Tag: nEWS
Berry De Mey Reveals The Industry Change That Brought Him Back To Bodybuilding
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After retiring from competing, Berry De Mey completely removed himself from the world of bodybuilding… until a big change brought him back.
These days, Berry De Mey is most notable as a coach and bodybuilding commentator/influencer compared to his prime competitive days. But his journey from competitive bodybuilder to coach is more complicated than most may know. In fact, De Mey had a period of his life where he left the bodybuilding world behind completely in favor of photography. What brought him back into the coach we know today? In our latest GI Exclusive interview, Berry De Mey details the key change in the bodybuilding industry that brought him back to the sport.
Berry De Mey’s journey through bodybuilding is more complicated than most know. Though today he stands tall as a successful coach, online bodybuilding commentator, and IFBB Pro Hall of Famer – his journey contained many ups and downs. After some time competing in the IFBB Pro league, De Mey left in favor of Vince McMahon’s ill-fated WBF league. That failed after a very short tenure. Luckily, De Mey was allowed back into the IFBB Pro league once WBF ended.
Berry De Mey then competed for a few more years before retiring from the sport. Upon retiring, De Mey did something atypical for most elite competitors – he left the world of bodybuilding completely. He enrolled into a college to focus on photography – and believed that this would be his new life path.
As we know today, he eventually returned to the world of bodybuilding and made a name for himself as a coach. What happened? After studying photography, Berry De Mey went to the FIBO expo in Europe. This was a fitness expo that was quickly growing into one of the largest in the world. De Mey noticed a very encouraging change in the bodybuilding industry at that expo. Based on its size and the kind of folks who were expressing interest, it became clear that bodybuilding had hit mainstream culture.
Berry De Mey realized that bodybuilding mentality entered the more general fitness world. And fitness as a whole became more popular globally. For De Mey, this was a key indication that he could make a true living in bodybuilding – but in a more healthy way than pro competing. He could start his own coaching business that not only caters to competitors but also “average folk” looking to become more fit and healthy.
This all circles back around to Berry De Mey’s more recent comments on pro bodybuilding as a whole. He believes that the competitive side has become too dangerous with increasingly bigger and stronger doses of PEDs being used. But as natural bodybuilding leagues and the wider general fitness community shows us – there is a way to achieve incredible sculpted physiques without endangering your health to that degree.
De Mey has spoken out about the many too-soon deaths that hit our sport over the past year and a half. He’s spoken out about his worry of how the most massive physiques are being rewarded – such as Big Ramy and Nick Walker. These comments all tie into why he got back into bodybuilding and coaching in the first place. He believes a bodybuilding lifestyle can be healthy and enjoyed by all.
You can watch Berry De Mey’s full comments in our latest GI Exclusive interview segment above!
Luke Richardson Re-Injured Left Bicep In Recent Training Session
Luke Richardson ruptured the same bicep while lifting Atlas stones.
Luke Richardson has been training for what could have been a big year in 2022. He was ready to compete during the 2022 Europe’s Strongest Man competition but re-injured his left bicep during a training session lifting Atlas stones.
Richardson shared the video on his Instagram page. The first lift was accomplished easily before Richardson injured his arm on the second. You can hear the snap of his bicep when the injury occurred. Richardson knew right away and dropped the stone before going off camera.
“On Friday I re-ruptured my bicep. I don’t often feel sorry for myself, I just accept things and get on with it. But after allowing it plenty of time to recover and to be rehabbed properly it’s a bitter pill to swallow. ⠀⠀To those who have supported me and genuinely wanted to see me do well irrespective of how relevant I’ve been at any given time, I sincerely thank you. I’ll be back, one way or another.”
Luke Richardson won the 2020 Europe’s Strongest Man competition. He has a bright future at just 24 years old but this injury will set him back a bit. Richardson was forced to withdraw from the World’s Strongest Man event last year due to the same injury.
A GoFundMe page was setup to pay for Richardson’s surgery by fellow strongman Graham Hicks. This surgery would cost $6,700 if he wanted to see a top doctor. It did not take long to raise this money as the page collected $8,700 in the first night. Any extra money will go toward rehab and therapy following Richardson’s surgery. He will not visit a doctor who has worked on both Hicks and Adam Bishop.
This is a long recovery for Luke Richardson, who unfortunately knows about rehabbing from this type of injury. Richardson returned to Instagram to thank those who have been part of this process. While it has not been an easy road, Richardson is a promising strongman who can have a long, successful career when healthy.
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Nick Walker Trains Chest With New Coach Dom Supersliced
Nick Walker trains chest with new coach.
Nick Walker and his new coach Dom Supersliced recently underwent an intense chest training day. The two pushed their training hard in hopes of getting Walker to the next level.
Having the right coach can be the difference between success and failure in competitive sports. The right coach can put you on a proper schedule, enhance your performance and become the best version of yourself. The wrong coach can completely throw you off your game and have you suffering diminishing results.
Then there are coaches that have been great to an athlete, who’s been in their corner for a long time. But sometimes the athlete needs a different look to help them get to an even higher level. For Nick Walker it appears that the latter is true.
After having an impressive rookie year, Nick Walker has established himself as the potential future of the division. His victory at the 2021 Arnold Classic showcased just how dominant he can be in the Men’s Open division. Taking fifth place at the 2021 Olympia also showed how much potential Walker has for becoming a potential future bodybuilding king.
But while Nick Walker had tremendous success in his rookie year with his coach Matt Jansen, the 2021 Arnold Classic champion has decided to switch coaches. His new coach Dom Supersliced is hoping to take Walker to a whole new level. The two are wasting no time in getting to work and are pushing hard in the gym.
Chest Day Training
Nick Walker and Dom Supersliced just recently underwent an intense chest day training.
What do you think about Nick Walker training with his new coach Dom Supersliced?
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
News and Editorial Writer at Generation Iron, Jonathan Salmon is a writer, martial arts instructor, and geek culture enthusiast. Check out his YouTube, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and Sound Cloud for in-depth MMA analysis.
Arely Ayala Is the First International Natural Bodybuilder to Sign a Multi-media Contract
Mexico’s Natural Olympia Bikini Angels champion Arely Ayala is the first international natural bodybuilder to sign a multi-media contract with Generation Iron, INBA PNBA, and Iron Man Magazine.
Reigning Mexico’s Natual Olympia 2021 Bikini Angels champion, Arely Ayala, has become the first international natural bodybuilder to sign a multi-media contract with Generation Iron, International Natural Bodybuilding Association (INBA)/Professional Natural Bodybuilding Association (PNBA), and Iron Man Magazine. Arely Ayala received a silver medal in the Bikini Divas category at the 2021 Natural Olympia. The INBA PNBA released a statement on social media expressing their appreciation. The INBA PNBA stated:
“Congratulations @arelyayala.hc of @inba_mexico The 1st International Athlete to sign a Multi-Media Contract with the
@inbapnbaglobal_official
@generationiron
@ironmanmagazine
Well deserved @arelyayala.hc
INBA PNBA Elite Natural Athletes will be recognized globally on authoritative platforms and as ICONS of the Natural Bodybuilding Industry.
@inbapnbaglobal_official Global Leaders in Natural Bodybuilding continue to create opportunity and outlets to “Serve The Elite Natural Athlete”
Arely Ayala voiced her gratitude, stating:
“Hi everyone, today is a very special day that I want to share with you. I have been selected to sign a multi-media contract with PNBA, Generation Iron, and Iron Man Magazine. This is a great opportunity for me and all the international athletes. I want to thank all the Kukos family – Denny, Denise, Dianne – and Mexico for trusting in me from the beginning. Let’s do it! Viva Mexico!”
Below is an IG clip of INBA PNBA’s complete statement and Arely Ayala signing the contract.
https://www.instagram.com/reel/CafzP6Wl0qr/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
Multi-media Contract Benefits
Signing a contract with these three companies comes with its benefits. You’ll have to be an INBA PNBA athlete in good standing with the league to be eligible for signing. Each natural athlete should be seeking professional growth and abide by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) guidelines. Competitors bound in the contract can expect to receive more spotlight. They’ll get promotions, brand building (digital media write-ups, social media posts, photoshoots), special guest appearances, posing, and seminar sessions. Also, athletes will receive Iron Man Magazine nutrition ads and endorsements.
According to the INBA PNBA, the contract is:
“An opportunity for a natural bodybuilding athlete to acquire renown and recognition in the sport of natural bodybuilding, exploiting association’s promotional campaign via the Iron Man Magazine, news and events, and the Generation Iron platform.”
Arely Ayala and Natural Bodybuilding
Arely Ayala started competing in bodybuilding in 2018 at Mr. Sonora, where she won the rookie fitness bikini championship. She collected her pro card in 2019 at the international event in California.
When Arely Ayala isn’t competing, she’s a health coach, teacher, and earning a doctorate in educational administration.
Arely Ayala competes in the Bikini Angels and Bikini Divas divisions. Although these divisions sound similar, they have some distinct differences. Bikini Divas scoring focuses more on muscularity and definition. However, contenders in the Bikini Angels category aren’t judged entirely on their body – personality and confidence are essential factors in the judging process.
Generation Iron congratulates Arely Ayala for signing her multi-media contract! We wish you good luck in the upcoming 2022 season!
Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for the latest INBA PNBA news!
Oleksii Novikov Is Raising Money To Help Ukrainian Soldiers Fighting Against Russia
Oleksii Novikov is using the money to go toward food, medical supplies, and equipment.
Oleksii Novikov is making sure to provide help to his country of Ukraine as it continues to fight against Russian attacks. The former World’s Strongest Man winner used his social media as a platform to request help from others in the form of financial donations.
Novikov currently has 133k followers Instagram. This is where he posted a video asking for help to provide Ukrainian soldiers with food, water, medical supplies, and equipment during this time. He added a screenshot of a bank account with instructions on how to send money and explaining where it would be going.
“Sending cryptocurrency is as easy as choosing the amount to send and deciding where it goes. One way to send bitcoin, then, is to simply copy the recipient’s address to your clipboard, then paste it in the send field.”
Russian President Vladimir Putin called for the invasion of Ukraine last week. That same day, Ukrainian President Vlodymyr Zelensky declared the area in a state of emergency. Putin claimed the next day that the decision was a preventive measure against the North Atlantic Treaty Organization’s expansion into Eastern Europe. However, Ukraine is not part of the NATO.
This is being considered the most significant attack against a sovereign nation in Europe since World War II. Now, many are beginning to help soldiers and this includes Novikov, who is preparing to get back on stage and compete.
Oleksii Novikov is scheduled to appear at the 2022 Arnold Strongman Classic on March 4-5 in Columbus, OH. This event will feature some of the top strongmen in the world and Novikov will be one of the big names present. He is one of three World’s Strongest Man winners that will compete, along with Tom Stoltman and Martins Licis. Mateusz Kieliszkowski will also be present in Columbus as a two-time WSM runner-up. Licis began his training for the event back in December and will look to put on quite a show.
Oleksii Novikov continues to be an elite strongman and he is using his platform to help his country of Ukraine. This is good work from the strongman as the battle against Russia continues. Ukrainian soldiers will hopefully have the necessary assets needed moving forward.
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Roelly Winklaar is Looking Considerably Downsized
Roelly Winklaar has lost some mass.
Roelly Winklaar is looking very downsized in a recent update. The veteran bodybuilder has lost a considerable amount of mass since his last day m stage performance.
Carrying around a considerable amount of muscle on your frame isn’t particularly healthy. It’s one of the reasons so many people refuse to become bodybuilders. The health risks involved are just a bit insurmountable for the average Joe. Those in the Men’s Open division in particular pack pounds and pounds of mass onto their frames.
The recent rash of deaths in the bodybuilding community has been causing major concerns. Even the relatively younger Antoine Vaillant has had to deal with recent health scares. One can only imagine that it has to do with the profession that these competitors are in.
Roelly Winklaar however appears to be going for a different look these days.
Known for having an extremely massive physique, Roelly Winklaar has never been a small man. That said Winklaar is looking much different than he has in the last decade.
Recently Roelly Winklaar has resurfaced, but he doesn’t look anything like we’re used to seeing him. The veteran bodybuilder looks considerably downsized. Winklaar has gone from looking like this…
To most recently looking like this…
While it’s certain that Roelly Winklaar has lost a ton of mass, the reason why isn’t yet known. But what is certain is that this is a Winklaar we’ve never seen before. Hopefully it’s not because of a health risk of some kind. If it’s because he’s looking to retire it would also be pretty shocking. We’ll see how this story continues to develop.For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
News and Editorial Writer at Generation Iron, Jonathan Salmon is a writer, martial arts instructor, and geek culture enthusiast. Check out his YouTube, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and Sound Cloud for in-depth MMA analysis.
Jim Stoppani: Protein Sources & Intermittent Fasting, Explained
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Jim Stoppani breaks down the pros and cons of different protein sources and evaluates intermittent fasting.
Not all protein is created equal. If you are a bodybuilder or athlete, you are most likely aware of the different protein supplement formulas that exist on the market. The key three being whey protein, casein protein, and beef protein. We turned to Jim Stoppani, an exercise physiologist to break down just when is the right time use each kind of protein. He also discusses how intermittent fasting works – and when it should be used. In our latest GI Exclusive, Jim Stoppani explains the pros and cons of each protein source and if the growing fad of intermittent fasting is legit.
In 2022, there are more supplement companies than ever before. What was once a niche market has exploded alongside the health boom. There are now thousands upon thousands of brands, product types, and formulas. How does someone know what to choose? This week, as we speak with Jim Stoppani, we focus primarily on protein powder. What is the right protein powder to take when looking to build muscle?
Whey Protein Powder vs Casein Protein Powder
Whey protein powder is surely the most popular protein supplement on the market today. But that doesn’t mean it should be your single choice of protein supplement. Jim Stoppani breaks down the difference between whey and casein protein – and how both can benefit you.
As Jim Stoppani explains it, casein protein powder use to get a bad wrap. This was because it breaks down in your body slower. Due to this, many would turn to whey protein powder instead. It gets into your blood faster – thus helps you build muscle faster for your workouts.
But as time and studies have grown – it has become clear that casein protein has its benefits for those looking to build muscle. Nothing has changed about the two protein sources per se. Instead, we have a better understanding of the human body and how it uses protein.
Jim Stoppani explains that the fast acting whey protein is both a blessing and a curse. It is generally accepted that whey protein leaves your blood stream within two hours. This is good in the short term. But modern science has also recommended that casein protein is a great addition to your supplementation as well.
Jim Stoppani breaks down how casein protein is like an onion. It has layers that take longer to break down into your body. This is good in the long term as your body recovers to build back muscle. This is why it’s best to have either a protein powder blend formula or to take your own combination of both whey and casein protein powder. In tandem, you get the best of both worlds for optimal results.
What about beef protein supplements?
Jim Stoppani also takes a look at beef protein powders. The first fact he wants to make clear – beef protein powder is not ground up meat. In fact, it’s collagen – beef cartilage. Why does this matter? Unlike whey or casein protein – beef protein does not provide an anabolic benefit for the body.
Does this mean you shouldn’t take beef protein? It’s certainly less in vogue than it once was. But of course, all protein sources still provide the core element of protein your body needs. Particularly when you are resting and sleeping for recovery. That being said, those who are looking to make real muscular gains on the level of a bodybuilder should likely turn towards the other options.
Intermittent fasting and bodybuilding
Jim Stoppani also touches upon intermittent fasting. This diet trend, which is defined by having short term periods of fasting, has become extremely popular over the past decade. But is it simply a long term fad? Or does it have real benefits for both health and weight loss?
Stoppani explains that intermittent fasting is essentially something we do naturally every day. When we sleep, we forego eating for at least six to eight hours. That’s fasting. But there are some great health benefits to be had if we extend that time period a bit longer.
Jim Stoppani details how we can simply add 2 hours to the front and back of our sleep schedule to ensure somewhere between 10 and 12 hours of not eating. This is a great tool for weight loss. However, Stoppani would not recommend such a diet to an active bodybuilder. This kind of fasting goes directly against the goal of building muscle. It puts you in such a deficit that muscle loss is inevitable. Essentially, you would be actively pulling back and forth and slowing down your muscle building goals unecessarily.
That doesn’t mean Jim Stoppani is against intermittent fasting completely. He understands why it’s such a popular weight loss diet. It’s effective and it’s user friendly. Other diets demand you “do the math” by counting calories or other nutrient values. It puts people in the position to constantly stress themselves out. “If I eat this cookie now, maybe I can skip dinner and then later have a light salad.” It’s these kinds of thoughts that make dieting hard.
Intermittent fasting makes things easy. Everything is a yes or no question. Are you currently fasting? Then don’t eat. Are you in your “open” period for eating? Then go ahead and have that cookie. Intermittent fasting allows for more leniency on what kinds of food you eat. Of course, Jim Stoppani further explains that doesn’t mean you can eat burgers and chocolate all day. But it’s certainly less strict than other diet options.
Wrap Up
Jim Stoppani has the knowledge and research to back up the reason behind why things work and others don’t. That’s why his explainers on both protein sources and intermittent fasting are so valuable. Understanding the why behind the how can help encourage motivation behind these tactics. Make sure to check out Stoppani’s full explainer in our latest GI Exclusive segment above.
Chris Bumstead Details 5,000-Calorie Bulking Diet
Classic Physique Olympia champ Chris Bumstead has entered the bulking phase of his preparation.
Chris Bumstead is officially in the bulking stage of his Olympia preparation. The event is scheduled to take place from Dec. 16-18 and will return to Las Vegas. The Classic Physique champion recently shared his bulking diet that totals around 5,000 calories per day.
Bumstead took to his YouTube page to share the video. He has won the previous three Classic Physique Olympia titles and is the competitor to beat in this division. After a battle with COVID-19 in December, Bumstead is back to gaining size and strength day in and day out.
Chris Bumstead was forced to take time off from the gym. This is when he lost around 28 pounds before returning to the gym. After a few weeks, Bumstead began training again and has put the size back on. He is currently 255 pounds and will continue to bulk as the year goes on.
Bumstead detailed his entire diet for fans to check out. The breakdown of his meals can be seen below.
Chris Bumstead Bulking Diet
Meal 1 – 1,344 Calories
Chris Bumstead mixes up his breakfast but in this particular video, he shared a recipe for a protein shake that he likes to consume in the morning twice a week.
70 grams oats
2 scoops Whey protein isolate
1 scoop fiber
19 grams almond butter
1.5 bagel
ghee butter
Meal 2 – 980 Calories
The second meal of the day is from a meal prep service called Mega Fit. Bumstead admits that he is not usually a fan of these services but it allowed him to prepare many meals at a time.
7 ounces steak
2 cups white rice
Meal 3 – 760 Calories
This is the pre-workout meal for Bumstead. It is similar to the second meal but substitutes chicken for steak. He explains that he feels chicken is easier to digest than steak so this is why he saves this one for before workouts.
6 ounces chicken breast
2 cups white rice
Meal 4 – 779 Calories
The sweet potatoes in this meal are consumed raw so they do not shrink while coking.
500 grams raw weight sweet potato
165 grams ground turkey
1 banana
Meal 5
Chris Bumstead downsizes the portions a bit in this meal but the make up is the same as meal four. This is a meal to balance out proteins and healthy fats. Bumstead explains that he likes to have carbs after workouts and he consumes fats towards the end of the day.
170 grams ground beef
300 grams sweet potato
half avocado
Meal 6
Bumstead ends his day with another shake. This one includes almond butter and Glutamine, which will improve digestion.
80 grams oats
32 grams almond butter
1 scoop Whey protein isolate
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Frightening Video Shows Woman Crushed To Death By 397-Pound Barbell In Mexico City Gym
A woman was attempting a huge lift at a Gym Fitness Sport centre in Mexico City.
A woman was killed after attempting a 397-pound lift at Gym Fitness Sport centre in Mexico City last week. The barbell appeared to be too heavy and ended up falling onto her neck, crushing it between the bar and bench.
There was footage of the incident that happened at the gym in Peralvillo, Cuauhtemoc in Mexico City. The horrifying accident happened in front of the woman’s daughter and other gym goers. Many rushed to her aid after the near 400-pound weight fell on her neck, according to The Mirror.
The woman’s daughter and another man who was present during the lift attempt tried to free her by lifting the barbell. This is when two other gym goers attempted to get the weight off. This did not help in time as the woman died on the spot.
The woman has yet to be named. Her daughter received psychological support after witnessing the incident. Also, an investigation has been launched by the state’s prosector’s office. The owner of the gym, who also remains nameless, was arrested for a brief amount of time so the woman’s identity could be confirmed.
The investigation remains ongoing and more details will be released moving forward.
There are many incidents in the gym where injuries occur due to weight on a barbell. In one recent instance, an injury was avoided when Larry Wheels spotted Mike Edwards when his hand slipped during a bench press. The weight slammed on the chest of Edwards but Wheels quickly helped lift to avoid further injury.
This is an unfortunate event and more details will be released as the investigation proceeds. Generation Iron sends condolences to family and friends of the woman, especially her daughter who was present during the accident.
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
2022 Britain’s Strongest Man Results
Tom Stoltman wins the 2022 Britain’s Strongest Man taking four out of the five events.
The 2022 Britain’s Strongest Man was held this weekend on February 26th at the Utilita Arena in Sheffield, England. The event was the first of the year to bring together the most elite Strongman athletes from across Britain to battle across five events. Ultimately, Tom Stoltman won first palce at the 2022 Britain’s Strongest Man.
Tom Stoltman swept the competition and won four out of the five events. This is a repeat victory for Stoltman, who also won the 2021 Britain’s Strongest Man. This marks him as the first Scottish athlete to win two consecutive BSM titles in this century. Stoltman was followed by Pa O’Dwyer in second and Adam Bishop in third.
Derek Dufour has been managing all digital operations on the Generation Iron Network for over six years. He currently manages a team of editors, writers, and designers to provide up-to-date content across the GI Network.