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VIDEO: The World of Female Bodybuilding on KATIE

November 27, 2013 by

Katie Couric sits down with amateur bodybuilding Brandi Akers on a recent episode of the talk show that bares her name. Joining Brandi on the couch with Katie is HBO REAL SPORTS host, Bryant Gumbel. They talk about the world of female bodybuilding on and off stage. Katie puts Brandi on the spot with a number of issues and Brandi handles herself well.

katie female bodybuilding

Gumbel talks about women being “wolfly underpaid” in the world of female bodybuilding despite the sacrifices they make. Katie then inquires about the world of muscle fetish and asks, “they’re called schmoes?” Katie says, “it’s freaky” when speaking about the world of bodybuilding she never knew existed. She proceeds to be a bit of a “schmo” herself when she asks Brandi to flex and touches her biceps. Katie proceeds hit a bicep pose after Gumbel mentions her sizable guns.

katie couric flexing

Even though the topics and questions may make some cringe, Brandi handles herself in a very professional manner. She looks and sounds feminine in the interview and does one of the best jobs I’ve seen in an interview. While female bodybuilding may not be for everyone, there is a fan base and Brandi has managed to build a sizable following in it. She’s competed a number of times as an amateur and despite not being a pro bodybuilder has found a way to capitalize on it. You don’t have to agree with her but she’s right when she says she is an entrepreneur.

Brandi Akers Katie Couric

katie couric female bodybuilding real sports

Filed Under: News & Features, Videos

2013 NPC National Championships Figure Results

November 27, 2013 by

NEW IFBB FIGURE PROS
• Jessica Thompson
• Rosalyn Dudding
• Shalako Bradberry
• Ivana Ivusic
• Jessica Canty
• Shelina Azan
• Carly Starling-Horrell
• Michele Horna
• Elissa Martis
• Annette Mendez
• Healohanani Montgomery
• Angie Garcia

View photos here.

2013 NPC NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS FIGURE RESULTS
Overall Winner – Elissa Martis

** IFBB PRO QUALIFIED

Class A
1. Jessica Thompson **
2. Rosalyn Dudding **
3. Akia Jenkins
4. Jennifer Cousins
5. Robin Chornock
6. Lacie Hunt
7. Erika Hansen
8. Karen Salinas
9. Martha Tierney
10. Danielle Aguilar-Calabrese
11. Nicole Alcala
12. Melissa Previte
13. Amy Joy McAlees
14. Virginia Pons
15. Kelly McGehee
16. Lea Goldsmith

Class B
1. Shalako Bradberry **
2. Ivana Ivusic **
3. Carie Bradshaw
4. Marlissa Jordan
5. Treasure Brooks
6. Autumn Massey
7. Hannah Hussein
8. Sindey Wolfe
9. Arista Jackson
10. Melissa Delaney
11. Nicole Randolph
12. Charise Parker
13. Haven Hennessey
14. Angela Sale
15. Karen Yoakum
16. Alicia Earnest
16. Erica Vogt
16. Isabelle Pfeifle
16. Sarah Fechter
16. Yesica Orol

Class C
1. Jessica Canty **
2. Shelina Azan **
3. Kimberly Zachry
4. Tiffany Garrett
5. Chika Aluka
6. Zory Tolstov
7. Chioma Uwasomba
8. Stephanie Rodriguez
9. Tania Valdes
10. Amanda Hartshorn
11. Cara Hammond
12. Charman Lett
13. Miranda Tamez-Dickenson
14. Jessica Marie Gaida
15. Michelle Otero
16. Cheryl Coutroubis
16. Dawn Ogundele
16. Elizabeth Brashaw
16. Hallie Cook
16. Helaina Barker
16. Jeanette Samuelson
16. Jennifer Olsen
16. Jessica Smith
16. Jyl Marie Stoltenberg
16. Kellie Jo Sullivan
16. Lakisha Hayes
16. Marnee Winn
16. Natalie Bush
16. Rita Sequeira
16. Sarah Walker
16. Stephanie Spencer
16. Suzanne Pantori Llano
16. Tatum Bounds
16. Tkiia Carrington
16. Topaz Good
16. Tristan Haller
16. Veronica Malloy

Class D
1. Carly Starling-Horrell **
2. Michele Horan **
3. Erika Cajigas
4. Kylie Marsh
5. Kayla Johnson
6. Ashley Stanton
7. Megan Olson
8. Darcy DeFrees
9. Vanessa Naesheim
10. Keisha Surratt
11. Jamey Peters
12. Dextria Sapp
13. Lamardra Juliana
14. Sarah Pitsch
15. Tania Quinones
16. Amy Hearon
16. Anissa Rogers
16. Chantelle Schwandner
16. Danielle Dove
16. Idianette Ortiz
16. Jena Weiss
16. Kahilila Alexander
16. Kathy Burke
16. Kenna Smoak
16. Kristen Collins
16. Loraine Cargill
16. Susie Lin

Class E
1. Elissa Martis **
2. Annette Mendez **
3. Kaylee Rae Flanagan
4. Bree Marsh
5. Amber Crowder
6. Tara Lynn Zito
7. Courtney Ritch
8. Ecko Johnson
9. AnneNicole Dy
10. Jessica Ann Vetter
11. Jennifer Delgado
12. Kristy Janak
13. Laurin Conlin
14. Keianna Henry
15. Holly Doulgerakis
16. Angelina Masino
16. Avril Belanger
16. Bobi Harrop
16. Caitlin Corry
16. Carla Benson
16. Catherine Roberts
16. Charli Woods
16. Courtney Cross
16. Denise Holloway
16. Kyla Long
16. Marissa Hein
16. Megan Daigle
16. Nadirah Shakir
16. Sara Willis
16. Valerie Brockington

Class F
1. Healohanani Montgomery **
2. Angie Garcia **
3. Natasha Castro
4. Bryana Turner
5. Shelby Mello
6. Kate Grevey
7. Bree Anderson
8. Sailyn DeBernardis
9. Morenike Atunrase
10. Kendra Beasley
11. Wanda Skelt
12. Sabina Moise
13. Alle Stauss
14. Tina Michele Glass
15. Tara Ramos
16. Amanda Cording
16. Amber Price
16. Bailey Dawn Milby
16. Camille Clarke
16. Cheryl Lenzer
16. Christine Baldridge
16. Crystal Dobson
16. Holly Hatcher
16. Jackie Faine
16. Jennifer Zsoldos
16. Jolie Lohmann
16. Kathryn Snider
16. Kimberly Frempong
16. LaRoyce Reid
16. Laura Ann Roberts
16. Lauren Hawkins
16. Shelly Howard
16. Wendy Jordan

Filed Under: Contest Results

2013 NPC National Championships Bikini Results & Hardbody Review

November 27, 2013 by

The 2013 NPC National Championships held in Ft Lauderdale, Florida marked the final opportunity for National Physique Committee (NPC) amateurs to compete for pro status. The top two finishers in each class graduated to the IFBB Pro League. Once in the pro league, competitors compete for prize money. The Bikini division has seen an unprecedented growth over the last two years and it was evident at this show.

2013 npc national bikini winners

As with most national level shows, some classes were more competitive than others. Obviously every competitor has their own reason for competing but what brings most competitors to a national level show like this is the chance to “go pro”. It’s often the little details that make the biggest difference on the national stage. A competitor’s physique, hair, tan, suit choice, makeup and presentation all come into play and can determine first callout or a third callout. Some women nailed this spot on but the majority of the competitors were far from polished and it makes you wonder if they need more stage time on the local level, hire a new coach or perhaps should have hired one to begin with. As always there’s some goofy posing, bad hair and makeup and poor suit choices but that’s to be expected. This show had fewer what “not to dos” than most shows and it shows progress in the division.

Those who follow the division knew there were a few favorites heading into this show. Some delivered and others fell a bit short. Janet Layug was one of those competitors who had some buzz heading into the show and delivered. She took top honors at the 2013 FLEX Bikini Model Search at the Olympia and had a string of NPC wins under her bikini. If she looks familiar, she bares a striking resemblance to her sister IFBB Pro Monique (Minton) Ricardo and it’s obvious there are great genetics in the family. As expected, Janet took home not only to honors in the F class but also the overall. While Janet has stunning good looks and a great physique I’d like to see her come in a bit fuller when she competes as a pro. She’s a tall drink of water and in some poses looked a bit too lean, especially when compared for the overall title. She’ll undoubtedly make an impact in the pro ranks and her years of modeling before entering the NPC are apparent on stage. She’s confident and has just the right balance of sexiness without it being too much.

2013 bikini winners front npc nationals2013 NPC National Overall Bikini Comparisons from the front.

2013 npc national bikini winners booty2013 NPC National Overall Bikini Comparisons from the back.

I thought Antanique Landry (C Class Winner – red suit) and Marcela Cabral (E Class Winner – blue suit) presented physiques that were a bit fuller and just the right balance of a tight and toned look. If the judges had went with Antanique for the win I don’t think too many people would have argued with the decision. This was the best she’s looked and it paid off with a win in the C Class. She was second in this class at the 2011 NPC Nationals and back then pro status wasn’t awarded to the top two in each class. She was also the runner-up at the 2013 NPC Jr Nationals and once again narrowly missed out on pro status as only the winners of each class left as a pro. Antanique not only brought her best physique to the stage she also rocked her hair a bit different and you couldn’t help but notice her on stage because of it. In previous shows she had her hair straight and didn’t stand out as much as she did with the naturally curly hair. A great example of how a simple hair choice makes a difference.

Marcela Cabral was the other class winner who stood out to me when it came to the overall comparisons. She was third in her class at the 2013 NPC Texas State but rose to the top at this show. She improved her posing and presentation from previous shows and it made a huge difference. Marcela has a nice balance of tight and toned muscle without being over-the-top. She was a bit fuller this show than previous shows and when she smiles she lights up the room. She’ll be one to watch in the pro ranks if she presents the same look as she did here.

View photos from the 2013 NPC National Championships here.

NEW IFBB BIKINI PROS
• Caryn Paolini
• Amy Updike
• Lisa Asuncion
• Lisa Schimkat
• Antanique Landry
• Lisette Howard
• Antanique Landry
• Lisette Howard
• Anne-Marie Caravalho
• Samantha Karr
• Marcela Cabral
• Alexa Hotaling
• Janet Layug
• Jade Carroll

2013 NPC NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS BIKINI RESULTS
Overall Winner – Janet Layug

** IFBB PRO QUALIFIED

Class A
Place/Name/Points
1. Caryn Paolini 7 **
2. Amy Updike 11 **
3. Annie Parker 12
4. Queenie Pe Benito 24
5. Yorkanis Francis 25
6. Justine Feril 18
7. Andreanna Calhoun 34
8. Wany Reyes 40
9. Arlene Oliva 45
10. Chelsey Novak 50
11. Lauren Triani 54
12. Kristy Malczewski 60
13. Aimee Cosban 65
14. Elspeth Dana 73
15. Brandie Sullivan 78
16. Harmony Cannon 80
16. Ciara Gale 80
16. Lindsey Fowler 80
16. Meagan McGraw 80
16. Holly Noelle Magyar 80
16. Tau’Mee King 80
16. Angela Rutherford 80
16. Brea Sharron 80
16. Candice Smith 80
16. Amanda Sullivan 80
16. Alma Villanueva 80
16. Genette Wolf 80

Class B
Place/Name/Points
1. Lisa Asuncion 6 **
2. Lisa Schimkat  9 **
3. Diana Whitt 16
4. Julia Price 19
5. Reuntae Juliano-Piho 28
6. Regan Doyle 28
7. Caroline Mahar 36
8. Lauren Head 39
9. Luisana Gandica 43
10. Caroline Rose 48
11. Jasmine Ramirez 57
12. Elizabetha Yisrae 61
13. Vanesa Zuluaga 66
14. Roselyn Adonis 69
15. Erica Calix 73
16. Sarah Bell 80
16. Heather Cobb 80
16. Meghan Dover 80
16. Kim Estess 80
16. Amy Finn 80
16. Danika Johnson 80
16. Valerie Holliday 80
16. Melanie Kate 80
16. Monica Marie 80
16. Patreceia Mathis 80
16. Nicole Mellison 80
16. Charmayne Mele 80
16. Janice Murphy 80
16. Lauren Nanni 80
16. Maria Parraga 80
16. Lavinia Pascu 80
16. Marianny Rondon 80
16. Veronca Salerno 80
16. Amy Sebille 80
16. Jenny Linh Spradlin 80

Class C
Place/Name/Points
1. Antanique Landry 6 **
2. Lisette Howard 10 **
3. Tessa Caldwell 16
4. Angelika Perez 18
5. Sarah McDonough 26
6. Angelica Gonzalez 31
7. Melody Batule 35
8. Jessie Melton 41
9. Cristina Ortiz 47
10. Kasie Petit 50
11. Jennifer Ronzitti 52
12. Chassidy Smothers 62
13. Erica Altman 65
14. Angela Turk 69
15. Caitlin McClurg 71
16. A.J. Bense 80
16. Alicia DiNovo 80
16. Amamda Fanelli 80
16. Amber Guilliams 80
16. Amy Bybee 80
16. Chantal Martinez 80
16. Darlene Adamusik 80
16. Ha Nguyen 80
16. Jeanette Gaveluson 80
16. Jodi Perl 80
16. Kathryn Mantone 80
16. Katie Oliveira 80
16. Kelly Grogan 80
16. Kristin DiJosie 80
16. Kristina Crank 80
16. Linda Pearson 80
16. McKensie Peacock 80
16. Melissa Bohnet 80
16. Molli Smith 80
16. Nicole Walter 80
16. Rachel Hatcher 80
16. Regina Jefferson 80
16. Renee Christine 80
16. Ruth Jean 80
16. Ruthie Bowles 80
16. Shannon Marie Rockweider 80
16. Sheena Parker 80
16. Shelby O’Fay 80
16. Shinda Obey 80
16. Sophia Low 80
16. Tiffany Manning 80
16. Tiffany Upshaw 80
16. Vanessa Dhupchilnda 80
16. Vivian Aiello 80

Class D
Place/Name/Points
1. Anne-Marie Caravalho 5 **
2. Samantha Karr 10 **
3. Candance Harrison 14
4. Kenea Yancey 20
5. Ashley Kurtenbach 25
6. Michelle Lagasse 29
7. Emily Hayden 35
8. Tara Koenke 36
9. Mary Musso 45
10. Jamie Del Angel 53
11. Beth Hall 57
12. Haley Davis 58
13. Justine Moore 62
14. Danielle Hoover 71
15. Danielle Thoman 75
16. Ebony Andrews 80
16. Cecilia Aleman 80
16. Melissa Allen 80
16. Tara Ashley 80
16. Erica Bruenton 80
16. Brooke Burres 80
16. Angela Cabral 80
16. Megan Callahan 80
16. Danee Cavaliere 80
16. Nicole Darabi 80
16. Lauren Degrove 80
16. Adrianna Eaton 80
16. Kathy Ellington 80
16. Adrienne Foster 80
16. Daniella Giafardino 80
16. Stephanie Hovers 80
16. Andrea Iverson 80
16. Sally Kaminski 80
16. Beth Khalaf 80
16. Renae Johnson 80
16. Jeannette Martinez 80
16. Dianet Pereda 80
16. Kathryn Petros 80
16. Kaitlini Rotzinger 80
16. Brittany Rogers 80
16. Miroslava Reese 80
16. Nicole Reynolds 80
16. Sarah Trattler 80
16. Allison Solomon 80
16. Rachel Strout 80
16. Alina Sziler 80
16. Laia Umansky 80
16. Biani Xavier 80

Class E
Place/Name/Points
1. Marcela Cabral 7 **
2. Alexa Hotaling 10 **
3. Brittany Adams 13
4. Stephanie Chapit 20
5. Whitney Wiser 23
6. Tonya Willard 30
7. Taylor Spadaccino 36
8. Anzhelika Khomenets 42
9. Brittany Taylor 43
10. Molly Parkton 51
11. Alyssa Gross 55
12. Erika Gerstner 59
13. Chanel Nichole Crawford 68
14. Valerie Wiest 75
15. Kristen Adams 77
16. Hope Beel 80
16. Katie Beckmann 80
16. Jennie Bogdanov 80
16. Kyla Bowron 80
16. Michelle Carvallo 80
16. Michele Cicalese 80
16. Jennifer Cullen 80
16. Danielle Defatta 80
16. Jessie Deye 80
16. McKenzie Fairbronics 80
16. Nicole Frew 80
16. Claudia Jaramillo 80
16. Kyle King 80
16. Stephanie Lynn Fross 80
16. Antonietta Luigini 80
16. Abby Lynn 80
16. Amy Morgan 80
16. Linda Susi Machado 80
16. Brittany Noel 80
16. Christina Profancik 80
16. Priscila Ruelas 80
16. Chelsea Schwink 80
16. Leah Tomson 80
16. Amber Wilder 80

Class F
Place/Name/Points
1. Janet Layug 5 **
2. Jade Carroll 13 **
3. Ashlee Rhodes 15
4. Amanda Woolery 20
5. Karlie Grooms 26
6. Ivory Crofoot 29
7. Lynnette San Miguel 39
8. Rachel Jarrell 39
9. DeAnna Patterson 47
10. Leyla Miller 48
11. Ashley Hartshorn 54
12. Saskia Boogman 57
13. Ashley Seeger 65
14. Katie Miller 72
15. Emily Herrington 73
16. Brii Abbott 80
16. Jerrica Batting 80
16. Rachel Cables 80
16. Viktorya Carstensen 80
16. Jennifer Cardona Pabon 80
16. Camie Cragg Lyman 80
16. Jody Jacoby 80
16. April King 80
16. Maria Kovalovsky 80
16. Leeron Lang 80
16. LaJean Morrow 80
16. Courtney Murphy 80
16. Rachel Schwartz 80
16. Reba Williams 80
16. Celeste Vannoy 80

Filed Under: Contest Results

2013 NPC National Championships – Women’s Bodybuilding & Physique Results

November 27, 2013 by

NEW IFBB WOMEN’S BODYBUILDING PROS
• Patricia Watson
• Alana Shipp
• Sarah Mathison
• Victoria Dominguez

Overall Winner – Victoria Domingue

NEW IFBB WOMEN’S PHYSIQUE PROS
• Hanna Hallman
• Lenore Kaiser
•  Kelli Schrader
•  Nickie Clark
•  Eunika Desir
• . Dolly Lazarre
•  Lynn Reif
•  Kimberley Raber

Overall Winner – Kelli Schrader

View photos from the 2013 NPC NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS here.

2013 NPC NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS WOMEN’S BODYBUILDING RESULTS
** IFBB PRO QUALIFIED

Lightweight
1. Patricia Watson **
2. Linda Smith
3. Frauke Diaz
4. Sue Epperson
5. Karen Holliday

Middleweight
1. Alana Shipp **
2. Leann George
3. Cassie Bats

Light Heavyweight
1. Sarah Mathison **
2. Carla Rossi
3. Myra Adams
4. Melanie Landry
5. Cheryl Faust

Heavyweight
1. Victoria Dominguez **
2. Keli Watkins
3. Kristine Mele
4. Jennifer Kennedy
5. Alyssa Stroud
6. Robyn Blankenship
7. Kasia Topor
8. Wendy Watson
9. Susanna Hand
10. Lea Louise Geiger
11. Laura Richards
12. Dana Richards
13. Nuriye Evans
14. Heidi Hegg
15. Lynette Wade
16. April O’Reilly
16. Lisa Fonseca

2013 NPC NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS WOMEN’S PHYSIQUE RESULTS
** IFBB PRO QUALIFIED

Class A
1. Hanna Hallman **
2. Lenore Kaiser **
3. Iramis Portero
4. Jill Vadala
5. Chareece Moore
6. Catherine Greninger
7. Kendra Clay
8. Heather Osborne
9. Glenda Bozett
10. Giselle Fernandez
11. Margaret Hayes
12. Tasha Rodgers
13. Margaret Negrete
14. Jennifer LaGuardia
15. Tiffany Dawn Delano
16. Linda Casalis

Class B
1. Kelli Schrader **
2. Nickie Clark **
3. Mary Anderson
4. Amanda Ramirez
5. Sheronica Henton
6. Katelyn Hasley
7. Rocio Guillen
8. Sabrina Toussaint
9. Andrea Morisse
10. Miss Bennett
11. Toni Renee Wheeler
12. Kelly Diffenderfer
13. Selena Smith
14. Star Blaylock
15. Joyce Daniel
16. Nancy Swanson
16. Ruby Popal

Class C
1. Eunika Desir **
2. Dolly Lazarre **
3. Vicki Diaz
4. Lori Canova
5. Miava Nelson
6. Melissa Martin
7. April Long
8. Tiffany Nance
9. Lisa Serrano
10. Sierra Mangus
11. Miranda Mills
12. Katie Kehoe
13. Elizabeth DeAngelo
14. Christine Marian
15. Cydne Fuston
16. Heather Payne
16. Marlene Harden

Class D
1. Lynn Reif **
2. Kimberley Raber **
3. Jennifer Brent
4. Lynnie Brooks
5. Cindy Coniglio
6. Leeann Friemoth
7. Suzette Henderson
8. Miranda Webb
9. Alma Agic
10. Sheeba Ibidunni
11. Abby Thompson
12. Zandra Starr Thomas
13. Lisa Horrigan
14. Violet Wilson
15. Patricia Vazquez
16. Erin Knecht
16. Kira Ana Gbur
16. Nicole Goncalves
16. Reba Williams
16. Rebecca Leetham

Filed Under: Contest Results

U.S. Marshals Seize More than $2 million Dietary Supplements from Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

November 20, 2013 by

FDA NEWS RELEASE

U.S. Marshals seize more than $2 million in adulterated dietary supplements from Georgia company
FDA acts to prevent distribution of products containing unapproved food additive

At the request of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, U.S. Marshals seized dietary supplements manufactured and held by Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals, Inc., located in Norcross, Ga., after FDA investigators found the products contained 1, 3-Dimethylamylamine HCl (DMAA) or its chemical equivalent. The retail value of the seized products is more than $2 million.

A complaint filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Georgia alleged that the products were adulterated according to the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act because they contain DMAA, an unapproved food additive that is deemed unsafe under the law.

The FDA is urging consumers not to buy or use supplements containing DMAA, which 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. Consumers should check labels and avoid any dietary supplements containing DMAA, which is referred to on different product labels by 10 possible names. The FDA has warned consumers about the health risks of DMAA on its web site.

On Nov. 12, 2013, U.S. Marshals seized more than 1,500 cases of finished goods and more than 1,200 pounds of in-process/raw material goods from the Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals, Inc. facility.

“This company has a responsibility to ensure its products are safe for distribution and human consumption,” said Melinda K. Plaisier, the FDA’s associate commissioner for regulatory affairs. “We have taken action to protect consumers and demonstrate our commitment to their safety by keeping these products from entering the distribution system.”

During the FDA’s inspection of Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals, Inc., which began in October, investigators identified eleven products that were labeled as containing DMAA or its chemical equivalent. These products included Black Widow, ECA XTREME, FASTIN, FASTIN-XR, Lipodrene, Lipodrene HARDCORE, Lipodrene XR, Lipodrene XTREME, LIPOTHERM, Stimerex-ES, and YELLOW SCORPION. The investigators also observed bulk DMAA raw ingredients at the facility. Prior to the seizure, on Nov. 1, 2013, the FDA issued an administrative detention, temporarily holding the products until they were seized.

To date, the FDA has received numerous reports of illnesses and death associated with supplements containing DMAA, including heart problems and nervous system or psychiatric disorders. Consumers can report an adverse event or illness they believe to be related to the use of a dietary supplement by calling 1-800-FDA-1088 or online. Your health care provider may also report this by calling the FDA’s MedWatch hotline at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Dietary supplements containing DMAA are illegal and the FDA is using all available tools at its disposal to remove these products from the market. In 2012, the FDA issued warning letters to companies notifying them that products containing DMAA need to be taken off the market or reformulated to remove this substance.

For more information:
FDA: DMMA in Dietary Supplements

The FDA, an agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, protects the public health by assuring the safety, effectiveness, and security of human and veterinary drugs, vaccines and other biological products for human use, and medical devices. The FDA also is responsible for the safety and security of our nation’s food supply, cosmetics, dietary supplements, products that give off electronic radiation, and for regulating tobacco products.
via FDA.gov

Filed Under: News & Features, Supplements

USPlabs Dietary Supplement Recall Expands

November 20, 2013 by

Update: USPlabs LLC Announces a Recall of OxyELITE Pro Dietary Supplements Due to Possible Health Risk
Recall expanded to include: Raspberry Lemonade OxyELITE Pro Super Thermo Powder

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – November 19, 2013 – USPlabs LLC, Dallas, TX is voluntarily conducting a national recall of all lots and sizes of the OxyElite Pro dietary supplement products listed below.

These products contain Aegeline, a synthesized version of a natural extract from the Bael tree.

Epidemiological evidence shows that use of these products has been associated with serious adverse health consequences, namely serious liver damage or acute liver failure, concentrated in Hawaii. Investigations are ongoing into a potential causal relationship. The Company agrees with FDA that a national recall is appropriate as a precautionary measure.

Product was distributed nationwide through retail stores, mail orders and direct delivery.

OxyElite Pro Super Thermo capsules

  • 2 count capsules UPC #094922417275
  • 10 count capsules UPC #094922417251
  • 10 count capsules UPC #094922417268
  • 21 count capsules UPC #094922426604
  • 90 count capsules UPC #094922395573
  • 90 count capsules “Pink label” UPC #094922447906
  • 180 count capsules UPC #094922447852

OxyElite Pro Ultra-Intense Thermo capsules

  • 3 count capsules UPC #094922447883
  • 3 count capsules UPC #094922447876
  • 90 count capsules UPC #094922395627
  • 180 count capsules UPC #094922447869

OxyElite Pro Super Thermo Powder

  • Fruit Punch 0.15 oz UPC #094922417237
  • Fruit Punch 0.15 oz UPC #094922447517
  • Fruit Punch 4.6 oz UPC #094922426369
  • Fruit Punch 5 oz. UPC #094922447487
  • Blue Raspberry 4.6 oz UPC #094922426376
  • Grape Bubblegum 4.6 oz UPC #094922447500
  • Green Apple 4.6 oz. UPC #094922426499
  • Raspberry Lemonade 4.6 oz. UPC #094922447494

No other products produced by USPlabs are subject to recall. Consumers who have purchased the products should immediately discontinue use of the product and return it to where they purchased it for a refund. Contact your health care professional if you have experienced any adverse effects.

Consumers can contact USPlabs at 1(800) 890-3067 (Monday-Friday, 9 am – 5 pm EST) or info@usplabsdirect.com. Adverse reactions may be reported to the FDA MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online athttp://www.fda.gov/medwatch/getforms.htm, by regular mail, or by FDA’s MedWatch Hotline 1-800-FDA-1088.
Via FDA.gov

 

Filed Under: News & Features, Supplements

History of Figure & Bikini Overall NPC Nationals Champions

November 20, 2013 by

This weekend close to 900 competitors will head to Florida for the 2013 NPC Nationals. The majority of those competitors will be women in the bikini and figure divisions. The Figure division dates back to 2001 when Davana Medina was awarded pro status. The Bikini division was introduced to the NPC Nationals in 2009 where Jessica Anderson was awarded the top prize. There are more pro cards are awarded now (the top two in each class) but there are also more competitors than the early days. Achieving pro status is clearly the goal but having the title of “Overall NPC Nationals Champion” is something bestowed only one in each division.

npc-nationals

FIGURE
The Figure division has awarded pro status since 2001. When you look back on the overall winners from NPC Nationals Figure you see a number of familiar names. If you want to win the Figure Olympia, your best chance is to be a NPC Nationals overall winner. There have only been five women to win the Figure Olympia since its inception in 2003. Three of the five were NPC Nationals overall champions. Davana Medina was awarded the first pro card in the Figure division and went on to win the Olympia three times. While she was awarded pro status in 2001 it wasn’t until 2003 that the pro division adapted the new division for the Olympia stage. Kristy Robbins took top honors in 2002 and competed in a handful of shows before hanging up her heels in 2004. She returned to the stage in 2011 but competed in the Bikini division. Amber Littlejohn took the title in 2003 and had a relatively successful figure career. She debuted at the Arnold Classic in 10th place but that would be her lowest placing as a pro. She was known for having crazy delts and an unique, exotic look. Amber was the runner-up at the 2006 Olympia, her highest finish.

Mary Lado may not have won the Olympia when she competed but she had a successful career on stage and appeared in numerous fitness magazines. She never finished out of the top ten as a pro and won the Arnold Classic twice. Mary was the 2004 overall figure winner.  The 2005 winner, Danielle Hollenshade had a career high third place finish at the 2006 Sacramento Pro. She competed at the Olympia once and we haven’t seen her on stage since 2007.  Sonia Adcock (Gonzeles) won the 2006 NPC Nationals and while she didn’t win the Olympia in Figure she did go on to win the inaugural Bikini Olympia in 2010. Sonia recently stepped away from the stage and is a new mom. Nicole Wilkins was the first and last woman to win the overall in not only the Fitness division but also the Figure division, in the same show. Nicole has gone on to have one of the best careers and arguable the best Figure competitor of all-time.  She debuted in 11th place at the 2008 Arnold but since then has won the show three times. She recently took home her third Olympia title. The 2008 overall champion is another familiar name to those who follow the Figure division. Erin Stern earned her pro status at the 2008 NPC Nationals and since then has become one of the best Figure competitors in history. She debuted in 10th place at the Arnold Classic but has never finished that low since. It’s rare that someone never finishes out of the top ten in the pros. You have to go all the way back to 2009 to find a show that Erin has been out of the top three. She’s won the Olympia twice (2010 and 2012) and without question one of the most successful overall Figure Nationals champions.

Mindi Smith burst onto the scene in 2009 by winning the overall NPC Sacramento Figure title. She followed it up with a win at the 2009 NPC Nationals, beating out fan favorite Ava Cowan for the overall. She won the 2010 Phoenix Pro and finished 4th at the Arnold Classic that same year. We haven’t seen Mindi on stage since 2010 and doubtful we ever will again. Monica Specking showed tremendous promise when she won the 2010 NPC Nationals overall title and has been on a roller coaster with her placings ever since. She won the 2012 Optimum Classic and finished fifth in the 2013 New York Pro. Monica can typically hang in the top ten with a smaller show but when it comes to the Arnold and Olympia she was at the bottom of the pack.  She’s competed at the Olympia twice and Arnold once, so she’s far from a slouch when it comes to her competition history.

The last two years have proven to be a struggle for the overall champs. Julie Mayer-Hyman was the 2011 champion and finally found her groove late this year as a pro. She was second at the 2013 Dallas Europa and fifth at the Tahoe Pro. Outside of those two shows, Julie struggled to make the top spots. Nicole Sims showed tremendous promise when she took home the crown in 2012 but has yet to find her groove in the pro ranks. She debuted at the Arnold and ended up in 14th place. Nicole has yet to finish better than 10th in the pro ranks.

FIGURE OVERALL NPC NATIONALS WINNERS

2012 - Nicole Sims
2011 - Julie Mayer-Hyman
2010 - Monica Specking
2009 - Mindi Smith
2008 - Erin Stern
2007 - Nicole Wilkins
2006 - Sonia Adcock
2005 - Danielle Hollenshade
2004 - Mary Elizabeth Lado
2003 - Amber Littlejohn
2002 - Kristy Robbins
2001 - Davana Medina

 

{democracy:259}

 

BIKINI
The fifth overall bikini crown will be awarded this weekend. When we look back at the previous overall winners it’s Jennifer Andrews who has the best competition resume. She’s the only overall Nationals’ champion who has gone not only won a pro show but also compete on the Olympia stage. Last year’s winner, Angela Skeels has competed in six IFBB Pro shows but only been able to crack the top five once. The 2011 Champion, Candy Agundez only competed once as a pro and missed the top five. Jennifer took top honors at the 2010 NPC Nationals and has competed in over a dozen shows since achieving pro status. She has four pro victories, competed at the Olympia twice and is already qualified for the 2014 Olympia with her win at the Ft. Lauderdale Cup. Jessica Anderson competed a couple of times as a pro but as a member of the US Military her schedule never really allowed for it. She recently had her first child and is busy being a new mom.

BIKINI OVERALL NPC NATIONALS WINNERS
2012 – Angela Skeels
2011 – Candy Agundez
2010 – Jennifer Andrews
2009 – Jessica Anderson

Visit nationalbodybuilding.com for information on this year’s event. We’ll be there covering all the action and if you are following along on social media use #NPCnationals to stay updated.

 

Filed Under: News & Features, NPC

Armless Fitness Competitor, Barbie Thomas on The Doctors

November 19, 2013 by

Barbie Thomas lost her arms as a child but that hasn’t stopped her from achieving success. Barbie has participated in a number of NPC shows and not just any division but the hardest one of all… fitness. She caught the attention of The Doctors tv show and will be appearing on the show today. Congratulations Barbie!

See Barbie’s competition photos here.

barbie thomas

Filed Under: News & Features

Goldieblox Gives Girls Freedom

November 19, 2013 by

This will bring a smile to your face. Goldieblox showcases girl power in a fun, creative and unique way. It’s the brainchild of Debbie Sterling, an engineer from Stanford who was bothered by how few women there were in her program. She decided to do something about it and hence GoldieBlox was born. It’s a book and a construction toy combined.

goldie-blox

Two days ago, GoldieBlox released a two-minute spot that rewrites the Beastie Boys’ “Girls” song and is set to a pretty rad setting showcasing three female inventors.

Girls are typically given Barbies, My Little Ponies or similar toys to play with. Growing up, Sterling was one of those girls who had the stereotypical girl toys. She set out to change the toy game but creating a something different. Something that would empower girls to think and be creative… a construction toy for girls. She tells the LA TTIMES, “Girls love stories and characters, whereas all the construction toys are building for the sake of building.”

GoldieBlox raised $150,000 in four days. Smashing their one year goal of 150k. Goldiebox raked in over $1 million in pre-oreders before the product was even on the market. You know you’re onto something when you’re pulling in those types of orders.

We’re GoldieBlox, a toy company out to show the world that girls deserve more choices than dolls and princesses. We believe that femininity is strong and girls will build the future — literally.

Our founder, Debbie Sterling, is a Stanford engineer who decided last year that girls need more choices than the pink aisle has to offer. She developed GoldieBlox, an interactive book series + construction set starring Goldie, the kid inventor who loves to build.

This year, we wondered what we could do to showcase the amazing inventive power that girls have. So…we might have recruited three young girls and that guy who made OK Go’s famous Rube Goldberg machine to turn an average home into a massive, magical contraption.

Via YouTube

Song lyrics:

Girls.
You think you know what we want, girls.
Pink and pretty it’s girls.
Just like the 50’s it’s girls.

You like to buy us pink toys
and everything else is for boys
and you can always get us dolls
and we’ll grow up like them… false.

It’s time to change.
We deserve to see a range.
‘Cause all our toys look just the same
and we would like to use our brains.

We are all more than princess maids.

Girls to build the spaceship,
Girls to code the new app,
Girls to grow up knowing
they can engineer that.

Girls.
That’s all we really need is Girls.
To bring us up to speed it’s Girls.
Our opportunity is Girls.
Don’t underestimate Girls.

Web edit – v10b-YouTubeUP-25k from Goldie Blox on Vimeo.

KUDOS Debbie This is a rad spot and an awesome idea! I know what I’m getting my niece for Christmas. Follow Goldieblox on twitter @goldieblox and check out their website, goldieblox.com.

Filed Under: Ad Watch

Hardbody Training: Get Shapely Shoulders

November 19, 2013 by

Get strong and shapely shoulders with this workout from IFBB Figure Pro Megan Wyble. Megan takes you though a sample workout in this installment of HARDBODY TRAINING. The next time you hit shoulders, give this workout a try.

shoulder-workout


Shapely Shoulders with Megan Wyble
Shoulders are my favorite body part to train. To me, shoulders are the hallmark of a competitor and I really strive to have that strong, broad and rounded shoulder appearance. In order to achieve the best results possible, I like to vary my workouts in terms of exercises, intensity techniques and rep tempo. Below is a snapshot of a typical shoulder routine that I might incorporate.

Seated Military Press 3 (sets) x 6-10 (reps)
This is my all-time favorite exercise for shoulders and a cornerstone for building overall delt size. I like to alternate barbell, dumbbell and machine presses from week to week.

Dumbbell Lateral Raises 3 (sets) x 8-12 (reps)
This is an exercise that I like to do both standing and seated. Performing these standing allows me to use a little more weight, whereas the seated version forces more strict form.

Barbell Upright Rows 3 (sets) x 6-10 (reps)

Javelin Thrower Press 3 (sets) x 12 (reps)
This is a unique exercise that I read about from Christian Thibaudeau.This exercise is performed standing while balancing a barbell in one hand and pressing it, unilaterally, overhead.

Rear Delt Flys
Drop sets to failure on fly machine.

All sets are done to failure. If I am able to go beyond the prescribed rep range, I will increase the weight on the following set. I will allow myself about 2 minutes rest between each set.

Follow Megan on Instagram @IFBBPROMEGAN and give her Facebook page a “like” facebook.com/meganwyblefitness.

 

 

training_megan

Filed Under: Workouts

2013 NPC Excalibur Closes Registration After Hitting 400 Entrants

November 19, 2013 by

If you’ve competed in or attended a NPC event this year you’ve likely noticed the numbers have never been higher. As more competitors take the stage in bikini and men’s physique local shows are now the size pro qualifiers were a few years ago. In an unprecedented move, promoter Jon Lindsay capped the 2013 NPC Excalibur at 400 entrants. He recently announced on Facebook that they’ve hit that number already and they will no longer accept entries. Will this be a sign of things to come for other shows? It certainly will be interesting to watch in the months ahead. There’s definitely a point where shows need a cap or move to two days.

excalibur-2013

 

Jon has already announced his deadline for 2014’s Excalibur. The show will move to a two-day event with a cap of 650 competitors.

*NO MORE ENTRIES FOR 2013 NPC EXCALIBUR*
We can no longer accept entries for the Excalibur on December 14th no matter the reason. We shut it down because we reached 400 registered 4 weeks and 2 days before the contest. With the athletes and attendees we will be over capacity and in VIOLATION OF FIRE SAFETY CODES if we allow anyone else to enter.

PROMOTERS WHO OVERSELL  > halls go to jail in California.

ON-LINE TICKETS > are still available at MuscleContest.com

I LOVE YOU ALL  > But I’m not going to jail or face a heavy fine in order to satisfy your ego or that of your trainer. We’re also not willing to ruin our relationship with the City of Culver City

FOR THE PAST 6 MOS > We have been advertising that there would be a 300 athlete limit on competitors. We’re at 400…

PLEASE DO NOT CALL OR EMAIL > Me or my staff in hopes of us ‘slipping you in’ We simply can’t do it. There will be no waiting list

PLEASE RESPECT MY JUDGEMENT ON THIS MATTER > Your safety and the safety of attendees is our #1 priority.

WE HAVE 21 CONTESTS PER YEAR > Our first events are Feb 1,8,15 in Las Vegas, Los Angeles and San Diego. Please join us!…

The December 12-13, 2014 NPC Excalibur will be a 2 day event with a 650 athlete cap.

 

Filed Under: News & Features

Alicia Coates Cruises to Second Pro Win

November 17, 2013 by

Alicia Coates cruised to her second pro win in as many weeks. The rookie out of Arizona put a stamp on her 2013 season by winning the inaugural Felicia Romero Pro Figure Classic. Last week, Coates won her pro debut and the Kentucky Muscle Pro. Leaping to her highest finish as a pro was Boise girl, Brooke Erickson. Brooke Erickson’s second place finish caps off a great season for her.

arizona pro results  Krista Dunn continued her hot streak by finishing in third. The finish puts her atop the Olympia point series heading into 2014.  Rounding out the top five was Sasha Brown in fourth and Crystal Lowery in fifth. Slipping from third at last week’s show to sixth this week was San Diego’s Francine Sablan.

Next up for the Figure Pros will be the Figure International. Many of these women will be looking for a spot at the prestigious event. If you’re a gambler, put your money on Alicia Coates not only getting an invite but making her presence known with a top 6 finish. She has the shape and look to stand out in any line-up. If she brings up her back just a bit she’ll be hanging with the first callout in every show she enters.

2013 IFBB FELICIA ROMERO PRO FIGURE CLASSIC
1. Alicia Coates
2. Brooke Erickson
3. Krista Dunn
4. Sasha Brown
5. Crystal Lowery
6. Francine Sablan
7. Alessandra Pinheiro
8. Dawn Fernandez
9. Karen Noorlun
10. Cinderella Richardson
11. Kimberly Dickson
12. Tarah Mitchell
13. Veronica Jackson
14. Devin Hockensmith
15. Lisandra McGrath
16. Chris Kramer
16. Robyne Roveccio

 

Filed Under: Contest Results

2013 IFBB Tijuana Pro Results

November 17, 2013 by

The 2013 Tijuana Pro brought the season to an end for the IFBB Pro League. Coming out on top in the bikini competition was Crystal Mathews from Denver, Colorado. It was her first win as a pro and will embark on her first Olympia in 2014. Jessica James struggled in her first two pro shows but rose to the top spots by finishing in second. She has tremendous potential and one to watch next year.

tijuana-pro-results

Dayna Maleton’s third place finish puts her at the top of the 2014 Olympia Point Series. Arizona’s Ashriel Osgood finished in fourth and Mexico’s Lorena Bucio rounded out the top five.

The next stop for the IFBB Pro Bikini division is Las Vegas, NV the first weekend of February. They will then pack up their gym bags and head to Columbus, Ohio for the annual Bikini International.

2013 IFBB TIJUANA PRO WOMEN’S BIKINI RESULTS
1. Crystal Matthews
2. Jessica James
3. Dayna Maleton
4. Ashriel Osgood
5. Lorena Bucio
6. Belinda Kiriakou
7. Cristy Mendivil
8. Edna Olivas
9. Nikola Weiterova
10. Deborah Goodman
11. Marisol Lara
12. Brittany Gaylord
13. Simone Sinclaire
14. Ronda Porter
15. Christy Cook
16. Michelle Mein
16. Nataly Banuelos

As expected, Dexter Jackson easily won the men’s bodybuilding competition.

2013 IFBB TIJUANA PRO MEN’s BODYBUILDING RESULTS
1. Dexter Jackson
2. Martin Kjellstrom
3. Kevin Ofurum
4. Manuel Lomeli
5. Alfredo Azpeitia
6. Gigori Atoyan
7. Juan Carlos Graham

Read the preview at: hardbodynews.com

 

Filed Under: Contest Results

High School Standout Runner Mary Cain Skips College, Turns Pro

November 15, 2013 by

MARY CAIN TURNS PRO, SKIPPING COLLEGE TRACK
Teenager middle distance star Mary Cain is skipping college and turning pro.

The 17-year-old became the youngest runner to represent the United States at the world championships in Moscow last summer. She finished 10th in the 1,500 meters.

The high school senior said in a statement released by her management company Friday that she believes “in the long this is the best way for me to continue to develop as an athlete.”

Cain will graduate from Bronxville High School in New York this spring. Her father, Charles, stressed that she will be “pursuing her college education while competing.”

The charismatic Cain is coming off a season in which she set numerous high school and American junior records. She trains under the guidance of former marathon star Alberto Salazar.

Copyright 2013 by The Associated Press

Filed Under: Track & Field

USA To Host 2016 World Indoor Track & Field Championships

November 15, 2013 by

Press Release:
World Indoor Championships to return to U.S. in 2016

11/15/2013 – MONTE CARLO, Monaco – Portland, Oregon, will host the 2016 World Indoor Track & Field Championships after the IAAF Council on Friday voted to bring the meet back to the U.S. for the first time since 1987.

USATF President Stephanie Hightower, USATF CEO Max Siegel, and TrackTown USA President Vin Lananna presented the joint Portland bid to the IAAF Council on Friday morning in Monaco. Birmingham, England, also bid for the event.

The 2016 World Indoor Championships will mark the first time a senior World Athletics Series (WAS) event has been held in the United States since the World Cross Country Championships in 1992. Eugene will host the 2014 World Junior Championships.

“We thank the IAAF Council and President Diack for entrusting us with the 2016 World Indoor Championships,” Siegel said. “We are honored and proud to be given the opportunity to again host the world’s national track & field teams on U.S. soil. USATF and TrackTown have the vision and execution that will make the meet a truly world-class experience.”

“We plan to leave a lasting legacy of new facilities, a renewed passion, and a new model to present indoor track and field,” Lananna said. “We will work tirelessly to create the most awe-inspiring event ever held in the U.S. for the athletes, fans, officials, media, partners and the entire IAAF family. We want to demonstrate our commitment with action.”

The three-day meet will be held in March, 2016, at Portland’s Oregon Convention Center (OCC). As configured for World Indoors, the facility will easily accommodate more than 8,000 spectators. A new 200-meter IAAF-certified track will be built and then repurposed as a legacy of the event.

As a local organizing committee, TrackTown USA has a track record of robust fan-engagement spaces. The OCC configuration for the meet includes creating a fan festival inside the facility and will put thousands of passionate and knowledgeable fans on top of the action.

TrackTown USA has hosted the 2008 and 2012 Olympic Trials, which reach record attendance levels. The group also serves as local organizing committee for the 2014 IAAF World Junior Championships, to be contested this July in Eugene, Ore., and the 2016 U.S. Olympic Trials.

via www.usatf.org

Filed Under: News & Features, Track & Field

2013 NPC Nationals Quickly Approaching

November 14, 2013 by

Florida’s Beaches Heat Up As The Country’s Sexiest & Toned Bodies Compete For The 2013 Bodybuilding.com NPC National Bodybuilding Championships

FT. LAUDERDALE, Fla., Nov. 12, 2013 — /PRNewswire-iReach/ — FT. LAUDERDALE – This November in sizzling in Ft. Lauderdale, as 1000+ contestants take the stage to compete for titles in the 2013 National Bodybuilding Championships. With various categories of competition, the nation’s hottest bodies will prevail as they are judged in many divisions including ‘Men’s & Women’s Bodybuilding,’ ‘Women’s Bikini,’ ‘Women’s Figure,’ and ‘Men’s & Women’s Physique.’

Thousands of spectators are expected to attend the weekend long event taking place on November 22-23, to determine who will receive ultimate pro division status, qualifying them to compete in the Worldwide IFBB Pro Grand Prix circuit.

The 2013 Bodybuilding.com NPC National Championships, which are presented by General Nutrition Centers, with feature sponsors including Optimum Nutrition, ABB, MET- Rx, Pure Protein, are officially sanctioned by the National Physique Committee of the USA (NPC). The NPC Nationals is the ultimate yearly qualifier for IFBB pro status.

Event registration kicks at the Hyatt Regency Pier 66 on Thursday, November 21, with weigh-ins (not open to public), followed by two days of competition starting on Friday at 1pm and Saturday at 9am with prelims taking place at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. The Finals will be held at 5pm on Saturday, also at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts.

The NPC is the “NCAA” of competitive amateur bodybuilding in the US and sanctions more than 1,000 events yearly around the country. All these events lead to the Nationals, its crown jewel.

Tickets are available at www.nationalbodybuilding.com, or by phone at 407-876-4467 or the Broward Center for the Performing Arts Box Office, 954-462-0222 (www.browardcenter.org)

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

For more information, contact: Pam Betz, Event Manager 407-876-4467 pambetz@aol.com.

Filed Under: News & Features

Would You Do 30 Squats for A Free Subway Ticket?

November 13, 2013 by

Chalk this up to one of the more creative approaches to marketing the Olympics. A new vending machine has been set up in Moscow intended to get people excited for the 2014 Winter Olympics. The machine was installed outside of one of the busiest subway stations and gives people the chance to earn a free ride. Do 30 squats in front of the machine and boom – free ticket.

winter olympics promotion squats subway

This is just the first installment from Russia’s Olympic Committee. They aim to “add elements of sport into daily life.” The committee has future plans to expand on the campaign. They will turn hanging handles on buses into exercise bands and install exercise bikes that produce electricity to charge cellphones.

It’s a unique way to promote the 2014 Winter Olympics and include a fitness aspect to it. It’s great to see this type of creative marketing being used and encourage people to be active. It’ll be interesting to see how many people are willing to participate. The 30 squat task has to be completed within two minutes. While most of you could knock out 30 squats in a blink of an eye, it remains to be seen what the general public will think.

This video shows how intrigued people are by the concept.

A subway ticket is typically 30 rubles (93 cents) for a single ride. There’s more information on olympicchange.ru however I don’t read Russian so if anyone does and would like to share more on what the site says, please let us know.

{democracy:258}

Lead image via Youtube.
Info for story from AFP.

Filed Under: Ad Watch, News & Features, Olympics

Noy Alexander’s Guide to Great Glutes – 2 Day Split

November 13, 2013 by

Noy Alexander became the first IFBB Master’s Pro Bikini champion earlier this month and she proves that you can have great glutes at any age. Noy breaks her booty training into two workouts, one on Monday and another on Thursday.  She shares her Hardbody Trainingâ„¢ with us. Give it a try.

noy alexander training


MONDAY

1. 3x 15 Good Mornings

2. 3x 15 Barbell Full Barbell Squats
Deep squats below parallel, start with body weight then slowly add weights. Chest up, keep torso erect, sit back pretend there’s a chair behind you.
Superset all then 60 Sec Break Max, repeat 3 sets X’s 15 reps.

3a. Barbell Sumo Deadlifts

3b. Dumbbell Curtsy Lunge
Stand with feet shoulder width apart. Take a large step back behind with one leg and cross it over while lowering ur hips until thighs are parallel to the floor. Keep torso upright, chest up, be careful knees never past the toes. Repeat on opposite leg.

3c. Dumbbell Stiff Legs

3d. Weighted Hypers
On a hyperextension machine, use a comfortable weight, dumbbell or plate, bend forward at the hips and bring head towards the floor. Lift back up focusing on contracting the glutes, go up slightly arch back, squeeze for 2 seconds. Repeat.

Superset 3 sets X’s 12 reps.

4a. Standing Single Leg Curl

4b. Stability Ball Ham Reverse Ham Curls
I like to switch it around because the stability ball works the core and spine muscles at the same time as the glutes and hams. I also get a very good burn just because there’s variation.

NOY’s NOTES: Start with your body weight.Then work your way up until the last the reps are challenging. I usually end up with 20-25 lbs for 12-15 reps. I do a lot of circuits and HIT for my lower body to keep everything tight and burn more calories. My focus always been on getting the glutes up and streamlining the hamstrings. I always, always spend 10 minutes stretching before and after my workouts.

THURSDAY
PLYOS in the Sand or Grass
Superset all, repeat 5 x’s 15 reps, 30 sec rest max between exercises, 60-90 second break at end.

1a. Frog Jumps

1b. Side Shuffle

1c. High Knee Grapevines
Step with left foot crossing in front right foot, step out with right foot, step behind with left foot, step out with right foot, going sideways.

1d. Split Jump Squats

Superset 4 x’s 20 seconds each exercise, 60 sec break max.

2a. Forward Sprints

2b. Backward Sprints

Follow on Noy on twitter and instagram at @noyfit. You can find out more on Noy and her training at www.Noyfit.com.

noy hardbody training glutes

 

Filed Under: Workouts

Ad Watch: Under Armour Makes You Better

November 12, 2013 by

Top U.S. Olympic skier, Lindsey Vonn shared news on her Facebook and Twitter accounts that Under Armour (one of her many sponsors) released a new commercial with #CGinfrared technology. What does that hashtag stand for you might ask? Coldgear® Infrared. It’s the latest technology from Under Armour that claims it will keep you warmer for longer. Will it? I’m  not sure but certainly intrigued.

under-armour-makes-you-better

Where’d Coldgear® infrared come from?
We looked at military planes – ones coated in a  powderized ceramic that absorbs infrared light, a kind of heat.

What makes it our best insulation system ever?
Doesn’t make you warm, it keeps you warm. No extra weight or bulk.

What’s the pattern?
Soft, thermo-conductive coating, inside your gear – that pattern absorbs and retains your own body heat.

How does it control your “microclimate”?
The innovation of ceramic material helps you control the temperature between your gear and your skin.

The commercial showcases a number of Under Armour’s athletes and says, “Our job is to make all athletes better and empower the NEXT generation of athletes to believe they can do anything!” I love their mantra and approach. Check out the newest commercial, released today in conjunction with their new Coldgear® Infared.

UA MAKES YOU BETTER

Make tight feel nice. 
Make strong look pretty.
And help make Lindsey’s comeback a reality. 

Filed Under: Ad Watch

Hardbody Poll & Preview: 2013 Tijuana Pro Bikini

November 12, 2013 by

The 2013 IFBB Tijuana Pro Bikini contest is the last pro competition of the year. The event will host a Pro Men’s Bodybuilding competition in conjunction with the Pro Bikini event. The men’s turn out is dismal with only five competitors. The women’s line up is a bit stronger and there’s no clear cut winner, at least not on paper. No one in the line up has won a pro show this year and who ever takes top honors will qualify for the 2014 Olympia.

tijuana-pro

If I were a gambling man I’d put my money on Dayna Maleton winning this show. She has the physique and the looks to be a leading lady in the division. When she relaxes and SMILES she projects a positive vibe and you’re drawn to her physique. When she takes the stage looking pissed and like she wants to stab someone you’re not as drawn to her physique. Sounds silly but if you’ve seen it in person you know what I’m talking about. So Dayna if you read this SMILE! She’s come a long way in her posing and should be the leading lady at this show.

Look for Crystal Matthews to make a run at the top spot if she is in shape on the lower half. She’s been as high as third as a pro but as low as 15th. I look for her to be in the top spots at this show. Deborah Goodman will be making her pro debut and could quietly make her presence known straight out of the gate. She achieved pro status at the NPC USA contest earlier this year and one to watch.

One woman most of these competitors won’t see coming is Cristy Mendivil. She has the looks and even competed on the Olympia stage despite most people not having a clue who she is. She was second at the 2011 Tijuana Pro and headed to the Olympia in just her second pro show. If she worked on her posing and presentation don’t be shocked if she’s in the first callout at this show.

Another dark horse to watch for is Ashriel Osgood. She was fifth in her pro debut at the Houston Pro and has the potential to win this show. I’d be shocked if she doesn’t finish in the top five and would make a case for her to be compared for the win. It will come down to how she presents herself and if she can showcase her physique with confidence. Since she’s ditched the first time jitters, I’d say watch out Tijuana this brunette beauty from Chandler, Arizona is coming.

Long shots but could be in the hunt… Simone Sinclaire and Nikola Weiterova. Simone posted online that she was going to make the switch to Figure so I’m a bit surprised to see her name in the lineup. Nikola has the looks but needs to come in tighter in her lower half and ditch the bright red lipstick she showcased last week in California. If she can come in tighter with more attention to the little details like her makeup she’ll move up. I like Jessica James look but she continues to struggle in her first two pro shows. Maybe the third time will be the charm for her.

{democracy:257}

Visit ifbbtjpro.com for more information.

2013 IFBB TIJUANA PRO WOMEN’S BIKNI COMPETITORS
• Christy Cook
• Brittany Gaylord
• Deborah Goodman
• Jessica James
• Belinda Kiriakou
• Marisol Lara
• Dayna Maleton
• Crystal Matthews
• Michelle Mein
• Cristy Mendivil
• Ashriel Osgood
• Ronda Porter
• Simone Sinclaire
• Nikola Weiterova

2013 IFBB TIJUANA PRO MEN’s BODYBUILDING COMPETITORS
• Gigori Atoyan
• Dexter Jackson
• Martin Kjellstrom
• Manuel Lomeli
• Kevin Ofurum

 

Filed Under: Show Previews

Hardbody Preview & Poll: 2013 IFBB Felicia Romero Pro Figure Classic – UPDATED

November 12, 2013 by

The final stop on the IFBB Pro League schedule is the first annual Felicia Romero Pro Classic. The even will be held in conjunction with a National Qualifying NPC show on Nov. 15 & 16, in Mesa, Arizona. Felicia joins the growing number of IFBB pros who are putting their competition suits on hold and putting a promoter’s hat on. Fifteen women will take the stage in hopes of snagging not only a win but also a spot on the 2014 Olympia stage.

felicia-romero-show

The odds-on favorite for this show is rookie Alicia Coates. Coates burned through the competition last week in her pro debut at the Kentucky Muscle. Unless she’s spent the last week throwing down in-and-out burgers she will collect her second title in as many shows. Alicia has the looks, a tiny waist and shape that puts her in elite company despite only having a few shows under her competitive suit. In the off-season she’ll need to add a little more width to her back but in this line-up she’ll rise to the top. She’s also one of the few women who can sport short hair and do so with style and a little edge. Her biggest competition will come from Francine Sablan. Sablan finished in third last week at the Kentucky Muscle Pro and if she tightened up a bit from last week she’ll stand next to Coates for the first callout of comparisons. I don’t see her beating Coates unless Alicia is off.

The more competitive spots will be third through fifth. Look for Krista Dunn and Brooke Erickson to be leading contenders for these spots. Krista has finished in the top five in her last two shows and should do so again here. She was fifth in Kentucky last week and collected a career high third at the Houston Pro. She’s in second for the Olympia point series and if she can finish in the top five again, she’ll end the calendar year on a high note. Brooke was 6th at the Houston Pro and brought one of her best looks as a pro to the stage. If she brings a similar look to Arizona this weekend she’ll be a contender.

Chris Kramer will make the move back to the Figure division after trying her hand at the Women’s Physique Division earlier this year. Masters pros Kimberly Dickson and Robyne Roveccio will try to crack the top spots. This will be Dickson’s second show and Roveccio’s first. Crystal Lowery will return to the stage after a few years away. We last saw her at the 2009 California Pro where she finished 14th.

Cast your vote for who you think will win the show and join the conversation on our Facebook page.

{democracy:256}

This will be the last IFBB Pro Figure show until the Figure International held in Columbus, Ohio the first weekend of March.  Visit www.npcmilesproductions.com for more info on this weekend’s show.

2013 IFBB FELICIA ROMERO PRO FIGURE CLASSIC
• Sasha Brown
• Alicia Coates
• Kimberly Dickson
• Krista Dunn
• Brooke Erickson
• Dawn Fernandez
• Devin Hockensmith
• Veronica Jackson
• Chris Kramer
• Crystal Lowery
• Lisandra McGrath
• Tarah Mitchell
• Karen Noorlun
• Allesandra Pinherio
• Cinderella Richardson
• Robyne Roveccio
• Francine Sablan

Filed Under: Show Previews

Registration Open for the 2014 Arnold 5K Pump and Run

November 11, 2013 by

Arnold 5K Pump and Run, Arnold 5K return for 12th straight year.

The Arnold 5K Pump & Run, which tests overall fitness by measuring both strength and endurance, is the largest race of its kind in the United States.
The race will have a record 850 competitors when the 2014 Arnold 5K Pump & Run is held on Sunday, March 2, 2014. A stand-alone 5K run is also held for those who do not take part in the Pump & Run.

arnold pump and run

Athletes from more than 30 states participated in the 2012 5K Pump & Run. In the competition, participants bench press a percentage of their body weight. Each lift (up to a max of 30) reduces their 5-kilometer run time by 30 seconds.

The Arnold 5K Pump & Run has 10 age / gender divisions. Depending on age, men must bench press 60 to 100 percent of their weight, and women 40 to 70 percent of their weight. U.S. Marine Corps drill instructors oversee the bench press and inspire lifters to their maximum.

Weigh-in and bench press begin at 7 a.m. Sunday March 2. The running portion of the 5K Pump & Run begins at 10:30 a.m. Spectators are welcome and the outdoor portion of the event is free. Admission to the “pump” portion of the Arnold 5K Pump & Run is included in the $15 daily ticket ($10 in advance) to the Arnold Sports Festival.

The 5K run-only event begins at 9:15 a.m. on Sunday, March 2 at the north end of the Greater Columbus Convention Center.

REGISTRATION FOR THE ARNOLD 5K PUMP & RUN OPENS AT 12:01 A.M. ON NOV. 1, 2013

Cost is $65 for the Pump & Run.

Arnold 5K Pump & Run Information

ENTRY TO 5K PUMP & RUN OR THE ARNOLD 5K RUN / WALK INCLUDES A T-SHIRT AND A DAILY EXPO TICKET ($15 value) FOR SUNDAY, MARCH 6.

Contact, Registration Information and more available on arnoldsportsfestival.com.

Story and photo via ArnoldSportsFestival.com.

Filed Under: Arnold Classic, News & Features

Arnold Sports Festival Survival Race Returns in 2014

November 11, 2013 by

The Arnold Sports Festival continues to add new events every year. The popular sports festival is held in Columbus, Ohio on the first weekend of March every year. The next event will be held on Feb. 27 – March 2, 2014. Last year the Arnold folks added a survival race and due to its popularity it will be back for a second year. The race registration is currently open for the 2014 event.

arnold-survivor-race

WELCOME TO THE 2ND ANNUAL ARNOLD SPORTS FESTIVAL SURVIVAL RACE!
The Arnold Sports Festival is celebrating its 25th year and we are honored to have the opportunity to join forces with this epic event.

As the original family-focused 5k obstacle course, the core philosophy of the Survival Race family is getting each member of the family unit out into the world and in better shape. Call it, old fashion fun.” Our mission, like The Arnold Sports Festival, is to introduce a healthier and more active lifestyle into as many households as we can. The amount of people taking part and interested in The Survival Race brand is exploding. The last three years have seen unprecedented growth in not only racers, but spectators as well. These individuals, families, and groups come from all walks of life and from a vast array of fitness goals.

It’s about engaging nature, getting dirty, having fun shaping up, and incorporating local communities and families into the mix. On race day the racers are a colorful and excited breed, many of whom traveled long distances to join in the action; scale walls, dash over pits, and truly challenge their minds and bodies like never before.

It’s popular to call modern life a race, but too many people feel like they’re on the sidelines. The Survival Race is about showing them they can get up off that couch, break away from the computers, put aside that game console and get involved — bring the family, get in-shape, and get neck deep in the action.

Life isn’t a race towards a finish line, but a race towards living the best lives we can, and making sure that the family unit/local communities where races happen are healthier, stronger, and more vibrant because of them.

We couldn’t be more pleased to share the same core philosophy and sense of passion as the amazing team behind The Arnold Sports Festival and we know, first hand, that all participants are guaranteed to make awesome memories and develop solid relationships that are sure to last a lifetime.

Race Day Information
Columbus, OH Saturday March 1, 2014
3.02 Grueling Miles (5K)

Location:
Lou Berliner Park
325 Greenlawn Avenue
Columbus, Ohio 43215

Lou Berliner Park – A few minutes drive from the Arnold Expo/Convention Center

Arnold Survival Race Details
Understand that you’re about to have the time of your life! Aside from the fact that you’re attending and will be a part of the worlds largest fitness based event, you’re about to become an official Survival Racer!

The Survival Race is designed for fun and although you’re going to be running, jumping, climbing, crawling and working hard, it’s more like exercise in disguise…You’ll be having too much fun to think of the challenge, plus the crowds, which may include your own friends and family, are going to be rooting you on! Come prepared for an adventure and don’t be surprised if you become addicted to this new style of outdoor adventure!

THIS JUST IN!!! Arnold Schwarzenegger has just announced that he is making a special appearance to The Survival Race on Saturday, March 2nd, to launch the second Survival Race wave off of the starting line! For those of you are are registered for or are planning to register for this 9:30am wave, bring your kids and help us support our very special guest.

Visit http://thesurvivalrace.com/columbus-oh-5k-race-2014/ for more information and to sign up today. Follow ArnoldSports on Facebook for more info on the 2014 Sports Festival.

Filed Under: Arnold Classic, News & Features

Miesha Tate Upsets Ronda Rousey in UFC Cover Contest

November 11, 2013 by

It’s no secret that Ronda “Rowdy” Rousey is not a fan of Miesha “Cupcake” Tate. That’s of little concern to Miesha, at least in this event. Miesha’s fans cast more votes for her in the EA SPORTS UFC Cover Contest and she moves on to round two. The big story in this is that Miesha squared off against the UFC Women’s bantamweight champ who is also thought of as the face of women’s MMA.

tate-vs-rousey

In the eleventh hour, Miesha’s push on social media proved to be her best asset. Despite having nearly 223,000 fewer fans on twitter (Miesha currently has 147,142 to Ronda’s 369,983) she came out victorious.

Did Miesha even the score?

The two fought inside the cage before and Ronda prevailed by making Tate tap via her signature arm-bar. Lately, Ronda’s been getting a great deal of heat for the way she comes across on this season of the Ultimate Fighter. Boss man, Dana White doesn’t give a crap what fans think about how Ronda comes across on tv and noted that without Ronda he never would have brought women into the UFC.

Ronda and Miesha will fight again on December 28, 2013 at UFC 168. The winner of Rousey vs Tate leaves Vegas with the UFC championship belt. The winner of the EA Sports Cover Contest shares the cover with Jon Jones, the men’s 205-pound champion. Something tells me that while Rousey would have liked to be on the cover of the game, she’d much rather hold on to her belt in December.

Rest assure Ronda will be asked how she feels about losing this contest to Tate at the next UFC press conference / media event. We know how Miesha feels.

VOTING SCHEDULE
Round of 16: Prelims – Voting live from Mon, Nov. 4th – Sun, Nov. 10th
Round of 8: Main Card – Voting live from Mon, Nov. 11th – Sun, Nov. 17th
Final Four: Co-Main Event – Voting live from Mon, Nov. 18th – Sun, Nov. 24th
Finals: Title Fight – Voting live from Mon, Nov. 19th – Sun, Dec. 1st

Round Two Matchups

match-ups

EA SPORTS UFC will be released in spring 2014.

Filed Under: MMA, News & Features

USPlabs Recalls OxyElite Pro

November 11, 2013 by

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE — November 9, 2013 – USPlabs LLC, Dallas, TX is voluntarily conducting a national recall of all lots and sizes of the OxyElite Pro dietary supplement products listed below. These products contain Aegeline, a synthesized version of a natural extract from the Bael tree.

Epidemiological evidence shows that use of these products has been associated with serious adverse health consequences, namely serious liver damage or acute liver failure, concentrated in Hawaii. Investigations are ongoing into a potential causal relationship. The Company agrees with FDA that a national recall is appropriate as a precautionary measure. Product was distributed nationwide through retail stores, mail orders and direct delivery.

OxyElite Pro Super Thermo capsules
2 count capsules UPC #094922417275
10 count capsules UPC #094922417251
10 count capsules UPC #094922417268
21 count capsules UPC #094922426604
90 count capsules UPC #094922395573
90 count capsules “Pink label” UPC #094922447906
180 count capsules UPC #094922447852

OxyElite Pro Ultra-Intense Thermo capsules
3 count capsules UPC #094922447883
3 count capsules UPC #094922447876
90 count capsules UPC #094922395627
180 count capsules UPC #094922447869

OxyElite Pro Super Thermo Powder
Fruit Punch 0.15 oz UPC #094922417237
Fruit Punch 0.15 oz UPC #094922447517
Fruit Punch 4.6 oz UPC #094922426369
Fruit Punch 5 oz. UPC #094922447487
Blue Raspberry 4.6 oz UPC #094922426376
Grape Bubblegum 4.6 oz UPC #094922447500
Green Apple 4.6 oz. UPC #094922426499

No other products produced by USPlabs are subject to recall. Consumers who have purchased the products should immediately discontinue use of the product and return it to where they purchased it for a refund. Contact your health care professional if you have experienced any adverse effects.

Consumers can contact USPlabs at 1(800) 890-3067 (Monday-Friday, 9 am – 5 pm EST) or info@usplabsdirect.com. Adverse reactions may be reported to the FDA MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online at http://www.fda.gov/medwatch/getforms.htm, by regular mail, or by FDA’s MedWatch Hotline 1-800-FDA-1088.

Filed Under: News & Features, Supplements

US Women’s Soccer Team Beats Brazil 4-1

November 11, 2013 by

ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — Sydney Leroux scored twice in the first half and the U.S. women’s soccer team completed its sixth undefeated year with a 4-1 exhibition victory over Brazil on Sunday at the Citrus Bowl.

Abby Wambach also scored in the first half, Erika Tymrak added a goal, and goalkeeper Hope Solo made a series of diving saves in the second half.

The victory in front of the team’s biggest crowd of the year at 20,274, gave the U.S. a 13-0-3 mark this year. It also pushed the Americans’ unbeaten streak to 38 — and 76 at home.

The U.S. controlled the ball and the field for much of the first half, breaking through with goals in the 15th and 17th minute. The first came when midfielder Heather O’Reilly fielded Kristie Mewis’s cross and dropped it to Leroux for a shot to the lower-left corner.

A foul then set up Wambach for a penalty kick that America’s career goals leader drilled into the lower- right corner past diving goalkeeper Thais. It was the 163rd goal for the 2012 FIFA World Player of the Year, and more importantly ensured the U.S. wouldn’t fall into the same trap as in the team’s last outing, a 1-1 tie against New Zealand in which the team failed to convert many potential winners.

Brazil, which didn’t get a shot until the 21st minute, got its lone goal in the 24th when Rosana took Rilany’s cross and slipped it inside the left post.

The Americans pushed back to a two-goal lead in the 38th minute when Leroux dribbled the ball from well outside the penalty era, cut to the right past a defender and fired it back to the left.

Solo ensured the lead would stand up in the second half for the Americans, making three spectacular saves in an 8-minute span as Brazil carved out a series of breakaway opportunities. Solo made diving saves on 1-on-1 opportunities, two by Raquel and another by Rosana.

Tymrak concluded the scoring off of Lindsey Horan’s assist in the 77th minute.

Filed Under: NEWS, Soccer

PROfile: Iron Games Winner – Taylor Matheny Benston

November 10, 2013 by

Taylor Matheny Benston shares what works for her when it comes to diet, nutrition, training and supplementation. The blonde cutie recently won her first pro win but she’s been eating healthy and cooking up a storm for years. Find out what workouts helped her build a pro physique and more in this bodybuilding.com interview.

taylor matheny benston bikini pro


What Workout Plan Worked Best For You?
Being a nutritional chef helps me maintain a clean healthy diet year-round. I love weightlifting and only do minimal cardio.

What Nutrition Plan Has Worked Best For You?
I stay with a balance of fruits, fresh veggies, lean proteins, and complex carbs. I never deprive myself of any flavors or taste. I use fresh herbs and spices in abundance and I have special recipes for answering those sweet tooth cravings without feeling guilty!

What Supplements Have Given You The Greatest Gains?
I have always been a big fan of Dymatize ISO-100 protein powders. They are great tasting and make amazing muffins and brownies! I make sure I always have my liquid calcium, magnesium, and vitamin D supplements on hand at all times. They help keep my bones strong and they are easy on the joints after all the lifting.

Read the entire interview here.

Filed Under: Interviews

Taylor Matheny Benston Take Top Honors at The Irongames Pro

November 10, 2013 by

Taylor Matheny Benston won her first pro show in Culver City over the weekend at the IFBB IRON GAMES. Sixteen women competed but only the winner punches their ticket to the Olympia stage. She successfully did what few saw coming… beat last week’s Iowa Pro champion, Narmin Assria.

iron-games-pro

Taylor is no stranger to the pro bikini stage and her placings have been up and down over the past two years. She’s always had a great look but it was the little details that held her back. She would often try too hard to be sexy on stage and her suit choices weren’t always the best. She’d place as high as second and as low as 16th. On Saturday in Culver City, California she put all the little details together and deservedly took top honors. The judges saw it as an unanimous win.

Narmin Assria was coming off a win at the Iowa Pro so the pressure was off her but that didn’t stop her from showing up less than her best. She had to settle for second this time around though. Riding a high from last weekend’s first pro master’s win, Noy Alexander continued to more than hold her own. She finished fifth in the open last week and moved up to third in this competition. She continues to bring a better look as the season goes on. Candice Conroy edged out Jessica Arevalo by three points to take fourth. Jessica was third last week in Sacramento but relegated to fifth this weekend.

2013 IFBB IRON GAMES PRO BIKINI RESULTS
1. Taylor Matheny Benston
2. Narmin Assria
3. Noy Alexander
4. Candice Conroy
5. Jessica Arevalo
6. Janelle Saitone-McGuire
7. Jessica James
8. Ronda Porter
9. Liana Hamilton
10 Nikola Weiterova
11. Karey Grabow
12. ennifer Hohnbaum
13. Belinda Kiriakou
14. Jennifer Dietrick
14. Lisa Valdez
16. Stacey Naito

Visit NPCnewsonline.com for contest photos.

Filed Under: Contest Results

Alicia Coates Rolls In Pro Debut – Kentucky Muscle Pro Figure Results

November 9, 2013 by

The 2013 IFBB Pro Figure season is coming to an end but Alicia Coates is just getting started. The Arizona resident coasted to an unanimous win in her pro debut at the 2013 Kentucky Muscle Pro. She won her class at the NPC Jr. Nationals earlier this year and picked up where she left off in the big league. The win qualified her for the 2014 Olympia slated for September.

alicia-coates

Alicia noticeably put on some size since June but managed to keep a tiny waist. She beat out a field of wiley veterans and will look to repeat the feat again next week at the Felicia Romero Classic. Dana Ambrose came finished in second and collected four points towards the Olympia Point Series. Francine Sablan bounced back up into the top three and also snagged coveted points with the third place finish. Canada’s Natalie Waples finished in fourth and rounding out the top five was Colorado’s Krista Dunn.

One show remains on the schedule for the Pro Figure competitors and then it’s downtime until the Figure International next March. Congratulations to everyone who stepped on stage and reached their goals this weekend at the Kentucky Pro.

2013 IFBB KENTUCKY MUSCLE PRO FIGURE RESULTS
1.Alicia Coates
2. Dana Ambrose
3. Francine Sablan
4. Natalie Waples
5. Krista Dunn
6. Vera Mallett
7. Georgina Lona
8. Bojana Vasiljevic
9. Jennifer Brown
10. Shala Singer
11. Devin Kenney-Hockensmith
12. Melanise Pettee
13. Monica Labriola
14. Kimberly Moore
15. Tracy Redding
16. Tiana Gonzalez
16. Candice Houston
16. Sandie Kight
16. Kaylen Manier
16. Chelsey Morgenstern
16. Laura Sutter

Visit NPCnewsonline.com for contest photos. The Pro Men’s Physique was also held with this show along with a NPC competition. Tory Woodward took top honors in the Men’s Pro Physique division.

Kentucky Muscle Pro MPD Results
1. Tory Woodward
2. Michael Bevins
3. Michael Anderson
4. Jonathan Cetera
5. Jonathan Sebastian

Filed Under: Contest Results

Jaimie Alexander Discusses Demanding Role in Thor & Advice for Women

November 9, 2013 by

In the new film Thor: The Dark World, Jaimie Alexander plays Sif, a second generation goddess of Asgard. Sif is an Asgardian warrior and lover of Thor, who often accompanies him into into battle. The role of Sif is a physically demanding one and to prepare for it Jaimie changed up her training and nutrition.

jaimie-alexander-thor
She recently sat down with Bodybuilding.com to discuss her role in the latest Marvel movie. She admits the training aspect was a little intimidating but reminds women that being thin is not the way to go. Jaimie says, “I prefer to have some meat on my bones.” For the first Thor she bulked up by eating meat but for this role she changed things up to be a bit more agile.

Jaimie discusses running and physical activity that not only helps her physically but also mentally. As a runner in high school, she said it helped her clear her mind but lately Hot Yoga helps her do this. Jaimie shared the benefits of how yoga has helped her not only look better but feel better.

jaimie-alexanderJaimie has shares great advice for women in this interview. Via Bbcom.

Jaimie encourages women to “know your body and don’t mistreat it.” She reminds women that starving yourself is not the way to go. Jaimie says, “You know when you eat something and it makes you sick and you don’t feel well, and you know when you eat something that makes you feel great. And that’s something that you need to pay attention to.”

She really hits the nail on the head when she reminds women not to compare their bodies to others and to respect themselves. “Respect yourself and live healthy,” Alexander wisely offers at the end of the interview.

Visit Bodybuilding.com for more on this feature.

Images via bbcom.

Filed Under: Celebrity Fitness, Videos

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