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The National Dog Show & A Bodybuilding Show… They’re Not That Different.

November 28, 2014 by

National Dog show

The Olympia is often referred to as the “Super Bowl” of bodybuilding and fitness. It showcases “the best of the best” in professional physique competition. Hundreds of pro competitors attempt to qualify for the event each year but few make it to the grand stage. Those who do make it to the Olympia stage often refer to it as one of, if not thee, highlight of their competitive career.

Countless sacrifices go into preparing for any competition  but the stakes are always higher at the Olympia. The total prize money (between all divisions) totaled over one million dollars. As you can imagine with that kind of cash on the line, the participants are laser focused heading into the event. While you’re out partying on a Friday night, Olympia competitors are hitting the gym or cooking their meals for the next day. When friends and family are having a beer at a wedding, they’re reaching for a jug of water. Cake? Forget about having any of that en route to the big dance. It requires extreme dedication, discipline and passion to compete at the Olympia level. Just ask anyone who has been on there and they’ll tell you what they gave up to pursue their passion.

A competitor’s nerves are higher and the pressure is on at the Olympia. It is at every competition but this event draws the attention of thousands across the world. They’ll be subjected to not only the judges’ opinions but also the media and fans. The event is shown live and free on bodybuilding.com but this year’s Olympia, the monumental 50th anniversary, was to be different. In addition to the live online stream it was going to be shown on the NBC Sports Network. It would mark the return of bodybuilding to television, something that hadn’t happened since 1984.

David J. Pecker, American Media Inc.(AMI) Chairman, President and CEO said in the June press release, “The Olympia Weekend is an extraordinary event that underscores the passion and commitment that every competitor brings to the stage, and the exhilaration of the more than forty thousand spectators that will attend this year’s event.”

NBC Sports Network (NBCSN) was to televise two 90-minute specials around the event in October. When people tuned into NBCSN on October 18th and again on October 25th they expected to see the Olympia. Instead viewers saw soccer or a car show during that time. On October 18th, fans were confused and inquired about it online. They thought maybe there was a scheduling change and/or they had the wrong time. When October 25th came and went with no Olympia broadcast on TV, fans went from confused to angry and pissed.

What happened to the Olympia and the broadcast not airing? It’s disappointing that this extraordinary event didn’t see the light of day on television. We’re all left in the dark as to why the historic 50th Olympia wasn’t show on the NBC network. No statement has been made by AMI or NBC. It wouldn’t change anything but I’m sure those who competed would like to know. It’s rewarding and validating to see your hard work showcased on television. But hey you can always tune into The National Dog Show on NBC.

Wait, what? What the hell does a bodybuilding show and a dog show have to do with one another? More than you might think.

The National Dog Show has been on NBC for over a decade so clearly the pooch patrol has a leg up on bodybuilding there. There were an estimated 20 million viewers for this year’s event. Clearly, if it hadn’t aired there would be some sort of explanation as to why but when bodybuilding’s biggest show doesn’t air nothing is mentioned.

The dog show features, “the leading canines from over 170 breeds (including the world’s largest, smallest and most exotic)”.

The Olympia Weekend showcases a variety of events but mainly the best bodies in the world, some of which are large and muscular while others are more tight and toned.

If you’ve ever watched a dog show you’ve probably wondered, “what the hell are they judging”? I know I did. It’s not all that different from watching a bodybuilding competition for the first time. Spectators in both events will likely pick their favorite(s). If you ask why,  you’ll get a variety of reasons. I like the Labrador retrievers in a dog show. Why? I had one when I was a kid and still partial to them today. They’re good looking, sporty, friendly and obedient. The person to my right may like the poodle because she saw one in a movie and the person to my left fancies the bulldog because Adam Sandler has one. The same holds true to a bodybuilding competition. Maybe the guy has nice abs and you were a fan of Marky Mark’s “Good Vibrations” music video. Ask someone else and they’ll pick the guy with the biggest arms because they like super heroes.

While I was watching The National Dog Show on NBC, it felt a lot like I was watching the “new breeds” of physique competition, i.e. Bikini and Men’s Physique. We’ll focus on the Bikini division. The dog show and a bikini competition showcase a variety of different looks and most are stunning. The dog handlers spend hours (and surely it’s not cheap) preparing for this big day. Just like the bikini competitors. They all look great but how could one win over the other?

I’ve been asked hundreds of times, why did she win and not the other gal? Great question. I have no idea. The bikini competitor I liked the best placed fifth and the one I thought wouldn’t be in the top five won. How do you explain it? Sure you can go down a list of rules and guidelines but will that change your opinion? Maybe but probably not. It didn’t for me when I watched the video explaining what the judges look for in the National Dog show.

After listening to David Frei, the host of the National Dog Show, it appears bikini competitors and dogs may get eerily similar feedback. Both are subjective and depend on who is judging on that day. How it might go when asking for feedback…

Bikini vs The National Dog Show Judges’Feedback.
Dog Show – The collar color was too big.
Bikini – Your suit didn’t fit you right.

Dog Show – The color of the collar was distracting.
Bikini – Your suit color didn’t flatter your body.

Dog Show – The trainer didn’t hold the leash tight enough.
Bikini – You didn’t come in tight enough.

Dog Show – The hair color wasn’t right.
Bikini – Your hair color didn’t work for your physique.

Dog Show – The dog’s hair was too short.
Bikini – Your hair is too short, you should grow it out.

Dog Show – The dog didn’t present well.
Bikini – You need to work on your presentation.

Dog Show – The eye shape wasn’t what it should be.
Bikini – Your eye shadow and makeup were not good.

Dog Show – The dog didn’t hold its stance properly.
Bikini – Your bent too far over when posing.

Dog Show – The dog didn’t stand square.
Bikini – You spread your legs too far apart when posing from the back.

Dog Show – The dog urinated on my foot.
Bikini – You crossed your legs and bent forward like you had to pee.

Dog Show – There’s no such thing as the perfect dog. Yours was the closest to it though.
Bikini – There’s no such thing as a perfect physique. You were the closest to it though.

Dog Show – The dog didn’t move it’s head like it was supposed to.
Bikini – You didn’t pop your booty out like you need to.

Dog Show – The dog looked dehydrated.
Bikini – You pulled too much water.

Dog Show – The dog wasn’t up to the standard for this breed.
Bikini – You’re too muscular, have you thought about doing Figure?

Dog Show – I had your dog in first but was overruled.
Bikini – I had you in first but was overruled.

See NBC… a bodybuilding/bikini show isn’t all the different from the National Dog show.

Just like in bodybuilding, at the dog show there can only be one “Best in Show”. Did everyone agree on the winner of the dog show? Likely not. They certainly didn’t at the Olympia. None-the-less congratulations to Nathan the Bloodhound, winner of the 2014 National Dog Show. You’re like…

The Phil Heath of Bodybuilding.
The Iris Kyle of Women’s Bodybuilding
The Nicole Wilkins of Figure.
The Ashley Kaltwasser of Bikini.
The Juliana Malacarne of Women’s Physique.
The Jeremy Buendia of Men’s Physique.

Since I’ve never been to a dog show I’m left to ponder…
• What do dogs eat backstage?
• Are dogs allowed water backstage?
• Do the dogs have to stay off their feet before heading out to judging?
• Are trainers and their dogs worried if there are enough mirrors backstage?
• Do dogs and their handler worry about what side of the stage they enter?
• Do dogs get treats and eat “bad food” after the show?
• Do the trainers get blamed if the dog doesn’t show well?
• Is the backstage at a dog show as chaotic and smelly as a bodybuilding show?
• Do trainers, significant other and fans at dog shows yell things like, “bullshit! She should be in the first comparison”? I’m guessing not.
• Do dog owners cry “politics” when their dog doesn’t win?
• Do dog fans think the show was a fixed because their favorite pooch didn’t win the “Best in show”? (Yes, I read some comments online saying just that.)
• If a dog is sponsored by a big brand do they get special treatment?
• Does a big social media following help a dog place better?
• Does it matter who the dog’s trainer is?
• Do dog handlers take all the credit for the win in their post show interviews?
• Do dogs get asked what show they are doing next?

If dogs can get two hours on tv, in a competition that few understand, is it too much to ask for Olympia competitors to get the same? After all they’re not that different.

Filed Under: HINDSight, News & Features

FDA Issues Warning: V26 Slimming Coffee Contains Controlled Substance

November 13, 2014 by

The FDA has advised consumers not to purchase or use V26 Slimming Coffee. Their lab anaylsis found the product contains the controlled substance, sibutramine. The FDA issues the release show below and notice their “note”. The note mentioned “a growing trend of dietary supplements or conventional food with hidden drugs and chemicals.” A bit of foreshadowing on what’s the come for the supplement industry and the FDA? Only time will tell but for the FDA to specifically note it’s a “growing trend” is a bit unsettling.

V26 Slimming Coffee Contains Hidden Drug Ingredient
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is advising consumers not to purchase or use V26 Slimming Coffee, a product promoted and sold for weight loss on various websites and possibly in some retail stores.

FDA laboratory analysis confirmed that V26 Slimming Coffee contains sibutramine. Sibutramine is a controlled substance that was removed from the market in October 2010 for safety reasons. The product poses a threat to consumers because sibutramine is known to substantially increase blood pressure and/or pulse rate in some patients and may present a significant risk for patients with a history of coronary artery disease, congestive heart failure, arrhythmias, or stroke. These products may also interact, in life-threatening ways, with other medications a consumer may be taking.

Health care professionals and patients are encouraged to report adverse events or side effects related to the use of these products to the FDA’s MedWatch Safety Information and Adverse Event Reporting Program:

Complete and submit the report online: MedWatch Online Voluntary Reporting Form

Download form or call 1-800-332-1088 to request a reporting form, then complete and return to the address on the pre-addressed form, or submit by fax to 1-800-FDA-0178

Note: This notification is to inform the public of a growing trend of dietary supplements or conventional foods with hidden drugs and chemicals. These products are typically promoted for sexual enhancement, weight loss, and body building and are often represented as being “all natural.” FDA is unable to test and identify all products marketed as dietary supplements that have potentially harmful hidden ingredients. Consumers should exercise caution before purchasing any product in the above categories.

Contact FDA
Toll Free
(855) 543-3784, or
(301) 796-3400
druginfo@fda.hhs.gov

Human Drug Information
Division of Drug Information (CDER)
Office of Communications
10001 New Hampshire Avenue
Hillandale Building, 4th Floor
Silver Spring, MD 20993

News via www.fda.gov

Filed Under: News & Features, Supplements

Record-Breaking Rocky – 2014 NPC Rocky Mountain Championships

November 12, 2014 by

2014 NPC ROCKYThe 2014 NPC Colorado season will come to a close this weekend in Golden, Colorado. Show promoter, Jeff Taylor shared that this will be the largest NPC show in Colorado history. The final count won’t be in until late Friday night but over 400 competitors will compete in bodybuilding, fitness, figure, bikini and physique.

I expect the biggest turn out to be in the Bikini and Men’s Physique divisions. The two divisions are the newest and have experienced the most growth since their inception. This year’s event will have veteran maestro of the microphone, Bob Cicherillo calling the action. Let’s hope the Bobster brings some warmer temps to The Mile High City, as the thermometer currently reads a whopping 10 degrees.

WHAT:The 2014 NPC Rocky Mountain Bodybuilding, Fitness, Figure, Bikini & Physique Championships

WHEN: Saturday, November 15, 2014

WHERE:
School of Mines Green Hall Bunker Auditorium
924 16th Street
Golden, CO

TIME:
Prejudging:
Physique and Bodybuilding – 7:30am
Fitness, Figure & Bikini – 9:00am

Finals:
Physique & Bodybuilding – 4:30pm
Fitness, Figure & Bikini – 7:00pm

For tickets and more information visit: musclequest.com

Official stage photos: photos.liftstudios.com

Filed Under: NPC

2014 IFBB Kentucky Muscle Pro Results

November 8, 2014 by

Kentucky Muscle Pro

The 2014 IFBB Pro season is winding down with just a couple of shows left in each division before the holidays and the new year. The 2014 IFBB Kentucky Muscle Pro is one of those shows and it featured the women of the Figure division and the Men’s Physique pros. Kamla Macko edged out fellow Floridian Jennifer Brown by one point for the win. The victory was the first in Macko’s 2 year pro career. She’d been the bridesmaid on five different occasions but not tonight in Louisville, Kentucky. Brown’s second place finish was the highest of her pro career. Rounding out the top three was Carly Starling Horrell for Wilmington, North Carolina. Just one show remains on the IFBB Pro Figure Schedule, the Felicia Romero Classic next weekend in Arizona.

2014 IFBB Kentucky Muscle Pro Results
Louisville, Kentucky – November 8, 2014

2014 IFBB Kentucky Muscle Pro Figure Results
1. Kamla Macko
2. Jennifer Brown
3. Carly Starling Horrell
4. Maria Garcia
5. Tara Ramos
6. Kim Clark
7. Cinderella Richardson
8. Megan Wyble
9. Krista Dunn
10. Ivana Ivusic
11. Bernita Stuckey
12. Yolanda Anthony
13. Cheryl Davis
14. Agnes Russo
15. Jerrica Thomas
16. Corrina Booth
16. Tatum Bounds
16. Jen Codovez
16. Sarah Dominguez
16. Renata Guaraciaba
16. Charmayne Jackson
16. Vanessa Jacobs
16. Olga Karavayeva
16. Bernadett Matassa
16. Samantha Maycock
16. Alina McCabe
16. Andy Page
16. Rachel Payne
16. Dj Rengert
16. Myra Rogers
16. Liane Seiwald
16. Teela Thompson
16. Chioma Uwasomba
16. Christina Watons
16. Christina Woodward
16. Emily Zelinka

2014 IFBB Kentucky Muscle Pro Men’s Physique Results
1. Michael Anderson
2. Paul Batrony
3. Andre Adams
4. George Brown
5. Michael Blevins
6. Damir Delic
7. David Herskovitz
8. Marcellus Campbell
9. Jacques Dalce, Jr.
10. Alp Yuteri
11. John Arterberry
12. Derverell Maxwell
13. David Gonzalez
14. Denis Gusev
15. Lance Phillips
16. Duane Brickhouse
16. Eric Heldelberg
16. Brian Epstein
16. Chris Mosher
16. Rodney Razor
16. Derrick Wade
16. Matthew Wold

Filed Under: Contest Results

Oksana Grishina Re-signs with SAN

November 4, 2014 by

oksana grishina re-signs
Allow me to state the obvious. IFBB Fitness Pro Oksana Grishina‘s year has been nothing short of spectacular. She kicked the year off with a win at the Fitness International and went on to win the Olympia crown. She then traveled to Madrid and took top honors at the Arnold Spain. She’s featured in a new book, The Women’s Precontest Bible and continues to travel the globe with her sponsor SAN Nutrition.

SAN has been so pleased with Oksana that they renewed her endosrsement contract. Many people get a sponsorship but few continue the partnership beyond the contract. It speaks to not only Oksana’s commitment but also to SAN’s faith in her. I spoke with SAN and asked what attracted them to signing Oksana in the first place. They shared, “From the first time we met Oksana, we knew she was a natural fit with SAN. Not only is she a highly accomplished athlete, but fitness is truly her life, and she embodies everything SAN stands for. On top of her impressive athletic accomplishments, Oksana also carries a degree in Physical Training and Sports, she trains religiously, and her creativity and passion are off the charts. Her positive energy is contagious.”

“Oksana is the consummate perfectionist, and her style fits perfectly with what SAN is doing both domestically and internationally. The world is looking for more well-rounded athletes to make their marks in the fitness sport, and Oksana has already taken things to an entirely new level.” said SAN.

Oksana was excited at the contract renewal and said, “I’m very proud and happy to continue my relationship with SAN Nutrition. SAN makes quality products that have helped to support my training and body for years of Fitness competition.  But, what’s more important to me is that I love all the amazing SAN people who I get to work with!”

Certainly her competitive resume helps attract a sponsor like SAN but it goes behind that. SAN shared, “Oksana is an integral part of Team SAN, and she personifies the SAN philosophy. Whether competing at the highest levels, promoting SAN worldwide, or contributing to the Team SAN blog with tips, hints, and motivation, Oksana Grishina delivers results. Oksana puts her all into everything she does and SAN Nutrition is honored to have her as a member of our team.”

Fans will get a chance to meet Oksana at a number of events across the world in 2015. She is currently schedule to appear at the Arnold Classic in Columbus, The LA Fit Expo, Arnold Brazil, Arnold Madrid, FIBO, the Australian Fitness & Health Expo and of course the Olympia. Oksana said, “I love to see my fans, and spend time with my SAN buddies!  It’s always busy at the booth, so I even try to get there early, just to talk and spend time with my SAN teammates.”

When asked if she’d be back to the Fitness International stage in Columbus, Oksana enthusiastically shared, “Of course, it was really amazing to have such a successful competitive year.  But, when I look to the future, I want to compete for the same reasons I always have–because I love competing as an athlete, and because I have something to say with my performance on stage.  So, I’m still thinking about what to do next.”

That pretty much sums it up. It may sound cliché´ but when you do what you love you’ll be happy. Oksana doesn’t just pretend to live the Fitness lifestyle, she embodies it.

Follow Oksana on Facebook, twitter and instagram. Learn more about SAN and follow Oksana’s blog here.

 

oksana GrishinaOksana is all smiles at the SAN booth. 

Lead photo provided by SAN

 

Filed Under: News & Features

2014 IFBB Sacramento Pro Results

October 31, 2014 by

2014 Sacramento Pro

Nicole Ankney took home her first pro victory tonight in Sacramento, California. She beat out Jessica Arevalo and Christie Marquez, who many felt were the favorites heading into the show. Jessica finished in second and Christie third. Coming in fourth was Breena Martinez and rounding out the top five was Leah Brandt.

Nicole won not only the open bikini but also the master’s pro competition. Pretty cool accomplishment for her considering her first show was on the same stage, just one year ago as an amateur. She turned pro at the 2014 Master’s Nationals and showed great improvement from her 16th place finish at the 2014 Tampa Pro. She’s now qualified to compete at the 2015 Olympia.

2014 IFBB Sacramento Pro Results
Sacramento, California – October 31 – November 1, 2014

2014 IFBB Sacramento Pro Bikini Results
1. Nicole Ankney
2. Jessica Arevalo
3. Christie Marquez*
4. Breena Martinez*
5. Leah Brandt
6. Janelle Saitone-McGuire
7. Camille Periate
8. Krissy Chin
9. Queenie Pe Benito
10. Lisette Howard
11. Annie Parker
12. Jessica James
13. Summer Bernard
14. Enjoli Enriquez
15. Michelle Mein
16. Lisa Asuncion
17. Sheena Jayne Anderton
17. Valerie Cantin
17. Anna Lee McKill
17. Nina Sillic
17. Jen Stevens
17. Brie Tawhal
17. Christina Williams
*tie breaker determined placing

2014 IFBB Sacramento Pro Masters Bikini Results
1. Nicole Ankney
2. Camile Periat
3. Krissy Chin
4. Michelle Mein
5. Valerie Cantin
6. Anna Lee McKill
7. Christina Williams

Filed Under: IFBB

SHOW PREVIEW: 2014 NPC Music City Muscle Classic

October 31, 2014 by

NPC Music City Nashville

The 2014 NPC Music City Muscle competition will take place on November 1, 2014 in Nashville, Tennessee. I’ve covered hundreds of events over the last 10 years and without a doubt this is one of the best shows in the USA. Promoters Brandy Leaver and Brandon Curry do a tremendous job from start to finish and provide the competitors with an unforgettable experience. They’re both IFBB Pros and they’ve “been there done that” as competitors and I think that plays into their show. Brandy’s passion showed last year when she was running the event at 9 months pregnant, yes she was due at any time. Brandon gave local fans a rare glimpse at his stage ready physique by guest posing. He won the inaugural Arnold Classic Brasil and had just competed at the Olympia.

The venue is one of the best you’ll find for any event, amateur or pro. Last year the event sold out in the Polk Theatre and this year they’ve moved to the Andrew JacksonHall in the Tennessee Performing Arts Center. The place is awesome and has three levels of seating. A backstage that is the size of a football field and a pump up room that is the size of a gymnasium. Competitors will be spoiled after competing on this stage because there are few shows that have anything like it.

I caught up with Brandy for a bit more info on the event in a quick Q&A:

HARDBODY (HB): How many years have you promoted this show?
BRANDY LEAVER (BL):This is our 4th year!

HB: Any women who have competed in the show and turned pro?
BL: Yes, Hanna Hallman went pro just a couple of weeks after competing in our show last year. Ecko Johnson was just 1 spot away from earning her pro status 2 years ago after winning our show.

HB: Numbers expected this year vs the first year?
BL: Our first year we had 96 total, and this year we are hoping to hit the 400 mark! We are already past 300 in pre registration! (not to mention we are still a non National Qualifier! That is, until next year! Woohoo!)

HB: Venue change?
BL: Same building, but this year we are going into a bigger theatre in the Tennessee Performing Arts Center. Our old theatre held around 1500 people and we sold the last ticket at finals just 7 minutes after opening the doors last year and had to turn a lot of people away. So this year we were ready for the big one and are heading into the Andrew Jackson Hall which seats 2500 spectators. It’s just beautiful.


HB: What separates your show from others?
BL: Brandon and I wanted to put on a show that focused on the competitors, not ourselves. To be honest a lot of people know the show but they don’t realize that we run it. And we are cool with that! We create a positive environment for competitors backstage and even have a good old homemade Red Velvet Cake waiting for them the second they get off stage at the Finals! I think people like to do our show because we care about the competitors and make them feel comfortable no matter their age, or if it’s their first time competing or if they are a very experienced competitor. We have people competing from ages 16-76! Last year we even had a BLIND woman compete and she placed in the top 5! It’s inspiring and it’s all positive! We want people to celebrate and feel rewarded for the journey that they have been on. Not everyone will become an IFBB Pro but I want to give everyone a place to be able to compete comfortably and be satisfied with themselves no matter what the outcome. It’s a show for everyone to have a good time!

We also like to make it entertaining for spectators. We run it as a production during the Finals so it’s not just an award show! We have such an amazing venue, why not take it all the way! LOL! A lot of people come to the show that have never been to a Bodybuilding event before so we try to entertain them too!

SHOW INFO:
WHERE:
Tennessee Performing Arts Center / Andrew Jackson Hall
505 Deaderick St.
Nashville,TN

WHEN:
November 1, 2014
Prejudging: 8:30am
Finals: 5:30pm

More info: MusicCityMuscle.com

Filed Under: News & Features, NPC

2015 Olympia Qualification Point Series

October 29, 2014 by

2014 Olympia Point Series

The IFBB Professional League announced the 2015 Olympia Qualification Series and the point breakdown. Not much has changed from 2014 with the exception of a few shows being added and a couple of shows dropped. The Qualification Series has morphed a bit since it started in 2011 but the current formula seems to be working. The simplest way to explain it is, win and you’re in the Olympia. If you don’t win, then you accumulate points. The top five people at the end of the competition season (Olympia to Olympia) are qualified to compete. The top five competitors in the Olympia are automatically qualified for the following year’s Olympia.

2015 Olympia Qualification Series
Pittsburgh, PA – October 28, 2014 – The IFBB Professional League, in conjunction with Joe Weider’s Olympia Fitness & Performance Weekend, announces the 2014 Olympia Qualification Series, a point-based system that determines qualifiers for all Olympia divisions.

The Olympia Qualification Series awards points to competitors placing 2nd to 5th at IFBB Pro League competitions. At the end of the Olympia Qualification season, the five competitors with the highest point totals in the Olympia Qualification Series qualify to compete at the Olympia.

Since the winner of each competition automatically qualifies, no points are awarded for first place. Additionally, competitors placing in the TOP FIVE AT THE OLYMPIA automatically qualify for the following year.

Points and qualifications int he 2015 Olympia Qualification Series are awarded as follows:

TIER 1: Arnold Classic USA
2nd – 8 points
3rd – 7 points
4th – 6 points
5th – 5 points

TIER 2: Arnold Classic (Spain), New York Pro, Prague Pro
2nd – 6 points
3rd – 5 points
4th – 4 points
5th – 3 points

TIER 3: Arnold Classic Brazil & Australia, Pittsburgh Pro, China Pro
2nd – 5 points
3rd – 4 points
4th – 3 points
5th – 2 points

TEIR 4: All Other Competitions
2nd – 4 points
3rd – 3 points
4th – 2 points
5th – 1 points

The points are accumulated throughout the year with the first contest points beginning with the first show after the Olympia. There have been competitors who tie in points and so far those who tie end up going to the Olympia without a tie breaker being determined.

Announcement via IFBBPro.com

Filed Under: IFBB, News & Features

National Oatmeal Day – October 29th

October 29, 2014 by

national oatmeal day
It’s National Oatmeal Day. What does that mean? Great question and I have no clue, it just kept popping up on my twitter feed this morning. Do we really need a day devoted to Oatmeal? Apparently so. Competitors often make oatmeal part of the contest prep and while it can is boring to eat you can spice it up with peanut butter, bananas, cinnamon or stevia. Many people are on an anti-grain kick lately so don’t count on them to help you celebrate this ridiculous day.

Joe Silverman, senior marketing director for Quaker Foods North America, shared, “Oatmeal is a delicious and nutritious breakfast option that families have enjoyed together for generations. We’re excited to treat fans, especially on National Oatmeal Day, with oatmeal to start their day off right.”

Looking for a few oatmeal recipes? Check em out here.

Bodybuilding.com also has a few recipes to help make oatmeal suck less.

oatmeal

 

photo via bbcom

Filed Under: News & Features

2014 IFBB Sacramento Pro Competitor Lists

October 29, 2014 by

2014 Sacramento Pro
The 2014 IFBB Sacramento Pro will feature the women of the pro bikini division and the men’s physique division. This show has been a mainstay in Northern California for years and a number of the NPC competitors from this show have gone on to not only turn pro but do well as a pro. The event has featured Figure, Bodybuilding but lately focused on Bikini and Men’s Physique. Only five women in the line-up are from outside of The Golden State. The winner will qualify for the 2015 Olympia and currently no one already qualified for the Olympia has entered.

Last year was the first Pro Master’s Bikini competition, which was won by Noy Alexander. Surprisingly, Amanda Latona will not be back to defend her title. She’s won this show the last three years. There’s no clear winner in the line up so its anyone’s show to win.

IFBB Sacramento Pro Competitor Lists
Sacramento, California – November 1, 2014

IFBB Sacramento Pro Bikini Competitors
Sheena Jayne Anderton
Nicole Ankney
Jessica Arevalo
Lisa Asuncion
Queenie Pe Benito
Summer Bernard
Leigh Brandt
Valerie Cantin
Krissy Chin
Enjoli Enriquez
Lisette Howard
Jessica James
Christie Marquez
Breena Martinez
Anna Lee McKill
Michelle Mein
Annie Parker
Camile Periat
Janelle Saitone-McGuire
Nina Silic
Jen Stevens
Brie Tawhal
Christina Williams

IFBB Sacramento Pro Masters Bikini Competitors
Nicole Ankney
Valerie Cantin
Krissy Chin
Anna Lee McKill
Michelle Mein
Camile Periat
Christina Williams

IFBB Sacramento Pro Men’s Physique Competitors
Nicholas Adams
Jake Alvarez
Dean Balabis
Thomas Canepa
Mariusz Czerniewicz
Murat Demir
Michael Doughtery
Brian Epstein
James Hurst
William Kitchen
Joseph Lee
Devon Lindner
Darnell Moss
John Nguyen
Jake Phippen
Arya Saffaie
Mike Saffaie
Jeremy Tevaga

IFBB Sacramento Pro Master’s Men’s Physique Competitors
Tim DeGroot
Murat Demir
Michael Dougherty
Brian Epstein
Mike Saffaie

Sacramento pro poster

Filed Under: News & Features, Show Previews

2014 Phoenix Pro Prejudging Report

October 26, 2014 by

2014 Phoenix Pro Prejudging Report
The 2014 Phoenix Pro prejudging took place on Saturday, October 25th in downtown Phoenix. Every division, except women’s bodybuilding, was on display at the event. Over 160 men and women competed over the course of 5 hours in the prejudging portion of the competition.

THE HARDBODY 411:
FITNESS 2-PIECE
It looks like Whitney Jones, Ryall Graber and Sara Kovach will be in the top three with Kelcie Gahley,, Shelly Paton and Chika Aluka in the hunt as well. Sara was moved to the middle at the end of the first callout however I wouldn’t have given her the first place nod. I would have Whitney winning the 2piece round but I’d love to see her ditch the “taking flight” flapping of her arms/hands when she gets into her poses. Physique wise it’s the best she’s looked. Sara put on quite a bit of muscle since the Tampa show and her quads were a tad over powering. Ryall looks good from the front but disappears in the side poses. Kelcie has a nice look and if she nails her routine she should finish in the top five. The fitness routines count for 2/3 the final score so it’s still anyone’s show to win. I like Shannon Siemer’s chances to move up into the top five after the routine rounds as she always brings a solid routine to the stage. Some of the women I’d put in the first or second callout were in the last callout. We’ll see who qualifies for the 2015 Olympia with a win here tomorrow. The top three will receive prize money with the winner getting $5,000, second getting $3,000 and third will earn $2,000. It’s the same prize money as the men’s 212 bodybuilding and deservedly so. I’d argue they deserve as much as the open men, especially in this line up.

WOMEN’S PHYSIQUE
The women’s physique looks like it will be between Tamee Marie and Teresita Morales. I’d give the nod to Tamee Marie but who knows. Third looks to be a lock for Heather Grace and Jamie Postill from Canada in 4th. This was the first time I’ve seen Jamie compete and she has tremendous potential. La’Drissa Bonivel, Susan Salazar and Natalia Batova will likely round out the top 7 spots. It was a little unusual to see seven women called out and especially odd to see Natalia Batova in that group. She looked great but belongs in women’s bodybuilding with the amount of muscle she carries. She was way too muscular for a first callout, at least in my opinion. The winner will receive $3,000, second $1,1500 and third $500.

FIGURE
The Figure division had me raising an eyebrow and saying huh? There was a wide variety of physiques on stage and some in the first callout I agreed with while others I never would have bet on it. It looks like Vera Mallet could win this show with Ivana Ivusic in the second place spot. I like Ivana’s look and potential in the division. Brittany Campbell has an incredible physique but looked like a physique competitor in heels. She has huge delts, massive quads and big calves. If she had competed in Physique at this show I’d have her in the top 3. How she made it into the top callout and will likely finish in the top 3 is beyond me. No disrespect to her or the judges but it’s definitely a confusing call. Rounding out the top spots will be Josie Zamora, Beckie Boddie and Tamara Sedlack. I like Tamara’s look but her suit top was not flattering from the front and I think it hurt her placing. First place takes home $3,000, second $2,000 and third $1,000.

BIKINI
Bikini has become a head scratching division. Some of the posing is mind boggling. The shaking of the shoulders to the swaying of the hips and winking is just absurd. There were some interesting choices in heels, suits and makeup. By “interesting” I mean bad. Like REALLY bad and whoever is teaching this should be embarrassed for such ridiculousness.

As expected, Sarah LeBlanc looks to be your winner. She has a nice physique and doesn’t over do the posing. Francesca Lauren could snag the second place spot and while she has a nice look I never would have bet on her being in the top spots. Why will she finish there? No clue. Lindsey Waters looks to be a lock for third but I could see her in second. She has a nice physique but the make up and the eyelashes that look to be a foot long have gotta go. Bianca Berry will finish in the top five once again and likely be in 4th. Tatiana Koshmann made the switch to Bikini from Figure and while she looked great, I wouldn’t have her in the first callout simply because of her muscularity. Rounding out the top spots were Yarishna Ayala and Alexa Hotaling. Some of the women I thought would be in the top spots were in the bottom callouts.

One thing I noticed at check-in was a competitor wearing a “Shaper”. Scratch that – TWO shapers on the outside of her clothing. This crap has gotta stop. If you wear one good for you, I don’t agree with it, but please don’t wear it to check-in. It’s embarrassing and does nothing to help the bikini argument of “we’re athletes!” The winner of the show will receive $3,000, second earns $1,500 and third receives $500.

The finals take place at 2pm Phoenix time on Sunday. For photos visit FLEXonline.com, Bodybuilding.com and/or NPCnewsonline.com.

Filed Under: Show Previews

Chevy Features 13-year-old Pitcher Mo’ne Davis

October 22, 2014 by

mo'ne davis commercial
During Game 1 of the World Series, Chevrolet aired a commercial featuring 13-year-old Mo’ne Davis. Earlier this year, she was featured on the cover of Sports Illustrated and captured the hearts of America after she became the first girl to pitch a shutout in the Little League World Series. You don’t have to be a sports fan to appreciate what she’s done and is doing to change the conversation of young women in sports.

I had the pleasure of meeting and chatting with Mo’ne earlier this month at the espnW Women in Sports Summit. She’s well-spoken, humble and you can tell she has a good head on her shoulders. She shared a bit about her appearance on The Tonight Show and how she got the hook up for mentioning her love for Lazaro’s pizza on air. It wasn’t something she planed but a nice gesture for just being herself on the show. I quickly realized everything she said was authentic and forgot she’s only 13-year old. Enough of my chit-chat with the super-star.

The Chevy spot was directed by Spike Lee and aired twice during the game. The script reads…

Dear United States of America,

I’m 13 years old.

This summer was the best summer of my young life.

Out of this whole journey, the best part was having my family behind me supporting me through everything I did.

I have a passion for sports.

Everyday of the week, I’m playing soccer, basketball or baseball.

I stand for girls who want to play sports with the boys and to be a role model for people, young and old.

I throw 70 miles per hour. That’s throwing like a girl.

Sincerely,

Your Daughter – Mo’ne Davis

The spot ends with a screen that says, “Chevy celebrates Mo’ne Davis and those who remind us that anything is possible.” It’s a feel good commercial and you can help but be proud of her accomplishments. Does it make me want to run out and buy a chevy? No but I applaud them for featuring her in the spot.

In addition to the 60-second commercial, there’s a documentary that features Mo’Ne, her coach, family and friends. The documentary is great and worth watching despite running nearly 17 minutes long. You gain insight into her work ethic, her family, how she bumped Kobe Bryant for the cover of SI, tweets from the First Lady and more. My favorite part is when she’s asked what she does for fun. Answer? Sleep. HAHA.

ESPN’s Darren Rovell confirmed that her eligibility will not be compromised by the appearance. He writes, “Appearing in a commercial that aired during Game 1 of the World Series will not compromise the amateur status of Little League pitcher Mo’ne Davis should she choose to play college sports.”

BRAVO Mo’ne. Bravo! You’re definitely an inspiration to young and old of all genders.

Filed Under: Ad Watch

Little Girls Drop “F-Bombs for Feminism”

October 22, 2014 by

F-bombs feminism
T-Shirt company FCKH8.com is doing a great job of creating a conversation with their newest ad. The ad shows young girls dropping F-bombs “for feminism”. The ad was pulled from youtube citing “its content violated YouTube’s Terms of Service” but is on Vimeo and their website.

Little Girls Drop “F-Bombs for Feminism”

Video producer Mike Kon comments, “Some adults may be uncomfortable with how these little girls are using a bad word for a good cause. It is shocking what they are saying, but the real shock is that women are still paid less than men for the same work in 2014, not the use of the F-word. The big statistic that 1 out of 5 women are sexually assaulted or raped is something society seems to find less offensive than a little four letter word and we love how these girls draw attention to that imbalance.” He added, “Instead of washing these girls’ mouths out with soap, maybe society needs to clean up its act.”

It’s not the first time FCKH8 has tackled controversy. In September, they released “Hey White People: A Kinda Awkward Note to America by #Ferguson Kids”.


Quotes from “Pink Princesses Drop F-Bombs for Feminism”:

“Women make 23% less than men for the exact same f*cking work. I shouldn’t need a penis to get paid.”

“Stop focusing on the way I f*cking look and give me a book. My aspirations in life shouldn’t be worrying about the shape of my ass.”

“One out of five women will be sexually assaulted or raped by a man. Stop telling girls how to dress and start teaching boys not to f*cking rape.”

Brian Sweet posted on their Facebook page, “So proud of all those posting that if their own daughters spoke like this they would slap them silly. I’d rather every six-year-old swear like a sailor than have a single adult literally slap a child. No, I don’t really think children should use certain words; but some of you adults need to learn to use YOUR words, not your fists. Set a better example…for fuck’s sake.” Which received over 6,300 likes. As you can imagine many, MANY more comments are being posted and they aren’t all supportive of the ad.

What do you think? Join the conversation on our Facebook page.

Quotes provided by fckh8.

Filed Under: Ad Watch

“NBC SPORTSWORLD” Returns

October 21, 2014 by

nbc sportsworld

Joe Posnanski wrote, “We craved anything that resembled sports.” in his story titled “This is Sportsworld”. It’s in reference to NBC’s sports program from the 1980s. You can see the opening to it below and if you look close around the 57 second mark you’ll see female bodybuilding champion, Cory Everson. Don’t hold your breath on ever seeing that aired today. The 50th Olympia was supposed to air on NBC Sports Network but was pulled for unknown reasons but that’s a story for another time.

It’s refreshing to see NBC Sports focusing on the art of storytelling. It’s the easiest way to get people interested in sports. If a story is told in a compelling way, you’ll find yourself reading or watching it even if you don’t like the sport or the player. Check out NBCSportsWorld.com for a few stories already published, like the one with 12-time Paralympic Gold Medalist Jessica Long, and bookmark it for future stories.

“NBC SPORTSWORLD” is the New Long-Form Home of NBC Sports Digital
NBC Sports Digital recently announced the launch of NBC SportsWorld, a new micro-site within NBCSports.com dedicated to long-form storytelling. The site is populated with compelling long-form stories, essays, short films and documentaries, including select archived Olympic video.

Named after NBC Sports’ television program in the 1980s, which featured global content from a variety of sports properties, NBCSportsWorld.com is the home of exclusive long-form pieces from NBC Sports Digital’s contributors, including award-winning writer Joe Posnanski, Joe Prince-Wright of ProSoccerTalk, and Nick Zaccardi of OlympicTalk.

Following the site’s debut last Thursday, NBCSportsWorld has since added the following long-form pieces:

Payne, the story of how golf champion Payne Stewart lived, from the early days when his father guided and influenced him, his first Ryder Cup win, and the tragic end to his life in a lonely field in South Dakota.

CSN Bay Area Senior Insider Ray Ratto connects the dots from Joe Montana and John Elway to Colin Kapernick and Peyton Manning.

Nick Zaccardi examines the illusive long-jump record as current record holder Mike Powell celebrates 23 years with the title, the same amount of time as previous record holder Bob Beamon.

Bob Costas’s interview with Peyton Manning, who, prior to breaking Brett Favre’s all-time record for career touchdown passes, discussed the record-holders who preceded him.

In order to stay up to date with all of the latest features and videos on NBC SportsWorld, users can subscribe to a weekly newsletter that will be published each Friday recapping the previous week’s content on NBCSportsWorld.com. Readers can also follow NBC SportsWorld on Facebook at Facebook.com/NBCSportsWorld and Twitter @NBCSportsWorld.

Filed Under: News & Features

Ten Interesting Things To Check Out Today

October 21, 2014 by

ten stories to check out

Ten things I found interesting around the web recently. Do you have something interesting worth sharing? Email editor @ hardbodynews.com and let me know.

Oscar Pistorius starts serving 5 year prison term
Double-Amputee Olympic Sprinter, Oscar Pistorius was sentenced to five years in prison for killing his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp. He could be released after 10 months in jail and serve the remainder of his sentence under house arrest. The taken away in a police van Tuesday to start serving a five-year prison sentence for killing girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp. He will be will be ineligible to compete in any Paralympic events during his sentence. – Via Associated Press

THE GIRLS OF INSTAGRAM – WHAT HAPPENED?
Check out what Girl is Not a Four Letter Word has been highlighting when it comes to young female athletes and their Instagram accounts.
Via girlisnota4letterword.com

Chobani to introduce “Chobani Tots”
The popular greek yogurt brand plans to introduce the new product this January. – Via AdAge

Trying to Live in the Moment (and Not on the Phone)
via The New York Times

China plans to grow its sports sector into a 5-trillion-yuan ($817-billion) industry by 2025.
via reuters.com

Marathon Lawsuit
Paid workers vs Volunteers when it comes to a marathon and why this lawsuit matters. – Via Outside Online

Flying into obesity: Could jet lag be making you fat?
Via The Australian

Lebron James is featured in a new Beats By Dre headphone commercial but what’s with the Nike gloves for his workout?

Wanted: Cities interested in hosting 2024 Olympics
“The USOC is weighing bids from four cities before deciding whether to submit a candidate to the IOC next year. Vying for the U.S. nomination are Los Angeles, San Francisco, Boston and Washington. Los Angeles hosted the games in 1932 and 1984 and offers the easiest choice from the U.S., but does the world want to go back for a third time or go somewhere new?” – Via Associated Press

Why Are Americans So Fascinated With Extreme Fitness?
Heather Havrilesky writes and essay for The New York Times discussing the fascination CrossFit and “extreme fitness”. She writes, “There’s also a very American fixation on extremes at play: More is always better.” via – The New York Times

Filed Under: News & Features

2014 IFBB Fort Lauderdale Pro Results

October 19, 2014 by

fort lauderdale Cup

The women of the IFBB Pro Bikini division were back on stage at the 2014 IFBB Fort Lauderdale Pro Bikini competition. The women were joined on stage by the Men’s Physique pros and an amateur competition. The winner qualified for the 2015 Olympia and the second through fifth place finishers earn points towards the Olympia Point Series.

As expected, Stephanie Mahoe and Bianca Berry were in the top spots during prejudging. Stephanie took home top honors for her second pro win of the year. Coming in second, was Bianca Berry. Bianca continues to be a top contender in every show she enters. The surprise of the group, at least to me, was Catherine Radulic. She was 6th at the 2014 IFBB Pittsburgh Masters Pro Championships and 6th at the 2014 IFBB PBW Tampa Pro.

2014 IFBB Fort Lauderdale Pro Bikini Results
1. Stephanie Mahoe
2. Bianca Berry
3. Catherine Radulic
4. Shandy Ortiz
5. Michelle Sylvia
6. Denita Clark
7. Jessica Renee
8. Elia Fernandez
9. Gigi Amurao
10. Jazmeen Hernandez
11. Stefanie Bambrough
12. Sana Shah
13. Ruth Jean
14. Michelle Johnson
15. Jessica James
16. Anna Kiseleva

2014 IFBB Fort Lauderdale Pro Men’s Physique Results
1. Matthew Acton
2. Michael Ferguson
3. Anton Antipov
4. Emmanuel Banks
5. David Herskovitz
6. Joe Cantu
7. Butch Rolle
8. Jermaine Ward
9. Jacques Dalce
10. Pierre Vuala
11. Andre Adams
12. Chris Griffin
13. Denis Gusev
14. Brian Epstein
15. Geobanny Paula
16. Justin Busiere
16. Michael Feeks
16. Daniel Garcia
16. Sheridan Hause
16. Ron Knighton
16. Muhsin Nasir
16. Aaron O’Connell

Filed Under: Contest Results

2014 IFBB Europa Phoenix Pro Competitor Lists

October 18, 2014 by

2014 Phoenix Pro

The 2014 IFBB Europa Phoenix Pro is shaping up to be a jam packed event with nearly every pro division being part of the weekend’s events. The show will take place in Phoenix, Arizona on October 25 and 26th. One thing to note is this is a Saturday and Sunday event. Most shows are Friday and Saturday so plan accordingly if you plan to attend the show or are competing in the event.

These are the initial lists but are not final. Check back closer to the event to get the final list. As you can see it looks to be a huge show with over 150 competitors.

2014 IFBB Europa Phoenix Pro Competitor Lists (UPDATED ON OCTOBER 22, 2014)
Phoenix, AZ

2014 IFBB Europa Phoenix Pro Fitness
Chika Aluka
Sherry Boudreau
Susana Cacavieli
Allions Ethier
Kelcie Gahley
Ryall Graber
Natalie Graziano
Amanda Hatfield
Whitney Jones
Sara Kovach
Nita Marquez
Babette Mulford
Irene Nunn
Shelly Paton
Shannon Siemer
Holly Semanoff
Debbie Sizemore
Hollie Stewart
Kimberly Stroup
Tanis Tzavaras

2014 IFBB Europa Phoenix Pro Figure
Viviana Baca Servin
Shianne Behan
Beckie Boddie
Shalako Bradberry
Jennifer Brown
Brittany Campbell
Kim Clark
Virginia Coffman
Amber Crowder
Sarah Dominquez
Dawn Fernandez
Ivana Ivusic
Elizabeth Jenkins
Kimberly Jones
Olga Karavayeva
Danielle Kifer
Vera Mallet
Linda Potter
Susana Ramirez
Denise Rose
Agness Russo
Tamara Sedlack
Lacy Smith
Melissa Smith
Melissa Spiegel
Carly Starling Horrell
Karly Woodle
Josie Zamora

2014 IFBB Europa Phoenix Pro Bikini
Sheena Jayne Anderton
Jessica Arevalo
Lisa Asuncion
Yarishan Ayala
Bianca Berry
Michelle Brannan
Lorena Bucio
Iveth Carreon
Krissy Chin
Karey Grabow
Jessica Gutierrez
Solmay Hernandez
Alexa Hotaling
Lisette Howard
Jessica James
Lisa Kelly
Tatiana Koshman
Francesca Lauren
Sarah LeBlanc
Jessica Lynn
Breena Martinez
Cristina Mendivil
Bruna Miyagui
Edna Olivas
Joni Lyn Ortiz
Cecile Palacios
Camile Periat
Lisa Roy
Janelle Saitone-McGuire
Jen Stevens
Cindy Villalobos
Lindsey Waters
Lindsey Wells

2014 IFBB Europa Phoenix Pro Women’s Physique
Natalia Batova
Laura Boisacq
La’Drissa Bonivel
Shannon Byers
Andrea de Carvalho Ferreira
Margarita Charaim
Desunka Dawson
Antoinette Downie
Cassandra Floyd
Heather Grace
Asha Hadley
Hannah Hallman
NeKole Hamrick
Marnie Holley
Katerina Kyptova
Erin Lawson
Marina Lopez
Tannaz Malek Nasta
Jodi Marchuck
Tamee Marie
Jayla McDermott
Teresita Morales
Loana Paula Muttoni
Jamie Postill
Rita Rae
Jennifer Robinson
Susan Salazar
Kelli Schrader
Rebecca Schubeck
Casie Shepherd
Tracy Weller
Shelly Yakimchuk

2014 IFBB Europa Phoenix Pro Men’s Bodybuilding
Grigori Atoyan
Pablo Ayaia Zayas
Mohamed Ali Bannout
Lloyd Dollar
Alden Gamet
Johnnie Jackson
Mike Johnson
Richie Langit
Nikitas Manolakas
An Nguyen
Frank Roberson
Brad Rowe
John Sherman
Fred Smalls
Ben White

2014 IFBB Europa Phoenix Pro Men’s 212 Bodybuilding
Ahmad Ahmad
Gamal Al Maadway
Breon Ansley
Lyndon Belgrave
Jose Bustamante
Marco Cardona
Pete Ciccone
Mark Dugdale
Wendell Floyd
Shavis Higa
Tricky Jackson
Lorenzo Jones
Hennie Kotze
Daron Lytle
Bola Ojex
Leonardo Pacheco
Jose Raymond
Luis Santa
Troy Tate
Marvin Ward

2014 IFBB Europa Phoenix Pro Men’s Physique
Nick Adams
Matt Christianer
Mariusz Czerniewicz
Damir Delic
Murat Demir
Scott Do
Michael Ferguson
Xavisus Gayden
David Gonzalez
Edgar Julian Gonzalez
Frank Griffin
Evan Gryka
Ryan Hinton
Greg Jones
Qaardir Majeed
Darnell Moss
Freddy Naidu
Jason Poston
Pierre Vuala
Chris Williamson

For more information on the event visit www.europaexpo.com.

Filed Under: IFBB, News & Features

Hendrickson Wins US Ski Jumping National Championships

October 12, 2014 by

Sarah Hendrickson won the K90 U.S. Ski Jumping Championship on Sunday in Lake Placid, New York. She won with a combined total of 245.5, narrowly beating out Jessica Jerome who finished second with 243.5 total. Coming in third was Tara Geraghty-Moats with 230.5.

Hendrickson was the first female ski jumper in Olympics History.


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Ending the summer with a National Title! Great competition for the US ladies out here today and ready for winter. World Champs Season 2015- Bring it! #wsjusa #fisskijumping #visa #redbull #usana #teamvisa #oakley #fluege.de

View on Instagram

US Ski Jumping & Nordic Combined Championships
Lake Placid, New York – Sunday October 12, 2014

Women (K90) Results (pdf)
1. Sarah Hendrickson – 245.5
2. Jessica Jerome – 243.5
3. Tara Geraghty-Moats – 230.5
4. Nina Lussi – 212.0
5. Nita Englund – 113.5
6. Logan Sankey – 64.0
7. Cara Larson – 59.0
8. Sabina Gasiencia – 23.5
9. Gabby Armstrong – 21.0
10. Sophia Nester – 11.0
11. Hana Schrock – 4.0

Follow the US Women’s Ski Jumping Team on Facebook.

Filed Under: SPORTS

2014 Nordic Pro Results – Eubanks Wins

October 12, 2014 by

2014 Nordic Pro

Tawna Eubanks took home her third IFBB pro victory of the year and qualified for the 2015 Olympia in the process. Tawna won the OC Classic and Dallas Pro before finishing 8th at the 2014 Olympia. Over the weekend, she beat out a competitive field at the 2014 Nordic Pro in Lahti, Finland. Christina Strom Fjaere and Sara Back both presented physiques that would take top honors at most shows. If both of these women apply for the Bikini International they should get an invite, they’re worthy of an invite and then some. This was Sarah’s pro debut and those in attendance commented that she is one of the best competitors they’ve seen in the division. Keep an eye on her in the months ahead. Noemi Olah finished in fourth and rounding out the top five was Anna Virmajoki.

2014 Nordic Pro Bikini Results
1. Tawna Eubanks
2. Christina Fjaere
3. Sarah Back
4. Noemi Olah
5. Anna Virmajoki
6. Lacey DeLuca
7. Egle Eller
8. Margret Gnarr
9. Aly Garcia
10. Michelle Lewin
11. Valeria Ammierato
12. Jessica Renee
13. Anna Larsson

The Bikini competition was held in conjunction with the Nordic Pro Men’s Bodybuilding which was won by Roelly Winklaar.

2014 Nordic Pro Men’s Bodybuilding Results
1. Roelly Winklaar
2. Steve Kuclo
3. Johnnie Jackson
4. Ronnie Rockel
5. Robert Piotrkowicz
6. Jeno Kiss
7. Robert Burneika
8. Alexey Lesukov
9. Aliaksei Shabunia
10. Mario Van Steenberghe
11. Nikitas Sotirios Manolakas
12. Oleg Emmellanov
13. Vladimir Agrinskiy
14. Alexandra Nataf
15. Rudy Richards
16. Timo Honkala
17. Dainius Barzinskas

Filed Under: Contest Results

Christina Strøm Fjære Featured in D2 Magazine

October 12, 2014 by

Cristina d2 Magazine

I don’t have a clue what Cristina is saying but check out this well produced video highlighting her appearance at the 2014 Bikini Olympia. Cristina is Norway’s first IFBB Bikini Pro and the Olympia was her second pro show ever. A HUGE accomplishment and D2, a Norwegian magazine took notice. A writer and photographer traveled from Norway to Las Vegas for an in-depth feature on Cristina for the magazine and the accompanying video below.

See more on D2’s Facebook page.

Filed Under: News & Features, Videos

‘The Box’ Backlash – Crossfitters Hate Photoshopped Camille LeBlanc-Bazinet Cover

October 4, 2014 by

The Box Photoshop Camille
The Crossfit community is a tight knit group of people who tend to be extremely passionate about their sport. While some outsiders would argue they take their enthusiasm too far, I’d argue there are far worse things in life than to be fanatical about working out and following a specific nutrition plan. That’s a debate for another time. The reality is you don’t have to be a participant to appreciate the hard work and dedication it takes to become one of the elite athletes in Crossfit.

The Crossfit Games are held once a year, usually the end of July, and crown “The Fittest Woman (and man) on Earth.” Helluva title, right? It’s the holy grail of Crossfit and a sacred stature that few have reached. There’s no denying that if you win it, you’re a bad ass. This year’s female winner was Canadian Camille LeBlanc. Camille has landed multiple endorsement deals and unquestionably has a marketable look because of the hardbody she’s built. She trains like a beast and is a role model for women and men, in and out of Crossfit. She works hard, eats right, trains consistently and has fun along the way. Winning this year’s Crossfit Games makes her a no-brainer to grace the cover of a Crossfit magazine.

Camille was featured on Oxygen magazine’s last issue out of the Canadian offices (July 2013). On that cover they asked, “Could this be the fittest woman on earth?” In the Crossfit world the answer, albeit it officially validated a year later, would be YES!

camille leblanc oxygen coverCamille LeBlanc-Bazinet on Oxygen Magazine

The mag shut down for a stint and reopened under new publishers, Active Interest Media (AIM). AIM acquired Oxygen and two other titles previously published by Robert Kennedy but why is this important? AIM publishes ‘The Box’ magazine. Their website states The Box Magazine “serves the vast — and growing — population of CrossFitters. It educates new practitioners about CrossFit’s benefits, motivates existing members of the CrossFit community and advocates for the sport of CrossFit.”

The Box typically shows an athlete or athletes in workout attire on their cover. The magazine is published bi-monthly and has done a good job of featuring men and women on their covers over the years. It’s one of the few magazines that showcases an athlete as an athlete… until now. This month, The Box opted to show the newly crowned Fittest Woman on Earth® in a swimsuit, on a beach for their cover.

The Box CovrersTHE BOX covers

It’s not the first time she’s been on The Box cover. Camille was featured on the October-November 2012 cover and they called her “The Face of Fitness”. Pretty good call, right? So why would they stray from their usual covers and present Camille as a swimsuit model instead of an athlete? Great question and it’s one that has the Crossfit nation up in arms over. It’s not only because she’s presented as a swimsuit model but also the poor job they did “photoshopping” her.

Camille LeBlanc The Box CoverCamille LeBlanc-Bazinet on The Box cover in 2012 (left) and 2014 (right)

Let’s be clear. Yes, every magazine has “photoshopping” done to it. That’s the “reality” of the magazine biz however there’s a difference in recreating a body and retouching/editing one. Removing stray hairs, a bright spot in the skin and/or a skin blemish are part of retouching any image. I know, I’m a photographer and I edit photos daily. Did Camille get a bad photoshop job on her latest cover? Ya, her waist is the most obvious. She’s also got a sic set of abs but you’d never know that from the photo, in fact you’d wonder where they are if you had never seen her before.

There’s no reason to modify Camille, The FITTEST Woman on Earth, to be something she’s not. She’s not a swimsuit model. She never claims to be. She never strives to be one. When I interviewed her I asked her, “Do you feel like there’s pressure on women to look a certain way in CrossFit?” She shared, “Yes, I think women still want to be small and ripped, but I think we shouldn’t care about the way we look as long as our fitness is going up.” Camille’s fitness went up since then and she didn’t worry about being small and ripped as it’s irrelevant to her winning The Game. It’s a too bad The Box thought showcasing her as smaller and more ripped would be relevant to selling magazines. I find the corny “Life’s a Beach” and “awash in opportunity” nearly as silly as the image.

camille leblanc The Box

The Box 2014 Cover with Camille Leblanc, The Fittest Woman on Earth.

The Crossfit nation has called bullshit on the cover and you have to appreciate some of the comments being posted online about it. Let’s start with the posting of the image on The Box’s Facebook page.

Post by The Box Magazine.

Ouch. I’m guessing not quite the response they expected but BRAVO for fans and readers calling it out.

When the fans asked (many demanded) for an explanation, The Box demonstrated how NOT to respond. Public Relations 101 – don’t try to be funny and don’t add fuel to a fire. You’d be more productive pissing into the wind. Here’s what they posted.

Post by The Box Magazine.

An angry mob photo. Funny. Ha. Not. FAIL.

A couple quotes from fans…

“I am NEVER negative and I keep my page that way for a reason….. But i just couldn’t help but feel sad just quite mad a magazine such a “The BOX magazine” would photoshop camilles picture and take away her muscles… Why??????

We’re suppose to EMBRACE our hard earned work not “hide” or take away from them and “conform” to what society wants. Truly disappointed in this one.
Always Always EMBRACE your muscles ladies… ALWAYS!!!”
– CFStrongWomen FB

Reddit members are sounding off too.

The second I saw the cover I could tell something was wrong immediately. The thing is, Camille is obviously beautiful and strong and fit, but we all know she doesn’t have the smallest waist and that doesn’t matter at all. – emptycalsxycuriosityDeuce Gym

“That is insulting. She’s worked her ass off to get where she is and then this magazine photoshops her muscles OFF? I can’t wrap my brain around this… Usually people would photoshop MORE definition not take definition away. Wtf.” – patrickkevinsays

“The saddest thing about it is it buys into the fear that women who lift are too bulky/manly to be conventionally attractive. Women still need to be soft and curvy (but still thin) to be beautiful. Even the fittest woman on earth doesn’t have the ‘ideal’ body shape so they photoshopped out her amazing abs that allow her to do all the amazing gymnastic movements she’s known for.” – viaaa

Another Crossfit magazine, BoxLife, posted…

Post by BoxLife Magazine.

WOD Talk magazine was a little more subtle with their jab at the cover and posted…

Post by WOD Talk.

As I was finishing this article The Box Editor-in-Chief posted a response on Facebook. I couldn’t help put do a face palm in horror at the opening, “My name is Jordana Brown, and I’m the editor-in-chief of The Box magazine. Before everyone looks at my profile and starts doubting, I’ll tell you this: I don’t have a robust profile here because I hate Facebook. I hate Facebook because I don’t trust it.” Way to embrace the fans/readers ON FACEBOOK while they are going bat shit crazy over your latest cover. It doesn’t matter if YOU like Facebook or not, it’s the medium you chose to post your latest cover on. Any who…

Jordana defends the cover by saying, “A professional photo shoot with an experienced photographer who uses camera angles and poses the athlete to compose a shot, along with expert lighting, hair and makeup, will result in photos that look completely unlike anything you might find from a Google image search. In fact, it was our intent to show you a Camille you haven’t seen before — and to prove that beauty and strength coexist in her perfect body.”

Very true however the same professional photographer was used for previous covers. The same photographer used “expert lighting” and “camera angles” to compose every previous cover shot. So that’s a ridiculous statement in defense of the image. Jordana isn’t wrong in the statement but wrong to use it as a defense for this cover and for this athlete. The same athlete they’ve shown on the cover before. Oh right, I forgot they wanted to show “a Camille you haven’t seen before” and “prove that beauty and strength coexist”. They accomplished the first part but how ridiculous on the second part. Everyone who has followed Camille (cough, cough your magazine readers and those commenting on the social media platform you hate) knows she embodies strength and beauty. They didn’t need to see a poorly photoshopped image to know they coexist. And back to that pesky photoshop topic. Jordana defends it by sharing, “Did we do some color correction and use Photoshop on the image? Yes. Did we airbrush or retouch Camille’s abs, legs, muscles? No. Did her body need any work? No. Do we regret having done anything at all? Yes.”

Only those who have seen the RAW, unedited image will know for certain what was done to it. At this point does it matter? The readers aren’t stupid and regardless of what was done or not done to the image it doesn’t reflect the buying audience of The Box. They clearly don’t give a crap about seeing The Fittest Woman on Earth in a swimsuit on the beach. You might want to buy the issue since I’ll bet it’s the first and last time you see a beach / swimsuit cover.

What can we learn from The Box Backlash?
Don’t play readers and fans for fools.
Strong is sexy.
Strong is beautiful.
Be authentic.
Crossfitters hate photoshop badly photoshopped images.

Also of note, no one (myself included) is bashing or blaming Camille for the cover. Some people have questioned “how could she allow this” and “how would she approve this cover”. When you shoot for a magazine (this goes for a model and photographer) you have no idea what image will run and how it will be used. Cover images are often swapped out a dozen times before going to print. Many times right before press there will be a completely different image or even a new model.

Camille is strong. Camille is beautiful. Camille is a bad ass.

Check out her instagram account and you can follow her strength and beauty as she presents it.

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Great lifting session doing 2 hang clean every 2 minute for 8 sets… This is 220pounds felt quite heavy at the end … #gettingstronger #lifting #pink #strenght #ryourogue #xendurance @roguefitness @reebok @rehband @xendurance @fitmarkbags @paleopowermeals

View on Instagram

Filed Under: Crossfit, HINDSight, News & Features

2014 IFBB Border States Pro Competitor List

September 29, 2014 by

2014 Border States

The 2014 IFBB Border States Pro will be the first qualifying event in the Figure division for the 2015 Figure Olympia. The event will take place on Saturday, October 4, 2014 in San Diego, California. Currently, 18 women are signed up to compete and there’s no clear cut favorite. Allison Frahn and Julie Mayer are coming off the Figure Olympia and your likely favorites if you were forced to pick one. Krista Dunn is also coming off the Olympia and has been competing pretty much all year. It will be interesting to see how her physique looks after so many shows. Tamara Sedlack has slowly but steadily moving up in the ranks and with some rest could be one to watch for a top spot.

2014 IFBB Border States Pro Competitors
Nancy Bowlin
Shalako Bradberry
Kim Clark
Marci Colliau
Darcy Defrees
Jennifer DeJoya
Jill Dunn
Krista Dunn
Dawn Fernandez
Allison Frahn
Vanessa Jacobs
Kimberly Jones
Sidibe Khoudeidji
Julie Mayer
Karen Noorlun
Sherlyn Roy
Tamara Sedlack
Josie Zamora

Filed Under: Show Previews

2014 IFBB EVLS Prague Pro Competitor Lists & Hardbody Preview

September 29, 2014 by

Prague Pro

This weekend the IFBB Pro Bikini competitors will be back on stage for the second qualifying event towards the 2015 Olympia. Over the weekend the first show of the new pro calendar year (the Korea Pro) took place with Ashley Kaltwasser winning.

This weekend the odds on favorite heading into the show looks to be India Paulino who finished third in Korea. She’ll have her work cut out for her as the European competitors are no joke. While some praise the “new version” of India’s posing, I’m not fan. She’s brought in a better look to her physique recently and the over-the-top posing detracts from it. If she let’s the bod do the talking she’ll be cashing a first place check. If she thinks she’s auditioning for SHOWGIRLS, she’ll be on the outside of the winner’s circle. Christina Strom Fjaere didn’t finish in a top spot at the Olympia however it was just her second pro show ever. She won her pro debut and has a look that will undoubtedly get noticed. Look for her to be in the mix at the Prague Pro. Noemi Olah is a likely contender for the top spot and you can never rule out Lacey DeLuca to be in the hunt for a top five finish. Jessica Arevalo has been competing all year and it will be a test to see how her body looks at yet another show. Aly Garcia has yet to hit her groove this year but with some rest she could come into this lineup and shake things up, if she doesn’t try and new hair styles or goofy poses. Michelle Brannan is looking to get back in the top spots and will need to nail the little details like her posing, tanning and makeup. Margret Gnarr has a great look and if she brings a similar presentation to this stage that she did at the Arnold, she should be a top callout contender.

The 2013 Prague Pro Bikini winner Vladmira Krasova is not currently on the list but if she does enter she’ll be one to watch for the top spots.

The competition takes place on October 4, 2014 in Prague, Czech Republic. The Bikini competitors will share the stage with the Men’s Open and 212 Bodybuilders.

2014 IFBB EVLS Prague Pro Bikini Competitors
Valeria Ammierato
Jessica Arevalo
Michelle Brannan
Lacey DeLuca
Christina Strom Fjaere
Aly Garcia
Margret Gnarr
Noemi Olah
India Paulino
Jessica Renee
Sofia Tandilian

2014 IFBB EVLS Prague Pro Bodybuilding Competitors
Jon DeLarosa
Dalibor Hajek
Johnnie Jackson
Tomas Kaspar
Jeno Kiss
Steve Kuclo
Juan Morel
Shawn Rhoden
Aliaksei Shabunia
Mike Sheridan
Fred Smalls
Daniel Toth
Roelly Winklaar
Dennis Wolf

2014 IFBB EVLS Prague Pro 212 Bodybuilding Competitors
Baito Abbaspour
Ahmad Ahmad
Peirre Chamoun
Guy Cisternino
Flew Lewis
Terzo Mirsad
Lee Powell
Jose Raymond
Andre Regestein
Vicente Santamaria

Visit evlspraguepro.com for more information.

Filed Under: News & Features, Show Previews

Iris Wins Record 10th Olympia Title – 2014 Ms. Olympia Results

September 20, 2014 by

Iris Kyle won a record 10th Olympia title at the 50th Olympia. Full report coming but check out who finished where in the Ms. Olympia contest and check out photos on bodybuilding.com.

2014 Ms. Olympia Results
1. Iris Kyle
2. Alina Popa
3. Debi Laszewski
4. Alana Shipp
5. Yaxeni Oriquen-Garcia
6. Anne Luise Freitas
7. Sheila Bleck
8. Jennifer Sedia
9. Rita Bello
10. Margie Martin
11. Christine Envall
12. Lisa Giesbrecht
13. Simone Oliveira

Filed Under: News & Features, Olympia

Nathalia Melo on Sitting Out the Bikini Olympia

September 14, 2014 by

Nathalia Melo
I was asked by a few people, “why did you leave Nathalia out of your Bikini Olympia predictions?” Well, Nathalia is a very good competitor but it will be tough for her to win her second Olympia title when she’s watching from the audience. I’ve read a variety of comments speculating why Nathalia isn’t competing this year so I decided to go straight to the champ herself and find out what’s up. Check out what Nathalia had to say about sitting out the Olympia, retirement chatter and more. As always, Nathalia is shows her humorous side and why she’s one of the most popular women in the industry whether she’s on stage or not.

Nathalia Melo on Sitting Out the Bikini Olympia

Where ya living these days?
In planes and airports. LOL… Just kidding I am living in Belfas-Northern Ireland.

How often do you travel?
At least twice a month, and since mid-August until a week before Christmas I will be on the road every weekend working for my sponsors, Nutrex Research and Better Bodies. Plus I’m doing my “Nathalia Melo Stage Ready Seminars” and “Melofit Camps”.

Some rumors floating around about you not competing in the Olympia this year. Let’s tackle those…

Are you pregnant?
No… no babies here. Well… I did get a dog, if he can count as a baby. =)

HA! Good one. Are you out of shape and not able to pull it together?
Yup! Been living on cake and ice cream for the past few months. Hahaha… just joking! I better stop it before people think it is true. But, on a serious note now when you are in this industry it is vital that you stay in shape, not necessarily contest shape but at least photo shoot ready. I have been doing shoots for my sponsors and have a few photoshoots lined up for the Olympia weekend. So, no… I didn’t get morbidly obese.

You’ve got jokes.

My decision to not do the Olympia this year started when I had a very bad injury on my back, which was around the time I had to make de decision whether or not I was going to compete at the Olympia. Plus, I have been super busy with my seminars and camps so I am trying to focus more them (I have done seminars and camps in nearly 20 different countries). And to top it all off, I am also planning my wedding. So, with so much going on I thought it would be best to sit out of this one.

You’re planning a wedding soon?
I am wedding planning at the moment. MADNESS!!

So you retired?
No. I am not ready to play Bingo on a daily basis, yet.

HAHA! Now that we got those out of the way…

Will you be at the Olympia and if so where can people see The leader of the Melo Mafia?
I wouldn’t miss the Olympia weekend for anything! I surely will be there! I will be at Nutrex Research and Better Bodies booth on both days, and at Bodybuilding.com booth on Friday.

You’ve been doing lots of seminars. Any of those planned after the Olympia?
Yes. Many of them planned for after the Olympia. In Russia, England, Italy and the U.S. to name a few places.

You’re also part of a book coming out with other champions. What can people expect to find in your profile?
I am pretty freaking excited to be put in a book with so many women who I admire and all the female legends of the Bodybuilding. In my profile I share my workouts, diet and a few tips on things I have learned over the years.

nathalia melo

Lastly, what bit of advice would you have for the rookies competing in the Olympia for the first time?
Enjoy the ride, the moment and be very very very proud of yourself for stepping on that stage. Regardless of your placing, always remember that not many can say that have competed at the Olympia. Oh… and take LOOOOOOADS of pictures backstage, they are such great memories!!

Thanks Nathalia! Follow Nathalia on instagram, Facebook and twitter.

Filed Under: News & Features, Olympia

ASP Becomes the World Surf League

September 12, 2014 by

World Surf League

Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP) will become World Surf League (WSL) in 2015. Five-Time World Champion Stephanie Gilmore shared, “Changing the name to the World Surf League is about taking the sport to more people, to broaden the audience, to let people understand that this is the place for professional surfing.”

Kelly Slater, 11-time World Champion, is on board with the name change as well. Slater joined Stephanie and others in a video. “I like the idea of changing ASP to the World Surf League. The ASP isn’t exactly self-explanatory.”

ASP CEO Paul Speaker released a letter to the community along with a video regarding the announcement.

To the ASP community,

At the start of the 2015 season, we will change our name to the World Surf League (WSL). We’re making this change because we believe the new name is easier to understand, and gets us on a better track to serve our fans, athletes and partners, and to grow the great sport of professional surfing worldwide.

There’s been a lot of change in the last two years. Part of it you can see, such as new venues and enhanced live broadcasts. Some of it is behind the scenes. All of it is driven by the twin goals of preserving the heritage and culture of surfing while, at the same time, creating an even better foundation to grow our sport in the future.

We want you to know that changing our name was a carefully considered decision for us. We felt it was important to share this idea with as many people in the ASP community as we could, from athletes to past world champions to event partners. In the end, we were greatly comforted by the fact that not a single person we spoke with opposed changing names to the World Surf League. Not one.

This is a decision we’ve made with our community and you can see their reactions for yourself.

We understand that for many of you reading this, the letters “ASP” have significant meaning and that this news might be unsettling. We hope you will give us the benefit of the doubt and that, over time, you will come to see this change as positive for the sport we all love. At the end of the day, professional surfing’s DNA remains intact: we’re about the world’s best surfers in the world’s best waves. That will never change.

From day one, our commitment to you has been that we will do everything in our power to improve the overall experience for fans, athletes and partners. Of course, we still have a lot of work to do, but we are confident that we are heading in the right direction.

We want to salute everyone upon whose shoulders we stand, from the creators of the ASP to their forefathers at what was originally known as the International Professional Surfers (IPS). It was the hard work of all of these people that provided the platform that we all share today and it is with them, and with you, that we look forward to ushering in the new era of the World Surf League.

Sincerely,

Paul Speaker
Chief Executive Officer

For more visit www.aspworldtour.com.

Filed Under: News & Features, Surfing

Hardbody Bikini Olympia Poll, Preview and Predictions

September 12, 2014 by

2014 Bikini Olympia

The 2014 Bikini Olympia is entering its fifth year of existence. Every year there’s been a new champion crowned. Sonia Gonzales was the first and then Nicole Nagrani. Nathalia Melo won the third crown and last year Ashley Kaltwasser took top honors. So who will it be this year? Will Ashley be the first to repeat or will history repeat itself? We’ll find out next week but one thing is for certain the top six is up for grabs and as we’ve seen in the past anyone can end up in the mix.

See who is in the Olympia, who is sitting out (hint she won the Olympia once) and who the leading contenders are in my bodybuilding.com preview. Vote for who you want to win the 2014 Bikini Olympia in the poll below.

Filed Under: Olympia, Polls

Serena Williams in New Wireless Headphones Ad

September 10, 2014 by

serena williams beats
Watch Serena Williams workout in this newest ad from Beats By Dre. The ad show the number one tennis player in the world working out in wireless headphones with the track “Black Unicorn” playing in the background. You don’t have to be a tennis fan to appreciate the hard work she puts in to build her hardbody. The Beats wireless headphones sound like a great idea, especially when you consider they’ll run you about $200 and tend to short out where the wire that connects to your device.

Serena Williams is the #1 female tennis player in the world. Watch her train as only she can in Powerbeats2 Wireless from Beats by Dre. Nothing Stops Serena.

Powerbeats2 Wireless combine the emotion of Beats and the power of wireless, to allow athletes to be free to train and play as hard as they can; however they want to. Nothing stops.

Beats by Dre Powerbeats2 Wireless Earphones: http://www.beatsbydre.com/earphone/be…

Track: Black Unicorn by 2 Chainz f. Chrisette Michele and Sunni Patterson

Screen captures from the video of Serena Williams for Dre Powerbeats2.

Via Youtube

Filed Under: Ad Watch

Under Armour Ad: Gisele Bündchen – I WILL WHAT I WANT

September 4, 2014 by

Brilliant. Bravo Under Armour.

Gisele Under Armour

Gisele Bündchen – I WILL WHAT I WANT
Gisele knows what it means to live under the microscope, amongst the noise of contradicting opinions. But will beats noise.

Watch Gisele face real-time commentary now at: http://iwillwhatiwant.com/gisele

#IWILLWHATIWANT

Via YouTube.

Filed Under: Ad Watch, Celebrity Fitness

Under Armour Signs Brazilian Model Gisele

September 2, 2014 by

under armour signs gisele

Under Armour took the internet by storm with the launch of their new “I WILL WHAT I WANT” campaign. The first ad, featuring Misty Copeland, has 5.8 million views on Youtube and counting. The campaign was universally accepted by men and women of all ages. It’s encouraging. It’s empowering. A virtually unknown athlete was thrust into the limelight. It sparked discussion on a whether a dancer/ballerina was an athlete.

Under Armour is sure to spark more debate and be in the news this week once again. This morning a teaser video was posted on their official Youtube channel announcing they’ve signed Gisele Bündchen. Known usually as just “Gisele” the model and to sports fans as Mrs. Tom Brady. Tom Brady has endorsed UA since 2010 and now his wife will join the team.

Gisele certainly doesn’t need to rely on Tom for money. According to FORBES, the 34 year-old is the world’s highest-paid model (a title she’s held for 8 years in a row) making $47 million a year.

In a tweet this morning, Gisele shared she is “proud to join and celebrate strong women everywhere.” Hard to argue with that train of though regardless of if you’re a fan of hers or not, right?


According to the announcement/teaser video we’ll find out on September 4th what UA has in store.

The announcement is already causing controversy on social media. Some are excited. Others not so much. Comments are coming in fast and furious on espnW’s Facebook page and as you might expect they vary from the positive to the not so encouraging.

“I think Gisele can do whatever she wants. I also think that if she’s active, in shape and living a healthy life – her participation past or present in athletics is irrelevant. There is a growing number of women that are participating in healthier lifestyles that were not athletes as young people and those of us that were athletes should stop making fun of them.”

“She does Kung Fu, yoga and lives a really active healthy outdoor lifestyle so I think it’s a good fit to grow UA’s women’s segment.”

“She may be a fashion model, but everyone who puts on under armor clothing is not an ‘athlete’. Aren’t we supposed to applaud all types of women? She is another type of woman. I don’t think her modeling UA would want me to buy it, but no reason to hate her or UA for this deal.”

“Gisele, the not athlete, will be a model for athletic clothing. Cause that makes sense”

“and the rich get richer! Why not use an unknown, someone we can relate to!”

“It’s about fashion now as opposed to sports. Guess I will no longer fit their clothing.”

Cast your vote and join the conversation on espnW’s Facebook page and on our Facebook page and twitter as well.

Lead image compiled via Under Armour Youtube.

Filed Under: Ad Watch, Polls

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