Archives for December 2008

Lean Times Lead to Lean Bodies?


We’ve all heard about the economic crunch. We’ve all felt it in some fashion this year. Earlier in the year it was gas prices, now there are a number of things from budget cuts to unemployment. Do these tough times mean people will scale back how much they eat? Doubtful. Most will turn to comfort foods and usually in excess.

Only have a few bucks? Many people think they’ll get more bang for their buck hitting the nearest all-you-can-eat buffet than visit the local health food store. Sure this may not apply to many of you reading this as you are health conscious, however you most likely have friends, family, co-workers or clients who fall into this trap. Encourage them to be smarter in 2009 about their health and fitness.

Many of us make some type of resolution to get back in shape, get into better shape or eat healthier. If you’re one of the resolutioners or know someone who is check out the New Year’s Guide by Bodybuilding.com. It has a great list of helpful tips.

Don’t use the tough economy as excuse to cancel your gym membership or resort to cheap comfort food. Take the time to invest in yourself and you could find a leaner body in these lean economic times.



HardBody Photo of the Day: So Long 2008


New IFBB Fitness Pro Nita Marquez waves goodbye to 2008. Or is it waving hello to 2009? Either way you want to look at it, it’s been a helluva year with lots of ups and downs.

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Backstage with fitness competitor Nita Marquez.


Hardbody Song of The Day: Keith Urban – Stupid Boy


I spoke with one of the top pros yesterday who asked me to listen to Keith Urban’s “Stupid Boy”. The lyrics that hit way too close to home for her and wanted me to share it here. The last line in the song says, “It took a while for her to figure out she could run but when she did she was long gone, long gone.” That’s exactly what she is did and encourages anyone woman who feels like a man is trying to steal your dreams or prevent you from being you, to get out.

It’s a heavy topic to end the year on but one that is worth contemplating as we move into the new year.

Well she was precious like a flower
She grew wild, wild but innocent
A perfect prayer in a desperate hour
She was everything beautiful and different
Stupid boy…you can’t fence that in
Stupid boy…it’s like holdin’ back the wind

She laid her heart and soul right in your hands
And you stole her every dream and you crushed her plans
She never even knew she had a choice
And that’s what happens when the only voice she hears is telling her she can’t
Stupid boy
Stupid boy

So what made you think you could take a life
And just push it, push it around
I guess to build yourself up so high
You had to take her and break her down
Oh…

She laid her heart and soul right in your hands
And you stole her every dream and crushed her plans
She never even knew she had a choice
And that’s what happens when the only voice she hears is telling her she can’t
You stupid boy

Oh you always had to be right
And now you’ve lost the only thing that ever made you feel alive

She laid her heart and soul right in your hands
And you stole her every dream and crushed her plans
She never even knew she had a choice
And that’s what happens when the only voice She Hears is telling her she can’t
You stupid boy
Oh, I’m the same old, same old stupid boy

It took a while for her to figure out she could run but when she did she was long gone, long gone



Online Radio Shows / Podcasts… Do you listen?


There are a few online radio shows / podcasts in the fitness industry. Do you listen to these shows? If you do feel free to comment which ones you enjoy and why.

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Be A Sponge and Stand Out


There’s a good interview on USA TODAY that talks about standing out. One question/answer stood out to me…

Q: When people first begin their careers, their parents tell them hard work is the secret to success. Is that enough to advance the average person beyond the cubicle?
A: You have to know your audience, whether you’re an accounting temp or lighting up a TV screen. Know how to fit in and connect with the people around you. Be a sponge. Try to know as much as you can. What makes the office or the company run successfully? I notice people who add something to the mix. Personality stands out. You never know when an opportunity will come your way. You can’t sit with your head down in a cubicle and expect to grow. You need to do the job well and also learn to create the opportunities for success.

This is a great thought-provoking answer. Think about it. Are you standing out in whatever it is you seek to achieve?



Hardbody Marketing: Uniquely Oakley


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Uniquely Oakley Women.

I ran across a female dedicated site for Oakley sunglasses. The well designed site showcases a few female athletes where each one tells their story. It’s an impressive list of female athletes and a different approach to marketing a product, in this case sunglasses. This is the type of thing I’d like see more female competitors pursue. Think beyond supplement companies for endorsements and sponsorships. I’m guessing many of you wear sunglasses, why not approach one of these companies with your story and seek sponsorship? There are many opportunities out there and I’d encourage any woman looking for an endorsement to get creative in 2009.

A collection of extraordinary women, living by their own rules. Each has a story to tell — through words, images and even more, through their actions. Uniquely Oakley reveals the individual spirit behind each one and what it is that powers her soul.

Check out the Oakley Web site.



Georgia NPC Champ Mary Toole Offers Free Camp for Overweight Kids


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Mary Toole giving back. Photo by ww.macon.com.

A story from Macon.com tells of a Mary Toole, NPC bodybuilder, giving back to her community.

These days, it’s a challenge for many children to stay trim and sustain healthy lifestyles. Many schools are cutting back on recess and physical education classes, and time and cost constraints can make it difficult for families to eat healthy foods at home.

“I think kids that are obese are because of inactivity,” Toole said. “A lot of kids now have high blood pressure and high blood-sugar levels, and I want to decrease that.

“I want to see how many kids stay active and maintain healthy eating” after the fitness camp, she said.

As part of her dissertation to earn a doctorate in public health education, Toole will offer a free 10-week fitness camp starting in May for 40 children who are overweight and ages 8 to 12.

Read the Full story here.



HardBody Photo of the Day: John Balik – Fit Expo


This shot is a couple years old but one of my favs of IRONMAN magazine’s John Balik. The IRONMAN pro will be here before we know it and it marks the beginning of the competitive season. The FIT EXPO has become one of the best events to attend all year. This year IRONMAN and Bodybuilding.com have teamed up to offer a spokesmodel search. There are still a few days left to cast your vote. Check out the contestants here.

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John Balik looks to another Fit Expo in 2009.


Hardbody Song of The Day: Linkin Park – My December


Linkin Park can crank out the jams but “My December” is one of their more mellow tunes. They have a pretty cool set of live songs on itunes – LIVE FROM SOHO that is worth checking out.

December is almost over. Make the most of today, you never know what’s in store for tomorrow.



Pauline Nordin Opens Up Shop


Fans of Pauline Nordin just got a bit happier today… Pauline has opened up her online shop today. Check out the well designed site at fighterdiet.com. You can purchase photos, online training, ebooks and more. You can also keep up with Pauline (or try to this woman is busier than the Energizer Bunny) on her blog.

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Pauline’s new online store.


HardBody Photo of the Day: Silly Stephanie


One of our friends to the North, Stephanie Worsfold is always a pleasure to be around. She’s upbeat and chipper no matter what is happening in her life. Here she is goofing around at the 2008 Arnold Expo. Check out some of her competition photos on bodybuilding.com.

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Those silly Canadians. 🙂


Harley’s V-Rod Muscle


Harley Davidson has a new motorcycle out called the V-Rod Muscle. It’d be cool to see a woman with some muscle in their promotions. It’s a well done campaign and worth checking out on what good marketing looks like.

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Harley’s new V-Rod Muscle.


Hardbody Song of The Day: Alicia Keys – Sure Looks Good To Me


Alicia Keys shares in the opening of this version that we should, “Never Be Afraid to Fall”. I hadn’t heard this song before until new IFBB Figure Pro Amy O’Neil shared it was one of her favorites. Listen to “Sure Looks Good To Me“, it is worth a listen. Alicia Keys has an amazing voice.

Have a song you’re listening to? Drop me a line and share with the hardbody readers.



IRONMAN’s Ruth Silverman & Lonnie Teper’s Thoughtful Words on Kenny Kassel


Lonnie Teper shares more details around the passing as well as his remembrance of Kenny Kassel on his blog. Ruth Silverman also shares some heartfelt words on her section of the web site. Lonnie and Ruth have both been around the NPC/IFBB scene for some time. Their words regarding Kenny are worth a read.



Kenny Kassel Cause of Death


I received this from Nancy DiNino, a friend of Kenny Kassel and his family:

I just finished speaking with Kenny’s mother today who informed me that the autopsy was performed today and the cause of death was determined to be Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) that could have been caused from some health issues that perhaps were not previously addressed.

Please pass along, and Kenny’s mother Mimi would like to extend her thanks to everyone in the industry who expressed their thoughts and prayers.

Rest In Peace Kenny.



Australia’s Arina Manta New DVD


A preview of IFBB Figure Pro Arina Manta’s new DVD….

ARINA MANTA – FIGURE & FITNESS CHAMPION: “They call me Fit Doll”
(Dual Price US$39.95 or A$59.95)
NTSC DVD – Open Region

ARINA MANTA is an IFBB Pro Figure and Fitness Champion. Born in Romania and now living in Australia she has gone from being a professional diving champion to a star on the bodybuilding stage.

This DVD follows Arina over several days day from arriving in Los Angeles to visit with Bill Dobbins, to participating in a glamorous photo shoot, working out at Gold’s Gym in Venice, California, posing on a Harley, learning to ride a horse, posing on Venice Beach as well as in the hills above Malibu. Plus much more!

In this DVD Arina explains use of makeup, selecting of costumes, training and diet for the women who are interested in looking great as well as those who are training for competitions. Plus lots of wonderful, sexy posing!

Contents of the DVD seen in this order:
Opening – Bill Dobbins comments as a voice-over during Arina’s outdoor posing
Introducing Arina Manta
Posing in the garden part 1
Arina discusses competition tips and strategy
Photo shoot at the Dobbins studio
Workout at Gold’s
Posing in the garden part 2
Posing at Venice Beach
Learning to ride a horse
Posing at Vasquez rocks
Posing on a Harley motorcycle
Final studio pumping and posing

“With her lithe, sexy, muscular body, symmetrical shape and wonderful condition, ARINA MANTA is a SUPERSTAR of FIGURE. She proves that the sleek, defined figure is the new definition of SEXY FIGURE BODYBUILDING.

Includes Extra Scenes and a Photo Gallery Slide Show
98 mins PLUS 15 mins Extra Scenes:
TRT: 113mins.



Advisory Notice to all IFBB Pros


If you’re an IFBB pro and haven’t renewed your IFBB Pro card yet, you’ll want to do so BEFORE January 15, 2009. An Advisory Notice was issued by the IFBB Pro League this week as a reminder…

ADVISORY NOTICE TO ALL IFBB PROFESSIONAL LEAGUE MEMBERS
Please be advised that, pursuant to a decision taken by the IFBB Professional League at its annual general meeting held on September 27, 2008 in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA, all membership applications renewed after January 15, 2009 will, without exception, be subject to a USD $400.00 membership fee.



HardBody Photo of the Day: Muscle Milk Does a Body Good


Today’s photo of the day was taken at the 2008 Arnold Classic. This THEE place to be if you’re looking for some of the latest greatest samples from the supplement industry. One of my favorite supplement companies is Cytosport, the makers of Muscle Milk. They always have a popular booth at the Arnold. Last year NPC competitors Ana Tigre and Erin Heath lent a helping hand at the booth.

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Ana and Erin at the 2008 Arnold Classic.


Hardbody Song of The Day: Women’s Power Week… Aretha Franklin – Think


Today’s song comes from the Aretha Franklin with “Think“. Big Sexy encourages us all to think in this live performance on Vh1.

People walking around everyday, playing games that they can score
And I ain’t gonna be the loser my way, ah, be careful you don’t lose yours

You better think (think) think about what you’re trying to do to me
Yeah, think (think, think), let your mind go, let yourself be free



Behind The Scenes Photoshoot


Check out the Behind The Scenes video with Pavell and Pauline. A closer look at a couple of Pauline’s photos are on her blog. As she asked, can you believe it is the same woman in the FLEX magazine Black and Whites? Pretty cool that she can have a hardcore ripped look as well as a softer side. Look for Pauline in the newest Muscle & Fitness magazine, on shelves now.



Hardbody Song of The Day: Women’s Power Week… LeAnn Rimes – Holiday In Your Heart


LeAnn Rimes has shown amazing strength in her voice since a young age. This version of “Holiday in your Heart” is a little over ten years old but still a nice little holiday tune.



HardBody Photo of the Day: Monique Minton by way of Bodysport.com


Monique “MoMo” Minton burst onto the competitive figure scene this year and made her presence known. While she’s done well on the national NPC scence, look for her to do even better off stage. She has the potential to be one of the top fitness models in the biz. If you’re looking for someone who (in my opinion) will be the look of a “Bikini Pro”… Monique is it.

One of the top fitness photographers in the biz, Terry Goodlad posted a gallery of Monique on his site Bodysport.com. Check it out here.

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Monique Minton definitely has THE look.
Photo by Terry Goodlad.


Sad News: Longtime Friend of Fitness – Kenny Kassel Passed Away


I don’t have many details yet but I received sad news from multiple sources today… Long time contributor to the fitness industry, Kenny Kassel passed away. As soon as I find out more information I will post the news here.

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Kenny with the 2007 USA winners.

Rest in peace Kenny. The fitness industry lost another great individual.

** Update from long-time friend of Kenny’s, Bob Bonham:

Funeral Details:
Sunday – 10 am
Temple Beth El
221 Schraalenburgh Road
Closter, New Jersey 07624
201-768-5115

Click here for directions.

http://www.tbenv.org/absolutenm/anmviewer.asp?a=13&z=5 for directions



HardBody Photo of the Day: Pavel Peace


Today’s photo of the day comes compliments of photographer, Pavel Ythjall. It’s a reminder for all of us to have a little peace in our lives and with others this holiday season.

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Peace to all this holiday season.


Muscle & Fitness Hers – Kim Lyons’ Fit Tips For The Holidays


Muscle & Fitness Hers teamed up with NBC’s Biggest Loser Trainer and IFBB Pro, Kim Lyons for a few tips to remember this holiday season.

It’s the end of the month but some of the greatest gorging may lie ahead. Use these 10 tips from celebrity fitness trainer Kim Lyons to minimize the damage

Right now, you are navigating what is, without question, the toughest time of the year to keep fit. Many places around the country, the weather is keeping you indoors – upsetting your routine and sapping you of motivation. But everyone has to contend with odd hours, lots of travel and lots – and lots – of bad food. Here are 10 bare-bones tips that you can use to get through the holiday craze without suffering a complete backslide in your routine.

Check out the tips here.



Hardbody Song of The Day: Women’s Power Week… Christina Aguilera – Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas


Christina Aguilera is another woman who has an amazing voice. Her vocal strength is shown in the song “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” in a duet with Brian McKnight.

This version is actually a little better but they wouldn’t allow embedding.



HARDBODY Exclusive: Interview with Fitness Icon Monica Brant


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Monica Brant heading back to the Figure International.

I caught up with Monica Brant moments after she received the news of her Arnold Invite. Monica will take the stage for the first time since the 2007 Olympia at the 2009 Figure International. Hardbody.com fans voted “YES” in a big way when asked if you’d like to see Mo return to the Arnold stage. Check out what Mo had to say about retiring, her fans and more…

How did you find out you made the invite list?
ISAAC HINDS! He is sooo fast!

Does this change your meal plans for Christmas?
Well, I’ll just have to make sure I get in my cardio and workouts… Since I am sitting around 133lbs right now it shouldn’t be too much to bring it on down for stage by end of FEB!

Not that it matters but what are you usually on stage?

Well… Since there isn’t ever a scale backstage to step on prior to stage. It is really hard for me to know EXACTLY! I typically leave the house before water depletion around 127/8.

Ah piece of cake then. 🙂

What made you decide to come back to the competition stage?
Just for the record… I have never told anyone that I retired. All statements made are rumors and speculations! Seriously, it has never come out of my mouth that I was retired. I realize I mentioned that IF I was to place lower than 3rd at the 07 Olympia we would consider me retiring… But after that placing of 7th – I still never told anyone that I retired!

I was invited to the AC in 08 — but was unable to perform do to some issues with my endorsement at the time. Then I wasn’t qualified for the Olympia based on my ’07 placings.

Otherwise, being on stage is also a great platform for my business stuff! I will be having some exciting news next year to share with fans. If you want to be one of the first to know my business, fans can sign up to receive my monthly newsletters via my home page of www.monicabrant.com (which is going to have a face lift beginning of the year!) Also, if anyone is interested, I have all new 2009 F.E.M. Camps listed on www.femcamp.net!!

What do you say to those who say you’re time has passed and should stop competing?
Whatever! Ha! Ha! I don’t buy it…And everyone has an opinion! I am sure the people that are saying that aren’t competitors. Keep in mind I am using the stage as a platform, I really haven’t ever expected to win! I figured it out back in 2003… I do it for the gazillion fans that are asking me, on a continual basis, to get back on stage!

What can fans expect to see from Mo in Columbus?
Just my best… As always!

Thanks Mo!
Thanks I



Hardbody Photo of the Day: Merry Monica


Monica Brant gets into the holiday spirit with today’s photo of the day. Fans can sign up for her newsletter at monicabrant.com.

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Photo by Lisa Brewer & courtesy of Monica Brant.


Say It Ain’t So Joe… American Gladiators Canceled?


Hollywood reporter James Hibberd reports:

NBC’s “American Gladiators.” Gladiators ready? No, gladiators are not ready. This competition-series revival enjoyed terrific ratings for its initial run during the WGA strike early this year. A second season launched in May and saw a sharp drop in viewers, with ratings fading throughout its summer run. Most consider reality shows cheap to produce, but this stunt-heavy arena competition is not. NBC has not mentioned “Gladiators” on the record, but it’s considered canceled.

Does this mean we may see Valerie Waugaman coming out of retirement and back to competing in the IFBB? We know for certain, Tanji Johnson aka “Stealth” will be competing at the Fitness International in March.



Fitness Model Trish Stratus Returns to WWE


For you wrasslin fans out there this is probably old news but fitness model Trish Stratus made an unexpected return to the ring last night. The Canadian star retired from the ring in 2006 but showed no signs of sitting on her arse since retiring.

After beginning her career as a fitness model, Stratus began working for the World Wrestling Federation (WWF), which was later renamed World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), in March 2000. As her wrestling skills and popularity strengthened, she became a one-time WWE Hardcore Champion, three-time “WWE Babe of the Year” and was proclaimed “Diva of the Decade.” On September 17, 2006, she retired after nearly seven years in the wrestling business, following her seventh victory in the WWE Women’s Championship, the most in WWE history.

BuddyTV.



Disclaimer: Reader discretion advised, please consult your physician before beginning any exercise or diet program.