All Posts By Muscle Insider

6 Reasons Why You’re Stuck At Size Medium

Reasons Why You’re Not Seeing Results
Many people join a gym to build muscle and grow bigger but most of them drop off the fit lifestyle after they don’t see the desired results. Building muscle is easier said than done, and this is why many people can’t make any progress.
Even though gyms see people from various walks of life, a majority of them fail for the same reasons. In this article, we’ll share with you the mistakes that could be holding you back.
Not Eating Enough

If you think you’re doing everything right but still aren’t seeing results, there’s a high probability that your diet is to be blamed. If you want to get big, you can’t do it without eating big.
No matter how hard you train in the gym, if your diet and recovery aren’t on point, you are going to be stuck in the same spot forever. Remember – you break muscle while you’re inside the gym and build them when you’re outside.

Overlooking the Hard Exercises
You probably know someone who only performs exercises they’re comfortable doing. These people call it a day when it’s time to perform hard compound exercises like squats, deadlifts or bench presses.
Machine exercises are easy but they won’t help much in your goal of adding muscle mass. To stimulate your muscles, you’ll have to step outside your comfort zone and try exercises with the potential for progressive overload.

Obsessed with the Details
There are no shortages of people who will tell you the “correct” way of performing an exercise. They’ll go as far as to tell you the direction your pinky finger should be pointing towards while performing the shoulder side lateral raises.
We urge you to stop obsessing about such minute details. Don’t take us wrong, we’re not saying that form doesn’t matter. All we’re saying is that tilting your hand by a degree isn’t going to make any difference.
Switching Training Too Often
In the age of the internet, many people want quick results. If they don’t see results, they change their training programs within a week. Anyone who develops a physique or level of strength worth admiration usually went through an evolution that molded their training into what it is today.
While you mustn’t let your muscles get used to your workouts, switching things up so often is not going to get you anywhere. You should learn and stick with the basic principles in your initial years.

Avoiding Failure
Overtraining is one of the most misunderstood terms in the fitness industry. Many people avoid training to failure because they don’t want to overtrain their muscles. The truth is that most people are not capable of training with the intensity that is required to hit the overtraining state.
It won’t be wrong to say that training with brutally hard effort is a lost art. You should cultivate the mindset of training like it’s going to be the last set and rep of your life. Train with intent, go for PRs and you’ll see the results.
You Don’t Maintain A Journal
One of the biggest mistakes people make is that they don’t keep a training journal. Without a journal, it’s near impossible to remember how many sets and reps you performed in an exercise.
Don’t worry, you don’t have to keep a physical journal with you in the gym. You can use your phone’s notes app to jot down the number of sets and reps you performed, the weights you used and your feelings.

What shirt size do you wear? Let us know in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook and Twitter.

Mr. India Bodybuilder Jagdish Lad Passes Away Due To Covid-19

As the situation deteriorates in India due to the second wave of the novel coronavirus, a bodybuilding star has lost his life. Jagdish Lad breathed his last on April 30 in a hospital in Vadodara, Gujarat.
The 34-year old bodybuilder was on oxygen support in his final four days. There has been a shortage of hospital beds, ventilators, life-saving medicines, and medical oxygen in India as the number of COVID-19 cases in the country is hitting a new record high every day.
Coming From Humble Beginnings

Jagdish Lad came from a small village, Jundal, in Sangli District but moved to Navi Mumbai to work on his bodybuilding career. He represented India and his native state Maharastra in various bodybuilding competitions.
Jagdish Lad’s impressive physique won him many titles. His biggest achievements include winning the Bharat Shri title and earning a silver medal at the 2014 WBPF World Championship in the 90 kg men’s category.
The Deadly Virus
The new strain of the virus is proving to be deadly in India. Lad was not the first Indian bodybuilder to have succumbed to COVID-19. Manoj Lakhan was another bodybuilding rising star who left too soon.
Jagdish Lad retired from competitive bodybuilding in 2017 and moved to Baroda, Gujarat where he set up his own gym. Although Jagdish had quit competing, he hadn’t left the fitness lifestyle. At his gym, Lad focused his time and energy on coaching people.
Hard Last Year

Like many other people, the global pandemic brought trouble for Jagdish. He struggled to keep afloat financially after the coronavirus first struck India in 2020. His gym business took a hit while India was under a strict lockdown for two months.
Jagdish’s financial condition was so bad that he couldn’t pay his house rent. Lad’s landlord didn’t permit them to vacate their house without clearing their dues.
Many people in India are still taking the pandemic lightly. Jadish and Lakhan’s deaths should be seen as a warning. Even bodybuilders, who are said to have a higher immunity because of their fit lifestyle, healthy diet, and all the health supplements they take, are not safe from this virus.
Adieu
Jagdish Lad was a star of the upcoming bodybuilding scene in India. He was earning a name for himself in the coaching circles and continued contributing to the industry until his last days. Lad will remain an inspiration for young Indians looking to compete in the industry.
Jagdish is survived by his wife (also suffering from COVID-19) and daughter. We at Generation Iron offer our deepest condolences to Lad’s family, friends, and fans.
We also urge our readers in India to stay safe, get vaccinated at the earliest opportunity, and take all the necessary precautions.

For the latest news and updates, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

Arnold Strong: Why The Arnold Press Seriously Works Shoulder Strength

Get boulder shoulders like Schwarzenegger himself with his popular shoulder exercise.
For those looking to get into bodybuilding, or even those who just appreciate the commitment a bodybuilder has towards the sport, there is no better role model to look towards than Arnold Schwarzenegger. The bodybuilding icon has paved the way for the future of bodybuilding with seven Mr. Olympia titles and a name that most everyone recognizes. His hard work in the gym and dedication to the sport has offered so much to competitions and aspiring athletes, but the Arnold press shoulder exercise has revolutionized how aspiring bodybuilders and gym-goers work to get boulder shoulders.
A simple yet unique variation on the traditional overhead dumbbell press, the Arnold press varies ever so slightly with a slight twist of the dumbbells as you raise over your head. Schwarzenegger’s effective spin-off of this traditional shoulder exercise has come to be a staple in many bodybuilders’ training books as they seek to be just like Arnold himself. As a monster exercise for building strength and size, it will promote explosiveness and power, allow you to use increased weight, and improve your ability to remain tight with great tension.

As you look to hit your strength-training and weight loss goals, many exercises will work for your overall benefit. For those looking to get muscular shoulders and strong, powerful arms, the Arnold press is a must to work your delts and get mountains instead of mole hills.

Muscles Worked
The Arnold press is a great all-around shoulder exercise because it hits all three parts of your shoulders. By hitting the deltoid, it offers that rounded physique that everyone looks for to really make their arms pop and get their front looking great. The medial head will promote strength, thickness, and width and serve as a solid middle muscle for physique but also shoulder stabilization.

To hit the posterior head on the backside, this will promote many solid functions that your body relies on including joint stabilization, posture, and overall strength and functionality for big lifts. Since this exercise has great range motion and more time under tension, all of these muscles really feel the burn and your overall performance will shine through (1).

Arnold Press Vs. Overhead Shoulder Press
These two exercises are very close in nature when it comes to the main intended goal of each. The Arnold press and overhead shoulder press can both be done either standing or sitting, but each require lifting dumbbells over your head in efforts to get those boulder shoulders. The difference is slight in the way you rotate the dumbbells over your head as you perform the Arnold press. The overhead press has your palms facing forward and in one motion you lift the weight from your shoulders over your head in one stride.
The Arnold press requires you to start with your palms facing towards you and as you lift the dumbbells overhead, there is a slight rotation so your palms face outward as you perform the continuous stride to the top. As your elbows drop in front of your body, it requires more work on the anterior delts, very similar to that of a front raise. Although it is a slight difference in movement, that rotation makes all the difference when it comes to muscle activation, range of motion, and time under tension (2).
Pros & Cons of the Arnold Press
The Arnold press is a unique exercise in that it will act as a combination of two shoulder exercises simultaneously as one. With elements of both the shoulder press and the lateral raise, this will offer an exercise for greater range of motion giving you a great stretch that other shoulder exercises do not provide. With greater range of motion, muscle gains become easier to achieve because the muscle is stretched to a longer length allowing for more room for the muscle to grow.

Since the Arnold press requires more activation from your forearms, the strain put on by the exercise requires lighter weight to be used, which actually isn’t a bad thing. Using lighter weights will allow you to focus more on mind-muscle connection and improve overall form so when those heavy weights do come calling, you will be more than ready. While the overhead shoulder press does allow for heavier weight, the Arnold press will force you to nail down the basics and really work the foundations of muscle building so your growth can become a reality.
While this exercise is great, it is taxing on your shoulders and can lead to increase risk of injury down the road. Since this requires a rotation on each rep, that internal muscle rotation can be something to avoid when possible (3). Using lighter weight and making sure you do not over rotate the weights is a great place to start to keep the integrity of your shoulder joints and muscles intact.
How to Perform the Arnold Press
Sit on a 90-degree incline bench with your feet planted and back against the pad. Grab two dumbbells and have your palms face in as you hold them at shoulder height. Engage your core and lift the weights overhead. As you start to lift, rotate your palms so they face away from you. Pause at the top and gently lower back to the starting position rotating your palms back to facing you as you do.
Wrap Up
The Arnold press was a staple in Arnold Schwarzenegger’s shoulder routine and it can be in yours too. As a great shoulder exercise for overall size and strength, this will work your range of motion, explosiveness and power, and work to target all three heads of the shoulder. A unique variation of the overhead shoulder press, this exercise is one to highly consider when looking for overall shoulder growth. Safety is key so it is important to start light and not over rotate to keep the integrity of your shoulders healthy, but all in all the Arnold press is one of those exercises to really promote boulder shoulders.
Let us know what you think in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. 
*Images courtesy of Envato
References

Carmichael, Stephen W.; Hart, Dennis L. (1985). “Anatomy of the Shoulder Joint”. (source)
Waller, Mike; Piper, Tim; Miller, Jason (2009). “Overhead Pressing Power/Strength Movements”. (source)
Eichinger, Josef K.; Rao, Meghana V.; Lin, Jackie J.; Goodloe, Jonathan B.; Kothandaraman, Venkatraman; Barfield, William R.; Parada, Stephen A.; Roche, Christopher; Friedman, Richard J. (2020). “The Effect of BMI on Internal Rotation and Function Following Anatomic and Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty”. (source)

Why Loaded Carries Build Optimal Functional Strength

Loaded carries are a great way to build muscle and strength while getting rid of stubborn fat.
Many exercises build muscle, increase your strength, target range of motion, and provide for overall functional output. But the exercises that do all of the above are ones you should be targeting to maximize growth and optimal functional strength. While those exercises that involve a bilateral stance are very beneficial, loaded carries are even better, for they require minimal equipment and can work to boost your overall training program and results.
Loaded carries are compound exercises, meaning they require a wide range of muscle to do work, target core engagement, and improve the body’s overall performance when it comes to running, walking, and posture support. They are also great grip strengthening exercises to encourage proper lifts and positioning. With many variations and tons of combinations to try, loaded carries will really put the functional into practice.

What Are Loaded Carries?
Loaded carries are some of the best total body exercises and are considered “game-changing” in the fitness world. They require you to load a weighted implement, such as a barbell, and walk for a set distance or certain amount of time. Working nearly every muscle, they are the ultimate functional exercise, meaning they improve strength, build muscle, enhance stability and promote solid conditioning to see a huge increase in your overall performance and ability to function properly in daily life (1).

Since carrying is an important part of all human activity, loaded carries seem to be lost in the world of big lifts like the squat, bench press, and deadlift. While many people can lift big weights, and others can move quickly, it is rare to see both done at the same time and as efficiently as possible. This is where loaded carries really come into play.

Benefits of Loaded Carries
Promote Muscle Growth & Increase Strength
Since you spend a lot of time under load with a loaded carry, this puts stress on muscular hypertrophy leading to growth (2). Whether you perform a loaded carry for a brief time or for longer periods, this can really induce stressors for growth. By working multiple muscles at once, you target each in their own way to develop strength in those muscle groups. Since they require so much balance, your core really feels the work and will develop strength as well as your grip, which is often overlooked.
Develop Conditioning
Increasing your work capacity and performing these for a set distance or amount of time will work to promote greater lung capacity and overall aerobic conditioning. This will allow you to work harder and for longer expanding on your not only your muscular endurance but endurance as a whole (3).
Increase Stabilization and Balance
As a compound exercise, loaded carries require you to move as efficiently as possible. With many muscle groups at work, your stabilizing muscles are asked to provide support, not only for those larger muscles, but for overall balance and stabilization as well (4). Core, hip, and spinal stability are all targeted to support the movement and prevent any injuries that may arise.
Enhance Functionality
Lifting to get big and look good are reasons to want to stay active. That desired physique can give you confidence and help improve overall performance. But functionality should also be important with your lifts as everyday life requires us to be fully functional with every activity (5). Loaded carries will build that strength for whatever movements you need it to, but also provide or anything you need in daily life, even if its as small as carrying the groceries.

Loaded Carries & Exercises
Farmer’s Walk
Farmer’s Walks are perfect for forearm and grip strength and will strengthen your core and hips to provide for great stability. Choose your desired weight in dumbbells or kettlebells and hold each in one hand. Walk for a set distance or for time and watch your progress increase. Whether it be light, moderate, or heavy weight, each can enhance growth and functionality.
Suitcase Carry
A fantastic spin-off of the Farmer’s Walks, the Suitcase Carry can get your heart rate going, target grip strength, and provide for overall functional strength and endurance. In one hand, hold a dumbbell or kettlebell with your desired weight. The imbalance of this will force you to engage your core for added stability. Walk for a set distance or time, switch the weight to your other hand, and repeat the process.
Rucking
Rucking, or using a weighted backpack, is a basic exercise to burn calories, boost endurance, and perform a loaded carry exercise with less risk of back pain or injury. Place the weighted backpack on and begin a walk of a set distance. You can run with this as well for the added cardio challenge.
Zercher Carry
Similar in grip position to a Zercher squat, this shifts the load onto your erectors, lats, and core. Place a barbell in the pit of your elbows with your arms crossed in front of you. Engage your core and perform this for your desired distance or time.
Overhead Walks
Overhead Walks will improve overhead stability and get you comfortable with having big weight over your head. Working your traps and shoulders for muscle growth, it relies on your core to keep your back stable with the increased overhead load. Lift a barbell or dumbbells over head and extend your arms. Maintaining good form with your core and shoulders, perform this exercise for a set distance or time.
Wrap Up
Loaded carries are exercises not used enough in training programs. As a compound movement, they work multiple muscle groups at once while also strengthening stabilizer muscles and working on conditioning. Simple to assemble yet challenging to do, loaded carries will work for your overall functional benefit both in the gym and out of it. Try any of these exercises or variations and see what loaded carries can do for you when it comes to muscle growth, increased endurance, and optimal functional ability.
Let us know what you think in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. 
*Images courtesy of Envato
References

Butcher, Scott J.; Rusin, John S. (2016). “Core Strength and Functionality with Loaded Carries”. (source)
Baz-Valle, Eneko; Schoenfeld, Brad J.; Torres-Unda, Jon; Santos-Concejero, Jordan; Balsalobre-Fernandez, Carlos (2019). “The effects of exercise variation in muscle thickness, maximal strength and motivation in resistance trained men”. (source)
Khosravi, Maryam; Tayebi, Seyed M.; Safari, Hamed (2013). “Single and Concurrent Effects of Endurance and Resistance Training on Pulmonary Function”. (source)
Williams Jr., Martin R.; Hendricks, Dustin S.; Dannen, Michael J.; Arnold, Andrea M.; Lawrence, Michael A. (2020). “Activity of Shoulder Stabilizers and Prime Movers During an Unstable Overhead Press”. (source)
Weiss, Tiana; Kreitinger, Jerica; Wilde, Hilary; Wiora, Chris; Steege, Michelle; Dalleck, Lance; Janot, Jeffrey (2010). “Effect of Functional Resistance Training on Muscular Fitness Outcomes in Young Adults”. (source)

How To Do A Smith Machine Deadlift

This deadlift is great for building strength but also some serious stability.
The deadlift is one of the big three exercises in powerlifting. It can also be one of the most dangerous to perform. That’s why you should consider the smith machine deadlift. With the smith machine, you can perform the deadlift safely and still earn the incredible benefits of this compound exercise. When done correctly, the smith machine deadlift can be one of the most effective exercises in your workout arsenal. This article will go into detail about everything you should know to perform the smith machine deadlift.
Deadlifts are an essential part of training, especially for those in powerlifting. As a seriously massive lift, you can grow strength and size in your back and legs, while also promoting great balance and stability to aid in other big lifts and sport specific movements. Using a smith machine can help keep you safe as well as maximize range of motion, something essential and worthwhile for all your gains in the gym.

What Is The Deadlift Exercise?
The deadlift is a classic bodybuilding exercise. The deadlift uses mostly the back muscles and the legs but has a relatively high risk of injury. When performing a deadlift, you hold the barbell with your arms straight in front of your body and you bend the knees to bring the weight up as you drive. Most lifters must also complete a set of reps for the deadlift exercise before performing another set. Why use the smith machine? The smith machine deadlift is an exercise where you can put on your workout gloves and perform your lift in relative safety, safe from injury and without having to lift large weight in a power rack (1).

How To Perform A Deadlift Safely
The deadlift is an exercise that can get you injured in a variety of ways. The most common and most dangerous is when you overextend your lower back and when you allow your weight to get too far forward. If you have been practicing the deadlift correctly, you will have mastered the basics. But it’s still possible to work your way into a more advanced version.
The smith machine can be a good addition to your training routine, especially if you are doing deadlifts in the gym. Not only will this be a safer way to perform the deadlift, you can use the smith machine to work your glutes and hamstrings without placing your spine at risk. The power rack is one of the most dangerous pieces of equipment in the gym. This is because it is too easy to lose your balance or fall over the barbell.

The Smith Machine Deadlift
This is the main exercise in the Smith machine. It can be performed either with knees or with toes elevated and will mimic both forms of deadlifts. The smith machine will help you to develop a compact, muscled physique while allowing you to lift heavier weights than you could with a barbell.
The smith machine will help you to perform a full range of motion with the lower body. The smith machine deadlift benefits more muscle! You’ll be able to activate more muscle fibers by using the smith machine.

What Is The Difference Between A Smith Machine Deadlift & A Free Weights Deadlift?
The difference between a free weight and a Smith machine deadlift is much like the difference between two barbells: free weight deadlifts require more control. They require you to be fully in control of your body and of the weight you are lifting. On the other hand, in a smith machine deadlift, you can place your body weight on the platform as long as it is just above your hips. This is also why smith machines are easier to do at the gym versus at home. You can also think of a smith machine deadlift like a barbell deadlift but with less weight. You may be surprised how much less weight you can use when using a smith machine. Don’t worry though, it will still be enough to make this exercise a great addition to your training and a viable option for bodybuilding.

Are There Any Risks Or Drawbacks To The Smith Machine Deadlift?
While the smith machine does work a little differently from a standard deadlift, there is still the risk of injury if done improperly (2). The smith machine is a machine, so it can take some getting used to. As such, you should use this machine with caution. If you have any back injuries or weaknesses, you should probably avoid the smith machine altogether. If you have any arthritic issues in your shoulders, you should probably avoid the smith machine as well. If you have any sore muscles after a workout, you should also consider staying away. Finally, if you have certain fears about performing deadlifts, such as having a loose bar, or having a barbell slip out of your hands, you should probably avoid the smith machine altogether.
Wrap Up
The Smith Machine deadlift is not a new exercise. It has been around for a very long time. However, recently the smith machine deadlift has been receiving a lot of positive attention due to the numerous benefits it offers to the gym and bodybuilders. When done correctly, the smith machine deadlift can be one of the most effective exercises in your workout arsenal. Give this exercise a try to really see some huge gains that can come when you perform a massive lift like the deadlift. You won’t be disappointed with the results and your strength goals are just around the corner.
Let us know what you think in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. 
*Images courtesy of Envato

Bird, Stephen; Barrington-Higgs, Benjamin (2010). “Exploring the Deadlift”. (source)
Berglund, Lars; Aasa, Bjorn; Hellqvist, Jonas; Michaelson, Peter; Aasa, Ulrika (2015). “Which Patients With Low Back Pain Benefit From Deadlift Training?”. (source)

Pro Guide For Training Through Lower Back Pain

How To Train Through Lower Back Pain
Whether you train or not, lower back pain and dysfunction are the prices we pay for our modern lifestyle which needs us to be hunched over a computer or phone screen for the majority of the day. Lower back pain can severely limit your training ability and can even take you out of the game.
We would suggest that you don’t push through with your normal workouts on a blind stupor. The good news is, you can fix your back pain and don’t have to complain about it to everyone kind enough to lend you their ears.
Step 1 – Access The Severity

Every back pain is different and will have varying causes, severity, and solutions. While the majority of the back pain cases are due to incorrect posture and prolonged sitting, there are some cases where it’s best to consult a doctor.
If you are having any of the following symptoms, you shouldn’t delay calling your doctor –

Tingling or numbness
Diminishing sensation
Loss of motor control (inability to coordinate voluntary movements)
Loss of bowel or bladder function
Severe immobility- unable to walk

Step 2 – Classify Painful Patterns
The thing with back pains is that they’re not always permanent. Most people experience back pain while they’re doing a particular thing like bending down, turning around at the torso and lifting heavy stuff.
Your back pain can be classified into flexion or extension based intolerance. For flexion-based dysfunction, you should avoid sitting for too long and slouching. Hanging out in an extended spinal position for long durations can exacerbate your extension symptoms.

Step 3 – Say No To Heavy Front Loaded Hip Hinges
People with back problems should stay away from the exercises which exacerbate the tension on the lower back. There are no ways of elevating tension off the lower back while performing these exercises and we recommend not performing them until your back discomfort gets better –

Deadlift
Barbell Row
Good Mornings
Full Range Crunches/Sit-ups
Back Extensions
Low Bar Back Squat
Leg Press

Step 4 – Avoid Direct Spinal Compression
Confused? Let us explain. Direct spinal compression refers to loads placed on top of the spine, for example, a high or lower bar position while squatting. Compressive loading increases the tension on the lumbar spine and increases core instability due to the high center of gravity.
The phenomenon makes it one of the riskiest loaded positions for those recovering from spinal pains. The easiest way to keep the center of gravity low is by placing loads in the hands instead of the shoulders and back.

Step 5 – Use Dynamic Resistance Equipment
The bottom position on compound exercises like the squats, deadlifts and bent over rows place the lumbar spine at its most vulnerable position for injury. Using dynamic or accommodating resistances such as chains and bands can be incredibly effective in maintaining strength and enhancing performance while healing from an injury.
Accommodating resistances provide a slight de-load at the bottom of the movement as the chains coil on the floor and when the bands are relaxed. It also reduces shear forces, poor biomechanics and loss of core stability encountered during the amortization phase.

Are you suffering from back pain? Let us know in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook and Twitter.

2021 Pittsburgh Pro Scorecards

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IFBB Pittsburgh Pro 2021 Results

The Pittsburgh Pro 2021 brings in the first Olympia qualifying event of the season.
The Pittsburgh Pro is one of the biggest events of the year – largely due to being the home location of NPC and IFBB Pro president Jim Manion. Unfortunately, the hype behind this year’s show was a bit muted due to the ongoing pandemic across the world.
Much like last year, the 2021 pro bodybuilding season has gotten off to a slower start due to pandemic. The Arnold Classic 2021 was postponed (planned to now take place in September) – which usually is the first big event to bring in the pro season in earnest.

But that shouldn’t take away from the pro competitors who battle on stage for the Pittsburgh trophy. This event is the first IFBB Pro show of 2021 to qualify for the Olympia 2021. With five divisions all battling it out for the top spots – including the newly introduced Wellness division.
The Pittsburgh Pro 2021 results are now in and you can check it out below:

IFBB Pittsburgh Pro 2021 Results
Classic Physique Results
1. Divine Master2. Sabur Favors3. Dmitrii Vorotyntsev
Men’s Physique Results
1. Kryon Holden2. Raymont Edmonds3. Erin Banks
Figure Results
1. Maria Luisa Dias Pereira2. Christine Stearns3. Heather Dees

Bikini Results
1. Ashley Kaltwasser2. Alessia Facchin3. Lauren Dannenmiller
Wellness Results
1. Angela Borges2. Yarishna Ayala3. Amanda Rezende
That wraps up the IFBB Pittsburgh Pro 2021 results! Make sure to check out our full IFBB Pro results page from this year and previous years right here to catch up on any action you may have missed!

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Hafthor Bjornsson Fights Again May 28, Is More Shredded Than Ever

Hafthor Bjornsson has developed some legit boxing skills.
Hafthor Bjornsson is showing some impressive development in his boxing ability. The 2018 World’s Strongest Man not only has improved his skills, but is also looking more lean and shredded than ever. With his sights set on crushing rival Eddie Hall, Hafthor is stepping back into the ring for another exhibition match on May 28.
Often times when people say they want to test the waters in boxing, you can expect a collective grown from the hardcore boxing community. Many look at these late to the game participants as tourists, simply trying to capitalize on the sport’s popularity. These individuals indeed have a point. There’s no other professional sport, namely basketball, football, or baseball, that one can just “try out.” Perhaps at the lowest levels, sure, but never as high as the NBA, NFL, MLB caliber. Yet for boxing or MMA it’s different.

Many feel that these tourists are simply chasing clout and not really passionate about combat sports. The match between Hafthor Bjornsson and Eddie Hall has been touted as such. Both men, coming over from strongman into boxing, to settle a score with their fists. It has the ingredients of one of those freak show kinds of affairs that no pure boxing fan would ever want to see.
The thing is, both Hafthor Bjornsson and Eddie Hall are taking their training seriously.
The argument can be made currently that Hafthor in particular is looking pretty polished. When he first began training things looked a bit rough. The coordination wasn’t there, the balance, the pop on the punches. Hafthor Bjornsson was nowhere near the caliber of even a novice boxer. His recent training footage however is putting that notion to bed.

Hafthor also announced that his next scheduled exhibition bout will be for May 28 in Dubai. 
Sunday I’m flying out to Dubai for a month in preparation for my next exhibition match. May 28th I will fight again. Don’t miss it! ??

Hafthor Bjornsson has been training very hard for his upcoming fight and the proof is in the pudding. While he’s no Tyson Fury, Hafthor has definitely shown incredible improvement. He’s improved so much in fact that he appears to have some real legitimate boxing ability, showing great form in the clip above. He has a pretty technically sound jab and knows how to throw it with pop.

His footwork should also be commended as well as he looks fluid, sturdy, and balanced now. This recent video may not look like much to the untrained eye, but Hafthor Bjornsson is showing some clear boxing skill. It’s enough to wonder if Eddie Hall hasn’t bitten off more than he can chew. Of Course to know that we’ll have to see the two go to the battle. Until then we should admire the hard work that both men have put in. Hafthor Bjornsson in particular as never looked this shredded before which shows his commitment to the craft.

What do you think of Hafthor Bjornsson and his much improved boxing skills?
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Managing Editor at Generation Iron, Jonathan Salmon is a writer, martial arts instructor, and geek culture enthusiast. Check out his YouTube, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and Sound Cloud for in-depth MMA analysis.

Generation Iron Athlete Big Neechi Joins boohooMAN Clothing Brand

Big Neechi joins boohooMAN clothing brand.
Viral bodybuilding sensation Big Neechi has joined the ranks of the boohooMAN clothing brand. Neechi now joins a team that also include Simeon Panda, Trisytn Lee, Andrei Deiu and many others.

The Strength Wars star known for his viral bodybuilding content has established himself as a popular commodity on social media. Now Big Neechi has joined the ranks of boohooMAN which will no doubt see his star rise even further.
The boohooMAN clothing brand prides itself on its cutting edge design and low prices. The company was spawned from the original brand boohoo and this new iteration hopes to prove itself as the premiere clothing brand for men.
In a blurb from their website, the boohooMAN brand gives a taste of what their company is all about.
Combining cutting edge design with an affordable price tag, we push boundaries to bring you the latest styles for less of a strain on your wallet.
Our philosophy is pretty simple; we don’t take fashion, or life, too seriously. Whether you want up to the minute trend and lifestyle news, or the best styles before your mates, we’ve got you covered. We know you want the best and the latest trends, so we work to give you just that. 24/7.
Big Neechi has the kind of presence and personality that is sure to bring further awareness to the boohooMAN brand. Neechi’s signing once again showcases how bodybuilders and bodybuilding personality are seeing immense cross over success. After all, everyone wants to look like a bodybuilder and Big Neechi has the kind of presence that is sure to resonate with other lifters looking for a new and stylish brand of clothing.
This could just be the beginning for the Generation Iron athlete as we see his star continue to rise.
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Managing Editor at Generation Iron, Jonathan Salmon is a writer, martial arts instructor, and geek culture enthusiast. Check out his YouTube, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and Sound Cloud for in-depth MMA analysis.