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Archives for August 2011

Gaspari Nutrition’s Live Olympia Broadcast Hosted by WWE® Diva Kaitlynâ„¢

August 31, 2011 by

One of our most popular contributors, Kaitlyn is taking her bad self back to her roots of bodybuilding and fitness. Yes, that’s right Hardbody peeps you can meet one of the WWE‘s rising stars at this year’s Olympia. We’re stoked that she’ll be there, you can count on some shenanigans taking place when Kaitlyn is around. If you can’t make it to the expo to meet her you can check out Gaspari Nutrition’s Facebook page and tun in LIVE to see her interview a variety of people.

 

I like how progressive Gaspari Nurtirion is with embracing social media and the technology available today. They “get it” and more companies should take note because it’s these types of things that are going to attract new fans and as a company new customers. Props to Rich, Liz, Joe and the entire Gaspari team for bringing this to the fans.

 

PRESS RELEASE
Lakewood, NJ. Gaspari Nutrition, a global leader in sports nutrition and supplementation, will host the industry’s first ever live broadcast from the Joe Weider’s 2011 Olympia Expo, September 16-17, 2011 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Viewers from anywhere in the world can access the live feed on the company’s Facebook page www.facebook.com/gasparinutrition from 10AM PT. to 5PM PT., on both Friday and Saturday.

WWE® Diva Kaitlyn™ will host live interviews from the Gaspari Nutrition booth. Viewers can expect to see Rich Gaspari, CEO and Team Gaspari athletes including Brian Stann, Flex Lewis, Hidetada Yamagishi, Ava Cowan, Jaime Baird and more. Kaitlyn, a former NPC Figure Competitor is excited to come back to her roots in fitness and health. “I can’t wait for the Olympia. This is the industry’s most prestigious event, and I am thrilled to have the opportunity to host for Gaspari Nutrition.”

Rich explained, “Gaspari Nutrition is an international brand, now in over 85 countries worldwide. The live feed gives us a unique opportunity to build brand awareness, broadcasting the Olympia Weekend through the eyes of Gaspari TV. When the marketing team approached me with the idea, I immediately jumped at the chance to give back to the customers who cannot make it to Las Vegas for the experience. Kaitlyn will be interviewing our athletes, our partners, our customers and various industry leaders. Don’t’ miss it.”

Gaspari Nutrition will give away free samples and promotional items at booth #620 with a special discount code to save money on products and merchandise. Customers will also have the opportunity to take photos and get free autographs from their favorite Team Gaspari athleles. The company will also promote the Olympia experience through an unprecedented giveaway on Facebook and Twitter www.twitter.com/teamgaspari.

Gaspari Nutrition, Inc. was founded in 1998 by former bodybuilding champion, Rich Gaspari. Over the past 13 years, Rich and his team have developed a line of supplements under his name, into one of the most formidable and best loved in the world. His determination and love of the sport of fitness has seen a successful transition evident in his unyielding passion for developing the most effective sports nutrition products the industry has ever seen.

The Olympia Weekend offers something for everyone. The Expo offers visitors an opportunity to interact with their favorites athletes as well as free samples from over 170 companies exhibiting at the expo. Visitors at the 2011 Olympia Weekend will be treated to over 20 competitive events, including bodybuilding, strongman, powerlifting, grappling. Gaspari Nutrition will also host the 2011 FLEX Bikini Contest and the Muscle & Fitness SuperPumpMax Athlete Challenge at the Olympia Expo Hall. For more information about the Olympia Weekend, visit www.mrolympia.com.

© 2011 WWE. All Rights Reserved. WWE® Diva Kaitlyn™

 

Share the news. We’ll see you there peeps!

Kaitlyn photo by Isaac Hinds.

 

 

Filed Under: News & Features, Olympia

Keene Stays Sharp and Wins in Phoenix – Complete Figure Results

August 27, 2011 by

Candice Keene notched her second IFBB Pro Figure win tonight at the Phoenix Pro. Candice was on the money and ended up in the money when the dust settled tonight. Everyone was in agreement that she deserved the win and takes some momentum into the Olympia. View photos from the show here.

Jamie DeBernard who turned pro at the 2011 NPC USA made a strong showing when she debuted in Dallas and took that head of steam into Arizona. She edged out Alea Suarez by one point. Alea was much improved from Dallas and it paid off. She will head to her first Olympia as with Jamie.

Felicia Romero was not at her best but will look to regroup and get back in the mix come Olympia time. Felicia finished fourth just ahead of Heather Dees who has been competing since the Spring. Heather wasn’t quite as sharp as I’ve seen her earlier in the year. Alicia Harris who wasn’t at her best but still very good finished in sixth. I would have had Alicia a bit higher but if she can sharpen up just a bit heading into the Olympia she will be a contender.

2011 IFBB PHOENIX PRO WOMEN’S FIGURE:
1. Candice Keene*
2. Jami DeBernard*
3. Alea Suarez*
4. Felicia Romero
5. Heather Dees
6. Alicia Harris
7. Elisha Archibald
8. Kaylen McKenzie
9. Eleni Plakitsi
10. Crystal Chiles
11. Heather Grace
12. Sarah Dominguez
13. Michele Mayberry
14. Natalie Calland
15. Teresita Morales
16. Ann Pratt
16. Chelsey Morgenstern
16. Deborah Denio
16. Emily Nicholson
16. Jennifer DeJoya
16. Karly Woodle
16. Kiana Phi
16. Kimberly Sheppard
16. Lisa Maloy
16. Mikaila Soto
16. Mikhaylova Natalia
16. Raechelle Chase
16. Stefanie Bambrough
16. Tamee Marie

*Qualifies for the 2011 Olympia.

Check out photos from the Figure competition here.

Filed Under: Contest Results, IFBB

Dianna Dahlgren wins the IFBB Phoenix Pro – Full Results

August 27, 2011 by

Dianna Dahlgren notched her second win IFBB pro victory tonight at the 2011 Phoenix Pro. She beat out a competitive field of 19 women in the bikini division. She took the show with an unamious decision. She now positions herself as a top 6 contender heading into the Olympia. Check out show photos here.

Taking second was Cristina Vujnich who turned pro earlier this year. Christina Vargas brought her best bikini package to date and it paid off.

Rounding out the top five was Juliana Daniell in fourth who wasn’t at her best but still one of the best in the biz. Roya Tehrani made her pro debut after taking the overall at the 2011 Team Universe.

Check back for a complete wrap up and critique of all the competitors later. Congratulations ladies.

2011 IFBB PHOENIX PRO WOMEN’s BIKINI:
1. Dianna Dahlgren*
2. Cristina Vujnich*
3. Christina Vargas*
4. Juliana Daniell
5. Roya Tehrani
6. Jennifer Deitrick
7. Diana Graham
8. Christie Marquez
9. Jessica Clay
10. Laura Calderon
11. Tiffany Boydston
12. Michele D’Angona
13. Kelly Gonzalez
14. Nicole Coleman
15. Safiya Johnson
16. Bernadett Matassa
16. Beth White
16. Khanh Nguyen
16. Rachel Labender

*Qualifies for 2011 Olympia.

View competition photos from this event here.

Filed Under: Contest Results, IFBB

IFBB Phoenix Pro Figure & Bikini Prejudging Recap

August 27, 2011 by

The IFBB Figure and Bikini pros took the stage in Mesa, Arizona and battled it out at one of the last shows before the 2011 Olympia. There were a few surprises this morning but when the dust settles in the desert it will be Candice Keene and Dianna Dahlgren on top.

In Bikini look for Dianna Dahlgren to capture her second title of her career. She was fourth in Dallas but many people had her winning. It looks like the judges agreed with the audience and press this time around and I have her a lock for first. The two surprises of the show come in the way of second and third place. It looks like Cristina Vujnich will be in the runner-up position and Christina Vargas taking third. Now this could change but both looked like they were in position to head to the 2011 Olympia. Roya Tehrani and Julianna Daniell will battle for the remaining top spots. Julianna was a little off her best but she still looked stunning. Roya made her pro debut and should finish in the top 5 but a top three spot will be tough. Jennifer Dietrick looks to be a lock for 6th.

The figure division it was no question, at least in my opinion, that Candice Keene will leave with another pro victory. She had the shape and conditioning that bestest the field of 29 IFBB Figure Pros. Jami DeBenard and Alea Suarez look to be gunning for second and third. They are definitely in the top 5 but where they will finish is a crap shoot. I’d probably go Alea in second and Jami in third. Heather Dees was in the middle but was moved to the outside. I’d have her fifth based on where the judges positioned her. The surprise, to some, in Figure was Felicia Romero. Many felt she would be the figure queen here but she was way off her best. I’m not trying to sound harsh as I like Felicia however I wouldn’t have her in the top six. I thought her suit bottom cut wasn’t flattering, her tan was off and overall conditioning was lacking. I think the judges will have her in fourth but that’s a bit generous from my stand point. Rounding out the top six will be Alicia “Smiley” Harris. Alicia wasn’t 100% but she was close. I would have her in the hunt for the top three but it looks like she could be 5 or 6th tonight.

Follow twitter.com/musclePhone for live updates throughout the show. See ya there! Showtime starts at 6pm Arizona time.

Filed Under: IFBB

Live Coverage from the IFBB Phoenix Pro

August 27, 2011 by

Follow all the action from the 2011 IFBB Phoenix Pro here on Hardbody.com. If you’re on twitter, you can see the live updates via twitter.com/hardbodynews, twitter.com/MusclePhone, twitter.com/FLEX_Magazine and twitter.com/BBcomcontests. Joining in the coverage? Use the hashtag #PhoenixPro for the event in all your tweets. You can see what everyone is tweet’n about with that tag by checking out hashtags.org/PhoenixPro.



Filed Under: IFBB, News & Features

Michelle Wood-Seng on ABC’s Take The Money & RUn

August 25, 2011 by

NPC Bikini Competitor Michelle Wood-Seng recently competed at the NPC Masters Nationals where she finished 4th in her class. One of the coolest parts of the competitions, at least to me, are the stories behind the competitors and what they do away from the stage. Michelle is a perfect example of how she rocks a hardbody off stage as much as she does on. Michelle is a homicide detective in Chicago and earlier this week was featured on the new ABC show, Take The Money & Run.

 

The premise of the show is real detectives try to find a case of money that civilians have hidden. They have 48 hours to find the case. If they find it they get 100k and if they don’t then the civilians get to keep the money. It’s an “Amazing Race” type of show and this was the first I had watched it. I found myself cracking up at the domestic partners who were featured as one of the guys broke down into tears. I won’t ruin how the show went but let’s say you don’t want to mess with a Hardbody Detective. You can watch the entire episode on ABC’s web site. Look for the “Who’s playing Whom?” episode.

If you doubt Michelle’s “real world” experience away from the tv check out this story. Michelle and her partner solved a huge murder and it received a ton of press in the Chicago area. This is pretty impressive given that Michelle was dieting for a competition throughout the case. She’s part of the Team Bombshell Bikini team and credits having a plan to keeping her on her diet throughout the madness.

Props Michelle! You’re definitely A HARDBODY!

Filed Under: News & Features

Like Erin Stern & She Might Answer Your Questions on Video

August 22, 2011 by

IFBB Figure Pro Erin Stern is in full prep mode heading into her Olympia title defense. If you’ve seen her videos you know she’s not messing around this time around. Erin gets bombarded with questions on a regular basis and while she can’t answer all of them she does her best to try and get back to all her fans. She’s teamed up with HARDBODY.com to interact with you the fans directly.

It’s simple. “Like” Erin’s Facebook page and if you have a question for her post it on her wall but be sure you mention you’re a HARDBODY. Something like, “Erin, I’m a HARDBODY and I was wondering if you eat hard boiled eggs during your contest prep?” Each Wednesday, Erin will personally answer some of your questions via video and we’ll share it here each week. So get to click’n peeps because the first video will be shot this week!

 

Filed Under: News & Features, Olympia

Figure Champ Nicole Wilkins Answers Your Questions

August 22, 2011 by

IFBB Figure Pro Nicole Wilkins checks in with her latest Hardbody blog and answers your questions. Nicole will compete in the 2011 IFBB Tournament of Champions Figure contest and then attempt to regain her title of Figure Olympia Champion. She will then head to India to compete in the Sheru Classic. Check out what Nicole has been up to (besides prepping for three shows in a row) and she answers some of your questions.

Hey Hardbodies! It’s been a while! I am now in the heart of my prep for 3 shows in a row… what was I thinking!? I am going to do the Tournament of Champions in Culver City Sept 10, then stay out in California before making the drive to Vegas for the Figure Olympia 6 days later and then finally off to the Sheru Classic in Mumbai, India the weekend after that. I am feeling fantastic and ready to rock and roll!

So since I have written last, I have made my rounds with Met-RX to just about every national show and met a lot of you, promoted the 2nd annual NPC Nicole Wilkins and Natural Michigan Championships, redid my website www.nicolewilkins.com and, of course, begun my prep. Life is good!

Here are some of the questions you have submitted to me through my website or facebook:

1. How do you deal with food cravings?
I get cravings almost every day, especially around 4pm and/or right before I go to bed. The afternoon is easier to deal with since most days I just keep myself busy at work. Nighttime is the hardest for me since I am sitting for once and the kitchen is within reach! What helps me at those times is drinking hot tea (Vanilla Chai is my favorite) with vanilla liquid Stevia, snacking on a few raw peppers or cucumbers, chugging water, reading a book, working on the computer, or closing my bedroom door and going to bed early! It also helps to eat solid meals every 2-3 hrs through the day beginning with breakfast each day. If you are really hungry at night, you may not be eating enough earlier in the day.

2. My loved ones are resisting my clean eating efforts. How can I get them to join me?
Once you have seen results from eating clean foods, it is natural to want everyone to join in. But undoing years of poor eating isn’t easy and you will probably experience a lot of resistance at first. You can’t make someone eat a certain way, especially if they are not ready to make a lifestyle change, but these things may help:

– Let them know what you are doing and why it is important to you.
– Have them pick out a healthy recipe and cook it together.
– Be gentle, quiet and persistent, don’t bug them about not eating clean. Remember they will only do it when they are ready.
– Go to the gym together. This may motivate them to eat healthier.

3. Is there a piece of advice that overlooked at first, but eventually became something you ended up incorporating into your daily or weekly routine?
Mindless snacking is a huge one.Every extra bite adds up through out the day, so if you think that one piece of candy (5x during the day) or the extra scoop or two of peanut butter isn’t going to matter, before you know it you have eaten en extra 500 calories that day.

As far as training, developing the mind-muscle connection is so important. Don’t rush. Concentrate on the muscle you are working and understand how to work muscles from all angles. Mix it up and try new exercises. I still struggle at times with the mind-muscle connection on my arm training days. It is not my favorite to do and I can easily lose focus and just try to rush to get it done. I am really trying to slow the reps down and focus on the range of motion, on stretching, flexing and squeezing the muscle. Weight doesn’t matter to me for the most part – I of course want to push myself, but what is most important is proper form and making sure I am keeping continuous tension on the muscle I am working, throughout the range of motion.

4. What is one kitchen appliance you couldn’t live without?
My grill pan 🙂 I use this to grill my veggies, chicken and turkey patties.

5. Who inspires you?
My parents. They are my absolute favorite people in this entire world. They have instilled hard work eithic and support me 100% in all I do. I obviously would not be here or where I am not without them in my life. Not to sound cheesy but, aside from them – YOU guys inspire me, as does everyone who lives to better them self and embark on a healthy lifestyle. Keep following your dreams!!

Please be sure to check out my facebook page at www.facebook.com/nicolewilkins01 and let me know of any questions you would like me to answer in future hardbody blogs. Wishing you all my best. Until next time…

 

Filed Under: BLOGS, Olympia

Jamie Eason’s LiveFit Trainer – Shape Your Body in 12 Weeks

August 22, 2011 by

Jamie Eason has taken the fitness world by storm over the last few years. As a Bodybuilding.com spokesmodel, living fit is a way of life and now you can follow her very own 12 week training program to help you shape the body you desire. Jamie’s LiveFit trainer is a simple 3-phase program that walks you through every step of the process from workouts to nutrition and supplementation.

A 12-Week Program For You!
As a fitness professional and Bodybuilding.com spokesmodel, I’m often asked, “How do I get in shape? How can I improve my muscle tone? How can I look more like you?!”

How Can I Look More Like You?!

I always try to offer answers and some encouragement, and I’ve received so much inspiration back in return from all of you. But as much as I love those opportunities to help people transform, they’re one-on-one interactions. Now, to answer the thousands of questions I’ve received over the years–and to reach those of you I would never otherwise meet–I’ve come up with one great program: my 12-week trainer. Your transformation guide; our partnership in fitness.

Who’s this program for? Anyone of any age, of any sex, and from any walk of life. Including you. It’ll produce great results and lead to lasting success for everyone. You’re all starting from a unique place; no one has perfectly matched genetics, metabolism, hormones, and lifestyles. But the beauty of this program is that you start at your own level and work at your own pace. Everyone’s body is different, but the same training, diet, and supplement principles work for nearly everyone.

Visit Bodybuilding.com to get started and follow Jamie’s 12 week program.

 

Filed Under: News & Features

Dianna Dahlgren Returns as Miss Supercross for 2012 Season

August 22, 2011 by

Top fitness model and IFBB Bikini Competitor, Dianna Dahlgren has been busy this year as Miss Supercross. As Miss Supercross, Dianna travels nearly every weekend across the United States and Canada. She did such an impressive job that she’s been signed to a second season as Miss Supercross. Congratulations Dianna!

 

 

AURORA, Ill (August 19, 2011) – Feld Motor Sports® announced today that Dianna Dahlgren of Los Angeles, Calif., who served as Miss Supercross for the 2011 Monster Energy AMA Supercross, an FIM World Championship season, will return as Miss Supercross for the 2012 season, which kicks off January 7 at Anaheim’s Angel Stadium.

Dahlgren enters her second year as Miss Supercross, where she represents the sport of supercross through a variety of promotional opportunities, including on and off-track reporting and interacting with fans. Dahlgren will also accompany the world’s fastest riders atop the podium at the closing of each race.

“I am so excited to be appointed as Miss Supercross for a second year,” said Dahlgren. “I feel blessed to be given this opportunity again and I can’t wait to be back at the races! The fans of supercross are one of a kind, and I enjoy being around them. Special thanks go out to Feld Motor Sports for making this a dream come true!”

While balancing her day-to-day Miss Supercross duties, Dahlgren is also an active competitor in the bikini division of the International Federation of BodyBuilders (IFBB), which is the highest form of competitive bodybuilding in the world. Throughout her career, Dahlgren has one professional IFBB victory under her belt, as well as three victories in the amateur ranks.

Dahlgren Enters her Second Year as Miss Supercross Starting January 7, 2012 at Angel Stadium in Anaheim

Fans will have the opportunity to meet and greet Dahlgren throughout the 2012 season. Don’t forget to bring a camera! To view more images of Dahlgren, click here.

Tickets for the 2012 Monster Energy Supercross season are now available. For more information please visit www.SupercrossOnline.com or www.Ticketmaster.com.

For more information on the Monster Energy AMA Supercross, an FIM World Championship, please log on to www.SupercrossOnline.com. For all media requests, please contact Denny Hartwig dhartwig@feldinc.com or 630-566-6305. To follow Monster Energy Supercross on Facebook and Twitter, log on to http://www.facebook.com/supercrosslive and http://twitter.com/supercrosslive.

About Feld Motor Sports®
Feld Motor Sports®, Inc. is the world leader in specialized arena and stadium-based motor sports entertainment. Feld Motor Sports, Inc. productions include Advance Auto Parts Monster Jam®, Monster Energy Supercross, AMA Arenacross Series, Nuclear Cowboyz℠, and IHRA® Nitro Jam®. Feld Motor Sports, Inc. is a division of Feld Entertainment, the world’s largest producer of live family entertainment. For more information on Feld Entertainment, visit www.feldentertainment.com.

 

Be sure to become a fan on Dianna’s Facebook page and follow her on twitter @DiannaDahlgren.

 

Filed Under: News & Features

Healthy Homemade Croutons from Gina Aliotti

August 22, 2011 by

Gina Aliotti has a healthy tip on how you can make your own croutons for your salads. I admit, I’m intrigued and will have to give it a try. Check it out and if you decide to make these let us know how it goes.

G’S TIP OF THE WEEK
We all love croutons and the added crunch and flavor they give to our salads but watch out they can be deadly. Store bought croutons are typically processed white bread made with cheap unhealthy oils and other unwanted ingredients. Make your own croutons to get that added crunch without the added fat and calories. Making your own croutons is really simply and allows you to enjoy that little crunch with every bite! Try my Herbed Croutons and give your salad a healthy guilt free crunch!

Herbed Croutons
• 3 slices multi-grain bread (I typically use Ezekiel Bread)
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
• pepper, to taste

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Slice bread into cubes. Place cubes in mixing bowl and add olive oil and herbs, generously tossing to coat all cubes with oil. Place on baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes. At about 5 minutes gently move around cubes and allow to continue cooking. Then turn on the broiler** for about a minute and allow them to get nice and crispy.

** When on broil, watch closely as these get crisp really fast!

Gina Aliotti
Nutrition, Fitness & Lifestyle Consultant
www.ginaaliotti.com
F www.facebook.com/GinaAliotti
T www.twitter.com/GinaAliotti

Filed Under: Competitor's Corner, Recipes

NPC Bikini Competitor Nola June Wins Kickboxing Debut

August 22, 2011 by

NPC Bikini competitor, Nola June kicked her way out of the womb at birth and she hasn’t stopped yet. Although she doesn’t like to talk about it much, she’s been a ninja since birth and if you have any doubts look no further than the results of her kickboxing debut. When asked if she would be a ring girl for a night of fights in Charlotte, North Carolina, Nola asked to fight instead.

Nola’s a top national NPC competitor placing in the top five numerous times. Why would a bikini competitor step into a ring to fight? Nola tells me she’s been practicing some from a mixed martial arts for the last three years and taken a liking to muay thai. When the opportunity presented itself to fight for the first time and put her sparring to use, she jumped at the chance. Nola won her fight by unanimous decision but says next time it will be by knock out. Congrats Nola and who says bikini women aren’t tough?


Nola winning her kickboxing debut. Photo courtesy of Nola June.

 

Filed Under: MMA, News & Features

WWE Diva Kaitlyn’s Corner – Spread Some Positive Juju

August 19, 2011 by

Our favorite WWE Diva, Kaitlyn checks in with her newest blogsky. Despite being on the road, or in the air, non-stop she’s live’n and love’n life. It can be easy to get caught up in all the annoying little things in life but in this installment she reminds us all that being polite and positive can go a long way to creating a happy place.

From Kaitlyn:
So here I am. Seat 8C, on a flight to Los Angeles, CA. I’ve had a crazy week of travel. East coast to West coast, West coast to East coast, Midwest to middle earth somewhere… My body is tired and my mind… Well, I lost it going through security at Houston’s Bush International airport.

Kaitlyn hit Muscle Beach while in LA. She’s looking HARDBODY!

I boarded the plane really early, got comfy and sat back to watch everyone find their way to their seat. Ok, I didn’t actually “sit back” because for some reason most airlines think it’s funny to make the seats so uncomfortable that it feels as though you are actually leaning forward. Anyways, back to the action.

First, I watched the ridiculously uptight flight attendant controlling the flow of traffic at the the front of the plane. If her lips were pursed any tighter, she would look like the “bitter beer face” guy. She was in no mood for shenanigans. Annnnd since “Shenanigans” is my middle name, I decided that I wouldn’t be bothering her at any point during this three hour tour. She was barking orders at passengers, acting so inconvenienced to have to help anyone put their bags away. I’m pretty sure she eats babies on her lunch break. I covered my mouth and nose in order to prevent myself from catching her contagious negativity.


Bitter Beer Face guy.

Next, I got eyes on the very overweight man squeezing into his window seat, nearly crushing the pelvis of the terrified man in the middle seat. Come on man, let the guy get up to let you by. He didn’t ask for a lap dance… To spite how erotic that may have been. Then this jumbo jerk had the balls to rudely get the flight attendant’s attention by snapping his fingers. What possibly could have been so important you ask??? He needed a seat belt extender!! Ugh, have you no shame!?

Now we get to the super jacked guy lugging his bags in one hand and balancing a fast food bag, a 30 oz soda, and some sort of man purse in the other hand. By the way, I’m not knocking the man purse. It’s sort of looks like my new satchel… you know like Indiana Jones, but cooler. Anyway so this guy struggles on past me with all of his belongings and then realizes he’s supposed to be in first class. Wow. So he turns around shoving through people still trying to make it to their seats. Plowing through women, children, cute puppies. (ok, there weren’t any puppies). He clearly has his mind set on the double McHeartAttack sammich in his hand.

All three of these characters, in the ongoing situational comedy that is my life, have one thing in common. They all have very little manners and had little or regard for others. Many other people were effected by these jackasses and their actions. The flight attendant was rude and belittled undeserving passengers. The heavy mouth breather guy nearly crushed the man next to him and possibly molested him. He also showed very little respect to the innocent flight attendant. The big muscle head pushed people out of the way and felt it was his right for one reason or another. Maybe he felt this way because he was chiseled like a Greek God or maybe just because his mama didn’t teach him any manners. Who’s to say that everyone who was directly effected doesn’t do the same thing to someone else just because they had a bad experience and it dampened their day?

I guess what I realized is that having a bad attitude and little regard for people around you is like having the flu and spreading your germs to everyone around you. I know I don’t want your bad attitude bird flu germs.

Thumbs up during the WWE Summer Slam.

The point is that if negative energy spreads like wild fire, imagine what a little positive juju could do. I strongly believe that doing nice things, smiling and even just having some manners goes a long way. It’s also makes you feel good about yourself. This flight was A little reminder to myself that no matter how little sleep I’ve had, how achy my feet are from uncomfortable shoes or how bad my face hurts from the wrath of feisty female wrestlers, being positive and polite goes along way. Spread the love peeps. It will probably make your day a little happier, your workout a little better, and your overall outlook a little brighter.

Follow her on twitter.com/kaitylnWWE and give her a HARDBODY hello.

Filed Under: Celebrity Fitness, Kaitlyn's Corner

Muscle Egg Model Search with Hardbody

August 18, 2011 by

Are you a hardbody? Of course you are or you wouldn’t be here, right?! Right. Ok, now that we have that out of the way click on over to MuscleEgg’s Facebook fan page and “like” it. Aside from their awesome tasting egg whites (the chocolate flavored ones are the bomb), they are holding a model search that is offering a ton of great prizes to one lucky hardbody woman.


To enter this contest it’s simple. “Like” the MuscleEgg Facebook page and submit your best photo for a chance to become the first MuscleEgg Girl. The winner will receive an all expenses paid trip to Last Vegas for the 2011 Mr. Olympia, Two (2) gallons of MuscleEgg egg whites a month for six months, hang out at the MuscleEgg booth during the Olympia Expo and a photo shoot with Hardbody.com’s Isaac Hinds.  The winner will be chosen based on the image with the most “likes” the contest runs until September 10, 2011. The contest is open to US Residents and you must be 21 years of age.

Good luck Hardbody women and we’ll see you in Vegas!

Filed Under: News & Features

IFBB Figure Pro Stephanie Billings Signs with BeautyFit

August 18, 2011 by

IFBB Figure Pro Stephanie Billings achieve pro status at the 2009 Team Universe and has been refining her physique since she’s hit the pro stage. The blonde-haired hardbody is currently prepping for the 2011 Ft. Lauderdale Cup which will be held the first week of October. Supplement company BeautyFit issued a release earlier this week announcing they have signed the IFBB figure pro to an endorsement contract. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed however look for Stephanie to be featured in the company’s upcoming marketing campaign.


Company Announcement:


BeautyFitâ„¢ Announces Signing of IFBB Figure Pro Stephanie Billings
Ft. Lauderdale, Florida – August 14, 2011 – BeautyFit™ Inc, the company that developed the revolutionary Fat-Loss Catalyst BEAUTYFUEL™ and anti-cellulite fat loss lotion BEAUTYBUM™ is pleased to announce the newest member of its growing family with the signing of IFBB Figure Pro Stephanie Billings. One of the most photographed and inspiring professional figure models in the world, Stephanie joins the company as its newest spokeswoman.

BeautyFit™ Chief Executive Jimmy Mentis explains, “Stephanie embodies everything we are about. She’s educated, passionate and she has a tenacious desire to make the world a healthier place. As the BeautyFit™ movement continues to grow, Stephanie will help us grow our brand and represent our efforts in the most positive way possible.”

Look for Stephanie to hit the IFBB Pro stage at the IFBB/NPC Ft Lauderdale Cup and keep an eye out for her in the company’s upcoming international marketing campaign.

To learn more about BeautyFitâ„¢ visit www.BeautyFit.com.

Any time a female can get an endorsement contract is a WIN for all women. Congrats Stephanie and best of luck in the Ft. Lauderdale Cup.

Photo by Rob Rosetti.

 

Filed Under: News & Features

Video: Kristal Richardsons Tips on How to Lose Fat & Gain Muscle

August 18, 2011 by

IFBB Figure Pro and TightCurves spokesmodel, Kristal Richardson shares her video tips on how to lose fat and gain muscle. It might be elementary to some of you however we have a number of new visitors every day who ask this very question.

In addition to these simple, easy to follow diet tips, Kristal recommends supplementing your diet with Top Secret Nutrition’s Diet Accelerator. Visit http://www.topsecretnutrition.com and receive 50% off this product. Just enter the code DIET at checkout.

Anyone tried the Diet Accelerator yet? Let us know what you think if you have.

Filed Under: Competition Nutrition, News & Features, Videos

New Bold & Fresh Design to Diet Coke Can

August 18, 2011 by

Diet Coke was introduced back in 1982 and the look has remained relatively unchanged until now. This Fall a new can will hit store shelves and it’s designed to have a modern look to a classic product. Don’t worry the taste will go unchanged, whether that’s good or bad we’ll leave up to you. Personally, I’m a fan of Diet Coke and when asked, “Is Diet Pepsi ok?” at a restaurant I say um, no.

According to ADWEEK.com the can is part of a partnership with the fashion web site StyleCaster.com. A new trendy look for Fall. Seeing how the products stack up in the image below is pretty cool.

I’m a fan of any company who pays attention to their product and packaging design. So many companies fail miserably at it. I think Diet Coke is WINNING with the redesign. What do you think?

{democracy:206}

Images from Adweek.com & thesfegotist.com.

Filed Under: News & Features

Erin Stern Crushes Dumbbells on Incline Bench

August 18, 2011 by

The Figure Olympia is only 4 weeks away and the defending champ, Erin Stern is training harder than ever. If you’ve doubted the strength of a champion female competitor, watch this video and think again.

In this video clip Erin easily presses 50lb dumbbells for six, controlled, full range repetitions. She shows why she has one of the best hardbody physiques in the world. Check it!

Follow Erin on Twitter @ERINFAST and subscribe to her YOUTUBE Channel to see more training clips as she heads into Vegas to defend her title.

Filed Under: Competitor's Corner, Olympia, Videos

Win Free Tickets to the 2011 Olympia

August 17, 2011 by

Thanks to NPC NEWS you have a chance to win FREE tickets to this year’s Olympia. All you have to do is enter your contact info on the Mr. Olympia web site and you can see Adela Garcia attempt to defend her fitness crown, Sonia Gonzales look to retain her Bikini title and Erin Stern battle Nicol Wilkins in Figure. This and more all taking place next month in Las Vegas!

NPC NEWS 25TH ANNIVERSARY
For a quarter of a century, what has been your go-to source for all things NPC? NPC News magazine, of course! What started as a four-page newsletter in 1986 has morphed into one of the industry leaders in contest coverage, boasting 300-plus pages and featuring world-class photos of the brightest stars in the sport — plus smoking-hot layouts of some of the world’s most beautiful women.

Now, to celebrate its 25th anniversary in true groundbreaking fashion, NPC News is revamping npcnewsonline.com to become your one-stop shop for everything to do with the National Physique Committee. Contest photos and wrap-ups, breaking news, judges’ commentary, Q&As with the best in the business — everything you need, whether you’re a budding competitor looking to make a name for yourself or a die-hard fan of the sport.

And the icing on the cake? NPC News, in conjunction with the Mr. Olympia, LLC, is giving away two free VIP tickets to 2011 Olympia Weekend. That’s right — you could experience the sport’s biggest four-day event in true high-roller fashion — absolutely free! Just fill out the form below and do it now because this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity ends September 9. And be sure to check out the NPC Web site at npcnewsonline.com.

http://www.mrolympia.com/giveaway/

 

Filed Under: Olympia

2011 IFBB Europa Super Show Dallas Bikini Results & Recap

August 15, 2011 by

The 2011 Europa Super Show Dallas was one of the most talked about events of the weekend. Natalie Pennington notched her first pro win in the IFBB and Jessica Jessie finished in the runner-up position. Reigning Bikini Olympia champ, Sonia Gonzales was relegated to third. Since the top three women were already qualified for the Olympia, the fourth place finisher Dianna Dahlgren secured her spot in the big dance.

I try not to be overly critical of the judging at shows because it’s subjective and it’s not an easy job to do despite what some might think. The judges had their work cut out for them at this competition because most of the women showed up in rare form and not in a good way. In a trend that I hope we see end here, the women were way too conditioned and overly lean. It’s not a good look for bikini and one that should be avoided. Natalie Pennington was the ideal on this day for the judges but that’s not say it’s the ideal on every day. The judges can only judge what is presented on the day of the show. Jessica Jessie brought back her side walk for some reason and while she has a nice look in photos, I didn’t have her in my top five because of her conditioning or lack there of in the lower body. Sonia Gonzales may have made a misstep by doing this show and finishing in third. She took some of the wind out of her sails heading into the Olympia and will have her work cut out for her to defend her title. Two weeks prior to the show I think she looked her best but you’re judged on that day. I thought her upper body, specifically her shoulders and arms looked a little too muscular for bikini and she may have gotten a bit of a pass from the judges this time around. I don’t think she’ll be as fortunate if she presents the same look at the Olympia. Dianna Dahlgren was the winning on everyone’s score card from the pit and most in the audience. She wasn’t 100% at prejudging as her posing needed a little polishing and her upper body needed to fill out a bit. When she took the stage for the evening show she was on the money though. She was more relaxed and her upper body filled out. This typically happens when a competitor eats some sugar or has a bit more water. Look for her to be the one to beat at the Arizona Pro.

I’m not sure why the women felt the need to come in so lean but I hope the women of the IFBB bring back the softer, curvier look for the Olympia and the judges reward that and send a message by placing the overly lean physiques lower.

Check out photos from the event on Bodybuilding.com and FLEXonline.com.

IFBB Europa Super Show Dallas Bikini Results:
1. Natalie Pennington (USA)
2. Jessica Jessie (USA)
3. Sonia Gonzales (USA)
4. Dianna Dahlgren (USA)
5. Jessica Anderson (USA)
6. Cristina Vujnich (USA)
7. Amanda Duncan (USA)
8. Talia Terese Crowell (USA)
9. Brook Mora (USA)
10. Janet Harding (USA)
11. Dayna Maleton (USA)
12. Jennifer Andrews (USA)
13. Nicole Coleman (USA)
14. Taylor Matheny (USA)
15. Christie Marquez (USA)

 

 

Filed Under: Contest Results, IFBB

2011 IFBB Europa Super Show Dallas Figure Results

August 15, 2011 by

History was made in Dallas, Texas over the weekend at the IFBB Europa Super show. Ava Cowan won her first professional figure competition and deservedly so. Deena Walsh brought her best physique to date and it earned her a second place finish and a trip to the Olympia. Ella Horton blew bast women 1/2 her age and showed that age is only a number. Ella will be take the Olympia stage at 50 years of age! One look at her physique and you’d never guess she was rock’n a 50 year old hardbody. That’s impressive. Congratulations ladies!


IFBB Europa Super Show Dallas Figure Results:
1. Ava Cowan (USA)
2. Deena Walsh (USA)
3. Ella Horton (USA)
4. Heather Dees (USA)
5. Jami DeBernard (USA)
6. Alea Suarez (USA)
7. Julie Ann Kulla (USA)
8. Charmayne Jackson (USA)
9. Candice Houston (USA)
10. Kimberly Sheppard (USA)
11. Catherine Holland (USA)
12. Josie Zamora (USA)
13. Kavvy Sonhos (USA)
14. Michelle Bates (USA)
15. Danielle Kifer (USA)
16. Rebecca Bowers (USA)
17. Tivisay Briceno (USA)
17. Clarissa Castaneda (El Salvador)
17. Soleivi Hernandez (USA)
17. Georgina Lona (Mexico)
17. Benincia Lopez (USA)
17. Tamee Marie (USA)
17. Vicki Nixon (USA)
17. Marie Pierre Ripert (France)
17. Elvimar Sanchez (Venezuela)
See photos from the show on Bodybuilding.com and FLEXonline.com.

 

Filed Under: Contest Results, IFBB

IFBB Europa Super Show Bikini Prejudging Recap

August 13, 2011 by

Heading into the 2011 IFBB Europa Super Show I thought it would be the most competitive bikini show we’d see all year. I was wrong. It looked like a stacked line up and with each woman at their best, it would have been. The overwhelming majority of the ladies took the stage looking anything but the best, not all but most.


Let me preface this by saying I have nothing personal against any of the women. They are all in a league of their own in the grand scheme of the world however this is a competition where it’s the best of the best. These are my opinions and not those of anyone but my own. Agree or disagree it’s just how I saw things. Agree? Cool. Disagree? That’s cool too. Chime in with your two cents in the comments below.

I was disappointed in this show as a whole. Overall there were a few women who did well and many others were way off their best. Sadly, the theme I saw with most women was way too conditioned and some looked like they need to go eat a pizza and lay off whatever they did in the final hours of prep. Bikini should not be about extreme conditioning but it also shouldn’t be about fluff. This turned out to be a show of what NOT to do with your conditioning for many of these women. That said there were some highlights to the competition.

Top Contenders
The first call-out was Jessica Anderson, Jessica Jessie, Natalie Pennington, Sonia Gonzales and Dianna Dahlgren. I didn’t have this as my top five but the judges saw it otherwise. It looks like Natalie Pennington could leave Dallas the winner. I wouldn’t have her in my top five. She looks good from the front however when you turn her around she has no booty. I think a competitor should have a butt if they are winning a pro bikini show. Jessica Jessie looks to be in second and I wouldn’t have her in my top five. Jessica looked like she crash dieted or over did the cardio to get into shape. She had noticeable fluff around her knees and her backside. I don’t think a competitor should be rewarded when showing up in that kind of condition. Sonia Gonzales was improved from the Bikini International with her conditioning and had a better booty. After prejudging it looks like she will be in third which I disagree with if that’s how it shakes out. I saw Sonia two weeks ago and she looked like she was ready then. When she tightened up her conditioning she lost the soft, curviness she had. On stage her arms looked a bit too muscular for bikini. If the Sonia of two weeks ago was on stage she’d be the talk of the show. I think she’ll end up in third here. The one everyone is talking about at this show is Dianna Dahlgren. It’s no secret DD can look a little thick in her off season, her words not mine. She was absolutely gorgeous on stage and had one of the best booties in the show. She looked a little thin and too lean in her upper body though. If she was a little fuller up top she would be unstoppable. It looks like she will end up fourth but I would have her winning the show. This was without question her best look to date. If she fills out look for her to win in Phoenix.

Jessica Anderson made her pro debut and she looked her best ever. She needed to be a little tighter in the booty department but she is stunning. This woman is without question one of the most beautiful women you will see in the IFBB. Awesome job in her debut and she will be in the 5-7 range. Cristina Vujnich only did her myspace/zoolander face once so that was an obvious improvement from her past shows. She looked her best and she could end up in fifth. I was impressed with what she brought to the stage in her debut.

Rest of the Pack
Jennifer Andrews was one of the early favorites but came in way, way too lean. It was not a good look for her and she needed to be fuller to be in winning form like she was earlier in the year. Nicole Coleman stripped off a ton of muscle and was the smallest she’s ever been. That said she almost looked too dieted down, which I never thought I’d say. She needed to be a bit fuller to have the contender look but she’s done what I never thought she’d do and that’s have a bikini body. Good progress. Amanda Duncan was one people had on their radar as a top contender. She’ll be in the top ten but needed to be tighter to be higher. Janet Harding looked her best to date and should finish higher than I expected before the show. Good job on her part. Dayna Maleton looked a little too big for her body. She has one of the best booties in the biz and she finally nailed her posing. Now if she can bring the body she had at New York and combine it with the posing she had here she’d be in the mix. Tons of potential if she taps into it and takes a prep a little more serious.

Christie Marquez not bad but needs to stand out a bit more and have some wow factor to her when she takes the stage. Taylor Matheny is cute and I like her look. She poses too much like a figure competitor and I’d like to see her change that up. Brooke Mora looked her best as a pro and yes even better than when she qualified for the Olympia. She could be a bit tighter but overall she showed good progress and I liked the look she brought this time around compared to her previous showings. Talia Terese did the opposite of what I thought might happen. Doing shows back to back can be a challenge for competitors to hold their conditioning. She came in over conditioned and way too hard. When she posed in the individual poses she had noticeable separation in her quads. If she looked like she did in Vegas she would be top 3 but the conditioning she brought this time around won’t land her in the top five.

Overall one of the most disappointing bikini shows of the year. I hope the women and their trainers take note on this show and don’t over do it for future shows. I also hope the judges send a message that over conditioned bikini physiques should not be rewarded but out of shape bodies shouldn’t be rewarded either. It’s a reminder that this is a subjective competition and everyone will have their own take on who they like or don’t.

The finals take place today at 3pm CST. Follow the results on @hardbodynews and see who prevails. You can see the wrap up video from this event on FLEXonline.com.

Filed Under: IFBB

IFBB Europa Super Show – Figure Prejudging Recap

August 13, 2011 by

Ava Cowan was the favorite heading into the 2011 IFBB Europa Supershow Figure competition and she delivered. The prejudging took place on Friday afternoon in Dallas and when Ava’s name was called first, no one was surprised.

There were however a couple of names that did catch people off guard. Ella Horton and Deena Walsh were two women who weren’t on most people’s picks heading into the show, including mine. That said, when the women came out for their individual quarter turns I had Deena in my top call-out. I didn’t have Ella in my short list. Heather Dees rounded out the top call-out.


First call-out – Heather Dees, Ava Cowan, Deena Walsh, Ella Horton

Heather set the bar high qualifying for the Olympia in her first pro show. She looked a little off at this show compared to her previous outings. Heather looked to be holding a bit of water and not quite as crisp as we’ve seen her in the past. I’d like to see her tweak her posing a bit as it’s a little rigid and she stands up-right a bit too much. I have her in third after prejudging.

Ava was the cut and dry winner in my book. She had a new look with her hair, which I liked, and she was a tad softer than in the past. It works for her and was one of her best showings to date. I think her sharpest conditioning was at the Figure International but her overall look here was on the money. She should receive straight ones from the judges and leave Dallas with her first IFBB Pro title.

The surprise of the show was Deena Walsh. This was her best showing to date and I have her in the runner-up position. The look she presented on stage was better than what most of the photos show. She was poised, classy and stood out. Great job from someone who most didn’t pick in their top 10 before the show.

Ella Horton could be third but will likely be fourth. I thought she was a bit off from the back and in the glute area. She’s one of the older competitors on stage and obviously looks great for her age. She didn’t stand out to me in the individual posing rounds and the comparisons but the judges liked what they saw and she’s in the hunt for a qualification.

I have Jami DeBenard in 5th based on the call-outs and had the best debut out of all the rookies. I would have liked to seen her added to the top four women and had we seen that I think she may have moved up. Alea Suarez is in the hunt for a top five spot. The former bikini competitor has really brought up her legs and added some muscle. Figure is definitely a better fit for her. Her tanning was a little light and she could have been a bit sharper but she’s one who can be competitive in the division.

One woman I thought should have been a bit higher was Michelle Bates. I like her physique and think you will see her in the top 5 at some point. The only critique I have on her is a little more roundness to her front delts and change her hair style.

The finals take place at 3pm CST and we’ll see where everyone ends up then. Follow @hardbodynews on twitter for all the updates. Visit FLEXonline.com for photos from the prejudging. See the prejudging recap video I did with FLEX magazine’s online editor, Sean Andros here!

 

Filed Under: IFBB

LIVE HARDBODY COVERAGE – Europa Supershow Dallas

August 12, 2011 by

Follow all the action from the 2011 Europa Supershow Dallas here on Hardbody.com. If you’re on twitter, you can see the live updates via twitter.com/hardbodynews, twitter.com/FLEX_Magazine and twitter.com/BBcomcontests. Joining in the coverage? Use the hashtag #EuropaTX for the event in all your tweets. You can see what everyone is tweet’n about with that tag by checking out hashtags.org/EuropaTX.



Filed Under: IFBB, News & Features

Europa Dallas: IFBB Athlete Check-In Photos

August 12, 2011 by

Check out some of the photos from last night’s athlete check-in. The Figure and Bikini pros were greeted by promoters Ed and Betty Pariso and briefed on the weekend’s event. Each competitor received their number and backstage badges. The prejudging is about to go down but see what happened last night here!


IFBB Bikini Pros Dianna Dahlgren and Brooke Mora

Check out all the photos on Bodybuilding.com from last night’s check-in.

Filed Under: Behind the Scenes, IFBB, News & Features

Hardbody Bikini Preview & Poll: Europa Supershow Dallas

August 12, 2011 by

The 2011 IFBB Europa Supershow Dallas Women’s Bikini will be the most competitive show of the year, at least to date. I think it will be more competitive than the Bikini International and could be every bit as competitive as next month’s Olympia. We’ll see 15 women who on their own turn heads left and right in any room. What happens when they all take to the same stage? We’re about to find out.

 


The HARDBODY Breakdown:

Jessica Anderson: One word. STUNNING! Jess is a name some of you may not remember but you will after this weekend. She is one of the most beautiful women in the IFBB and you may not recall her name because this is her pro debut. She turned pro at the 2009 NPC Nationals and hasn’t taken the stage since. That’s because she’s active duty in the United States NAVY and spent some time deployed overseas. I know she’ll look better than when she turned pro, we’ll have to see if it’s enough to hang in her debut. Regardless, you’ll see a lot more of her coming up.

Jennifer Andrews: Jennifer is up and down in her placings. She could be in the top three or out of the top five. Ordinarily I’d say she’s a favorite for a top three spot but here she’ll have her work cut out for her to crack the top five simply because the field is that good.

Nicole Coleman: She continues to bring her physique down but still packs a bit too much muscle from her power-lifting and figure days. Improvement is the name of Nicole’s game and she’s doing it. Won’t be top five here but if she came finish top 10 would be a win for her.

Dianna Dahlgren: Easily one of the hottest fitness models in the industry but can she translate that to the stage. If she can watch out. We haven’t seen Dianna on stage all year so she might be off her best or she could be at her best. If her booty is tight look for her to be in the top three. Her biggest challenge is presentation, if she can bring some swagga to the stage watch out. Regardless, watch for more Dianna in the magazines in the coming months. She’s an example of a woman who doesn’t have to win a show to get a magazine cover.

Amanda Duncan: A number of people are buzzing about the little blonde Texas tornado. She certainly knows how to work it on stage and this will be her pro debut. I think she’ll be in deep waters and may need a floatie to help her swim with these bikini sharks. She needs to bring a tight booty to hang in the top five, if it is you could see her in the mix.

Sonia Gonzales: The champ has a target on her back and she has used it to fuel herself to coming in better than ever. I think we’ll see an improved booty from Sonia and she will be at her best. She’s a beautiful woman who has improved her physique steadily. She’s not the curviest girl but if she can rock the stage with confidence she’ll be the one to beat. She has shown she’s beatable so it’s not money in the bank for her.

Janet Harding: I love Janet and she is the most persistent woman on the circuit. She’s improved and definitely gotten better but this show will need to be about living in the moment and having fun for her. This is like being in the Olympia for her and if she can finish in the top 10, consider it a win.

Jessica Jessie: Jessica is a bit of a wild card here. When she’s on the money she is in the mix, when she’s off she is way off. I think she’ll have a struggle to be top three here unless her legs are tight. She’s dropped the side walk presentation and toned down the hair flips. She could be top three or on the outside of the top five.

Dayna Maleton: Dayna has one of the best butts in the biz and she’s finally relaxing with her presentation. There’s no question she has the physique to do well it will be how she presents it. If she could finish top five here she should go celebrate with shots of tequila. It will be tough for her to get in there but it is possible.

Christie Marquez: Cute girl but will be one of the women hoping to come in at her all time best. If she can crack the top ten it will be victory for her but this will be her toughest show of her career.

Taylor Matheny: Taylor is adorable. Bubbly personality onstage and off and I hear she’s one helluva a chef. I really like her look and one of the few blondes in the biz. If she can break the top five she should be stoked. It will be her pro debut so she’ll need to put the rookie jitters aside and work it. I like what she’s cook’n up, let’s see if the judges do too.

Brooke Mora: Another gorgeous woman who will likely have more success off stage with her modeling then she will winning shows. She competed in last year’s inaugural Bikini Olympia so she has what it takes to do well. She could be in the top three or on the outside of the top five. It’s her first show of the year so we’ll have to see if she has any bikini rust.

Natalie Pennington: Natalie is a bit of an x factor here. The judges are really drawn to her look and she’s already headed to the Olympia so she has no pressure to qualify. Look for her to be in the first or second call-out.

Talia Terese: Talia is the one to watch out of all the rookies making their pro debut. She won the 2011 NPC USAs just a couple weeks ago and in my opinion it was no contest when it came to picking the overall at that show. She lights up the stage with her smile and has the looks to stop traffic. The question will be how tight her her backside and was she able to stay on her diet since USAs. Competing in shows close together is good for some as they improve with each show and then others it works against them. She’s the rookie to watch, not that it’s a chore to do so.

Cristina Vujnich: She’s one of the few women who can rock short hair and pull it off. It works for her look and she’s an attractive woman. The one thing that could work against her is her facial expressions when she presents herself. I know it sounds silly but I often wonder what she’s thinking while on stage. When she smiles she’s golden when she’s not it’s like she’s trying out for Zoolander. I like her look but I think she’ll struggle to crack the top three in her debut. If she can make top five she should be stoked because even that will be tough here.

A few things I hope NOT to see from these pros today at prejudging. Just MY OPINIONS from someone who is in the pit at nearly every show and seen thousands of bikini competitors since its inception.
• Legs spread wide when posing from the back. It’s not classy and doesn’t flatter your physique so why do it?
• Flipping of the hair by snapping your neck around. Why? It makes you look like you do that for a living off stage. Don’t do it, it’s tacky.
• Don’t do the myspace face or duck bill lips when posing.
• Don’t open your mouth and gasp while posing. You look like a small mouth bass out of water. It’s not a good look, especially in still photos.
• Don’t try to be a cookie cutter. What posing works for one girl doesn’t work for everyone. Just because you see Ali Rosen do a shimmy and a hip pop at the end of her posing doesn’t mean you should. Ali does it and pulls it off as her “signature” pose, find one that works for you.

Cast your vote for who you think will win the Bikini show. I would not want to be a judge at this one, they will have their work cut out for them!

{democracy: 205}
Filed Under: IFBB, Polls

HARDBODY Europa Dallas: Figure Preview and Poll

August 12, 2011 by

This afternoon 25 hardbody IFBB Figure pros will take the stage in hopes of qualifying for the 2011 Olympia. The 2011 Europa Supershow is one of the last chances for women to qualify so look for a few women to step up their game.

The HARDBODY Breakdown:
No disrespect intended to the women in this show but I see this as a two woman race with the rest of the field hoping one slips up and it’s anyone’s game for third. The top two, at least on paper, look to be Ava Cowan and rookie pro Heather Dees. Ava has streamlined her physique and is looking for her first win as an IFBB Pro. It could come this weekend in Dallas. Heather Dees may have a little something to say about that. She’s competing in her first year as a pro and has solidified herself as one of the leading ladies. Heather has toned down her muscle and it’s helped her physique flow better. I look for her and Ava to stand next to each other in the middle and one of them leaving with their first pro wins.

That’s not to say they are both unbeatable. Heather’s done a number of shows already this year and some women aren’t able to be at their best every show. Will it effect Heather? Ava has been away from the stage since March which could mean she’s fresh or a little rusty.

Could someone beat Heather and Ava? Absolutely although I wouldn’t bet on it. So who gets in the third spot if Ava and Heather do go one and two? Julie Ann Kulla when on her game is good but if she comes in too small she’ll be not only on the outside of the top three but out of the top five. She could be in the mix but we’ll have to see what package she brings. Alea Suarez has been close to a top three finish since switching from bikini. She could be there. I really like Elvimar Sanchez’s look but she doesn’t come in tight enough to be in the mix. Michell Bates has a nice look and could be a top five contender. Charmayne Jackson has been knocking at the door of the top spots but will have her work cut out for her here.

Three rookies could shake things up in their pro debuts. Jamie DeBernard turned pro at the NPC USAs and Kavvy Sonhos and Rebecca Bowers won their class and turned pro at this year’s NPC Team Universe.

Cast your vote for who you think will win.

{democracy:204}
Filed Under: IFBB, Polls

Weekend Wisdom with Gina Aliotti

August 12, 2011 by

Gina Aliotti has a tip for you as we head into the weekend. Check out what she has to say in this installment of G’s Tip of the Week.

 

Weekend Wisdom with Gina Aliotti
Headed out to a restaurant this weekend? Before you head out the door, it is always smart to check out the restaurant’s website and view their menu and nutritional information. It is important to have an idea of what it is you will be ordering so when you arrive, starving, you don’t find yourself choosing something completely off your nutritional plan. Not only is proper planning important, to stay on track, but you would be shocked to find out that the salad you thought was a “healthy choice” was actually higher in calories than the pasta dish you wanted but decided against! Before you head out to eat, be sure to check the menu and save yourself on calories and confusion! Have a great weekend!

Thank you, as always!! Enjoy your weekend!!

Gina Aliotti
Nutrition, Fitness & Lifestyle Consultant
www.ginaaliotti.com
F www.facebook.com/GinaAliotti
T www.twitter.com/GinaAliotti

Filed Under: Competitor's Corner

Hardbody Interview: Sonia Gonzales Bring’n it Back

August 12, 2011 by

The reigning Bikini Olympia champ, Sonia Gonzales is taking the stage this weekend at the Europa Supershow in Dallas. She was a little off her game at the 2011 Bikini International but she went back to the drawing board and is back. Will we see a new and improved Sonia? I saw a sneak preview at the NPC USAs when she was poolside doing a photo shoot and I can honestly say I’ve never seen her look better.  I caught up with the Bikini champ for a quick interview, read what she had to say.

Where ya living these days?
Hang’n in wine country… Temecula CA

You’re there just hanging out looking purdy or you still doing nails?
I’m still working in the salon p/t,, I love the beauty biz!!!

You’re the reigning Bikini Olympia champ – why compete in the Europa Supershow?
I wanna do a lil warm up.

Some peeps have criticized you saying you had no booty. I saw you doing a photo shoot with JM Manion in Vegas and looks like you rounded your rump. What workouts have you been doing to build your butt?
Ha, the booty? Funny you ask !!! All I’m going to reveal or say is that I had a very productive off-season and the booty got some TLC!!!

Have you changed your nutrition at all since the Arnold?
Yes I’ve a few cheat meals, I enjoyed my self!!! Good food and good times with friends and family.

Some thought you were a little off at the Bikini International, do you feel this show you are better than in Columbus?
Most definitely I work with Kim Oddo who is my nutritionist and trainer. We went back to the drawing board and made a few tweaks, and we are very happy with my progress.

What gives you the edge over your competition this weekend?
My determination, focus and love of the sport !!! Swagger baby!!!

One of the secrets in your and Adela’s arsenal is the waist cincher. I heard some of your competition started using this, will this help them beat you?
HAhaha Bring it!!! Their Cincher is tight, but mine is tighter!!!

When you hear your fellow competitors talk smack does it distract or motivate you?
Honestly I just last laugh. All that means to me is they are insecure. A little class goes a long way!!!

You’ve trained with Kim Oddo for several years, what’s the biggest benefit of having a trainer like Kimbo in your corner?
Kimbo… anybody who knows would say this trainer/nutritionist has a sixth sense about him. He definitely knows his stuff. He’s a perfectionist and he takes the guessing game out of it. He treats every competitor the same and his attitude is to WIN!!! He’s amazing!!! I’m forever loyal!!

Will you be 100% for this show or are you saving your best for the Olympia?
100% every show!!!

What will you be eating backstage before going on for prejudging?
I won’t know till game day !!!

New suit or no?
Nope, why change what works!!

Who makes your suits?
Chynna dolls, CJ swimwear and illusions by Aggie.

How long will we see Sonia Gonzales competing in Bikini?
I haven’t ever put a time limit on it.

How much cardio are you doing a day?
Maybe 20 mins

What song is cranked up in your headphones?
Some stuff by Adele, Rhianna, Eminen, a lil of everything

Anyone you wanna give a shout out to?
Just want to thank you to my family, friends, FMG, Kim Oddo, GNC and God !!! Thank you for all the love support.

Thanks Sonia and good luck.

Follow us on twitter at twitter.com/hardbodynews and use #EUROPATX for the hash tag.

Filed Under: IFBB, Interviews

Hardbody Europa Supershow Interview: Ava Cowan “Bring Value to Your Name”

August 10, 2011 by

The 2011 Europa Supershow has one of the largest figure lineups of the year. The competition on stage will be hotter than it is outside in the Texas heat and one of the competitors heating things up will be Ava Cowan. Ava has finished third in her last two shows. She leaped into top contender status at this year’s Figure International finish, placing behind Nicole Wilkins and Erin Stern. Pretty solid placing, right? Damn right. She went on to compete in the IFBB St. Louis Pro where she again finished third. Ava’s highest placing came in last year’s Ft. Lauderdale Cup where she was the runner-up. Might we see Ava win her first IFBB pro show this weekend?

 

I caught up with Ava as she heads into the Dallas Europa Supershow. She shares insight on running a business and how she’s used competing to help her build her brand. Check it out.

Currently live in: Delray Beach, Florida

How’s the supplement store going? Great!  We are doing very well, paying the bills and rent plus have a great new manager, Jimmy Anzardo. Who is great with running the store and with our customers!  So no complaints here.

What’s the biggest challenge of running a business? Finding people who you can trust with the keys to your business.  Mark and I travel a lot so we need to make sure we get great people to work with us.  Thankfully, Jimmy came to us and has been a great fit.  Also, knowing how and what products to put on the shelves is always something you can only learn with experience.  It also helps to find companies that are willing to help us promote their products so we can sell it in our store and create more awareness.

Ava Cowan is a name many women have come to know in the fitness industry. Can you look back and pinpoint a moment that was your “big break”?  There have been several high points that I feel have put my name “out there” so to speak.  But the biggest break would have to be my signing with Gaspari Nutrition in 2009.  They put me on the map on a whole other level with advertising Internationally.

What professional goals do you have that you’ve yet to achieve? A publishing contract.  I am an excellent writer and feel I could bring an already existing fan base to a magazine through regular articles and videos discussing nutrition, training and lifestyle concepts and techniques.

Has competing in the NPC/IFBB helped your business off the stage?  Yes, immensely. By being an IFBB figure athlete, I am able to compete against the top athletes in the world.  If you place at a top show, you are then considered the best “worldwide”. No other organization can give an athlete that much prestige.  By having the ability to be a top-ranking athlete, you are then able to market yourself in a ways that only the top athletes in the world can.  Worldwide recognition translates into more marketability as a competitor.  It had been my experience that the only way to get a great athlete contract is to be with the NPC and IFBB.

You have quite the fan base growing on Facebook and twitter. Do you recommend other women use social media to help their personal brand?  If you do not have an Internet presence you do not exist as a brand.  The power of creating a name is imperative to any thriving company.  That includes branding yourself.  You must bring value and an audience to your name.  The way to do that is through creating and maintaining an audience online.

How’s your training been since we last saw you on stage?  I feel good about my efforts regarding a total transformation with my physique.  With the help of Kim Oddo, we have come up with a look that is so much different than last year.  I have backed off from the massive amounts of weight training, and have just let my natural shape come back.  My body is curvier and I have a much more streamline/ feminine look than I previously did.

Biggest challenge prepping for this show:  I always struggle with being hungry.  I have been able to help my hunger by adding in more vegetables to fill me up.  I eat a ton of cucumbers with vinegar.

10 years from now what will Ava Cowan be doing? Living in a beautiful home on the ocean with a family of my own.

Favorite Gaspari protein flavor?  Milk Chocolate Myofusion.

After the Europa Dallas will you be doing Arizona or nothing until the Olympia? No, I will be doing the Olympia after Dallas.

Anyone you’d like to thank? God for putting this dream in my heart and allowing me to full-fill it.  Gaspari Nutrition for supporting my career as an athlete.   I could only be traveling and living my dream because of Rich and Liz Gaspari and Joe Volgey.  I would like to thank the IFBB for giving me the ability and platform to compete worldwide.  I would like to thank Kim Oddo for revamping my look.  And for having the eyes I need to give me what I need to be successful in this sport.  I would like to thank my fiance Mark Alvisi for working so hard on building our future day in and day out, my Dad, and my friends Jessica and Suzana.  Thank you for loving me.  A special thanks to my fans who continue to support me everyday and throughout my career.  No matter where I place.  And thank you Isaac for this interview.
Follow Ava on twitter.com @avaCowan and become a fan on her facebook page. You can see competition photos of Ava throughout the years on bodybuilding.com and see how she’s transformed her physique into the winning form its in today.

 

Filed Under: IFBB, Interviews

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