Tag: Bodybuilding

Kai Greene Documentary ‘Kai’ Receives New Teaser Poster With Announcement Film Is “Coming Soon” This Summer

Kai Greene Documentary ‘Kai’ Receives New Teaser Poster With Announcement Film Is “Coming Soon” This Summer

The Kai Greene story will be fully revealed with the release of the biopic ‘Kai’ later this summer. Check out the new first look teaser poster.
Last year, the Generation Iron Network announced production on a documentary chronicling the life story of Kai Greene – with the involvement of The Last Dance producer Matt Maxson. Now the studio has released the official teaser poster of Kai and have announced that the film will be coming soon later this summer. Notoriously known for his cryptic words and mysterious past – Kai will explore Kai Greene’s life story from childhood through his bodybuilding career and into his post-retirement life. It will be the most comprehensive and direct look into the life and mind of one of bodybuilding’s biggest modern legends.
Kai Greene is a former professional bodybuilder and one of the biggest modern day legends in the sport. Known by his nicknames ‘The Predator’ and ‘The People’s Champ’, he is decorated with multiple major bodybuilding victories including five Arnold Classic victories. Check out the official teaser poster below:

Beyond his accolades, Kai Greene was also known for adding a new form of poetry into the sport of bodybuilding. He would often wear mysterious masks and unique costumes to his posing routines. Kai is a painter, a writer, and an all around creative artists. He saw bodybuilding as yet another form to express his artistry. His creativity breathed life into modern bodybuilding.
However, Kai Greene’s journey towards bodybuilding greatness was not easy. He was born straight into struggle that followed him throughout his life. Kai grew up in a broken household full of verbal and physical abuse. He was taken from his parents by the state and put into orphanages only to eventually get arrested at school and put into juvenile detention. This is where he discovered bodybuilding.
Upon leaving juvenile detention, he used his improved physique to become a male exotic dancer to make money. He slowly gained the confidence to compete in bodybuilding shows, eventually earned his pro card, and build himself up into the icon we know today.
His mixture of creativity and bodybuilding prowess turned him into a crossover success. He gained roles in television and movies including a particularly memorable highlight in Netflix’s Stranger Things.
Kai chronicles Kai Greene’s life story from childhood, through bodybuilding, and onto his latest goal – to create and release a graphic novel series through a major publisher titled Chronicles of King Kai. The documentary will cover in-depth the pinnacle moments of his life and career including his rivalry with Phil Heath, his reasons for retiring from the sport, and his traumatic past.
Most notably, it will be the first ever authorized biopic about Kai Greene’s life. And it will also bring into direct focus the true facts and drama of his life. Known for his cryptic way of discussing his past – all secrets will be fully unveiled.
Emmy nominated Producer Matt Maxson’s The Last Dance starring Michael Jordan took the world by storm in 2020 – becoming one of the most talked about TV events of the year on ESPN and Netflix. He now took his producing talents to the world of bodybuilding and fitness with his involvement in the Kai documentary feature.
Matt Maxon’s other producing credits include Andre The Giant and The Circus: Inside The Greatest Political Show On Earth. Before producing, he spent five years working in production at HBO Sports where he worked on the network’s documentary series 24/7 which garnered 18 Emmy Awards.
The Last Dance received critical acclaim, with praise for its directing and editing. It won the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Documentary or Nonfiction Series at the 72nd Primetime Emmy Awards. On review aggregator Rotten Tomatoes, the series holds an approval rating of 96% based on 53 reviews. The documentary series provided the most in-depth look at Michael Jordan’s career with the Chicago Bulls where he played alongside other legendary players such as Scottie Pippen, Dennis Rodman, and coach Phil Jackson.
Kai will be directed by Vlad Yudin (Generation Iron, Ronnie Coleman: The King) and produced by both Yudin and Edwin Mejia Jr. (Generation Iron, Ronnie Coleman: The King). It will be executive produced by Matt Maxon, David Gendron, Russ Riggins, and Viviana Zarragoitia.
While an exact release date has not been announced. It has been confirmed by the Generation Iron Network that the film is completed and “coming soon” – set to release later this summer.

Dan Solomon Claims Derek Lunsford Might Not Be In Olympia Without Special Invitation: ‘Derek Is Much Bigger Than 212’

Dan Solomon Claims Derek Lunsford Might Not Be In Olympia Without Special Invitation: ‘Derek Is Much Bigger Than 212’

Dan Solomon and the Olympia committee are weighing all options when it comes to Derek Lunsford.
Derek Lunsford reached the pinnacle of the 212 division during the 2021 Olympia when he defeated Shaun Clarida for the Sandow Trophy. After reaching this level, Lunsford has put on some incredible muscle mass in the offseason — so much so that he might not be ready for 212 come December. Olympia President Dan Solomon recently spoke on the potential decisions regarding Lunsford.
Lunsford pulled off the upset of Clarida in October after years of work to reach the top. Now, Lunsford could be ready to take the next step. The 212 champion appeared on stage during the 2022 Pittsburgh Pro in May as a guest poser. He appeared alongside Nick Walker, Brandon Curry, and Hunter Labrada as he filled in for reigning two-time Olympia champion Big Ramy.
During this appearance, it was clear that Derek Lunsford was able to stack up with other mass monsters in Men’s Open. This is when the conversation began about Lunsford potentially moving to Open bodybuilding. That time might come quicker than expected.

Dan Solomon: “Derek Is Much Bigger Than 212”
Obviously, Derek Lunsford is qualified for the 2022 Olympia after winning last year. The problem is, he might be too big to return to the 212 division and defend his title. This is a situation that is unique and has the Olympia committee going over different options.
In a recent YouTube video with OlympiaTV, Solomon discussed the possibility of Lunsford moving to Open bodybuilding.
“Derek is much bigger than 212. Then, we ask ourselves, what does he have to put his body through to get under 212-pounds. That’s a legitimate question right?
First of all, he is the reigning 212 champion. He hasn’t even had a chance to go in and defend his 212 title yet, that’s the first thing. But then we have a health issue. Not saying Derek has a health issue, Derek is very healthy, so let me be clear about that. Here’s why it’s a health issue. Derek is no where near 212 at this point. We’ve seen it.”
It is extremely uncommon that a reigning champion at the Olympia is in a position like this. Because of this, Dan Solomon also mentioned a scenario where Lunsford is left out of the show completely.
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Could Derek Lunsford Miss The Olympia?
If Derek Lunsford is unable to compete in 212, he will require a special invitation to Men’s Open. If this does not happen, here is a legitimate chance that Solomon and the Olympia committee prepare for a show without Lunsford.
“So, yeah, the Derek Lunsford matter is one that we’ve never really been faced with.
That our reigning champion might not even be able to compete in the 212 because his body has grown at such a feverish pace.”
“Derek’s situation is unique because if it comes to a point where we have to evaluate an invitation for him to compete in the big division, that’s a tough one because it’s possible if he doesn’t get that opportunity, he might not be able to be in the show.”
Derek Lunsford is clearly one of the top bodybuilders in the world and could have the chance to stand alongside the best at the Olympia in Men’s Open. There are man who believe that Lunsford could finish in the top five if he made the jump. While this remains a legitimate possibility, Solomon and the rest of the committee are not deep into thought just yet.
“The question for us becomes, do we want to put on an Olympia without Derek Lunsford in the contest? That’s a conversation for you know, Jim Manion, Tyler, Jake Wood that we will have to have when that time comes. Right now, we’re not thinking too much about it.”
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

INBA PNBA’s Upcoming Summer Bodybuilding Shows

INBA PNBA’s Upcoming Summer Bodybuilding Shows

The INBA PNBA’s summer bodybuilding competition schedule is here. 
The International Natural Bodybuilding Association (INBA)/Professional Natural Bodybuilding Association (PNBA) has had a successful season with astonishing natural athletes representing what’s truly possible with your physique without doping. In addition, the INBA PNBA recently had one of their other big shows, the World Championships, in Florence, Italy, on June 25, 2022.
And they have much more shows left in their season before the Super Bowl of natural bodybuilding–Natural Olympia. Natural Olympia is the biggest natural bodybuilding competition–equivalent to Mr. Olympia in the International Federation of Bodybuilding and Fitness (IFBB) Pro. To give you some insight before the most significant natural bodybuilding competition, the INBA PNBA released its upcoming summer competition dates on social media. 
INBA PNBA’s Upcoming Summer Shows 
Below is a list of the upcoming natural bodybuilding shows for the summer of 2022. Plus, the prizes and awards for each event. 

July 16th INBA Central California Bakersfield

PNBA Pro Qualification Awarded
INBA Team USA Qualifier 

July 23rd PNBA INBA Pro/Am North American Chicago, IL

PNBA Prize Money Payouts
Natural Olympia Qualifier Professional/Amateurs
PNBA Pro Qualification Awarded

July 30th Pro/Am International Iron Man Magazine Hermosa Beach, CA

PNBA Prize Money Payouts
Features in Iron Man Magazine 
PNBA Pro Qualification Awarded
Natural Olympia Qualifier Professional/Amateurs

August 6th PNBA Wolfpack Classic & Cougar Classic Santa, Rosa CA

Natural Olympia Qualifier Professional
34th Annual INBA California Naturals 
INBA Team USA Qualifier 

August 13th Colorado State Grand Junction, CO

PNBA Pro Qualification Awarded
INBA Team USA Qualifier

August 20th PNBA INBA Pro/Am Nationals Oakville, CT

PNBA Prize Money Payouts
Natural Olympia Qualifier Professional/Amateurs
PNBA Pro Qualification Awarded

August 20th INBA SOCAL Championships Chula Vista, CA

PNBA Pro Qualification Awarded
INBA Team USA Qualifier 

August 27th INBA Utah State Springville, UT

PNBA Pro Qualification Awarded
INBA Team USA Qualifier

September 2-3rd PNBA INBA Pro/Am Natural Universe Tampa, FL

PNBA Prize Money Payouts
Natural Olympia Qualifier Professional/Amateurs
PNBA Pro Qualification Awarded

You can see their full Instagram post regarding their upcoming shows below. 

Natural Universe Hosting First Pro Wellness Category 
The INBA PNBA will host the Natural Universe in Tampa, FL, September 2nd-3rd. This event is a 2022 Natural Olympia qualifier for professional and amateur athletes. In addition, this show will be offering its first pro Wellness category. On social media, the league stated:
“The INBA PNBA Natural Universe Will Be Hosted In Tampa, FL!
2022 Natural Olympia Qualifier for both professional and amateur athletes. 
Ladies, the PNBA is offering its 1st PRO WELLNESS Category September 2nd-3rd at the Natural Universe! 
The Natural Universe is open to all Professional & Amateur Athletes from other organizations.
The Natural Universe is a Natural Olympia Qulifier [sic] for both Professional & Amateur Athletes.”
You can see their full post about the Natural Universe competition on Instagram below. 

Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter to stay tuned for natural bodybuilding show results!

“Bulking For The Olympia:” Chris Bumstead Shares 4,133-Calorie Day Of Eating To Add Muscle Mass

“Bulking For The Olympia:” Chris Bumstead Shares 4,133-Calorie Day Of Eating To Add Muscle Mass

Chris Bumstead has started a bulking phase looking to increase muscle mass.
Chris Bumstead is not only one of the most successful bodybuilders today, he is also one of the most popular. Bumstead regularly shares workouts across his different social media platforms for millions of followers to see. Recently, Bumstead took viewers through a full day of eating as he enters a bulking stage.
Bumstead took to YouTube on Sunday to share this video. The reigning three-time Classic Physique Olympia champion looks primed and ready to take home his fourth in a row. Bumstead stands out from the pack because of his dedication to the sport, including his training regimen and extremely strict diet plan.
Below, you can find a full breakdown of Bumstead’s bulking diet plan as he looks to add muscle mass over the course of the summer months.

Chris Bumstead’s Full Day Of Eating
Chris Bumstead entered his bulking phase looking to put on some more muscle mass over the course of the summer. He plans to put 500 or more calories into his diet at the beginning to see how his body reacts. To begin, the meal plan consists of 4,133 total calories for the day, 460 grams carbs, 164 grams protein, 140 grams fat.
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Meal 1 
The first meal of the day for Bumstead was a shake consisting of 931 calories, 72g protein, 23g fat, and 114g carbs. During the process of putting his shake together, Bumstead shared some tips on how to make it easy to drink.
First, Bumstead blends the oats by themself in order to create a consistency that is like flour. This will make the shake less grainy. Also, he uses water so the shake is not as thick.

120 grams oats
Raspberries and Blueberries (no specific amount)
Water
1 scoop fiber
2 scoops vanilla protein
30 grams Organic almond butter

Meal 2 
Bumstead’s next two meals are prepared and taken to the office. He quickly warms them up in the microwave so he can eat while working.

180 grams chicken breast
250 grams Jasmine rice
20 grams Macadamian nut oil

“I will say this. I don’t think there’s an optimal amount of food over one meal that you should eat before you workout. It comes down to what your goals are. If you’re bulking, how is it easiest to eat a lot of food?” bumstead explained.
Personally, if I only eat two meals, workout for two hours then I come home, I’m really tired, lazy. If I eat three meals and a shake or so after, it’s really hard. With that knowledge, I need to have three meals before working out.”
READ MORE: Why Does Chris Bumstead Take Multiple Ice Baths Per Week?
Meal 3
This is the final meal before Chris Bumstead hits the gym. He hits his three-meal threshold before training and can finish the day strong post-workout.

180 grams bison
270 grams Jasmine rice
15 grams Macadamian nut oil

“Not really much to say about this. The key to success in bodybuilding, getting big, preparation. Go to work. Meal prep.”
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Meal 4 – Post Workout

180 grams chicken breast
20 grams olive oil
280 grams Jasmine rice
Half an avocado

Meal 5

300 grams potatoes
180 grams ground turkey
Almond butter sandwich

At this point, the full day of eating is done for Chris Bumstead. Bumstead continues to explain how he can fluctuate the amount of calories in his meals depending on how his body reacts.
“I feel like my metabolism has slowed down. Maybe my body has been putting on muscle mass more easily. Ive been doing this for more years. I used to have to eat 5,000-6,000 calories to look just like this. Now, 4,100 calories has me put on weight right now. So can’t complain about that.
So, this is where we’re at. I’m going to keep eating like this consistently. I’m going to weigh myself, pretty much every single day, and tracking it. If my weight doesn’t increase in like two to three weeks, I’ll add like 500 calories. Personally, that’s how I do it. I give myself like two to three weeks. If I see no gain, I’ll add some food. If I put on too much weight, I’ll bring it back down.”
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Joe Rogan Believes Arnold Schwarzenegger Had “Healthier Look,” Disputes Claim That He Could Not Compete Today

Joe Rogan Believes Arnold Schwarzenegger Had “Healthier Look,” Disputes Claim That He Could Not Compete Today

Many are questioning whether Arnold Schwarzenegger would be as successful in modern bodybuilding. Joe Rogan is not one of those people.
It is a common theme nowadays where athletes in all sports from previous generations are being disrespected a bit by the younger crowd. Could Babe Ruth hit the pitching today? Would Michael Jordan be as good as LeBron James if he played now? In bodybuilding, the thought immediately goes to Arnold Schwarzenegger.
From his early days on stage, it was clear that Schwarzenegger has one of the best physiques in the world. He is still considered the greatest bodybuilder of all-time but this has not stopped some recent questions. 
Joe Rogan recently discussed if Arnold Schwarzenegger could compete with today’s bodybuilders on a recent episode of The Joe Rogan Experience. In his mind, there is no question.
“If you look back at Arnold, look at that picture of Arnold up there. They say that he couldn’t compete with today’s bodybuilders but honestly, I think that looks better.”

Arnold Schwarzenegger vs. Today’s Bodybuilders
Arnold Schwarzenegger burst onto the scene with a massive physique that was extremely shredded for his size. As time went on, this became normal and competitors are getting even bigger. From Ronnie Coleman to Lee Haney to Phil Heath, size and conditioning keeps improving but this does not mean that Schwarzenegger would struggle today.
There is a concern about the use of PEDs in bodybuilding because of a recent string of deaths. Competitors are using different cycles to gain an edge on opponents and in some cases, it can prove to be extremely dangerous. While times have changed, it is clear that Schwarzenegger was using his own substances back in the day. According to Joe Rogan, whatever he did built a physique that was healthier looking than those today.
“He looks f***ing fantastic. I mean, obviously, he’s a bodybuilder. No question about it but I think that’s a healthier look. A better look for a bodybuilder.”
Arnold Schwarzenegger won the Olympia seven times, which is one behind the all-time mark. It is natural for questions to be asked about athletes from a different generation but according to Rogan, Schwarzenegger should remain enshrined as the best to ever do it — no matter what generation he competes.
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

2022 Mr. Big Evolution Pro Portugal Results

2022 Mr. Big Evolution Pro Portugal Results

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.

2022 Republic Of Texas Pro Results

2022 Republic Of Texas Pro Results

Nicolas Koeu wins Men’s Physique at the 2022 Republic of Texas Pro!
The 2022 Republic of Texas Pro gave Men’s Physique, Bikini, and Wellness competitors a chance to qualify for the biggest show of the year. On Saturday, the Fairmont Austin was the site of the event that saw Nicolas Koeu take home a gold medal in Men’s Physique.
Koeu will now have the chance to prepare to contend with some of the other elite competitors in the sport. He was part of the 2021 Olympia and finished 16th. Koeu had great success in this competition last year, finishing in the top three but was able to take the next step.
Erin Stern has competed three times in 2022 and finally earned a trip to the Olympia with this victory. She has a second-place finish during the Miami Muscle Beach Pro and fifth place at the New York Pro under her belt. Rounding out the winners was Isamara Santos earning a gold medal in Wellness.
The full results from the show have been announced. Below, checkout the full results and breakdown from the event, along with official score cards, from the weekend!
2022 Republic of Texas Pro: All Division Winners

Men’s Physique: Nicolas Koeu
Bikini: Erin Stern
Wellness: Isamara Santos

2022 Republic of Texas Pro Breakdown
Men’s Physique

First Place – Nicolas Koeu
Second Place – Jeremiah Maxey
Third Place – Joshua Dennison
Fourth Place – Javiohn Seymore
Fifth Place – Chidube Anene
Sixth Place – Rhyan Clark
Seventh Place – Winston Sullivan
Eighth Place – Frank Worley
Ninth Place – Diego Garcia
Tenth Place – Gary Cooper

Bikini

First Place – Erin Stern
Second Place – Jessica Wilson
Third Place – Shelby Pierce
Fourth Place – Malu Duarte
Fifth Place – Jordan Brannon
Sixth Place – Hope Harper
Seventh Place – Lauren Adams
Eighth Place – Carla Garthwaite
Ninth Place – Laura Ziv
Tenth Place – Adrianna Kaczmarek

Wellness

First Place – Isamara Santos
Second Place – Alejandra La Fonseca
Third Place – Diana Laura Verduzco
Fourth Place – Judian Winston
Fifth Place – Jenna de Manincor
Sixth Place – Rachel Lee
Seventh Place – Nicolette Burns
Eighth Place – Carie Bradshaw
Ninth Place – Madison Luna
Tenth Place – Mia Samuels-Menjivar

2022 Republic of Texas Pro Official Score Cards

Generation Iron wishes to congratulate all the great athletes who earned a win at the IFBB Republic of Texas Pro 2022. Make sure to check out our full IFBB Pro results page from this year and previous years right here to catch up on any action you may have missed!

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.

2022 Governors Cup Pro Results

2022 Governors Cup Pro Results

Karina Grau wins the 2022 Governors Cup Pro!
This weekend was a busy one around the sport of bodybuilding and that included a Figure show in Sacramento. Nine competitors from the division took the stage hoping to leave with a ticket to the Olympia. In the end, it was Karina Grau who stood out from the rest and took home the gold.
Grau took the stage for the first time this year in Sacramento after competing four times in 2021. Her best finish came when she finished as the runner-up during the Zhanna Rotar Classic Pro. Grau will now have a chance to make her mark on the biggest stage in the sport.
The full results from the event have been announced. The Figure division was the star of the show and the breakdown from the event, along with an official score card, can be found below!
2022 Governors Cup Pro Breakdown

First Place – Karina Grau
Second Place – Wendy Fortino
Third Place – Desiree Alferes
Fourth Place – Melissa Cech
Fifth Place – Dalila Alegria
Sixth Place – Danielle Rose
Seventh Place – Kim Clark
Eighth Place – Jessica Baltazar
Ninth Place – Annette Garcia

2022 Governors Cup Pro Official Score Card

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.

Bodybuilding Grandmother Begins Competing At 69 Years Old, Feels Better Than In Her 20s

Bodybuilding Grandmother Begins Competing At 69 Years Old, Feels Better Than In Her 20s

Renee Landers, mother and grandmother, began bodybuilding following back surgery.
Renee Landers, a mother and grandmother from Houston, got a new view on life following back surgery after the birth of her son. Now, Landers feels better at 70 years old than she did in her 20s thanks to her passion for fitness.
Prior to the birth of her son, Landers would run five or six miles a day. She suffered severe backspin following the birth of her only child and could not run. For 25 years, Landers struggled to do any physical activity because of the pain. That would all change when she went through a lower lumbar fusion surgery in October 2009.
Landers hired a personal trainer once she was recovered from surgery and began working out again. Now, Landers has taken her passion to the next step on stage.
“This is the fittest I have ever been and I look and feel better than I did when I was in my twenties,” Landers said.

Renee Landers and Her Bodybuilding Journey
In May 2021, Landers stepped on stage for the first time in a bodybuilding competition. At 69 years old, she was the oldest competitor by 20 years but she did not let this get in the way of her goal of becoming a bodybuilder. She finished sixth in the event and she remembers it as one of the best days of her life.
“It was a highlight in my life. After having my son and my grandchildren, it was the best day of my life.”
It was not easy for Landers to step on stage for the first time. Now that she was able to break the ice, Landers has competed in four shows since that magical day in May 2021. These competitions have spanned across Texas and California as she continues to stand next to competitors who are younger.
“I was terrified to put on a skimpy and sparkly bikini, as I was nearly 70 and at least 20 years older than the next oldest person there. But now I know that 70 and sexy can go together, as I’m living proof.”
Now 70 years old, Renee Landers is more motivated than ever to continue competing. She is living proof that age is truly just a number and it is all about how you feel.
“I am definitely not slowing down. This is my life and this is how I want to live. I can’t wait to compete again. I’m having a blast. I feel so fortunate to be doing this and I can’t believe I am 70.”
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

INBA Athlete Alex Hopkins Showcases 10-Week Bulk Transformation

INBA Athlete Alex Hopkins Showcases 10-Week Bulk Transformation

Image via Instagram @alexban3
INBA athlete Alex Hopkins shared a transformation picture on social media showcasing a 10-week 14-pound weight gain transformation. 
Bodybuilders often show transformation pictures of themselves after undergoing a brute cut or massive weight loss. However, bodybuilders spend ample time of their career in a bulking phase to put on as much mass as possible. International Natural Bodybuilding Association (INBA) athlete Alex Hopkins showcased a mass gain transformation photo on Instagram. 
In an Instagram post from March 1, 2021, Alex Hopkins reveals the power a bulking phase can have on improving your physique. Alex Hopkins went from weighing 216 pounds to 230 pounds in 10 weeks. 
You can see Alex Hopkin’s transformation below. 

Although his body fat is slightly higher at 230 than 216 pounds, it’s apparent he was able to put on good size and muscle too. 
INBA Pro/Am Southern USA
Fast forward to the 2022 INBA PNBA bodybuilding season; Hopkin’s now prepping for his pro debut after competing at the INBA Pro/Am Southern USA competition in Atlanta, Georgia on June 4th. Ban won the Men’s Bodybuilding Open division, clinching his pro card. He released a written statement on Instagram expressing his gratitude. Ban said:
“Words can’t describe what an incredible experience this was. A win in Open bodybuilding and a @inbapnbaglobal_official Pro Card!!!
Firstly I have to thank @mhopkins324 for her love, support, and patience without which none of this would be possible. You will always be the best wife, mother, and person in my life. 
Also a huge thank you to my coach Andrew who has made this dream a reality. It’s amazing how far we’ve come in 2 years working together and I can’t wait to see what the future holds!”
Although Alex Hopkin’s earned his pro card, he admits there’s more work to be done during the off-season as he uses the judge’s critique to prepare for his pro debut. In a social media post, Ban expressed,
“4 weeks post show. Training like crazy and really pushing the weights and volume. Diet is almost a reverse carb-cycling to maintain conditioning while pushing the calories where they are most needed. We’re going to be working harder than ever this off season ahead of my Pro debut!”
Cycling Between Bulking, Cutting, and Maintenance
It can take years of hard work and dedication cycling between bulking, maintenance, and cutting to sculpt a top-level bodybuilder’s physique. 
Though it may seem like bodybuilders are always in a cutting phase, given how lean they are when they walk on stage, bodybuilders spend a lot of time working on their physique each year(s) in a bulking phase to put on as much muscle mass possible. That’s because once bodybuilders get too low body fat during the season and contest prep, the amount of muscle they hold plays a crucial role in their performance at events. But, of course, the only way to obtain this level of muscle is to get into a caloric surplus and lift heavy weights with ample volume. 
Moreover, being in a severe caloric deficit for too long can harm your health and long-term gains. Top natural bodybuilding competitors take years of training smart and hard with a heavy focus on building muscle. 
Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for more INBA PNBA inspiration!