Tag: Bodybuilding
Cedric McMillan Details Stomach Issues Will Keep Him Out Of Arnold Classic
Cedric McMillan recently explained why he pulled out of the 2022 Arnold Classic.
News broke on Monday that Cedric McMillan was the latest to pull his name out of the 2022 Arnold Classic. There was not a reason released but the bodybuilder recently took the time to reveal that stomach issues will keep him off stage.
Milos Sarcev mentioned that McMillan would not appear on stage in Columbus. On Monday, McMillan decided to share a video on Instagram to give an update on his condition.
“Ever since I tried to compete at the Legion show in Nevada back in October. I’ve been having issues with my stomach. I can’t keep food down for some reason. It creates some stupid ass hiccups, I’m hiccupping all day long and for half the night and anytime I eat, or even drinking water. It comes back up, nothing wants to stay down.”
Cedric McMillan has dealt with some issues that has made his path difficult over the last two years. In 2020, McMillan suffered a broken collarbone and broken hand that forced him to miss the Olympia that year. This will be the second year in a row he will miss the Arnold Classic. In September, McMillan withdrew his name before appearing on the broadcast. He revealed that he contracted COVID-19 and this affected his heart.
McMillan continues to explain in his video that he felt the need to explain his situation because of other news being thrown out there. This has caused some messages from people close to him.
“I have been having some issues, for 4-weeks now. I got a couple of phone calls, and text messages from friends saying that they seen on the internet that something was wrong with me. So, of course, if it’s already on the internet, motherfuckers don’t know everything. They talking about what they think they know, what they heard. So I may as well, go on and explain this shit myself.
“Four weeks ago, I went to the doctor again, I’ve been going to the doctor throughout, but they recommended I shouldn’t try to do the show. Of course, I’m being stubborn. If I eat this food, and throw up half of it, at least that’s half. I can keep, you know just being an idiot. I did what they asked and went on a liquid diet. Eating fuckin soup and eating weight gaining shakes.”
Cedric McMillan will be present in Columbus during the Arnold Classic but will not compete. He will be part of the meet and greet for fans. This allows him to still interact with fans even though they will not be able to watch him compete. It will be interesting to see when the bodybuilder is able to make his return to the stage.
Arnold Classic Moments: How The Arnold Classic Stopped Ronnie Coleman From Quitting Bodybuilding
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ARNOLD CLASSIC MOMENTS – is a special video series looking back at the history of one of the biggest bodybuilding competitions in the world. Legendary bodybuilders tell their personal moments in the Arnold Classic and share the oral history of what makes this specific competition rise above the rest – making a lasting impression for years to come. Each new moment airs every Thursday.
Ronnie Coleman is one of the most legendary bodybuilders of all time. He is known as setting the impossible new standard for what a mass monster should look like and won eight Mr. Olympia titles over his entire career (a world record tied only with Lee Haney). But Ronnie Coleman wasn’t born a Mr. Olympia champion – he struggled and learned how to improve – landing low placings until he unlocked his true potential.
Part of these struggles involved a moment where he thought he would stop competing. The Arnold Classic changed all of that and led him on a path to the champion we know and love today.
In this installment of Arnold Classic Moments, Ronnie Coleman himself recounts a serious injury right before the Mr. Olympia… and the recovery that lasted months right up to the Arnold Classic. Landing low at competitions in between, such as the Iron Man competition, Ronnie believed that it was time for him to give up bodybuilding. Then he stepped onto the Arnold Classic stage and everything changed. Hear the full story from the man himself in the video above.
Berry De Mey Reveals The Industry Change That Brought Him Back To Bodybuilding
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After retiring from competing, Berry De Mey completely removed himself from the world of bodybuilding… until a big change brought him back.
These days, Berry De Mey is most notable as a coach and bodybuilding commentator/influencer compared to his prime competitive days. But his journey from competitive bodybuilder to coach is more complicated than most may know. In fact, De Mey had a period of his life where he left the bodybuilding world behind completely in favor of photography. What brought him back into the coach we know today? In our latest GI Exclusive interview, Berry De Mey details the key change in the bodybuilding industry that brought him back to the sport.
Berry De Mey’s journey through bodybuilding is more complicated than most know. Though today he stands tall as a successful coach, online bodybuilding commentator, and IFBB Pro Hall of Famer – his journey contained many ups and downs. After some time competing in the IFBB Pro league, De Mey left in favor of Vince McMahon’s ill-fated WBF league. That failed after a very short tenure. Luckily, De Mey was allowed back into the IFBB Pro league once WBF ended.
Berry De Mey then competed for a few more years before retiring from the sport. Upon retiring, De Mey did something atypical for most elite competitors – he left the world of bodybuilding completely. He enrolled into a college to focus on photography – and believed that this would be his new life path.
As we know today, he eventually returned to the world of bodybuilding and made a name for himself as a coach. What happened? After studying photography, Berry De Mey went to the FIBO expo in Europe. This was a fitness expo that was quickly growing into one of the largest in the world. De Mey noticed a very encouraging change in the bodybuilding industry at that expo. Based on its size and the kind of folks who were expressing interest, it became clear that bodybuilding had hit mainstream culture.
Berry De Mey realized that bodybuilding mentality entered the more general fitness world. And fitness as a whole became more popular globally. For De Mey, this was a key indication that he could make a true living in bodybuilding – but in a more healthy way than pro competing. He could start his own coaching business that not only caters to competitors but also “average folk” looking to become more fit and healthy.
This all circles back around to Berry De Mey’s more recent comments on pro bodybuilding as a whole. He believes that the competitive side has become too dangerous with increasingly bigger and stronger doses of PEDs being used. But as natural bodybuilding leagues and the wider general fitness community shows us – there is a way to achieve incredible sculpted physiques without endangering your health to that degree.
De Mey has spoken out about the many too-soon deaths that hit our sport over the past year and a half. He’s spoken out about his worry of how the most massive physiques are being rewarded – such as Big Ramy and Nick Walker. These comments all tie into why he got back into bodybuilding and coaching in the first place. He believes a bodybuilding lifestyle can be healthy and enjoyed by all.
You can watch Berry De Mey’s full comments in our latest GI Exclusive interview segment above!
How To Lose Your Love Handles
The Fastest Way To Lose The Love Handles
Love handles have to be one of the most dreaded types of body fats. T-shirt ripping love handles are guaranteed lady-repellent. You might know what we mean if you’ve ever had a girl grab you by your love handles while pillion riding with you on a bumpy road.
As soon as the woman of your dream gets hold of your squishy spare tire, it’s game over for you. Even though people have tried to get the flab in fashion by calling it love handles, it hasn’t worked. Love handles are still hate-handles for most people.
Forget Spot Reduction
The pinchable fat on both sides of your body is stubborn and can take longer to burn-off as compared to the belly fat. Some people make the mistake of trying to lose love handles by doing exercises like side bends.
The spot reduction concept is a myth and performing side-bends (especially with heavyweights) can do more harm than good. Spot reduction exercises can exacerbate the appearance of love handles by increasing the size of the underlying external oblique muscles.
If you want to reduce your love handles, take an overall approach which will include training the abdominal muscles (from multiple angles), cardiovascular training and a balanced diet.
Fix Your Diet
Most professionals agree with the saying “abs are made in the kitchen, not the gym.” If you want to get rid of your not-so-love handles – and want to keep them off – you should follow a customized diet plan.
You should get used to counting your calories and reading the labels before buying packaged stuff. Understanding the role of micro and macronutrients in your diet is an essential ingredient of following a healthy diet.
Remember – the best diet for losing your love handles is the one you can stick with for the long-term. Fun fact – the keg is often the last place on a man’s body from where he loses weight.
Workout
For shedding the excess body fat, we recommend performing two cardio sessions in a day. The first should be a 30-minute low-intensity steady state (LISS) workout to be done first thing in the morning – preferably on an empty stomach.
Do the high-intensity interval training (HIIT) session later in the evening for 10-15 minutes. When it comes to side-fat torching exercises – wood chops, medicine ball rotations, medicine ball slams are some of the most effective movements.
Chill-Out
If you want to live a fit lifestyle, you’ll need to get all the aspects of your life under control. Taking on too much stress can result in high cortisol levels which can lead to excess body fat storage.
To get rid of the bulging waistline, you should always be hydrated as some studies have shown that drinking water can help in burning calories. You also need to make sure you’re getting anywhere between 7-8 hours of sleep every night.
Without proper rest and recovery, you shouldn’t expect to lose weight. Overexerting and pushing yourself too hard will only result in weight gain – which is the polar opposite of what we’re trying to achieve here.
How often do you perform bodyweight workouts? Let us know in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook and Twitter.
Arely Ayala Is the First International Natural Bodybuilder to Sign a Multi-media Contract
Mexico’s Natural Olympia Bikini Angels champion Arely Ayala is the first international natural bodybuilder to sign a multi-media contract with Generation Iron, INBA PNBA, and Iron Man Magazine.
Reigning Mexico’s Natual Olympia 2021 Bikini Angels champion, Arely Ayala, has become the first international natural bodybuilder to sign a multi-media contract with Generation Iron, International Natural Bodybuilding Association (INBA)/Professional Natural Bodybuilding Association (PNBA), and Iron Man Magazine. Arely Ayala received a silver medal in the Bikini Divas category at the 2021 Natural Olympia. The INBA PNBA released a statement on social media expressing their appreciation. The INBA PNBA stated:
“Congratulations @arelyayala.hc of @inba_mexico The 1st International Athlete to sign a Multi-Media Contract with the
@inbapnbaglobal_official
@generationiron
@ironmanmagazine
Well deserved @arelyayala.hc
INBA PNBA Elite Natural Athletes will be recognized globally on authoritative platforms and as ICONS of the Natural Bodybuilding Industry.
@inbapnbaglobal_official Global Leaders in Natural Bodybuilding continue to create opportunity and outlets to “Serve The Elite Natural Athlete”
Arely Ayala voiced her gratitude, stating:
“Hi everyone, today is a very special day that I want to share with you. I have been selected to sign a multi-media contract with PNBA, Generation Iron, and Iron Man Magazine. This is a great opportunity for me and all the international athletes. I want to thank all the Kukos family – Denny, Denise, Dianne – and Mexico for trusting in me from the beginning. Let’s do it! Viva Mexico!”
Below is an IG clip of INBA PNBA’s complete statement and Arely Ayala signing the contract.
https://www.instagram.com/reel/CafzP6Wl0qr/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
Multi-media Contract Benefits
Signing a contract with these three companies comes with its benefits. You’ll have to be an INBA PNBA athlete in good standing with the league to be eligible for signing. Each natural athlete should be seeking professional growth and abide by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) guidelines. Competitors bound in the contract can expect to receive more spotlight. They’ll get promotions, brand building (digital media write-ups, social media posts, photoshoots), special guest appearances, posing, and seminar sessions. Also, athletes will receive Iron Man Magazine nutrition ads and endorsements.
According to the INBA PNBA, the contract is:
“An opportunity for a natural bodybuilding athlete to acquire renown and recognition in the sport of natural bodybuilding, exploiting association’s promotional campaign via the Iron Man Magazine, news and events, and the Generation Iron platform.”
Arely Ayala and Natural Bodybuilding
Arely Ayala started competing in bodybuilding in 2018 at Mr. Sonora, where she won the rookie fitness bikini championship. She collected her pro card in 2019 at the international event in California.
When Arely Ayala isn’t competing, she’s a health coach, teacher, and earning a doctorate in educational administration.
Arely Ayala competes in the Bikini Angels and Bikini Divas divisions. Although these divisions sound similar, they have some distinct differences. Bikini Divas scoring focuses more on muscularity and definition. However, contenders in the Bikini Angels category aren’t judged entirely on their body – personality and confidence are essential factors in the judging process.
Generation Iron congratulates Arely Ayala for signing her multi-media contract! We wish you good luck in the upcoming 2022 season!
Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for the latest INBA PNBA news!
Arnold Classic Moments: Rich Gaspari & The First Ever Arnold Classic Victory
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The moment Rich Gaspari won the first ever Arnold Classic.
ARNOLD CLASSIC MOMENTS – is a special video series commemorating the 30 year anniversary of one of the biggest bodybuilding competitions in the world. Legendary bodybuilders tell their personal moments in the Arnold Classic and share the oral history of what makes this specific competition rise above the rest – making a lasting impression for years to come. Each new moment airs every Thursday.
Rich Gaspari is a legendary name for many reasons. He landed in second place multiple years in the Mr. Olympia and is considered one of the top uncrowned champions in that competition. He started Gaspari Nutrition – which changed the game for supplements in bodybuilding.
He is also the first ever Arnold Classic champion – winning the original contest when he was only 25 years old. It’s a stellar accomplishment that can never be taken away from him and an integral part of the epic history of the Arnold Classic.
To this day and for that very reason – Rich Gaspari has been constantly involved with the Arnold Classic Ohio competition and expo. He has nurtured the Arnold Classic Amateur – a testament to his own historical underdog status and his keen ability to sniff out future champions before the rest of the pack. He has consistently been a presence in the Arnold Classic over the past three decades.
So to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Arnold Classic – Rich Gaspari retells in vivid detail the moments leading up to his unforgettable victory. Transporting us all back to a very different time and revealing intimate details that make for a fascinating story. Watch the full oral history of the first ever Arnold Classic win above.
Jim Stoppani: Protein Sources & Intermittent Fasting, Explained
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Jim Stoppani breaks down the pros and cons of different protein sources and evaluates intermittent fasting.
Not all protein is created equal. If you are a bodybuilder or athlete, you are most likely aware of the different protein supplement formulas that exist on the market. The key three being whey protein, casein protein, and beef protein. We turned to Jim Stoppani, an exercise physiologist to break down just when is the right time use each kind of protein. He also discusses how intermittent fasting works – and when it should be used. In our latest GI Exclusive, Jim Stoppani explains the pros and cons of each protein source and if the growing fad of intermittent fasting is legit.
In 2022, there are more supplement companies than ever before. What was once a niche market has exploded alongside the health boom. There are now thousands upon thousands of brands, product types, and formulas. How does someone know what to choose? This week, as we speak with Jim Stoppani, we focus primarily on protein powder. What is the right protein powder to take when looking to build muscle?
Whey Protein Powder vs Casein Protein Powder
Whey protein powder is surely the most popular protein supplement on the market today. But that doesn’t mean it should be your single choice of protein supplement. Jim Stoppani breaks down the difference between whey and casein protein – and how both can benefit you.
As Jim Stoppani explains it, casein protein powder use to get a bad wrap. This was because it breaks down in your body slower. Due to this, many would turn to whey protein powder instead. It gets into your blood faster – thus helps you build muscle faster for your workouts.
But as time and studies have grown – it has become clear that casein protein has its benefits for those looking to build muscle. Nothing has changed about the two protein sources per se. Instead, we have a better understanding of the human body and how it uses protein.
Jim Stoppani explains that the fast acting whey protein is both a blessing and a curse. It is generally accepted that whey protein leaves your blood stream within two hours. This is good in the short term. But modern science has also recommended that casein protein is a great addition to your supplementation as well.
Jim Stoppani breaks down how casein protein is like an onion. It has layers that take longer to break down into your body. This is good in the long term as your body recovers to build back muscle. This is why it’s best to have either a protein powder blend formula or to take your own combination of both whey and casein protein powder. In tandem, you get the best of both worlds for optimal results.
What about beef protein supplements?
Jim Stoppani also takes a look at beef protein powders. The first fact he wants to make clear – beef protein powder is not ground up meat. In fact, it’s collagen – beef cartilage. Why does this matter? Unlike whey or casein protein – beef protein does not provide an anabolic benefit for the body.
Does this mean you shouldn’t take beef protein? It’s certainly less in vogue than it once was. But of course, all protein sources still provide the core element of protein your body needs. Particularly when you are resting and sleeping for recovery. That being said, those who are looking to make real muscular gains on the level of a bodybuilder should likely turn towards the other options.
Intermittent fasting and bodybuilding
Jim Stoppani also touches upon intermittent fasting. This diet trend, which is defined by having short term periods of fasting, has become extremely popular over the past decade. But is it simply a long term fad? Or does it have real benefits for both health and weight loss?
Stoppani explains that intermittent fasting is essentially something we do naturally every day. When we sleep, we forego eating for at least six to eight hours. That’s fasting. But there are some great health benefits to be had if we extend that time period a bit longer.
Jim Stoppani details how we can simply add 2 hours to the front and back of our sleep schedule to ensure somewhere between 10 and 12 hours of not eating. This is a great tool for weight loss. However, Stoppani would not recommend such a diet to an active bodybuilder. This kind of fasting goes directly against the goal of building muscle. It puts you in such a deficit that muscle loss is inevitable. Essentially, you would be actively pulling back and forth and slowing down your muscle building goals unecessarily.
That doesn’t mean Jim Stoppani is against intermittent fasting completely. He understands why it’s such a popular weight loss diet. It’s effective and it’s user friendly. Other diets demand you “do the math” by counting calories or other nutrient values. It puts people in the position to constantly stress themselves out. “If I eat this cookie now, maybe I can skip dinner and then later have a light salad.” It’s these kinds of thoughts that make dieting hard.
Intermittent fasting makes things easy. Everything is a yes or no question. Are you currently fasting? Then don’t eat. Are you in your “open” period for eating? Then go ahead and have that cookie. Intermittent fasting allows for more leniency on what kinds of food you eat. Of course, Jim Stoppani further explains that doesn’t mean you can eat burgers and chocolate all day. But it’s certainly less strict than other diet options.
Wrap Up
Jim Stoppani has the knowledge and research to back up the reason behind why things work and others don’t. That’s why his explainers on both protein sources and intermittent fasting are so valuable. Understanding the why behind the how can help encourage motivation behind these tactics. Make sure to check out Stoppani’s full explainer in our latest GI Exclusive segment above.
Chris Bumstead Details 5,000-Calorie Bulking Diet
Classic Physique Olympia champ Chris Bumstead has entered the bulking phase of his preparation.
Chris Bumstead is officially in the bulking stage of his Olympia preparation. The event is scheduled to take place from Dec. 16-18 and will return to Las Vegas. The Classic Physique champion recently shared his bulking diet that totals around 5,000 calories per day.
Bumstead took to his YouTube page to share the video. He has won the previous three Classic Physique Olympia titles and is the competitor to beat in this division. After a battle with COVID-19 in December, Bumstead is back to gaining size and strength day in and day out.
Chris Bumstead was forced to take time off from the gym. This is when he lost around 28 pounds before returning to the gym. After a few weeks, Bumstead began training again and has put the size back on. He is currently 255 pounds and will continue to bulk as the year goes on.
Bumstead detailed his entire diet for fans to check out. The breakdown of his meals can be seen below.
Chris Bumstead Bulking Diet
Meal 1 – 1,344 Calories
Chris Bumstead mixes up his breakfast but in this particular video, he shared a recipe for a protein shake that he likes to consume in the morning twice a week.
70 grams oats
2 scoops Whey protein isolate
1 scoop fiber
19 grams almond butter
1.5 bagel
ghee butter
Meal 2 – 980 Calories
The second meal of the day is from a meal prep service called Mega Fit. Bumstead admits that he is not usually a fan of these services but it allowed him to prepare many meals at a time.
7 ounces steak
2 cups white rice
Meal 3 – 760 Calories
This is the pre-workout meal for Bumstead. It is similar to the second meal but substitutes chicken for steak. He explains that he feels chicken is easier to digest than steak so this is why he saves this one for before workouts.
6 ounces chicken breast
2 cups white rice
Meal 4 – 779 Calories
The sweet potatoes in this meal are consumed raw so they do not shrink while coking.
500 grams raw weight sweet potato
165 grams ground turkey
1 banana
Meal 5
Chris Bumstead downsizes the portions a bit in this meal but the make up is the same as meal four. This is a meal to balance out proteins and healthy fats. Bumstead explains that he likes to have carbs after workouts and he consumes fats towards the end of the day.
170 grams ground beef
300 grams sweet potato
half avocado
Meal 6
Bumstead ends his day with another shake. This one includes almond butter and Glutamine, which will improve digestion.
80 grams oats
32 grams almond butter
1 scoop Whey protein isolate
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
5 Essential Fats You Need For Your Bodybuilding Diet
Eat fat, build muscle.
To the uninitiated, the very mention of fat makes them think of burgers smothered in cheese, greasy French fries, and oil slicked pizza, but those aren’t the essential fats we’re talking fats. To the bodybuilder, the word fat can just as easily translate to foods included in their diet that can bring about great results if utilized correctly.
Fats can be your best friend if you choose the right ones. As we’ve mentioned before, there is a world of difference between the common way we use the word “fat” and dietary fats. With a stigma around fats for what they are and how they’re used, essential fats can provide energy and work for a host of benefits to aid in all things bodybuilding as you look to continue to work hard and shred.
You want to make sure that fats are not neglected in your diet for they help round out those macronutrients we all need. With the right balance of fats, protein, and carbs, you are well on your way to see those gains you want most. It just takes the right attention and proper care to best get those essential fats in your diet.
Let’s take a look at fat and see why essential fats, are, well, essential. We’ll talk the benefits of fats and which fats should absolutely be in your diet for what they can do for all areas of your gains.
Benefits Of Fats In Your Diet
The benefits of fat are undeniable and will make you reconsider if you don’t get enough in your body. Benefits of fats include:
Better energy: Fat can be converted into energy to give you that boost for your workout and everyday life to keep you moving more efficiently.
Enhance brain function: Fats increase the production and release of neurotransmitters to better support your brain function (1).
Increase nutrient absorption: An essential part of absorption, fats can ensure you get all those nutrients into your body to be used effectively (2).
Regulates body temperature and appetite: Fats can keep you full for longer and allow your body to find the right temperature to thrive at.
Protects organs and creates cells: Can provide a physical cushion for protection of our organs and has properties to create cells we need.
5 Essential Fats For Your Bodybuilding Diet
Let’s take a look at 5 essential fats for your bodybuilding diet that will absolutely help you with everything you need. By putting these into routine, you will better prepare yourself to handle all of those nutrient goals you seek.
Fish Oil
Filled with essential omega-3 fatty acids, fish oil is a great fat that any athlete should have in their dietary plan. Fish oil supplements can help prevent muscle breakdown, are great for joint health, and does wonders for brain functionality. It’s an anti-inflammatory gem and a fat you should absolutely consider (3). Check out our list of the Best Omega-3 Supplements for some awesome products that will seriously work wonders for you.
Avocados
This natural fat sourced food is great for a bodybuilder for a variety of reasons. If you wish to clean bulk, this food provides a high calorie count while at the same time offering monounsaturated fats that can prevent fat redistribution to the midsection (4). You can bulk up while at the same time keeping your abs ripped and shredded. Perfect to add to toast, eggs, or alongside a lean meat, this is a versatile and convenient fat food that is nothing but great for you.
Related: Your Guide To Healthy Fats & What To Avoid For Gains
Salmon
The king of fish, Salmon is a great food for bodybuilders. The fish is filled with a variety of beneficial nutrients. It contains omega-3 fatty acids and also provides a great amount of protein. The omega-3 fatty acids prevent muscle protein breakdown while at the same time providing the protein needed to build muscle. Conducive to most diets, salmon is that go to fish for bodybuilders because it is easy to cook and tasty to eat. It goes well with a variety of other foods and is most certainly one of those to not take for granted.
Nuts
Nuts are a great fat to have in your diet plan. They help to maintain your blood sugar levels, which in turn transforms into energy and alertness. Walnuts in particular contain omega-3 fatty acids (can you see the trend yet), but others nuts like almonds, cashews, and peanuts, among many others, are just as great of options (5). Along the lines of nuts are those nut butters which are nice sources of fat as well and give you an alternative to the traditional peanut butter. Nuts make for a great snacks through the day that can boost your energy levels. Moderation is key but they are versatile and convenient as well to get those fats into your body.
Olive Oil
Another oil that’s beneficial is olive oil, especially of the extra virgin variety. Olive oil is loaded with monounsaturated fats which is great for heart health and offers a healthy oil option (6). Not only that, but it also helps prevent muscle breakdown as well. Perfect for cooking or adding with something like balsamic for that salad dressing, olive oil is a great ingredient to have for a variety of things in your diet.
Wrap Up
We cannot take essential fats for granted in our bodies and by putting an emphasis on them, we can better tackle all of those important bodybuilding and dietary goals we need to most. With the right approach to nutrition, making sure we balance out our macronutrients is incredibly important. With the right essential fats in your diet, you will be well on your way to seeing only the best gains possible.
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
Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine (2021). “Fat cells found to play a central role in cognitive decline and neurodegeneration”. (source)
Goodman, B. (2010). “Insights into digestion and absorption of major nutrients in humans”. (source)
Calder, P. (2017). “Omega-3 fatty acids and inflammatory processes: from molecules to man”. (source)
Duarte, P.; et al. (2016). “Avocado: Characteristics, health benefits and uses”. (source)
Ros, E. (2010). “Health Benefits of Nut Consumption”. (source)
Guasch-Ferre, M.; et al. (2014). “Olive oil intake and risk of cardiovascular disease and mortality in the PREDIMED Study”. (source)
15 Reasons Why People Hate Working Out
Reasons Why People Hate The Gym
There are two types of people, the ones who love working out and the others who hate the idea of it. There is no middle ground. You might love to train but at the same time, your parents might not understand why you waste your time and money on such a useless (according to them) thing.
We think we have figured out why people have such extreme feelings about hitting the gym. Our goal with this article is not to shame anyone. We want to shed light on facts so that people can be more accommodating.
All-in or Nothing
You’re either living the fit lifestyle or you’re not. Knowing the fact that you won’t see the desired results if you follow a training program for 4 days a week and do as you please on the other 3 days is a deal-breaker for many people.
Not Being Able To Change Your Body image
For many people, their happiness and self-worth are directly related to their body image. They sulk if they can’t get the results or arbitrary factors like the number on the scale to go in their favor.
People Who Lift Do So To Show-Off
It’s no secret that lifters are thought to be self-obsessed narcissists. Many people never get a gym membership just because they want to avoid the tag. They don’t want to be judged by how much they can bench.
Forever Dieting
Following a balanced diet is one of the most crucial aspects of a successful transformation but it can be hard and boring. The idea of eating the same food every day isn’t appealing to everyone.
It Never Stops
Once you hop on to the fitness bandwagon, all your decisions will be influenced by it. You might have to cancel going out with friends or family because of your workouts, and the gym might be the first thing you look for while you’re planning a vacation.
Too Many Fads To Keep Count Off
There are indeed many fads in the fitness industry and they go away as fast as they come. Learning about new diets, training principles, and supplements every few weeks is too much for some people.
Workouts Are Intense
Out of all the people who get a gym membership, a big number quits within a year because they can’t see the desired results. A transformation needs much more than walking on the treadmill for 20 minutes and it’s too much to ask off many people.
Supplements Are Sh*t Expensive
There is a myth that you can’t build muscle mass without supplements. Some people avoid supplements because they are out of their budget and others think that they do more harm than good.
Who Needs Injuries?
Training is one of the most intense sports and the probabilities of an injury increase four-fold when you’re around the unforgiving iron. Some people would rather sit on their couch all day long than be crushed under a barbell.
Aesthetics Are Everything
Many people diss working out because they think it’s all about looking good naked. Some of these people advocate working on mental and spiritual well-being instead of the gluteus maximus.
Always Be Critiquing
As the great Joe Weider once said, “Looking at himself, a serious bodybuilder isn’t admiring, he’s looking for trouble. And he sees trouble, every time.” There is a thin line between self-critiquing and self-loathing and as a fitness enthusiast, you always have to mind your step.
Comparing Your Physique To Everyone
As you start training, sooner or later, you’ll find yourself comparing your muscles to people in your gym – or that guy on Instagram. Once this happens, it all goes downhill from here.
Solo Sport
Many people join a sport because they like to be around people and want to be part of a team. Bodybuilding, on the other hand, is one man’s game and is arguably the most selfish sport.
The Need To Find A Cult
After people get a gym membership, they soon start finding a cult to join. They are torn between loving or hating the squats, being a carnivore or a vegan, bodybuilding or CrossFit, keto or paleo, etc.
Acute Self-Loathing That Comes With Missing A Workout
No matter who you are, where you’re from, what you do – if you’re living the fit life, you’ll have faced the agony that comes with missing a workout. The struggle of making up for a missed workout in the next session is real.
How often do you workout? Let us know in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook and Twitter.