Archives for December 2013

New Law to Require Calorie Info on Vending Machines


The United State government continues to takes steps in the fight against obesity. New rules are in the works that would require vending machines to display calorie information. Education is a huge part of the obesity problem and any steps to help fight is good but will posting calories encourage healthier eating?

calorie count

The bigger problem with items in vending machines isn’t necessarily the calorie count but where the calories are coming from and more often than not it’s sugar. Those who are already health conscious will find the info helpful but what if you don’t know how to read a label? Lots of questions come from it and it’s certainly a timely discussion with the new year and weight loss being one of the top resolutions for most Americans.

{democracy:268}

PRESS RELEASE
HEALTH LAW TO PUT CALORIE INFO ON VENDING MACHINES
CONCORD, N.H. (AP) — Office workers in search of snacks will be counting calories along with their change under new labeling regulations for vending machines included in President Barack Obama’s health care overhaul law.

Requiring calorie information to be displayed on roughly 5 million vending machines nationwide will help consumers make healthier choices, says the Food and Drug Administration, which is expected to release final rules early next year. It estimates the cost to the vending machine industry at $25.8 million initially and $24 million per year after that, but says if just .02 percent of obese adults ate 100 fewer calories a week, the savings to the health care system would be at least that great.

The rules will apply to about 10,800 companies that operate 20 or more machines. Nearly three quarters of those companies have three or fewer employees, and their profit margin is extremely low, according to the National Automatic Merchandising Association. An initial investment of $2,400 plus $2,200 in annual costs is a lot of money for a small company that only clears a few thousand dollars a year, said Eric Dell, the group’s vice president for government affairs.

“The money that would be spent to comply with this — there’s no return on the investment,” he said.

While the proposed rules would give companies a year to comply, the industry group has suggested a two-year deadline and is urging the government to allow as much flexibility as possible in implementing the rules. Some companies may use electronic displays to post calorie counts while others may opt for signs stuck to the machines.

Carol Brennan, who owns Brennan Food Vending Services in Londonderry, said she doesn’t yet know how she will handle the regulations, but she doesn’t like them. She has five employees servicing hundreds of machines and says she’ll be forced to limit the items offered so her employees don’t spend too much time updating the calorie counts.

“It is outrageous for us to have to do this on all our equipment,” she said.

Brennan also doubts that consumers will benefit from the calorie information.

“How many people have not read a label on a candy bar?” she said. “If you’re concerned about it, you’ve already read it for years.”

But Kim Gould, 58, of Seattle, said he doesn’t read the labels even after his choice pops out of a vending machine, so having access to that information wouldn’t change what he buys.

“People have their reasons they eat well or eat poorly,” Gould said.

Standing with his 12-year-old daughter near a vending machine in a medical clinic where he bought some drinks last week, he said he only makes purchases at the machines when he’s hungry and has no other options.

“How do we know people who are buying candy in the vending machines aren’t eating healthy 99 percent of the time?” he added.

As for the new labels, Gould said he wasn’t sure what the point would be, and that they would just be “nibbling around the edges of the problem.”

The FDA also is working on final rules for requiring restaurant chains with more than 20 locations to post calories information, something some cities already mandate and some large fast-food operations have begun doing voluntarily. A 2011 study in New York found that only one in six customers looked at the information, but those who did generally ordered about 100 fewer calories. A more recent study in Philadelphia found no difference in calories purchased after the city’s labeling law took effect.

“There is probably a subset of people for whom this information works, who report using it to purchase fewer calories, but what we’re not seeing though is a change at an overall population level in the number of calories consumed,” said Brian Ebel, the study’s author and an assistant professor at New York University’s department of population health and medicine.

Ebel said he wouldn’t be surprised if the vending machine labels end up being equally ineffective, but he said it’s possible that consumers might pay more attention to them for a couple of reasons. In some locations, a vending machine might be the only food option, he said. And reading a list of calorie counts on a machine will be less overwhelming than scanning a large menu at a fast-food restaurant with other customers waiting in line behind you, he said.

“It could go either way, but I think there’s at least some reason to think it could be slightly more influential in vending machines.”

Even without the calorie counts, consumers already have ways to make healthier choices from vending machines. The vending machine industry group launched its “Fit Pick” system in 2005, which includes stickers placed in front of products that meet healthy guidelines for fat and sugar content. The program is used by nearly 14,000 businesses, schools and government agencies, as well as all branches of the military.

Story via Associated Press

 



Final Day to Vote for Your Top IFBB Women of 2013


Today is not only the last day of 2013 but it is also the final day to vote for who YOU think are are the leading ladies of 2013. Who made their presence known in the IFBB Pro ranks and would make a case for being on our Hardbody Top Ten List?

top female pro

We’ve narrowed down the lists by divisions and the voting is super close in some division. Cast your vote today! Leading the pack in all the votes is Women’s Physique Pro, Dana Linn Bailey. Oksana Grishina and Nathalia Melo are next in the mix and rounding out the top spots is Nicole Wilkins. Alina Popa is in the lead over 9-time Ms. Olympia Iris Kyle. Leading the fan write-in votes is Boise, Idaho figure pro Brooke Erickson.

You can see all the nominees and if you think we missed someone add them in as well. Tell a friend, this is the home stretch before the polls close.



Lindsey Jacobellis Returns After Multiple Injuries


Lindsey Jacobellis is one to watch at the 2014 Winter Olympics. She made her long awaited return to the mountain just before Christmas and she showed no signs of slowing down. It was her first snowboardcross victory in close to two years. Lindsey said in post race interview that it was tough mentally to get back in the mix after two knee surgeries and a broken thumb. Understandably so and we’re stoked to see her back on track.

Lindsey Jacobellis Wins

Lindsey is a 2006 Olympic silver medalist and has won gold at the World Championships on three separate occasions. She’s a seven-time X Games Champion and is on the invited list once again this year.

Via Youtube:
LAKE LOUISE, AB.– Olympic silver medalist Lindsey Jacobellis (Stratton Mountain, VT) made her overdue return to the podium Saturday with her first snowboardcross World Cup victory in nearly two years in Lake Louise, AB. Jacobellis has been absent from the sport since Jan. 2012 because of a knee injury.

lindsey and cindy in california
Lindsey and Hardbody Contributor, Cindy aka “The Sports Stylist” Whitehead at the 2013 espnW Women + Sports Summit.
 

Keep up with Lindsey…
Instagram: Lindseyjacobellis
Twitter: LindsJacobellis
lindseyjacobellis.com



Hardbody Photo of the Day: Candice Lewis Motivation


IFBB Figure Pro Candice Lewis rocks a hardbody and is today’s photo feature of the day. Candice is currently living in Denver, Colorado and preparing for the 2014 Figure International in March. She has the potential to be a top contender in every show she enters and is one to watch, not that we’re asking much of you there.

candice lewis

Pin this image to your pinterest page or share on Facebook. BE STRONGER THAN YOU WERE YESTERDAY! Remember it’s only you against yourself when it comes to the gym, training and your nutrition. #MEvsME

stronger candice

Candice Lewis



Ronda Rousey Takes More of A Beating After Win Than During


The UFC’s first female champion, Ronda Rousey successfully defended her title against Miesha Tate and moved to 8-0 in the process. Until last night, all of Rousey’s fights had ended in the first round by arm bar. The end result was the same (arm bar once again) but took place in the third round of UFC 168 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

ronda rousey ufc champ

Those who follow Women’s Mixed Martial Arts (WMMA) along with the Vegas odds-makers knew a snowball in hell had a better chance of surviving than Tate did in this fight. UFC president Dana White reminded the media and fans that Tate was a “fighting dog” and she did manage to do what no one else had done, taking Ronda into a round outside of the first, but Rousey’s simply a superior fighter. Ronda suffered very little damage in the fight, so little in fact that at the post-fight press conference her next fight was announced. Ronda will square off against fellow Olympic medalist Sara McMann, a fight many fans thought should have been the first one made in the octagon.

There seems to be more chatter online and in the post-fight interviews about Ronda not shaking Miesha’s hand than the fight itself. After Miesha tapped out and the referee called off the fight, she stuck her hand out but Ronda walked away. The MGM Grand erupted in boos and twitter lit up. It’s no secret to those who watched The Ultimate Fighter and followed the pre-fight hype that the two don’t care for one another. So why would this come as a shock?

Some fans were brutal with their comments and surprisingly most of them are women. Calling Rousey “classless”, an “asshat”, “poor sport”, “not a champ”, “disgusting” and more. One of the most dramatic female comments reads, “I used to like her and now wouldn’t bother to piss on her if she were burning.”

Really? Come on people.

I’m sorry but I don’t see it as a class-less move, instead I have MORE respect for Rousey by NOT shaking her hand. Sure… Ronda came across as a bit of a loose cannon at times when she was coaching on The Ultimate Fighter. Miesha was shown as the good girl in a positive light. It’s the classic good versus evil. Do I think it was a great move by the UFC to show the champion as a bit of nut? Not so much. The show helped facilitate and manufacture the “rivalry” when diehard WMMA fans knew when the octagon door shut it would be all Rousey.

How many times do we see this monster build up where two opponents are shown hating each other and talk more trash than imaginable? Often. Why? It gets people excited, it creates buzz and interest. Then when the fight is over more often than not we hear them say it was just hype and they hug it out. That’s great and all but it’s the UFC and not the WWE. I’d rather see two people keep it real at the end of a fight and not pretend like they are besties. I’ve seen it countless times in bodybuilding, figure, fitness and bikini competitions where the competitors hug, smile and shake hands only to talk shit as soon as the other person leaves. Oh but that’s being a good sport and showing class right? Not so much. It’s amusing and baffling all at once that a handshake, or lack there of, can cause such controversy.

Rest assured, Rousey knows what she is doing. You may not like the gesture after the fight but you’re talking about her and taking a side. She forces you to have an opinion… for, against or simply don’t care. The buzz keeps her relevant and as long as she continues to win people will tune in. How much will people be talking about Miesha after this fight? She’s lost twice, by the same move, to Ronda so likely not much.

The crazy thing is how no one is talking about her male counterpart being a poor sport or lacking class in an earlier fight. Chris Leben, a veteran of the UFC and fighting on the same card, was knocked silly at the end of his first round. He threw in the towel and left the octagon before the official announcement was made. Many on twitter were applauding him for “knowing it was the right move to hang it up.” How is it that he’s not the one people are blasting for being a poor sport? Oh ya, he lost and he’s on his way out. He’s not the champion and apparently people could care less.

Rousey explained herself and why she didn’t shake her hand in the post fight interviews and at the press conference. She gave Miesha her props as a fighter and said she respected what she had done but until she apologized for what she said to her coaching staff/family; she wouldn’t think about shaking her hand.

Love the move or not she’s speaking her mind and not blowing smoke up your ass. She’s being herself and if that makes her an “ass hat” then sign me up cause I’ll buy one. That’s my take. What’s yours? Join the conversation on Facebook or on twitter #noShakeGate and share your thoughts on the topic.

photo via mmaweekly.com



UFC 168 Preview & Poll: Tate vs Rousey in Co-Main Event


This weekend UFC champion Ronda Rousey (7-0) puts her belt and title on the line against her bitter rival, Miesha Tate (13-4). The fight is the co-main event one of the UFC’s biggest cards of the year. In the main event, Chris Weidman defends his title against legendary Anderson Silva. The attention has largely been on the Silva rematch but fans are also anxious for the rematch between Ronda and Miesha.

ronda-miesha

Ronda Rousey was virtually unknown 3 years ago and when I interviewed her at the LA FIT EXPO before her first fight with Miesha, many people believed she had talked her way into the fight. She shut those people up when she not only defeated Miesha but also submitted her to remain undefeated. She did so in convincing fashion and in the first round. That fight took place during the Arnold Classic weekend as part of the defunct Strikeforce promotion. The fight was impressive enough to get the attention of the UFC’s president Dana White and he changed his tune on Women’s Mixed Martial Arts.

Ronda was part of the UFC’s first women’s event and the event had more media attention from the “mainstream” than anyone since Brock Lesnar. The fight arguably had the most mainstream media attention of any UFC fight. The UFC hype machine went into overdrive to push the fight and while it did a good job of selling fans on Ronda, it left little desire to pay attention to the Women’s MMA after that. As evident in this weekend’s rematch, we see little to no attention outside of the usual MMA media. ESPN’s Sports Center is giving it about as much attention as a high school football game. When Ronda fought in the octagon the first time you saw TIME, LA Times, HBO and countless other outlets covering the event.

ronda dolce diet

Ronda at the UFC 168 Weigh-ins looking hardbody.

Does Ronda care? Hell no. She wisely put herself on the map heading into her first match with Miesha by giving the media sound clips they could run with for days and she continues to do so today. She took a bit of a hit from MMA fans by the way she was portrayed on The Ultimate Fighter but outside of that fan base it’s done little to cause he stock to drop. She appeared on Jimmy Kimmel Live and was a very happy, upbeat and likable champ.

Miesha’s fan base grew out of The Ultimate Fighter appearance. She was shown as a smiling, happy but tough athlete. The fans showed their support when the UFC put her against Ronda for the UFC’s video game cover. She was victorious over Ronda in that contest and will look to do it again tonight but can she?

Anything is possible in the octagon but if you’re a gambler don’t be against the champ. Ronda is an Olympic athlete who is used to intense pressure and media attention on her. She’s talked about how she has more energy than ever before by teaming up with Mike Dolce on her nutrition. When the two stepped on the scales yesterday, you could see Ronda looked the best she has heading into a fight and it could spell bad news for Miesha. Miesha is no slouch but she’ll need to put her emotions in check and fight much smarter than she did the first time against Ronda. Miesha’s stand up is her best bet against Ronda but she better hope it knocks “Rowdy” out because when it goes to the ground we know how it will end. In an arm bar, like every other one of Ronda’s fights, and in the first round.

{democracy:267}


Ronda Rousey and Miesha Tate have developed one of the fiercest rivalries in the UFC, spawned from Rousey’s armbar submission of Tate for the Strikeforce title in 2011 and their stint as coaches on TUF 18. The pair battle again at UFC 168.



Hardbody Photo of The Day: Miesha Tate Weighs In


The women are back in the octagon this weekend in Las Vegas, Nevada at UFC 168. Miesha Tate takes on the champion Ronda Rousey in the co-main event and it’s sure to be one to watch. The two were coaches on The Ultimate Fighter and since that time Miesha’s popularity has increased but will she be able to get past the champ? The odds-makers in Vegas don’t think so but never say never.

 

miesha tate

She’s today’s Hardbody Photo of The Day. Once Miesha made weight (135lbs) she through up a bicep pose and gave it a kiss. The fans loved it and she shows she’s definitely got some guns.

miesha tate muscle

Photo via UFC weigh-in webcast. 



Hardbody Photo of The Day: Katie Rowlett Laugh a Little


Katie Rowlett reminds us all that it’s okay to have fun when building your hardbody. You don’t have to take yourself too serious en route to being at the top of your physical fitness game. Remember to laugh a little and enjoy the journey.

katie-laugh

 

Pin this image to your Pinterest Boards, share it on twitter or post to Facebook to inspire not only yourselves but others. Everyone could use a little motivation, especially a set of abs like Katie’s! Have fun building your HEALTHY, HARD BODY.  You can follow Katie on Facebook and let her know you saw her on HARDBODY.

katie-photo



Sarka Pancochova Wins U.S. Grand Prix Women’s Snowboarding Slopestyle


Team USA was poised for another podium sweep at the U.S. Grand Prix Women’s Snowboarding Slopestyle but ended up falling short. Jamie Anderson, who was the leading lady heading into the finals, fell on both of her final runs and ended up out of the top spots. Instead it was Czech’s Sarka Pancochova who was victorious and the only woman to score in the 90s. Switzerland’s Isabel Derungs edged out Elena Koenz by .25 for second. Ty Walker was the highest U.S. finisher in fourth.

sarka snowboarding

Results U.S. Grand Prix Women’s Snowboarding Slopestyle:
1. Sarka Pancochova (bib #29) CZE – 92.25
2. Isabel Deurngs (bib #3) SUI – 81.50
3. Lena Koenz (bib #56) SUI – 81.25
4. Ty Walker (bib #31) USA – 78.00
5. Enni Rukajarvi (bib #1) FIN – 76.00
6. Cheryl Maas (bib #48) NED – 46.25
7. Jamie Anderson (bib #2) USA – 45.00
8. Jessika Jenson (bib #37) USA – 21.50
9. Merika Enne (bib #38) FIN – 84.33
10. Karly Shorr (bib #54) USA – 80.66

The U.S. Grand Prix Tour returns to Breckenridge on January 8-11, 2014 where the competitors will be looking to secure a spot on the first-ever Olympic slopestyle snowboarding team.



Video: Gretchen Bleiler’s Remarkable Recovery


Gretchen Bleiler is one of the top female snowboarders in the world. Over the weekend she finished in third at the U.S. Grand Prix in Copper Mtn., Colorado. Impressive by any standard but what makes her podium appearance an even bigger deal is the challenges she’s overcome.

gretch-bleiler


Xgames.com recently published a video
in conjunction with Muscle Milk (one of Gretchen’s sponsors) that tells Gretchen’s remarkable story. While warming up she suffered a broken eye-socket, broken nose and a concussion. A number of people thought this would be a career ending injury for her but she wouldn’t hear any of that. As a pro athlete, Gretchen felt there was a way to get better.

When traditional eye exercises didn’t work, Gretchen and her team created their own program. The experimental technique combines ocular rehabilitation with high-intensity strength training and conditioning. Gretchen combined physical activity while focusing on a single point. Check out how Gretchen pushed herself and got back on a snowboard. She’s got her sights set on the Sochi Winter Olympics, which she says could be her last Games.


When doctors said she wouldn’t make a full recovery from a devastating eye injury, Gretchen Bleiler created an eye-strengthening training program that had never been done before and beat the odds.

Gretchen says, “I see the Olympics as this opportunity to get better, push harder and do things you never thought you could do.” We’re not all Olympic athletes but Gretchen’s story reminds us to never give up and keep pushing through adversity.

Follow Gretchen on twitter @GretchenBleiler and use #giveMestrength in your tweets to show your support. Props to Gretchen, Xgames.com and Muscle Milk for sharing this story.

Lead image compiled from Xgames.com video.



Kelly Clark Near Perfect in Win at Copper


Kelly Clark was back on the podium for the second weekend in a row only this time it was on top. Kelly crushed her first run at the U.S. Grand Prix at Copper Finals with a 95.5 score but it was her second run that reminded everyone why she’s an Olympic gold medalist. She didn’t sit back despite already being the winner. She improved her score to a 98.0 with a monster run full of tricks and was nearly perfect.

kelly clark wins

It was an American sweep in the Women’s Snowboarding Halfpipe with Ariell Gold second and Gretchen Bleiler third. The event served as a U.S. Olympic qualification. Ariell Gold was aggressive in the pipe and it earned her the runner-up position. Gretchen moved into the top three with a clean run that showed she’s deserved of another trip to the Olympics. Gretchen’s runs are flashy but they are technically sound and she gets solid air out of the pipe.

Kelly seemed much more confident in her approach on Saturday night than she had the week prior at the Dew Tour. Maybe it was performing under the lights which gives the event a much cooler atmosphere than during the day. When you see Kelly nail a 1080 you can’t help but be in awe of how amazingly talented these women are.

top three copper

U.S. Grand Prix Women’s Snowboarding Halfpipe Results:
1. Kelly Clark USA 98.00 (bib #1)
2. Arielle Gold USA 91.25 (bib #22)
3. Gretchen Bleiler USA 86.00 (bib #5)
4. Sophie Rodriguez FRA 85.00 (bib #25)
5. Kaitlyn Farrington USA 84.75 (bib #3)
6. Rana Okada JPN 82.00 (bib #35)
7. Xuetong Cai CHN 79.25 (bib #10)
8. Elena Hight USA 63.75 (bib #2)
9. Queralt Castellet SPA 78.25 (bib #4)
10. Ellery Hollingsworth USA 78.00 (bib #26)



Brita Sigourney Soars to Victory at Copper Grand Prix


Brita Sigourney stood on the podium for the second week in a row but this time as the winner. Last weekend in Breckenridge, Colorado Brita finished third at the Dew Tour. The Dew Tour was her first contest back after having knee and shoulder surgeries.

brita copper

On her second run under, Copper Mountain’s Friday Night Lights, Brita nailed a 86.60 score. The score put her in the winner’s circle once again. Second place went to Maddie Bowman with a scow of 83.20. The two are in the hunt to make the U.S. Olympic Team. Rounding out the top three was Marie Martinod from France.

winners-copperOn the Podium in Copper. 

FIS FREESTYLE SKI WORLD CUP 2014 RESULTS
Ladies’ Ski Halfpipe – Copper Mountain, CO (USA)

1. Brita Sigourney (Bib #6 – USA)
Run 1 – 85.00
Run 2 – 86.60

2. Maddie Bowman (Bib #5 – USA)
Run 1 – 83.20
Run 2 – 83.20

3. Marie Martinod (Bib #2 – FRA)
Run 1 – 78.80
Run 2 – 49.80

4. Devin Logan (Bib #4 – USA)
Run 1 – 76.80
Run 2 – 20.00

5. Annalisa Drew USA (Bib #8 – USA)
Run 1 – 72.00
Run 2 – 65.40

6. Anais Caradeux FRA (Bib #9 – FRA)
Run 1 – 69.80
Run 2 – 69.80

7. Ayana Onozuka (Bib #1 – JPN)
Run 1 – 69.20
Run 2 – 69.20

8. Angeli Vanlaanen (Bib #3 – USA)
Run 1 – 67.40
Run 2 – 67.40

9. Mirjam Jaeger (Bib #7 – SUI)
Run 1 – 66.20
Run 2 – 66.20

10. Rowan Cheshire (Bib #10 – GBR)
Run 1 – 64.80
Run 2 – 43.60

11. Katrien Aerts (Bib #12 – BEL)
Run 1 – 60.60
Run 2 – 23.80

12. Megan Gunning (Bib #11 – CAN)
Run 1 – 52.60
Run 2 – 11.40

flying-skierBrita Sigourney soars during the Friday Night Finals.

 View complete results from the event, including the men, here.

 



NIKE Unveils Team USA Winter Collection


The 2014 Winter Olympics are quickly approaching and today Nike unveiled the Team USA Winter Collection. Check out some of our favorite items in the gallery below and for the complete collection and information on all the items visit winter2014.nikeinc.com.  Stay updated on all the latest news related to the US Olympic Team on olympictalk.nbcsports.com.

team-usa-nike

What do you think of the winter apparel? Join the conversation on our Facebook page and share your thoughts.

Props to @heidiburgett / twitter.



Danica Patrick Bulks Up For Go Daddy


Danica Patrick has a new look and she hit the streets of Los Angeles, California to show it off. Danica was filming a new Super Bowl commercial for her sponsor, Go Daddy and boy did she bulk up!

danica patrick muscle

Ok, so she was wearing a fake muscle suit but it’s pretty amusing. Several bodybuilders, amateur and pro, can be seen running the streets along Danica’s side. Which is equally amusing as most bodybuilders rarely run.

We know Fitness Pro Oksana Grishina was on the set as she shared updates via her twitter account.


Nita Marquez also shared a behind-the-scenes photo of her on the set with Oksana.

See more photos of Danica running through the streets in her bodybuilding suit here.

Photo via dailymail.co.uk.



Live Happier, Have More Sex and Better Relationships


NEWS RELEASE
New Bodybuilding.com Study Finds People Who Successfully Complete Fitness Programs Say They Live Happier Lives, Have More Sex and Better Relationships

Finding the right motivation and participating in a fitness program such as the Bodybuilding.com $100,000 Transformation Challenge, presented by Dymatize, are keys to fitness success

live happier

BOISE, Idaho – As the New Year approaches, Americans who make resolutions to get fit can reap extra emotional and lifestyle benefits in addition to improving their health and appearance. According to a recent study conducted online by Harris Interactive on behalf of Bodybuilding.com – one of the world’s largest fitness resources – people say that successfully completing a fitness program helped them achieve more happiness, sex and better relationships, as well as the courage to try new things they may not have tried before.

“I didn’t anticipate how much better I would feel, the new friendships, and having so many people check in on me daily to see how my progress was going. Unwittingly, I have become a role model to a rather large number of people who know me.”

Of those who have successfully completed a weight loss or fitness program:
• 54% say they have become a happier person
• 21% say they have more sex
• 19% say they have improved relationships with family and friends
• 16% have better or new romantic relationships, and
• 15% say they have tried something they never thought they would do, such as scuba diving, skydiving, etc.

The study also revealed that finding the right motivation to finish a weight loss or fitness program is critical. According to the study, people who did not successfully complete their program cited the following reasons:

• 53% did not have the right motivation
• 23% had set goals too high
• 15% say it was too expensive
• 14% say the program was too difficult

To help people overcome these challenges, Bodybuilding.com is kicking off its free, annual $100,000 Transformation Challenge, which provides motivation – not only through a $50,000 cash prize each for one male and one female winner, but also through help and support from its online fitness community, BodySpace.

A separate survey of people who have participated in the Bodybuilding.com $100,000 Transformation Challenge in the past shows the program has a high rate of success. Ninety-eight percent of more than 100 past participants say they successfully completed the program, and 94 percent say they have been able to incorporate the principles into their daily lives, or have continued to strictly follow their program, versus 83 percent of online adults who have successfully completed some type of fitness program. Past Challenge participants also saw a higher rate of added benefits from completing their program, with 69 percent reporting they are happier, 35 percent reporting improved relationships with family and friends, and 28 percent saying they have more sex.

Registration for the international Challenge is open from Dec. 18, 2013 through Jan. 13, 2014, and then starting Jan. 13 participants have 12 weeks to complete their transformation. Registrants have access to a host of motivational tools and training tips including comprehensive fitness programs built by PhDs, celebrity and professional trainers, and athletes such as Jim Stoppani, Kris Gethin, Jamie Eason, Lee Labrada, and Ashley Conrad, who creates training programs for Bradley Cooper, Kate Hudson, P. Diddy and Penelope Cruz. Participants will also get weekly emails to help them stay motivated and on track, and can access free, up-to-date information on nutrition, workouts, motivation and supplementation on Bodybuilding.com.

Participants can also easily track their progress along the way using the free BodySpace app, which is available for both iOS and Android platforms.

In May 2014, two grand prize winners – one male and one female – will be chosen by a panel of Bodybuilding.com and Dymatize employees based on the most significant transformation and will each receive $50K in cash, as well as a year supply of Dymatize products (valued at $1,200). Weekly challenges announced via email will incentivize participants to continue on their transformation journey.

More than 27,000 people from 28 countries participated in the Challenge last year losing thousands of pounds and gaining lean muscle. People who sign up for the $100,000 Transformation Challenge will become members of BodySpace, the world’s largest health and fitness social network, which has more than 1.5 million members who connect with one another for motivation, tips, encouragement and advice.

Kevin Gore, a runner-up in Bodybuilding.com’s 2013 $100K Challenge, decided to enter the program at age 50 to become a good role model to his two sons and a husband that his wife would be proud of. According to Gore, “I didn’t anticipate how much better I would feel, the new friendships, and having so many people check in on me daily to see how my progress was going. Unwittingly, I have become a role model to a rather large number of people who know me.”

For more details and official rules for the Bodybuilding.com 2014 $100,000 Transformation Challenge sponsored by Dymatize Nutrition, visit http://www.bodybuilding.com/100k.

bodybuilding info graphic

Methodology
This survey was conducted online within the United States by Harris Interactive on behalf of Bodybuilding.com from November 19-21, 2013 among 2,082 adults ages 18 and older. This online survey is not based on a probability sample and therefore no estimate of theoretical sampling error can be calculated.

For complete survey methodology from the Harris Interactive survey, including weighting variables, or the separate, independent study of Bodybuilding.com Challenge participants, please contact Jill Petersen at 206-683-5225.

About Bodybuilding.com
Bodybuilding.com offers more than 11,500 health and fitness supplements and accessories to help over 26 million people every month achieve their health, fitness, and appearance goals. This online powerhouse gives users more than 35,000 pages of FREE information, including more than 25,000 articles and 10,000 videos, expert online trainers, and new content added daily.

News Release and Infographic via businesswire.com.

 



Expendable 3 Teaser


The Expendables is scheduled to be released this Summer and UFC champ, Ronda Rousey has a spot in the action packed flick. Check out the first teaser from Lionsgate and Millennium Films.

expendable 3 movie

The 411 via Youtube:

In THE EXPENDABLES 3, Barney (Stallone), Christmas (Statham) and the rest of the team comes face-to-face with Conrad Stonebanks (Gibson), who years ago co-founded The Expendables with Barney. Stonebanks subsequently became a ruthless arms trader and someone who Barney was forced to kill… or so he thought. In order to defeat Stonebanks, Barney decides that he has to fight old blood with new blood, and brings in a new era of Expendables team members, recruiting individuals who are younger, faster and more tech-savvy. The latest mission becomes a clash of classic old-school style versus high-tech expertise in the Expendables’ most personal battle yet.

Starring:
STALLONE
STATHAM
BANDERAS
LI
SNIPES
LUNDGREN
GRAMMER
CREWS
COUTURE
LUTZ
ROUSEY
POWELL
ORTIZ
with GIBSON
with FORD
and SCHWARZENEGGER

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Expendables-3/362028440564942
http://twitter.com/expendables3



PRESS RELEASE: 2014 Arnold Classic Field Announced


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 19, 2013
2014 Arnold Sports Festival

Rhoden, Martinez, Curry Highlight 2014 Arnold Classic Field
COLUMBUS, Ohio – Shawn Rhoden, Victor Martinez and Brandon Curry, who have each won an Arnold Classic international title in the past three years, lead a deep field of 13 men’s professional bodybuilders who will battle in the 2014 Arnold Classic, the Arnold Sports Festival announced today.

The Arnold Sports Festival and the IFBB Pro League today announced the invited athletes who will compete in the Arnold Classic, Arnold Classic 212, Fitness International, Figure International and Bikini International contests Feb. 28 & March 1 at the 2014 Arnold Sports Festival.

arnold competitors

Rhoden, 2012 Arnold Classic Europe champ, and Martinez, who won the Arnold Classic in 2007 and the inaugural Arnold Classic Europe in 2011, will lead a field that also includes two-time Arnold Classic winner Branch Warren, Cedric MacMillan and Dennis Wolf. Curry won the inaugural Arnold Classic Brasil in April. Ben Pakulski, second in the Arnold Classic in 2013, and Toney Freeman, third last year, will also compete. Defending champ and four-time winner Dexter Jackson will not compete.

Flex Lewis, David Henry and Tricky Jackson headline a field of 10 in the first-ever Arnold Classic 212 contest. Arnold Classic 212 competitor Quincy Winklaar is the brother of Roelly Winklaar, who will compete in the Arnold Classic.

In the Fitness International, defending champion Tanji Johnson, Oksana Grishina, second in 2013, and Bethany Cisternino, third last year, headline a field of 15. Johnson, who won the Arnold Fitness Europe in 2011 and 2013, has won seven professional titles in the past 12 years. In the Figure International, defending champion Candice Keene and three-time winner Nicole Wilkins top the field of 17. Heather Dees, second in 2013, is also expected to challenge for the title. Wilkins, who won in 2010, 2011 and 2012, will try to win a record fourth title. Wilkins did not compete in Columbus in 2013.

India Paulino will try to become the first repeat winner of the Bikini International, which has had three champions in three years since it was founded in 2011. Nathalia Melo, second in 2013; Ashley Kaltwasser, Bikini Olympia winner in 2013 and a former Arnold Amateur champion; and Amanda Latona also highlight a field of 16. Anna Starodubtseva earned an automatic invite into the Bikini International after winning the overall bikini title at the 2013 Arnold Amateur IFBB/NPC Bodybuilding, Fitness, Figure & Bikini Championships.

The Arnold Classic 212, Fitness International, and Figure International will be held on Friday, February 28. Prejudging will take place at the Greater Columbus Convention Center and Finals will be at Veterans Memorial. Prejudging and Finals for the Arnold Classic and Bikini International, and final event for the Arnold Strongman will be held on Saturday, March 1 at Veterans Memorial.

2014 Arnold Classic, Arnold Classic 212, Fitness International, Figure International and Bikini International Official Invite Lists:

Arnold Classic (13)
Evan Centopani
Brandon Curry
Toney Freeman
Cedric MacMillan
Victor Martinez
Edward Nunn
Ben Pakulski
Shawn Rhoden
Fred Smalls
Branch Warren
Roelly Winklaar
Dennis Wolf
Hidetada Yamagish

Arnold Classic 212 (10)
Aaron Clark
Charles Dixon
David Henry
Richard “Tricky” Jackson
James “Flex” Lewis
Stan McQuay
Jose Raymond
Marco Rivera
Angel Rangel Vargas
Quincy Winklaar

Fitness International (15)

Michelle Blank
Myriam Capes
Bethany Cisternino
Regiane DaSilva
Allison Ethier
Ryall Graber
Oksana Grishina
Amanda Hatfield
Tanji Johnson
Whitney Jones
Babette Mulford
Danielle Ruban
Kizzy Vaines
Trish Warren
Melinda Szabo

Figure International (17)

Kati Alander
Dana Ambrose
Alicia Coates
Ava Cowan
Heather Dees
Amanda Doherty
Allison Frahn
Candice Keene
Candice Lewis
Elissa Martis
Larissa Reis
Camala Rodriguez-McClure
Giadi Simari
Gennifer Strobo
Ann Titone
Natalie Waples
Nicole Wilkins



Bikini International (16)
Noy Alexander
Stacey Alexander
Jennifer Andrews
Juliana Daniell
Margret Gnarr
Ashley Kaltwasser
Courtney King
Amanda Latona
Janet Layug
Nathalia Melo
Jessica Mone
Justine Munro
India Paulino
Yeshaira Robles
Anna Starodubtseva
Anna Virmajoki

The 26th Anniversary Annual Arnold Classic, Arnold Classic 212, Fitness International, Figure International and Bikini International contests will be held Feb. 28 – March 1, 2014 at Veterans Memorial and the Greater Columbus Convention Center in Columbus, Ohio. Visit www.ticketmaster.com/arnold or 800-745-3000 for ticket information. VIP Ticket Packages and individual event tickets are available. Daily EXPO tickets are available for $10 in advance (plus service charge) or $15 at the door of all Arnold Sports Festival venues. Children 10 and under free.

Presenting Sponsor: Europa Sports Products

Diamond Sponsors: Hollywood Casino Columbus, MHP, Muscle Pharm.

Gold Sponsors: Animal, bpi Sports, BSN, EAS Abbott Nutrition, Bodybuilding.com, Gaspari Nutrition, Gasp & Better Bodies, Optimum Nutrition

Silver Sponsors: 4 Dimension Nutrition, 6 Pack Fitness, ABB, AEP, American Airlines, BEAST, Body Fortress, Cellucor, Cytosport, Flexicus.com, GAT/World Health Products, Jan Tana, MET-RX, MuscleTech, Nutrex Research, Oh Yeah! Nutrition, ProMera Sports, Pure Protein, Quest Nutrition, Ricart.com, Rogue Fitness,VPX

Bronze Sponsors: Active Interest Media, Blender Bottle, Champion Energy, Fitmark, Gear, GT Nutrition, iSatori, Inc., Liftag Sport, Lone Star, MRI, MRM, Mutant, N.V.E. Pharmaceuticals, Nationwide Reality, Power Crunch, Probiotica Lab, Rightway Nutrition, Rivalus Inc., Scivation, Smartshake

For more information, including schedules, locations and hours, visit www.arnoldsportsfestival.com.



2014 Arnold Competitors Lists & Early Show Preview


One of the few IFBB events that are by invite only has become one of the most prestigious events of the year. The 26th Annual Arnold Classic will be held Feb. 28 – March 1, 2014. New this year will be the Arnold Classic 212 division. Absent from the line-up will be the Ms. International. The fields in the Fitness, Figure and Bikini International contests are some of the strongest you’ll see all year.

arnold competitors
Leading the way in Fitness is defending champion, Tanji Johnson. She’ll look to fend off top contenders like Oksana Grishina and Bethany Cisternino. One of Canada’s brightest Fitness Stars, Myriam Capes will also be back looking to take top honors. The all-time winningest fitness pro, Adela Garcia will not be in the line-up for the second year in a row.

Nicole Wilkins is back after sitting out the Figure International. She’ll look to reclaim the title currently held by Candice Keene. Look for Keene and Wilkins to be your front-runners in the event. Heather Dees, Camala Rodriquez and Ann Titone will also be strong contenders for the top five. Keep an eye on newcomers Alicia Coates who won her first two pro shows and the NPC National Figure Champ, Elissa Martis. Fan favorites, Larissa Reis and Ava Cowan will look to get back into the top spots. Mallory Haldeman and Erin Stern both finished in the top six last year however opted out of the show this year.

The leading ladies from the Bikini Olympia will be on stage in Columbus and good luck trying to predict who will win this one. Ashley Kaltwasser was tenth at this show last year but finished the year the new Olympia champion. Yeshaira Robles and Stacey Alexander had their best finishes in Vegas by going second and third and will look to be in the mix again at this event. Juliana Daniell has one the the most athletic physiques and returns to the stage after sitting out last year. Look for her to mix things up in the top spots. Courtney King will make a run at the top five in her Arnold debut. The champ, India Paulino is back to defend her title but as you can see will have her work cut out for her to hold onto the crown. Nathalia Melo is on the path to redemption after finishing second here last year and going the year without a win. Look for her to be at her all-time best. Amanda Latona will try to shake things up in the top spots along with seasoned vet Jessica Mone (formerly Paxson). Janet Layug will be making her pro debut and talk about jumping into the deep end of the pro pool. Will see if she sinks or swims with this line-up. Of course you can’t count out Canada’s Justine Munro who has come into her own the last year and a half.

If you’re a gambler, don’t bet on Bikini. The only sure thing is that you’ll lose trying to predict the top spots in order on that one.

The Men’s line up is stacked this year with Shawn “Flexatron” Rhoden, Victor Martinez, Brandon Curry, Roelly Winklaar, Dennis Wolf and others. The 212 Arnold Classic will likely end up being a duel between Olympia champ Flex Lewis and runner-up David Henry. Jose Raymond will look to get back into the top spots after finishing the season on a low note.

Congratulations to all who were selected and best of luck in your prep. It’s never easy dieting through the holidays and in the winter months but the sacrifice will be worth it if you’re the one shaking Arnold’s hand after a victory.



Fitness International (15)
Michelle Blank
Myriam Capes
Bethany Cisternino
Regiane DaSilva
Allison Ethier
Ryall Graber
Oksana Grishina
Amanda Hatfield
Tanji Johnson
Whitney Jones
Babette Mulford
Danielle Ruban
Kizzy Vaines
Trish Warren
Melinda Szabo



Figure International (17)
Kati Alander
Dana Ambrose
Alicia Coates
Ava Cowan
Heather Dees
Amanda Doherty
Allison Frahn
Candice Keene
Candice Lewis
Elissa Martis
Larissa Reis
Camala Rodriguez-McClure
Giadi Simari
Gennifer Strobo
Ann Titone
Natalie Waples
Nicole Wilkins



Bikini International (16)
Noy Alexander
Stacey Alexander
Jennifer Andrews
Juliana Daniell
Margret Gnarr
Ashley Kaltwasser
Courtney King
Amanda Latona
Janet Layug
Nathalia Melo
Jessica Mone
Justine Munro
India Paulino
Yeshaira Robles
Anna Starodubtseva
Anna Virmajoki

Arnold Classic (13)
Evan Centopani
Brandon Curry
Toney Freeman
Cedric MacMillan
Victor Martinez
Edward Nunn
Ben Pakulski
Shawn Rhoden
Fred Smalls
Branch Warren
Roelly Winklaar
Dennis Wolf
Hidetada Yamagish

Arnold Classic 212 (10)
Aaron Clark
Charles Dixon
David Henry
Richard “Tricky” Jackson
James “Flex” Lewis
Stan McQuay
Jose Raymond
Marco Rivera
Angel Rangel Vargas
Quincy Winklaar

The events will take place at Veteran Memorial and the Greater Columbus Convention Center in Columbus, Ohio. Visit www.ticketmaster.com/arnold or 800-745-3000 for ticket information.VIP Ticket Packages and individual event tickets are available. Daily EXPO tickets are available for $10 in advance (plus service charge) or $15 at the door of all Arnold Sports Festival venues. Children 10 and under free.

Follow us on twitter with current updates and when mentioning the 2014 Arnold use the hashtag #asf2014. Check out @arnoldsports on twitter as well.



FDA Proposed Rule for Antibacterial Soaps


FDA NEWS RELEASE

FDA issues proposed rule to determine safety and effectiveness of antibacterial soaps


The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today issued a proposed rule to require manufacturers of antibacterial hand soaps and body washes to demonstrate that their products are safe for long-term daily use and more effective than plain soap and water in preventing illness and the spread of certain infections. Under the proposal, if companies do not demonstrate such safety and effectiveness, these products would need to be reformulated or relabeled to remain on the market.

Today’s action is part of a larger, ongoing review of antibacterial active ingredients by the FDA to ensure these ingredients are proven to be safe and effective. This proposed rule does not affect hand sanitizers, wipes, or antibacterial products used in health care settings.
Millions of Americans use antibacterial hand soap and body wash products. Although consumers generally view these products as effective tools to help prevent the spread of germs, there is currently no evidence that they are any more effective at preventing illness than washing with plain soap and water. Further, some data suggest that long-term exposure to certain active ingredients used in antibacterial products—for example, triclosan (liquid soaps) and triclocarban (bar soaps)—could pose health risks, such as bacterial resistance or hormonal effects.
“Antibacterial soaps and body washes are used widely and frequently by consumers in everyday home, work, school, and public settings, where the risk of infection is relatively low,” said Janet Woodcock, M.D., director of the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER). “Due to consumers’ extensive exposure to the ingredients in antibacterial soaps, we believe there should be a clearly demonstrated benefit from using antibacterial soap to balance any potential risk.”
The widespread consumer use of antibacterial products, the accumulated scientific information and concerns raised by health care and consumer groups have prompted the FDA to reevaluate what data are needed to classify the active ingredients in consumer antibacterial products as “generally recognized as safe and effective” or GRASE.  Under the proposed rule, manufacturers who want to continue marketing antibacterial products will be required to provide the agency with additional data on the products’ safety and effectiveness, including data from clinical studies to demonstrate that these products are superior to non-antibacterial soaps in preventing human illness or reducing infection.
“While the FDA continues to collect additional information on antibacterial hand soaps and body washes, we encourage consumers to make an educated choice about what products they choose to use,” said Sandra Kweder, M.D., deputy director, Office of New Drugs at CDER. “Washing with plain soap and running water is one of the most important steps consumers can take to avoid getting sick and to prevent spreading germs to others.”
Consumers should continue to be diligent about washing their hands. If soap and water are not available, an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol should be used.  More information on appropriate hand washing from the CDC may be found here.
Almost all soaps labeled “antibacterial” or “antimicrobial” contain at least one of the antibacterial ingredients addressed in the proposed rule. The most common active ingredients in antibacterial soaps are triclosan and triclocarban. Some soaps labeled “deodorant” may also contain these ingredients.
The proposed rule does not require the antibacterial soap products to be removed from the market at this time. When the proposed rule is finalized, as previously stated, either companies will have provided data to support an antibacterial claim, or if not, they will have to reformulate (remove antibacterial active ingredients) or relabel (remove the antibacterial claim from the product’s labeling) these products in order to continue marketing. The proposed rule is available for public comment for 180 days, with a concurrent one year period for companies to submit new data and information, followed by a 60-day rebuttal comment period.
For more information:
The FDA, an agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, protects the public health by helping to ensure the safety, effectiveness, and security of human and veterinary drugs, vaccines and other biological products for human use, and medical devices. The agency also is responsible for helping to ensure the safety and security of our nation’s food supply, cosmetics, dietary supplements, products that give off electronic radiation, and for regulating tobacco products.


Hardbody Photo of The Day: Juliana Daniell – Fitness Motivation


Juliana Daniell is athlete in our Hardbody Photo of The Day. Juliana has been a seen motivating crowds at Atlanta Thrashers, Atlanta Braves and currently Atlana Hawks games. She’s been an NBA cheerleader for the past three years and is currently a spokesmodel for Falken Tires. This IFBB Pro has seen the inside of numerous fitness magazines and multiple covers.

juliana Daniell

She didn’t compete in the IFBB this year but look for her to make a return in 2014. Juliana’s athletic physique comes from years of swimming and eating sensible meals, despite being tempted by Southern fried cooking. She competed at the 2012 Bikini Olympia and shared her “juggling act” with us en route to the big show.

Juliana reminds us all of one simple task. BE BETTER THAN YESTERDAY. Follow her on twitter @julianaDaniell and on Facebook.

fitness motivation



Video: Battle of the Moms


Love your body. Something we can all agree on, right? We like to think so. Two mothers, both with three children, are taking to the internet to get their message across but in different ways. One mother in Australia posted her post-baby photos to show a “more realistic” look to her body after Maria Kang made headlines over a photo.

mom battle

Maria posted a photo with her and her three children that simply said, “What’s Your Excuse.” It was simply an attempt to inspire other women but she received numerous negative comments and claims that she was “shaming” other mothers to look a certain way.

“Health is not dictated by someone’s look, their size or their weight,” say the Aussie mother and we can certainly agree with that but why is one mother right and the other is wrong?

You can love your body before and after.

Reporter: Her photos are drawing comparisons to maria kang, the mom of three, whose what’s your excuse photo caption, led to a firestorm of reactions, with many accusing her of fat shaming. I’m not a bully.

Reporter: She is now speaking out against kang, saying these ideals are unrealistic and unhealthy. And wants to encourage women to love their bodies at any size. Health is not dictated by someone’s looks, their size or their weight.

But kang says she is simply a healthy mom, trying to be a positive role model. Is there a right or wrong answer in this great mom debate? We have to be careful in our society not to characterize something as normal or not normal.

ABCnews.com



BUTI Fitness Workout Gets Weird


Chalk this one up to the Wednesday Weird Files. This is definitely not your typical workout but hey if it works who are we do judge, right? See how long you can make it through this video before you start saying things at your computer or have to turn it off. If you actually do this workout, then let us know because we’d love to know how it went for you.

BUTI Fitness workout inspired by Good Earth Tea’s signature Sweet and Spicy blend.
A workout like no other – for a tea that has no equal.
Youtube.com



Hardbody Photo of The Day: Nicole Wilkins “Do Your Best”


Three-time Figure Olympia Champion Nicole Wilkins is the subject of our Hardbody Photo of the Day. Nicole had her ups and downs this year but no matter what she was faced with she persevered. A great reminder for all of us… Don’t Stress. Do Your Best. Forget The Rest.

handstand

Follow Nicole on Twitter at @NicoleMWilkins and on her Facebook Fan Page. Think Nicole was one of the Top Ten IFBB Pros of the year? Check out our poll and cast your vote for her.

nicole wilkins



Elena’s “Hight Hopes” Journey to the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics


Professional snowboarder and 2-time Olympian, Elena Hight is one of the elite women in snow sports. She made history earlier this year at the Winter X Games when she landed the first-ever double backside alley-oop rodeo in a half pipe competition. She was the first (male or female) to land the trick and forever cemented her name in history.

elena hight

She’s seen the podium a number of times over the years and now she has her sights set on the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics. Elena has a new web series, “Hight Hopes”, that will document her journey to the Winter Games. The first episode was released earlier this month and the next one is slated to launch next week.

Via YouTube:
Chapter 1 – Preparation: Professional snowboarder Elena Hight takes you through her offseason training in Oregon and New Zealand, visits Mammoth Mountain for opening weekend and prepares for the first halfpipe contest of the year!

“Hight Hopes” exposes Elena’s true path to the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics. Spoken through her own words, Elena brings you through pressure packed qualifying and the highs and lows of achieving goals while progressing the sport.

Join my crew & earn your chance to win awesome prizes! http://elenahightcrew.com

Follow Elena:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ElenaHightSnowboarder
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Elenahight
Instagram: http://instagram.com/elenahight



Hardbody Poll – Who Are The Top Ten IFBB Pro Women of 2013?


The 2013 IFBB competitive season has come to an end and we need your help in determining who made the biggest impact. There were a number women who made an their presence known in the IFBB Pro ranks and could make a case for being on the our Top Ten list. We’ve narrowed down the lists by division. Cast your vote, one for each division. We’ll compile the votes and come up with our final top 10 list. Did we leave someone off? If you think we did mention them in the final poll below.

top ifbb pros of 2013

FITNESS

Tanji Johnson – Tanji won the Fitness International in Columbus and followed it up with another win at the Arnold Europe.
#TeamTanji

Adela Garcia – Adela sat out the Fitness International but won the Fitness Olympia once again. She continues to be the all-time fitness queen in Olympia victories.
#TeamAdela

Ryall Graber-Vasani – Ryall won not only the inaugural Arnold Brazil Fitness event but also took top honors at the Toronto Super Show.
#TeamRyall

Oksana Grishina – Oksana Grishina continues to be a fan favorite and moved up into the runner-up position at this year’s Olympia, her highest finish at the event. She ended the year with a win at the Phoenix Pro.
#TeamOksana

Michelle Blank – Michelle took top honors at the Tampa Pro Fitness and made her presence known after returning from an injury.
#teamBlank

{democracy:261}

FIGURE

Candice Keene – Candice had a break out year in Figure. She won the Figure International to start the year off and followed it up with wins in Australia and New York.
#TeamKeene

Nicole Wilkins – Nicole Wilkins sat out the Figure International and was less than her best at the New York Pro where she finished third. Just when many were counting her out, she transformed her physique and returned to the top spot by winning the Figure Olympia.
#TeamNicole

Erin Stern – Erin Stern slipped to third at the Figure International but won the Sarasota Pro. She was turn for turn with Wilkins at the Olympia but was relegated to the runner-up spot.
#TeamStern

Heather Dees – Heather started the year off with a second place finish at the Figure International and followed it up with a win in Sacramento. She continues to be a threat to the top five in every show she enters.
#TeamDees

Mallory Haldeman – Mallory started the year off with a fifth place finish at the Figure International but won not only the Tampa Pro but also the Tahoe Pro. She finished out the year with a fifth place finish at the Olympia.
#teamMallory

{democracy:262}

WOMEN’S BODYBUILDING

Iris Kyle – Iris continues to be the most dominate female bodybuilder of all-time. She won what appears to the the last Ms. International and followed it up with a record 9th Olympia victory.
#TeamIris

Alina Popa – Alina sat out the Arnold and came back to push Iris to the wire at the Olympia. It was the best she’s ever looked and many wouldn’t have argued had she taken the top spot at the Ms. Olympia event.
#TeamAlina

{democracy:263}

WOMEN’S PHYSIQUE

Dana Linn Bailey – Dana, or DLB as she’s known in the industry, returned to the stage after many thought she hung up the posing suit for good. She was the runner-up at the Tampa Pro and followed it up with a victory in Dallas. She went on to become the first winner of the Olympia Physique showdown.
#TeamDLB

Sara Hurrle – Sara won the inaugural Mile High title and followed it up with a third place finish at the Olympia. She continues to be a contender in every Women’s Physique show she enters.
#TeamHurrle

Toni West – Toni took top honors at the Toronto Pro show and went on to finish 4th at the Olympia. Many feel Toni has what it takes to be the champ in the division.
#TeamToni

Tycie Coppett – Tycie won the Greater Gulf States and took that momentum to Vegas where she finished in second behind DLB. Tycie also has the physique to be a top contender in ever show she enters.
#TeamTycie

Patricia Mello – Patricia started the year off where she left off in 2012, the winner’s circle. She won Los Angeles Grand Prix and also the Orlando Pro. She finished the year in fifth place at the Olympia.
#teamPatricia

{democracy:264}

BIKINI

Ashley Kaltwasser – Ashley started the year off with a 10th place finish at the Bikini International. She bounced back, collected a few first place titles along the way before becoming the Bikini Olympia Champion. She finished the year off with a win at the Sheru Classic in India.
#teamAshley

India Paulino – India Paulino started the year with a win at the Bikini International and followed it up with another victor in Australia. Many thought she was poised to win the Olympia however she dropped to fifth at the event.
#teamIndia

Yeshaira Robles – Yeshaira had a break out year with victories in Pittsburgh, New York and finished in the runner-up position at the Olympia.
#teamYeshaira

Amanda Latona – Amanda won the Greater Gulf States title in June. She finished in 6th place at the Olympia and went on to win the Sacramento Pro to close out the year.
#teamLatona

Nathalia Melo – Nathalia was the runner-up at the Arnold and in Australia. She closed out the year with a fourth place finish at the Olympia. Despite not winning a show in 2013, Nathalia continues to be a fan favorite wherever she goes.
#TeamNat

Courtney King – Courtney took top honors at the Orlando Pro and the Tampa Pro. She closed out the year with a top ten finish in her first Olympia. She was named “rookie of the year” by FLEX magazine.
#teamCourt

{democracy:265}

FAN WRITE-IN 

Who did we miss? Write in your pick for a top IFBB PRO below.

{democracy:266}

Share the poll with your friends on Facebook, twitter and Instagram. Let them know who to vote for by using the # shown after every competitor above. If you wrote in someone’s name put #andTheirName in your social media posts. Join the conversation on our Facebook page and comment on who you think should be at the top of the list and why.



Yahoo and NBC Partner on 2014 Winter Olympics


The 2014 Winter Olympics will take place next year in in Sochi, Russia. Yahoo announced they have formed an alliance with NBC to broadcast some of the action online. Ken Fuchs, VP Yahoo Sports and Yahoo Games, shared…

Yahoo and NBC Olympics Extend Digital Alliance to the 2014 Winter Olympic Games
With the XXII Olympic Winter Games from Sochi peeking at us from around the corner, we are proud to announce an extension of our existing digital alliance with NBC Sports. At Yahoo we love the Olympics – new heroes, amazing stories, and memorable moments can rise up in the blink an eye and last in Olympics lore forever – and we love to bring you closer to those athletes, moments and stories. And now working together with NBC Sports, we can do even more to bring the Games to life for you.

The alliance focuses on access for Yahoo’s audience to all of NBCOlympics.com’s exclusive digital video rights, including live competition streams and highlights, the creation of a digital Olympics daily show, and the showcase of Yahoo products through NBC’s digital and broadcast coverage of the Games.

Bringing together Yahoo and NBC Olympics for the XXII Winter Games will give fans a deep and rich experience around one of the premier sports events in the world. For the first time, our audience can watch everything unfold on the live and on-demand NBC Olympics experience from Yahoo.

As part of the agreement, Yahoo Sports experts will work alongside with NBC Sports and contribute Olympic news and analysis for digital segments that will be promoted to both NBCOlympics.com and Yahoo users. In addition, NBC Olympics and Yahoo will integrate Yahoo content and products into NBC’s broadcast of the Games – such as Yahoo Search, Flickr and Tumblr – to tap into the pulse of the American Olympic fan during the Sochi Games.

This exclusive Olympics-focused arrangement is yet another step in our one-year old relationship that has included collaboration around premium sports news and events coverage, online and on-air; creation of original, short form video programming as well as cross-promotion of popular Yahoo Sports’ products, including Yahoo Sports Fantasy and Rivals.com.

That’s it for now, but keep coming back to Yahoo Sports and our Tumblr, we have some incredible coverage planned for an incredible year… let the Games begin!

By Ken Fuchs, VP Yahoo Sports and Yahoo Games



Hardbody Photo of The Day: Kelly Clark Flying High at the Dew Tour


Professional Snowboarder Kelly Clark is a small town girl with big time accomplishments. She won the 2002 Olympic Gold Medal in Women’s Halfpipe and continues to be a dominate athlete over a decade later. Kelly has her own foundation, appropriately named the Kelly Clark Foundation, that aims to provide others with the opportunities to achieve their dreams. She’s the feature of today’s Hardbody Photo of The Day.

kelly-clark-foundation

Kelly was the runner-up in the Women’s Superpipe at the 2013 Dew Tour and has her sights set on the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics. For more information on Kelly’s Foundation visit kellyclarkfoundation.org. You can keep up with Kelly on twitter and follow her on Facebook. She also keeps fans in the loop with what’s she up to on her instagram account.

kelly clark dew tourClick for larger view. Photo by Isaac Hinds



Ana Delia Joins Team Pomera Sports


We’ve told you about the stunning Puerto Rican competitor, Ana Delia De Iturrondo years ago and finally companies are taking notice. Ana was the 2012 FLEX Bikini Model Search winner and has graced the covers of numerous magazines. She achieved IFBB Pro status earlier this year but Ana has what few fitness competitors do… the ability to model. Long before she stepped on the competition stage, she was a full-time model and it shows in her images.

ana delia model

Ana recently shared the news that she is now part of Team Promera Sports. You can count on seeing Ana at upcoming fitness expos with the company and don’t be surprised if you see her on a few more magazine covers in 2014. Congratulations Ana and bravo to Promera Sports on signing a talented woman.

Ana wrote, “I’m very excited to announce that I’m officially a member of Team Promera Sports!!! Thanks to the team and staff for this lovely welcome 😀 Stay tuned to my page for great surprises coming soon. Thanks to you my fans for your unconditional support without you this wouldn’t be possible and to everyone who in any little way contributed to make another one of my dreams come true…a BIG Thank you from the bottom of my heart and blessings to you all!”

Ana’s Contest History:
• 2013 NPC Team Universe Championships: Bikini C Winner earned PRO status!!! 😀

• 2013 NPC Jr Nationals (Nationals): 9th place

• 2013 NPC Pittsburgh Pro(National Qualifier): 5th place

• 2012 NPC South Beach Classic (National Qualifier): Bikini B Winner

• 2012 Olympia Flex Model Search Contest: Winner

• 2012 Month 3 Flex Model Search Online: Winner

• Ocean Drive Puerto Rico Summer Girls search: Winner

• 2012 NPC/IFBB Pittsburgh Pro (National Qualifier): 6th Place

• 2012 NPC NY Metropolitan (National Qualifier): 2nd Place

• 2011 NPC Eastern USA (National qualifier): 2nd Place

• 2011 NPC Team Universe (Nationals): 4th Place

• 2011 NPC NY Metropolitan (National qualifier): 2nd Place

Follow Ana on Facebook and on Twitter.

Check out Promera Sports’ products.

fitness motivation



Invicta Fighting Championships Names Julie Kedzie New Matchmaker


PRESS RELEASE

INVICTA FC NAMES WOMEN’S MMA PIONEER JULIE KEDZIE NEW MATCHMAKER
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (Dec. 16, 2013) – Invicta Fighting Championships has appointed recently retired women’s Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) superstar Julie Kedzie as the new matchmaker for the women’s world championship MMA promotion, it was announced today on an all-new edition of “The MMA Hour” web TV program by award-winning host Ariel Helwani
.
Kedzie will simultaneously continue to serve as color commentator for Invicta FC television broadcasts, a role that she has played for the promotion since the inaugural Invicta FC live event in April 2012.

“I am excited about this incredible new opportunity that will allow me to remain as active and hands on as ever in contributing to the growth of women’s competition in our great sport,” said Kedzie, a protégé of MMA guru Greg Jackson who retired from competition earlier this month following her 29th professional career bout at UFC Fight Night 33.

“(Invicta FC President) Shannon Knapp has done an unbelievable job at pushing the envelope and helping transform women’s MMA into an aggressively expanding enterprise,” continued Kedzie, “a development that will undoubtedly lead to increased participation in the sport by young women athletes who want to challenge themselves in the world’s fastest growing sport.”

“We are thrilled to expand Julie’s role in the Invicta FC organization and have one of the pioneers of our sport assume the pivotal role of matchmaker under her wing,” said Knapp. “There is no one more qualified than someone like Julie, who has lived and breathed MMA for the last 10 years, to take on the responsibility of nurturing our athletes, building our roster and creating the most exciting matchups possible for our live event series.”

Invicta FC rolled out its final live event of the year on Dec. 7, an explosive, live Pay-Per-View televised world championship doubleheader that saw Barb “Lil’ Warrior” Honchak (9-2) successfully defend her strawweight (125 pounds) title against Leslie “The Peacemaker” Smith (6-4-1) in the main event that was also named “Fight of the Night.”

In the eight-bout card’s co-main event, Lauren Murphy (8-0) extended her perfect record and retained her bantamweight (135 pounds), defeating Miriam “The Queen of Mean” Nakamoto (2-1) by way of TKO (knee injury) in the fourth round (:23).

About Invicta Fighting Championships:
Invicta Fighting Championships (www.invictafc.com) is a world championship Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fight series dedicated to providing female athletes with a major platform to hone their skills on a consistent basis. Founded in 2012 by longtime MMA executive Shannon Knapp and sports aficionado Janet Martin, Invicta is committed to pioneering the future growth of women’s MMA by promoting the best possible matchups between female competitors and identifying and developing future superstars of the sport.



“Thank You, Mom” – Raising an Olympian: Lindsey Vonn


Top U.S. Olympic Skier, Lindsey Vonn is one of the featured athletes in Proctor & Gamble’s latest “Thank You, Mom” campaign. You might recall seeing this campaign around the 2012 Summer Olympics. It’s a feel good spot that focuses on Olympic athletes and their moms. Lindsey’s mom reminds us all to “be tough” no matter what is thrown at you.

raising an olympian

You may not always win but if you’re willing to work hard and stay positive you can achieve your goals. If Mom wasn’t there, they wouldn’t be here. Watch the story of U.S. Olympic Gold Medalist Lindsey Vonn and her mother, Lindy.

“I fall, I get back up,” Lindsey told the TODAY show in an interview. Will you get back up when you fall? It’s your choice.

lead image via Youtube.



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