Archives for April 2011

2011 IFBB Europa Show of Champions – Pro Figure Results


Cheryl Brown edged out Candice Keen by one point en route to her first win of the year. Cheryl was near her all-time best and despite having a case of the shakes she came out victorious. Candice Keene looked her best and no one would have argued with her winning the show. If she looks like this every time she competes, she’ll be a threat for a top spot every time. Genn Strobo took home the third and final qualifying spot for the 2011 Olympia with her third place finish.

2011 IFBB Europa Show of Champions – Pro Figure Results:
1. Cheryl Brown**
2. Candice Keene**
3. Gennifer Strobo**
4. Kristen Nagrani
5. Candice John
6. Petra Mertl
7. Ann Titone
8. Amy Vetter
9. Holly Beck
10. Alana Hernandez
11. Kat Ramirez
12. Kaylen McKenzie
13. Lauren DeNapoli
14. CeaAnna Kerr
15. Melissa Fredrick
16. Elivimar Sanchez
17. Stephanie Bambrough
17. Nicole Carter
17. Viviana Cassarubia
17. Ginette Delhaes
17. Sandi Stuart

** Qualify for 2011 Figure Olympia



IFBB Europa Orlando – Full Bikini Results


Nathalia Melo successfully defended her Bikini crown Saturday afternoon in Orlando. Melo made her pro debut last year at this show and has skyrocketed to the top of the bikini division over the last year.

She’s had a couple bumps in the road and it looked like she may have hit one here but her stage presence and sexy appeal prevailed once again. Nathalia edged out Jaime Baird by three points en route to her second Europa Show of Champions title. Baird was at her all-time best and had she got the win I don’t think many would have disagreed. Vanessa Campbell edged out a much improved Dayna Maletone for the the third and final qualifying Olympia spot. If Maletone had a little better stage presence during prejudging she would have gotten the nod. Look for her to be in the Olympia before the year is out.

IFBB PRO BIKINI – EUROPA SHOW OF CHAMPIONS ORLANDO
1. Nathalia Melo**
2. Jaime Baird**
3. Vanessa Campbell**
4. Dayna Maleton
5. Kristy Robbins
6. Kira Rivera
7. Khanh Nguyen
8. Samantha Morris
9. Trina Goosby

** Qualify for the 2011 Bikini Olympia



LIVE IFBB Europa Show of Champions Coverage


The IFBB Europa Show of Champions kicks off today and we’re there covering all the action. The expo opens at 2pm EST and the pros will take the stage at 3pm EST. Follow along on twitter @BBcomContests and @Hardbodynews for callouts, photos and more. Photographic coverage will be on FLEXonline.com and Bodybuilding.com throughout the weekend. If you don’t have a twitter account follow long on this page and watch the tweetage live.

Photos from the IFBB Pro check-in available here.





Hardbody Interview with IFBB Figure Pro Gen Strobo


Gen Strobo is hitting the IFBB Figure stage for the first time this weekend at the Europa Show of Champions in Orlando. I caught up with the Florida Figure momma on the heels of the show. Check out what she’s been up to and what’s behind the Monkey Butt.

 

 

Currently live in: Pensacola, FL

Born in: Ft. Myers, FL

Nickname: HMmm… My family calls me Genni; Team Bombshell, Gen; A few names I wont mention call me: Hoo-dee-lee-hoo and Monkey Butt.

Haha well THAT certainly sounds interesting. I’m sure there’s some entertaining story behind those.

Your first time back on stage this year. How do you feel compared to previous shows? I feel much more prepared for this show than I did for Kentucky and Ft. Lauderdale.  For those shows I’d just come off of the Olympia and hadn’t really had enough time in between them.

When was your last show? Last show was Kentucky Muscle in November, 2010

You’re one of the taller competitors and had the challenge of adding muscle/size. How have you been able to do that? That challenge is with me on an everyday basis.  We have spent the past couple of years trying to figure out what will work best for my body type such as making tons of changes to my diet and definitely the way I train.

What type of foods do you eat to help you put on some muscle? I have spent a lot of time over the past year eating lots of red meat, salmon and white potatoes. Keeping my diet higher in fats and in carbs seems to be helping me out.

Did you have change your training up since turning pro? Over the past year we have changed my training to where I train much differently than I’ve ever done.  Most weeks I stay in the low 8-10 rep range and try to challenge myself on the weight.  I don’t do much supersetting anymore.

You have how many children? 2 daughters soon to be 13 and 16.

How do you balance mommy duties and competing? It is definitely a challenge to be a mom in the first place, but then finding time in between Cross country meets, after school programs and the tons of homework they have to train is even harder. Time management and late nights are all part of balancing my life. I try to dedicate a day to them no matter what I have going on and they pick what we do. They are both some of my biggest fans, and I can tell you they look forward to my cheat meal. They love to watch mom pig out!

What advice do you have for other mommas out there who are thinking about competing but not sure? I can tell you that it won’t be easy. However, nothing worth doing right is. But by doing for yourself and taking care of you first, it allows you to better take care of your family. Plus, it does give the children of today a better awareness to being active and maintaining a healthy eating lifestyle.

You have an interesting business. Tell peeps about that and how you go into that. I own G-Force Fitness and Nutrition.  We specialize in pre-packaged healthy meals and meal plans and also some great tasting Meal Replacement Bars!!!!

Where can people get these healthy meals you speak of? Well it’s only local. GForcenutrition2Go.com.

Who came up with the food on your menu? I came up with all the recipes. Nutrition is my passion and I have my nutrition specialist certification.  Currently I am the owner and chef and I love it. Lots of work but I enjoy every minute of it.

So will you be bringing the press pit samples to try out in Orlando? Ha no samples there.. I wish, maybe in a few months we’ll start to ship the bars and meals.

I guess we’ll be stuck starving. Thanks. Just kidding.

How important is it to have supportive people around you when competing and in life in general? If you surround yourself with positive people you become a more positive person all together. In this sport it is a MUST to have people around you that support you 100%.  Push you through those workouts, encourage you to stay on your diet, etc. Knowing you have someone in your corner, makes stepping into the “ring” that much easier.

If someone is struggling with negative people/influences in their life, what advice would you share in making a change? Change is never easy for anyone.  But if there is someone around you that is bringing you down with regards to the sport or hindering your personal growth then you need to step back and rethink their place in your world.  Those who truly want the best for you will support you in all you do.

How has your prep been different for this show or has it been different? Much different.  First, everyone knows I have a metabolism faster than a speeding bullet. I have had to learn even more that I have to listen to my body and feed it when needed.  When I feel hungry even if it’s not time for my next meal, I EAT. I used to think that I wasn’t working as hard as some girls I know because they were being restricted with food and having to do large amounts of cardio.  But we all have our problems and our way of getting ourself to the stage.  Mine just involves me making sure I eat every calorie I need and keeping my cardio to a minimum.  Doing this and lifting like a bodybuilder is helping me get my physique to a much fuller place that I’ve needed to be.

Any supplements that are on your “must have” list? I love the new ON Amino Energy (grape flavor baby).  It gives me that kick I need to get my day going and since I go to the gym immediately after dropping my kids off at school it gives me that kick in the “monkey butt” I need to lift heavy and push myself.

What the key to getting rid of monkey butt? Hmmm… well I’m not sure if there’s a sure fire cure for this awful disease.  But some painful scrubbing and a little baby oil seems to dull the effects. (I’m never gonna live this down am I?)

No. I guess we should mention that “Monkey Butt” arrived at the NPC Jr. USAs and can best be described as what is left behind from bikini bite/suit glue after a show. It’s not one of the more glamorous sides of competing.

What’s a talent people may not know you possess? Well, I think I’ve said before that I was a nationally ranked fencer for many years in my teens.  But, challenge me to a burping contest and I’m sure to beat ya!

WHAT? Fencing. I had no idea, cool! I’ll take your word for it on the belching. ha. Aight, rapid fire – first thing that comes to mind. BOOM. Say it.

Gallon Jug – Don’t leave home without it

Fanny Pack – Sexy, not!

Headbands – Olivia Newton John

Lady Gaga – Meat dress

Smelly dudes – Ewwww

Hairy backs – Get a Man-groomer

Number of gym shoes own – 5

Number of times I visit the gym a day – 1 to workout and then numerous times to all the gyms in town for my business.

Thanks Gen and all the best this weekend! Gennifer Strobo is also a Team Bombshell Instructor and you can find out more at bombshellfitness.com.



MMA with Momo – UFC 129 Predictions from a Hardbody Hottie


IFBB Bikini Pro and top fitness model, Monique Ricardo (formerly Minton) has been away from the competitive stage and with good reason. She’s currently expecting her first child. Momo checks in with her predictions on UFC 129. The fights take place Saturday night in Toronto, Canada and it’s the biggest in UFC history with over 55,000 tickets sold. Check out how she breaks it down. Agree or not so much?

Momo’s UFC 129 Hardbody Breakdown:

Hello everyone! This is Monique Ricardo, I’ve been MIA lately, busy making a baby, lol. I am very excited for the fight this Saturday. This Saturday we are going to see Georges St. Pierre (GSP) vs Jake Shields, two ferocious fighters and a number of others at UFC 129. This is a sold out show and I am very excited to watch these fights because it features many talented mixed martial artists. An estimated 55,000 will be watching live in Toronto. There’s also a UFC Fan Expo being held this weekend which will give fans a chance to meet some of their favorite fighters.

GSP a Canadian hero, beloved by everybody in Toronto, Canada, hometown to MuscleTech®, the best supplements in the world for fighters and bodybuilders (my sponsors). Jake Shields is a young buck , All-American, up-and-coming fighter and has a chance to make it, but there is only one coming out the champion. He is going into foreign territory, like Rocky 4 , against an angry crowd. He will try to dethrown the prince of Canada. Besides that we have Jose Aldo, the killing sensation going against Mark Hominick, the machine… not to much fame, but alota talent. Of course last but not least Captain America , the hall of famer, Randy Couture. Randy the almost 80 yr old man ( just kidding) vs Lyoto Machida, the dragon.

GSP vs Shields – I think Jake Shields is gonna win because I’m tired of seeing gsp, boring ass, taking people down and stalling for the rest of the fight. I wanna see blood and enjoy my protein shake! lol.

Aldo vs Hominick – Aldo is gonna get beat up a lil, but will end up knocking Hominick out because he is much more experienced. There is too much hype with Homninick and Aldo has been fighting people without teeth in Brazil for years. I dont know about you, but I wouldn’t fight anybody without teeth.

Machida vs Couture – The old man Couture is gonna try to hug machida and take him down. But just like the turtle cannot catch up to the rabbit, Machida is going to run around to make the old man tired. He is in good shape and all, now that I think about it… I’d rather him go back to fighting than acting because The Scorpion King was terrible. Apparently Randy states he will be retiring after this fight, who is he kidding? not Dana White or me 🙂 Machida by Randy Couture throwing the white flag…hahahha ok for realz tko

Henderson vs Bocek- Of course Henderson, the guy looks like a bodybuilder, and we bodybuilders (:p) gotta stay together! hahaha


Monique Ricardo

 

The fights will be shown on Facebook and Pay-Per-View. Check out UFC.com for more info.

 



IFBB Europa Show of Champions – Orlando Figure Preview & Poll


Twenty-one women are slated to compete at this weekend’s IFBB Europa Show of Champions. A new champion will be crowned as last year’s champ, Erin Stern will not be competing. She will be in attendance at the event and checking in through out the weekend. Who will wear the crown this year?

 


Hardbody 411:

Stephanie Bambrough – Stephanie typically competes in the fitness division but will try her hand in the figure competition. She’s a cut girl with good personality. Might in a little over her head with this line up to hang in the top five but a top 10 finish would be a victory for her.

Holly Beck – Holly has great shape and lots of potential. She was knocking on the door of the top spots in 2009 but slipped out of the top ten last year. We’ll see if some time off will help her get back into a to spot.

Cheryl Brown – Cheryl has been on a mission since placing 11th at the Olympia. She successfully defended her title at the Kentucky Pro to end the 2010 season. She finished 5th in her Figure International debut last month. She’s one of the favorites heading into this show and has to be considered the one to beat. While she doesn’t have my favorite physique in the division she does continue to improve. The little details might be the determining factor for the win. Things like her stage presence and hair/make up. If she’s got it all together look for her to win, if not the door is open for someone else.

Nicole Carter – Nicole is from Barbados and I’m not very familiar with her history. She’ll have her work cut out for her to crack the top 10 in this line up but it’s great to see competitors from outside the US competing.

Viviana Casarubbia – Viviana calls Argentina home and will return to the states once again. She carries a good deal of muscle and if she brings the same package she did last year, she’ll be on the outside looking in. Based on what she looked like in the past she might be a great candidate for the new women’s physique division. We’ll see what she brings to the stage this weekend.

Ginette Delhaes – Ginette has the looks and the potential to move up into a top spot. She’s been on the outside of the top ten her last couple shows but I look for her to finish in the top ten here. She’ll need to have tighter glutes and hamstrings to do it though.

Lauren DeNapoli – Lauren is another fitness competitor trying her hand at Figure. She turned pro at the 2009 Team Universe and made her pro debut last year at the NY Pro Fitness. She has a nice physique and could be in the mix here.

Melissa Frederick – Melissa made the switch to figure at the St. Louis Pro show and finished in sixth. She made her way to the New York Pro Fitness where she finished at the bottom of the pack. I look for her to be in the top ten here. She just needs to come in full and not too stringy with her physique.

Alana Hernandez – It’s been a couple years since we’ve seen Alana compete. She has a nice physique and isn’t overly muscular. Many times her suit choice and presentation has hurt her. It’s good to see her back on stage and we’ll see if she can crack the top ten here. I’d like to see her bring straight wavy hair versus the tight curls she’s show in the past. I can only assume her hair is naturally curly. Sounds silly but hair choice can make a difference.

Candice John – Candice has a rock’n physique. Her biggest challenge is bringing a tight booty and not being too muscular on stage. Shes’ steadily moved her way up into the top 10 consistently and I wouldn’t be surprised if she make a run for a top five spot here.

Candice Keene – Candice is coming off an 8th place finish at the Figure International. She was a little off but not by much, I would have placed her higher and look for her to be in the mix for the win here. I can’t see her being out of the top five this weekend. If Candice stayed on her game plan after Columbus she’ll be at her best here.

CeaAnna Kerr – CeaAnna is still trying to find her groove in the pro ranks but she is making head way. I see her somewhere in the middle of the pack here. If she cracks the top ten she could consider it a successful showing in this competitive line up.

Kaylen McKenzie – Kaylen went from 14th at the 2010 NPC Jr. Nationals to winning the overall at the 2010 North American Championships. She definitely stepped up her game. If she brings that same look to the stage this weekend she’ll be one of the rookie standouts. This will be her pro debut so let’s see what she brings to the big league.

Petra Mertl – Peta had her best showing last year at the Ft. Lauderdale Cup to end the year out. She’ll look to pick up where she left off and move into the top five. She’s been up and down in her placings over the years but has yet to finish higher than 7th. It won’t be easy to get into the top spots here but we’ll see what she brings.

Kristen Nagrani – Kristen will be making her pro debut this weekend after turning pro last summer. She turned pro at the same time her daughter, Bikini Olympia Champ Nicole. She’s always in shape and is a consistent competitor in every show she enters. I see her in the top 10 and if she’s on the money with her conditioning look for her to be in the top five.

Kat Ramirez – Kat continues to improve from show to show. She was 7th at the Jacksonville Pro last year. At the New York Pro I remember thinking she needed to go eat a pizza and fill out. When she comes in full her physique is great, if she comes in too small and stringy she’ll be on the outside looking in. I look for her to be at her best and be in the top five.

Elvimar Sanchez – I love Elvimar’s look but it isn’t the look that wins shows. She needs to be much tighter in the lower body to be in the mix. She has the looks and stage presence but it will require a much tighter bod.

Gennifer Strobo – Strobo has the curse of a fast metabolism. If she doesn’t eat and eat and eat she comes in small and stringy. She’s added some size since turning pro and if she comes in full she’ll be in the top three here. If she’s small and stringy, she’ll be on the outside of the qualifying Olympia spots.

Sandi Stuart – Sandi is one of the fitness gals making her way to Figure for this show. She shared that her intent was to head to the Fibo Pro but had to switch things up. Since she’s in shape she decided to throw her name in the mix. It’s a tough line up and she’ll have her work cut out for her to get in the mix with this cast of competitors.

Ann Titone – Ann did a ton of shows last year which isn’t always bad but in her case it didn’t help. Sometimes competitors need to give their body a rest and make improvements. We’ll see if the time off since last Fall treated her well. She’ll be gunning for a top five spot, it’ll be her first time doing so if she’s able to get there.

Amy Vetter – Amy was sixth at her pro debut last year at the Houston Pro. I like her look and if she can come in a bit sharper from behind than she was in her debut, she’ll be in the hunt. She looks good from the front but the detail and conditioning will need to be improved to be in a top spot. She has the potential, let’s see if she brings it.

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See photos from last year’s event here. Follow along all weekend long as I report live from the press pit. Photos, along with live callouts and play-by-play will be coming at ya here. Good luck to all the competitors. For more information on this event visit: www.visionstarinc.com.

 

 



Women’s Olympia Prize Money Announced


The 2011 Olympia will take place in Las Vegas, Nevada on September 15-18th. The line-ups in each division are already very competitive and will continue to grow. The breakdown for the Olympia prize money has been released and is show below. We’ll be there covering all the action this Fall and hope you will be there too.

2011 OLMPIA PRIZE MONEY:

Ms. Olympia
1 – $28,000
2 – $14,000
3 – $8,000
4 – $5,000
5 – $3,000
6 – $2,000
TOTAL: $60,000

Fitness Olympia
1 – $28,000
2 – $14,000
3 – $8,000
4 – $5,000
5 – $3,000
6 – $2,000
TOTAL: $60,000

Figure Olympia
1 – $28,000
2 – $14,000
3 – $8,000
4 – $5,000
5 – $3,000
6 – $2,000
TOTAL: $60,000

Bikini Olympia
1- $10,000.00
2- $3,500.00
3- $2,500.00
4 – $1,750
5 – $1,250
6 – $1,000
TOTAL: $20,00

VIP ticket packages are on sale and sell out quick. Visit mrolympia.com for more information on tickets and the event.



Europa Show of Champions Orlando: IFBB Bikini Preview & Poll


The IFBB Pro Bikini women are back on stage in Orlando. Last year, Nathalia Melo made her pro debut and took home top honors. Can she hold onto her crown? Eight other women have their eyes on the prize and will look to snatch it from her this weekend. Ed and Betty Pariso, the promoters of the event, will stage another great show for the fans of Florida. This is a two-day event taking place on April 29-30.

Hardbody 411:

Jaime Baird – Jaime is on a mission to collect her first pro win and she’ll give Nathalia a run for her money here. Jaime has the luxury of not having to travel for the show and those of you who compete know what an advantage this can be. She’s coming of a fifth place showing at the Bikini International and has really come into her own the last two shows. She’s confident, sexy, sassy and has what it takes to do well here.

Vanessa Campbell – This will be the first time we see Vanessa on stage this year. She finished the 2010 season with a 13th place finish at the Olympia. She should be in the mix for the top five at this show if she comes in with the package she presented at Team Universe, where she turned pro. She has the exotic looks that help her stand out from the competition and one of the few women who can rock the short hair and look good.

Trina Goosby – She took the 2010 season off to earn her Masters degree and made her pro debut last month. Trina placed 7th in a competitive line up at the St. Louis Pro. If she comes in a little bit tighter she’ll be in the mix for the top spots. I wasn’t in St. Louis to know how she presented herself but she obviously can hold her own.

Dayna Maleton – The Jersey girl is back and we’ll have to wait and see which Dayna shows up on stage. She has a great physique, there is no question about that. She stays in shape year-round and if anything she’s a bit too lean/muscular looking on stage. She’s one of those women in between divisions, a little too small currently for figure and a little too muscular for bikini. She’s brought a physique that could do well but presented like a deer in the headlights. If she brings a tone physique with confidence and grace to the stage she’ll be in the top callout, if not she’ll be on the outside looking in.

Nathalia Melo – Ah Melooooo. The Brazilian is Back and looking to hold onto her crown. She was at her all-time best at the Bikini International, where she finished third. I wouldn’t have had her lower than second there but hey that’s just me. If she brings the same package and presentation to this stage that she had in Columbus, she’ll keep her crown. If she gets a little nutty and tries to do too much like she did at the Europa Dallas, Jaime Baird or someone else will be the Queen of the night. We’ll have to wait and see which Melo shows up.

Samantha Morris – Samantha had a less than stellar debut at the Ft. Lauderdale Cup in 2010 and will look to redeem herself this weekend. She’s a taller girl and needs to come in tighter in order to hang with the top women. She was a consistent top three contender in the NPC ranks but it’s a new ball game in the pro league. We’ll see if she stepped up her game and is on the money in Orlando.

Khanh Nguyen – Khanh is a character. When she’s offstage and in photo shoots she’s a hoot. If she can channel some of that energy to the stage she’ll move up. Her biggest problem in the past was her boobs were all you saw on stage. She didn’t pose with confidence and it hurt her placings. She found a suit that strapped the girls down and now if she can nail her presentation she’ll move up. She has a great physique and could be top five here.

Kira Rivera – Kira competed in a number of shows last year and was up and down in her placings. She had an impressive debut at this show last year with a fourth place finish. She’s had a few months off from the stage and we’ll see if she can repeat her showing of last year. It will come down to how well she presents herself on stage.

Kristy Robbins – Kristy has been in the game for awhile. The crew she’s competing against may not even be familiar with who she is but she’s ready to make them notice this weekend. Kristy was the 2002 Overall NPC Nationals Figure Champion and placed fifth at the 2003 Figure International. This will be her debut in bikini and her first show since 2004. Welcome back Kristy.

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Follow along all weekend long as I report live from the press pit. Photos will be posted, along with live callouts and play-by-play. Good luck to all the competitors. For more information on this event visit: www.visionstarinc.com.

 

 



The Sports Stylist® Tip: Get a Face Mask


Cindy Whitehead travels all over the globe and works with some of the biggest names in sports. She’s kind enough to take time out of her busy schedule to share a tip. This week’s tip involves not jack’n up your make up when changing clothes for a photo shoot. What’s the solution? A face mask. HUH?

 

Worried about putting on that tight workout wear over a perfect make-up job? Ask the stylist to help by pulling neckline of the top away from your face when putting it on. You can also carry a mesh type “face mask” with you which helps. It goes over your face, zips in the back and looks really pretty (kidding). I carry one in my kit but not everyone does. You can usually find them for under $15 at your local department store lingerie department.

Cindy has some sweet new info on her blog check it out at cindywhitehead.blogspot.com. You can also follow her on various shoot via her  twitter.com (@sportsStylist). The newest issue of Muscle & Fitness HERS has a cool feature on shoes compliments of the The Cinster, check it out too!

 



Amanda Latona Lands Another Cover


IFBB Bikini Pro Amanda Latona continues to heat things up on the newstands. Hitting shelves and mailboxes now is Amanda’s latest cover, her second this month! The May/June 2011 issue of Muscle & Fitness HERS features the stunning bikini pro and inside you’ll find a number of other hardbody women. Amanda is also featured on the current issue of FLEX magazine.


Check out Cindy aka the Sports Stylist’s kick ass shoe review in this issue and don’t forget the HARDBODY “Twist & Turns” in every issue.

 

Join the M&F HERS facebook page to stay updated on all the latest news and info with the magazine.



G’s Tip of the Week: Crazy for Cocoa


Gina has a new tip of the week for all you hardbody peeps. This time she hits on cocoa. I haven’t tried coccoa on my eggwhites before. Has she lost her mind? Guess I’ll have to try it and see. Check it!

 

 

Crazy for Cocoa?
Need a little chocolate fix without a calorie fix? Just a touch of Cocoa powder satisfies that fix and makes anything go down…. With less than 15 calories, 2 grams of fiber, and a strong antioxidant, 1 tbsp of unsweetened cocoa powder is a perfect little treat! Add a tbsp to your bowl of oatmeal, protein shakes, protein pancakes or even in your egg whites for an extra touch of chocolate yumminess! A little bit goes a long way, try it today! It is the small tricks of the trade that keep us on track and moving forward!

Gina Aliotti-Silva
Nutrition, Fitness & Lifestyle Consultant
www.ginaaliotti.com



FIBO Power Pro Photos


Bodybuilding.com enlisted the services of long-time photographer Kevin Horton to cover the 2011 FIBO Power Pro. Check out all the photos from the event on the main FIBO page. It’s one of the few events that has female bodybuilding with it.

Complete Fibo coverage can be found here.



Nicole Wilkins In Pursuit of a A Dream – New DVD


2009 Figure Olympia Champion and two-time Figure International Champ, Nicole Wilkins has a new DVD available for purchase on her site. The DVD takes you through her Olympia prep, workouts, diet and more. I haven’t reviewed the DVD, In Pursuit of a Dream, yet but if any hardbody peeps have, share your thoughts in the comments below.



Via NicoleWilkins.com:

Experience the entire preparation routine that 2009 Figure Olympia champion Nicole Wilkins goes through as she readies to defend the most prestigious title in the world. Follow along as she takes you step-bystep through workouts for every muscle group, two high intensity track workouts and reveals her diet secrets for a lean, strong and sculpted physique. Bonus behind-the-scenes view of the Olympia and posing instruction from one of the sport’s best. This entertaining and informative DVD is a must-have not only for competitors, but also for those looking to get in the best shape of their lives!


View the trailer:

 

 



New Look to Low Supplement Prices


Bodybuilding.com is the leading web site for all your Health & Fitness needs. The site has thousands of pages on a number of topics ranging from how to get ripped to your favorite recipe. The site started by Ryan and Jeremy Deluca has grown leaps and bounds over the years and last night another milestone was reached. The crew in Boise, Idaho launched the new store which makes it much easier to find and order what you need.

 

Thousands of products are now available on the store and you can order with just a quick click. When purchase your supplements with bodybuilding.com, you can count on them being fast and reliable. Check out the newly revamped store and see some a few familiar hardbody women featured through out.

 



Sanitol Hand Sanitizer Creepy Gym Ad


Um, ya. This ad is creepy on so many levels. The print ad for Sanitol Hand Sanitizer was created by McCann Worldwide Group in New Delhi, India. It makes me uncomfortable and feel the need to shower but not so sure on the hand sanitizer.

First, what’s up with the composition of this ad? Hey dude look at me lift this monster 2 pound weight while I touch your hairy arm pit. Second, why is she touching his pit? It looks like she’s petting it like a kitty while she gets her bicep curl on. Strange.


Touch him. And you touch everything he’s touched.

Advertising Agency: McCann Worldgroup, New Delhi, India
Published: December 2010

Props: adsoftheworld.com for the ad.




2011 NPC Orange County Classic Photos & Results


Last weekend, Ron “Yogi” Avidan was capturing the competition at Jon Lindsay’s NPC Orange County Classic. It looks like Yogi was every where at this event,  showing up front stage, back stage, side stage, outside, in the dark and more! Check out all the photos from the event. Congrats to all the winners.

 



2011 NPC Orange County Classic:

Bikini Photos
Figure Photos
Men’s Physique Photos
Misc Photos
Check out the results and full contest coverage on bodybuilding.com.



2011 NPC NY Metropolitan Photos & Results


The 2011 NPC Steve Stone New York Metropolitan brought out a number of hardbody men and women earlier this month. There were a number of competitors who showed potential to succeed on the national level stage. Don’t be surprised if you see a few of these competitors in the running for pro cards this year. Another great job by Steve, Bev and their crew.

 


2011 NPC Steve Stone New York Metropolitan:
Full contest results
– Bikini Photos
– Figure Photos

Check out all the photos and coverage from the weekend on bodybuilding.com.



2011 Emerald Cup Photos & Results


Money Mark Mason was at the 2011 NPC Emerald Cup and captured all the action. Over 300 competitors took the stage and you can see all the competition on Bodybuilding.com. Congratulations to all who competed and achieve their goals. Stay HARDBODY!


2011 Emerald Cup Links:
Full contest results
Men Bodybuilding Photos
Figure Photos
Fitness Photos

Emerald Cup main page with all contest related links on Bodybuilding.com.

 



Diet, Exercise & Dedication – Fitness Moms


Check out this video feature some hardbody women who competed in the 2010 Carla Sanchez Fitness Fiesta. Carla explains the differences in the NPC divisions and the focus of the Sun Sentinel piece is all about the women of Fitness. This is an encouraging piece for women, check it out!

See the video and more on www.sun-sentinel.com.

Props to Nicolas for the link.



Figure Champion Nicole Wilkins Answers Often Asked Questions


IFBB Figure Champion Nicole Wilkins added two more victories to her resume this year. The champ has a number of things she’s busy with but was kind enough to take the time to share another guest blog here. As you can imagine being one of the top figure competitors in the world, Nicole is often asked the same questions over and over. She answers some of them here.

 

Long time no blog! Thank you Isaac for asking me to continue to write for hardbody.com. I hope everyone is enjoying the beginning of spring. I know I am loving the 60 degree weather and sunshine. Spring is the best for outdoor activities and after such a long winter, the sunshine brightens up everyone’s mood around here.

I decided that I am going to use this blog to answer common questions I’m often asked. If you can think of any that I didn’t answer, please send me an email at nicole@nicolewilkins.com or visit my facebook page at www.facebook.com/nicolewilkins01 and post them there. I will do my best to answer as many as I can.

1. Do you ever struggle with your diet while prepping for a contest? If so how do you overcome it?
Of course. There are times where I am very hungry and would love to have a cookie or a jar of peanut butter lol, but then I think of how far I have come, how hard my fellow competitors are training at that moment and how I would feel after if I ate myself into comatose. Then, I stop and have some hot tea 🙂 I think this sport is one of, if not the hardest, because not only do you have to train regularly, but you have to be ON 24/7 with your diet. If it was easy, everyone would be in great shape!

2. What advice would you give for makeup, hair and tanning for stage? How do you get the perfect tan?
Makeup and hair: I recommend getting this done professionally for your competition. You have trained for months gearing up for this show. The last thing you need is your hair or makeup affecting your placement. I do recommend natural looking hair- avoid the prom updo’s and for makeup, don’t forget the fake eyelashes!

For the tan: Be sure to exfoliate all week gearing up to get rid of all dead skin. If you don’t, your tan may get a little muddy looking. Do not use lotion the day or two before you tan and absolutely no deodorant the day of (it will turn lime green!). Once sprayed, wear loose clothes, do not get any water on your skin and do not sweat. Stay in a cool place.

3. I’m thinking about entering a competiton. Where can I find information on contests in my area?
Two of the most important sites to know are:
www.npcnewsonline.com
www.ifbbpro.com

For individual states, I would google the state I am interested in to see what their National Physique Committee (NPC) show schedule for that year is. Here are a few:
In Texas: http://www.thompsonmusclecontest.com
On the East coast: http://www.bevfrancis.com
On the West coast & Mountain regions: http://www.lindsayproductions.com
http://www.jefftaylor.com & www.npcutah.com.
In the midwest: http://www.michiganfitnessshows.com (check out my show July 16th 😉

I know I missed soooo many, so please leave your state and site in the comments below.

4. What is your daily diet when you are not preparing for a competition? Do you indulge in sweets, alcohol, etc and if so how often?
My offseason diet looks pretty much the same as my in-season diet. I like to eat clean and healthy but, yes I do like the occasional glass of red wine and dessert! I don’t drink much at all though, maybe three times a year if that lol. I also don’t go crazy with food either because I can pack on the lbs pretty easy!

5. What are some do’s and don’ts for someone looking to compete?
DO: Hire a trainer- have someone else keep an eye on you so you don’t drive yourself crazy with ‘should I do more of this, less of this, eat more of this, not enough of that….’

DON’T: Worry about what everyone else is doing. Focus on what you need to do to bring in the best YOU.

DO: Ask questions and attend a show before you compete in one.

DON’T: Think you can get a way with ‘a bite or two won’t hurt’.

DO: Listen to only one person’s advice – everyone has their own methods and there is no right or wrong way. Every body is different.

DON’T: Get pissed onstage if you are not in the first callout – take it as a learning experience and do better next time.

DO: Have fun! You are competing because you love to train and live a healthy lifestyle, and competing helps give you a goal to strive for and extra motivation. It is not all about winning and losing. Enjoy the experience and appreciate the journey.

 

I hope this helps you out! Have a question? Post it in the comments below or on my facebook page.



TIME: Female Marines Race To Win Over Afghan Women


TIME has a video featuring female Marines who are doing their part to help Afghan women. One of the women featured in the video is Claire Ballante who will be competing in the NPC Military Nationals in Bikini division.

TIME:
Local culture forbids men to look at or talk to Afghan women, so the Marine Corps deploys Female Engagement Teams to reach out to them and address their needs.

Thanks Team Bombshell for the link.



IFBB FIBO Power Pro Fitness Results: Regiane Reigns


Regiane Da Silva took home gold at the 2011 FIBO Pro Pro Fitness event held in Essen, Germany. Her high flying routine is always full of crazy strength moves and this time was no different. She upset Camala Rodriquez, the favorite heading into the show and last weekend’s New York Pro Fitness champion. Rodriquez was relegated to third. Diana Monteiro made an impression on the judges by locking up second place in her pro debut. She was crowned the Arnold Amateur overall fitness winner last month.

 


A very impressive showing for the Brazilian fitness champion. That puts two rookies in the Olympia, both qualifying in their pro debuts. Last weekend, Michelle Blank locked up an Olympia birth at the New York Pro.

FIBO Power Pro Fitness Results
1. Regiane Da Silva
2. Diana Monteiro
3. Camala Rodriguez
4. Liudmila Somkina
5. Minna Pajulahti
6. Stacy McDowell
7. Ryall Graber-Vasani

Check out competition photos on www.team-andro.com

Props: team-andro.com for the lead photo.



FIBO Power Pro Fitness Photos & 2-Piece Callouts


Round one is in the books at the 2011 FIBO Power Pro Fitness and your guess is as good as mine as to who will finish on top. The callouts hint to Regiane Da Silva winning the 2-piece round with Camala battling for second. Regiane certainly has one of the best routines in this line up but I wouldn’t have pegged her winning the physique round. There does tend to be a trend in European shows that favor the more muscular physiques. We’ll see how things shake out after the routine rounds.

 

Competitor Line Up:
1. Regiane Da Silva
2. Ryall Graber-Vasani
3. Stacy McDowell
4. Diana Monteiro
5. Minna Pajulahti
6. Camala Rodriguez
7. Ludmila Somkina

1st Call Out:
Regiane Da Silva
Camala Rodriguez
Diana Monteiro

2nd Call Out:
Ryall Graber-Vasani
Stacy McDowell
Minna Pajulahti
Ludmila Somkina

3rd Call Out:
Stacy McDowell
Diana Monteiro
Ludmila Somkina

Final Call Out:
Camala Rodriguez
Stacy McDowell
Ryall Graber-Vasani

See photos from the 2-piece round on www.team-andro.com. The finals will be held in just a few hours and we’ll see who is crowned the Fibo Pro Fitness Queen.

 

 

Props: Team Andro for the lead photo and Shawn Ray for the callouts.



Tanji Johnson OUT of FIBO PRO


We’ll this is certainly news that no one expected. Tanji Johnson will NOT be competing in the FIBO Pro Fitness event this weekend. She shared the news via her Facebook page.

 

Unfortunately, I forgot my passport in Seattle (am currently in JFK) and have exhausted every possibility to get to Germany in time, but it’s not going to happen. I will not be competing in Germany and I am sorry to disappoint all those who were supporting me…and I’m missing the Emerald Cup! I’m beyond sad but I’ll be ok.

 



2011 NPC Emerald Cup


Promoters Brad and Elaine Craig have built the Emerald Cup into one of the premiere NPC events of the year. Every year the show grows and it often showcases some future stars in the industry. This weekend should be no different as hundreds of hardbody men and women head to the Snoqualmie Casino, the beautiful new venue for the event.

 

 

Money Mark Mason will be there photographing the event. Any hardbody peeps competing or attending? Post in the comments below if you are.
More information: www.craigproductions.com



Gina Aliotti: Ten Things I Learned Running A Marathon


Gina Aliotti recently ran a marathon and she’s sharing ten things she learned from the experience. Any one else run a marathon?

 

1. You can bring anything you want with you to the starting line because a sweat bus is available to take all your unnecessary belongings back to the finish line for you! I was wondering what people were doing with their duffel bags!!

2. At mile 7, things were easy. At mile 13 things got harder. At mile 16 you start to question yourself. From mile 16.25-25 you want to quit. From mile 25-26.2 you regain your high and discover energy you thought you never had.

3. You can do ANYTHING you set your mind to but you must take the initial steps!

4. When you think your legs wont move, just move them because they WILL!

5. When your body has had enough, it is time to dig into your mental strength and find it within you to just keep going. Mind over matter.

6. You can run an entire marathon wearing a jacket and without an ipod!!

7. One foot in front of the other WILL take you to the finish line!

8. Gatorade, sliced bananas, oranges can be ingested while you are running!

9. It is possible to finish your first marathon in under 4 hours!

10. After 4 hours of running and 3,000 calories later, Pizza and wine had never tasted better! 🙂

 

Gina Aliotti-Silva
Nutrition, Fitness & Lifestyle Consultant

www.ginaaliotti.com



NPC Orange County Muscle Classic


This weekend, Jon Lindsay plays host to the NPC Orange County Muscle Classic XXXV Bodybuilding, Figure, Men’s Physique, Bikini & Fitness Championships. The show is a National Qualifying event held in Anaheim, California. Ron Avidan will be there covering all the action and reporting on the event. Bodybuilding fans will have the opportunity to see Mr. Olympia Jay Cutler guest pose at the evening show.


More Info:

Cook Auditorium
811 West Lincoln Ave.
Anaheim, CA

Prejudging: 11am
Finals: 6:30pm

musclecontest.com



NPC Pittsburgh & IFBB Pittsburgh Pro


Every year, one of the biggest and best shows of the year takes place in Pittsburgh. Many NPC competitors who have done well at this show have gone on to achieve IFBB Pro status. Jamie Baird, Andrea Watson, Stacy Wright, Vanessa Campbell, Kristen Nagrani, Jessica Jessie, Samantha Morris and Diana Fields all competed at this show and turned pro. That’s just a few of them, the list is much longer than that.

 

 

This show is one of the few times NPC competitors can be judged by many top IFBB Pro judges. Sandy Williamson is the head judge for the women and this is a chance to get valuable feedback from her before hitting the National NPC stage. I’ve seen women compete in this show and have a blunder with tanning, suit choice or presentation and after speaking with Sandy the women correct the mistakes and go on to turn pro. Look for a few future pros to compete in this year’s event.

IFBB Pro Figure
Michelle Bates
Clarissa Franshesca Castaneda
Rachelle Chase
Heather Dees
Ginette Delhas
Mona Muresan
Monica Speking
Alea Suarez
Ann Titone

IFBB Pro Bikini
Jamie Baird
Genevieve Brodeur
Missy Coles
Jennifer Dietrick
Jessica Jessie
Michelle Lamb
Justine Munro
Khanh Nguyen
Allison Rosen

More info:
Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall
Saturday, May 7, 2011
Pittsburgh, PA
GaryUdit.com



Europa Show of Champions – IFBB Figure & Bikini Competitor Lists


Figure and Bikini will return to Orlando, Florida on April 30, 2011. Promoters Ed and Betty Pariso always put on a top notch event that caters to the competitors. Last year Nathalia Melo took top honors in the Bikini Division and Erin Stern was crowned the Figure champion. Who will it be this year?

 

IFBB PRO FIGURE
Holly Beck
Cheryl Brown
Nicole Carter
Vivianna Casarubbia
Ginette Delhas
Alana Hernandez
Candice Keene
CeaAnna Kerr
Kaylen McKenzie
Petra Mertl
Kristen Nagrani
Kat Ramirez
Elvimar Sanchez
Gennifer Strobo
Ann Titone

IFBB PRO Bikini
Jamie Baird
Vanessa Campbell
Trina Goosby
Nathalia Melo
Khanh Nguyen
Kira Rivera
Kristy Robbins

More info:
Orange County Convention Center
Orlando, Florida
April 29th – April 30th, 2011
visionstarinc.com/orlando/home.html

We’ll be there covering the event and doing photo shoots. If you’re looking to shoot during the weekend or the week following, email Isaac for more info.

 

 



Hardbody Photos: New York Pro Fitness


The 2011 New York Pro Fitness is in the books and we were there to capture all the action for Bodybuilding.com. You can check out individual photos, routine images, awards, comparisons and more, right here!


Congratulations to all the hardbody women who competed in this event. The IFBB Pro Fitness division showcases some of the best fitness talent in the world!



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