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Top 5 Steroids for Weight Loss (Fat Loss)
Disclaimer: The following article is for educational purposes only and NOT to promote the use of illegal steroids. If you have any questions or concerns, Dr. Touliatos is currently available for consultations.
Anabolic steroids are often associated with gaining exceptional amounts of muscle hypertrophy and strength, which is medically what they were designed for — treating patients with cachexia (muscle wasting conditions).
Although anabolic steroids’ sole purpose is to promote weight gain, researchers have found that increases in muscle mass, are often accompanied with simultaneous fat loss (1).
Also researchers have found that certain steroids are better than others for burning fat, which is why bodybuilders cycle similar compounds when cutting, in an attempt to accelerate lipolysis (fat loss) and increase muscle definition.
It is somewhat deceptive to say the following compounds listed in this article are the best steroids for weight loss, because although they will enhance fat burning, they also simultaneously add lean muscle tissue — ultimately causing weight gain.
Thus, the scales may not reflect dramatic weight loss, but the mirror will.
A more accurate description of the AAS below, are: the best steroids for fat loss (not weight loss).
5 Best Steroids for Fat Loss
1. Anavar
Anavar not only causes weight loss in terms of lipolysis (fat loss), but it also has diuretic qualities — flushing out extracellular water.
Thus, users will not only become leaner and more toned on anavar, but they will also achieve a smaller waist and relieve any bloating.
The scales may not be the best measuring apparatus for monitoring fat loss on anavar, as this steroid simultaneously produces moderate lean muscle gains.
All anabolic steroids will have some fat burning properties because they are all forms of exogenous testosterone.
Bodybuilders typically have less subcutaneous fat, but higher visceral fat after taking steroids. This increase in visceral fat (surrounding the internal organs) is caused by insulin resistance via estrogen dominance (commonly caused by steroids that aromatize).
However, one unique trait about anavar is that it doesn’t aromatize into estrogen or directly affect estrogen receptors. Thus, not only does anavar reduce subcutaneous fat mass, but also visceral fat. Therefore, your stomach will become more defined and smaller.
In contrast, bodybuilders who take estrogenic steroids, can end up having more toned abs (due to less subcutaneous fat), whilst possessing a more bloated/distended stomach (increase in visceral fat).
Another reason why anavar is arguably the best steroid for weight loss (fat loss), is due to its safety profile. Anavar is a FDA approved drug in medicine, used to treat cachexia (2), and is often well tolerated by women and children.
Thus, due to anavar’s low toxicity, many users do not experience any obvious side effects when taking this compound. However, if abused with excessive dosages or overextended cycles, dangerous side effects can occur.
Anavar is also one of the few steroids women can take to safely burn fat and increase muscle tone, with it seldom causing virilization effects (when taken in conservative dosages).
Anavar Cycle for Men
Anavar Cycle for Women
Here are some before/after pictures, demonstrating potential fat loss from an anavar cycle:
Note how the woman above didn’t actually lose any weight (+2kg), yet she experienced dramatic fat loss.
2. Winstrol
Winstrol (Stanozolol) is a similar anabolic steroid to anavar, in regards to both of them being DHT derivatives and having potent fat burning and lean mass building properties.
If we were ranking the best steroids for weight loss (or ‘fat loss’), winstrol would likely take top spot. However, it comes behind anavar on our list simply because it has more toxic side effects.
Bodybuilders often cycle winstrol during cutting phases, to get as lean and ripped as possible; maximizing muscle definition.
Winstrol not only burn a little more fat than anavar, but it will also flush out more water. This may be a bonus for those looking to get as lean as possible; but a possible disadvantage to bodybuilders as they are likely to lose some intracellular muscle fullness.
Like anavar, winstrol does not aromatize and thus it burns both subcutaneous and visceral fat stores.
Winstrol however is going to cause significant fluctuations in LDL/HDL cholesterol levels, increasing the risk of arteriosclerosis and heart disease. It also is a c-17 alpha alkylated oral compound, causing notable elevations in AST/ALT liver enzymes; indicating significant hepatic stress.
Winstrol will also cause testosterone levels to shut down, due to damage to the HPTA axis. Users often experience their natural testosterone levels returning several months after taken winstrol (assuming they don’t take any other anabolic substances following post winstrol cessation).
Winstrol is not female friendly, unlike anavar, being the culprit for many cases of virilization on the fitness scene. If you want to avoid masculinization, anavar is a better choice for women. The only exception would be if females took very small doses of winstrol and utilized short cycles, in which case women are likely to retain their femininity.
Winstrol Cycle for Men
Winstrol Cycle for Women
3. Turinabol
Turinabol is a dianabol derivative, which may surprise some considering dianabol is mainly used as a mass-building, bulking agent.
Turinabol is a ‘dry’ anabolic steroid, whereas dianabol is a ‘wet’ compound. This is due to turinabol failing to aromatize, resulting in lean and dry muscle gains; whereas dianabol can cause water retention and bloating.
Turinabol also does not pose any risk in terms of gynecomastia, making it a very effective and coveted anabolic steroid that can be successfully utilized during bulking or cutting cycles.
Turinabol users will build moderate amounts of muscle and burn noticeable amounts of fat, similar to the potency of winstrol; but with more muscle fullness.
Turinabol is arguably the best steroid for weight loss (fat loss), if users are planning on incorporating regular cardio into their training split.
This is because it is among the best AAS for muscular endurance, thus cardiovascular performance will vastly improve due to a notable increase in red blood cell production.
The actual purpose of Turinabol’s creation was to improve endurance, specifically in German swimming athletes. German scientists had previously observed dianabol increasing muscular strength and power, but at a cost of excessive weight gain.
Thus, they created a compound virtually identical to dianabol, with the exception of an extra 4-chloro alteration of clostebol. This meant that athletes could carry less weight, yet experience superior athletic performance.
Therefore, if someone were to combine anabolic steroids with regular cardio or HIIT (high intensity interval training), turinabol may indirectly help them burn more fat, by increasing the intensity and duration of workouts. Calorie expenditure is also likely to increase.
Turinabol is a milder steroid in terms of side effects, presenting less toxicity to the liver and heart than winstrol. Female athletes wanting to avoid masculinization may be safer taking turinabol than other AAS, as women frequently took tbol furing the 60s and 80s.
However, virilization cases did sporadically appear especially when female athletes started combining turinabol with other anabolic steroids, such as testosterone and deca durabolin. Thus, despite some promise, until more research is completed on the virilization effects of turinabol in an isolated environment, it may be wise for women to opt for anavar (a more thoroughly researched compound in medicine for almost six decades).
Turinabol Cycle for Men
Turinabol Cycle for Women
4. Trenbolone
If we ignore side effects completely, trenbolone is perhaps the best steroid for fat loss (subcutaneous), and superior than all other anabolic steroids on the market.
Trenbolone has exceptional muscle building and fat burning effects, making it a powerful bulking or cutting steroid. Its impressive fat burning capabilities can be attributed to its strong androgenic nature; with androgen receptors shown to stimulate lipolysis in adipose tissue (3). This occurs due to an increase in beta-adrenoceptors and adenylate cyclase activity.
Trenbolone also does not aromatize, keeping estrogen levels low and thus ensuring additional weight loss, in the form of water.
The reason that trenbolone ranks low on our list of: top 5 steroids for weight loss (fat loss), is due to it producing harsh side effects and increasing progesterone.
Trenbolone causes significant surges in LDL cholesterol, posing serious cardiovascular risks to users; dramatically increasing the chance of developing hypertension.
Trenbolone also causes notable testosterone suppression, due to damage of the HTPA axis. Consequently, men can experience several months of low testosterone symptoms, such as: decreased well-being, libido, energy and erectile quality.
Trenbolone also has the potential to greatly increase male pattern baldness, via sharp elevations in DHT (dihydrotestosterone).
Unfortunately, tren can actually increase visceral fat, often caused by female sex hormones rising, commonly being estrogen. Although there is no notable aromatization, or estrogen activity with trenbolone, progesterone mimics the same fat-storing effects — which trenbolone does raise.
Thus, users are likely to experience a significant reduction in subcutaneous fat, at the expense of an increase in visceral fat (causing a leaner, yet more bloated appearance to the midsection).
Trenbolone is not suitable for women to take, if they want to avoid masculinization.
Trenbolone Cycle for Men
Note: Weight loss (fat loss) will occur faster when taking trenbolone acetate. This is a short ester and thus it peaks in users’ system sooner than taking a longer trenbolone ester (enanthate).
5. Testosterone
Testosterone is an FDA approved injectable anabolic steroid, often prescribed in medicine for endogenous testosterone deficiency.
Bodybuilders have been using testosterone since it came to the market almost a century ago, assisting in building large amounts of muscle and strength. However, testosterone’s fat burning effects are often underrated, with it being a potent compound for reducing subcutaneous fat mass.
Its ability to burn fat surpasses many other anabolic steroids, due to its high androgenicity (similar to trenbolone).
However, testosterone does aromatize and thus weight gain in the form of water is common and may lead to temporarily reduced muscle definition and bloating (especially in individuals following a moderate to high sodium diet).
Testosterone’s estrogenic effects may cause visceral fat storage, which although this type of fat is invisible (hidden internally around the organs) — it can cause a distended look to the waistline.
However, testosterone makes takes the last spot on our top steroids for weight loss (fat loss) list, due to its impressive safety profile. No anabolic steroid is 100% safe, especially when bought via an underground lab and taken without expert medical supervision. However, testosterone is an FDA approved medicine and thus it has proven to be safe when taken in the correct dosages when treating hormone imbalances of cachexic states. However, testosterone remains illegal for recreational use.
Testosterone causes only mild fluctuations in cholesterol when taken in moderate dosages and poses little hepatic toxicity. Thus, it is of the most cardiovascular-friendly anabolic steroids available.
Its various esters come in injectable form, which may not ideal for some users. The only exception to this is testosterone undecanoate, an oral form of testosterone, otherwise known as TestoCaps. However, TestoCaps’ retail price is very expensive and a fraction of the price of injectable testosterone esters, such as cypionate and enanthate.
Testosterone is not suitable for women to take due to its strong androgenic rating, which may accelerate male pattern baldness in men, as well as oily skin/acne vulgaris.
Testosterone Cycle for Men
Dosages can increase up to 500mg/day, with cycles extending to 12 weeks, based on a user’s level of experience. Although higher dosages will increase fat loss, they also increase risk and the severity of side effects.
Here is a before/after photo, demonstrating the typical fat burning effects of testosterone from a first cycle.
Summary
There are no ‘best steroids for weight loss’, as all AAS will cause weight gain. However, the above compounds are the best steroids for fat loss.
In terms of safety and suitability for both men and women, anavar can be regarded as the best steroid for fat loss; due to its mild effect on cholesterol, liver, testosterone suppression and low incidents of virilization.
If users are more willing to risk their health and are unable to afford anavar’s high market price, they may opt for winstrol (a more powerful fat burner). However, females should take a very low dosage of winstrol to avoid virilization, as outlined.
All of the anabolic steroids listed above will cause significant muscle gain, which can assist in improving body composition. Additional muscle mass will also help to elevate a person’s metabolic rate, indirectly helping them to burn more fat.
Muscle gain occurring alongside fat loss is advantageous, as rapid/excessive weight loss through dieting can result in sagging (due to muscle loss). Having adequate levels of muscle mass will help to give a lift to the muscles, decreasing the impact of gravity over time; whilst also increasing muscle tone.
To maximize fat loss/weight loss, users should eat in a calorie deficit (-500/day), which will maximize fat burning and muscle retention. Calorie deficits greater than this (starvation diets) can lead to water storage and muscle loss.
What To Take For Post-Workout Supplements To Optimize Gains
The time after your workout is great for boosting gains by optimizing growth and recovery and these post-workout supplements are perfect for achieving that.
You love gains. We know it and don’t be afraid to admit it. You just love gains. But so do other people, so you definitely aren’t alone. But finding the right supplements and approach to maximizing those gains can be challenging and can often times lead us down the wrong road, something we definitely don’t want or need. The right post-workout supplements can put us on track to seeing those gains we want most without any added nonsense to interfere. And that is what we want and need.
Let’s jump into some great post-workout supplements to see what you can do to maximize growth and recovery. The right supplements paired with a great diet and solid training routine can greatly affect your gains. With reputable companies working on your behalf with clean ingredients and transparent labels, you can be sure to only get the best when it comes to your supplementation routine as you seek the best for those gains.
Why Post-Workout Supplements Matter
Post-workout supplements matter because the time after your workout is exactly when you need to pump yourself with vital nutrients to maximize growth and recovery. Your muscles and body are depleted after a grueling workout and finding the right nutrients to then replenish your body can prove to be very effective in the long run. Post-workout supplements are exactly what you need to capitalize on all these gains so you see the growth you want most and the recovery you need most for efficient repair. While other supplements like pre-workouts and multivitamins are essential, your post-workout routine should be on par with your training so you never sacrifice your hard work in the gym.`
Top Post-Workout Supplements To Boost Gains
For those post-workout gains, it is important to optimize growth and recovery as best you cans so you don’t sacrifice any of that hard work you worked hard for in the gym. The right supplements pair with a solid diet and quality training plan can greatly affect your gains and give you a lifestyle you want most. It can be hard to find the right supplements but it is not impossible. The best products can greatly influence your gains and give you the best chance at seeing the results you want most.
Protein Powders
Protein powders are perfect for boosting growth and recovery by pumping you with plenty of protein as well as added ingredients to give your body everything it needs. Whether this be a plant-based protein or the more common form in whey, protein powders can work to increase muscle growth (1), aid in recovery to help against muscle soreness and damage and promote fullness and weight management for all your needs.
A great protein powder like Performance Lab SPORT Protein can work wonders for you and while this is a plant-based protein, others that are sourced from whey can be game changers. Packed with protein and other vital nutrients, this powder is one to absolutely have on your shelf.
Performance Lab SPORT Protein is an impressive brown rice protein source that is cleaner than most other protein powders. Great for muscle growth, recovery, and weight loss, this is absolutely a top protein supplement.
Check out our list of the Best Protein Powders for more great protein supplements!
Creatine
Creatine is an amino acid found in your muscles and works to improve performance, increase strength and size, and avoid muscle breakdown (2). With many different types, including creatine monohydrate, creatine HCL, and creatine anhydrous you get a safe supplement to boost gains and even help with recovery to bounce back faster.
A great creatine supplement like Transparent Labs StrengthSeries Creatine HMB is awesome to take and the added β-Hydroxy β-Methylbutyrate (HMB) works to increase muscle strength and decrease fat mass for that shredded physique.
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Transparent Labs Creatine HMB is clean and effective for tackling all of your strength building needs. With no artificial additives or preservatives, what you get is pure creatine with added HMB for better strength.
Check out our list of the Best Creatine for more great creatine products!
Mass Gainers
For those who really want to pack on strength and size, as well as serious mass, a mass gainer is something to heavily consider. Powerlifters and bodybuilders alike can greatly benefit from a mass gainer which is packed with macronutrients to fuel workouts, increase muscle growth, enhance recovery, and give you a massive physique for both aesthetic and performance. Often times these include digestive enzymes for better absorption and no stomach discomfort.
A solid mass gainer like Transparent Labs ProteinSeries Mass Gainer is great for packing on healthy weight and designed to boost your overall athletic performance with high-quality ingredients. For those looking to seriously boost strength and size, as well as overall mass, this is a great mass gaining product.
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Transparent Labs ProteinSeries Mass Gainer is great for packing on muscle and healthy weight. Perfect as a meal replacement or a mass gaining supplement, this product is pumped with protein and no added artificial substances.
Check out our list of the Best Mass Gainers for more muscle building supplements!
BCAAs
Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) are great for kickstarting muscle protein synthesis and with the help of essential amino acids (EAAs) can greatly influence growth and aid in performance. By working on increasing muscle size (3), decreasing soreness, reducing fatigue, and preventing muscle wasting, BCAAs can be taken as an intra-workout supplement or for that post-workout routine so you can capitalize on all your gains.
An awesome BCAA supplement like Kaged Muscle In-Kaged will keep you going for longer and can assist with all your strength goals. Solid ingredients have a great effect on performance and your overall health and greatly influence those post-workout gains you want most.
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Kaged Muscle In-Kaged is a great intra-workout product for endurance, energy, and muscle pumps. Nine ingredients and a 2:1:1 ratio assist with all your strength goals.
Check out our list of the Best BCAAs for more great intra-workout and post-workout BCAA products!
Wrap Up
The right post-workout supplements can greatly affect your gains and give you everything you need to fully succeed when it comes to your post-workout routine. With the right products that are safe and effective, you can greatly influence your growth so you see the gains you want most and a physique you can be proud of. While finding the right supplements can be challenging, it is possible and you can seriously benefit from only the best. Check out some great post-workout supplements today and see what these can do for your 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
Pasiakos, S.; McLellan, T.; Lieberman, H. (2015). “The effects of protein supplements on muscle mass, strength, and aerobic and anaerobic power in healthy adults: a systematic review”. (source)
Kreider, R. (2003). “Effects of creatine supplementation on performance and training adaptations”. (source)
Blomstrand, E.; Eliasson, J.; Karlsson, H.; Kohnke, R. (2006). “Branched-chain amino acids activate key enzymes in protein synthesis after physical exercise”. (source)
Mr. Olympia 2021: List Of Qualified Competitors And Point Standings
Here is an updated list of qualified athletes for Mr. Olympia 2021 along with post standings.
The summer is winding down and Mr. Olympia 2021 is right around the corner. It will take place from Oct. 7-10 in Orlando. This is where the best competitors in the world will gather to see who will take home victories at the biggest event of the year.
There have been qualifiers each weekend and that will continue up until the deadline of Sept. 12. Athletes have up until this day to get into the Olympia. There is one exception and that is the Arnold Classic. On Sept. 25 in Columbus, the Men’s Open champion will earn an automatic qualification.
Mamdouh Elssbiay took home the Olympia victory in 2020 while the 2019 Brandon Curry finished second. The top five finishers from the 2020 Olympia have already qualified for this year’s competition. This is just one way to earn an automatic qualifier. Athletes can also qualify by winning an IFBB pro contest or finishing in the top three of the point standings.
Below, you can find the updated list of competitors who have qualified and will look to dethrone Elssbiay this year.
Mr. Olympia 2021 Qualified Athletes and Point Standings
Mr. Olympia
James Hollingshead (UK)
Regan Grimes (Canada)
Mamdouh Elssbiay (Egypt)
Brandon Curry (USA)
Phil Heath (USA)
Hadi Choopan (Iran)
William Bonac (Netherlands)
Justin Rodriguez (USA)
Nicholas Walker (USA)
Patrick Moore (USA)
Akim Williams (USA)
Andrea Presti (Italy)
Hunter Labrada (USA)
Iain Valliere (Canada)
Nathan De Asha (UK)
Roelly Winklaar (Curacao)
POINTS: (top 3 qualify)
Mohamed Shaaban (Egypt), 19
Hassan Mostafa (Egypt), 16
Vladyslav Sukhoruchko (Ukraine), 16
Mokhamed El Emam (Russia), 15
Tim Budesheim (Germany), 13
Maxx Charles (USA), 11
Phillip Clahar (USA), 11
Theo Leguerrier (France), 9
Dorian Haywood (USA), 8
Charles Griffen (USA), 7
Brett Wilkin (USA), 6
William Martins (Brazil), 5
Steve Kuclo (USA), 4
Marc Hector (UK), 3
Blessing Awodibu (Ireland), 3
Lionel Beyeke (France), 3
Andrea Muzi (Italy), 3
Jamie Christian-Johal (UK), 2
Martin Fitzwater (USA), 2
Carlos Chapa (USA), 1
Eddie Bracamontes (USA), 1
212 Olympia
Angel Calderon Frias (Spain)
Shaun Clarida (USA)
Kamal Elgargni (Libya)
George Peterson (USA)
Derek Lunsford (USA)
Ahmad Ashkanani (Kuwait)
Tonio Burton (USA)
Nathan Epler (USA)
Piotr Borecki (Poland)
Lucas Coelho (Brazil)
Keone Pearson (USA)
Noel Adame (USA)
Kerrith Bajjo (USA)
Ahmed Elsadany (Egypt)
Vladimir Iakolev (Moldova)
Pasquale D’Angelo (Italy)
POINTS (top 3 qualify)
John Jewett (USA), 21
Steve Benthin (Germany), 15
Naser Mohammad (Kuwait), 13
Radoslav Angelov (Bulgaria), 10
Estaban Alejandro Fuquene Bravo (Colombia), 9
Dectric Lewis (USA), 7
Dan Cirstea (Spain), 7
Derik Oslan (USA), 6
Gaetano Cisternino, Jr (USA), 6
Justin Randall (USA), 5
Boas Henrique Oliveira (Brazil), 5
Fabrizio de Souza Moreira (Brazil), 5
Zoran Kolevski (Madedonia), 4
Milton Martinez (USA), 4
Andrey Melnikov (Russia), 4
Austin Karr (USA), 4
Diogo Nunes (Portugal), 3
Oswaldo Gonzalez (USA), 3
Lionardis Cardoza (Mexico), 3
Martin Gomez (USA), 3
James Llewellin (UK), 2
Bryan Balzano (USA), 2
Victor Eric Lopez Garcia (Mexico), 2
Jason Herbert (USA), 2
Paul Latham (UK), 1
Christyan Gomez (Honduras), 1
Charles Curtis (USA), 1
Classic Physique Olympia
Laszlo Kiraly (Hungary)
Peter Molnar (Hungary)
Courage Opara (USA)
Chris Bumstead (Canada)
Terrence Ruffin (USA)
Breon Ansley (USA)
Alex Cambronero (Costa Rica)
Bryan Jones (USA)
Divine Wilson (USA)
Dani Younan (USA)
George Kawalawu (USA)
Zeek Andrews (USA)
Tony Taveras (USA)
Gabriel Zancanelli Machado (Brazil)
Brady King (USA)
Mike Sommerfeld (Germany)
Jose Maria Mete Bueriberi (Spain)
Darwin Andres Uribe (Colombia)
Seonghwan Kim (South Korea)
Urs Kalecinski (Germany)
Robert Timms (USA)
Fabian Mayr (Austria)
Ramon Rocha Querioz (Brazil)
POINTS (top 5 qualify)
Sabur Favors (USA), 17
Tommy Clark (USA), 14
Neil Currey (UK), 13
German Pastor (Spain), 12
Vahid Badpei (Iran), 11
Christopher Hunte (USA), 10
Mohamed Amine Fakhfakh (Tunisia), 10
Steve Laureus (USA), 9
Brandon Kidd (USA), 8
Dimitrii Vorotyntsev (Russia), 7
Marcus Perry (USA), 7
Marco Ruz (France), 6
Giuseppe Christian Zagarella (Italy), 6
Mattie Nelms (USA), 6
Ashwin Lucas (USA), 6
Mikhail Timoshin (Russia), 5
Traveon Daniels (USA), 5
Wesley Vissers (Netherlands), 5
Carlos Dommar (USA), 5
LeLand Devaughn, Jr (USA), 4
Lamar Shaw (USA) 4
Kevin Wilson (USA), 4
Alex dos Anjos (Brazil), 4
Jihoon Bang (South Korea), 4
Logan Franklin (USA), 4
Michael Daboul (UK), 3
Roman Khaliulin (Russia), 3
Jonathan Pelkey (USA), 3
Michael Bell (USA), 3
Harold Bright, Jr (USA), 3
Julio Cesar Balestrin de Freitas (Brazil), 3
Maurice Burgess (USA), 3
Jaewan Park (South Korea), 3
Shane Cullen (Ireland), 2
Jarek Crew (USA), 2
Arturo Mendez (USA), 2
Jorge Luis Guerrero Gallegos (Mexico), 2
Jaehun Park (South Korea), 2
Brandon Williams (USA), 2
Jonathan Lofthouse (UK), 1
Tomas Adame-Hernandez (USA), 1
Omar Bautista (USA), 1
Joseph Wahlberg (USA), 1
Jared Feather (USA), 1
Tom Connelly (USA), 1
Myeongho Park (South Korea), 1
Men’s Physique Olympia
Abisai Pietersz (Netherlands)
Riccardo Croci (Italy)
Carlos DeOliveira (Brazil)
Brandon Hendrickson (USA)
Raymont Edmonds (USA)
Khali Quartey (USA)
Antoine McNeill (USA)
Corey Morris (USA)
Kyron Holden (USA)
Erin Banks (USA)
Micah Thomas, Jr (USA)
Arya Saffaie (USA)
Rodrigue Chesnier (France)
Jahvair Mullings (USA)
Daniel Ammons (USA)
Suraqah Shabazz (USA)
Charjo Grant (USA)
Diogo Montenegro (Brazil)
Ramses Rams (Spain)
Clarence McSpadden, Jr (USA)
Andrei Marius Lincan (Romania)
Felipe Franco (Brazil)
Bong Seok Choi (South Korea)
Andre Ferguson (USA)
Jason Huynh (USA)
Joseph Lee (USA)
Youcef Djoudi (France)
Leonardo Vecchiato (Italy)
POINTS (top 5 qualify)
Luca Biolo (Italy), 19
John Sarmiento (USA), 17
George Brown (USA), 15
Ismael Dominguez (Mexico), 14
Nick Koeu (USA), 14
Ashley Lamont Patillo (USA), 12
Jeremy Potvin (USA), 10
Thomas Kunz (Switzerland), 8
Brett Mario Jackson (USA), 8
Emanual Hunter (USA), 7
Myron Griffin (USA), 7
Reuben Glass (USA), 6
Mehdi Kabbadj (USA), 6
Antoine Weatherspoon (USA), 6
Edvan Palmeira (Brazil), 6
Mike Stripling (USA), 5
Anthony Gilkes (USA), 5
Adrian Horton (USA), 5
Pedro Lima (Brazil), 5
Bumsu Park (South Korea), 5
Wellington Rodriguez (Brazil), 4
Ahmed Abdelgalil (Egypt), 4
Evan Kanu (USA), 4
Matthew Greggo (USA), 4
Daniel Stull (USA), 4
Steven Cao (USA), 4
Elton Mota (Portugal), 4
Tre Trotter (USA), 4
Yujin Lee (South Korea), 4
Anthony Chinakwe (USA), 4
Andrea Mosti (Italy), 3
Vinicius Viera Lima (Brazil), 3
Antonio Smothers (USA), 3
Zach Savoie (USA), 3
Michael Mperey (USA), 3
Saint Michael Anthony Moodie (USA), 3
Stevelon Dennis (USA), 3
Brandon Warren (USA), 3
Wooyoung Seo (South Korea), 3
Mark Robinson (USA), 3
Philippe Degila (France), 3
Maxime Parisi (France), 2
Denis Gusev (Russia), 2
Marcel Treichler (Switzerland), 2
Alex Newell (USA), 2
Antoine Williams (USA), 2
Jonathan Jimenez (USA), 2
Bryan Blackman (USA), 2
Alessandro Cavagnola (Italy), 2
Gerardo Gabriel (USA), 2
Junghyeon Jo (South Korea), 2
Aroldson Etienne (USA), 2
Frank Worley (USA), 2
Ms. Olympia
Virginia Sanchez (Spain)
Andrea Shaw (USA)
Margie Martin (USA)
Helle Trevino (USA)
MayLa Ash (USA)
Irene Anderson (Sweden)
Leah Dennie (USA)
Nadia Capostosto (Italy)
Michaela Aycock (USA)
LaDawn McDay (USA)
Anastasia Leonova (Russia)
Sheena Ohlig (USA)
Mona Poursaleh (Canada)
Margita Zamolova (Czech Republic)
Silvia Matta (Italy)
POINTS (top 3 qualify)
Janeen Lankowski (USA), 11
Stephanie Flesher (USA), 10
Monique Jones (USA), 9
Aleesha Young (USA), 8
Hunter Henderson (USA), 8
Tamara Makar (UK), 7
Corinne Ingman (UK), 7
Monica Gioiosa (Italy), 6
Anne Sheehan (USA), 6
Kristina Mendoza (USA), 6
Julia Fory (Germany), 6
Alcione Sanots (Brazil), 6
Wendy Sanchez (USA), 5
Heather Grace (USA), 5
Vera Mikulcova (Czech Republic), 5
Felicia Spatarescu (Spain), 5
Stacey Nunez (USA), 4
Jessica Martin (USA), 4
Hulda Lopez (Honduras), 4
Vanesa Lloria (Spain), 4
Akemy Jones (USA), 4
Anastasia Korableva (Russia), 3
Susanna Jacobs (USA), 3
Nicki Chartrand (USA), 3
Traci Rugged (USA), 3
Keisha Oliver (USA), 2
Gabriela Pena de la Vega (USA), 2
Women’s Physique Olympia
Lenka Ferencukova (Czech Republic)
Caroline Alves Dos Santos (Brazil)
Emily Renee Schubert (USA)
Melissa Teich (USA)
Sarah Villegas (USA)
Shanique Grant (USA)
Natalia Abraham Coelho (USA)
Barbara Menage (France)
Ivie Rhein (USA)
Carli Terepka (USA)
Alyssa Kiessling (USA)
Ana Harias (USA)
Tanya Chartrand (Canada)
Christelle Zarovska (Sint Maarten)
Daniely Castilho (Brazil)
Patricia Gosselin (Canada)
Brooke Walker (USA)
Ashley Jones (USA)
Anne-Lorraine Mohn (France)
Penpraghai Tiangngok (Thailand)
POINTS (top 3 qualify)
Elizabeth Bradshaw (USA), 23
Elisama Manuel Benta Zorzetta (Brazil), 11
Laura Pintado Chinchilla (Spain), 11
Sheronican Henton (USA), 8
Modesta Halby (Denmark), 8
Jeannie Feldman (USA), 8
Yuna Kim (South Korea), 7
Sheena Washington (USA), 7
Oana Marinescu (Spain), 6
Patricia Vezirian (USA), 6
Julia Whitesel (USA), 6
Christina Bryant (USA), 6
Elena Aviles Romero (Spain), 6
Claudia Arroyo (USA), 5
Brittany Watts (USA), 5
Raluca Raducu (Romania), 5
Corinne Ingman (UK), 4
Jeanette Johanson (Sweden), 4
Candice Willmore (USA), 4
Amanda Machado (USA), 4
Chelsey Worster (USA), 4
Priscila Reis (Brazil), 3
Jennifer Faccinto (USA), 3
Ann Gruber (USA), 3
Kimberly Rieck (USA), 3
Acione da Silva dos Santos (Brazil), 3
Katherine Hall (USA), 3
Tomefafa Ameko (USA), 3
Jeannea Burritt (USA), 2
Claudia Diaz (USA), 2
Lorraine Gonzalez (USA), 2
Amy Ramsel (USA), 2
Winsome White (USA), 2
Pamela Canfield (USA), 2
Bian Ruiying (China), 1
Teresa Brooks (USA), 1
Laura Richards (USA), 1
Victoria Flores (USA), 1
Katherine McLaurin (USA), 1
Priscila Cavilha (USA), 1
Wellness Olympia
Francielle Mattos (Brazil)
Angela Borges (Brazil)
Gisele Machado (Brazil)
Maria Paulette (Spain)
Yarishna Ayala (USA)
Isabelle Nunes (Brazil)
Sunny Andrews (USA)
Casey Delong (USA)
Lorena Ragusa (USA)
Juliana Mota Esteso (France)
Isamara dos Santos (Brazil)
Kassandra Gillis (Canada)
Bruna Seredich (USA)
Renee Jewett (USA)
Devyn Cambre (USA)
Barbara Emanuele Cesar (USA)
Tatiany Valliant (Brazil)
Julia Chitarra (Brazil)
Susana Mendez Monteiro (Brazil)
POINTS (top 3 qualify)
Mallory Myers (USA) 11
Charline Mas (France), 11
Renee Harshey (USA), 9
Lisa Christin Meiswinkel (Germany), 9
Amanda Rezende (Brazil), 8
Devoné Martin (USA), 7
Kenea Yancy (USA), 6
Helena Ordonez (Spain), 5
Marcela Mattos (Brazil), 5
Anna Mroczkowska (Poland), 5
Minna Pajulahti (Finland), 4
Daisha Johnson (USA), 4
Susana Rodriguez (Brazil), 3
Dani Balbino (Brazil), 2
Crystal Hayes (USA), 2
Figure Olympia
Wendy Fortino (USA)
Julia Heerenveen (Netherlands)
Carly Starling-Horrell (USA)
Cydney Gillon (USA)
Natalia Soltero (Mexico)
Nadia Wyatt (USA)
Nicole Zenobia Graham (USA)
Latorya Watts (USA)
Bojana Vasiljevic (USA)
Maria Luisa Baeza Diaz (USA)
Jessica Reyes Padilla (Puerto Rico)
Lola Montez (Canada)
Rhea Gayle (UK)
Julia Waring (USA)
Michele Silva Pinto (Brazil)
Larhannah Robinson (USA)
Anna Banks (Poland)
Bahar Arya (Germany)
POINTS (top 3 qualify)
Shelace Shoemaker (USA), 15
Latoyia Farley (USA), 12
Heather Dees (USA), 12
Lena Ramsteiner (Germany), 12
Sandra Grajales (Mexico), 11
Jennifer Zienert (Germany), 10
Ivana Ivusic (USA), 9
Christine Stearns (USA), 8
Jossie Alarcon (Mexico), 8
Desiree Alferes (USA), 7
Melissa Brodsky (USA), 7
Gabriela Linhartova (Czech Republic), 7
Jessica Huete (USA), 6
Mayra Yudith Rocha Hernandez (Mexico), 6
Julia DiPompeo (USA), 6
Michele Pinto (Brazil), 5
Veronica Gallego (Spain), 4
Kristen McGregor (Jamaica), 4
Oyku Baser (Turkey), 4
Karina Grau (Paraguay), 4
Rachel Shoemake (USA), 3
Autumn Cleveland (USA), 3
Shanice Abrams (USA), 3
Jacquelyn Hurry (USA) 3
Anita Davis (USA), 3
Danielle Rose (USA), 3
Catherine Lavoie (Canada), 2
Queren Pacheco (Mexico), 2
Julia Champlin (USA), 2
Rachel Cucchia (Switzerland), 2
Rori Ross (USA), 1
Jill Braxmeyer (USA), 1
Rita Villarreal (USA), 1
Donya Jackson (USA), 1
Kim Clark (USA), 1
Fitness Olympia
Aurika Tyrgale (USA)
Missy Truscott (USA)
Oksana Grishina (Russia)
Whitney Jones (USA)
Ariel Khadr (USA)
Jaclyn Baker (USA)
Derina Wilson (USA)
Minna Pajulahti (Finland)
Sara Kovach (USA)
Alix Small (UK)
POINTS (top 3 qualify)
Tamara Vahn (Canada), 19
Debbie Fowler (USA), 15
Kate Errington (UK), 13
Corrine Bean (USA), 10
Stacy Dawn (USA), 7
Layla Mikayla (USA), 6
Marta Aguiar (Uruguay), 6
Stephanie Jones (USA), 6
Rene Brosch (USA), 5
Anna Chism (USA), 5
Allison Kramer (USA), 5
Sally Kendall-Williams (USA), 4
Michelle Gales (USA), 4
Jobie Goodro (USA), 3
Alison Burns (USA), 3
Missy Khasawneh (USA), 2
Bikini Olympia
Stine Hansen (Denmark)
Lucia Malavaze (USA)
Jourdanne Lee (USA)
Francesca Stoico (Italy)
Emily Plajer (USA)
Angelica Teixeira (USA)
Jennifer Ronzitti (USA)
Janet Layug (USA)
Ashley Kaltwasser (USA)
Elisa Pecini (Brazil)
Melissa Carver (Australia)
Lauren Dannenmiller (USA)
Ashlyn Little (USA)
Gabrielle Messias (USA)
Romina Basualdo (USA)
Alessia Facchin (Italy)
Chen Qi Liu (China)
Sara Choi (South Korea)
Eli Fernandez (Mexico)
Jimi Marley (USA)
Maria Julia Lemos (Brazil)
Jessica Wilson (USA)
Ariel Barley (USA)
Daraja Hill (USA)
Kristina Brunauer (Austria)
Lauralie Chapados (USA)
Maureen Blanquisco (USA)
Jasmine Gonzalez (USA)
Erin Stern (USA)
Allison Testu (France)
Noora Mahonen (Finland)
POINTS (top 5 qualify)
Carolina Collazos (USA), 18
Sierra Swann (USA), 16
Jennifer Dorie (Canada), 16
Ivanna Escandar Fernandez (Spain), 16
Vania Auguste (USA), 14
Reijuana Harley (USA), 13
Shelby Pierce (USA), 12
Anya Nicholson (USA), 12
Etila Santiago Santos (Brazil), 11
Cristobalina Pajares (Spain), 10
Carla Garthwaite (USA), 10
Haley Houdyshell (USA), 10
Hannah Ranfranz (USA), 9
Ottavia Mazza (Italy), 9
Svetlana Elina (Russia), 8
Eszter Oczella (Hungary), 8
Cory Hageman (USA), 7
Jessica Dolias (USA), 7
Adrianna Kaczmarek (Poland), 6
Phoebe Hagan (UK), 5
Chloe Margraitner (Switzerland), 5
Aleksandra Banda (Australia), 5
Song Reum (South Korea), 5
Brittany Ann (USA), 5
Anastasia Gonzalez Andreu (Spain), 5
Breena Martinez (USA), 5
Jessica Johnson (Australia), 4
Alyssa Blessing (USA), 4
Christina Heath (USA), 4
Hyo Jung Kim (South Korea), 4
Julia Wohlschlegel (USA), 4
Dulce Cristal Lopez Castellanos (Mexico), 4
Isha Barrow (USA), 4
Christiane Silveira (Brazil), 4
Jade Kelsie Wolfenden (UK), 3
Stephanie Kalms (Australia), 3
Rudy Guerrero (USA), 3
Sonia Lewis (USA), 3
Bola Seo (South Korea), 3
Lydia Munroe (USA), 3
Alejandra Soule (USA), 3
Lexus Redmond (USA), 3
Pricila Rodrigues (Brazil), 3
Alice Marchisio (Italy), 3
Elizabeth Yisrael (USA), 2
Sethia Daigle (USA), 2
Beatriz Biscaia (Portugal), 2
Claire Bonaccorso (Australia), 2
Hope Harper (USA), 2
Emily Plajer (USA), 2
Trisha Green (USA), 2
Meechka Marcelin (USA), 2
Hyekyeong Hwang (South Korea), 2
Yadira Rosado (USA), 2
Alexandria Ross (USA), 2
Jodie Yunker (USA), 2
Giuditta Taccani (Italy), 2
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Greg has covered the four major sports for six years and has been featured on sites such as Sports Illustrated, Fox Sports, SB Nation, NJ.com, and FanSided. Now, he is transitioning into the world of bodybuilding and strength sports.
Arnold Schwarzenegger Responds After ‘Screw Your Freedom’ Comments
After making comments about anti-maskers, Arnold Schwarzenegger has responded once again.
There has been plenty of backlash against Arnold Schwarzenegger since his recent comments about anti-maskers during the COVID-19 pandemic. “Screw your freedom” is the phrase that has not been received well from many. Schwarzenegger continued by calling people who do not wear masks “schmucks.”
Different companies and individuals have commented and began taking action following these comments. Schwarzenegger himself recently responded following his comments in a recent column with The Atlantic.
“I’ll admit, calling people schmucks and saying “Screw your freedom” was a little much, even if I stand by the sentiment. But there is nothing that I’m more passionate about than keeping America great, and it’s the only subject that can make me lose my temper,” Schwarzenegger wrote.
Arnold Schwarzenegger knew that he would receive backlash for his comments but did not exactly take them back. He continued discussing responsibilities that Americans should have.
“But some of the responses really worried me. Many people told me that the Constitution gives them rights, but not responsibilities. They feel no duty to protect their fellow citizens.”
“That’s when I realized we all need a civics lesson. I can’t help but wonder how much better off we’d be if Americans took a step back from politics and spent a minute thinking about how lucky we are to call this country home. Instead of tweeting, we could think about what we owe to the patriots who came before us and those who will follow us.”
On Monday, REDCON1 CEO Aaron Singerman announced that his company will no longer be sponsors of the Arnold Classic. Mutant Nutrition will replace REDCON1 as spoors at the event this year. Executives of the event have confirmed that there is no sponsorship issue with the Arnold Classic.
Senior event manager Brent LaLonde recently spoke with Generation Iron’s Edwin Mejia Jr. and assured that the Arnold Classic events will continue to be first-class events with many sponsors continuing to work with the brand. They are also offering for REDCON1 athletes to still participate in the event.
“We are appreciative of all of the companies and people that are working with us to support the athletes and fans that are looking forward to being in Columbus,” executives of the Arnold Classic have said.
“As always, Arnold will personally pay for the travel of athletes. If REDCON1 won’t supper their efforts to compete in the Arnold Classic, we will make sure they have the chance to be onstage. This show isn’t political.”
Along with REDCON1’s decision to withdraw as a sponsor, Brian Shaw has recently taken down posters of Arnold Schwarzenegger in his gym. Many took offense to Schwarzenegger’s comments about freedom in America, especially with him finding great success in many areas after coming from Austria. This is something that Schwarzenegger addressed as well.
“I am an immigrant. This country gave me everything. I often tell people not to call me self-made; I prefer to call myself American-made. My success would have been impossible without the principles of the United States and the generosity of Americans.”
Generation Iron will continue to provide updates as more news come out involving this story. For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Header photo credit: Gage Skidmore
Gunter Schlierkamp Answers: Did He Retire Too Soon?
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Gunter Schlierkamp discusses his lower placing in 2006, struggling with his physique, and the decision to retire.
In 2005, Gunter Schlierkamp placed fourth at the Mr. Olympia. This seemed part of a steady rise over the years and an indicator that he could continue to be a threat for the Sandow trophy. Unfortunately, a year later Schlierkamp placed 10th at the Mr. Olympia 2006. Shortly after he retired from competitive bodybuilding. What happened? In our latest GI Exclusive, Gunter Schlierkamp details his final year of bodybuilding and whether or not he retired too soon.
Gunter Schlierkamp is a bodybuilder with an iconic physique despite never being a Mr. Olympia champion. And to many fans who followed his career – he seemed destined to one day earn that champion status. Then suddenly in 2006, his physique took a hit. He looked less on point than the previous year. He ultimately placed 10th at the Olympia and retired.
For fans of the bodybuilder, this seemed like a sudden and screeching halt. Gunter Schlierkamp had a steady rise to a high point of fourth place – only to suddenly slam down to 10th and stop competing all together. What would have happened if he gave it another year? Did he retire too early?
We asked Gunter Schlierkamp these questions directly. Reflecting back – does Schlierkamp regret retiring after his slump year in 2006? Or does he think it was all for the best? Schlierkamp speaks bluntly about the whole situation. For some unexplainable reason, his body was not reacting to his training methods the same way it had been in years prior. He tried changing up his methods but nothing worked. It’s as if his body suddenly started rejecting his training all together.
Gunter Schlierkamp was 36 years old at this time. There have been bodybuilders that compete well into their 40s and even 50s. But perhaps for Schlierkamp, his body was starting to change as he aged. With his body reacting differently to his training, he got off rhythm and lost confidence. Suddenly he was in a spiral that led to a physique he was less proud of than in previous years.
After placing 10th at the Mr. Olympia 2006, Gunter Schlierkamp thought long and hard about what his next move should be. He understood that bodybuilding couldn’t be a lifetime career. He also had other passions in his life that he wanted to pursue such as being a husband and father. Ultimately, Schlierkamp saw this as an early warning sign. A warning that the decades of bodybuilding were starting to take a toll on his body. So he hung up the towel and started focusing on his family.
Of course, Gunter Schlierkamp had plenty of other opportunities due to bodybuilding. He maintained a sponsorship for income and eventually started his own business. This was all thanks to the reputation he gained as a bodybuilder. So does he feel that he retired too early? No, Schlierkamp thinks he made the right choice. Perhaps he could have bounced back after 2006 – but he would have also missed out on other opportunities that he is proud of in his life.
You can watch Gunter Schlierkamp’s full response about his retirement in our latest GI Exclusive interview segment above!
Brian Shaw Takes Down Poster of Arnold Schwarzenegger in His Gym
Brian Shaw Takes Down Poster of Arnold Schwarzenegger in His Gym
So it appears that the fallout continues for Arnold Schwarzenegger after his recent comments. Brian Shaw is another in a list of athletes, sponsors, and supplement company heads who have an issue with Arnold’s freedom comments. Brian Shaw is so upset that he actually took down a poster of Arnold Schwarzenegger in his home gym.
Freedom is a thing that a great deal of people hold dear, particularly in the United States. The idea of freedom is what the country was founded on. Yet in reality the country has a muddled past with the concept of freedom. After what many have viewed as an attack on the concept of freedom, fans, athletes, and competitors in the bodybuilding community have expressed their disappointment in the recent comments made by Arnold Schwarzenegger.
While it can be argued that Arnold’s comments were about people being responsible and helping their fellow man, people are not taking it that way. One such person is four-time World’s Strongest Man Brian Shaw.
A proud American, Brian Shaw found the comments made by Arnold Schwarzenegger to be upsetting. Shaw took to Instagram to express his own feelings on the matter and that he took down a poster of Schwarzenegger that hung in his home gym.
FREEDOM IS IMPORTANT ??
Today is a very sad day for me as I had to take down the poster of @schwarzenegger on the wall of my gym. I have had a poster of him in my gym since I started training.
He has the freedom to say whatever he wants and that’s part of being an American citizen but him saying “screw your freedom” did not sit well with me and therefore it was time for his poster to come down from my gym wall.
Freedom didn’t come free and I will always stand for freedom ??
We could continue to see fall out from this situation as time moves forward. Only time will tell how much more this will affect Arnold Schwarzenegger and his brand.
What do you think of Brian Shaw removing a poster of Arnold Schwarzenegger from his gym?
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Managing Editor at Generation Iron, Jonathan Salmon is a writer, martial arts instructor, and geek culture enthusiast. Check out his YouTube, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and Sound Cloud for in-depth MMA analysis.
How Kettlebell Swings Work To Build Strength & Power
Kettlebell swings are a great full body workout to maximize strength gains while boosting power.
You’re sick of the same old workouts, right? You love benching, squatting, deadlifting, maybe even pull-ups. And those biceps curls and goblet squats are just getting to be a bit old for your routine. You need a change, but change can be hard. Sometimes we put a lot of pressure on ourselves to find that one golden exercise you can use for all your needs but it can seem daunting to find. Kettlebell swings are that exercise to shake up your routine by offering a total body exercise that not only works to enhance strength, but also boost power so you get the best out of your performance.
While some may say the kettlebell swing exercise is that golden exercise you need in your routine, we won’t go that far. But we do believe this exercise is amazing and can offer diversity to your workouts that you hadn’t thought possible. And while dumbbells and barbells tend to get all the love in the gym, kettlebells are one piece of equipment you can’t ignore.
Let’s take a look at kettlebell swings and jump into this complete guide for this exercise. From what this exercise is, to muscles worked, and the great benefits attached to it, you are well on your way to seeing those gains you want most.
What Are Kettlebell Swings?
The kettlebell swings exercise is a compound movement that works many muscle groups in your body and is great for getting that total body workout. This exercise is used to not only increase strength and size, but also power and explosivity as you really work to get that weight moving and your heart rate going (1). With tons of benefits and a real ability to aid in both sport specific and functional movements, kettlebell swings are perfect for putting into your routine.
Muscles Worked
When it comes to this total body workout in the kettlebell swings exercise, many muscles get work done which can prove great for your sport specific needs and more functional ones. For your lower body, you really get great work done in the quads, glutes, hamstrings, and calves to aid in strength and power and this happens during the first half of the exercise. Your upper body will see your chest, shoulders, back muscles, forearms, and core all feeling a bit of a burn during the second half of the workout. All in all, this rounds out a great full body exercise.
Benefits Of Kettlebell Swings
The benefits of kettlebell swings are hard to ignore and can greatly affect all areas your training and performance, as well as your overall physical health.
Benefits of kettlebell swings include:
Strong posterior chain: A stronger back, including muscles like your glutes and hamstrings, will provide for better posture and balance during exercises.
Increased conditioning and power: This exercise will get your heart rate going and really work your endurance for a bit of a cardiovascular lift while also boosting power and explosivity (2).
Works your core: This exercise forces you to say engaged, relying on your core for that powerful stance.
Full body workout: Kettlebell swings allow you to work many muscles, both in the upper body and lower body, for a great full body workout (3).
Add variety to workouts: This exercise can be fun and engaging to add that necessary variety in your workouts to keep you in it.
How To Perform This Exercise
Here are the steps for performing kettlebell swings:
Stand around shoulder width apart and have your shoulders over your hips. You will also tuck your chin for this movement.
Holding the kettlebell with both hands, let it hang straight down with your arms extended. Your inner elbows will face forward and you should be in an upright position.
The first half of this exercise will see you in a semi squat position with the kettlebell between your legs. Maintain good posture and a tight core.
The second half will see you drive up, moving the kettlebell back through your legs and up to about chest level.
Lower back down or make this a continuous movement as you repeat for your desired amount of reps.
Featured Kettlebell For Gains
Finding the right kettlebell can seem like a daunting task. But there are great products out there made of high-quality to last a while and provide comfort and versatility for all your workouts. So, while dumbbells and barbells tend to get all the attention, it would be a disservice to neglect kettlebells. And since gym equipment tends to be expensive, looking to affordable and worthwhile options like kettlebells can be great. Oh, and don’t forget to use quality supplementation like a pre-workout and protein powder with a great exercise in kettlebell swings.
Kettlebell Kings Powder Coat Kettlebells
Kettlebell Kings Powder Coat Kettlebells are made from a single piece of cast iron with a well welded handle. Powder coating allows for a great gripping surface for whatever your workout may be.
These kettlebells from Kettlebell Kings are amazing for promoting better grip for safer and more effective workouts, overall protection of the iron for durability and longevity, and a promise from an amazing company in Kettlebell Kings. Each kettlebell is made from a single piece of cast iron so the handle remains intact and each is color-coded so you know exactly what amount you’re using. The powder coat ensures a solid grip for no slippage or poor form. The structural integrity of these kettlebells will ensure the integrity of your lifts and lifestyle.
Price: Ranges from $69.99 to $424.99
Check out our individual review for Kettlebell Kings Powder Coat Kettlebells here!
Check out our list of the Best Kettlebells for more great products!
Wrap Up
When it comes down it, kettlebell swings are a great exercise that you can perform to aid in strength and size, as well as power and explosivity. The ability for you to stay grounded and stable can greatly affect your gains and give you the best chance at performing at a high level. Don’t let a poor workout ruin your chances at seeing gains and add kettlebell swings into your routine to see that real change happen.
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
Beardsley, C.; Contreras, B. (2014). “The Role of Kettlebells in Strength and Conditioning”. (source)
Lake, J.; Lauder, M. (2012). “Kettlebell swing training improves maximal and explosive strength”. (source)
Meigh, N.; Keogh, J.; Schram, B.; Hing, W. (2019). “Kettlebell training in clinical practice: a scoping review”. (source)
5 Gym Etiquette Rules You Should Know About
5 Most Important Rules Of Gym Etiquette You Should Know
When some people are in the gym, they think no one is watching them. They take the gym to be a practice ground and decide to do things which they otherwise wouldn’t do outside. The gym is like any other social setting and you need to be on your best behavior.
Without you knowing it, there could be some things you do in the gym which could be a cause for trouble for the other people. If you do the right things, becoming a gym sweetheart isn’t so hard.
1. Re-Rack Your Weights
This is the basic gym etiquette most people lack. People use weights and leave them on the floor after completing their exercise. These people think re-racking the weights is the job of the gym employees and permit themselves to scatter weights throughout the gym.
While keeping the gym clean and tidy is the job of the gym staff, cleaning after you isn’t. Since you’re working out, it is safe to assume you’re old enough to clean up after yourself. Every gym should have this written on their walls –
“If you’re man enough to lift it, you’re man enough to put it back.”
2. Be Presentable
While it’s true your gym clothes have a smaller life cycle than your normal clothes, it doesn’t mean you should start wearing untidy clothes to the gym. You look at yourself in the mirror for most of the time you’re in the gym.
Looking good while working can act as a motivation. You meet many people while you’re at the gym, and you should leave a good first impression. Talking about first impressions, do everyone a favor and wear a deodorant. Stop with the homeless look already.
3. Don’t Help When Not Asked For
Broscientists have earned a name for themselves when it comes to interfering in others workouts. If someone doesn’t ask you for training tips or the right form while performing an exercise, please keep all your training hacks to yourself.
Everyone’s body is different and responds to different things. People realize what works for them after years of trial and error. Don’t think you can correct everything with your training hacks. Not to mention, no one appreciates a broscientists or his tips.
4. Ask Before Taking Equipment
If you’ve been working out for some time, there are chances you might have found yourself in a situation when someone took the weights you were using without your permission. We’re sure you wouldn’t have liked that.
Even if you find barbells, dumbbells or weight plates lying around, ask around before taking them. While you’re at it, use a towel to wipe down the equipment if you get them dirty. Doing this will add good karma to your gym life and the same will start happening to you.
5. No Dibs, Please!
Some people have the habit of blocking others from the equipment they’re using. A little sharing never hurt anybody. Not sharing is one of the most lacked gym etiquettes. Everyone is running on a schedule, always offer to share the equipment.
Since you’ll have some time in between sets, it is a great way to build new relationships. If you’re running late, you can speed up your workouts by using advanced training techniques like supersets.
Which are the etiquettes people at your gym lack? Let us know in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook and Twitter.
Why Every Bodybuilder Should Take Probiotics For Overall Performance
The benefits for a probiotic go far beyond better digestion and every bodybuilder should consider taking them.
Many associate probiotics as simply a supplement to aid in digestion and keep you running regularly. But the pros of probiotic supplements, especially for bodybuilders, goes far beyond simply that. Research has proven that bacteria found in your gut has great benefit to your health and athletic performance, making this a staple for a bodybuilder’s diet when paired with food. Probiotic supplements are great for gaining size and with a regular source of them, your chance at optimal mass growth greatly increase with these products.
What Are Probiotics?
Your body is full of good and bad bacteria. Probiotic supplements are considered to be the good guys and are live bacteria and yeasts that have a plethora of pros, most notably in your digestive system to help keep it clean. By keeping your gut clean, probiotic supplements have been proven to increase muscle growth as a result of providing your body with the essential tools to absorb nutrients from your food. So, a cleaner gut equals more nutrients which equals more mass. Stress is known to damage your muscles and probiotics aids in the regulation of the production of stress as well. While you can get probiotics from supplements, much of the food we eat also contains plenty of this bacteria to aid in gut health and probiotic products can really help.
Types Of Probiotics
Two of the most common groups of probiotics are Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. Each of these has different species, resulting in different strains, so it is important to find the right one for you. A general rule when choosing a probiotic is that more strains are preferred. This will increase the chances that at least one, or several, will colonize in your gut. The label will also have a number in the billions, which is the number of bacteria that form colonies, also called Colony Forming Units (CFU). Roughly three billion CFU’s is a reasonable starting number for a healthy adult, but again, it all depends on how you feel and adjust to taking healthy probiotic digestive products.
Benefits Of Probiotics
The pros of choosing a probiotic are what bodybuilders will love. A solid ratio of beneficial bacteria to other bacteria has been shown to improve blood lipid levels, reduced damage, and assist recovery. It can influence a bodybuilders body mass composition, which is the proportion of fat and non-fat mass in the body. Through this, the ability for growth is increased and those gains will come to fruition. The impact on recovery is due to the fact it can reduce inflammation so that stress endured during the workout won’t punish you later and digestive health and overall gut health will ensure no nutrients go to waste.
Helping to boost your metabolism is key for you can eat more frequently and without worrying about packing on the pounds, keeping your body fueled and engaged. With its well-known benefits of promoting digestive health, your body is able to absorb more of those essential nutrients and provide you with the much-needed energy to fuel those grueling workouts.
Probiotic strains have also been shown to increase mental health including attitude, mood, and your level of pain tolerance. These are important to training for how you feel is how you act. If you feel great, you are more likely to work hard in the gym and those gains are sure to show. While it could go without saying, all of these benefits are connected to complete a well-rounded training cycle. A boost in your metabolism will keep your body regularly absorbing those essential nutrients and allow for increased growth. Reducing inflammation will aid in recovery and your mindset will be there to work hard and improve endurance to make those lasting effects count.
Food With Good Bacteria
Yogurt
Yogurt is a great source of probiotic benefits for it starts as milk and is then fermented using the live cultures of solid bacteria probiotic strains. Even after processing, many of these beneficial bacteria stick around. The probiotics that exist in yogurt will promote a healthy gut and the high calcium count is a benefit for strong bones and will promote digestive health and weight loss.
Kombucha
Kombucha has been on the rise as a health trend and the reasons are obvious. It is a drink created from fermented black or green tea along with sugar, yeast, and bacteria. It promotes solid digestion and is also linked to being an immune booster and can support joint health. It also aids in the natural detoxification of your liver and support your immune system and digestive health, as well as weight loss.
Sauerkraut
This sour and salty cabbage is a great source of probiotic benefits and is rich is lactic acid bacteria. Although high in sodium, sauerkraut has good levels of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
Dark chocolate
While chocolate does not contain probiotics, it can help them survive the high levels of acidity in the digestive tract making it a solid carrier. Probiotics can be added to dark chocolate and it will help them survive. Dark chocolate is an antioxidant rich superfood which is beneficial to your overall health and wellness.
Tempeh
Tempeh is a popular meat substitute derived from fermented soybeans. Since fermentation requires adequate levels of live bacteria, tempeh is full of them. As a great alternative protein source, tempeh is full of probiotics and vitamin B12.
Cheese
Cheese is a great source of probiotics because bacteria can survive the process of cheese-making. As a solid source of protein, cheese is a great food to add to your diet for more than just the beneficial bacteria. Whether it be mozzarella, cheddar, cottage cheese, gouda, or feta, all contain probiotic properties to give you that solid boost of this beneficial bacteria for your immune system.
Wrap Up
Probiotics are a great way to boost your training and bring you to the next level. With so much to offer, the pros should make you want to try them and see for yourself what they can do. With their ability to promote solid digestion, absorb those much needed nutrients, support growth, and help your overall mental state, probiotics are worth looking into if you’re a bodybuilder seeking big gains. Try as a supplement or incorporate more of these foods that have good bacteria into your diet and help yourself look and feel great.
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
Julius Maddox and Danial Zamani To Square Off In Bench Press Showdown
Julius Maddox and Danial Zamani are preparing to go head-to-head in a bench press battle early next year.
When discussing the tp bench pressers in the world, there are two names that come to mind immediately — Julius Maddox and Danial Zamani. Who is the best? We might have an answer to that question very soon.
According to an Instagram post by CT Fletcher, there will be a showdown on the bench between Maddox and Zamani at Iron Wars V, a powerlifting competition created by Fletcher himself.
“THE STAGE IS SET!
FOR THE GREATEST BENCH BATTLE IN MODERN HISTORY!
I’VE RECEIVED VERBAL CONFIRMATION FROM BOTH JULIUS MADDOX @irregular_strength THE UNDISPUTED KING ? OF THE BENCH AND REINING WORLD RECORD HOLDER
AND THE IRANIAN ?? SUPERMAN HIMSELF @danialzamani1 THE NO.1 CHALLENGER TO THE CROWN?,” fletcher wrote on instagram.
Maddox currently holds the world record for a raw bench press at 782 pounds. He has an attempt at 800 pounds set up for the end of August. It will be interesting to see if Maddox can make the leap. If there is going to be anyone that has a chance to take the record from Maddox, it will be Zamani. This is something that Maddox has even acknowledged.
Danial Zamani has been putting up some enormous numbers while training. This includes a 766-pound bench press back in July. It is clear that the world record is on his mind and we could see an attempt soon.
Julius Maddox is not shy about commenting on Zamani’s posts on social media. The two are well aware of wha the other can do and this will make the head-to-head matchup even more exciting.
“Getting crazy out here ????” Maddox commented after Zamani’s 766-pound bench.
“thanks brother ❤️❤️❤️” Zamani responded.
“I’m super excited to be there to host and witness history,” Fletcher continued on Instagram. “We will livestream and tape this event, but ask anyone who has ever been to Iron Wars, there’s nothing like being there in person, so if you can, you don’t want to miss this opportunity, coming January 2022 to the Valley of the Beast!! Danial Zamani – Just did 777 in training. Julius Maddox – World Record 782.”
Friendly competition is good for the sport and that is what can be seen between these two elite lifters but there is no doubt that they both want to hold the world record. This event has a chance to be as exciting as it gets so like Fletcher said, you will not want to miss it.
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