Tag: nEWS
Milos Sarcev Compares Physiques of Hunter Labrada & Andrew Jacked Weeks from 2023 Texas Pro
With this year’s Mr. Olympia approaching, athletes are out in full force attempting to qualify for the prestigious show. In a recent Muscular Development interview, Milos Sarcev broke down Hunter Labrada‘s chances against Andrew Jacked, assuming they meet next month as planned at the 2023 Texas Pro.
“Listen, I love Labrada’s physique, I think he’s so complete. He just doesn’t have the wow factor of Andrew Jacked,” Milos Sarcev shared.
Having placed as high as fourth at Mr. Olympia, Hunter Labrada emerged as a Men’s Open threat with symmetry, conditioning, and mass. Instead of staying active last season, Labrada took extra time to work on his physique. However, when he reached the Olympia stage, Labrada struggled against a star-studded lineup.
In the end, he secured seventh place. Labrada was open about his mistakes and mentioned problems arose both during the peak and prep. Months later, he announced his participation in a pair of shows (2023 Tampa Pro and Texas Pro). Looking to correct the issues that held him back from success, Labrada promised to come back better than ever. He revealed changes to his diet and began practicing vacuum poses for abdomen control.
Andrew Jacked’s road to the top of the Open class was sudden as he recorded one of the most successful rookie seasons of all time. He earned his Pro card, and won the 2022 Texas Pro in his IFBB Pro debut, defeating names like Martin Fitzwater and Steve Kuclo. Before the year ended, Andrew won the Arnold Classic UK and finished eighth at his first Mr. Olympia.
As of this year, Andrew Jacked proved himself at the 2023 Arnold Classic. He held his own against the winner Samson Dauda and runner-up Nick Walker during the finals. Even though Jacked looked at his best, he was unable to earn his qualification for Olympia.
“It Could Go Both Ways,” Milos Sarcev Says 2023 Texas Pro Toss Up for Hunter Labrada & Andrew Jacked
Looking at the contest objectively, Milos Sarcev believes Hunter Labrada and Andrew Jacked both have the potential to win in Texas.
“I love Andrew Jacked’s physique. So, you know, Andrew Jacked against Samson, I could see Andrew getting Samson on some points, by all means, it’s not like a cake walk and Samson is dominating. I know he was a little bit drier, more condition and stuff, but just overall package, Samson dominated him,” said Milos Sarcev.
“It could go both ways [between Hunter Labrada and Andrew Jacked],” said Sarcev. “For me, still, Andrew Jacked has this height and width about him – and just so much aesthetic massive beauty. So, if he comes like Houston last year, you know how it is, he was way better conditioned at the Arnold Classic, way better condition, but he turned their heads in Houston.”
Sarcev argued Andrew could benefit from more side leg thickness. Then, mentioned Labrada had no glaring weaknesses.
“If he comes similar size he was in Houston in similar condition like he was at the Olympia, I just don’t see anybody touching him, right? He’s still a little bit light in the legs especially from the side. But other than that, Andrew doesn’t have any weaknesses.”
“We’ve never seen Labrada dried to the bone super conditioned,” said Sarcev. “Hunter is compact. He has no weaknesses.”
Sarcev examined Labrada’s mandatory poses to elaborate on why he doesn’t have weaknesses.
“He needs deeper abs, deeper abs, and much more control to express all the beauty of his shape. When the midsection is not happening that much, okay, then it affects everything. Front double biceps crazy. Lat spread is quite good. Side chest, side triceps, side triceps is phenomenal. Side triceps is very very good. Back double, back lat spread, now, very much improved.
I don’t see the weaknesses. His conditioning before maybe there was not slice and dice, so if you say weakness, but this is just a conditioning issue not the muscles, low lat insertions, x-frame, v-taper, sweeping thighs, calves, I mean he has it all. Abs and thighs was not a super good pose and most muscular, you know, very good pose, not stunning.”
Given his history of success, Sarcev believes with ‘once in a lifetime conditioning,’ Hunter Labrada could win the Mr. Olympia title.
“He beat Nick Walker, right? Nick Walker is considered a potential Mr. Olympia winner and now you’re going to tell me that Labrada just doesn’t train hard enough? He’s so hungry the last couple of years. He’s training his ass off. He has everything that it takes, if he comes in once-in-a-lifetime conditioning, you tell me why he can’t win, because all these guys are so superior? No.”
“So, Hunter Labrada is a potential Mr. Olympia winner. If everything goes well, if he did put the quality size and comes in ripped to the bone dry, conditioned, like I said, he doesn’t have weaknesses. You say that he does, I didn’t notice them but okay. You just think lower lat insertions, it’s not so visible that I would pay attention.”
Labrada and Jacked have kept up on progress photos leading into the show. Both men appear motivated and anticipate a tough battle en route to gold. In addition, Carlos Thomas Jr. has entered the contest as a definite wildcard. This event will serve as his first IFBB Pro show, and judging by his recent guest posings, he has a shot at winning.
Athletes have until October 9 to secure passage to the sport’s most celebrated event of the year, 2023 Mr. Olympia, which is slated to take place November 2-5, in Orlando Florida.
RELATED: Milos Sarcev Gives Top 3 2023 Mr. Olympia Predictions w/Jay Cutler, Talks Samson Dauda’s Progress
You can find the full video from the Muscular Development YouTube channel below:
Published: 2 August, 2023 | 3:18 PM EDT
Tyler Manion Unveils New Weight Rules for Classic Physique to Level Playing Field for Shorter Athletes
Major news broke last night in the world of bodybuilding as IFBB Pro League Vice President Tyler Manion laid out new weight rules for the Men’s Classic Physique division. In a recent Instagram post, Manion confirmed athletes of all heights will receive an increase (2-7 pounds) to their allotted weight. This change was made to accommodate shorter competitors who were previously at a disadvantage to their taller counterparts.
Many fans are curious how the new weight rules will affect the future of the division, currently dominated by four-time Classic Physique Olympia Chris Bumstead. At 6’1″, Bumstead has enjoyed a size advantage over shorter athletes of the category, but it appears that could change.
Given the new rules imposed in Classic Physique, athletes with shorter statures such as Terrence Ruffin appear to be among the top beneficiaries. Over the years, the weight and height restrictions were an issue for some competitors.
After being burdened by the weight cap, former two-time Classic Physique Olympia Breon Ansley announced his exit from the category last December. Ansley plans to test the waters as a 212 competitor but has yet to qualify for Olympia in the new division. The last time he checked in with fans he said to expect another ten pounds of muscle in his next outing.
With Ramon Queiroz initially missing weight at last year’s Olympia, the extra few pounds might be a game-changer.
You can find Tyler Manion’s official statement below:
“We’re going to be upping our Classic Physique weights for the Pros slightly, going into effect immediately at the upcoming Pro shows this weekend. We took a look and realized that one height grouping had a little bit of an advantage over other height groups. This height grouping is over 6’1″ and up to and including 6’2”.
The weight jumped from the previous weight goes up to 10 pounds. All the middle height classes and all the other height classes basically goes up by either seven or eight pounds. The lowest height divisions only go up by five pounds. So, what we’ve decided to do was we’re giving the two pounds to the over 6’1″ including 6’2″. So, they also get a little bit of a weight increase. The lowest height classes will be getting seven additional pounds. This will include the two-pound jump that the over 6’1″ up to including 6’2″ got,” explained IFBB VP Tyler Manion.
The IFBB Pro League plans to measure the height of each competitor on three separate occasions, take the average, and use that number as their permanent height for contests. There have been issues with recording athletes’ heights in the past, and Manion hopes these changes will correct that.
Bodybuilders were quick to react to the big news.
@t_manion/Instagram
In addition to the latest announcement, Tyler Manion revealed in June that new height and weight restrictions are set to take effect in Men’s Physique at the first contest following the 2023 Mr. Olympia, which takes place Nov. 2-5, in Orlando, Florida. Manion offered insight into the change and said the decision was made to ensure athletes aren’t getting too big.
The new Classic Physique rules give seven more pounds to shorter bodybuilders, which makes it easier for them to compete with taller athletes. However, some worry that the increase will push the division closer to the size boasted by Men’s Open competitors.
RELATED: Urs Kalecinski ‘Pumped’ for 2023 Olympia Showdown w/Ramon Queiroz, Says He’ll Cut to 1,800 Calories Daily
While athletes appear grateful for the change, time will tell how the new statutes affect the growth and direction of the Classic Physique division.
Published: 2 August, 2023 | 11:14 AM EDT
Jeff Nippard Compares Natural Bodybuilding And Impact of Steroids On Muscle Building
Jeff Nippard compared the results of natural bodybuilding vs steroid use in his recent video. Steroids or Performance Enhancing Drugs are often associated with heightened abilities and faster gains when coupled with training. However, a vast majority of the general populace are unaware of the extent to which they can alter the outcome of training.
Jeff Nippard is a renowned fitness expert from Canada. He is one of the foremost figures in the YouTube fitness community and is known for creating science-based content to educate fitness enthusiasts. As a result of this, he has amassed 3.8 million followers on YouTube.
The 32-year-old is an accomplished natural bodybuilder and powerlifter. He held the 2012 Mr. Junior Canada title and also had the Canadian national record for bench press in his name. As a coach, Nippard has trained several bodybuilders and powerlifters to achieve their goals.
In recent months, Jeff Nippard has done an in-depth study of minimalist training principles, formulating a training plan based on them. He is a student of bodybuilding and has offered guidance to the fitness community on topics like common nutrition mistakes, sustainable weight management strategies and metabolism-boosting methods.
Steroid use is one of the most debated topics in the fitness industry. While the risks associated with them are pretty much out in the open, an unbelievably large number of fitness enthusiasts and professionals lean into them for all practical purposes.
In his recent video, Jeff Nippard broke down the potential of natural bodybuilding, the impact of steroid use, and the risks associated with them to educate the fitness community about the topic. So let’s see if our opinion about steroids and natural bodybuilding changes in any way after understanding his arguments.
Jeff Nippard explains the possibilities and limits of natural bodybuilding
Jeff Nippard first covered the potential of natural bodybuilding and explained how much growth you can achieve without leaning into steroids. Nippard is the former Junior Mr. Canada title holder and also held the Canadian national record for bench press as a natural powerlifter. He has trained naturally for over 15 years. He believes that he is not an absolutely elite example of a natural bodybuilder. However, Nippard’s growth is a good benchmark to assume how much progress an individual can naturally achieve.
At 5ft-5in tall, Jeff Nippard weighs between 73 kg (160 lbs) lean and 82 kg (180 lbs) bulky. Most of the muscle growth in the 32-year-old’s training journey came in the first five years when he gained nearly 20 lbs of lean muscle mass. The growth slowed down considerably in the next decade as the Canadian put on a total of 7.5 lbs of lean muscle mass over the next decade or so.
“Every natural lifter doing most things right will experience a similar growth curve, with faster growth at the beginning and slower growth as they approach their so-called natural genetic ceiling.”
Nippard cited the study ‘Fat Free Mass Index in Users and Nonusers of Anabolic-Androgenic Steroids’ to back his claim and added:
“Men tend to max out their natural potential after gaining 20 to 40 lbs (9 to 18 kg) of muscle mass. Women tend to max out their natural potential after gaining 12 to 24 lbs of muscle mass.”
How can you reach the natural potential?
It is essential to remain consistent with training and diet for years or even decades to max out the natural potential. Regular and intense training to failure, exercise variety, and sufficient volume (5 to 15 sets per week, per body part) is a good ballpark to define consistent training. According to Nippard, staying in moderate caloric surplus and eating enough protein – approximately 0.7 grams of protein per pound of bodyweight – will almost certainly get you close to the natural potential.
Read also: Best Natural Bodybuilders
Steroids can push the growth to unthinkable extent after natural ceiling is reached
A 20 to 40-lb muscle gain is not ordinary by any means. However, is it possible to push these frontiers and gain a little more with advanced diet and training strategies? Yes. But in most cases, that extra gain will be marginal according to Nippard. Natural bodybuilders like Alberto Nunes, Jeff Alberts, and Alex Leonidas are some examples of natural bodybuilders that came really close to maximizing their natural potential. But steroids can make leaps in terms of muscle and strength gain.
Nippard referred to the study ‘The Effects of Supraphysiologic Doses of Testosterone on Muscle Size and Strength in Normal Men’ that was conducted in 1996 to put the effect of steroids in perspective. The study divided its subjects into four groups and results were measured after a 10-week period.
Two of these groups were natural individuals. The first group neither took steroids nor trained. They showed no muscle growth, which was the expected outcome. Subjects that trained but did not take steroids gained 4.4 lbs of muscle on average.
However, there was a massive difference in the subjects that received a 600 mg weekly dose of steroids. Subjects that took steroids and trained experienced a massive 13.4 lbs or 3 times more muscle gain. The most surprising results were produced in the group that did not train but received steroids. They gained an average of 7 lbs of lean muscle in the same period. To put it in perspective, it’s over 1.5 times more than the group that trained naturally!
An industry expert’s insights on the impact of steroid use on bodybuilding
Nippard consulted a famous anabolic steroids expert to determine if the 600 mg dose given in this study was high, low, or moderate according to modern-day bodybuilding standards. The expert, who chose to maintain anonymity in this video, explained:
“That’s entry level bodybuilder cycle territory I would say. Then to represent what could be seen at a professional level in the very competitive ranks, you see upwards of, at minimum oftentimes, 1000 mg per week but as high as 4000 to 5000 mg per week.”
This conversation determined that there is a direct correlation between the dosage and muscle gain. Nippard referred to a follow-up study conducted in 2001. It revealed that on average, subjects on higher doses experienced a significantly higher muscle gain and vice versa without training. On average, those on high doses of steroids gained nearly 1 pound of muscle each week during a 20-week period over which the study was conducted.
“This isn’t the highest responder. This is the average. Think about that. I might put on one pound of muscle in the next year if I’m lucky as a late stage natural. These guys put on 1 pound of muscle per week by taking 600 mg of test.”
To gauge the extent to which steroids can help you push beyond the natural potential, Nippard studied 212 Olympia champion Shaun Clarida and Classic Physique Olympia champion Chris Bumstead.
Shaun Clarida and Chris Bumstead – pushing the boundaries after maxing out natural potential
Clarida maxed out his potential naturally before starting the use of steroids. As a natural, Shaun Clarida weighed 130 lbs. After enhancing his physique with steroids, he was able to add nearly 60 lbs (27 kg) of muscle mass.
Things were a little different for Bumstead who was much taller at 6ft-1in. He gained 55 lbs (2 kg) naturally and weighed approximately 225 lbs at the peak of his natural abilities. However, steroids helped him gain another 40 lbs (18 kg).
According to Nippard, genetics play a big role in the body’s response to steroids. Bumstead might be one of the individuals that do not need heavy doses as most of his growth happened naturally. He was then able to add a little bit of extra muscle mass after starting with steroids.
Steroids do produce miraculous results when it comes to performance and muscle gain. But is it really worth it to inject these substances into your body for fast gains? Regular steroid use is associated with a well-established risk of blood clots, heart attacks, artery damage, and stroke.
Is there a ‘safer’ way of using steroids? Jeff Nippard answers
You can mitigate the risks associated with steroids when you use them under the strict supervision of a medical team. However, Nippard feels that it is still a gamble and can bring a plethora of health issues anyway.
The 32-year-old is clear about his stance on steroid use. He is not against it and doesn’t promote it either. But if folks choose to take them anyway, here is what he advises:
“I think it will be smart to at least max out your natural potential first. This will force you to understand your body and force you to learn how to pull the training and nutrition levers most effectively for your physique.”
The Canadian feels that this knowledge will empower people to make an informed decision whether to use steroids or not.
“But of course if your goal is to maximize health, it’d be smart to stay natural unless a medical professional recommends hormonal treatment,” Nippard added.
To conclude, Jeff Nippard suggests seeking training advice based on its value. According to him, quality of advice is more important than how the person looks. After all, the amount of muscle a person carries is not the best indicator of the quality of their training.
You can watch the full video below, courtesy of Jeff Nippard’s personal YouTube channel:
Published: 2 August, 2023 | 9:11 AM EDT
Powerlifter Russel Orhii Crushes 212.5-kg (468.4-lb) Bench Press PR In Prep For a Return To The IPF
Russel Orhii is easily one of the greatest powerlifters ever in the 83-kilogram weight class, having won numerous titles across the years. Therefore, it was somewhat surprising that he had not been too active this year in terms of competitions. However, his training sessions were still going strong, and he looks stronger than ever. This is evident by Russel’s numerous recent feats of strength, most notably the new 212.5-kilogram (468.4-pound) Bench Press PR.
Russel Orhii only used wrist wraps to set a 212.5-kilogram (468.4-pound) bench press PR, making it raw. However, Russel had to struggle a lot in order to set this PR, but pushing himself to his limits will only result in even more improvement. Regardless of the grind, Russel still maintained perfect technique, proving why he is one of the greatest powerlifters in the world.
Watch the lift here:
Related: Powerlifter Russel Orhii Scores a Huge 337.5-kg (744-lb) Raw Squat Two-Rep PR
Russel Orhii’s Comeback To The IPF
The context is incredibly important in this story, since Russel Orhii was once a part of the IPF, but has been a USAPL lifter for the past few years. These two powerlifting federations were once connected, but split up after some disagreements. After the split, the athletes had to choose one federation to compete in exclusively.
Russel Orhii evaluated the situation after the split and opted for the USAPL, which no longer seems like the correct option to him. He has now officially left USAPL and revealed exactly why in a recent YouTube video.
“I’m leaving the USAPL. The reason why I am leaving the USAPL is because I want to go back to being a World Champion Powerlifter…
I decided to stay with the USAPL (in 2021), thinking that it would allow me to grow the business of the better brand…
As I have done that, the IPF has taken bigger strides than the USAPL, with just the little things that kind of add to what it means to be a powerlifter.”
Russel Orhii also stated that the IPF will have more big competitions for him, as he was previously only attracted to the USAPL Nationals. Speaking of which, he wanted to claim his sixth USAPL National title later this year, but had to withdraw and turn his attention to the IPF as soon as possible.
While USAPL and IPF were together, the athletes from the USA qualified for the World Championships through the USAPL Nationals. However, due to their split, IPF was forced to set up an affiliate, Powerlifting America (AMP), which now puts on their Nationals as a way to qualify.
“If I want to go to the IPF, I have to serve a six month suspension, and that starts whenever I reinstate myself. So, if I were to compete in the USAPL Nationals, I would then start my suspension. That would have made me eligible to compete in April of 2024. By that time, the AMP Nationals (Qualifier for 2024 IPF Worlds) would have already happened.”
One unusual side effect of Russel Orhii’s situation is that he will end 2023 without making a single appearance in a sanctioned competition. In the past eight years, this has only been the case in 2020.
Regardless, we will soon get to see him compete in the 2024 Powerlifting America (AMP) Nationals, IPF World Championships, and a bit later on, the IPF World Games and IPF Sheffield as well.
Watch the full video here:
Related: Powerlifter Russel Orhii Sets New Squat, Deadlift, & Total Competition PRs At 2022 USAPL Korea Winter Showdown
Russel Orhii Competition History
Personal Bests
Equip
Squat
Bench
Deadlift
Total
Dots
Raw
749.6
429.9
749.6
1951.1
572.69
Competition Results
Place
Fed
Date
Competition
Division
Total
Dots
1
USAPL
2022-12-17
Korea Winter Showdown
MR-O
1951.1
572.69
Location
South Korea
Competition
Korea Winter Showdown
Division
MR-O
Age
~27.5
Equipment
Raw
Class
198.4
Weight
198.1
Squat
-700
722
749.6
749.6
Bench
402.3
418.9
429.9
429.9
Deadlift
705.5
738.5
771.6
771.6
GLP
117.74
1
USAPL
2022-06-08
Mega Nationals
MR-O
1847.5
568.87
Location
USA-NV
Competition
Mega Nationals
Division
MR-O
Age
~27.5
Equipment
Raw
Class
181.9
Weight
181.2
Squat
655.9
684.5
706.6
706.6
Bench
396.8
407.9
413.4
413.4
Deadlift
683.4
716.5
727.5
727.5
GLP
116.58
1
IPF
2021-09-23
World Classic Powerlifting Championships
Open
1854.1
569.22
Location
Sweden
Competition
World Classic Powerlifting Championships
Division
Open
Age
~26.5
Equipment
Raw
Class
183
Weight
182.1
Squat
655.9
691.1
706.6
706.6
Bench
396.8
407.9
413.4
413.4
Deadlift
683.4
716.5
734.1
734.1
GLP
116.69
1
USAPL
2021-06-14
Raw Nationals
MR-O
1858.5
570.89
Location
USA-FL
Competition
Raw Nationals
Division
MR-O
Age
~26.5
Equipment
Raw
Class
183
Weight
182
Squat
661.4
692.3
712.1
712.1
Bench
407.9
418.9
424.4
424.4
Deadlift
688.9
722
-738.5
722
GLP
117.02
1
USAPL
2019-10-16
Raw Nationals
MR-O
1826.5
561.72
Location
USA-IL
Competition
Raw Nationals
Division
MR-O
Age
~24.5
Equipment
Raw
Class
183
Weight
181.6
Squat
-666.9
-691.1
691.1
691.1
Bench
402.3
418.9
424.4
424.4
Deadlift
677.9
711
-722
711
GLP
115.13
1
IPF
2019-06-04
World Classic Powerlifting Championships
Open
1836.4
565.24
Location
Sweden
Competition
World Classic Powerlifting Championships
Division
Open
Age
~24.5
Equipment
Raw
Class
183
Weight
181.3
Squat
639.3
673.5
690
690
Bench
402.3
418.9
429.9
429.9
Deadlift
666.9
694.5
716.5
716.5
GLP
115.84
1
USAPL
2018-10-11
Raw Nationals
MR-O
1765.9
541.48
Location
USA-WA
Competition
Raw Nationals
Division
MR-O
Age
~23.5
Equipment
Raw
Class
183
Weight
182.5
Squat
633.8
663.6
-679
663.6
Bench
402.3
-413.4
418.9
418.9
Deadlift
633.8
661.4
683.4
683.4
GLP
111.01
2
IPF
2018-06-06
World Classic Powerlifting Championships
Open
1727.3
529.76
Location
Canada
Competition
World Classic Powerlifting Championships
Division
Open
Age
~23.5
Equipment
Raw
Class
183
Weight
182.5
Squat
606.3
639.3
658.1
658.1
Bench
391.3
407.9
418.9
418.9
Deadlift
628.3
650.4
-661.4
650.4
GLP
108.61
1
USAPL
2018-03-03
The Arnold SBD Pro American
MR-O
1719.6
528.48
Location
USA-OH
Competition
The Arnold SBD Pro American
Division
MR-O
Age
~23.5
Equipment
Raw
Class
183
Weight
181.8
Squat
633.8
-661.4
-661.4
633.8
Bench
374.8
391.3
402.3
402.3
Deadlift
639.3
666.9
683.4
683.4
GLP
108.32
1
USAPL
2017-10-10
Raw National Championships
MR-Jr
1748.3
538.77
Location
USA-FL
Competition
Raw National Championships
Division
MR-Jr
Age
~22.5
Equipment
Raw
Class
183
Weight
180.9
Squat
622.8
644.9
662.5
662.5
Bench
374.8
385.8
396.8
396.8
Deadlift
639.3
672.4
688.9
688.9
GLP
110.4
1
USAPL
2017-10-10
Raw National Championships
MR-O
1748.3
538.77
Location
USA-FL
Competition
Raw National Championships
Division
MR-O
Age
~22.5
Equipment
Raw
Class
183
Weight
180.9
Squat
622.8
644.9
662.5
662.5
Bench
374.8
385.8
396.8
396.8
Deadlift
639.3
672.4
688.9
688.9
GLP
110.4
1
USAPL
2017-08-26
Texas Raw Championships
MR-Jr
1747.2
537.57
Location
USA-TX
Competition
Texas Raw Championships
Division
MR-Jr
Age
~22.5
Equipment
Raw
Class
183
Weight
181.4
Squat
606.3
639.3
655.9
655.9
Bench
374.8
391.3
402.3
402.3
Deadlift
639.3
677.9
688.9
688.9
GLP
110.17
1
USAPL
2017-08-26
Texas Raw Championships
MR-O
1747.2
537.57
Location
USA-TX
Competition
Texas Raw Championships
Division
MR-O
Age
~22.5
Equipment
Raw
Class
183
Weight
181.4
Squat
606.3
639.3
655.9
655.9
Bench
374.8
391.3
402.3
402.3
Deadlift
639.3
677.9
688.9
688.9
GLP
110.17
1
USAPL
2017-02-18
Aggie Showdown
MR-Jr
1686.5
517.5
Location
USA-TX
Competition
Aggie Showdown
Division
MR-Jr
Age
~22.5
Equipment
Raw
Class
183
Weight
182.3
Squat
584.2
617.3
-666.9
617.3
Bench
341.7
374.8
391.3
391.3
Deadlift
628.3
677.9
-700
677.9
GLP
106.09
1
USAPL
2017-02-18
Aggie Showdown
MR-O
1686.5
517.5
Location
USA-TX
Competition
Aggie Showdown
Division
MR-O
Age
~22.5
Equipment
Raw
Class
183
Weight
182.3
Squat
584.2
617.3
-666.9
617.3
Bench
341.7
374.8
391.3
391.3
Deadlift
628.3
677.9
-700
677.9
GLP
106.09
1
USAPL
2016-12-03
Southern Regional Championships
MR-Jr
1686.5
503.98
Location
USA-TX
Competition
Southern Regional Championships
Division
MR-Jr
Age
~21.5
Equipment
Raw
Class
205
Weight
191.4
Squat
567.7
600.8
633.8
633.8
Bench
347.2
363.8
385.8
385.8
Deadlift
584.2
628.3
666.9
666.9
GLP
103.54
1
USAPL
2016-02-20
Aggie Showdown
MR-C
1570.8
482.64
Location
USA-TX
Competition
Aggie Showdown
Division
MR-C
Age
~21.5
Equipment
Raw
Class
183
Weight
181.9
Squat
518.1
545.6
562.2
562.2
Bench
330.7
358.3
369.3
369.3
Deadlift
562.2
595.2
639.3
639.3
GLP
98.93
1
USAPL
2015-11-07
Raw Collegiate Cup
MR-Jr
1510.2
466.27
Location
USA-TX
Competition
Raw Collegiate Cup
Division
MR-Jr
Age
~20.5
Equipment
Raw
Class
183
Weight
180.3
Squat
485
523.6
540.1
540.1
Bench
330.7
347.2
363.8
363.8
Deadlift
540.1
578.7
606.3
606.3
GLP
95.52
Data Source: Open Powerlifting. Last Updated: April 12, 2023
Analyze Lifts
Russel Orhii is already a 2x IPF World Champion (2019 & 2021), but his main goal now will be reclaiming his title in 2024. He also stated that he will remain in the 83-kilogram weight class for the foreseeable future, despite some outside speculations that he is moving to the 90-kilogram weight class. So, he is now taking a very big step, but it seems correct, as IPF is currently ruling the drug-tested powerlifting scene.
Published: 2 August, 2023 | 9:12 AM EDT
Build Massive Traps with Dorian Yates’ Dumbbell Shrug Technique
Legendary bodybuilder Dorian Yates set a new standard in the Men’s Open division with his insanely thick and wide upper body. He’s widely regarded to have presented one of the best back muscle development of all time. In a recent post made on Instagram, Yates revealed the fix for a common mistake on the dumbbell shrugs.
Dorian Yates first gained attention for his massive muscle mass, size, and granite conditioning in the early 90s. He emerged as a promising contender out of the UK and took silver to eight-time champion Lee Haney in his maiden Mr. Olympia showing in 1991. The next year, Yates secured the coveted Sandow trophy with his monstrous package at the 1992 Mr. Olympia.
Yates proved to be a dominant champion, winning six Mr. Olympia titles in a row and every other show he participated in from 1992 to 1997. After a final outing at the 1997 Mr. Olympia, he hung up his posing trunks.
‘The Shadow’ earned a reputation for staying away from the limelight between contests and returning with a significantly enhanced package on stage. He adopted the high-intensity training techniques of Arthur Jones and Mike Mentzer where he would push himself to near failure in every training session.
Given the intense nature of high-intensity workouts, Yates suggests limiting them to 45 minutes. He advocates for using heavy weights to give new stress to the body for building muscle.
Yates does not believe squats are essential to growing muscle. Since he picked up a hip injury from using the movement in his heyday, he argued the exercise presented a high risk and that there were safer ways of achieving the same result. He also revealed he trained four times a week to get ready for Mr. Olympia shows during his days of competition.
Dorian Yates underwent stem cell therapy to heal from the injuries and physical damage he sustained over the years. The treatment helped boost recovery in his shoulder and reduce inflammation after a month with further improvement expected in the knee and elbow.
Dorian Yates / Instagram
Yates crafted a ripped midsection with two bodyweight abs exercises, which he would time after a heavy shoulders and triceps training session. Then, he revealed the exercises he utilized to build an Olympia-worthy chest in his prime.
The 61-year-old has not lost his passion for fitness. He still boasts shredded abs even after 40 years in the game. In addition to weight training, Yates utilizes other exercises to boost longevity. While he doesn’t need to prep for shows now, he enjoys leading a healthy lifestyle.
Build Massive Traps with Dorian Yates’ Dumbbell Shrug Technique
In a recent Instagram post, Dorian Yates shared a common mistake lifters make while perfuming the dumbbell shrug and explained his solution for building massive traps.
“Dumbbell shrugs,” said Yates. “When working the traps, I always see people shrugging straight up. Missing out on the rest of the trapezius muscle. The traps run down your back and the way target them fully is by shrugging up and back. This will engage the mid and lower traps too as well as the upper. Lean slightly forward too rather than standing straight. 40 years of experience in the gym, crafting arguably the best back in the history of bodybuilding… I know what works.”
Dorian Yates now follows intermittent fasting to stay in top shape post-retirement. He believes it’s a big factor in keeping him ripped in his 60s and encouraged his fans to adopt the diet as well.
Yates recommends doing a proper warm-up before a high-intensity training session. He used a stationary bike to kickstart his workouts and focused on mobility and flexibility.
His latest offering will certainly help many fitness fans build bigger traps as they improve their form with a proper range of motion.
Published: 1 August, 2023 | 11:40 PM EDT
Powerlifters Brianny Terry And Marianna Gasparyan Become IFBB Pros At 2023 NPC USA Championships
Transitions from one sport to another are not unusual in the fitness community. It is, however, extremely rare to achieve success in one sport and then achieve the same in another. A lot of factors need to line up for this to happen, but Brianny Terry and Marianna Gasparyan decided to take matters into their own hands. Both of the women made incredible careers as powerlifters, but they have now successfully transitioned to bodybuilding. They competed at the 2023 NPC USA Championships and earned their IFBB Pro Cards.
Marianna Gasparyan
Marianna Gasparyan is definitely the most notable women’s athlete in powerlifting, as she still tops the All-Time Rankings with a DOTS score of 709.96. However, she retired from the sport approximately two years ago, and obviously put in a lot of training to build her physique since then.
Overall, Marianna Gasparyan took part in 39 sanctioned powerlifting competitions and won 36 of them. Moreover, she set World Records on over 90 occasions, which helped solidify her as a potential G.O.A.T of powerlifting.
Marianna Gasparyan competed in the lightweight division at the 2023 NPC USA Championships. Having brought in her A-game, Marianna won her division, in turn becoming an IFBB Pro.
Marianna Gasparyan did put in some bodybuilding appearances as well during the past few years. She won the 2020 Savannah Championships and 2023 NPC Worldwide Oksana Grishina International Classic Pro Qualifier. In addition, she has also landed a few top three placings, but nothing measures up to her new gold medal, which earned her the IFBB Pro Card.
Marianna Gasparyan’s Powerlifting History
Personal Bests
Equip
Squat
Bench
Deadlift
Total
Dots
Wraps
573.2
292.1
573.2
1350.3
709.96
Raw
507.1
292.1
507.1
1278.7
659.24
Single-ply
440.9
198.4
440.9
970
505.56
Competition Results
Place
Fed
Date
Competition
Division
Total
Dots
1
WRPF
2021-04-24
Kern US Open
Open
1289.7
681.32
Location
USA-CA
Competition
Kern US Open
Division
Open
Age
32
Equipment
Wraps
Class
123.5
Weight
122.6
Squat
529.1
562.2
-578.7
562.2
Bench
275.6
286.6
-292.1
286.6
Deadlift
440.9
-463
-463
440.9
1
WRPF
2020-09-26
The Showdown
Open
1218.1
640.41
Location
USA-MO
Competition
The Showdown
Division
Open
Age
31
Equipment
Raw
Class
123.5
Weight
123.5
Squat
-463
463
485
485
Bench
270.1
281.1
292.1
292.1
Deadlift
440.9
-474
-474
440.9
GLP
131.35
1
WRPF
2019-10-19
Apeman Elite Open
Open
1256.6
613.64
Location
USA-CA
Competition
Apeman Elite Open
Division
Open
Age
30
Equipment
Raw
Class
148.8
Weight
138.7
Squat
463
496
-518.1
496
Bench
264.6
286.6
-297.6
286.6
Deadlift
440.9
474
-496
474
GLP
124.83
1
USPA
2019-08-03
The Tribute
Open
1278.7
659.24
Location
USA-TX
Competition
The Tribute
Division
Open
Age
30
Equipment
Raw
Class
132.3
Weight
127.2
Squat
507.1
Bench
292.1
Deadlift
479.5
GLP
134.82
1
WRPF
2019-04-27
Kern US Open
Open
1350.3
709.96
Location
USA-CA
Competition
Kern US Open
Division
Open
Age
30
Equipment
Wraps
Class
123.5
Weight
123.5
Squat
540.1
562.2
573.2
573.2
Bench
264.6
281.1
292.1
292.1
Deadlift
451.9
474
485
485
1
USPA
2018-08-25
The Tribute
Open
1245.6
630.33
Location
USA-TX
Competition
The Tribute
Division
Open
Age
29
Equipment
Raw
Class
132.3
Weight
131
Squat
485
Bench
286.6
Deadlift
474
GLP
128.61
1
USPA
2018-05-26
APEMAN Classic Powerlifting Championship
Open
1300.7
661.06
Location
USA-CA
Competition
APEMAN Classic Powerlifting Championship
Division
Open
Age
29
Equipment
Wraps
Class
132.3
Weight
130.1
Squat
562.2
Bench
275.6
Deadlift
463
1
USPA
2018-05-12
Kern US Open
Open
1240.1
635.79
Location
USA-CA
Competition
Kern US Open
Division
Open
Age
29
Equipment
Wraps
Class
132.3
Weight
128.3
Squat
529.1
Bench
281.1
Deadlift
429.9
1
WRPF
2017-10-28
Pro World Championships
Open
1146.4
580.12
Location
Russia-MOW
Competition
Pro World Championships
Division
Open
Age
28
Equipment
Wraps
Class
132.3
Weight
131
Squat
440.9
-485
-485
-485
440.9
Bench
242.5
264.6
275.6
-281.1
275.6
Deadlift
396.8
418.9
429.9
429.9
2
WRPF
2017-10-28
Pro World Championships
Open
275.6
139.45
Location
Russia-MOW
Competition
Pro World Championships
Division
Open
Age
28
Equipment
Raw
Class
132.3
Weight
131
Bench
242.5
264.6
275.6
-281.1
275.6
GLP
108.08
2
WRPF
2017-10-28
Pro World Championships
Open
429.9
217.55
Location
Russia-MOW
Competition
Pro World Championships
Division
Open
Age
28
Equipment
Raw
Class
132.3
Weight
131
Deadlift
396.8
418.9
429.9
429.9
1
WRPF
2017-08-25
Boss of Bosses 4
Pro FW-O
1201.5
604.16
Location
USA-CA
Competition
Boss of Bosses 4
Division
Pro FW-O
Age
28
Equipment
Wraps
Class
132.3
Weight
132.3
Squat
440.9
485
529.1
529.1
Bench
242.5
264.6
275.6
275.6
Deadlift
396.8
-451.9
-451.9
396.8
1
WRPF
2017-05-01
Asian Cup
Pro Open
1251.1
629.1
Location
Kazakhstan
Competition
Asian Cup
Division
Pro Open
Age
28
Equipment
Wraps
Class
132.3
Weight
132.3
Squat
463
496
529.1
551.2
551.2
Bench
253.5
275.6
281.1
-286.6
281.1
Deadlift
396.8
440.9
-451.9
-451.9
440.9
1
USPA
2017-04-15
CETC US Open Powerlifting Championships
Open
1223.6
622.52
Location
USA-CA
Competition
CETC US Open Powerlifting Championships
Division
Open
Age
28
Equipment
Wraps
Class
132.3
Weight
129.9
Squat
507.1
Bench
275.6
Deadlift
440.9
1
WRPF
2016-11-19
Pro World Championships
Open
407.9
215.2
Location
Russia-MOW
Competition
Pro World Championships
Division
Open
Age
27
Equipment
Raw
Class
123.5
Weight
122.8
Deadlift
407.9
407.9
1
WRPF
2016-11-19
Pro World Championships
Open
1091.3
575.81
Location
Russia-MOW
Competition
Pro World Championships
Division
Open
Age
27
Equipment
Wraps
Class
123.5
Weight
122.8
Squat
440.9
-485
-485
440.9
Bench
220.5
242.5
-253.5
253.5
253.5
Deadlift
396.8
407.9
-418.9
407.9
1
WRPF
2016-11-19
Pro World Championships
Open
253.5
133.77
Location
Russia-MOW
Competition
Pro World Championships
Division
Open
Age
27
Equipment
Raw
Class
123.5
Weight
122.8
Bench
253.5
253.5
GLP
104.03
1
NAP
2016-09-30
Golden Tiger 10
Pro Open
270.1
129.3
Location
Russia-SVE
Competition
Golden Tiger 10
Division
Pro Open
Age
27
Equipment
Raw
Class
148.8
Weight
143.3
Bench
220.5
253.5
270.1
270.1
GLP
100.51
1
GPA
2016-09-05
World Cup
Open
1014.1
521.09
Location
Georgia
Competition
World Cup
Division
Open
Age
27
Equipment
Wraps
Class
132.3
Weight
127.9
Squat
374.8
374.8
Bench
220.5
242.5
242.5
Deadlift
374.8
396.8
396.8
1
WRPF
2016-05-01
Pro Asian Cup
Open
1174
617.23
Location
Kazakhstan
Competition
Pro Asian Cup
Division
Open
Age
27
Equipment
Wraps
Class
123.5
Weight
123.5
Squat
485
Bench
259
Deadlift
429.9
1
WRPF
2015-12-03
World Championships
Pro Open
440.9
224.09
Location
Russia-MOW
Competition
World Championships
Division
Pro Open
Age
26
Equipment
Raw
Class
132.3
Weight
130.1
Deadlift
396.8
440.9
-463
440.9
2
WRPF
2015-12-03
World Championships
Pro Open
264.6
134.45
Location
Russia-MOW
Competition
World Championships
Division
Pro Open
Age
26
Equipment
Raw
Class
132.3
Weight
130.1
Bench
242.5
264.6
264.6
GLP
104.22
1
WRPF
2015-12-03
World Championships
Pro Open
1146.4
582.63
Location
Russia-MOW
Competition
World Championships
Division
Pro Open
Age
26
Equipment
Raw
Class
132.3
Weight
130.1
Squat
396.8
-440.9
440.9
-496
440.9
Bench
242.5
264.6
264.6
Deadlift
396.8
440.9
-463
440.9
GLP
118.94
1
WPC
2015-11-09
World Championships
F_OR_WPC
1135.4
573.32
Location
Portugal
Competition
World Championships
Division
F_OR_WPC
Age
26
Equipment
Raw
Class
132.3
Weight
131.4
Squat
418.9
451.9
-474
451.9
Bench
242.5
264.6
-275.6
264.6
Deadlift
396.8
418.9
-440.9
418.9
GLP
116.96
1
NAP
2015-10-16
Golden Tiger 9
Pro Open
1080.3
520.78
Location
Russia-SVE
Competition
Golden Tiger 9
Division
Pro Open
Age
26
Equipment
Wraps
Class
148.8
Weight
141.6
Squat
396.8
440.9
440.9
Bench
242.5
264.6
264.6
Deadlift
352.7
374.8
374.8
1
NAP
2015-10-16
Golden Tiger 9
Pro Open
440.9
212.56
Location
Russia-SVE
Competition
Golden Tiger 9
Division
Pro Open
Age
26
Equipment
Wraps
Class
148.8
Weight
141.6
Squat
396.8
440.9
440.9
1
NAP
2015-10-16
Golden Tiger 9
Pro Open
374.8
180.68
Location
Russia-SVE
Competition
Golden Tiger 9
Division
Pro Open
Age
26
Equipment
Raw
Class
148.8
Weight
141.6
Deadlift
352.7
374.8
374.8
1
WPC-KAZ
2015-05-02
Mega Cup
O
1157.4
581.99
Location
Kazakhstan
Competition
Mega Cup
Division
O
Age
26
Equipment
Wraps
Class
132.3
Weight
132.3
Squat
396.8
440.9
463
463
Bench
231.5
253.5
-264.6
253.5
Deadlift
396.8
440.9
440.9
1
WPC-KAZ
2015-04-28
Asia Challenge
O
242.5
121.94
Location
Kazakhstan
Competition
Asia Challenge
Division
O
Age
26
Equipment
Raw
Class
132.3
Weight
132.3
Bench
220.5
242.5
-264.6
242.5
GLP
94.5
1
WPC-KAZ
2015-04-28
Asia Challenge
O
1102.3
554.27
Location
Kazakhstan
Competition
Asia Challenge
Division
O
Age
26
Equipment
Wraps
Class
132.3
Weight
132.3
Squat
396.8
440.9
440.9
Bench
220.5
242.5
-264.6
242.5
Deadlift
396.8
418.9
418.9
1
WPC-KAZ
2015-04-28
Asia Challenge
O
418.9
210.62
Location
Kazakhstan
Competition
Asia Challenge
Division
O
Age
26
Equipment
Raw
Class
132.3
Weight
132.3
Deadlift
396.8
418.9
418.9
1
WPC
2014-11-10
World Championships
F_OR_WPC
1124.4
567.76
Location
USA-FL
Competition
World Championships
Division
F_OR_WPC
Age
25
Equipment
Raw
Class
132.3
Weight
131.4
Squat
396.8
440.9
451.9
451.9
Bench
220.5
242.5
253.5
253.5
Deadlift
374.8
396.8
418.9
418.9
GLP
115.82
1
WPC
2014-11-10
World Championships
F_OR_WPC
352.7
177.74
Location
USA-FL
Competition
World Championships
Division
F_OR_WPC
Age
25
Equipment
Raw
Class
132.3
Weight
131.8
Deadlift
286.6
352.7
352.7
1
NAP
2014-10-17
World Championships & Golden Tiger 8
Pro Open
440.9
221.71
Location
Russia-SVE
Competition
World Championships & Golden Tiger 8
Division
Pro Open
Age
25
Equipment
Wraps
Class
132.3
Weight
132.3
Squat
-396.8
396.8
440.9
440.9
1
NAP
2014-10-17
World Championships & Golden Tiger 8
Pro Open
396.8
199.54
Location
Russia-SVE
Competition
World Championships & Golden Tiger 8
Division
Pro Open
Age
25
Equipment
Raw
Class
132.3
Weight
132.3
Deadlift
-374.8
374.8
396.8
396.8
1
NAP
2014-10-17
World Championships & Golden Tiger 8
Pro Open
1080.3
543.19
Location
Russia-SVE
Competition
World Championships & Golden Tiger 8
Division
Pro Open
Age
25
Equipment
Wraps
Class
132.3
Weight
132.3
Squat
-396.8
396.8
440.9
440.9
Bench
220.5
231.5
242.5
242.5
Deadlift
-374.8
374.8
396.8
396.8
1
WPC
2013-10-26
World Championship
F_OR_WPC
948
476.67
Location
Czechia
Competition
World Championship
Division
F_OR_WPC
Age
24
Equipment
Raw
Class
132.3
Weight
132.3
Squat
-374.8
-374.8
374.8
374.8
Bench
176.4
198.4
-220.5
198.4
Deadlift
352.7
374.8
-396.8
374.8
GLP
97.2
1
KPF
2013-04-25
Kazakhstan Classic Powerlifting and Bench Press Championships
Open
903.9
470.28
Location
Kazakhstan
Competition
Kazakhstan Classic Powerlifting and Bench Press Championships
Division
Open
Age
24
Equipment
Raw
Class
125.7
Weight
125.4
Squat
363.8
Bench
187.4
Deadlift
352.7
GLP
96.3
1
KPF
2013-03-13
Kazakhstan Powerlifting Cup
Open
970
505.56
Location
Kazakhstan
Competition
Kazakhstan Powerlifting Cup
Division
Open
Age
24
Equipment
Single-ply
Class
125.7
Weight
125.1
Squat
-440.9
440.9
440.9
Bench
176.4
198.4
-220.5
198.4
Deadlift
330.7
-369.3
-369.3
330.7
GLP
84.57
Data Source: Open Powerlifting. Last Updated: April 12, 2023
Analyze Lifts
Related: Watch Powerlifter Marianna Gasparyan Dismantle 235kg/517lb Squat For 5 Reps
Brianny Terry
Brianny Terry’s path to her IFBB Pro Card was a bit tighter than Marianna Gasparyan, as she was not able to win her division. However, to Brianny’s luck, she placed second in Women’s Physique, which was enough for her to become a professional bodybuilder.
Like Marianna Gasparyan, Brianny Terry has also left a massive mark in powerlifting. However, she took part in only ten competitions, but recorded seven impressive victories. Brianny’s legacy was further solidified by her incredible deadlift strength, which she often displayed in competition, as well as in her training sessions. At the moment, it is not clear if Brianny plans on returning to powerlifting.
Brianny Terry started competing in bodybuilding just last year and immediately landed a victory at the 2023 NPC Dallas Championships. She then finished in fourth place at the 2022 NPC USA Championships. So, she jumped up two places this year to earn her IFBB Pro card.
Brianny Terry’s Powerlifting History
Personal Bests
Equip
Squat
Bench
Deadlift
Total
Dots
Raw
501.6
292.1
501.6
1388.9
600.51
Wraps
518.1
270.1
518.1
1351.4
597.34
Competition Results
Place
Fed
Date
Competition
Division
Total
Dots
1
WRPF
2022-12-04
PPC Finals
Open
1388.9
592.15
Location
USA-CA
Competition
PPC Finals
Division
Open
Age
26
Equipment
Raw
Class
181.9
Weight
177.3
Squat
463
485
501.6
501.6
Bench
264.6
275.6
281.1
281.1
Deadlift
573.2
595.2
606.3
606.3
GLP
121.12
1
WRPF
2021-09-25
The Bucked Up Showdown
Open
1366.9
600.51
Location
USA-MO
Competition
The Bucked Up Showdown
Division
Open
Age
25
Equipment
Raw
Class
181.9
Weight
167.1
Squat
474
-501.6
-501.6
474
Bench
275.6
292.1
-303.1
292.1
Deadlift
567.7
600.8
-606.3
600.8
GLP
122.39
1
WRPF
2021-02-20
Hybrid Showdown III
Open
1340.4
592.18
Location
USA-FL
Competition
Hybrid Showdown III
Division
Open
Equipment
Raw
Class
165.3
Weight
165.3
Squat
424.4
451.9
479.5
479.5
Bench
253.5
275.6
-286.6
275.6
Deadlift
545.6
585.3
585.3
GLP
120.63
2
SPF
2019-11-09
Slingshot Record Breakers
Open
1351.4
597.34
Location
USA-CA
Competition
Slingshot Record Breakers
Division
Open
Age
22
Equipment
Wraps
Class
165.3
Weight
165.2
Squat
474
501.6
518.1
518.1
Bench
253.5
270.1
-286.6
270.1
Deadlift
529.1
563.3
-586.4
563.3
2
WRPF
2019-04-27
Kern US Open
Open
1258.8
556.53
Location
USA-CA
Competition
Kern US Open
Division
Open
Age
22
Equipment
Wraps
Class
165.3
Weight
165.1
Squat
413.4
440.9
468.5
468.5
Bench
231.5
-248
-248
231.5
Deadlift
496
529.1
558.9
558.9
1
USPA
2019-01-19
PDX Winter Open
Open
534.6
236.19
Location
USA-OR
Competition
PDX Winter Open
Division
Open
Age
22
Equipment
Raw
Class
165.3
Weight
165.3
Deadlift
534.6
8
SPF
2018-11-10
Slingshot Record Breakers
Open
1107.8
489.98
Location
USA-CA
Competition
Slingshot Record Breakers
Division
Open
Age
22
Equipment
Raw
Class
165.3
Weight
165
Squat
352.7
-385.8
385.8
385.8
Bench
203.9
220.5
-237
220.5
Deadlift
451.9
501.6
501.6
GLP
99.8
1
USPA
2018-04-28
Kabuki Strength Classic
Juniors 20-23
964.5
426.12
Location
USA-OR
Competition
Kabuki Strength Classic
Division
Juniors 20-23
Age
21
Equipment
Raw
Class
165.3
Weight
165.3
Squat
352.7
Bench
187.4
Deadlift
424.4
GLP
86.8
1
USPA
2018-04-28
Kabuki Strength Classic
Open
964.5
426.12
Location
USA-OR
Competition
Kabuki Strength Classic
Division
Open
Age
21
Equipment
Raw
Class
165.3
Weight
165.3
Squat
352.7
Bench
187.4
Deadlift
424.4
GLP
86.8
1
USPA
2017-12-02
Western Regionals
Juniors 20-23
865.3
383.37
Location
USA-OR
Competition
Western Regionals
Division
Juniors 20-23
Age
21
Equipment
Raw
Class
165.3
Weight
164.5
Squat
314.2
Bench
187.4
Deadlift
363.8
GLP
78.08
Data Source: Open Powerlifting. Last Updated: April 12, 2023
Analyze Lifts
Related: Powerlifter Brianny Terry Impresses at 2022 Olympia Expo With 500-lb (226.8-kg) Deadlift For 10 Reps
Although Marianna Gasparyan has not yet revealed her plans for the future, Brianny Terry has already updated her competition calendar. She plans to continue training and make her Pro Bodybuilding debut in 2025. According to her Instagram, Brianny is giving herself a significant time period to improve, as competing against the professionals will be a significantly more difficult challenge.
Apart from Marianna Gasparyan and Brianny Terry, a few more notable names have shown interest in both powerlifting and bodybuilding. Even Larry Wheels, a powerlifting World Record holder, is now aiming to compete in the Classic Bodybuilding division and secure his Pro card as well. Hunter Henderson has also reached the top in both powerlifting and bodybuilding, having secured her IFBB Pro card back in 2021. Interestingly, Hunter has also found success in a third sport — Strongwoman.
Published: 1 August, 2023 | 9:38 PM EDT
Eddie Hall Crushes Surprise Pro Wrestling Debut
English Strongman icon Eddie Hall is renowned for his freakish strength. Following his retirement from strongman competition, he became well-known in the fitness community for his athletic abilities. In a recent video uploaded on his YouTube channel, Hall surprised his son and fans by making his pro wrestling debut at Megaslam in the UK.
Eddie Hall first rose to prominence for his incredible feats of strength in the 2010s. He made a name for himself dominating the regional UK circuit, winning several UK’s Strongest Man, Britain’s Strongest Man, and England’s Strongest Man, from 2010 to 2018. Hall qualified for the World’s Strongest Man contest for the first time in 2012. He secured the coveted title at the 2017 WSM by beating fellow legends Hafthor Bjornsson and Brian Shaw. In July 2016, Hall created history by becoming the first athlete to score an insane 500-kg (1,102-pound) conventional deadlift.
Since stepping away from Strongman, Hall tested out an array of different sports. He clashed with Bjornsson in the boxing ring to settle their heated rivalry in March 2022. The 6’2” behemoth lost a considerable amount of weight to prepare for the showdown but eventually lost by unanimous decision.
Hall set his sights on bodybuilding after witnessing the likes of former two-time champion Mamdouh ‘Big Ramy’ Elssbiay and four-time Classic Physique king Chris Bumstead at the 2022 Mr. Olympia. Their performances inspired him to make a splash in competitive bodybuilding.
‘The Beast’ took guidance from IFBB Pro Jamie Christian-Johal, who stands at a massive 6’5″, for a brutal back workout in preparation for his switch to bodybuilding. Then, he enlisted the help of legendary bodybuilder Jay Cutler, a four-time Mr. Olympia, to learn his techniques for developing a wide and thick back.
Powerlifting sensation Larry Wheels is another fitness personality looking to make his move to bodybuilding in the Classic Physique division. Considering their common goal, Hall and Wheels trained together to refine their shoulder development.
Eddie Hall took advantage of a collaborative workout session with seven-time Men’s 212 division Flex Lewis to learn more about training arms and left the fans in awe with an impressive physique update. Then, Hall focused on his posing abilities under professional bodybuilding posing coach Emma Heineman while gearing up for his debut.
Eddie Hall Crushes Surprise Pro Wrestling Debut
In a recent YouTube video, Eddie Hall surprised his son and the fans by making his pro wrestling debut at Megaslam in the UK.
Hall participated in the Royal Rumble and came out on top of the contest. He left the fans stunned by smashing his opponents inside the ring and living up to a heel character. He was held by a wrestler at one point but managed to push his way out of it.
Eddie Hall got the opportunity to be featured in the upcoming Expendables 4. He was seen in the trailer being launched over the bar by legendary filmmaker Sylvester Stallone.
Hall gave fans a look into his preparations with a ‘round pecs’ physique update ahead of his bodybuilding debut. He followed that up by showing off his much leaner physique in another update where he tipped the scales at 385 pounds. He also indicated plans to start his cutting phase in a few weeks.
RELATED: Eddie Hall Reacts to Hilarious Gym Fails: ‘Nearly Crushed Her Head & Died’
The latest update goes to show Hall’s openness to trying out different disciplines. Fans look forward to seeing him hit a bodybuilding stage soon.
You can watch the full video below.
Published: 1 August, 2023 | 4:50 PM EDT
7x Mr. Olympia Phil Heath To Be Inducted Into International Sports Hall of Fame in 2024
Former Mr. Olympia Phil Heath continues to stack up wins in retirement. In a recent Instagram reel, the former seven-time Mr. Olympia revealed that he will be inducted into the International Sports Hall of Fame in 2024 following his contributions to bodybuilding.
En route to building a lifetime legacy, Heath proved himself to be among the best in the world, pushing top names in the sport like Jay Cutler, Dexter Jackson, Mamdouh ‘Big Ramy’ Elssbiay, and Brandon Curry. Heath was celebrated for his freaky muscle fullness, striations, and overall conditioning. His last contest saw him take third at the Mr. Olympia show in 2020, won by Big Ramy.
The International Sports Hall of Fame (ISHOF) is a prestigious organization that recognizes and honors the most exceptional and influential athletes and sports figures in history. This non-profit organization was founded in 2012 by Dr. Robert M. Goldman.
The ISHOF’s advisory board selects five to seven inductees each year based on their achievements and impact in their respective sports. In addition, the ISHOF induction ceremonies are held annually at the Arnold Sports Festival, the second-largest and most popular fitness event in the world behind only Mr. Olympia.
International Sports Hall of Fame Will Honor Bodybuilding Legend Phil Heath in 2024
Heath shared the phone call on video and was blown away after hearing he would join five other Mr. Olympia winners, which included Arnold Schwarzenegger, Franco Columbu, Lee Haney, Ronnie Coleman, and Jay Cutler.
“Holy smokes,” said Phil Heath.
“You’ll be joining five other Mr. Olympia winners which include Arnold Schwarzenegger, Franco Columbu, Lee Haney, Ronnie Coleman, and Jay Culter. You will be our sixth Mr. Olympia inducted,” shared the Senior Vice President of the International Sports Hall of Fame.
“Outstanding man, wow, thank you so much,” replied Heath.
“You will forever be enshrined at the University of Texas Art Center. On behalf of our international Hall of Fame and Doctor Goldman congratulations my friend.
Despite stepping away from the stage, Heath’s love for the sport fuels him still, whether it’s a training session or his duties as a commentator at the recent 2022 Mr. Olympia show. Even though Heath has done it all and tied with Schwarzenegger in Sandow trophies, he continues to tease a possible comeback. Last month, ‘The Gift’ made it clear he could return to a contest outside of the Mr. Olympia.
Heath has taken considerable measures to preserve his physique while away from competition. One of the last times fans heard from him, he talked about recovery medications he’s using to stay healthy but emphasized that they were going to put him ‘in the best position to win.’ While his comeback is uncertain, fans can look forward to seeing Heath accept the honor center stage in 2024.
Aside from Heath, it was revealed in February that strongman legend Hafthor Bjornsson was inducted into the ISHOF as part of the 2023 class. He is widely considered one of the most prolific strongmen to ever compete and still holds the official deadlift record of 1,104 pounds.
RELATED: 7X Mr. Olympia Phil Heath Teaches NFL Hall of Famer Shannon Sharpe How To Train Like A Bodybuilder
Heath continues to add to his mantle in retirement. Even if he never comes back to compete, his legacy will live on as one of the most impressive of this generation.
Published: 1 August, 2023 | 1:39 PM EDT
Jay Cutler Mike O’Hearn Talk Rep Ranges, Light vs Heavy Weight, & Time Spent in Gym
Jay Cutler and Mike O’Hearn have built physiques that many of us dream of having. Cutler cemented himself as a four-time Mr. Olympia champion during his bodybuilding tenure. Former Mr. Universe winner O’Hearn continues to influence the fitness sector with his shredded build. In a recent YouTube collaboration, Cutler and O’Hearn talked about the best rep ranges, light versus heavy weight, and time spent in the gym for reaching physique goals.
Despite moving on from the stage in 2013, Jay Cutler remains committed to his physique and bodybuilding. Last year, he revealed that he was undergoing a physique transformation. He left a competitive return off the table but said he was rebuilding his body as part of a fitness goal before turning 50 years old.
Cutler has kept fans updated on his body transformation and targeted 6-8% body fat. He’s opened up about training, nutrition, performance-enhancing drug use, and mindset as he’s embarked on the challenge. The former Olympia titleholder also revealed a clean bill of health days after the death of the late Gustavo Badell.
Mike O’Hearn is a fitness icon, revered for his yolked body and longevity. He’s remained ripped for over 30 years and is known for taking an eclectic yet calculated approach to training. Previously, he’s offered exercise demonstrations based on knowledge passed on from stars of the sport such as Tom Platz and Kai Greene.
Jay Cutler, Mike O’Hearn Talk Stimulating Deep Muscle Fibers, Training Strategies & Mindset
According to Cutler, any time he’s at the gym, each body part requires at least 20 sets, which are typically performed with six different exercises. Cutler doesn’t believe in warm up sets but uses ‘feel sets’ to get started in the gym.
“If I choose six exercises to do with my workout which is standard. I might do three, four, five sets of those each. No matter what the workout I’m doing, I’m doing 20 sets per body part. Does that make sense? That may or may not include feel sets. I hate warm up sets. I don’t use that term,” said Jay Cutler. “Feel sets.”
“I agree, it doesn’t fatigue you or get you all pumped up,” said Mike O’Hearn.
“What it does, it’s a set up set, your grip, focus, body position, it’s a plane you’re pushing through. You have that position, that’s the set up. It’s called the set up. That’s how I use – I say feel sets so there’s a lot of meaning in that.”
Even though Cutler has a reputation for always practicing 12 reps, he says that’s not always the case. Instead of focusing on reps or set numbers, his chief concern is the quality of each contraction.
“You can kind of put your body in motion, okay this is how I’m going to power through because I’m only thinking about okay what is my peak contractive set of this? Not a weight. Your weights determined when you get to that, say okay, what is my point of doing this?”
“So repetitions don’t matter. You’re thinking fiber, fiber control. Like where are we going – how much fibers are we going to – I don’t want to say tear, it scares people, tearing is not, but how much fiber are we going to bring into this movement because we are going to stimulate those fibers, right? said Jay Cutler.
“When Jay Cutler says 12 reps, everything should be 12 reps, I’m lying because I can do six, I can do eight, I can do four and still get stimulation and I’ll sometimes stop,” said Cutler. “I feel people shortchange themselves.”
As for O’Hearn, he believes people make the mistake of ‘blasting through’ reps with the intention of completing the set. However, they neglect time under tension and mind-muscle connection by not slowing the movement to feel the burn.
“One of the biggest things for me is if you say, I wish people would listen and watch, there’s a difference between what our belief is like do one rep at a time until you get to 10-12. But I find if I say to people, ‘Hey do 10.’ They went from lifting a plate one or two times slow and controlled a nice contraction, there was a meaning there, to just 10 reps, they just blast though it,” Mike O’Hearn shared.
“Number one tip, when you’re not in the zone, don’t expect to be 95, 100%. We trained more just sometimes more to just go through the motions,” added Cutler.
Cutler on Achieving a Dream Physique: ‘There’s a lot of Thought Process That Goes Into It’
To achieve a dream physique, the four-time Mr. Olympia underlined the value of training the mind. He also stressed that sculpting a next-level body was a detailed effort that demands finesse.
“I started with the mental mindset that weight training put me in. When I got under that bar or I was under you know the pearls and just my mind-to-muscle connection was just no stress yeah. The gym was my game, it was how I kept myself sane right? You have to love it. I’m not sure that everyone today loves it. They might have a dream to look a certain way. You have to eat, sleep, and breath it.”
“Everything is strategic. I can go through my workouts in my mind as I’m walking in the gym. I’m visually like I’m going to do this this and this and that’s how I foresee it. it’s not like I’m walking to the gym and picking up a bar. There’s a lot of thought process that goes into it. It’s surgical,” said Cutler.
Before ending the discussion, Cutler shared that he’ll turn 50 next week and has experienced zero joint pain since retirement.
“I don’t have to be in the gym seven days a week. I don’t get paid to work out any longer,” added Cutler. “I have zero joint pain, zero restriction. I feel like this could all start again. I’ll be 50 next week. It’s the best part of my day.”
“I still deadlift every week, I don’t go crazy but I never did either.”
With Cutler closing in on his ‘Fit-for-50’ physique goal, he’s been transparent about his diet lately. In a recent JayCutlerTV YouTube video, the Massachusetts native revealed that his appetite has been ‘through the roof’ in the final leg of his journey without using ‘heavy’ anabolic steroids.
O’Hearn, meanwhile, continues to impart training wisdom to his fanbase. He took to a video where he explained the number one mistake new lifters make at the gym. Given how many people he’s seen injure themselves, O’Hearn believes it’s important to take exercising seriously and to approach it aggressively.
Whether it was rep ranges, lifting heavy versus light weight, or stimulating muscle fibers, Cutler and O’Hearn were able to find some common ground. When building a dream physique, they both agree it takes a comprehensive and calculated effort.
RELATED: Jay Cutler on Mike O’Hearn and The Rock Being Natural: ‘If They Choose Not To Talk About It, I Respect That’
You can watch the full video from Mike O’Hearn’s YouTube channel below:
Published: 1 August, 2023 | 11:59 AM EDT
Strongwoman Inez Carrasquillo Locks Out 550-lb (249.5-kg) Deadlift PR In Training
The Strongwoman sport is thriving like never before, thanks to the incredible talent and skill displayed by numerous awe-inspiring women. It is impossible to pick out a single greatest Strongwoman currently, but Inez Carrasquillo is definitely in contention for that title. This athlete competing under the flag of Costa Rica sits at or near the top of leaderboards for all events, making her one of the most complete athletes overall. However, Inez obviously has something big in the woodwork since she has just revealed a new personal record in an event which is not usually the greatest for her — the deadlift. During a recent training session, Inez loaded 550 pounds (249.5 kilograms) and deadlifted it successfully for a new PR.
Inez Carrasquillo has long waited for this deadlift PR, as her previous one came around three years ago, as per her Instagram story. It was also 5 pounds (2.3 kilograms) lighter than her new PR, meaning that her performance has improved significantly.
Inez Carrasquillo set her new 550-pound (249.5-kilogram) deadlift PR with a conventional stance. Moreover, she only used a lifting belt and lifting straps. For reference, her greatest lift with a deadlift suit is 580 pounds (263 kilograms).
Watch the deadlift here:
Related: Strongwoman Inez Carrasquillo Sets A 315 lbs (142.9 kg) Unofficial Log Clean & Press World Record
Although she just set a new deadlift PR, Inez Carrasquillo’s greatest strength is her pressing power. She displayed this when she competed in and won the 2023 Rainier Classic. One of the events there was the Max Log Lift which is where she set a new World Record of 145.8 kilograms (321.4 pounds). With that lift, Inez absolutely demolished the previous record, outperforming it by over 10 pounds (4.5 kilograms).
Although Inez Carrasquillo just set a new PR, she already possessed incredible deadlift power from her powerlifting days. However, she did not spend too much time in powerlifting, leaving the sport after taking part in three sanctioned competitions, and winning all of them.
When Inez Carrasquillo moved to Strongwoman, she found inspiration in the 2x World’s Strongest Man, Tom Stoltman. Both Inez and Tom are Autistic, and witnessing Tom’s achievements in the sport-inspired Inez to strive for the same level of success.
Inez Carrasquillo has already achieved incredible things in the sport, having won the 2022 Arnold Amateur Strongwoman World Championships, the 2022 Beerstone, 2022 & 2023 Rainier Classics, and more. She also placed third at the 2022 World’s Strongest Woman competition.
Related: Strongwoman Inez Carrasquillo Hits Front Squat PR of 350 Lbs (158.8 kg) + 60 Lbs (27.2 kg) In Chains
It’s not yet clear how many competitions Inez Carrasquillo will participate in for the rest of the year. However, she has already been confirmed as a member of Team USA for the 2023 World’s Strongest Nation competition. However, Inez is also set to make an appearance at the 2023 World’s Strongest Woman competition, hoping to improve her placing from last year.
Published: 1 August, 2023 | 10:04 AM EDT