The Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue has been published since 1964. Some of the most popular models have graced the SI Swim cover over the years from Cheryl Tiegs, Elle Macpherson and Christie Brinkley to Heidi Klum and Tyra Banks. Elle Machperson has the most covers to her credit with five.

Every year there’s some sort of buzz around the models and not only who made the cover but also who was left out. Fans of athletic females tend to point to fitness models and wonder why none of them are featured. The rationale you’ll find it all over the place. If you’re looking for athletic women featured in a magazine, you’re better off picking up ESPN The Magazine’s Body Issue. While it’s more the exception than the norm, there have been female athletes featured in the magazine over the years. The majority of the athletes featured have been tennis players with Steffi Graf, Serena and Venus Williams, Maria Sharapova and Anna Kournikova all being featured in the magazine. In the 2010 issue, Winter Olympians Hannah Teter, Lindsey Vonn, Ana Ivanovic, Lacy Schnoor and Clair Bidez were featured.

This year two female athletes are featured in the magazine. Tennis star Caroline Wozniacki and UFC champion Ronda Rousey. While it’s not surprising to see a tennis athlete featured it is highly unusual to see a mixed martial artist in the swimsuit issue. Rousey has become one of the most popular fighters in the UFC. She’s without question the most popular in the women’s division but she’s arguably becoming the most recognized in the entire organization. She’s has roles in the Expendables and has an upcoming part in Entourage the movie. Rousey’s stock continues to rise as she dominates inside the octagon and will looks to do so again later this month (Feb. 28th) when she fights Kat Zingano.

Rousey shared a few of the images on her Facebook page and shared, “I purposely tried to get a little bit heavier for the SI issue so I was a little bit curvier and not in top fight shape look but the look at which I feel I’m the most attractive. It’s very natural for a person’s body to go through seasons.”

While Rousey lacks no confidence in her fight game she admitted, “I’m not the best model in the world. I try my best.” She goes on to share in a behind the scenes video, “Strong and healthy is the new sexy.”

Ronda reminded everyone that those photos were taken months ago, as common with every magazine, and she currently has other matters at hand. If you’re thinking of talking negatively about her photos or her decision to appear in the magazine, watch the clip below before you do…

Okay enough of the swimsuit pics for now… Those were taken months ago – this is what I'm really up to #UFC184 training camp – ready to defend my belt once again #feb28

A video posted by rondarousey (@rondarousey) on Feb 9, 2015 at 5:41pm PST

Check out Ronda and all the women in this year’s SI SWIM issue.

Photos via Sports Illustrated by Walter Looss Jr.

Under Armour announced it has created the largest digital health and fitness community with the acquisitions of Endomondo and MyFitnessPal. Under Armour acquired MapMyFitness in December of 2013 and since then the company has focused on building “the largest Connected Fitness platform”. MapMyFitness has roughly 31 million registered users. In January of 2015, Under Armour acquired Endomondo (purchase price $85 million) which has around 20 million registered users. Most of Endomondo’s users are based in Europe and 80% of its base outside of the U.S. This will help Under Armour expand their base worldwide.

Last week, Under Armour Announced it will acquire MyFitnessPal for a purchase price of $475 million. MyFitnessPal is described as, “the leading resource for healthy living and nutrition with over 80 million registered users.” This will allow Under Armour‘s Connected Fitness platform to include nutritional resources.

The newest acquistions will be part of Under Armour’s recently announced UA Record.

NEWS RELEASE

Under Armour Acquires Endomondo and MyFitnessPal to Establish the World’s Largest Digital Health and Fitness Community
Baltimore, MD (February 4, 2015) – Today, Under Armour (NYSE:UA), a global leader in sports performance and innovation, announced the acquisition of Endomondo and MyFitnessPal, establishing ownership of the world’s largest digital health and fitness community. These acquisitions, which supplement UA’s existing MapMyFitness and UA RECORDâ„¢ suite of applications, will further enable the brand to provide unparalleled health and fitness data and insight, in support of its universal mission to make all athletes better.

Powered by more than 80 million registered users, MyFitnessPal is the leading free resource for achieving and maintaining health and fitness goals, providing nutritional information for over five million foods and offering caloric data associated with hundreds of exercises, empowering its community to make better, more informed healthy-living decisions. MyFitnessPal will expand the current offerings from UA Connected Fitnessâ„¢ to include comprehensive nutrition tools, allowing users to track calories, nutrition and exercise.

Meanwhile, Endomondo is an open fitness tracking platform and social fitness network connecting athletes throughout the world. Utilizing GPS and other advanced technologies, Endomondo provides users with the ability to map, record and share their workouts. Endomondo currently hosts 20 million registered users, approximately 80% of which are located outside of the U.S., providing immediate scale and increased international presence for the Under Armour Connected Fitnessâ„¢ community.

“Under Armour’s demonstrated global leadership in health and fitness innovation is greatly enhanced with the addition of Endomondo and MyFitnessPal, as we continue to redefine and elevate the Connected Fitness experience for millions of people around the world,” said Kevin Plank, Chairman and CEO of Under Armour. “Similar to MapMyFitness, Endomondo and MyFitnessPal have established track records of unmatched equity, expertise and passion in the fitness and nutrition space, and they are ideal partners to enable Under Armour to provide data-driven, proactive solutions to help athletes of all levels lead healthier and more active lifestyles.”

With the acquisitions of Endomondo and MyFitnessPal, Under Armour continues to strengthen its position at the forefront of the connected fitness space and advances its goal of delivering game-changing solutions to how athletes and fitness-minded individuals train, perform and live.

Combined with the growth of MapMyFitness, these acquisitions will expand Under Armour’s Connected Fitness community to include more than 120 million registered users.

“At MyFitnessPal, user success is our true North,” said Mike Lee, Co-founder and CEO of MyFitnessPal. “Under Armour will bring vast health and fitness expertise and resources to our 80 million users to help guide them as they work to achieve their health goals.”

“Endomondo has built an engaged global community of fitness enthusiasts, providing a strong technical platform for our users, while adhering to our core belief that social interaction and support are key motivators when it comes to getting fit and maintaining a healthy lifestyle,” said Mette Lykke, Endomondo Co-Founder and CEO. “We share in Under Armour’s passion for innovation, as well as its mission to make athletes better, and we look forward to better serving the needs of athletes around the world.”

As a wholly-owned subsidiary of Under Armour, Endomondo will continue to operate out of its headquarters in Copenhagen, Denmark. Following the anticipated closing of the acquisition in the first quarter of 2015, MyFitnessPal will continue to operate out of its headquarters in San Francisco, CA.

For additional details on the acquisition, see related press release titled, “Under Amour Reports Full Year Net Revenues Growth of 32%; Announces Creation of World’s Largest Digital Health and Fitness Community.”

Under Armour was advised by Goldman, Sachs & Co. and the law firm King & Spalding LLP in connection with both acquisitions, as well as the law firm Kromann Reumert in connection with the acquisition of Endomondo. Endomondo was advised by the investment banking firm Mooreland Partners and the law firm Mazanti-Andersen Korsø Jensen. MyFitnessPal was advised by the investment banking firm Qatalyst Partners and the law firm Fenwick & West LLP.

About Under Armour, Inc.
Under Armour (NYSE: UA), the originator of performance footwear, apparel and accessories, revolutionized how athletes across the world dress. Designed to make all athletes better, the brand’s innovative products are sold worldwide to athletes at all levels. Under Armour’s wholly owned subsidiary, MapMyFitness, powers one of the world’s largest Connected Fitness communities. The Under Armour global headquarters is in Baltimore, Maryland.

About MyFitnessPal
With over 80 million users, MyFitnessPal has helped millions of people achieve and maintain a healthier and happier lifestyle. With a database of over 5 million foods and hundreds of exercises, top fitness technology partners and community insights, MyFitnessPal is the leading free resource for achieving and maintaining health goals. MyFitnessPal is headquartered in San Francisco, CA. For more inspiration, visit www.myfitnesspal.com.

About Endomondo
Founded in 2007, Endomondo’s social fitness network and popular Endomondo Sports Tracker mobile app help turn a smartphone into a personal trainer and social motivator. Now with 20 million registered users around the globe, Endomondo lets people track workouts, analyze performance, and support each other so people become and stay active. For more information, visit www.endomondo.com.

The largest fitness event on the West Coast, the LA Fit EXPO kicks things off this weekend at the Los Angeles Convention Center. The event is headlined by online powerhouse Bodybuilding.com and presented by Subway Restaurants and Body Fortress. The event will take place on February 7-8 and feature a monster sized expo with a number of companies providing free samples, insight and more. Last year’s event saw nearly 50,000 people attend and this year should be bigger than ever.

“We are committed to bringing Los Angeles another top fitness event with the eminent fitness leaders in the country, plus exciting programming and exhibits,” said Erin Ferries, Executive Director of National Fitness Productions. “After last years’ record breaking attendance of 49,000, we have added an additional 90,000 square feet to accommodate the ever-expanding exhibit floor and to make more room for new competitions and performance areas.”

DOWNLOAD & PRINT THE 2015 FIT EXPO COUPON FOR $10 OFF

This year the organizers of the Fit Expo have partnered with ParkME to provide attendees with parking options near the Convention Center. If you’ve ever attended an event in the area you know parking can be a royal pain. You can reserve a parking spot now and receive 15% off the regular price. Just use the code FITEXPO when you’re checking out. is year we have partnered with ParkMe to provide you with parking options near the Convention Center. If you reserve your parking spot now, you can save an additional 15% off the regular parking price! Just use the online code FITEXPO when you are checking out HERE. This is a great idea and let us know if you use it.

News from the #LAFITEXPO

THE FIT EXPO LOS ANGELES TICKET INFORMATION:
Your ticket includes admission to the giant exhibition floor filled with over 150 guest celebrities and cutting edge companies displaying, promoting and selling fitness, health and well-being products and services. Your admission ticket also includes FREE admission to ALL 24 competitions taking place on TheFitExpo floor! Don’t forget to check out the FREE seminars, demonstrations and celebrity autograph sessions and grab all the FREE samples. Many of our exhibitors are offering super-cool products at discounted prices so be prepared for the shopping action. It’s non-stop fun for the entire family and it is ONLY $25 a day or $40 for both days!

When you order in advance, print your computer generated ticket at home and bring it with you. Come to the PRE-PURCHASED TICKET booth at registration, and we will scan your ticket(s) for entry in the TheFitExpo. Please note that digital coupons on smartphones, tablets, or any other electronic device will not be accepted under any circumstances. Tickets will of course be available at the door. Please do not buy tickets from anywhere other than our website or our registration desks as all tickets are scanned for one time use.

THE LA FIT EXPO TICKET PRICES
February 7, SATURDAY: $25
February 8, SUNDAY: $25

WEEKEND PACKAGE: SATURDAY & SUNDAY: $40
Kids tickets, 12 and under, will be $10 a day at the door only.
Kids 6 and under are free.

THEFITEXPO LOS ANGELES SHOW HOURS:
Events in South Hall of The Los Angeles Convention Center
Saturday February 7, 2015 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM
Sunday February 8, 2015 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

WHERE IS THE LA FIT EXPO:
The Los Angeles Convention Center
1201 South Figueroa Street
Los Angeles, CA 90015

Visit www.TheFitExpo.com for more information. Use the hashtag #LAFitExpo in all your social media and follow the official account of The Fit Expo for all the latest updates on twitter @TheFitExpo and on Facebook.

It’s no secret that print magazines have been faced with many challenges, especially in the fitness industry. As advertisers move their ad dollars to online and social media avenues, print magazines have struggled. We’ve seen the number of issues reduced, paper quality dropped and many times the same photos and articles are being recycled. Fitness magazines are often their own worst enemies. It’s not that print is dying, it’s more the case of magazine failing to offer something unique and fresh.

Today Meredith Corporation announced it has acquired popular women’s fitness magazine, SHAPE from American Media Inc (AMI). Meredith has acquired not only print but also the digital assets to Shape, Natural Health and Fit Pregnancy brands. Meredith will begin publishing SHAPE with the May 2015 issue and combine it with their existing Fitness magazine. Fitness magazine will no longer be printed but its website will continue to operate separately from SHAPE’s website. Subscribers of Fitness magazine will be receiving SHAPE with the May issue. Meredith will stop printing Fit Pregnancy and Natural Health magazines but will continue with an online presence with both titles.

The news of this sale could be foreshadowing with other AMI titles. Don’t be surprised to see Men’s Fitness, Muscle & Fitness, Muscle & Fitness HERS and/or Flex sold this year. It wouldn’t be shocking to see Muscle & Fitness HERS cease to exist sooner than later. The writing is on the wall, in my opinion, when Meredith purchased the three other brands in AMI’s Women’s Active Lifestyle Group but not HERS. Meredith likely saw little value in the HERS assets and opted not to acquire them. The only other option for HERS is to be packaged with big brother Muscle & Fitness magazine and attempt to sell them together.

**Update**
The New York Post is reporting the sale of SHAPE, Fit Pregnancy and Natural Health was for “$60 million in cash, plus future profit-sharing” according to their sources.

NEWS RELEASE:

Meredith To Acquire Popular Shape Brand From American Media
Merging Fitness Magazine into Shape to Create Leading Media Brand in Women’s Active Lifestyle Category
NEW YORK and DES MOINES, Iowa, Jan. 28, 2015 — Meredith Corporation (NYSE:MDP, www.meredith.com), the leading media and marketing company serving more than 100 million unduplicated American women, announced today that it has reached an agreement to acquire Shape magazine and the digital assets of the Shape, Natural Health, and Fit Pregnancy brands from American Media (AMI).

Meredith introduces an updated market positioning and logo that reflect the strength of Meredith’s national and local consumer media brands as well as its expanded portfolio of marketing solutions.

Meredith will begin producing Shape magazine with the May 2015 issue, with current readers of Shape and Meredith’s Fitness magazine receiving the new and enhanced Shape magazine. Shape will have a rate base of 2.5 million, an increase of 60 percent from its current level of 1.6 million. The Shape and Fitness websites sites will continue to operate as separate digital destinations, with a combined reach of almost 7 million unduplicated unique monthly visitors.

“The acquisition of Shape establishes Meredith as the leader in the women’s active lifestyle media category,” said National Media Group President Tom Harty. “It increases our reach among millennial women to over 23 million, creating an unmatched opportunity for advertisers to connect with this highly-valued audience across multiple media channels.”
Shape magazine covers exercise, beauty, nutrition, health, fashion, wellness, and other lifestyle topics to help women lead a healthier, active lifestyle. It is the category leader and has a median household income of $87,000 and median age of 39, the youngest in the category.

Tom Witschi, President of the Meredith Women’s Lifestyle Group, will oversee the new brands. The digital brands and related assets will report to Jon Werther, President, Meredith Digital. In addition, Galvanized LLC will be working with Meredith on the newly combined Shape and Fitness.

“We’re excited that David Zinczenko and his team from Galvanized will continue to oversee the editorial and brand vision for Shape to ensure stability and continued quality throughout the transition,” Witschi said. “David has been the acting Editorial Director for Shape at AMI, and he and his team bring an unsurpassed expertise in the healthy, active lifestyle field, as demonstrated by their success in building Men’s Health; the launch of Women’s Health; and the recent award-winning re-launch of Men’s Fitness.”

“As Shape joins Meredith’s Women’s Lifestyle Group, it is poised to build upon it’s extraordinary position as the category leader in both ad pages and circulation to deepen connections with its audience, while reaching out to new ones,” said David J. Pecker Chairman and CEO AMI. “We couldn’t be more proud of the work of the editors and publishers who have helped build Shape into the industry-leader it is today, and I look forward to seeing it continue its remarkable success at Meredith in the years ahead.”

Financial terms were not disclosed. The transaction will be accretive to Meredith’s fiscal 2015 financial performance. Meredith will provide more detail when it reports its fiscal 2015 second quarter results on January 28, 2015.

The acquisition of Shape is the latest in a series of acquisitions, launches and alliances for Meredith’s National Media Group including:
• A 10-year licensing agreement with Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia to acquire the rights to Martha Stewart Living, Martha Stewart Weddings and www.marthastewart.com media properties.

• The launch of the award-winning Allrecipes magazine, which followed the acquisition of Allrecipes.com. Last week Meredith raised the rate base of Allrecipes to 1.1 million.

• The acquisition of leading digital destinations, including the growing website www.mywedding.com and native and engagement-based digital advertising leaders Selectable Media.

Additionally, over the last three years, Meredith has acquired the Eating Well, Family Fun, Every Day with Rachael Ray, Parenting and Baby Talk brands. In spring of 2015, Meredith plans to launch Parents Latina, an English-language magazine with a ratebase of 700,000 targeting millennial Hispanic moms.

“We continue to strengthen our focus on the important areas of home, family, food and health,” said Meredith Chairman and CEO Steve Lacy. “This acquisition strengthens our portfolio in both the print and digital space, and is consistent with our Total Shareholder Return strategy to pursue investments that scale our business and increase shareholder value.”
Meredith has also been executing a strategy to expand its broadcast television footprint. In the last year, Meredith’s Local Media Group has completed or announced the acquisition of television stations in Phoenix, St. Louis, Mobile-Pensacola and Springfield (Mass.).

“We continue to look for strategic acquisitions, partnerships and investment opportunities like these to expand our reach and create additional shareholder value,” said Meredith Chief Development Officer John Zieser.

ABOUT MEREDITH CORPORATION
Meredith Corporation (NYSE: MDP; www.meredith.com) has been committed to service journalism for more than 110 years. Today, Meredith uses multiple distribution platforms – including broadcast television, print, digital, mobile and video – to provide consumers with content they desire and to deliver the messages of its advertising and marketing partners.
Meredith’s National Media Group reaches an audience of over 230 million monthly, including 100 million unduplicated women and 60 percent of American millennial women. Meredith is the leader in creating content across media platforms in key consumer interest areas such as food, home, parenthood and health through well-known brands such as Better Homes and Gardens, Parents and Allrecipes. The National Media Group features robust brand licensing activities, including over 3,000 SKUs of branded products at 4,000 Walmart stores across the U.S. Meredith Xcelerated Marketing is a leader at developing and delivering custom content and customer relationship marketing programs for many of the world’s top brands.
Meredith’s Local Media Group includes 17 owned or operated television stations reaching 11 percent of U.S. households. Meredith’s portfolio is concentrated in large, fast-growing markets, with seven stations in the nation’s Top 25 – including Atlanta, Phoenix, St. Louis and Portland – and 13 in Top 50 markets.
Meredith’s balanced portfolio consistently generates substantial free cash flow, and Meredith is committed to growing Total Shareholder Return through dividend payments, share repurchases and strategic business investments. Meredith’s current annualized dividend of $1.73 per share yields approximately 3.5 percent. Meredith has paid a dividend for 67 straight years and increased it for 21 consecutive years.

SOURCE Meredith Corporation

Top male fitness model and motivational speaker, Greg Plitt was struck and killed by a Metrolink train on Saturday. Greg was reportedly filming near train tracks when he was struck by a Metrolink train in Burbank, California. He was 37 years old.

Greg was known for his intense, no-excuses attitude in the industry. He appeared on multiple magazines covers and ads over the years. Despite his intense approach in the gym, Greg could often be seen smiling and signing autographs at various fitness events. He was always willing to take a photo with a fan and offer some motivational advice. He’ll be greatly missed. Rest in Peace Greg.

“It’s your life, your book…”

“Give credit where it’s due.”

The news has everyone in the fitness industry in a state of shock. As news continues to spread, friends, fans and colleagues share their thoughts. Follow the conversation on twitter at #ripGregPlitt what some of the people are sharing after learning of the tragic news.

#ripgregplitt Tweets

“I am in disbelief and heart broken to hear of Greg Plitt’s passing today. frown emoticon He was always someone who would go the extra mile for his friends and he loved the fitness industry like no other! Greg had so many great things going on in his life right now, so to have his life end so quickly, hit by a train as he was filming a spot for his protein shake, is just gut wrenching! Michael and I will miss you greatly, dear friend! We are praying for everyone you have left behind. There will be a void in the fitness industry and the whole world without you.

Isaiah 41:10 – Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

– Jamie Eason, Fitness model

“I am deeply shocked and saddened at the loss of my friend and teammate Greg Plitt. I was looking forward to working with him in a few weeks at our first appearance together for 2015.

Greg was by far one of the hardest working, self-motivated and inspirational individuals I have ever met. I will never forget how passionate he was when he was talking to fans- he had a way of making you believe anything was possible if you wanted it bad enough. That life was too short to wait around wishing for things to happen- to go out there and take a chance.

I will miss hearing about your crazy adventure stories, the next big business project and just joking around at the shows. I am forever grateful for all of the personal and business advice you have given me over the years. You were an amazing human being.

Rest in peace.”
– Nicole Wilkins, 4x Figure Olympia Champion and Met-Rx athlete

“I can’t believe this. I can’t. Greg Plitt has passed away today. I’ve worked with Greg since 2003, and he was one of the kindest souls I’ve known. He always went head first into everything he did, and he did it to the best of his ability. Michael Lyons just spoke with him a few days ago. He did a taped submission for us for the TV show Bones. Mike and I discussed how awesome it would be if we booked him something big right before the Arnold Classic. Greg was more than just a model and actor. He changed so many lives for the better whether it was helping them with fitness or fixing up their house. You may not know, but Greg was an expert craftsman. He lived right around the block from me down in Arlington VA. I used to love going to his place to watch TV in his “mancave”. The world has lost a good soul today. An amazing friend and an amazing soldier. God bless him and his family.”
– Adam Silver, Silver Models

“It is with a heavy and tragically sad heart I inform you that Greg Plitt was killed today by a train in Burbank..

Greg was the sole individual who got me into the fitness industry, gave me guidance that serves as the foundation of my success today. Though a friend, he was truly someone I admired, had unyielding respect and love for. I really can’t even put words together right now to accurately articulate everything he meant to me… I will touch on this tomorrow.

The world lost a true hero today…. I really have no words, just pain, confusion, sadness…”
– Joe Donnelly, Fitness model

Greg recently starred in the Bravo reality series “Friends to Lovers”.

Lead photo via Greg Plitt’s Facebook.

World of X Games Presents Aspen Preview – Saturday, January 17, at 3 p.m. ET/ 1 p.m. PT on ABC

Tune into World of X Games this Saturday, January 17 for a special episode on “Aspen Preview” airing at 3 p.m. ET/1 p.m. PT on ABC.

Saturday’s one-hour episode will preview X Games Aspen 2015 and highlight some of the top moments with X Games commentator Brandon Graham and analyst Craig McMorris, as they dive into the major story lines for X Games Aspen as well as examine the award-winning lineup of musical acts and festival village experience. Featured athletes will include seven-time X Games snowmobile medalist Levi LaVallee, X Games Snowboard Slopestyle bronze medalist, Gus Kenworthy, Sochi Olympic Snowboard Slopestyle gold medalist Sage Kotsenburg, X Games Mono Skier X gold medalist and Sochi Paralympic gold medalist Josh Dueck and 14-year-old Snowboard SuperPipe phenom and X Games silver medalist, Chloe Kim.

The World of X Games is a weekly program on ABC and ESPN platforms, which features a variety of X Games and athlete-focused content. For the most updated schedule and information on World of X Games, go to www.xgames.com. Check local listings for additional details.

Joseph Santos officially welcomed as IFM Media Inc.’s Vice President of Operations
OAKVILLE, ON – IFM Media Inc., publisher of Inside Fitness and the Inside Fitness Women’s Training Guide, is pleased to announce that Joseph Santos has been appointed to the position of Vice President of Operations, effective immediately.

With over 20 years of management experience, including 15 in the technology channel, Joseph brings with him a wealth of knowledge from across many different industries. Past roles held by Joseph include Internet Architect at Robert Kennedy Publishing, former publisher of Oxygen and MuscleMag, and Technologies Manager for Sherson Group, parent company of Nine West. In these roles he was responsible for large-scale, company-wide projects that thrust these respective associations into the digital realm, including the creation and maintenance of several digital properties at RKP as well as establishing Nine West’s first e-commerce solution.

Joseph’s talents in both the IT and operational landscapes will lend heavily to the development of the growing Canadian publishing company,which announced in late 2014 that they will be publishing a total of 12 issues per year beginning in 2015.

Terry Frendo, CEO and Publisher of IFM Media, is confident that Joseph’s skills will be of valuable asset to the team as they head into yet another groundbreaking year. “I have known Joseph personally and professionally for over a decade,” he says. “Inside Fitness has experienced exponential year-over-year growth since its inception, and Joseph’s expertise in digital communications will help us to further our domination as a publishing force to be reckoned with.”

About Inside Fitness Magazine
Inside Fitness is Canada’s #1 fitness magazine, published by IFM Media Inc., one of the fastest-growing publishing companies in the nation. The magazine is a collaboration of some of the brightest and most knowledgeable fitness, health, injury-prevention, and bodybuilding experts in the industry, including Brent Bishop, Tommy Europe, and many more. You can subscribe at www.insidefitnessmag.com, and follow the magazine on its Facebook page (facebook.com/insidefitness), Twitter (@inside_fitness), Instagram (@inside_fitness), and on the magazine’s dedicated YouTube channel (insidefitnessTV).

DENVER, Colo. (January 12, 2015) – First Descents, a non-profit that provides life-changing outdoor adventure programming for young adults impacted by cancer, expands its Ambassador Team with the addition of pro surfer Lakey Peterson.

Peterson, who was already surfing competitively by age 11, has proven herself as one of the most progressive and talented females in the sport. At the age of 17, in her “rookie” year on the ASP Women’s Pro Tour, she won the prestigious U.S. Open of Surfing. In 2013, she starred in the critically acclaimed “Zero to 100,” a thrilling documentary about her rise to the top of the sport. Peterson is currently ranked fifth in the world.

“Lakey was introduced to us through our longstanding partnership with Smith Optics and through her personal connection to cancer,” states Sarah Hubbard, director of marketing for First Descents. “Her commitment to giving back, paired with her incredible zest for living life to its fullest is the perfect combination for a First Descents ambassador. We are honored to welcome her into the FD family.”

Peterson has proven that she takes the hands-on type of approach to philanthropy that is ideal for an experiential organization like First Descents. She has helped implement clean water initiatives in 3rd world countries, she supports ocean conservation and education groups and is deeply passionate about raising awareness for cancer through connections to several children’s hospitals in Southern California.

“First Descents uses surfing as a catalyst to help young adults with cancer learn to live again,” says Peterson. “This sport teaches me something about life every time I paddle out. If I can help someone learn to surf as a way to move past this terrible disease and feel strong and capable again, it doesn’t get better than that.”

By joining the First Descents Ambassador team, Peterson will be a spokesperson for the non-profit as well as participate in surfing programs slotted for 2015. Peterson joins an impressive team of athlete ambassadors which includes: pro kayaker, Adrienne Levnecht; renowned climber and yogi, Olivia Hsu; World Cup skier and founder of Soul Poles, Bryon Friedman; AMGA/IFMGA mountain guide, Joey Thompson – as well as community and celebrity ambassadors Ethan Zohn, Ryan and Trista Sutter, and Travis Stork. To learn more about the FD Ambassador Team, please visit www.firstdescents.org.

To learn more about Lakey Peterson or follow her progress on this year’s tour, go to www.lakeypeterson.com.

About First Descents
First Descents is a non-profit organization offering young adults (ages 18-39) with cancer a free outdoor adventure experience designed to empower them to climb, paddle and surf beyond their diagnosis, defy their cancer, reclaim their lives and connect with others doing the same. For more information on First Descents programming, or how to get involved, head to www.firstdescents.org.

Follow First Descents on Facebook.

“I look forward to using HIGHX as a platform to inspire men and women worldwide to embrace healthy living.” – Gabrielle Reece

Pivotal 5, LLC, a proven leader in commercial fitness and wellness solutions, announced that in partnership with Gabrielle Reece, the global launch of HIGHX, powered by Lifeline functional training products. An innovative group fitness program, HIGHX is a high intensity explosive training and conditioning program designed to maximize the body’s ability to burn fat, build muscle, optimize the body’s hormone and physiological response to exercise while improving overall daily and athletic performance. HIGHX is a functional, systematic training format structured into multiple circuits to engage, coach and retain participants and members.

Reece has been a dominant force on and off the pro beach volleyball circuit. As a result of years of personal experience and experimentation for her relentless pursuit to elevate her own fitness led her to create the HIGHX program.

“I look forward to using HIGHX as a platform to inspire men and women worldwide to embrace healthy living” said Reece. “I started training the local community of Kauai, Hawaii a few years ago in a humble converted warehouse. With the goal of providing friends as well as myself the optimal functional training workout, but yet still accommodate a busy schedule, HIGHX training was born. I am thrilled to be partnering with LifeLine to make HIGHX available worldwide.

Lifeline, a fitness leader for over 40 years, continuously develops revolutionary training tools that set the benchmark in professional grade product used for bodyweight, progressive variable resistance and functional training.

“We are very excited to work with such an authentic, contagious, and high profile person as Gabby on the commercial launch of the HIGHX programming,” stated Pivotal 5 President and CEO Adam Schumacher. “The innovation of Lifeline equipment, coupled with the explosive and revolutionary programming of HIGHX is a perfect solution to bridge the gap in functional training.”

For more information on Lifeline and HIGHX visit LifelineUSA.com and HIGHXTraining.com. Lifeline is currently distributed in 24 countries and in over 2000 fitness facilities. HIGHX will launch worldwide in 2015.

About Gabrielle Reece
Dubbed one of the world’s sexiest athletes, former Women’s Beach Volleyball League star and fitness icon Gabrielle Reece, also known as Gabby, possesses a look that conveys both athleticism and feminine beauty. At 6’3”, Gabby is a dominant force on and off the pro beach volleyball circuit. Her commanding presence, passion for healthy living, and fitness expertise makes her a popular public speaker on the subjects of health and wellness. She routinely provides advice and guidance on fitness, nutrition, and active living, via gabbyandlaird.com. An avid proponent of empowering people to take responsibility for their own health, plus truly authentic example of healthy living, Gabby has become a role model to women worldwide regarding how to achieve peak fitness, good health, and overall well-being for themselves and their entire family

About Lifeline
Lifeline, a fitness leader for over 40 years, continuously develops revolutionary training tools that define the benchmark in professional grade products used for bodyweight, progressive variable resistance and functional training. Founded in 1973 by fitness hall of fame icon Bobby “Sugar” Hinds, creator of legendary products such as the first beaded jump rope and the Lifeline Portable Gym, Lifeline continues to be dedicated to defining and developing exclusive exercise tools powered by Innovation.

About Pivotal 5
Pivotal 5 is an industry leader and trendsetter in wellness and handheld fitness products. The company has a dynamic portfolio of products in yoga, prevention & rehabilitation, general fitness, athletic training and specialty fitness categories. Its brands include Natural Fitness, Rejuvenation | Prevent + Perform + Recover, KettleWorX, PER4M and Lifeline. In addition, Pivotal 5 has developed a product line under licensed brand Iron Gym. Pivotal 5 has built a talented, competitive infrastructure focusing on innovative brand/product development, direct to consumer product supply and retail distribution through retail, infomercials and fitness facilities worldwide. More information is available at http://www.Pivotal5.com.

News via gabriellereece.com

Update: The auction ended with a winning bid of US $6,600.00. I’m not quite sure how it dropped from an earlier bid of $8,000 but still a nice haul for charity.

Dana Linn Bailey has become one of the most popular competitors in the IFBB Pro League. She was the first woman to be awarded an IFBB pro card in Women’s Physique and went on to become the first Women’s Physique Olympia champion. She finished in the runner-up position at last years event but failing to defend her title hasn’t hurt her popularity. If anything, it may have helped it.

Having doubts about that? Look no further than a current eBay auction. Dana’s (or DLB as she’s known in the industry) Olympia posing/stage suit went up for auction on eBay on January 5th for $49.99. One day, and 117 bids, later the auction sits at $8,000.00. Yes, you read that correctly EIGHT GRAND. There are still four days left before the auction ends and who knows how high the bidding will go.

Currently sitting at $8k with four days to go on eBay.

Now before you get your undies in a bunch over her selling her suit, you should keep in mind this is a charity auction and it’s being put on by the suit designer, Tamee Marie.

VIA EBAY

YES ITS HER ACTUAL SUIT!! Every year I am blessed to design and make suits for some of the best athletes in the world. For the first time we are going to auction DLBs suit from Joe Wieders 50th Anniversary Olympia last October. All profits from the auction will be donated charity as to New York Bully Crew rescue.

Dana LOVES her pit bulls and both of her little Angels, Kaia and Dboh, were rescued from abusive and neglectful homes. This is an amazing opportunity to purchase the suit of one of the largest icons of the current fitness industry from the 50th Olympia and help an amazing rescue foundation. The suit is in mint condition. This item could used to strut the stage in the same suit as DLB or hung in a shadow box as memorabilia.

**Item will include a personalized autographed photo from DLB showing her in the same suit you are bidding on

Suit size and material information
Fabric: Fuchsia hologram
Stones: Clear, pink, green, turquoise and blue.
Rhinestone Connectors: Around the neck, hips, backstraps and broach
Top Size: A-C top (included is a set of thick removable pads)
Bottom Size: Fit someone 100-120 lbs and best on 5’0″ – 5’5″ frame
**Alternations not available as suit is heavily rhinestoned

Great idea by both Tamee Marie and DLB. In an industry that is often noted for its selfishness, this is a refreshing act of kindness. Doing things like this are part of why DLB is becoming one of the biggest names in the bodybuilding world. Interesting in bidding on the suit? Visit eBay before it’s too late.

The print industry has been struggling in recent years and bodybuilding/fitness magazines have felt the pressure. Many magazines have scaled back on staff and the number of issues they print. Some have gone out of business or tried to go strictly online. Today, Iron Man magazine announced its been sold to Binais and Dr. Catherine Begovic. Binais is a former Iron Man cover model and his wife Catherine, a successful plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills. Catherine is no stranger to fitness and recently appeared on the cover of Iron Man Norway.

@Ironmanmagazine New Cover! On Newsstands in Sweden April 28. Model: The one and only Dr. Cat @beautybydrcat Photo by: Per Bernal

A photo posted by Binais Begovic (@binais) on Apr 4, 2014 at 10:08am PDT

Binais plans to redesign the magazine and website, something many people have felt is long over due. The new owners are slated to unveil their version of Iron Man with the April 2015 issue. Previous owners, John Balik and Michael Nevuex are expected to continue working with the magazine. Balik as a consultant and Neveux as a photographer and Design Director. No word on whether long time writers Lonnie Teper and Ruth Silverman will stay on board. Iron Man magazine has been one of the longest running magazines in the bodybuilding/fitness industry. All the best to the new owners.

Beverly Hills, CA (PRWEB) January 05, 2015 – Iron Man Magazine, the world’s leading bodybuilding and fitness magazine and the fitness world’s pillar of information for training announced today that entrepreneur Binais Begovic and his wife Dr. Catherine Begovic have purchased the company. Iron Man Magazine was founded by Peary and Mabel Rader in 1936. It was then purchased by John Balik and Michael Neveux in August of 1986 with Mr. Olympia Lee Haney on the cover. Iron Man Magazine was created to be a source of inspiration, information and transformation for the fitness industry. 79 years later it is still driven by those core values. Iron Man Magazine licenses to countries all over the globe including Japan, Australia, Sweden, Norway, and Italy.

Binais Begovic, a fitness athlete himself who was featured as a cover model for the magazine in 2006, brings a deep passion for weight training and scientific nutrition. Begovic was born in Montenegro and fled with his family to Sweden as a teen when war erupted in his native country. Begovic is an athlete ranking nationally in Judo and other fitness competitions. After winning competitions in Europe, he came to Los Angeles to shoot for fitness magazines and became an integral part of the fitness world. “Being on the cover of Iron Man Magazine and being featured in the magazine was one the critical moments in my career. It gave me credibility, international exposure, and was the launching point to expand my love of fitness into other businesses.” Begovic’s goal with the magazine is to make effective training and nutritional information accessible to everyone. “In a world where the Internet makes it confusing for people interested in fitness, Iron Man Magazine is the one place they can always turn to for credible information as well as up to date news, and the insiders’ look into the fitness industry.” He also would like to use it as a platform to launch new athletes into their fitness careers and provide opportunities for fitness enthusiasts to participate in a community where they can share ideas. Begovic’s vision for Iron Man Magazine is also to highlight other popular divisions such as Bikini and Men’s Physique in additional to traditional bodybuilding. Begovic is planning a re-design of the magazine, a re-launch of the website with informational articles and videos, as well as other events centered on the core values of “inspiration, information, and transformation.”

The launch of the re-designed Iron Man Magazine under the new ownership is projected to be the April issue 2015. The past owners John Balik will be retained as a consultant to the Publisher, and Michael Neveux as photographer/Design Director.

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — No one in the sports world had heard of the 2014 Associated Press Female Athlete of the Year until August.

That’s when 13-year-old Mo’ne Davis became an instant celebrity as she took the mound in the Little League World Series and mowed down batter after batter, giving “throw like a girl” a whole new meaning.

She was the first girl to win a Little League World Series game, and her performance dazzled fans young and old. Her steely gaze and demeanor on the mound were intimidating, while off-the-field, she shined in interviews. She told admirers that if they thought she was good at baseball, they should see her play hoops. Only in eighth grade, Davis already plays for her school’s high school varsity basketball team.

Davis appeared on the cover of Sports Illustrated, has her jersey displayed in baseball’s Hall of Fame and was named Sports Kid of the Year by Sports Illustrated Kids.

She met the Obamas at the White House, starred in a Spike Lee-directed car commercial (the NCAA said it wouldn’t hurt her eligibility), marched in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade along with her Taney Dragons teammates and presented Pharrell Williams with Soul Train’s “Song of the Year” award.

The talented three-sport star — she also plays soccer — and honor student from South Philadelphia handled all the attention with poise, modesty and maturity.

“A lot of adults around me help out, taught me to be respectful, to be calm during everything and not let anything get to you,” Davis said after learning of her latest honor.

A vote by U.S. editors and news directors selected Davis as The Associated Press 2014 Female Athlete of the Year. The youngest winner in history, Davis beat out Mt. St. Joseph freshman Lauren Hill — who played her first college basketball game while battling terminal brain cancer — and three-time winner Serena Williams. The selection was announced Monday.

Davis tossed a two-hitter to help Philadelphia beat Nashville 4-0 in the Little League World Series opener for both teams. Davis, the first girl to appear for a U.S. team in South Williamsport since 2004, had eight strikeouts and didn’t walk a batter. Her team was eventually eliminated after losing to teams from Las Vegas and Chicago. Davis gave up three runs in the Las Vegas game, and could not take the mound against Chicago because of pitch limits.

After the tournament, Davis was everywhere.

She threw whiffle balls to Jimmy Fallon on NBC’s Tonight Show, threw out the first pitch at Game 4 of the World Series and signed a book deal.

“It’s been really fun, got to do a lot of things, meet a lot of cool people,” Davis said. “My favorite thing to do was playing in Williamsport or going to the White House. (The Obamas) just seemed like a regular couple, no different from anyone else.”

While others are still talking about her Little League performance, Davis, a point guard, is concentrating on basketball.

“It’s making me a lot better, helping me make decisions,” Davis said of playing varsity. “In middle school, I can get away with small things. The girls now are a lot taller so I’m working on my jump shot and ball handling a lot.”

Davis aspires to play for the University of Connecticut and reach the WNBA. She plays midfielder on her soccer team and hopes to play three sports in high school, though she’s not sure about baseball.

“I know the boys will be much stronger so that depends,” she said. “Hopefully, I can continue playing as long as I can.”

Davis isn’t just a jock. She excels academically despite such a great demand for her time.

“It’s all about time management, how you plan your projects and not waiting until the last minute,” she said.

Steve Bandura, a recreation leader for the Philadelphia Parks and Recreation Department and director of the Anderson Monarchs sports programs, has helped coach Davis since she started playing sports. His son, Scott, was the catcher for Taney. Bandura said Davis has maintained her “natural personality” no matter how many cameras or microphones are in her face.

“She’s still the same person, still a kid who wants to do kid things,” Bandura said. “She has fun meeting celebrities and all that but the bottom line is she loves to play sports, go to school and have fun. The adults make a bigger deal out of it. Her teammates understand she’s breaking down barriers and they’re proud of her. They’ve been together so long, it’s like she’s their sister.”

Davis knows she has become a role model.

Her message to everyone, especially girls: “Always follow your dreams. If there’s something people tell you that you can’t do it, go for it.”

via Associate Press.

Rihanna Named Global PUMA Ambassador
Herzogenaurach, Germany (16 December) – Today, PUMA and Global Cultural icon Rihanna, announced a new multi-year partnership, kicking off in January 2015. Rihanna will become PUMA’s global ambassador for Women’s Training and serve as the PUMA Women’s Creative Director, bringing her styling sensibilities and innovation to PUMA’s collections. Embodying everything that PUMA stands for, Rihanna’s unstoppable spirit, creative energy and prowess both on and off the stage, make her the perfect representation of the PUMA brand.

Through this partnership, Rihanna will be the face of PUMA’s Women’s Training category. Fans can anticipate PUMA and Rihanna taking a fresh, forward thinking and non-traditional approach to sports, fitness and lifestyle – fusing Rihanna’s personality, love of sports, spirit and style into the growing footwear and apparel segment. No stranger to breaking the mold with beauty, fashion and lifestyle trends, Rihanna, with PUMA’s support, will bring her personal touch and creativity to the athletic world.

Rihanna will also assume the role of PUMA’s Creative Director for the category, directly influencing product collections as early as 2015, and working in partnership with PUMA’s Internal Product Creation team. These collections will be designed with the goal of strengthening women in training sessions and beyond, and inspiring confidence in their bodies and themselves – the exact confidence for which Rihanna is so well known and celebrated. As part of her role, Rihanna will work with PUMA to design and customize classic PUMA styles as well as create new styles to add to the PUMA product portfolio.

Speaking about the new partnership with PUMA, Rihanna said: “It’s great to find a brand that celebrates strength and individuality. I couldn’t think of a more perfect partner to collaborate with as a creative director. I’m excited for you to see what Puma and I come up with.”

Rihanna will play a starring role in PUMA’s brand campaign, Forever Faster and be featured along with many of PUMA’s world-class athletes such as Usain Bolt and Sergio Aguero. PUMA and Rihanna will launch several fan activations throughout the partnership around the world such as consumer and retail events, training and fitness related social media content, and product programs.

Bjørn Gulden, CEO at PUMA commented: “Signing Rihanna is a fantastic step for PUMA. Her global profile, her charisma and individuality, her ambition – all these things make her a perfect ambassador for our brand. She also aligns perfectly with the values PUMA strives for: to be Confident, Brave, Determined and Joyful. With a strong portfolio in football, running and motorsport, finding an inspiring partner for women’s training was very important. Rihanna was a natural choice for us. We’re delighted to have her as a partner, and we’re looking forward to what’s to come.”

Adam Petrick, Global Brand & Marketing Director for PUMA said, “Rihanna brings joy to audiences around the world but also ignites and awes. PUMA admires her for never waiting for the next big thing, but more so for driving what happens next – in fashion, style, music and soon to be – sports. We can’t wait to empower women worldwide with Rihanna – she demonstrates a body confidence and determination that is the exact representation of the PUMA Woman.”

Anxious to learn more? Follow PUMA and Rihanna’s journey on Instagram (@PUMA and @badgalriri), Twitter (@PUMA and @rihanna) and Facebook (facebook.com/PUMA and facebook.com/Rihanna) and online at www.puma.com and www.rihannanow.com.

Story and images courtesy of PUMA.

**This post contains affiliate links and we will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on the links.

The women’s UFC Bantamweight Champ, Ronday Rousey continues to kick ass and collect checks. Rousey shared the news of her signing with Reebok on twitter, while her male counterpart Jon Jones took to Instagram. Jones chose to dance with joy at the news of signing with Reebok, this after was released by Nike earlier this year.

Matt O’Toole, Reebok President told UFC.com, “Not only are Ronda and Jon admired by millions of UFC fans, but they also are among the fittest, most disciplined athletes in the world, and an inspiration to the millions of people around the globe who train like fighters.”

Find out more of Ronda’s favorites like the Reebok Womens LM Bodycombat.

Today Jones posted a much happier video.

 

I’m telling you guys – big things are coming! Stay tuned to me and @Reebok. I’m officially a Reebok athlete. #TeamReebok #YesIdidthepeeweeHerman #KendrickLamar #UFC #Levels @KendrickLamar

Een video die is geplaatst door Jon Bones Jones (@jonnybones) op Dec 12, 2014 at 8:19 PST

Rousey then posted…

 

You’re not the only one dancing today, @JonnyBones. Check it out. I am #TeamReebok. An official @Reebok athlete! pic.twitter.com/BlYqMVPBwF — Ronda Rousey (@RondaRousey) December 16, 2014

Ronda is quoted on UFC.com, “From the very beginning, it was clear to me that Reebok is passionately invested in our sport and its athletes. The team is committed to helping push our sport forward and I am proud to be part of it. Reebok understands what tough fitness means for women and what women need for their fitness lifestyle. Together we’re going to inspire even more people to train like fighters.”

Reebok Womens LM Bodycombat