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2013 Arnold Brasil Fitness Results

April 28, 2013 by

The inaugural Arnold Classic Brasil took place in Rio de Janeiro over the weekend and Ryall Graber-Vasani was crowned the Fitness champ for the first time in her pro career. Regiane DaSilva finished in second and Nicole Duncan in third.

2013 Arnold Brasil Fitness Results
1. Ryall Graber-Vasani
2. Regiane DaSilva
3. Nicole Duncan
4. Trish Warren
5. Fiona Harris
6. Allison Ethier
7. Diana Monteiro
8. Kizzy Vaines
9. Natalie Planes
10. Amanda Hatfield

Check back for out complete report and review from Brasil.

Men’s Bodybuilding results…

2013 Arnold Classic Brasil
1. Brandon Curry
2. Toney Freeman
3. Johnnie Jackson
4. Edward Nunn
5. Fred Smalls
6. Robert Piotrkowicz
7. Michael Kefalianos
8. Hidetada Yamagishi
9. Ronny Rockel
10. Baito Abbaspour
11. Mohamed Bannout
12. Fernando Noronha Almeida
13. Francisco Bautista

Filed Under: Arnold Classic, Contest Results

2013 Arnold Classic Brasil – Pro Fitness Preview

April 27, 2013 by

The Arnold Classic heads Rio de Janeiro, Brazil this weekend for its inaugural event in South America. The wildly popular Arnold Sports Festival is rooted in Columbus, Ohio where Jim Lormier and Arnold Schwarzenegger became partners on the event over a handshake. The event is part of a much larger project called “Brazilian Sports”. The weekend will feature a three-day expo with all the latest supplement companies, workout apparel, gym equipment and more.

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The IFBB Fitness pros will take the stage on Saturday evening for prejudging and the finals will be held shortly afterwards. This is a rare schedule as the prejudging is often the night before or earlier in the morning. The women will share the stage with the IFBB Pro Bodybuilders.

The biggest story from Rio was that the reigning Fitness International Champion, Tanji Johnson would not be competing this weekend. Head Judge, Lee Thompson shared at the athlete’s meeting that Tanji had VISA issues and was unable to make the trip. This makes the competition very interesting.

2013 Arnold Brasil – IFBB Pro Fitness
1. Regiane Da Silva – Regiane has a high flying, fast-paced routine and her physique continues to improve with each show. Look for her to be a top contender for the title.

2. Nicole Duncan – We know what Nicole is capable of but lately she’s come up just a bit short. If Nicole brings a conditioned physique and her high energy routine that features incredible gymnastics and dance moves she’s a contender. Loads of potential in Ms. Duncan.

3. Allison Ethier – Allison has steadily improved her physique and her routine. If she brings a high paced routine with solid strength moves she could be in the hunt.

4. Ryall Graber Vasani – Ryall has moved up in the ranks and if she bring a similar look that she showcased in prior shows this year, she’ll be in the top spots. She has great strength skills and should be in the top callout in the physique round.

5. Fiona Harris – Fiona has the looks, the physique and now it’s a matter of putting it all together. The judges don’t often reward her routines as good as some feel they are. If she can wow the judges a bit more with her routine, she’ll be in the mix.

6. Amanda Hatfield – Amanda continues to chip away at the pro ranks. She has solid gynmastics and will look to move up in the placings. She’ll have her work cut out for her in this line-up.

7. Diana Monteiro – Diana is one of the more muscular and taller competitors in this group. She has the how stage advantage and is the lone Brazilian in the group. Diana has been up and down in her placings so it will be interesting to see how she fares here.

8. Natalie Planes – Natalie is the darkhorse in this line-up. She’s caught veterans on their heels and is a force to be reckoned with. She made her IFBB pro debut last year and left the winner. Since she’s already qualified for the Olympia, look for her to be relaxed and wow the crowd with her routine.

9. Kizzy Vaines will rock the blonde hair this time around and if she can nail her routine she’ll be in the top 5. If it’s too slow and she’s not at her best she’ll be on the outside looking in.

10. Trish Warren – Trish returned to the stage after having her first child. She more than held her own in the return when she competed last month at the Fitness International in Columbus, Ohio. Look for her to be in the top spots on Saturday night.

Check back for more information on the Arnold Brasil all weekend long.

Filed Under: Arnold Classic, Show Previews

Nathalia Melo’s 8 Essential Tips for Traveling to Rio de Janeiro

April 23, 2013 by

Our resident Hardbody Brazilian, Bikini Olympia Champ and fitness cover model, Nathalia Melo shares some insight on what to expect when heading to Rio de Janeiro. She hits on what to eat, what not to drink, what to expect when tipping and more. We’re stoked that Nat will be there along with us. It will make communicating in Portuguese much easier. HA!

natbrazil

Hello Hardbodies,

I am all packed and ready to head to Rio de Janeiro for the 2013 Arnold Classic Brasil! Are you?? Woot woot!

Here are 8 Essential Tips for the ones heading to Rio this weekend:
1. Do NOT drink the tap water! I am not sure what the results from it would be, but I am sure you don’t want to risk your weekend with…aham… some tummy problems!
2. The safest and best way to get around is by Taxi or Subway (It doesn’t go everywhere).
3. To exchange money you will need your passport.
4. Leave your nice jewelry at home, better safe than sorry.
5. Tipping in Brazil is 10% and it is normally included in the check, but you can always give a little extra if you had good service – the extra can’t be on the card, it has to be cash.
6. Restaurants there are normally family style, which means that one dish will feed a couple people. Make sure you ask your server how big the dish is.
7. You can find wifi connection in many places there
8. Make sure you check out a Brazilian Steak House, which is an all you can eat restaurant where you can eat Brazilian bbq till you drop.

Hope these tips were helpful!

Safe travel guys and see ya in Rio!!

Nathalia Melo

Filed Under: News & Features

Confessions Of An Insecure Competitor

April 23, 2013 by

Jessica Paxson has been on a number of magazine covers and has consistently been a top IFBB Pro. Many would assume a beautiful woman like Jessica is always confident and never experiences self-doubt. She opens up to share her own insecurities and shares a friendly reminder to not only competitors but all women.

jessica-paxson

Confessions Of An Insecure Competitor
By Jessica Paxson

I was recently asked by a client, “How do you keep from comparing yourself to other competitors backstage at a show/how do you keep yourself calm before going on stage?”

The first part of the question reminded me of being back stage at the 2005 Jr Nationals. I remember looking around at all of the amazing competitors with tears welling up in my eyes, I felt I didn’t measure up at all! I was wondering what I had gotten myself into. How did I think I could step on stage with these amazing competitors?! The negative self talk kept coming.

I called my coach (Mike Davies) very upset. He said to me “Jessie, nobody ever won a show sitting backstage”. Isn’t that the truth?! I got myself together, and I went on to win my class and my pro card at that show! I don’t say that to sound arrogant, but only to illustrate that we can be our own worst enemy at times, and get worked up over nothing!

I have never been the most muscular, lean/hard competitor. I have to confess… I would struggle with insecurities that people would look at me off the stage and say “how is she even a pro?”. I would look at other competitors or even women in the gym and covet their more muscular arms. I would get so down on myself! As a competitor and as women we need to stop comparing ourselves to others! God has blessed us each with qualities both physically and otherwise that make us beautiful and unique in our own ways! Know that and own that! It has taken me YEARS to come to this realization and I have such a peace about it! I just wish I could have taught my younger self this lesson!

Take the time backstage at a show to pray and thank Him for the blessing of health and being able to compete, visualize yourself calmly presenting your hard work on that stage with confidence! Take a deep breath and take your time presenting your physique that you have worked so hard on and ENJOY yourself! Your time on stage will be over in the blink of an eye! Stay present and in the moment. Take in the crowd, the judges, the feeling of being on that stage, smile (and mean it! 🙂 ).

Know that you are fearfully and wonderfully made! So, shine! Whether it be on stage or in life in general!

Stay fit and God bless!
Jess

Follow Jess on Twitter @Jessfit and like her facebook page.

Filed Under: Girl Talk

Apex-Brasil and Abrese Join Forces to Leverage Brazilian Sports

April 23, 2013 by

The inaugural Arnold Classic Brasil will take place this weekend in Rio de Janeiro. In an effort to promote the Brazil’s sports sector, Apex-Brasil and Abrese have partnered together and created a project coined “Brazilian Sports”. The project intends to increase exports of the Brazilian sports sector and promote the international market of Brazilian products as they relate to sports.

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We’re honored to be part of the initial efforts and will be sharing information from Brasil this weekend.

News Release
APEX-BRASIL and ABRESE JOIN FORCES TO LEVERAGE THE ECONOMY OF THE SPORTS SECTOR
Apex-Brasil (Brazilian Trade and Investment Promotion Agency) and ABRESE (Brazilian Association of Sport Goods and Services) created an Export Project, called “Brazilian Sports”, that had an initial investment of about R$ 500,000. The investments may increase after October of this year.

The project will have it’s first activity at the Expo “Arnold Classic Brasil 2013” that will be held on April 26th to 28th at the Sul América Convention Center, Rio de Janeiro.
The objective of the Project is to increase the exports of the Brazilian sports sector and promote in the international market the Brazilian products and services related to sports activities.

According to ABRESE the sports sector currently generates nearly R$65 billion a year, equivalent to 1.6% of Brazilian GDP. In the last six years the segment has grown much more than the national economy. While the country’s GDP has maintained an average of annual growth between 2007 and 2011 of 4.2%, the sports market reached a 7.1% growth.

Compared to the same period mentioned above, it was observed that the participation of the sport sector on the GDP of some countries was, for example, in England of 1.8%, U.S. 2.1%, Australia 2.3% and New Zealand 2, 8%. The expectation for 2016 is that the national GDP can grow 1.9%, according to ABRESE.

The Brazilian Sports Project invited international journalists, to come to the event, so they can get to know the Brazilian companies and their products. The confirmed guests belong to major industry publications. They are: Hardbody News, NPC News, Muscle & Fitness, Flex Magazine, Muscular Development, Muscle Mag International.

The next step will bring around 10 buyers from different countries to the Rio Sports Show, that will happen from June 27th to 29th, this year..

For more information visit: www.arnoldclassicbrasil.com.br

Filed Under: Arnold Classic, News & Features

Results: 2013 IFBB Pro Women’s Bikini Europa Show of Champions

April 22, 2013 by

Another IFBB Pro Bikini competition is in the record books and things went pretty much as expected. Rising star in the division, Courtney King took home her first win in just her second pro show. The Chicago native, now residing and going to school in Daytona Beach, was the unanimous choice on the judging panel.

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Shooting up into second place was Ohio’s Ashley Kaltwasser. Ashley has an athletic physique and is beginning to find her groove in just her second pro show. She debuted at the 2013 Arnold – Bikini International, a show she won as an amateur in 2012.

Rounding out the top spots were Aly Veneno and Nicole Witbeck. Aly finished third and Nicole moved up to fourth in her third pro show. Nicole has steadily climbed up in each show after turning pro in 2012 by placing second in her class at the NPC USAs. Maria Annunziata finished the highest in her pro career in fifth.

See all the photos from the show here.

2013 Europa Show of Champions Bikini Results
1. Courtney King
2. Ashley Kaltwasser
3. Aly Veneno
4. Nicole Witbeck
5. Maria Annunziata
6. Francesca Yumul
7. Brittany Young
8. Maura Bouchard
9. Jennifer Dawn
10. Lacey DeLuca
11. Ashley Wade
12. Jessica Renee
13. Nathalie Mur
14. Danielle Carr
15. Sabrina Nicole
16. Noemi Olah

Filed Under: Contest Results

2013 IFBB Pro Women’s Physique – Europa Show of Champions Results

April 22, 2013 by

One of the biggest IFBB Pro Women’s Physique shows took place over the weekend in Orlando, Florida. The second show in as many weeks netted the same result at the top. Patricia Mello took top honors at the 2013 Europa Show of Champions and has started to position herself as the standard for the division.

women-physique-orlando

Patricia is one of the taller competitors on stage and has long limbs that carry quite a bit of muscle. Mikaila Soto found herself in the runner-up position and what many felt was her best look to date. Making not only her IFBB Pro debut but also her debut in the division, Amanda Dunbar finished third. Amanda was the 2005 NPC Overall Women’s Bodybuilding champion and chose to sit out pro competition until now. The downsize and switch to the new division appears to be a wise move.

See all the competition photos here.

2013 IFBB Pro Women’s Physique – Europa Show of Champions Results
1. Patricia Mello
2. Mikaila Soto
3. Amanda Dunbar
4. Frances Mendez
5. Jillian Reville
6. Jennifer Robinson
7. Kristina Curci
8. Melissa DiBernardo
9. Asha Hadley
10. Janet Koehler
11. Alecia Marie Rankovic
12. Leonie Rose
13. Jill Rudison
14. Rachel Baker
15. Jill Dearmin
16. Amanda Brawn Harris
16. Tammy Patnode
16. Tiani Norman
16. Anne Marie Lasserre
16. Cinzia Massoro
16. Danielle Reardon
16. Audrey Presson
16. Candrea Judd-Adams
16. Danielle Soucek
16. Evangeline Belton
16. Stacy Simons McDowell

Filed Under: Contest Results

Prejudging Report – 2013 Europa Show of Champions Bikini

April 20, 2013 by

The 2013 IFBB Europa Show of Champions Pro Bikini prejudging took place on Friday afternoon in Orlando, Florida. The competition didn’t have any “big names” so to speak which meant the door was wide open for someone to step up and qualify for the Olympia. The prejudging went quick and a reminder to all competitors you only get a couple minutes to make an impression on the judges.

bikini-orlando

HARDBODY PREJUDGING 411:
These are just opinions and not indicative of the final placings, which will be held on Saturday at 3pm.

Maria Annunziata – She’s improving her stage presence. Not sure if the suit color was the best choice with her tan. Could have used different suit or different color tan. She was in the first call-out and will likely be top five but didn’t see it that way. She’s a little too soft from behind and needs to come in tighter in the legs and booty to be in my top five.

Maura Bouchard – Maura competed in just her second show and if she is patient she can steadily improve. She’s one of the smaller women on stage and needs more muscle and fullness to her. She seemed to be over-thinking her posing instead of just rolling with it. It doesn’t look like she’ll be top five this time around.

Danielle Carr – One of the taller competitors and her challenge will be not looking to straight up and down in her posing. She wasn’t super confident in her posing and if she can take the stage a bit more poised and polish her presentation she could move up.

Jennifer Dawn – One of Jennifer’s better looks in recent contests but didn’t get much love with the comparisons. I would have put her higher than where she’ll finish and thought it was one of her better presentations to date. She has larger boobs which can be distracting in some people’s opinion but can’t see that being the cause for her not placing higher. She’ll be top ten but wouldn’t argue if she had been top five.

Lacey DeLuca – Lacey looked like she always does… A nice look in the upper body but soft and not conditioned in the lower half. It’s likely a genetic battle she’ll always face with a bigger booty. She presents herself well in the individual round but needs to bring the legs and booty down to be a contender. She won’t be top five this time around.

Ashley Kaltwasser – Ashley will likely finish second and has a physique I’ve always liked. She’s one of the more athletic looking competitors and this is just her second pro show. As she progresses she could be a top pro. I’d like to see a little different eye make-up and a better tan. Her tanning color was a bit off and the eye make-up a bit too much. She’ll need to polish up her posing but watch for her to be in the top spots as she refines the little details.

Courtney King – Courtney will be king err queen of this stage. She improved her posing from her pro debut and looked spot on. She has long legs and looks much taller on stage then she really is. She’s definitely one of the rising stars in the division and she’ll leave your winner, at least that’s how I see it. I’d like to see her continue to put on a little size in her upper body but she has time on her side.

Nathalie Mur – Nathalie Mur looked much better than her Daytona showing a couple weeks ago. I would place her higher than she’ll finish and with Nathalie it’s more about her presentation than physique that needs polished. If she present with a bit more confidence she’d get a better look.

Sabrina Nicole – Sabrina will be at the bottom of the pack this time around. She has more muscle than most in this line-up and needs to be a bit sharper to be a contender. Sabrina has the potential to do well she just needs to dial in her conditioning to get in the top spots.

Noemi Olah – Noemi was back on stage in the USA but won’t finish in the top spots. She’s a beautiful women and if the judging was based on facial looks she’d be a winner in any show. It’s more than just a pretty face and she won’t be in the mix this time. Noemi’s tan was too light and she was too soft for this line-up. Still one of my favorite competitors when she’s tighter and the details are on point.

Jessica Renee – Jessica has lots of potential and just needs little tweaks to improve. I’d like to see her come in with big pageant style curly hair (ie Jennifer Andrews style) and a different colored suit. Her tan seemed a bit splotchy. She won’t be top five but could in future shows with some minor adjustments.

Aly Veneno – Aly will likely be your third place finisher. She was much more relaxed and poised than the Daytona show. She had make-up and a tan that matched and it’s those details that can help make or break where you finish. I’d like to see her work on the timing of her presentation. She tends to over pose and stage on stage longer than needed. She could have been a little tighter in the glutes but overall not a bad showing.

Ashley Wade – I like Ashley’s look and the curly hair. Ashley will be in the middle of the pack here and would have argued if she finished higher. She’s one competitor that for some reason gets lost in the mix.

Nicole Witbeck – Nicole was one competitor I thought should have been top five in Daytona and while she didn’t finish in the top spots there she should here. Look for her to be in the fourth of fifth spot. She’s one of the few blondes in the division and has a nice, balanced physique. Only critique here would be to bring a different look with her hair. She could pull off the big pageant curls instead of the straight hair. Silly, to talk about hair in a physique competition, right? I know.

Brittany Young – Brittany will be in the top 10 and had one of her best looks to date. She is another tall competitor who towers over some of the others. This was her best showing as a pro and should be happy with what she presented.

Francesca Yumul – Francesca kinda flew under the radar heading into this show but turned some heads on stage. This is just her second pro show, the muscle contest being her first. She’ll be in the top ten and has a look that catches your attention. She’ll move up with a little more stage time and improve presentation.

I see it going…
1. Courtney King
2. Ashley Kaltwasser
3. Aly Vaneno

The winner will leave with an Olympia qualification and the 2-4 finishers will get points in the Olympia Point Series. We’ll find out the results Saturday afternoon. There was also Women’s Physique, Men’s physique and Men’s 212 Bodybuilding at this show. The expo held in conjunction with the pro show is huge with many events, including a NPC show. If interested in purchasing NPC photos you can do so here and see more photos from the event on bodybuilding.com.

Filed Under: News & Features, Show Previews

One Hardbody To Watch – Nicole Witbeck

April 18, 2013 by

Nicole Witbeck may not be a name you’re familiar with now but you will. She’s one of the few blonde bikini competitors in the IFBB Pro League and she could stop traffic with a flip of her hair. She turned pro relatively quick, having only competed in two regional shows before stepping on stage at the 2012 NPC USAs where she achieved pro status. This weekend she’ll be competing in her third pro show and despite not making the top five at the Battle on The Beach, she’s one to watch this weekend.

nicole-witbeck
Nicole shares a little tough love on eating and why she loves butter. This former track athlete shares a bit more about herself and why she’s one hardbody to watch!

Name: Nicole Witbeck

Born in: Portland Oregon

Currently Live in: San Diego California

Did you play any sports growing up? Dance (if you consider it a sport) and I ran varsity hurdles in high school.

110 hurdles or 300/400m? 100 high

Siblings? One brother

Youngest or oldest? Oldest, but some think he’s older just due to his sheer size.

What did you want to be when you grew up? I wanted to be a secret agent, then I grew up and realized they don’t exist in the way I thought they did.

Like the cartoon character MAD… SPY VS SPY? Never heard of it, I’ve always been a Star Wars junkie, so more sci-fi type stuff. Actually, dearth vader is currently my background on my iPhone 🙂

Other than hitting the weight room what do you with you day? I spend a lot of time outdoors, whether its the beach, hiking, and playing golf.

Have you always worked out? I’ve always been active- not necessarily In a gym. During college I was so focused on my accounting degree I rarely saw anything but the inside of a library.

Did you get an accounting degree and put it to use? I did work in accounting for about a year and I am starting to get back into it! I took some time off to really put my all into this sport.

Any accounting tips for your fellow fitness peeps? lol financial tip- go back and look at how much you used to spend on bars and eating out- then each month put that money away into a savings account. Use that savings account to help fund your competition career.

How did you get into competing? I went to one of my brother physique competitions and though hey I can do this! So I called his coach and got started that day. I did the emerald cup three weeks after that in Bellevue Washington.nicole

You did only a handful of shows before turning pro right? Yes, I did two regional shows and got my pro card in Las Vegas last year!

See Nicole’s competition photos here!

What’s the biggest difference competing in NPC to the Pros? Just the attention that you receive- people look up to you as a role model or inspiration and that’s an amazing feeling knowing you are encouraging others to obtain a healthy lifestyle.

What’s something you wish people would have warned you about and learned the hard way? That I would probably never eat butter again. My favorite food is just straight up butter – and that’s obviously not on our diets.

Wait butter? So you would take a stick and just chew on it like a candy bar? lol yes, I mean I didn’t do that often, but the saying “want some bread with your butter” that was coined after me. My parents said growing up they would find me sneaking into the fridge late at night eating out of the butter tub.

Best thing about competing? Everything! I love the lifestyle and the way I feel. Being on stage and the competitions are just a fun way to show off all that you have worked so hard to achieve.

What’s it like being married to a Navy Seal? I am grateful to all that serve in our armed forces, so I’m very proud to be married to someone who puts his life on the line for our freedom. He constantly pushes me to be better and to never give up.

Like to work out solo or train with someone? When I’m lifting I prefer to train alone just because music really fuels the intensity of my workout. However, Cardio is more fun when I have a partner to laugh with.

What’s on your music play list currently? iHeart Radio- linkin park station

Favorite sport to watch? Football- and mainly because San Diego is an awesome place for hanging out and watching games.

Yes, San Diego is a nice warm place to watch the Charges lose to the Broncos. Are you a chargers fan or Seahawks? Chargers, I was never really a Seahawks fan so I adopted the chargers when I moved to San Diego, like every other person who lives there.

Favorite sport to play? Golf when I’m playing well. I also spent every weekend skiing back when I lived in Oregon.

How’s your golf game? Well… I’m not a scratch golfer by any means. But I can get ahold of a few every once in awhile.

Do blondes have more fun? I think that I have a lot of fun being a blonde!!! Especially in this sport, there are so few of us I have the ability to bring my own look.

What’s your favorite healthy food to make? Dried fruit- I can’t get enough dried pineapple.

Any tips for making fish taste better? I use a chipotle or spicy seasoning to cover up the taste, but when I don’t use seasoning my tip would be to suck it up- I don’t see food as pleasure just fuel to get me through the day.

Rather cook or do laundry? Well my husband would say do laundry because he thinks I’m a clean freak, but I would prefer to cook or bake any day!

Biggest pet peeve? When guys lift up their shirts and stare at their abs in the mirror at the gym. Like really???

Bad Habit.. Coffee, I don’t even want to know how much I spend on Starbucks in a given month.

Social media where people can find you? Twitter: @IFBBNicoleMarie Facebook: Nicole Marie Witbeck- IFBB pro

Where else will you be competing this year? I’m looking at Pittsburg, and from there will just see where things take me!!

nicole-hardbody

 

Filed Under: Interviews, News & Features

Dove Real Beauty Sketches – You’re More Beautiful Than You Think

April 16, 2013 by

Gil Zamora is a forensic composite artist, trained at the FBI academy in 1993. Gil worked at the San Jose police department from 1995 until 2011 as their police artist. He works off a person’s memory and asks several questions to composite his sketches instead of reference material. It’s important to note as it influences this experiment, beautifully documented.

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Gil was hired by Dove to interview and draw seven different women, two sketches each.The first sketch is drawn from the woman’s description of herself. Gil never sees the women before he draws them. The second sketch is based off from a stranger’s description of the same woman. The sketches are incredibly different and in one woman’s words, “the stranger’s was a little more gentle.” The women are shown the sketches side by side and the women realize how hard on they are on themselves. The take away, at least in my opinion, is that women spend too much time trying to fix things they don’t like and they are too hard on themselves. The spots may be for Dove but you’d barely know it by the way they were produced and presented.

Bravo to Dove and this Real Beauty campaign. The short version has been seen over 1.2 million times in two days.

Youtube:

Women are their own worst beauty critics. Only 4% of women around the world consider themselves beautiful. At Dove, we are committed to creating a world where beauty is a source of confidence, not anxiety. So, we decided to conduct a compelling social experiment that explores how women view their own beauty in contrast to what others see.

Watch the whole experience at: http://dove.com/realbeautysketches
Join the conversation at: #wearebeautiful

And don’t forget: YOU are more beautiful than you think!

Lead image via Dove Youtube.

Filed Under: Ad Watch

20 Questions with Dianna Dahlgren Via Live Twitter Chat

April 16, 2013 by

Dianna Dahlgren took questions from the twittersphere and shared what her favorite headphone are to tips on getting published in fitness magazines. Find out what Dianna would be doing if she wasn’t modeling or working as Miss Supercross and what’s she up to next. Thanks to everyone who asked questions and the funniest one came last, scroll down for a good laugh. You can keep up with Dianna on twitter at @diannaDahlgren and on her website, www.diannadahlgren.com.

dahlgren-twitter-questions


Dianna Dahlgren’s LIVE Twitter Chat

1Q. How did you get started in #modeling? #ddchat
1A. I was scouted by a lady at the mall when I was 13! #ddchat

2Q. So that really happens… scouting at a mall turns to real modeling work? #ddchat
2A. Yes as long as they are legitimate! Just do your background check, my mom did! #ddchat

3Q. What are your goals for the rest of 2013? #ddchat
3A. I’m working on a webisode series over the summer in Venice Beach, my 2014 calendar and a fitness wear line #ddchat

4Q. Do you have any #workout tips for building a better booty? #ddchat
4A. Glute Pushbacks, multiple stances when squatting, Reverse Lunges and the good ole Stair Master #ddchat

5Q. How long should someone do cardio each session? Every day and what type? #ddchat
5A. For healthy balance around 30-45 minutes, running is the best workout, I also enjoy the precor and stairs #ddchat

6Q. What was the key ingredient to motivate you to succeed this early in life? #ddchat
6A. I got sent to boarding school when I was 15, when I went home I wanted money so I started working, and never stopped.

7Q. Will you be Miss #Supercross in 2014? How did you get selected & when?
7A. I think so, 4 years if so and I got lucky lol #ddchat

8Q. What’s the best way to become a published #fitness #model after you have the body for it? #ddchat
8A. Working with photographers who have been published more than a few times and have connections #ddchat

9Q. Do you help others with personal training & if so are you accepting any new clients? #ddchat
9A. YES I do, I love it! Email me dianna@diannadahlgren.com for more info. #ddchat

10Q. If you weren’t modeling & being Miss #supercross what would you be doing? #ddchat
10A. I’d be working on my nursing degree or would already be a nurse #ddchat

11Q. What’s the key to sticking to a good diet besides good nutrition? #ddchat
11A. Just eat healthy and clean. Fruits variety of veggies and meats, eat because you are physically hungry. #ddchat

12Q. You’re spending more time in front of the live camera; do you want to do more of that & do you like it? #ddchat
12A. Yes I love it and I’m doing more whenever I can! #ddchat

13Q. Do you have a favorite photo-shoot that you’ve done & a favorite cover you’ve been on? #ddchat
13A. Favorite cover is my FitnessRx cover and my favorite shoots have been with Per Bernal and Isaac Hinds #ddchat

14Q. Did you play sports when you were younger and have you always had a bikini body? #ddchat

15Q. Now that you’re not competing any more do you find it hard to stay motivated to be in shape? #ddchat
15A. Sometimes, but I love working out so I still go everyday and do the best I can everyday #ddchat

16Q. Do you recommend any supplements & how do you eat healthy traveling as much as you do? #ddchat
16A. @QuestNutrition bars are the best and if I don’t have food, I eat a lot of salads with chicken, dressing on side! #ddchat

17Q. Do you do your own hair and make-up for Miss #Supercross & #photoshoots? If yes what’s your fav brand of MU? #ddchat
17A. Yes I do 🙂 MAC cosmetics is what I use the most! #ddchat

18Q. What music do you listen to when you workout & what kind of headphones are best? #ddchat
18A. I listen to FFDP on Pandora Radio, and I love @skullcandy ear buds with memory foam ear pieces so they stay in #ddchat

19Q. What’s your favorite brand of clothes / shoes to workout in? #ddchat
19A. I love some lululemon or Nike running pants, anything fitted and stretchy! #ddchat

LMAO! So silly have to end on this one. 20Q. @diannadahlgren who would win in a fight, a grilled cheese sandwich or a taco? #ddchat
20A. LMAO grilled cheese with some tomato soup!!! #BOMB #ddchat

See all of our Twitter chats here.

 

Filed Under: Twitter Chats

Sunday Night Faith No More – Faith Hill Tweets Departure

April 16, 2013 by

When the National Football League returns the NBC broadcast will have at least one change. The Country singer shared via twitter that she would be stepping away from the Sunday Night Football opening. She’s sang “Waiting All Day for Sunday Night” as part of the NBC telecast.

sunday-night-football


She followed it up with another tweet.


Who should be Faith Hill’s replacement? The logical choice and leading lady on the web seems to be Carrie Underwood. She fits with the brand, has the voice and from a marketing stand point, she’s “safe”. Will the NBC execs go with Carrie or opt for someone else like Katty Perry, Beyonce, Pink! or stray from a female singer all-together? No replacement has been named yet.

Who would you like to see take Faith’s place?

Filed Under: Polls

Olympia Champ Nathalia Melo’s 8 Brazilian Basics

April 16, 2013 by

The first-ever Arnold Classic Brazil is just around the corner. Since we’ve never been to Brazil we thought who better to help guide us than the top Bikini Pro in the biz, Brazilian Nathalia Melo. Nathalia has been a long-time friend of Hardbody and when we asked her for input she graciously accepted. This is the first of our Arnold Brazil series with Nathalia. She kicks things off with some basics and as always she describes it as only Nathalia can.

natbrazil
Hello Hardbody Nation,

We are only a couple weeks away from first ever Arnold Classic in Rio, which is going to be the biggest event of its type in Latin America. I know many of you, my gringo friends, only know about Brazilian soccer, Carnival… and-AHAM that women there have big booties! HA! I have decided to help you out with some great tips before you head South, to my amazing country? =)

I have listed 8 basics that one MUST know before going to Brazil:
• Brazilians speak Portuguese, NOT Spanish… and before you ask, NO they are not the same!
• Brazil is the 5th Largest country in the world, and the largest country in Latin America.
• The capital of Brazil is Brasilia, NOT Rio De Janeiro and Sao Paulo like many people think.
• The Brazilian currency is called REAL, and it is worth a little less than half of the American dollar. So, to make it simple… Just divide everything you see there by 2, and you find out what the price would be in American dollars.
• There are NO sales taxes added at the cashier when you buy things there. So, the price you see is the price you pay.
• BUT, Before you get SUPER excited about the currency… don’t think you are a bawler quite yet! Brazil is not a cheap place, things there are a bit pricey.
• Make sure you have the proper electrical outlet adapter (Two round prongs), because the ones there are different from the outlets in the US.
• Brazil is not like the US, where you have A/C everywhere you go. So… be ready to break a sweat my friends! =)

I hope you enjoyed the first one of my blogs to help you enjoy every minute of your stay in my beautiful country!!

Also, feel free to reach out to me if you have any questions on my Facebook.

Beijos, (‘’Kisses’’ in Portuguese)

Nathalia Melo

Filed Under: Arnold Classic, News & Features

2013 IFBB Europa Show of Champions – Orlando Pro Competitor Lists

April 16, 2013 by

The IFBB Pro League is in action once again this weekend and the competitors are showing up in a big way. The newest division to the pros, men’s and women’s physique, are blowing up with entrants. Perhaps it’s because of the addition to the Olympia but whatever the reason, props to them. Over 80 competitors have sent in their contracts to compete at the IFBB Europa Show of Champions in Orlando, Florida.

orlando-pro

The event is held in conjunction with a NPC event, growing expo and countless other events. Ed and Betty Pariso continue to grow this event and look for this to be one of the most competitive shows of the year in the Women’s Physique division. Patricia Mello is coming off a win at the LA Grand Prix and the pressure is off her to qualify for the Olympia. She’ll face a much tougher line-up here ad will have her work cut out for her on a repeat. Courtney King will look to move into the winner’s circle in the bikini division after a second place finish in her pro debut. The one to watch that many didn’t seem coming at the Battle on The Beach show is Nicole Witbeck. She has a great bikini body and should be in the top spots if she looks the same as last month.

The Men’s Physique and Men’s Bodybuilding 212 will also be part of the IFBB competition. For more information visit www.europaexpo.com.

2013 Europa Show Of Champions Pro Bikini
Maria Annunziata
Maura Bouchard
Danielle Carr
Jennifer Dawn
Lacey DeLuca
Jennifer Elliott
Ashley Kaltwasser
Courtney King
Nathalie Mur
Sabrina Nicole
Noemi Olah
Jessica Renee
Aly Veneno
Ashley Wade
Nicole Witbeck
Brittany Young
Francesca Yumul

2013 Europa Show Of Champions Pro Women’s Physique
Candrea Judd Adams
Rachel Baker
Evangeline Belton
Cinzia Massaro Clapp
Kristina Curci
Jill Dearmin
Melissa DiBernardo
Amanda Dunbar
Asha Hadley
Amanda Harris
Janet Koehler
Anne Marie Lasserre
Patricia Mello
Frances Mendez
Tiani Norman
Tammy Patnode
Antonia Perdikakis
Audrey Presson
Alecia Rankovic
Danielle Reardon
Jillian Reville
Jennifer Robinson
Leonie Rose
Jill Rudison
Stacy Simons McDowell
Mikaila Soto
Danielle Soucek

Filed Under: Show Previews

Live Twitter Chat with Miss Supercross & Cover Model Dianna Dahlgren

April 15, 2013 by

The reigning Miss Supercross and popular Fitness Model, Dianna Dahlgren joins us LIVE on Tuesday, April 16th at 6pm EST. Dianna will answer your questions on twitter in real-time. She’ll talk about how she’s made a career out of modeling, how she landed multiple magazine covers, sponsorships, makeup, competitions, Miss Supercross and more. She’s been seen in Muscle & Fitness HERS, FLEX, Muscle & Fitness, Fitness RX, Muscle Evolution and many other magazines.

dd-twitter-chat

Don’t miss this opportunity to have Dianna answer your questions personally and LIVE!


The Hardbody 411:

LIVE Hardbody News Twitter CHAT

DAY: Tuesday, April 16, 2013
TIME: 96pm EST
HASHTAG: #ddchat
FOLLOW ON TWITTER: @hardbodynews and @diannadahlgren

NEW TO TWITTER CHAT?
Do a search for #ddchat on Twitter at 6pm EST  (3pm PST) on the 16th to view the twitter conversation. Add #ddchat to your tweets so everyone can join in the conversation and see your questions. You can follow along live on our twitter chat page as well.



Filed Under: Twitter Chats

Bethany Cisternino Wins 2013 FIBO Power Fitness

April 15, 2013 by

Ten women competed in Cologne, Germany over the weekend in the 2013 FIBO Power Pro Fitness. Things played out as most expected but that’s not to say the competition wasn’t tough. Bethany Cisternino won not only the physique round but also the routine round. The win is the second in Bethany’s IFBB Pro career and reinforces her position as one of the divisions leading ladies.

bethany-cisternino
Ryall Graber-Vasani tied with Regiane DaSilva but won the tie-breaker for second place. Regiane brought one of her best physiques to date and the look helped her be a contender heading into the routine round. She was second in the routine round and Ryall was third in the routine portion of the show. When the scores combined the two were a lock with 36 points each. Arizona’s Whitney Jones finished in fourth and Kizzy Vaines rounded out the top five.

2013 IFBB FIBO Power Fitness Results:
1. Bethany Cisternino
2. Ryall Graber-Vasani
3. Regiane DaSilva
4. Whitney Jones
5. Kizzy Vaines
6. Nicole Duncan
7. Diana Monteiro
8. Babette Mulford
9. Amanda Hatfield
10. Somkina Liudmila

Filed Under: Contest Results

Patricia Mello Perfects Women’s Physique in LA

April 15, 2013 by

The first women’s physique competition of the year took place in California and Patricia Mello was crowned the winner. She was perfect on the judges scorecards with Venus Nguyen coming in second. Rounding out the top five were Karin Hobb (formerly Kimura), Jill Rudison, Leon Leonard. Patricia was second at this show last year and the win qualifies her for the first Olympia Women’s Physique Showdown.

mello-wins


Ron Avidan covered the event and photos can be found here.

2013 IFBB Pro LA Grand Prix Women’s Physique Results:
1. Patricia Mello
2. Venus Nguyen
3. Karin Hobbs
4. Jill Rudison
5. Leon Leonard
6. Susan Graham
7. Michelle Trapp
8. Anne Marrie Kam
9. Tycie Coppett
10. Antonia Perdikakis
11. Debbie Barrable-Leung
12. Anne Marie Lasserre
13. Janessa Roy
14. Keri Ann Heitzman
15. Stacy Simons McDowell
16. Elizabeth White

The Men’s Physique Division also had its first show of the year with Matt Christianer winning.

2013 IFBB Pro LA Grand Prix Men’s Physique Results:
1. Matt Christianer
2. Tyler Anderson
3. Alex Carneiro
4. Keenon LeBlanc
5. Mark Anthony
6. Donta Tanner
7. Michael Anderson
8. Tory Windward
9. Trevor Larsen
10. Ian Lauer
11. Jason Poston
12. Todd Abrams
13. Justin Busiere
14. William Sullivan
15. Scott Lamb
16. Adam Bankston
16. Douglas Peany
16. Matt Dubois
16. Michael Barnt

Filed Under: Contest Results

Arnold Classic Brasil Debut

April 14, 2013 by

The first-ever Arnold Classic Brasil will take place April 26-28, 2013 in Rio de Jeneiro. Hardbody News will be attending this historic event and covering all the action as it takes place in Brasil. The event will feature IFBB Pro Men’s Bodybuilding, Women’s Fitness and a Strongman competition. The fitness competition will be highly competitive with many of the top pros, including this year’s Fitness International Champ Tanji Johnson, competing.

arnoldbrasil


Arnold Classic Brasil Competitors:
Men’s Bodybuilding
Baitollah Abbaspour
Moe Bannout
Francisco Bautista
Brandon Curry
Toney Freeman
Edward Nunn
Michael Kefalianos
Cedric McMillan
Fernando Norunha
Robert Piotrkowicz
Ronny Rockel
Fred Smalls
Hidetada Yamagishi

Fitness
Regiane Da Silva
Nicole Duncan
Allison Ethier
Fiona Harris
Amanda Hatfield
Tanji Johnson
Diana Monteiro
Natalie Planes
Kizzy Vaines
Ryall Vasani
Trish Warren

Arnold Strongman
Hafthor Bjornsson
Mike Burke
Mark Felix
Jerry Pritchett
Brian Shaw

NEWS RELEASE
Arnold Classic Brasil to debut in April 2013
COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Arnold Sports Festival is coming to South America.

The first-ever Arnold Classic Brasil will be held April 26-28 in Rio de Janeiro and will feature IFBB Pro League men’s bodybuilding, a complete lineup of amateur bodybuilding events and a fitness expo.

Arnold Classic Brasil is a joint venture between Gov. Schwarzenegger, Arnold Sports Festival co-promoter Jim Lorimer, International Federation of Body Building president Rafael Santonja, and Savaget Promotions of Sáo Paulo, Brazil.

“We are very excited to take the Arnold Sports Festival model to South America in 2013,” Lorimer said. “The creation of the first Arnold Classic Europe in Madrid in October 2012 proved that there was great demand worldwide for the Arnold Sports Festival concept, and we look forward to continuing our globalization efforts in Rio de Janeiro next year.”

The Arnold Classic Brasil will feature professional men’s bodybuilding sanctioned by the IFBB Pro League and amateur contests sanctioned by the International Federation of Body Building. Additional sports and contests will be announced in the near future.

The Arnold Classic Brasil will partner with the Rio Sports Show, held annually in Rio de Janeiro, to create a health and fitness expo that will attract more than 35,000 attendees. The expo will feature the latest in equipment, sports nutrition, apparel and accessories. An accompanying “Fight Pavilion” will feature the latest in mixed martial arts and other combat sports.

Organizers hope the Arnold Classic Brasil will build on the success of the Arnold Sports Festival, which began as the Arnold Classic professional men’s bodybuilding competition in 1989 and has grown to include more than 18,000 athletes competing in more than 45 sports and events each year. The Arnold Classic Europe debuted in October 2011 and will return in October 2012.

The Arnold Sports Festival
The Arnold Sports Festival is the largest multi-sport festival in the nation featuring 18,000 athletes competing in more than 45 sports and events, including 12 Olympic sports, and the 700-booth Arnold Fitness EXPO. The Arnold Sports Festival was founded in 1989 by California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger and Jim Lorimer of Worthington, Ohio. The Arnold Sports Festival attracted a record 175,000 attendees to Columbus over four days in 2012. The 2012 Arnold Classic Europe will be held Oct. 12-14 in Madrid, Spain and the 2013 Arnold Sports Festival will be held Feb. 28-March 3, 2013 in Columbus, Ohio USA. For more, visit www.arnoldsportsfestival.com.

More Information www.arnoldclassicbrasil.com.br

Filed Under: Show Previews

2013 IFBB Pro Women’s Physique Division Returns to LA

April 12, 2013 by

The IFBB Women’s Physique Division will make its 2013 debut this weekend in Los Angeles, California. The division is the newest addition to the the IFBB Pro League and as this year progresses we should see it develop a bit more than last year. Last year was the first season for the pro division and every show featured a variety of physiques. We saw Figure competitors moving up in size and bodybuilders trying to downsize. Fitness competitors no longer wanting to take a beating on their physique with the routines also tried their hand at the division.

women-physique
Generally speaking, the Figure pros moving up with a bit more size came out on top. The direction the division headed was a figure competitor with more muscle. This meant more size than a figure competitor but maintaining good shape, balance and symmetry. You’ll also see women who have healthy looking skin and a feminine look place better. This weekend will help set the direction for the division.

Sara Hurrle will not be back to defend her title and will be making her 2013 debut at the new Colorado Mile High Pro show in June. Patricica Mello was runner-up last year and will be looking to take the top spot this year. Look for Tycie Coppett, Karin Hobbs (formerly Kimura) and Jill Rudison to be in the hunt if they are all in shape. Toni Perdikakis can be in the mix if she comes in conditioned as well. Don’t rule out a strong finish by California girl Venus Nguyen either.

IFBB Pro Women’s Physique Competitors:
1. Debbie Barrable (Alberta, Canada)
2. Tycie Coppett (Johns Creek, Georgia)
3. Susan Graham (Paso Robles, California)
4. Keri Ann Heitzman (Portland, Oregon)
5. Karin (Kimura) Hobbs (Boise, Idaho)
6. Anne Marie Kam (Eugene, Oregon)
7. Anne Marie Lasserre (Australia)
8. Leon Leonard (Sacramento, California)
9. Patricia Mello (Sao Paulo, Brazil)
10. Venus Nguyen (Irvine, California)
11. Antonia Perdikakis (Cockeysville, Maryland)
12. Janessa Roy (Manitoba, Canada)
13. Jill Rudison (Venice, California)
14. Stacy Simons McDowell
15. Michelle Trapp
16. Elizabeth White Wilson

NPC prejudging begin at 10am and the IFBB will likely start around noon California time. The show will also feature the IFBB Men’s Physique division. The Men and Women’s Physique Division will be held during the Olympia Weekend for the first time, so every competitor is out to win or finish with points in the Olympia Point Series.

For photos from last year’s show click here.

2012 LA GRAND PRIX RESULTS:
1 Sara Hurrle
2 Patricia Mello
3 Sabrina Taylor
4 Karina Nascimento
5 Stacy McDowell
6 Joele Smith
7 Carrie Simmons
8 CeaAnna Kerr
9 Trish Wood
10 Venus Nguyen
11 Marina Lopez
12 Kris Murrell
13 Donna Jones
14 Tonia Moore
15 Mascha Tieken
16 Irina Veselova

Filed Under: Show Previews

2013 FIBO Power Germany Pro Women’s Fitness Preview

April 12, 2013 by

Ten IFBB Fitness Pros will take the stage at the 2013 FIBO Power this weekend in Cologne, Germany. Competing outside of the USA can be a challenge for some competitors but with plenty of rest most adapt before show time. This is one of the few opportunities for the Fitness Pros to qualify for the Olympia by either winning or collecting points in the Olympia Point Series. We’ll see a mix of seasoned veterans and relative newcomers to the stage.

fibo-fitness

HARDBODY 411:
Bethany Cisternino – Bethany has one of the best physiques in the IFBB Pro Fitness divisions. If she brings a similar look to the stage that she did in Columbus, she’ll take top honors in the 2-piece round. She has a much stronger routine than in years past. If she’s far enough ahead of Regiane after the two-piece round, she should take top honors at the end of the night.

Regiane DaSilva – Regiane has the home turf advantage. She tends to fair better at European shows and her routine is like the Energizer Bunny… she just keeps going and going and… She’ll likely finish in the top spots but where is the question. She has the potential to win the show based on her routine but if she’s not in the middle of the pack heading into the routine round she could be in the 3-5 range.

Nicole Duncan – Loads of potential. Potential is a word that continues to be attached to Nicole. She has the ability to win the show if she comes in shape and brings a routine that is at the level we’ve seen her perform before. She wasn’t at her best conditioning for the Arnold last month and seemed a bit gassed during her routine. Nicole’s had a month to tighten things up and I look for her to be in much better shape and be in the mix for a top spot here. Redemption Road for this Georgia peach.

Ryall Graber-Vasani – Ryall has a good physique that continues to improve. If she can add more strength moves and perform a more fluid routine than in the past, she will be a contender. Look for her to be in the top half of the 2-piece round and then battle for a top spot in the routines round.

Amanda Hatfield – Amanda is coming off the Arnold where she was welcomed to the next level. She has the ability to hold her own and her gymnastic skills are amazing. If she brings a more poised and controlled routine to the stage and puts the jitters aside she’ll improve from her Columbus finish.

Whitney Jones – Whitney Jones closed out 2012 with a strong showing in the division and will look to pick up where she left off. The little details with Whitney are what will make or break her. Things like her tanning, presentation and not coming in too vascular and hard. It’s a balancing act with her physique and genetically she appears to always be vascular. She has strong skills in her routine and if she’s cleaned it up a bit and performs without little stumbles, she will be int he mix.

Somkina Liudmila – Somkina will have her work cut out for her at this show. She doesn’t have quite the physique that the others do in this line up so she’ll likely be playing catch up after the two-piece round. She has the ability to make up some ground in the routine portion of the competition.

Diana Monteiro – Diana is another competitor that often places better at European shows. She was third at the Arnold Europe and was second at the FIBO show in 2011. Look for her to be the dark horse to shake things up in the top five. She will likely be somewhere in the middle of the group in the 2-piece round but could move into the top five with a strong routine.

Babette Mulford – This will be Babette’s introduction into the pro league. She achieved pro status at the 2012 Team Universe and if she brings a similar look to FIBO she will hold her own. Little details could make the difference in the two-piece round like suit cut and posing. She flies high and really goes for it in her routine.

Kizzy Vaines – Kizzy is another competitor who could be in the top spots or the bottom of the pack and it all depends on what she brings to the stage. Again it’s the details that make the difference with her presentation and posing. She has the most insane flexibility in her routines and she’s coming off a 7th place finish at the Arnold. The show wasn’t her best but when she is at her best she’s a contender.

Saturday
Prejudging
4:30am eastern standard time

Finals
12:45pm eastern standard time

photo via Whitney Jones’ facebook.

Filed Under: Show Previews

Don’t Miss “Desitnation Dallas” Superstar Seminar

April 12, 2013 by

IFBB Bikini Pro Tawna Eubanks gives us the skinny on a cool seminar taking place in Dallas, Texas. If you’re in the area or ever wanted to train and learn from some of the best in the bodybuilding and fitness industry, this is your chance. We’re stoked to see this new facility come to fruition and it’s sure to be a popular spot for fitness enthusiasts.

desitnation

As shared by Tawna Eubanks…
There are exciting things going on in Dallas, Texas as the opening of “…destination Dallas” draws closer. What is being promised as a “must visit” for everyone living the extreme fitness lifestyle there’s a lot of anticipation behind the opening of this place! As a sneak peek into Destination a Super Star Seminar is being held on April 27th for everyone to meet top pros, watch them train, and interact with them in a question and answer formatted seminar.

If you haven’t heard about …destination Dallas yet, this is the combination of three great entities: Gasp and Better Bodies clothing line, Metroflex Gym, and Ultimate Sports Nutrition. Gasp and Better Bodies is one of the world’s top fitness clothing brands and they will have a showroom and warehouse inside of Destination. Metroflex Gym of Plano, sequel to the legendary gym of Ronnie Coleman, Branch Warren and a host of other great pros will offer a 10,000 square foot facility built specifically for hard training competitors. Ultimate Sports Nutrition is one of Texas’s top performing supplement retailers, will have their 11th Denver / Fort Worth location inside the destination, offering premier sports supplements at great prices.

WHEN:
Saturday, April 27, 2013

TIME / WHERE:
8am – 12:30pm
Metroflex Plano
2700 K Ave 200
Plano, TX 75074

12pm-5pm
Destination Dallas
2655 Premier Drive
Plano, TX 75075

On the women’s side of the event champion fitness competitor, Adela Garcia will kick things off with an 8:30am workout at the current location of Metroflex Gym of Plano. You can grab a healthy breakfast and watch Adela show you what helped her create a dominant fitness physique. Harbody’s own and Better Bodies’ IFBB Bikini Pro Tawna Eubanks will be training with new figure pro Jennifer Baker at 11:30am also at Metroflex Gym of Plano. Bikini and Figure competitors alike these are two extremely talented girls with a top level coach behind them, this is a great opportunity to pick up a few exercises to add to your contest prep or off-season training plan. Following a BBQ cookout from 12-2pm the girls, will be joined by Dallas area prep coach Jeff Dwelle. Collectively they will (4pm at the construction site of Destination Dallas) discuss everything from A to Z about competing. Diet, training, suits, shoes, posing, presentation you name it they are ready to talk to you about it! They’ll stay until the last question is answered!

On the men’s side of the event, Better Bodies athlete Mike Rashid (out of Long Beach, California) will be doing a high intensity, high volume bodybuilding workout at 8am at the current location of Metroflex Plano. Followed shortly thereafter by none other than Texas’ own, Gasp Athlete Branch Warren at 10am! Branch will show fans how to train insane in his own backyard. Branch Warren and Mike will be back at 2pm following the BBQ cookout and will be joined by contest prep guru Neil Hill. Don’t miss this opportunity to talk to one of the best bodybuilders Branch Warre and one of the top gurus in the sport, Neil Hill.

You can also catch a live webcast of this event at: MetroflexPlano.com!

seminar

Filed Under: News & Features

Food and Drug Administration Warns DMAA Potentially Dangerous

April 12, 2013 by

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued another story related to the use of dimethylamylamine (DMAA) in supplements. The FDA warned companies known to be using the ingredient that their products are illegal. The only company that did not stop using DMAA as an ingredient was USPLabs, which challenges the FDA’s findings.

fda-warning


ARTICLE FROM THE FDA
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is using all available tools at its disposal to ensure that dietary supplements containing a stimulant called dimethylamylamine (DMAA) are no longer distributed and available for sale to consumers in the marketplace.

The ingredient, DMAA, is most commonly used in supplements promising weight loss, muscle building and performance enhancement; it can elevate blood pressure and could lead to cardiovascular problems, including heart attack, shortness of breath and tightening of the chest. Given the known biological activity of DMAA, the ingredient may be particularly dangerous when used with caffeine.

As of April 11, 2013, FDA had received 86 reports of illnesses and death associated with supplements containing DMAA. The majority are voluntary reports from consumers and healthcare practitioners. The illnesses reported include heart problems and nervous system or psychiatric disorders. Note, however, that a report is not proof that the product actually caused the problem.

FDA has warned companies known to be using DMAA in dietary supplements that those products containing this ingredient are illegal. Such warnings offer the quickest way at FDA’s disposal to halt the further distribution of dietary supplements containing DMAA in the marketplace. In fact, all but one of the companies sent a Warning Letter have agreed to stop using DMAA as an ingredient in their dietary supplements. The one company that has yet to agree to such action, USPLabs, has responded to FDA’s warning by submitting published studies that purport to challenge FDA’s conclusions.

However, after reviewing the studies provided by USPLabs, FDA has found the information insufficient to defend the use of DMAA as an ingredient in dietary supplements. FDA is finalizing a formal response to the firm to reflect its findings, according to Daniel Fabricant, Ph.D., director of FDA’s Division of Dietary Supplement Program.

FDA’s authority over dietary supplements is very different from its authority over drugs and other medical products. FDA is required to undertake what are usually lengthy scientific and legal steps in order to force the removal of dietary supplements that may be unsafe or are otherwise illegal if companies don’t voluntarily comply.

As FDA continues the process needed to get DMAA off the market, the agency is urging consumers to check labels and avoid any dietary supplements containing DMAA, which is referred to on different product labels by 10 possible names. The alternatives are listed at FDA’s DMAA web page.

FDA’s response to the use of DMAA illustrates the challenges that the agency faces in addressing incidents involving potentially dangerous dietary supplements. The effort is increasingly important as the use of dietary supplements increases worldwide. A 2011 study found that more than half of U.S. adults used a dietary supplement between 2003 and 2006, compared to 40% between 1988 and 1994.

In recent years, FDA has alerted consumers to hundreds of tainted products marketed as dietary supplements. Consumers should be aware that dietary supplements are subject to different oversight than drugs and other medical products.

“Consumers may mistakenly look at a capsule and think that FDA has signed off on that product as safe and effective prior to that product appearing on the market, as we do with drugs and other medical products,” says Fabricant. “In contrast, with dietary supplements, there is no pre-market approval, and once a product is on the market, the burden is on the FDA to prove that a product is unsafe.”

FDA’s role in overseeing dietary supplements is laid out in a 1994 law and subsequent amendments. FDA’s enforcement capabilities range from issuing warning letters seeking voluntary cooperation—the quickest way to get a product off the market—to bringing criminal charges. In recent years, FDA enforcement actions involving dietary supplements have included banning products, executing injunctions, working with U.S. marshals to seize products, and issuing safety alerts and consent decrees—which are agreements approved and enforced by a federal court.

In many cases, FDA has acted when dietary supplements were found to contain ingredients approved for use in prescription drugs. DMAA was approved in 1948 for use as a nasal decongestant, but the approval was withdrawn in 1983.

The products cited in the warning letter to USPLabs are Oxy Elite Pro and Jack3D. These products claim, among other things, to be fat-burning and performance-enhancing supplements, respectively. While action in that case in pending, FDA is following up to ensure that other companies which promised to cease using DMAA as an ingredient in their dietary supplements are actually doing so. FDA is also looking to see if there are other dietary supplement products containing DMAA in the marketplace, and will continue to act to ensure that such products, when identified, are no longer distributed and available for sale to consumers.

Consumers are urged to report any problems associated with supplement use to the company or the agency, and to always consult with their health care professional before using a supplement.

This article appears on FDA’s Consumer Updates page, which features the latest on all FDA-regulated products.

Story from FDA.gov.

Filed Under: News & Features, Supplements

Pro Surfer Lakey Peterson Joins Nike Training Club

April 11, 2013 by

Nike has become more than a pair of running shoes. The brand has expanded into technology most never dreamed of years ago. One of the successful piece of technology is their iPhone and Android app. It helps you maximize your results and get motivated. Whatever your fitness goals might be, the Nike Training Club (NTC) app helps take up a notch. It’s a pretty sweet app that can help you get that hard body you want. Our Hardbody friend, Marie Wood-Purvis is a Nike Master Trainer and plays a huge role in the app.

lakey-peterson
The newest addition to the Nike Training Club is pro surfer Lakey Peterson. Lakey Peterson is a professional surfer and ranked one of the best in the world. She joined Marie and the NTC folks for a “Beach Legs” workout. Marie shared a photo on her instagram and it looks like they had a blast making it. Visit Nike Women’s Facebook page for some exercise tips and if you haven’t yet, download the Nike Training Club app.

lakey-marieLakey & Marie having some fun on the NTC set.

Get toned for summer with pro surfer Lakey Peterson’s new Beach Legs Workout for Nike Training Club.


How the NTC app works in seven easy steps.
via www.nike.com
01. IT ALL STARTS WITH YOU
Register with NTC so you can begin working out and we can begin helping you improve.

02. WORK OUT
Select your goal and level, then choose from a list of workouts that meet your criteria.

03. DRILLS & AUDIO GUIDE
Access detailed, step-by-step instructions and video demonstrations of each drill. A Nike professional trainer guides you through each step of your workout. Pause your workout at any time to access on-demand instruction.

04. MUSIC
Pick the album or playlist from your library that will keep you motivated.

05. RESULTS
After your workout, review a summary of your training inlcluding approximate NikeFuel earned, calories burned and more. Then share your results and see how close you are to your next reward.

06. REWARDS & BONUSES
Every minute of training gets you closer to NTC-exclusive rewards like personal training advice and star workouts. Unlock embedded reward content as you reach training milestones and earn badges.

07. TRAINING ESSENTIALS
Get the most from your workout with NTC-recommended products. Engineered to take your training further.

Check out Lacey’s new surfing movie, Zero to 100, that’s out later this month. Follow Marie on twitter and give her a Hardbody hello. She shares amazing tips on health, nutrition and training.

Filed Under: News & Features, Workouts

Open 13.5 Giveaway

April 11, 2013 by

There’s still time to enter the BSN Open 13.5 Giveaway! Enter your information here and could win BSN products and BSN branded RockTape.

bsn-giveaway


Prize Description:
4 Prospective Grand Prize Winners who meet all eligibility requirements will receive: one (1) 24-Serving SYNTHA-6â„¢ ISOLATE – Chocolate, one (1) 30-Serving AMINO Xâ„¢ – Fruit Punch & two (2) BSN® branded rolls of RockTape.

4 Prospective Secondary Winners who meet all eligibility requirements will receive one (1) 30-Serving AMINO Xâ„¢ – Fruit Punch & one (1) BSN® branded roll of RockTape.

Complete details and rules here.

Filed Under: News & Features

Happy Birthday Bodybuilding.com – Celebrate by Saving Big

April 11, 2013 by

Bodybuilding.com has become the online leader for not only great content but also amazing deals on supplements and nutritional products. The company celebrates it’s 14th Birthday today, April 11, 2013 and is offering visitors big savings. If you’re a little low on protein or maybe you need a new pre-workout supplement, stop by Bodybuilding.com and use the promo code BDAY20. The 20% off coupon only works until 12:00am PST so get a move on!

happy-birthday

 

Use Your “BDAY20” Coupon on These Brands
Optimum Nutrition Products
MusclePharm Products
BSN Products
Dymatize Products
Cellucor Products
MuscleTech Products
BPI Products
Infinite Labs Products
ProMera Products
Gaspari Nutrition Products
CytoSport Monster Products
Met-Rx Products
USPlabs Products
Top Secret Products
Driven Sports Products
VPX Products
MHP Products
Betancourt Nutrition Products
PharmaFreak Products
Axis Labs Products
Beast Products
Athletic Edge Products
iSS Research Products
EAS Products
Controlled Labs Products
MRM Products
SmartShake Products
ErgoGenix Products
Magnum Products
ProLab Products
Nutrex Research Products
EXT Products
Cobra Labs Products
Fitmiss Products
iForce Nutrition Products
Natrol Products
Supreme Protein Products
Harbinger Products
MRI Products
Pro Supps Products
Nutrabolics Products
Inner Armour Products

Filed Under: News & Features, Supplements

Healthy Recipes for Protein Pizza

April 8, 2013 by

When you ask people what their favorite cheat meal is many will say, PIZZA! While a slice of pizza is a nice treat from time to time, it would be great if there was a healthy version. Thanks to Anna Sward of Proteinpow.com and Bodybuilding.com you now have that option. Check out the recipes for a healthy version of pizza.

protein-pizza

Via Bodybuilding.com
This pizza is great for those watching their carb intake. Topped with mozzarella, spinach, and an egg, it makes for an incredible Fiorentina low-carb pizza!

Ingredients
• 1 cup of Liquid Egg Whites
• 1/4 cup of Psyllium Husks
• 1/2 cup of Pea Protein Powder (or Brown Rice Protein Powder)
• Herbs to taste (Rosemary, Thyme, Parsley)
• Garlic Salt and Onion Granules to taste

Directions
1. Blend or whisk all of the above ingredients together until you get a kind of thick liquid or sticky dough.
2. Spray a non-stick pan with PAM or coconut oil and heat it on high heat. Once the pan is hot-hot-hot, (so it sizzles a bit), scoop the dough into it. Spread dough with a spoon until it’s in a flat, round shape.
3. Once dough cooks on one side, flip it and cook until done. Then, remove it from the pan and place it on a grill or baking tray.
4. Add your toppings to the crust. You can use whatever you’d like, depending on your macro-nutrient needs and taste.
5. Broil pizza for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese melts and the sides brown.

Visit Bodybuilding.com for more the nutrition content of this recipe and other delicious recipes.

Filed Under: Recipes

New IFBB Women’s Physique Comeptition Added to Schedule

April 7, 2013 by

The IFBB Pro League is in full swing and shows are taking place across the world nearly every weekend. A show that may not be on many women physique competitors’ radar is the Optimum Classic. The show was recently added to the IFBBpro.com website and slated to take place on May 11, 2013.  The Optimum Classic Pro Women’s Physique show is promoted by Prince Harrison and Robert Blount in Shrevport, Louisiana. For more information contact prince@optimumfitness.com.

womens-physique

Visit IFBBpro.com for more info on upcoming competitions.

Filed Under: IFBB, News & Features

2013 Bodybuilding.com FIT USA Fitness Model Competition

April 5, 2013 by

IF you’ve ever dreamed of appearing in a fitness magazine and having a year supply of supplements this is a competition for you. The 2013 Bodybuilding.com FIT USA Model Competition will award one male and one female  with $500 cash, a feature in REPS or OXYGEN magazine, a photo shoot with bodybuilding.com and a year supply of supplements from MusclePharm. The contest is open to all BodySpace member over the age of 18.

fitusa
The top 20 finalists (10 men and 10 women) will be invited to compete at the 2013 Bodybuilding.com Fit Expo on June 8th. A panel of celebrity judges will choose the winners based on overall muscle tone, stage presence, shape and marketability as a fitness model. Last year’s winners were Liz Brown and Matthew Sulentic.

For complete details and registration visit bodybuilding.com. Good luck!

Filed Under: News & Features

2013 IFBB EVL’S Praque Pro & Amateur Bikini Olympia

April 5, 2013 by

The EVL’s Prague Pro is back for its second year and will be the final stop for the male bodybuilders in 2013. The event plays host to a pro bikini competition which was won by Justine Munro last year. The weekend will also hold the second annual Amateur Bikini Olympia. The dates have been set for October 19, 2013 in Praque, Czech Republic. This date has been changed from its previously announced time.

praguepro

NEWS RELEASE
2013 IFBB EVL’S PRAGUE PRO & AMATEUR BIKINI OLYMPIA
Europe’s premier bodybuilding competition is back for year two as the EVL’S Prague Pro, held October 19, is set to showcase the world’s best and brightest stars in Prague, the historic capital city of the Czech Republic (date changed from October 26).

Last year’s EVL´S Prague Pro marked the return of pro bodybuilding to the Czech Republic after a 14-year absence, instantly making it one of the most important events in the 2012 IFBB season. Over 80 competitors from all over the world attended the landmark event. Germany’s Dennis Wolf prevailed over the USA’s Shawn Rhoden to capture the men’s open bodybuilding title, while Flex Lewis, the newly crowned Olympia 212 Showdown champion, added another title to close out the best year of his career, and Justine Munro strutted her way past a tough field of challengers to win the bikini division.

Held once again at the state-of-the-art Tipsport Arena, the 2013 rendition will feature IFBB pro men’s open bodybuilding, 212-and under and bikini action. And with $180,000 (US dollars) of total prize money on the line, be prepared for a night of epic battles.

Also, the second annual Amateur Bikini Olympia will add even more heat to competition with the winner earning an IFBB pro card and an automatic spot in the 2014 Bikini Olympia! The 2012 version, won by the beautiful Vladimira Krasova (now an IFBB pro and qualified to compete in the 2013 Bikini Olympia), boasted the highest number of competitors in the contest. Who will be the luckiest lady in the land this year?

Fans will also be treated to the latest and best supplements and other products in the sports, fitness and health industry at the EVL’S Prague Pro Expo, held in the spacious Incheba Arena, located below the main hall of the Tipsport Arena.

Don’t miss the 2013 IFBB EVL’S Prague Pro Bodybuilding, 212, Bikini and Amateur Bikini Olympia, held October 19. For tickets and more information, go to evlspraguepro.com.

Filed Under: IFBB, News & Features

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