Archives for October 2010

Hardbody Style’n with The Sports Stylist® – Rotate Those Sneaks


I know I’m guilty of not following this bit advice. I’m guessing most of you have more than one pair of sneakers… Great tip from Cindy aka The Sports Stylist®.

Sneakers
You should never wear the same pair day to day to workout in. Have at least 2 pairs that you rotate so they can air out and breathe. If you find that they are less than “fresh” at times, stick a dryer sheet inside them to help take the odor out. Works great to keep your gym bag smelling fresh too!

Check out more tips and style’n info on Cindy’s blog.



Mindi Smith Gets Busted


Check out this video at the 1:10 mark. Last year’s NPC Nationals overall figure winner, Mindi Smith gets busted!

Mindi appeared on SPIKE TV’s MANswers where they discussed the different ways people try to smuggle cocaine into the country. Mindi’s role was that of a woman caught trying to smuggle cocaine into the country via her bra, known as the Plunder Bra.

This is the second time Mindi has appeared on SPIKE TV’s MANswers. You can stay updated with Ms. Smith on her Facebook page.



Hardbody Guide to NPC Nationals in Atlanta


This weekend over 500 men and women will compete for IFBB Pro League Status. Two years ago Erin Stern was crowned the Figure National Champ and now she’s the current Olympia Figure queen. Last year Mindi Smith was awarded the top spot and she went on to win her pro debut at the Phoenix Pro. The NPC Nationals brings out some of the best physiques in all disciplines. This year is sure to be no different and we’ll be there covering all the action beginning with tomorrow’s check-in.

2010 Overall Champs – photo by Isaac Hinds

Here’s some helpful regarding this weekend’s event.

OFFICIAL STAGE PHOTOS ORDER FORMDownload the PDF. Bring this with you to check-in. The photo CD is cheaper if ordered the day of the show.

HOST HOTEL:
Hyatt Regency Atlanta
265 PeachTree Street NE
Atlanta, GA 30303
Ph: 404-577-1234

The event will be held in the Hyatt Regency Atlanta. The show is flat seating and the event itself will be in the Centennial Ballroom.

TRAVEL:
To hotel/venue from Atlanta airport.
There are a few ways to get to the airport. I’ve taken a shared cab to this event before and it can be quick or painfully slow, depending on what time you arrive and the traffic. I also rode the M.A.R.T.A and if you’re on a budget this is the mode for you. I wouldn’t suggest it if you have 2-3 bags but if you’re traveling with one and a cooler you should be ok. Competitors might get a few strange looks for being orange but heck I got strange looks just for looking like regular schmuck. The terminal is next to the hotel so you won’t be lugging things for blocks.

The good thing is you have a variety of options depending on your budget and time.

Transportation from Hartsfield International airport:
Go to the transportation booth at the airport and ask for a shuttle to the Hyatt Regency Atlanta downtown. The hotel recommends the Atlanta Airport Shuttle Connection (ASSC). 404.762.3007. No reservations are necessary. It runs 6 a.m. to midnight from the airport and it leaves the hotel every 10 and 40 minutes after the hour. $16.50 one way/$29 round trip per person.

Limousine Service: This is for those of you who are big bawlers and travel with an entourage.
The Concierge can arrange a limousine service to pick guests up at the gate for $70.00 for a town car, $85.00 for a SUV or $125.00 for a stretch limousine.

Taxi Service:
To/From airport fee: $30.00 plus $2.00 per each additional person.
Downtown Zone includes: North Avenue/Ashby to North Avenue/Boulevard to Boulevard/Atlanta to Atlanta Avenue/I75-I85 to I75-I85/Georgia Avenue to Georgia Avenue/Glenn Street to Gleen Street/Ralph David Abernathy to Boulevard back to Ashby Street/North Ave.

Taxi Metered Rates:
$2.50 = First 1/7 mile
$2.00 = Each additional 1 mile
$21.00/hr = Waiting time

Taxi service within downtown Atlanta has an $8.00 minimum.

Greyhound/Trailways:
Taxi approx $7.00 plus tax

M.A.R.T.A.
(Metro Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority) $1.75 per ride. Rail system runs approx every 10 minutes. Hyatt Regency Atlanta is connected to Peachtree Center Train Station via Peachtree Center Mall. 20 minutes from Airport. (Airport pickup at baggage claim, TH Terminal. To get to Hyatt, take M.A.R.T.A. to the Peachtree Center Station and exit Northeast towards Peachtree Center Mall.

GYMS
The hotel has a gym but it’s usually packed. That’s to be expected at a competition. It’s open 24 hours a day and is FREE. There is a Gold’s Gym about a 8-10 minute walk from the host hotel. They have a very friendly staff and easy to work with. They have a Guest Pass available for $15/day or $25/week. The gym is open until 9pm on weekdays and 5:30pm on the weekends. Those of you looking to get an early work out in on Sunday will have to wait as they don’t open until 1pm on Sunday.

Gold’s GYM
215 Peachtree St
Atlanta, GA 30303

FOOD – The hotel has food and the breakfast buffet is decent but it’s what you’d expect from a hotel. There’s a Food Court in the Mall at Peachtree Center but it’s mostly fast food. If you want to venture out there are a number of places walking distance from the hotel.

• Hard Rock Cafe – close but usually slow service.
• Ray’s in the City – Variety of fish but not going to be your cheapest option.
• Willy’s Mexican Grill – Kind of like a Chipotle
• Hooters – what you’d expect from any Hooters
• Durango Steak House – Steak, fish and a variety of other American Menu items
• Morton’s Steak House

There are many more just ask the concierge for whatever you might be craving.

Grocery Store
The nearest grocery store is a ten minute drive from the hotel. If you have a car or don’t mind shelling out some cash for a taxi there is a Publix.

Sheets – Linens
This should be an obvious one for all competitors but bring your own sheets so you don’t ruin the hotel’s sheets. You will be charged for it and you don’t want to end up with THAT bill when you check out. Plus it causes problems for the promoter for future events.

Schedule of Events at HYATT REGENCY ATLANTA

Thursday, October 14
• 7:30 – 9pm Early Weigh-in Men
• 9-10pm -Early Weigh-in Women Bodybuilding
Early Check-in/Heigh Check Figure/Bikini

Friday, October 15
• 9-10:30am – Final Weigh-In/Check – All Athletes
• 3pm – Men’s Mandatory Meeting
• 4:30pm Men’s Prejudging
• 5pm – Women’s Bikini Mandatory Meeting
• Following the Men’s Prejudging – Bikini Prejudging

Saturday, October 16
• 7am – Women’s Bodybuilding Mandatory Meeting
• 8am – Women’s Bodybuilding Prejudging
• Women’s Figure Meeting & Prejudging following the Bodybuilding Prejudging
• 5pm – Top 15 Class Competitors Mandatory Meeting
• 6:30pm – FINALS – All Divisions

Show Hours/Ticket Prices

Friday, October 15th, 4:30 p.m.
Men’s Bodybuilding and Women’s Bikini Preliminaries
(Tickets $50 – General Admission)

Saturday, October 16th, 8:00 a.m.
Women’s Bodybuilding and Women’s Figure Preliminaries
(Tickets $35 – General Admission)

Saturday, October 16th, 6:30 p.m.
Finals for all Bodybuilding, Figure and Bikini
(Tickets $125 & $75 – All Seats Reserved)

Tickets are available at www.nationalbodybuilding.com or at the door.

CONTACT INFO:

Betz/Larsen Event Management Inc.
104 Eleventh Avenue
Windermere, FL 34786
phone 407-876-4467 fax 407-876-5843
cell 407-342-4052 · email: Pambetz@aol.com



Mum mum mum mah Lady Gaga Tour Rider Includes Protein Bars & Muscle Milk


It seems Lady Gaga and her crew have a healthy side to them or at least it appears that way according to some of the items listed on her tour rider. ABCnew.com has a story about the demands and requests artist make while on tour.

Some of the items listed on Lady Gaga’s Tour Rider:
• Organic ginger and lemongrass tea
• Two bottles of white wine, ideally Kendall-Jackson or Robert Mondavi
• A small plate of non-sweaty and non-smelly cheese
• Organic peanut butter
• Organic salsa
• Organic tortilla chips
• Splenda (not sugar)
• Vegetarian hot dogs
• Non-fat Greek yogurt
• Protein bars
• Muscle Milk
• Two cases of water (not Dasani — no explanation why)

abcnews.com

What do you think… will we soon be seeing Gaga’s fans (known as her little monsters) drinking Monster Milk?


Images: connect.in.com & Musclemilk.com



IFBB Figure Pro Courtney West Newest Muscle & Fitness HERs Cover Girl


Overall NPC USA Figure Champion, Courtney West is the newest Muscle & Fitness HERs cover girl. A few subscribers have started seeing the November/Decemeber 2010 issue arrive in their mailboxes. The issue doesn’t officially hit news stands until the end of the month.

The new issue is loaded with workout tips, recipes, contest coverage and more. As always, check out the Hardbody.com “TWIST & TURNS” section for industry insight and news from yours truly.

Cover Girl, Courtney will be making her IFBB Pro debut next weekend at the Houston Pro Figure. Congratulations Courtney! Check out some of the interviews Courtney did with us at the NPC JR. USAs.


An added bonus in this issue is the first HARDBODY.com full page ad. We’ll be holding a contest for those of you who spot the ad and take your picture with it. Stay tuned for more details.



2010 IFBB Border States Pro Figure


The 2010 IFBB Border States Pro Figure is an opportunity to qualify early for the 2011 Olympia. This pro figure event is held in conjunction with the NPC Border States and promoted by Jon Lindsay. If you’re an IFBB Figure Pro and haven’t sent in your contract to compete in this event, what are you waiting for?

Ron Avidan will be covering this event for Bodybuilding.com and Hardbody.com. There are few places more beautiful than San Diego. Check it out and tell Jon HARDBODY sent ya, it might get you a Diet Coke but I can’t promise anything.

COMPETITOR LIST:
Teresa Anthony
Julia Aragon
Raechelle Chase
Crystal Chiles
Krissy Chin
Carin Hawkins
Amy Lee Martin
Kristin Nunn
Mindi O’Brien
Felicia Romero
Shala Singer
Masae Tagami
Deena Walsh
Natalie Waples
Courtney West
Stay Wig

Event Location:
Scottish Rite Event Center
1895 Camino Del Rio S.
San Diego, California 92108

Event Hotel:
Sheraton Mission Valley
1433 Camino Del Rio S.
San Diego, CA 92108
Reservations: Online reservations or call 800-325-3535

Event Day/Time:
Saturday, Oct 30th at 11:00am Prejudging
Saturday, Oct 30th at 6:30pm Finals

Discounted Ticket Prices:
Discounted ticket prices for Children, Seniors and ACTIVE Military. (Must show military ID at box office.)
Children that will NOT occupy a seat are free.
Available for purchase at box office only.

Schedule of Events:
Saturday, Oct 30th 11:00 am – Athlete brief followed by check-ins. Scottish Rite Center
Saturday, Oct 30th 11:00am – Prejudging Scottish Rite Center
Saturday, Oct 30th 6:30pm – Finals for all classes Scottish Rite Center



Jen Hendershott NPC All Women’s Weekend


IFBB Fitness Pro Jen Hendershott has put on her promoter’s hat for the second time. The 2nd Annual Jen Hendershott All Woman’s Weekend and The Big Shott Classic Men’s & Women’s Bodybuilding Championship will be held on October 23 in Charleston, South Carolina. This national qualifier will feature fitness, figure bikini and women’s bodybuilding.

DATE: October 23, 2010

LOCATION: Charleston, South Carolina

VENUE: The Sottile Theatre
44 GEORGE ST.
CHARLESTON, SC 29401

THE ALL WOMEN’S WEEKEND will include the following contests:
FITNESS: 1 CLASS

FIGURE: 3 CLASSES
CLASS A/SHORT: UP TO AND INCLUDING 5’4″
CLASS B/MEDIUM: 5’4″ UP TO AND INCLUDING 5’6″
CLASS C/TALL: OVER 5’6″

MASTERS FIGURE: 1 CLASS (OVER 35 YRS OF AGE, ID’S REQUIRED)

BIKINI: 2 CLASSES
CLASS A/SHORT: UP TO AND INCLUDING 5’4″
CLASS B/MEDIUM: OVER 5’4″

Visit getphatpromotions.com for more information on this event.



2010 NPC Texas State & IFBB Houston Pro


Next week I’ll be heading to the NPC Texas State Bodybuilding, Figure, Fitness and Bikini Championships in Houston, Texas. The event will also play host to the 2010 Houston Pro Figure & Bikini Championships.

When:
October 23, 2010

Pre-judging: 9am
Finals: 6:30pm

Where:
Stafford Centre
10505 Cash Road
Stafford, Texas 77477

Special Guests:
IFBB Pros Victor Martinez & Stacey Thompson

For more information visit: thompsonmusclecontest.com

DOWNLOAD THE PHOTO ORDER FORM (PDF). Bring this with you to the show.

As of October 13th this was the list for the IFBB Pro competitions. Ladies, SEND IN YOUR CONTRACTS! This is a chance to qualify for the 2011 Olympia and a great venue to do it at.

HOUSTON PRO FIGURE:
Teresa Anthony
Raechelle Chase
Krissy Chin
Katina Maistrellis
Courtney West

HOUSTON PRO BIKINI:

Michelle Lamb
Beth White



Supermodel Marisa Miller Named NFL Spokesperson


Supermodel Marisa Miller was recently named the new spokesperson for the National Football League (NFL). Marisa is one of the leading models in the world today having appeared in the coveted Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue and is a former Victoria Secret model.

Marisa posted on her blog, “I’m really excited to announce my partnership with the NFL! This is an incredible honor for me and I’m really looking forward to my trip to London at the end of the month. The 49ers and Broncos are playing a game at Wembley stadium and it counts as a season game.”

Ads featuring Marisa Miller the SuperModel Fan.

mm_nfl_finals-1191 mm_nfl_finals-52 mm_nfl

{democracy:170}

Ads via: marissamiller.com



G’s Tip of the Week: Time to Shine!


IFBB Figure Pro Gina Aliotti shares a great reminder for those of you competing not only this weekend but also in future shows.

Time to shine! The NPC Nationals are here again! Leads me towards a more competitive tip of the week. Remember, the stage is the icing on the cake and it was the journey to the stage that makes you a winner! Do not compare yourself to anyone else! We all have our own journeys, accomplishments and personal goals. Remember that this is a competition against nobody but yourself! If you know you did everything in your power to bring the best package you possibly could, that is what matters! Be in the moment, have fun and just do your thing!!

Best of luck to all the NPC Nationals’ competitors! I wish you all the best!!!

xoxo
Gina Aliotti



Planet Fitness TV Commercial Features IFBB Pro Bodybuilder


I tweeted about this spot a few weeks ago but in case you’re not one of the HardbodyNews followers here it is again. This commercial is for Planet Fitness Gym and features IFBB Pro Bodybuilder, Jerome Ferguson. It’s a pretty amusing spot and one that didn’t require a lot of acting on Jerome’s part. Anyone who knows Jerome knows he’s a colorful character and a bit over-the-top.

Planet Fitness made headlines a few years ago over their “No Grunting” policy.



What’s in Chicken? Check out Dr. Oz’s Chicken Decoder


Many of you are chicken eaters but do you know what’s in your chicken? When you go to the grocery store are you confused with what the labels say? I know I’ve been confused with some of the label verbiage. On a recent flight, I caught the Dr. Oz show and on it he discussed chickens and what the labels mean. I found this pretty helpful and insightful.

Dr. Oz decodes 4 popular, sometimes misleading, labels being applied to America’s chicken. Get the facts. Determine what’s necessary from what’s nonsense with Dr. Oz’s label decoder.

Organic – Considered the gold standard of labels, chickens marked organic are grown without antibiotics and while being raised, they must have access to the outdoors. It means they can’t be genetically modified, irradiated or cloned.

Raised Without Antibiotics – Although the USDA has banned the term “antibiotic-free,” the claim that an animal has been “raised without antibiotics” implies that it has not received any antibiotics during the course of its lifetime. Buyers beware: The USDA does not verify these claims. The labels are applied at the discretion of the manufacturer.

Free-Range – While this label conjures pastoral images of chickens happily pecking in green pastures, it only means that the animal has had access to an open area. The USDA allows this label to be placed on any poultry product that has had open-air access for a minimum of 5 minutes per day.

Hormone-Free – The USDA prohibits the use of hormones in raising chickens. This is an established regulation. This isn’t a selling point for a particular brand – it’s a reiteration that the USDA prohibits the use of all hormones in raising poultry.

– doctoroz.com

I found the “Free-Range” definition to be the most alarming. Organic chicken appears to be the healthiest choice and it will likely be the most expensive chicken as well.

Check out the videos and more information on doctoroz.com.



I’m not completely insane. I’m maybe just a little bit crazy.


I’m a huge fan of music and song lyrics can help describe situations or feelings in a poetic way. Alana Davis’ “Crazy” does that for me lately. It’s from her 1997 Album “Blame it on Me” and it’s a good one.

“I’m not completely insane. I’m maybe just a little bit crazy.”

That pretty much sums up the madness of traveling from show to show every weekend but being a little crazy is good. Another line I like from her song is “You conform to what society says. And I conform to me.” I’m digging that.

LYRICS
You’ve got your home of the brave
And I’ve got my land of the free.
You conform to what society says
And I conform to me.
Looking for light in the corners,
Getting caught in the spider web.
You look at me as though I’m giving a performance
When I’m just feeding my head.
And you know that I’m doing alright
And I won’t explain myself to you just to avoid a fight
How I’m living ain’t correct,
But for me, its just right

Chorus:
I’m not completely insane.
I’m maybe just a little bit crazy.
There’s no one to blame,
Got no shame ’bout my game,
Don’t want nobody to save me.
I’ve got a pair of ruby slippers that
I don’t wear much anymore
And if I had the nerve,
I’d click my heels and return
To the wonderland I knew before.
I’m waiting on a slow boat to China,
Gonna sail away to the sun.
I’ve been searching for myself,
And I know I’m gonna find her
If I break away from everyone.
So, the way that I act may not fit in.
Just because I have a mind of my own,
Doesn’t mean its a sin.
I don’t ask you to give up;
Don’t expect me to give in.

Chorus:
Some like to live for the moment,
Taking life into their hands every day.
And if they don’t get killed,
They get so high off the thrill,
They could float to heaven anyway.
And others want to save for tomorrow,
Thinking money is security.
Well, I understand the need,
But I don’t get the greed.
Y’know, they all seem pretty crazy to me.
You can tell by the expression I wear.
Though I seem a little strange to you
I don’t really care. I’ve got the freedom to be;
There are others like me everywhere…

Chorus



NPC National Bodybuilding, Figure & Bikini Championships Competitor Breakdown


This weekend in Atlanta, Georgia 358 women will take the stage for the NPC National Bodybuilding, Figure & Bikini Championships. Here’s how the divisions breakdown BEFORE the official check-in. This is subject to change.

NPC National Bodybuilding, Figure & Bikini Championships Competitor Breakdown:

Women’s Bodybuilding:
Lightweight -9
Middleweight – 7
Light-heavyweight – 18
Heavyweight – 7
Total: 41

Bikini:
Class A – 17
Class B – 17
Class C – 29
Class D – 16
Class E – 24
Class F – 24
Total: 127

Figure:
Class A – 26
Class B – 26
Class C – 49
Class D – 30
Class E – 28
Class F – 31
Total: 190

Thanks to J.M. Manion via Around the NPC Facebook page for the assist.



Notice to All 2010 NPC National Competitors


Those of you competing in this weekend’s NPC National Championships, take note of the news below.

NOTICE TO ALL 2010 NPC NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS COMPETITORS

The following athletes are required to participate in The NPC NEWS Photo Shoot With J.M. Manion On Sunday, October 17th At The Hyatt Regency Atlanta Hotel from 9 a.m. To 12 Noon:

• MEN’S OVERALL WINNER
• WOMEN’S OVERALL WINNER
• THE 6 FIGURE HEIGHT CLASS WINNERS
• THE 6 BIKINI HEIGHT CLASS WINNERS

Only the 4 Overall Winners are to bring their Overall Trophies.

The Men’s & Women’s Overall Winners should bring their posing suits and posing oil.

The 6 Bikini & 6 Figure Height Class winners need to bring their 2-piece competition suits along with any other 2-piece bikinis.

All Competitors Please Plan Accordingly With Your Travel Plans.

We’ll see you there.



Ft. Lauderdale Photo Shoot Out November 18-19th


Ladies this is your chance to build your portfolio and gain exposure in the fitness industry. Three photographers will be shooting in three different locations on November 18-19, 2010 in beautiful Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.

Each photographer brings their own unique style and those who sign up will experience it in a variety of settings. All women who attend the shoot out will receive a profile here on hardbody.com, images submitted to top fitness magazines and bodybuilding.com “wallpaper of the week” consideration. One lucky lady will also be selected for a 4-page pictorial in American Body Plus Magazine.

The photographers:
• J.M. Manion
• Isaac Hinds
• Rob Rosetti

Model reservations will be limited to 10 women. For more information and to reserve your spot contact Rob Rosetti at editorabplus@yahoo.com.



Nicole Blanco Wins Big at The NPC Utah


Promoter Steve Schmall did a tremendous job with the 2010 NPC Utah Nutrimart Classic & the 2010 NPC Utah Natural. The shows were held over the weekend in Salt Lake City, Utah. A huge crowd saw some great competition and guest posers Ronnie Coleman and Marcus Haley perform. Marcus Haley did a great job of entertaining the crowd, while Ronnie’s showing was a bit lackluster. The 8x Mr. Olympia was in great shape but fans only more fist pumps than actual bodybuilding poses.

The women’s portion of the show had some tough competition. The bikini and the figure divisions had women who could hold their own on a National stage. I was impressed by the large turn out in the crowd and the quality of competitors on stage. Nicole Blanco took home top honors in both figure shows and has a great look.

2010 NPC UTAH Nutrimart Classic
Women’s Open Overall Champion – Rein Neibur
Figure Overall – Nicole Blanco
Bikini Overall – Karlee Hoskins

2010 NPC Utah Natural
Womens Overall – Jill Nix
Figure Overall – Nicole Blanco
Bikini Overall – Karlee Hoskins



Countdown to the 2011 Bikini International


The 2011 Arnold Sports Festival will be here before we know it (143 days and counting). This jam-packed event will take place on March 3-6, 20111 in Columbus, Ohio. One major addition to the sports festival is the IFBB Bikini International. The bikini pros will share the stage with the Arnold Classic competitors for the first time. The IFBB bikini prejudging will take place on Saturday with the men’s pro bodybuilders at Veteran’s Memorial Auditorium. The bikini finals will be held on Saturday night along with the men’s bodybuilding and Strongman finals.

Only about a dozen women will be chosen to compete in this invite only event, so you know the competition will be fierce. Last year’s overall Arnold amateur winner automatically received an invite to the event, however since Chady Dunmore chose to compete in another organization & forgo her IFBB Pro status, her invite was extended to the short class winner, Noemi Olah. Noemi proved she is worthy of an invite by winning her pro debut at the Detroit Pro and competing in the inaugural Bikini Olympia. That leaves leaves about 11 invites on the table for the bikini pros. Applications are typically due in November and the fortunate few will be notified around Christmas time. I’m told those chosen to compete in the Bikini International will have their hotel and travel covered by promoter Jim Lormier.

More info on how to apply for the Bikini International will be posted soon. Who would YOU like to see invited to the first Bikini International? Post your favs in the comments below.

Check out some of the highlights from last year’s Arnold Sports Festival.



Spice it Up & Lose Weight


We’re all looking for a way to keep the pounds off, especially during the holidays. Yahoo.com has a good article on five spices that can help you control your weight. The five spices are…

1. Cinnamon
2. Cayenne
3. Black Pepper
4. Mustard Seed
5. Ginger

Check out the article to find out the benefits.

Thanks to ProBodybuildingWeekly.com for the link.



Erin Stern Gets Some Ocala Love


IFBB Figure Pro Erin Stern was recently interviewed by the Star-Banner on her Figure Olympia win. It’s a good example of how to get exposure on a local level.

Photo by: Doug Engle/Star-Banner

“I think we all have hopes and dreams of being No. 1 and I really wanted it badly,” she said. “I would wake up in the morning and visualize winning and I would go to sleep and visualize winning. It was something I kind of had on my mind a lot. It just so happened that the way I visualized it came to be.”

Though Stern has reached the pinnacle of her sport, she isn’t satisfied with stopping there. The avid competitor hopes to win bodybuilding’s second biggest event — the Arnold Classic, in March — before heading back to Vegas next year to defend her crown.

Read the Full Article on ocala.com.



IFBB Bikini Pro Jessica Jessie on Comcast SportsNet


IFBB Bikini Pro Jessica Jessie was recently interviews on Washington’s Comcast SportsNet and she shows the interviewer a few Bikini workout moves. Jessica takes the interviewer through a workout complete with frog jumps, sumo stomps and more.

I think he was slightly distracted, what do you think?

Props: csnwashington.com.



Hardbody Fitness Models Appear in Street Fighter Anthem Music Video


Jace Hall of “The Jace Hall Show” has a new music video out and it’s currently featured on the homepage of hulu.com. Two fitness models make an appearance in the video can you spot who they are?



2011 BodySpace Spokesmodel Search


Iron Man Magazine presents the 2011 “Bodybuilding.com BodySpace Spokesmodel Search,” an online contest open to men and women who think they have what it takes to be selected to represent BodySpace and appear on a future cover of Iron Man Magazine. Winners will represent Bodybuilding.com and the BodySpace community by working the Bodybuilding.com booth at the 2011 Arnold and the 2011 Olympia as spokesmodels.

Visitors to the Bodybuilding.com website will vote for their favorite male and female entrants during the voting month with the top twenty (20) males and top twenty (20) females being chosen by majority vote. The final round of the Competition will feature the top five (5) males and the top five (5) females, chosen by Bodybuilding.com and Ironman Magazine and will be held on January 29, 2011, at the Los Angeles Fitness Expo in Los Angeles, California, USA.

Visit Bodybuilding.com for more information on how to enter this contest. Last year, Figure Olympia Erin Stern was the runner-up in this event. Who will rise to the top this year?



Kaitlyn Keeps Kick’n Ass on WWE NXT


The fitness industry has known her for a few years but now the world is seeing what “Kaitlyn” is all about. I’m not a big wrassle’n fan but I find myself following along and getting into the WWE NXT season. Admittedly it’s because the Figure International champ Zivile Raudoniene (Oksana) and NPC competitor Celeste Bonin (Kaitlyn) are on it.


Last night one buff rookie diva was voted off the show but fortunately it wasn’t Oksana or Kaitlyn. I’m digg’n how the show is playing up Kaitlyn’s role and it’s pretty entertaining to watch her kick ass. The coolest part about it all is that she’s not really playing a fake role. She’s a goofball in real life and her ass kicking ability goes well beyond the pretty face and buff bod.

Props to WWE NXT for providing some entertainment that includes hardbody women.



Recognize National Breast Cancer Awareness Month


October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month (NBCAM). The National Breast Cancer Awareness Month program is dedicated to increasing public knowledge about the importance of early detection of breast cancer. Fifteen national public service organizations, professional associations, and government agencies comprise the Board of Sponsors, who work together to ensure that the NBCAM message is heard by thousands of women and their families.

Breast cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissues of the breast. It is considered a heterogeneous disease—differing by individual, age group, and even the kinds of cells within the tumors themselves. Obviously no woman wants to receive this diagnosis, but hearing the words “breast cancer” doesn’t always mean an end. It can be the beginning of learning how to fight, getting the facts, and finding hope.

Women in the United States get breast cancer more than any other type of cancer except for skin cancer. It is second only to lung cancer as a cause of cancer death in women.

Each year it is estimated that nearly 200,000 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer and more than 40,000 will die. Approximately 1,700 men will also be diagnosed with breast cancer and 450 will die each year. The evaluation of men with breast masses is similar to that in women, including mammography.
– http://www.nationalbreastcancer.org

Visit http://www.nationalbreastcancer.org for more information and if you haven’t had an exam please do.



Erin Stern’s Two Year Transformation


Two years ago Erin Stern entered the NPC National Figure Championships a relative unknown. When she took to the stage it was apparent she had the physique of a champion. She left the Atlanta the overall figure champion and was definitely one to watch. There was no question Erin had a physique of an athlete and the potential to make an immediate impact in the pro ranks.

You’ll often hear that the best way to track your progress is with photos. The photo comparison below is one of the best examples I’ve seen to help illustrate the point. On the left is a photo of Erin at the 2008 NPC Nationals where she won the overall title. On the right, is a photo of Erin at the 2010 Figure Olympia where she took home top honors. Notice how Erin’s overall shape has improved, her legs are more streamlined and her waist looks incredibly smaller. Note, when on stage its’ all about creating an illusion whether your waist is small or not you need to make it appear as though it is. Erin’s physique transformed but so did her presentation and stage confidence. The suit cut, posing and her presentation plays into the transformation as well. This is a perfect example of how all the details matter in transforming yourself from a good competitor to a great one.

Pretty impressive changes in two years from top to bottom.



NPC Nationals Heats Up Atlanta


The 2010 NPC Nationals are right around the corner and Hardbody will be there covering all the action. Two years ago, Erin Stern took home top honors in the Figure Division and now she’s the Figure Olympia Champ. Who will we see take home the Figure crown this time?

ATLANTA – The bodies are fierce, and so is the competition as the fall kicks off blazing hot with the NPC National Bodybuilding, Figure & Bikini Championships with top athletes poised to battle it out in the “HOTLANTA POSEDOWN.”

Over 500 of the country’s leading ultimate bodybuilding athletes will set their sights on Atlanta as they prepare to show off their tanned and toned bodies in a series of competitions, which will crown the best of the best in their respective categories for bodybuilding, figure, bikini and the coveted overall men’s and women’s championships.

The event, which will be held on October 15th & 16th at the Hyatt Regency Atlanta’s Centennial Ballroom (265 Peachtree Street NW), is officially sanctioned by the National Physique Committee of the USA (NPC), which makes this event a qualifying round for the pinnacle Olympia Competition! The NPC is the NCAA of competitive amateur bodybuilding and sanctions more than 1,000 events around the country, which lead up to this – the “crown jewel” and premier championship event.

Show hours are:

Friday, October 15th, 4:30 p.m.
Men’s Bodybuilding and Women’s Bikini Preliminaries
(Tickets $50 – General Admission)

Saturday, October 16th, 8:00 a.m.
Women’s Bodybuilding and Women’s Figure Preliminaries
(Tickets $35 – General Admission)

Saturday, October 16th, 6:30 p.m.
Finals for all Bodybuilding, Figure and Bikini
(Tickets $125 & $75 – All Seats Reserved)

Tickets are available at www.nationalbodybuilding.com or at the door.

HOTLANTA POSEDOWN EXPO – Serving as the platform for the world’s top fitness products and services, the Expo will feature exhibits from more than 60 of the country’s most popular sports related companies. Industry leaders like GNC, MuscleTech and Met-Rx will showcase their newest innovations in the Centennial Ballroom.

Many of the current IFBB pro bodybuilders, fitness and figure athletes, along with other sports celebrities will be in attendance. In years past, the event attracted a wide range of noteworthy athletes from NFL and NBA players to WWE pro wrestlers and UFC fighters.

Contact:
HOTLANTA POSEDOWN
Pam Betz, Event Manager
407-876-4467
pambetz@aol.com
www.nationalbodybuilding.com

You can follow the show on twitter @2010Hotlanta. When tweeting the action use the hashtag #NPCnationals. Are you competing in the show or know someone who is? Post in the comments below and let us know who to watch for. See ya in Atlanta!



Demo Rep Needed in Utah


One of the top supplement companies is looking for a well-spoken, fit male or female currently living in Utah for demo work.

The part-time position pays $20-$25 per hour. You MUST live in Utah and should reside in/around the Salt Lake City area.

If you or someone you know is interested email me and I’ll provide more details.



Meet Olympians Erin Stern & Ronnie Coleman


Fans of Bodybuilding and Figure will have a chance to meet two Olympians in Salt Lake City, Utah this weekend. The newly crowned Figure Olympia champ, Erin Stern will join 8x Mr. Olympia Ronnie Coleman on Saturday, October 9th for a special guest appearance.

NPC promoter Steve Schmall puts on a great event and this one should be no different. I’ll be there photographing the event and providing coverage here on Hardbody.com through out the weekend. If you’re in Salt Lake City this weekend be sure to stop by and check out this event. Ronnie Coleman is in tremendous shape and will undoubtedly pack the house. Erin Stern will be on hand to chat with fans throughout the day on Saturday. IFBB Pro Bodybuilder Marcus Haley will also be making a special appearance.

OCTOBER 9, 2010
Cottonwood High School
5700 South 1300 East
Salt Lake City, Utah

Prejudging: 9:30am
Finals: 6:00pm

Visit: NPCUTAH.com for more information



Bodybuilding.com Announces Official 2010 Supplement Awards Winners


Congratulations to the 2010 Bodybuilding.com Supplement Award winners. The nominations and awards are based on customer votes. Check out which brands took home top honors this year.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Bodybuilding.com Announces Official 2010 Supplement Awards Winners

Boise, ID – Bodybuilding.com, the Internet’s most-visited bodybuilding and fitness site and largest online retailer of nutritional supplements, announced the 6th Annual 2010 Bodybuilding.com Supplement Awards winners live at Joe Weider’s Olympia in Las Vegas, Nevada September 24, 2010. The Bodybuilding.com Supplement Awards are the industry standard for recognition of the best products and brands in the fitness and supplement industry.

“This was one of my favorite years for the Bodybuilding.com Supplement Awards,” said Bodybuilding.com CEO Ryan DeLuca. “It was fun to see how many new products and companies ended up winning an award. There were so many close calls; we didn’t know who would take home the prize until the very end!”

All nominations were based on sales, and since customers’ opinions are what truly count, Bodybuilding.com lets the general public provide 100% of the final vote. With over 315,000 votes pouring in, the results are finally here!

The 2010 Bodybuilding.com Supplement Awards winners are:
Brand of the Year – Optimum
Supplement of the Year – Optimum 100% Whey Protein (6th year in a row!)
Breakout Brand (most improved) of the Year – USPLabs
New Supplement of the Year – Optimum Platinum Hydrowhey
New Brand of the Year – Cellucor
Muscle Builder of the Year – Gaspari Nutrition SuperPump250
Pre-Workout Supplement of the Year – USPlabs Jack3d
Intra-Workout Supplement of the Year – Gaspari Nutrition SizeOn Maximum Performance
Recovery Supplement of the Year – Scivation Xtend (2nd year in a row!)
Protein Powder of the Year – Optimum 100% Whey Protein (6th year in a row!)
Protein Bar of the Year – Supreme Carb Conscious Bar (2nd year in a row!)
Energy Supplement of the Year – USPlabs Jack3d
Energy Drink of the Year – VPX RedLine RTD (2nd year in a row!)
Fat Loss Supplement of the Year – USPlabs OxyELITE Pro
Weight Gainer of the Year – BSN True Mass (4th year in a row!)
Nitric Oxide Supplement of the Year – BSN NO-Xplode (6th year in a row!)
Creatine Supplement of the Year – Gaspari Nutrition SizeOn Maximum Performance
Glutamine Supplement of the Year – Optimum Glutamine 1000 Caps
Multivitamin of the Year – Universal Nutrition Animal Pak (6th year in a row!)
Joint Health Supplement of the Year – Universal Nutrition Animal Flex (5th year in a row!)
RTD of the Year – BSN Syntha-6 RTD
Tanning Product of the Year – Dream Tan’s Dream Tan (2nd year in a row!)
Packaging of the Year – BSN (2nd year in a row!)
Ad Campaign of the Year – Animal via Universal Nutrition

The Bodybuilding.com Supplement Awards provide an innovative way to help customers find truly exceptional products and brands, while helping to recognize the efforts of the many great companies that make up the industry.

For more information visit: http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/2010-supplement-award-winners.htm

Bodybuilding.com offers more than 12,000 health and fitness supplements & accessories to help people achieve their health, fitness and appearance goals, as well as over 25,000 pages of FREE bodybuilding & fitness information, including more than 12,000 articles (written by 525+ writers), video & audio segments, and new content added daily.



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