeat accordingly
Kettlebell Forearm Flips
This can be done laying down or on a bench
With a neutral grip holding the kettlebell from the handle
Slowly tip the cast iron bell side to the left, allowing it to gently touch the floor or bench
Then slowly tip it back to the right hand side
Ensure you are controlling the movement
This is a unilateral movement, so take time performing each arm with the right intensity
Farmers Carry
For this you will need a kettlebell (or dumbbell) for each hand
Hold the weight, stand up straight, chest up, keep the shoulders level on both sides and the core tight
Eyes looking ahead with head upright, slowly begin walking forward at an even pace
Complete a lap, or a set amount of steps then come to a stop
Take a brief rest and continue again
Trap Bar Carry
Similar to the farmers carry, this will be done using a trap bar
Simply load the trap bar with the desired weight
Deadlift the weight up
Stand upright keeping the core tight
Then slowly begin making you walk
And again, like the farmers walk, take a brief rest period and continue
Kettlebell Bottoms Up Carry
This is a fun one that involves a lot of core and technique to complete.
Grab a kettlebell and hold if from the handle end
Then (using one hand), hold it upside down so the weighted ball is at the top
The position of your arm should be that of a L shape, where the elbow is being and the head of the kettlebell is just above your head
Brace the core, keep it tight, keep your head up, and your eyes looking ahead of you
Similar to the farmers and trap bar carries, start walking in a straight line ahead of you
Use your other arm to ensure you stay balanced (make sure the other hand does not touch the kettlebell)
Reach your desired distance then switch hands and walk it back
Repeat as many steps/ walks as desired
Reverse Bicep Curls
Similar to a regular bicep curl, this will be done with the palms pronated (facing downwards)
Using either dumbbells or bar, complete the bicep curl ensuring full contraction
The forearm will be targeted as well as the biceps
Slowly lower back to the resting position
And repeat again accordingly
In Conclusion
You don’t need to dedicate a whole training session to this one muscle, but maybe try hitting it at the start of a chest, arm or even back day, so you are able to hit it with the necessary intensity, or even still, hit it multiple times in one training week.
Whatever you decide to do, just ensure you hit it with intensity and get the mind to muscle connection on point.
So until next time, keep pumping!
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
References
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK536975/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2254413/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4540837/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3831787/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20697896/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5385419/
Dianabol Results: With Before and After Pictures
Dianabol (methandrostenolone) is a bulking steroid, used by bodybuilders to significantly increase muscle hypertrophy and strength.
Dianabol is the most popular oral steroid, due to its potent effects on mass gain and Arnold Schwarzenegger popularising its use; with it believed to have sculpted his Mr. Olympia-winning physique of the 70s.
Dianabol is sometimes taken as a first steroid cycle, due to beginners wanting results thick and fast (literally). However, dianabol is perhaps more suitable for intermediate steroid-users, due to its adverse effects on cholesterol and liver enzymes.
For the best steroids for beginners: read this post.
Dianabol Results: Before and After Pictures
The above user took dianabol as his first steroid cycle, with his size gains being typical of what a beginner can expect when taking moderate dosages (15mg-20mg/day) for 5-6 weeks.
For intermediate users who have already taken anabolic steroids (such as testosterone), dianabol won’t produce as impressive results — with their body already being accustomed to past steroid-use. However, notable improvements in muscularity will still occur, with dianabol generally viewed as a more potent bulking compound compared to testosterone.
Arnold Schwarzenegger: Before and After Dianabol
Arnold’s dosage was speculated to be 15mg/day (1), based on Frank Zane’s training diary which detailed the typical amount golden era bodybuilders would take. Arnold’s transformation (above) demonstrates the long term results of using dianabol, in combination with steroids such as — deca durabolin and primobolan.
This isn’t to say that users can look like Arnold from simply taking dianabol, as you can see he had impressive muscularity even as a natural bodybuilder. Also Arnold’s training intensity and discipline when dieting was often unrivaled. However, the degree of improvement (not the end result) shown in the above photos can be experienced when taking dianabol for several years — if combined with hard work.
It is worth noting that Arnold and other classic bodybuilders were taking authentic, pharmaceutical graded methandrostenolone prescribed by a doctor. In contrast, taking 15mg/day of dianabol purchased from the black market, may only actually be 5mg/day; due to sellers commonly diluting the product.
Thus, 15mg/day would be seen as a low dosage today, however the golden era bodybuilders proved that with steroids — less is more.
Weight Gain
In terms of weight gain, dianabol will typically add 30lbs to beginners, with 10lbs being water and the majority being lean muscle tissue.
Such temporary water retention can cause bloating and a puffy look to the muscles, hence why dianabol is often utilized in the off-season; where user’s will typically be wearing ample clothing (compared to beach season).
Thus, when taking dianabol, the objective should primarily be to add mass, rather than optimizing for aesthetics.
Muscular Strength
Muscular strength will also reach new heights on dianabol, with users often adding 40-50lbs to compound exercises (such as: deadlift, squat, bench press). Users also retain these strength gains, should they continue lifting weights regularly post-cycle.
Fat Loss
Dianabol will reduce subcutaenous body fat, due to it essentially being exogenous testosterone (a potent fat burning hormone).
However, the degree of fat loss will be determined by a user’s eating habits. For example, those bulking generally will eat in a generous calorie surplus to assist muscle and strength results. This will contribute to some fat gain and thus blunt dianabol’s fat burning effect.
If user’s do not eat in a calorie surplus when taking dianabol; instead opting for maintenance calories — then they will experience simultaneous muscle gain and fat loss.
Note: Water retention can also obscure muscle definition and increase waist size (temporarily), thus users will typically appear leaner after coming off a dianabol cycle.
Although dianabol can decrease subcutaneous fat (that is visible externally); it can also increase visceral fat (that wraps around the organs). This occurs due to high estrogen levels causing insulin resistance, resulting in a more bloated or distended midsection.
However, visceral fat gains are unlikely to be observable in cautious dosages, hence how Arnold and other bodybuilders from the golden era were able to maintain tiny, vacuumed waists.
How to Maximize Results on Dianabol
A person’s results on dianabol will be determined by their training, eating habits and the cycle itself.
Thus, for best results, users should train regularly and more often than usual; as dianabol will greatly accelerate muscle recovery (reducing the risk of overtraining). This is why classic bodybuilders were able to train for several hours each day, without burning out.
Following a standard bodybuilding split of training each muscle group 1-2 x per week is the minimum requirement for significant muscle gains.
Eating ample calories is equally important to aid anabolism and protein synthesis, thus a small calorie surplus of 500 (or more) is often adopted on dianabol. A person may choose to eat maintenance calories, particularly if they are conscious of their body fat increasing.
Drinking alcohol should be avoided on dianabol, with it being hepatotoxic and thus increasing the chances of liver injury. When the liver is excessively strained, the body reduces hunger as a self defence mechanism, reducing the load on the organ (as it works to process food). In the incidence of acute liver damage, users will naturally consume less calories; negatively affecting their results when bulking on dianabol. TUDCA may also be used as a supplement to inhibit hepatic inflammation/damage.
Dianabol Stacks for Greater Results
For someone who has never taken dianabol before, it would be wise to run a dianabol-only cycle before stacking it with other steroids; so the body can become accustomed to dianabol first.
After taking dianabol by itself, it can later be stacked with testosterone or/and deca durabolin for greater results when bulking.
An additional 10lbs of mass can be gained when adding testosterone or deca durabolin to a dianabol cycle.
Testosterone and deca durabolin compliment dianabol well, as they do not increase hepatotoxicity, thus minimizing damage to the liver. Testosterone and deca also are injectable steroids and thus only have a mild effect on cholesterol, making them safer compounds for the heart (compared to other AAS). However, testosterone suppression will worsen by combining other anabolic steroids with dianabol, thus increasing damage to the HPTA axis and extending the duration of endogenous testosterone recovery.
Anadrol and trenbolone are less suitable stacking options, despite them having profound effects on muscle-building and strength. This is due to anadrol exacerbating hepatic and cardiac damage and trenbolone also causing the latter.