Tag: Bodybuilding
These Tom Platz Videos Will Pump You Up for Your Next Leg Workout
Tom Platz – The King of Quads
Tom Platz arguably had the most insane legs of all time (and still does based off recent video footage!). If this name doesn’t ring a bell for you, you have been missing out on something great all your life. Platz is a golden-era bodybuilder and stepped on the Mr. Olympia stage along with Arnold Schwarzenegger.
Tom’s legs got the way they were because of his insane workouts. We’re sure you might have seen hundreds, if not more, workout videos, but you’ll never have seen anything like the Tom Platz leg workouts.
If you’re one of those people who despise leg days and can’t find the motivation to train your wheels, watching a Tom Platz training video before hitting your legs can be the motivation you so badly need.
[embedded content]
Tom Platz loved squatting and swore by the exercise. He considered squats to be the best leg exercise and relied heavily on them in his leg workouts. After squats, he preferred hack squats and sissy hack squats.
Many of us mortals might get light headed just thinking about the volume of squats he performed. All of us can learn a lot about squatting and having a better form by following Platz’s principles.
How Many Can You Do?
[embedded content]
We’re sure you might be doing leg extensions and leg curls in your workouts, but have you ever done these exercises the way Platz does them? Chances are, Tom Platz is the only person who does them the way he does and that’s why he has the legs he has.
In your next leg workout, get yourself a spotter, but instead of asking him for support, tell him to add resistance to your reps. Adding external resistance to the weights will fill your muscles with blood and lactic acid, giving you a gorging pump.
Taking it to the Extreme
[embedded content]
Tom Platz has a very different view about training than many of his peers. Listen to him talk and you’ll realize he’s all about hitting failure with every set. There is nothing called overtraining in his dictionary.
At the same time, in his bodybuilding days, Platz’s leg workouts were so intense that he only trained his legs twice a month. Tom’s range of motion while performing his exercises is something we all can learn.
Platz – The Trainer
[embedded content]
You can take a bodybuilder of out bodybuilding, but you can’t take the bodybuilding out of a bodybuilder. Tom Platz now spends his time training people and we can all access his infinite bodybuilding wisdom through these videos.
Before a workout, you never know how many reps Platz is going to do or how many reps he’s going to make his trainees do. He’s all about going until the body can’t take any more. Platz didn’t believe in making his workouts look beautiful. Tom believed if he made his exercises look nasty, his wheels would turn out nasty as well. He was right!
Some Squatting Tips to Take Away
[embedded content]
Always keep your back straight while squatting. Don’t bend forward as it puts more tension on your lower back and glutes and recruits less of your quads. Squeeze and keeps your quads tight throughout the exercise.
While squatting, make your nose your pivot point. Your nose should go straight down perpendicular to the ground as you squat. It should be like jumping straight into a swimming pool. If your nose looks like you’re diving into the pool, you’re doing it wrong.
To wrap things up, look at this video of Tom Platz doing 23 reps with 525lbs on the bar. Platz has a smile on his face all throughout the set. This shows how much he loves what he does. Before we part, always remember, you’ve got five more left in you.
[embedded content]
Who has the best legs in the bodybuilding industry in your opinion? Let us know in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook and Twitter.
*Header image courtesy of Tom Platz YouTube.
5 Exercises To Build Horseshoe Triceps
5 Exercises To Build Horseshoe Triceps
If your goal is to build sleeve-splitting arms, you can’t overlook your triceps. Most people make the mistake of going too hard on their biceps but skip training their triceps. Your arm development can never be complete without some ripped triceps.
Your triceps have three heads; long, lateral and medial. You need to be training them from all the angles to ensure an overall development. A combination of isolation and compound exercises is the most effective way of building horseshoe triceps.
1. Cable Pushdowns – 3 Sets 15 Reps
Cables are a great way to maintain a constant tension on your target muscle throughout the movement. While using the cables, you have the same amount of tension on your triceps at the top of the movement as you have on the bottom.
Stand at an arm’s length from the pulley machine. Attach a straight bar to the pulley and grab it with an overhand grip with your thumbs over the bar. Keep your elbows pinned to your side and hold and squeeze your triceps at the bottom of the movement.
2. Skull Crushers – 3 Sets 12 Reps
Skull crushers are an incredibly effective exercise when it comes to building ripped triceps. This exercise is also known as head smackers. Skull crushers train the long head of your triceps. The long head is also the hardest part to develop as only a few exercise can target it optimally.
You can use a straight bar or an EZ bar for this exercise. Make sure you have a complete range of motion while performing this exercise. Keep your elbows fixed at a single position, hold and squeeze your triceps at the top of the movement.
3. Smith Machine Close Grip Bench Press – 3 Sets 12 Reps
Smith machine close grip bench press works on the medial and lateral heads of your triceps. Using a Smith machine adds tension to your triceps while performing this exercise. Performing exercises with a complete range of motion are the secret to building horseshoe triceps.
Keep your elbows pinned to your sides throughout the movement. If you don’t have an access to a smith machine in your gym, you can perform the close grip bench press on a flat bench.
4. Cable Overhead Rope Tricep Press – 3 Sets 15 Reps
Ropes can target your triceps from a completely new angle. Overhead presses train the long head of your triceps. Keep your elbows pinned to the side of your head throughout the movement.
Keep the ropes together at the bottom of the movement, spread them out at the top and squeeze your triceps. Make sure you’re not using momentum while performing this exercise. Use moderate weights so you can handle and keep your reps slow and deliberate.
5. Dips – 3 Sets 15 Reps
By this point, your triceps will be completely exhausted. Dips can be a complete triceps buster and are a great exercise if you want shredded triceps. You can perform this exercise on parallel dip bars or on a flat bench.
If bodyweight version of this exercise is too easy for you, you can add extra resistance by using weights. Follow an explosive motion while performing this exercise. Hold and squeeze your triceps at the top of the movement.
Which is your favorite triceps exercise? Let us know in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook and Twitter.
*Header image courtesy of Envato Elements.
MTS Nutrition Outright Bar Review For A Whole Food Protein Bar
See how this protein bar stacks up with others on the market.
Product Overview
When looking for a great protein bar, it can be hard to find the right one. So many are just basically candy bars and for a supplement that should help you, the risk of hurting you is so much greater. A protein bar should never replace a meal unless you absolutely need it to, and sometimes we are just too busy. While we’ve shared in the past some great protein bar options, we wanted to share one that was not so good so you can compare and make the decision for yourself. MTS Nutrition Outright Bar claims to be a quality protein bar, but just how effective is it?
A top tier protein bar will be packed with protein so you can assist with your muscle building goals, as well as staying full. The right one will also contain plenty of fiber and little to no sugar, for this is a real gains killer. Convenient and affordable is the name of the game and Outright Bar just doesn’t quite fit into our criteria.
MTS Nutrition Outright Bar contains real ingredients with whey protein and a good protein bar taste.
MTS Nutrition is a company seeking to make good quality supplements for their consumers to promote better health and fitness, as well as great gains. With a focus on quality control and transparency, they aim to stand out in the sports supplement industry as an honest company. With products ranging from all kinds of supplements, this protein bar was created to promote better health and wellness. With advanced formulas and ingredients, they hope this comes through with their products.
MTS Nutrition Outright Bar Highlights
MTS Nutrition claims this bar is outright delicious and outright real. Made with whole foods, the main ingredient in here is the whey isolate used by their own protein powder called MTS Machine Whey. So, this bar is dependent on the quality of their whey protein which in our review shows it doesn’t add up to par with others on the market. With 15g of protein, 26 grams of real carbs, and 12 grams of fat, this bar has a decent ratio of macronutrients and does stack up with others in this regard. The amount of flavors is immense and begs the question as to just how natural this bar can be if the variety in flavors is so high.
Ingredients
Whey Protein Isolate: A more filtered form of whey, this isolates out the protein so you get majority protein and reduced carbs and fats. This will help with muscle growth, recovery, and work to keep you full while aiding in those weight loss goals (1).
Rolled Oats: Have antioxidant effects and are a great source of carbs that may in fact help lower cholesterol (2).
Peanut Butter: A nice source of fats, this can reduce appetite, increase energy levels, and provide for a nice ingredient especially for bodybuilders on a mission.
Honey: A good source of antioxidants, this can also help with digestive issues (3).
Other Ingredients
Natural flavors, Extra ingredients depend on specific flavors
Calories
280
Protein
15g
Carbs
26g
Fat
12g
Sugar
17g
Price, Flavors & Ingredients
MTS Nutrition Outright Bar is a decent protein bar designed to fill you up and help you see those gains you want but is higher in sugar and carbs than those top tier bars we love. At $30 for 12 bars, each bar is $2.50. There is an option to buy one bar for $2.99 as well, although we feel that is high for the overall quality.
With this bar, there are tons of flavors. They include:
Peanut Butter Oatmeal Chocolate Chip
Peanut Butter Oatmeal Raisin
White Chocolate Cranberry Peanut Butter
Butterscotch Peanut Butter
Chocolate Chip (Almond Butter)
Banana Walnut Peanut Butter
Toffee Peanut Butter
S’mores Peanut Butter
Cookies & Cream Peanut Butter
Oatmeal Raisin Almond Butter
Vegan Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter
Vegan Banana Walnut Peanut Butter
Oatmeal Raisin Almond Butter
Vegan Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter
Vegan Banana Walnut Peanut Butter
Chocolate Dough Peanut Butter
Cashew Butter Cinnamon Sugar Donut
Peanut Butter Variety Pack
Peanut Butter Mochaccino White Chocolate Chip
Peanut Butter CRISP White Chocolate Chip
Peanut Butter Apple Cinnamon
Peanut Butter Pumpkin Pie
Peanut Butter Peppermint Cookies& Cream
Peanut Butter Gingerbread
Sunflower Seed Butter Chocolate Chip
Peanut Butter Mint Cookies & Cream
Pros
Does contain whey isolate to give you some protein
Decent flavor options
Cons
Price doesn’t match quality
High in sugar compared to some of the top bars on the market
Price: $30.00
Check out our list of the Best Protein Bars for the best protein bar options around!
Overall Value
MTS Nutrition Outright Bar is one of those protein bars that claims to be a top supplement. But it really feels average to us. Compared to some others on the market, it just doesn’t hit the mark that we aim for when recommending products. But we wanted to at least share so you can compare, have options, and make the choice for yourself. What you are really getting is an average protein bar with decent ingredients and an overwhelming number of flavors to choose from. Check out MTS Nutrition Outright Bar and compare with others to find the right one for you.
Try MTS Nutrition Outright Bar Today
Generation Iron may receive commissions on purchases made through our links. See our disclosure page for more information.
Let us know what you think in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
*Images courtesy of MTS Nutrition and Envato
References
Cooke, M. et al. (2010). “Whey protein isolate attenuates strength decline after eccentrically-induced muscle damage in healthy individuals”. (source)
Grundy, M.; et al. (2018). “Processing of oat: the impact on oat’s cholesterol lowering effect”. (source)
Samarghandian, S.; et al. (2017). “Honey and Health: A Review of Recent Clinical Research”. (source)
Why WADA is the Superior Drug Test for Natural Bodybuilding
WADA drug testing is superior to other drug testing protocols.
Most athletes have a drug testing procedure they must follow. However, bodybuilding is a sport that drug testing is not a priority in many leagues—for example, the International Federation of BodyBuilding and Fitness (IFBB). Still, most federations don’t condone doping. However, they don’t go about testing for it either.
Natural bodybuilding is a different story, though. Competitors in natural bodybuilding are required to a drug test. That’s what makes the sport “natural,” after all. With that being said, not all natural bodybuilding leagues use the same drug-testing laboratory. However, one natural bodybuilding league utilizes the best drug testing equipment available – World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). And this league is the largest natural bodybuilding league in the industry – the International Natural Bodybuilding Association/Professional Natural Bodybuilding Association (PNBA).
WADA is Superior
There are many different types of drug testing in the sport of natural bodybuilding, but other natural bodybuilding leagues don’t use WADA. For example, the United States Bodybuilding Federation (USBF) uses a different metric. The INBA/PNBA stated, “These other so-called natural federations/organizations are doing the athletes and the industry a huge disservice by misleading athletes into believing they are being tested based on their own protocols. Polygraph, Redwood Toxicology, and Quest Diagnostics in no way have the capability to do so.”
The problem with such tests – polygraph, Redwood Toxicology, Quest Diagnostics, etc. – is that many PEDs go undetected. The sad part is that some athletes claim to be completely unaware that the substances they’re using are banned from natural bodybuilding. Of course, this gives athletes an unfair advantage in the sport, even if it’s unintentional. For example, Jill Kolivoski, the professional Women’s Bodybuilding champ at 2021 Natural Olympia, recently failed a drug test administered at Natural Olympia.
However, the substance that caused her to fail the drug test – Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators (SARMs) – passed the USBF drug testing procedure. Furthermore, this substance was in a natural herbal supplement she was using to lower her cortisol, proving the accuracy of the lab INBA/PNBA uses compared to other natural bodybuilding leagues.
Natural Bodybuilding and Testing
To compete in natural bodybuilding, you must be natural and abstain from steroids and PEDs. The INBA/PNBA league especially has its athletes tested through the WADA. They have a list of banned substances all athletes are prohibited from using unless they want to be stripped from their prize money, title and banned from competing.
Not only is WADA used by the most reputable natural athletes and most respected natural bodybuilding league, but it’s also the testing other professional athletes’ use, including the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
INBA/PNBA Disparity from Other Natural Bodybuilding Leagues
According to the INBA/PNBA commission, “Natural organizations claim to drug test, and some use a 10-15min polygraph test and or substandard testing labs (employment testing labs) but where is the transparency when an athlete does fail a test?” The INBA/PNBA also claims that other leagues failed drug tests go under the radar. However, the INBA/PNBA league makes the athlete public information via the Hall of Shame. The INBA/PNBA questions why other “natural” bodybuilding leagues don’t follow suit. Instead of dodging the truth.
Below is a clip from Generation Iron: Natty 4 Life, detailing the WADA protocols INBA/PNBA athletes undergo.
[embedded content]
WADA is the superior drug testing mechanism for natural bodybuilding athletes. INBA/PNBA set the bar high for drug testing. Still, hopefully, other natural bodybuilding leagues will follow in their footsteps. If they want the same respect and recognition, they’ll have no other choice.
Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for more information about natural bodybuilding!
Cedric McMillan Reveals New Details On His Near-Death Experience & Heart Issues
[embedded content]
Cedric McMillan opens up with new details on his heart issues, developing pneumonia, long COVID, and being put on life support.
Earlier in November, Cedric McMillan performed a guest posing and also provided an update on his rocky bodybuilding season. It turned out, he revealed, that he was dealing with breathing and heart issues likely caused by contracting COVID-19 in the previous year. With cases rising across the world at a rapid pace due to Omicron, Generation Iron decided to sit down with McMillan and talk in further detail about his experience with the virus and his near death experience in the hospital. In our latest GI Exclusive, Cedric McMillan goes into full detail about contracting COVID-19, developing pneumonia, and being put on life support.
For a short period of time in 2021, fans were confused as to what was happening with Cedric McMillan. After much delay he was set to compete at the Legion Sports Fest Pro 2021, only for him to disappear after the pre-judging and not show up at the finals. There was silence and mystery for a few weeks. Then suddenly McMillan reappeared during a guest posing and revealed a series of medical issues that threw off his bodybuilding season.
It turned out that Cedric McMillan had developed COVID-19 in 2020 right after the Arnold Classic. He recovered. He was fine. But many months later he started having trouble breathing. This breathing issue eventually took him to the hospital – where he found out he had pneumonia. Shortly after he found himself on life support in the hospital. “I was almost dead.” He stated during his guest posing speech.
Now with more time to recover and reflect on the entire experience, Generation Iron Brasil’s Aretha Luz at down with Cedric McMillan to get an in-depth account of the entire experience. McMillan opened up with complete honesty about the slow building of events that eventually left him intubated and on life support.
Cedric McMillan was noticing shortness of breath for quite some time. As early as May or July of 2021. But McMillan attributed this to his massive size. He was over 300 pounds and as any pro bodybuilder would attest – it puts some strain on cardio and breathing. But then the symptoms didn’t subside. For weeks and weeks his breathing became worse. Eventually he knew that he had to seek medical advice. Upon going to the doctors, it was discovered his heart rate was dangerously low. He was rushed to the hospital.
It was at this point that the doctors drew a connection between his current medical issues and COVID-19. They asked McMillan if he had COVID-19. Cedric McMillan confirmed that much earlier in 2020 he had gotten the virus. But was fine after recovering. The doctors informed him he now has pneumonia. And while it can’t be confirmed with 100% accuracy, it was likely that his lung were very slowly building up with fluid for months after having the virus.
After spending a few days in the hospital and still struggling to breath, Cedric McMillan grew impatient. He wanted to leave. He felt that he was not in immediate life or death danger. He jokes that he stood up and pulled off the wires from his body, “like a movie.” The doctors tried to stop him. Before he knew it. He was sedated and woke up three days later.
It turns out shortly after being sedated, his condition grew worse. He was put on a ventilator and life support. The hospital called his family as they were concerned that there was a likely chance that Cedric McMillan would die. Luckily, this was not the case
Cedric McMillan is now recovered. After leaving the hospital, he took some time to recoup, and after some false starts, he finally felt healthy enough to step back on stage. This was when he decided to guest pose at the Armed Forces Nationals 2021.
Cedric McMillan realized that he needed time to recover after such an ordeal. Now that he’s taken that time, he feels prepared to compete at the Arnold Classic 2022 in March and then shortly after compete in the Arnold Classic South America. McMillan’s plans were derailed in 2021. But the pro bodybuilder has always been a focused competitor hungry for victory. Perhaps 2022 will be a true comeback for the much hyped athlete.
You can watch Cedric McMillan go into full detail about his entire near-death experience in our latest GI Exclusive interview segment above.
Best Workout Plan Approach After Returning From A Long Layoff
The best workout plan approach after taking some serious time off.
So, it’s been a while since you have worked out. Things got busy. We get it. But now it’s time to hop back on that plan and see those gains you want most. But where to start. Taking time off has unfortunately limited how much you can lift, how fast you can run, and how much power you can actually generate, but fear not, for the right workout plan approach can get you back on track in no time.
Knowing what to do and how best to tackle this problem is important for jumping into it the wrong way can lead to injury and keep you out of the gym for much longer than need be. But there is no point in beating yourself up. You have come to the right place and we’ll put out an idea that will help get you back in the gym, working hard, and seeing those gains return in no time.
Let’s jump into a workout plan approach for those returning from a long layoff. Knowing what to do, and what not to do, will be important as you look to get those gains going again.
What To Prepare For
Unfortunately, your strength and cardio will have decreased slightly so be prepared to not lift as much or have the same endurance. But in due time that will return. Soreness and those stiff mornings are bound to happen as well but using a foam roller, stretching techniques, and the right supplements will help get you back on track easily.
How To Structure Your Workout Plan & What To Expect
At First…
Start light and reacquaint yourself with those movements. Some big lifts like the squat and deadlift will come back easily and with lighter weight you can focus on form and rebuild that lost mind-muscle connection (1). Definitely put an emphasis on stretching and loosening up the joints that need it most like your hips and shoulders. Tools like foam rollers and massage guns can work wonders for you here.
When it comes to cardio, start light and build up that base again. The treadmill, elliptical, and bike are good ways to do this. Throw in some incline walking as well.
As Things Start Getting Going…
Slowly increase the weight as well as increasing your intensity. Your body will start getting back to where you stopped and you will start to tackle those exercises more and more. While you won’t be at PR shape, you are getting closer. Heavier loads with lighter reps will work well, and you can start pushing yourself to failure (2).
Ramping Up…
You can start going even heavier and can add some isolation exercises in there to focus on those spots you want to. Here is where sleep and hydration are key as you are pushing your body even more with intensity. For those cardio based workouts, HIIT workouts can be great to get your heart rate going, start to burn more calories, and increase strength at the same time (3).
Once You Feel Ready…
You should be back to normal training. Hitting those same reps as before and feeling good about your progress will start to return and you may even try some one or two rep maxes. Be sure to put an emphasis on nutrition and make sure you are using those supplements wisely. Your body is now going through the ringer and keeping it fueled for every workout will work wonders for you.
What Not To Do
Don’t start lifting heavy right away. This will only lead to unnecessary soreness and even injury. This applies to both lifting and cardio, for you need to get your body back to where it was before your layoff. Getting your body acclimated to those heavy loads and intense cardio takes times so be patient
Don’t neglect a good pre- and post-workout stretching routine. To start, focusing on flexibility and mobility work will better prepare you as those lifts start getting even heavier. Don’t build up strength again only to be limited by tight hips or other joints (4). To alleviate pain as well, looking into knee sleeves, elbow sleeves, or wrist wraps can help take some load off, allow you to lift a little more weight, and focus on form to rebuild that strength you want most.
Best Supplements When Returning From A Layoff
A solid supplementation routine is in order for those returning from a long layoff, as this will kickstart your gains and keep you grinding for much longer by putting an emphasis on health and wellness. To start, a protein powder is a must have on your shelf as this will work to increase muscle growth, enhance recovery, and allow you to better manage your weight, and even lose some. If you need a great a protein powder, look no further than Enhanced Whey Protein Isolate for those clean gains.
On top of those supplements to build muscle and aid in all things growth, those products to assist with health and wellness needs should be a must have as well. Fish oil can provide you with powerful omega-3 fatty acids that provide for a host of benefits to bodily functions. Enhanced Omega-3 Fish Oil is a great product, as well as their Health 3-In-1 to boost immunity, and aid in your digestive health.
Wrap Up
Getting back in the gym can be hard after a long layoff, but the right approach with your workout plan will make your return seem easy. While at first it may be a bit discouraging, that comes with the territory, and you will slowly start to rebuild that strength you want to see most. Having the best supplements to tag team alongside a great workout will work wonders for you and soon enough, you’ll be back on track and seeing those gains you want most again.
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
Calatayud, J.; et al. (2016). “Importance of mind-muscle connection during progressive resistance training”. (source)
Mangine, G.; et al. (2015). “The effect of training volume and intensity on improvements in muscular strength and size in resistance-trained men”. (source)
P.; et al. (2002). “The scientific basis for high-intensity interval training: optimizing training programmes and maximizing performance in highly trained endurance athletes”. (source)
Haley, J. “The Importance of Flexibility and Mobility”. (source)
How To Tell If Your Protein Powder Is Fake
How To Tell If You’re Getting Phony Protein Powder
Most things with good sales records are vulnerable to be sold on the black market. Our beloved protein supplements are no different. There have been numerous instances where duplicate protein powders were being sold in through underground channels.
You’re more prone to fake supplements if you live in developing countries where most of the supplements are imported from countries like USA and Canada. Consuming fake supplements for prolonged periods can have a negative impact on your body.
There is a probability you’ve been using fake supplements for a long time without knowing it. If you’ve just started using protein powders, chances are you won’t know what they should be like. This is the complete guide to know if your protein powder is fake.
1. Solubility
Fake supplements aren’t there to improve your muscle mass, they focus on making the smugglers rich. These smugglers use the cheapest materials to make the protein supplements which leads to hard insoluble powders.
If you’ve ever used a genuine protein supplement, you would know how easy it is to dissolve in water. Fake protein supplements are the opposite of this. You won’t be able to mix fake protein powder in water with a spoon. You will need a blender bottle and some hard shakes of the wrist to dissolve the powder in the water.
2. Texture
If you’ve ever seen a protein supplement before this point, you know the powder has a constant texture. This might not be the case with fake supplements. You can expect to find irregularities in the powder.
These irregularities can be anything from vitamin powders to crushed chalk. It is recommended you buy supplements which have a unique flavor. Flavors like chocolate and vanilla are the most common to be tampered with.
3. Taste
When you tamper with the ingredients of a supplement, it will surely affect its taste. The best way to check if a protein is fake or not is to check its taste. If you know someone who is using the same protein powder, exchange one serving with them.
This taste test will be enough to reveal if you have the real thing. Fake protein supplements are also known to have a pungent smell and leave a bad aftertaste in your mouth. Also, check if your supplement has the same taste throughout. If the taste is changing after every serving, you have a fake supplement.
4. Side Effects
Since fake supplements have cheaper ingredients or substitute elements, they can have a negative effect on your body. If you see any ill effects on your body after switching to a new supplement, it’s a sign of a fake protein powder.
The most common side effects of fake supplements are the formation of acne and marks on your back and arms, and hair fall. Stop using the supplements when any of these signs start appearing.
5. Packaging
The product packaging of these fake supplements can be the biggest giveaway. Smugglers might use a substandard quality of jars or labels to save cost. If you have seen the original packaging, you would be able to tell the difference without a problem.
There are some cases where these crooks use the disposed and intact boxes of supplement to repackage their fake supplements. It can be hard in such situations to tell the difference between the real and the fake. It is always advised to crush your containers after you’re done using them to prevent piracy.
Have you ever used a fake supplement? Let us know in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook and Twitter.
*Header image courtesy of Envato Elements.
William Long Becomes the First Natural Athlete to Sign Multi-Media Contract in the Sport of Natural Bodybuilding
INBA/PNBA 3x Natural Olympia champ William Long signs a multi-media contract with Generation Iron, INBA/PNBA, and Iron Man Magazine.
Athletes want to be recognized for their hard work and dedication in all sports. And the sport of natural bodybuilding is no different. However, with the agreement between an International Natural Bodybuilding Association (INBA)/Professional Natural Bodybuilding Association (PNBA) competitor and authoritative media and natural bodybuilding companies, the time for accelerative growth and respect in natural bodybuilding is now.
William Long, a legend in the Men’s Physique in natural bodybuilding – precisely the INBA/PNBA league – will help bridge the gap between natural bodybuilding and other popular sports to recognize athletes’ accomplishments. The success and loyalty he’s had in the league have paved the way for him to be the first athlete to sign a multi-media contract with powerhouse strength sports and fitness media companies – Generation Iron and Iron Man Magazine – and the largest natural bodybuilding federation – INBA/PNBA. On Instagram (IG), the INBA/PNBA published a post stating:
“Loyalty Has Its Rewards!
PNBA 3X Natural Olympia Champion William Long @ricecracker2487 is the first to sign a Multi-Media Contract with the
@inbapnbaglobal_official
@ironmanmagazine
@generationiron
INBA PNBA Elite Natural Athletes will be recognized globally on authoritative platforms and be the ICONS of the Natural Bodybuilding Industry.
As the Global Leaders in Natural Bodybuilding, “Serving The Elite Natural Athlete” has been our motto for 33 years and will always continue to be”
You can see INBA/PNBA’s full post and IG clip below:
https://www.instagram.com/reel/CX2GGsXFmXW/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
Contract Regulation
According to the INBA/PNBA board, the contract will be “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.” It will help assist the athlete with:
Promotion
Brand building – digital media write-ups, social media posts, photoshoots
Special guest appearances, posing, and seminar sessions
Iron Man Magazine nutrition ads and endorsements
To earn a contract, the athlete must be an INBA/PNBA athlete and be in good standing in the league. The competitor must also be willing for professional growth and agree to in and out of competition drug testing via World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).
The “OG” of Men’s Physique
William Long became known as “The OG” after becoming the first PNBA Men’s Physique Natural Olympia champion. Subsequently, he went on to win two more Men’s Physique Natural Olympia titles and is the reigning champ. He’s also a 2019 natural bodybuilding Hall of Fame Inductee and known for being the best dressed Vegeta at LA Comic Con’s.
If there’s one thing for sure, the INBA/PNBA league treats its exceptional and loyal athletes with the utmost respect. William Long concurs. On social media, he said:
“No other organization rewards and promotes their athletes more than @inbapnbaglobal_official. You want the best you have to compete with the best. Best tested and more cash and prizes.”
We’re excited to see which athletes will earn future contracts!
Generation Iron would like to congratulate William Long for signing his multi-media contract! We’re looking forward to working more closely with you!
Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for more INBA/PNBA competitor news!
Arnold Schwarzenegger donates 25 tiny homes to homeless veterans in California
Arnold Schwarzenegger made a $250,000 donation toward the cause.
Arnold Schwarzenegger is the former Governor of California and he is continuing to make contributions to the state. On Thursday, the greatest bodybuilder of all-time donated 25 tiny homes to shelter homeless veterans in West Los Angeles.
Schwarzenegger joined forces with Village for Vets to make this happen. This is a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to providing food and shelter to homeless and at-risk veterans. Veterans Affair Secretary Denis McDonough and volunteer organization American Veterans also helped in building the homes.
Schwarzenegger took to Twitter on Dec. 23 to make the announcement.
“Today, I celebrated Christmas early. The 25 homes I donated for homeless veterans were installed here in LA. It was fantastic to spend some time with our heroes and welcome them into their new homes.”
Today, I celebrated Christmas early. The 25 homes I donated for homeless veterans were installed here in LA. It was fantastic to spend some time with our heroes and welcome them into their new homes. pic.twitter.com/2mHKfoZ65V
— Arnold (@Schwarzenegger) December 24, 2021
Arnold Schwarzenegger made a great career for himself in America after coming over from Austria. He won seven Olympia titles and was the most influential bodybuilder during his time. He is still widely considered as the best of all-time. Schwarzenegger then made appearances on the big screen and was a successful politician.
Due to his success, Schwarzenegger feels the need to give back as much as possible. He went on FOX 11 Los Angeles during “The Issue Is” to discuss this latest project with Elex Michaelson.
“I’ve made and have this great success because of America. If it isn’t bodybuilding, if it isn’t business, if it isn’t show business, movies and politics — whatever I tackled I achieved because of America, so to me, it’s always great to give something back.”
Many veterans have spoken out about this since receiving homes. This includes veteran Bruce Henry Cooper who said that this has “been a life-saver.”
Village for Vets builds tiny shelters that provide an elevated standard of living from tent encampments while veterans are on their journey to find permanent housing and stability. This is not a permanent solution but it is a way to shelter veterans who do not have proper housing.
Arnold Schwarzenegger continues to be an influential voice and figure in California. The work that he has done has made a difference and this can be added to the list.
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
The Anabolic Doc: Bodybuilding Is Not Worth The Steroid Use Required To Succeed
[embedded content]
The Anabolic Doc believes bodybuilding success requires good genetics and steroid use – and advises reassessing your goals away from the sport.
Dr. Thomas O’Connor, aka the Anabolic Doc, has always maintained an empathy and understanding of bodybuilders and strength athletes who use steroids. The doc was “bitten by the bug” himself – as he puts it. He understands that an athlete will always want to do whatever it takes to succeed.
But if he were to give advice to a young aspiring bodybuilder before they become passionate and embedded into the sport. His advice would be to “reassess” their goals and back away from bodybuilding. This is because he believes that steroids are mandatory to succeed in the sport. And he sees the damage to health it causes too severe to ever recommend. In our latest GI Exclusive, the Anabolic Doc explains why he feels bodybuilding is not worth the steroid use that comes with it.
We recently had a very lengthly video conversation with Dr. Thomas O’Connor, aka the Anabolic Doc. This conversation has been released in segments over the past few weeks. As always, the doctor provides very empathetic and educated information about drug use in the sport and its long term consequences. So we decided to ask him – what advice would he give to a young aspiring bodybuilder who is interested in going pro?
Many amateur bodybuilders feel the pressure to use steroids to succeed. It’s a slippery slope. If one person is winning on steroids, then others feel the need to use to be on an even playing field. Before you know it – steroid use becomes the norm. This is the world that many amateur bodybuilders are entering. While not literally mandatory, it’s a pressure that can manifest in aspiring athletes.
That’s why The Anabolic Doc, while emphatic to athletes and their passions, would strongly advise that aspiring bodybuilders back away. He whole heartedly believes the steroid use is not worth it. He’s seen the data and he’s worked with enough bodybuilders post-retirement to know the suffering they go through. If a bodybuilder believes that steroid use is necessary to succeed in the sport, the doctor believes that the athlete should simply find another goal completely.
“You have to have great genetics and then you have to do steroids,” the Anabolic Doc states in our interview in regards to competitive bodybuilding. He continues:
“I would advise 100% to reassess your dreams and goals and not to do it [bodybuilding].”
The Anabolic Doc understands that a person, regardless of sport or even goal, will do whatever it takes to succeed if they are passionate about the subject. This is unavoidable. So for those on the fence and not fully embedded into the sport – Dr. O’Connor seems to see this as a way out. Jump ship before you get sucked in and start making sacrifices that can lead to health issues in the long term. As much as the doctor is a strength athlete at heart himself – he knows too much of the data and experiences to ever fully recommend going down that path.
Do you agree with the Anabolic Doc? And do you think that steroids are necessary to succeed in the sport? Watch his full comments in our latest GI Exclusive interview segment above – and then decide for yourself!