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Enhanced Ramy’s Rage Pump Reloaded Pre-Workout Review

There has been chatter about what Big Ramy has – or hasn’t – been up to since him and Dennis James signed with Enhanced Labs. Now, some of those questions are being answered.

Table of Contents

Product Overview
Pre-workout is one of those supplements athletes know and love to offer that pre-workout boost to enhance pumps, get the blood flowing, and work to boost those gains. Whether it’s a stimulant filled product, or one that is stim-free, either option will work to increase strength and size and give you a pre-workout boost to tackle any workout. Those long days of ours can be grueling, but what you’ll find is a great pre-workout like Enhanced Ramy’s Rage to give you everything you need.

Mr. Olympia 2020 Champion has begun to reveal what he has been working on with Enhanced: a new Big Ramy – Enhanced supplement line that starts with Big Ramy’s first product: A really professional pre-workout! The first release is a stim-free, vascular-inducing, and creatine pumping pre-workout.

Shop at Enhanced Labs
Ramy’s Rage Pump is getting a lot of attention. In this review we are going to evaluate whether this pre-workout is worth the hype.
Enhanced Labs are a team of bodybuilders, chemists, and innovators who joined together to disrupt a chaotic industry by doing absolutely whatever it takes to come out with the most effective hardcore supplements line on the market. By always staying on the cutting-edge advancements in technology and chemistry, Enhanced Labs gives their customers the continuous edge they desire most.
Ever since Enhanced signed Big Ramy, the supplement and bodybuilding world has been waiting: what is Enhanced doing with a Mr. Olympia? Now the vision is becoming clearer.

Word has it that Enhanced is set to release no less than 3 other Ramy products within the quarter and its the first Dennis James product within that same time frame. Enhanced is quickly growing to take a share no one in the industry thought possible just one short year ago.

Enhanced Ramy’s Rage Highlights
Ramy’s Rage is powerful. We reviewed its formulation and it was clear: each serving packs 12 clinically dosed ingredients scientifically proven to increase blood flow to muscles, enhance focus, and improve endurance. Every ingredient in Ramy’s Rage Pump is backed by peer-reviewed scientific research and is included at clinically effective levels. In other words, while every brand claim to have the best pre-workout supplement on the market, Enhanced Labs can actually back it up with real science and real numbers. Ramy’s Rage Pump also contains no artificial food dyes, fillers, or other unnecessary junk.

Ingredients
Ramy’s Rage Pump features 12 clinically dosed ingredients grouped into 4 synergistic matrixes.
Vascularity & Strength Matrix
L-Citrulline Malate 3:1
Citrulline malate increases vasodilation (the widening of the blood vessels). This increases the amount of nutrients and oxygen to working muscles, promoting better performance, more cellular energy production, and better post-workout recovery.
Glycerol (GlycerPump)
Glycerol has the rather unique ability to draw water into muscle cells which increases cell volumization and hydration. Glycerol supplementation has been clinically shown to increase blood volume, improved hydration, promote greater muscle fullness, regulate body temperature, and increase exercise performance [1].
Green Tea Extract (VASO-6)
VASO6 is a patented gallate-enhanced oligomer derived from green tea. What separates VASO6 from your typical nitric oxide boosting ingredients is that VASO6 improves the bioavailability of NO by inhibiting the expression and secretion of endothelin-1 (ET-1).  ET-1 is the peptide hormone responsible for vasoconstriction of blood vessels. By inhibiting ET-1, VASO6 goes well beyond your typical NO boosting ingredient because it makes the entire cardiovascular system work more efficiently.

ATP Energy Matrix
Creatine Anhydrous
While creatine monohydrate is creatine that’s been bound with water, creatine anhydrous has the water removed, providing more creatine per gram and preventing water retention. Clinical research reports that creatine supplementation leads to increased power output, muscular endurance, and muscle size [2].
Alpha-ketoisocaproate Calcium (PureKIC)
PureKIC (Alpha-ketoisocaproate Calcium) is a keto acid of the amino acid L-leucine. PureKIC is anti-catabolic and helps keep the body the body in an anabolic (muscle building) state. PureKIC is clinically proven to increase muscle protein synthesis, improve nitrogen balance, and decrease body fat.
PDE5 Inhibitor Matrix
Xanthoparmelia Scarboa 10:1
Xanthoparmelia Scabrosa contains substances that work the same way as pharmaceutical PDE5 inhibitors such as Viagra and Cialis by inhibiting the production of the enzyme Phosphodiesterase-V (PDE-5). PDE-5 is the enzyme that binds to and destroys cyclic Guanosine MonoPhosphate (cGMP). As a result, Xanthoparmelia Scabrosa prevents vasoconstriction, allowing for maximum arterial dilation and increased blood flow to muscles.
Epimedium Extract (10% Icarrins)
Icariin is the main active compound of the Epimedium plant. Icariin inhibits phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5), an enzyme that breaks down cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). PDE5 inhibition increases nitric oxide levels in the blood which lead to smooth muscle relaxation, widening of blood vessels and increased blood flow to working muscle cells.
Nootropic Focus Matrix
N-Acetyl-tyrosine
Tyrosine is an amino acid that is metabolized to produce neurotransmitters such as dopamine and adrenaline. Increasing levels of these neurotransmitters cause improvements in cognitive function, physical performance, metabolic rate and fat loss. N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine is the acetylated form of Tyrosine, meaning that the amino acid is bonded to an acetyl group. The addition of the acetyl group increases solubility and absorbability.
Alpha-Glycerophosphoryl Choline (Alpha GPC)
Alpha-Glycerophosphoryl Choline (Alpha GPC) is a choline-containing phospholipid that enhances cognitive function, increases strength and stimulates the release of growth hormone. Studies backing all the way back to the 1990’s have shown that supplementation of Alpha GPC improves memory [3]. The cumulative evidence from animal and human studies support the role of Alpha GPC as a well-tolerated cognitive enhancing compound with additional therapeutic benefits.
Sceletium Tortuosum (Kannaease)
Scientific research suggests that the active compounds in Sceletium tortuosum help with anxiety and depression, improve mood, and kill pain. Early clinical research suggests that Sceletium tortuosum may improve executive function and cognitive flexibility. In one study, people enjoyed significant increases in these two areas after supplementing with 25 mg/day for 9 weeks [4].
Toothed Clubmoss (Standardized to 1% Huperzine A)
Huperzine A is extracted from the Chinese club moss plant (Huperzia serrata). Huperzine functions as a cholinesterase inhibitor. It prevents the breakdown of acetylcholine, a chemical essential to learning and memory. Huperzine A provies a natural boost in energy alert fullness, without the use of stimulants.

Price & Effectiveness
Enhanced Big Ramy’s Rage Pump is that pre-workout you need most to really boost your pre-workout routine to aid in those massive lifts. With 30 servings, you get a great product at a great price to assist with all your pre-workout needs.
Pros: Great pre-workout with no stimulants and 12 clinically dosed ingredients. Packed with creatine HCL and other awesome ingredients. Made by a reputable company in Enhanced Labs with a 30 day money back guarantee.
Cons: Only 1 flavor in Grape. It is a great flavor, but having some variety would be nice.
Price: $25.99
Enhanced Labs offers Free shipping ANYWHERE in the world. If you live in the United States, your order ships FREE no matter what you buy. If you live outside the US, your order ships for free when it’s over $169.
Best Time To Take & How Much To Take
Enhanced Labs formulates supplements for serious bodybuilders so even large individuals only need to take one serving. It is recommended to start with one scoop (7.25g) and work your way up to the maximum dosage of two scoops (14.5g).
Ramy’s Rage Pump contains no stimulants so it can be taken any time of day.
Wrap Up
Enhanced Ramy’s Rage Pump is a stimulant free pre-workout powerhouse that can be drank any time of day. Enhanced continues to shake up the supplement world and we can’t wait to see what’s next. Pre-workout can boost all aspects of your pre-workout routine and assist with serious benefits for those big lifts. What you are really getting is a great pre-workout supplement with effective ingredients from a great company who knows what athletes need. Check out Enhanced Ramy’s Rage Pump today and see what it can do for your workout gains.
If you have any questions about Ramy’s Rage Pump or any of the other Enhanced Labs products, reach out to the Enhanced Labs Chief Science Officer Trevor Kouritzin by emailing [email protected]
Try Enhanced Ramy’s Rage Pump Today
Generation Iron may receive commissions on purchases made through our links. See our disclosure page for more information.
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 Enhanced Labs & Big Ramy Instagram
References
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3590833/
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5679696/
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5629791/
[4] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23441963/

Best Super Greens Supplements For Optimal Health 2021

These super greens supplements can really boost your total body health and wellness.

Table of Contents

Our lives are a mix of fun and stress, work and personal time, and grueling workouts and effective recovery. While supplements like a high quality multivitamin can pump us full of essential nutrients to keep us healthy and receiving those we often miss out on, there are others that can fill certain gaps a multivitamin cannot. A solid super greens supplement has the power to support our overall health and wellness by providing us with the right nutrients to see big gains and continually fuel our bodies. With amazing benefits, it is no wonder why these supplements have taken off.

But finding the right super greens supplement can be stressful, especially with a market filled with different brands, ingredients, and supposed claims of ways to help you. All that says to us is more nutrition labels to sift through, only wasting your time. Our list is here to at least get you started as you look for the best super greens for your lifestyle.
We’ve put together a list of the Best Super Greens Supplements so you have access to the best when it comes to boosting your overall health and wellness. We know it can be hard to decide, but this list consists of great options to get you started.

Best Greens Powder Overall: Transparent Labs WellnessSeries Prebiotic Greens

Transparent Labs offers a solid super greens supplement with their WellnessSeries Prebiotic Greens, a mineral rich and nutritious prebiotic supplement to maximize nutrient utilization. With two parts to this formula, their Algae Greens delivers much needed vitamins and minerals to aid in detoxification and their Prebiotic Fibers will provide healthy gut fibers to maximize this nutrient utilization. With clean ingredients and a transparent formula, Transparent Labs takes pride in knowing their product is geared towards the needs of the consumer with no ulterior motive.
Pros: Clean and transparent labels match the claims of this product. Effective and safe for all to use. Two part formula ensures optimal effectiveness for nutrient utilization in detoxification and digestion.
Cons: A premium priced item, this is only available through their website.
Price: $39.00
Click here for the best price
Check out our individual review for Transparent Labs WellnessSeries Prebiotic Greens here!

Best Greens For Gut Health: Plantrise Supergreens

Plantrise Supergreens is an all-in-one daily supplement backed with 72 vitamins and minerals derived from whole food sources and easily absorbable. With 12 servings of raw fruits and vegetables in a single scoop, you get a healthy daily dose of nutrition defense. Working to increase energy and focus, as well as support digestion and gut health, you give your body and brain what they need while working with optimal absorption to boost your digestive process. Plantrise also supports immune health, hormonal and neural support, and can improve your skin. It is free of gluten, dairy, egg, soy, nuts, and corn to make this an inclusive product for everyone.
Pros: Phenomenal formula with 72 nutrient rich superfoods. Great benefits designed to improve everyday life. A comprehensive, all-in-one daily supplement.
Cons: Very expensive product only available from them directly.
Price: $95.00
Click here for the best price

Best Greens For Energy: Legion Genesis Greens Superfood

Legion Genesis Greens Superfood is a 100% natural greens supplement designed to aid in variety of bodily function including increasing energy levels, mood, and libido, as well as boosting heart and circulatory health. With 5 main ingredients, each is extensively researched and clinically dosed for optimal effectiveness. As a well-thought out product, Legion has created this supplement to improve all areas of active peoples’ lives to ensure a healthy lifestyle overall.
Pros: The ingredients are researched and effective. Great benefits towards those with an active lifestyle. An all-natural product is a big draw for some.
Cons: Could have more ingredients included given the price.
Price: $40.49
Click here for the best price

Best Greens Formula: Onnit Earth Grown Nutrients

ONNIT brings a great supplement to the table with Earth Grown Nutrients to offer a nutrient dense combination of some of the most renowned natural ingredients on Earth. This is a perfect daily supplement to get all those essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, probiotics, enzymes, and antioxidants to really boost your health and fitness, leading to enhanced performance. With five amazing blends packed with tons of ingredients, you don’t miss out on any of these vital nutrients that will help power your day.
Pros: High in effective minerals for dietary reasons. Great for digestive health with prebiotics and fiber. The price is good and ONNIT is a reputable company who cares about their products.
Cons: Some ingredients are not quantified. The taste is okay but some complaints about the grittiness are worth noting.
Price: $29.71
Click here for the best price
Check out our individual review for ONNIT Earth Grown Nutrients here!

Best Greens For Absorption: Staunch Koala Food Super Greens

Staunch has you covered with Koala Food Super Greens when it comes to your digestive and immune health. A combination of 16 organic fruits and vegetables along with digestive enzymes are in this product to aid in proper digestion and absorption and pump you full of those vital nutrients. Koala Foods Super Greens has a Super Greens Complex made up of an Organic Greens Blend and an Organic Fruits Blend, and the Digestive Enzymes Complex will help maximize all of the intended effects. With powerful antioxidants and enzymes to promote digestive health, increase your energy, and boost your overall health, this supplement tastes great and gives you everything you need to thrive in the gym.
Pros: Great formula with clean ingredients to assist in digestive and immune health. Great for absorption so no nutrients go to waste. From a company who understands bodybuilding and fitness well.
Cons: High in price and may be missing a few helpful ingredients that others may have.
Price: $44.00
Click here for the best price
Check out our individual review for Staunch Koala Food Super Greens here!

Best Greens Blend Combination: Gaspari Nutrition Proven Greens & Reds

Gaspari Nutrition Proven Greens & Reds is a high nutrient superfood fruit and vegetable powder to help with a variety of bodily functions. From aiding in immune health and detoxification, promoting good digestion, and naturally balancing alkalinity, Gaspari Nutrition has you covered. This premium, nutrient-dense, all-natural superfood is high in vitamins and minerals with two great blends: Greens Blend and Antioxidant Reds Blend. With zero sugar and only 10 calories, this naturally flavored super greens supplement is sure to optimize your overall health.
Pros: A nice blend of both greens and reds covers all your bases. No added sugar doesn’t ruin a good product. Gaspari Nutrition is a reputable company who knows fitness.
Cons: High in price, but hovers around other premium products.
Price: $39.99
Click here for the best price

Best Greens For Keto: Perfect Keto Greens Powder With MCT

Perfect Keto Green Superfood Powder is made with 26+ whole foods made up of 100% raw organic micronutrients, MCT oil, digestive enzymes, and phytonutrients. Designed for those on a ketogenic diet, this will work great for those who don’t get enough vegetables in their routine. Since most nutrient dense fruits and vegetables can kick you out of ketosis, this product works to keep you in so you don’t lost your progress. Free from fillers, artificial ingredients, and hormones, this is a convenient and easy to take supplement to pack you with everything you need out of a keto friendly super greens product.
Pros: For those on keto, this will give you great nutrients without kicking you out of ketosis. No artificial ingredients ensure this product doesn’t get ruined.
Cons: Slightly more expensive than some and geared towards those on a ketogenic diet.
Price: $49.99
Click here for the best price

Best Greens For Immune Health: Nested Naturals Green Superfood Powder

Nested Naturals Green Superfood Powder is a 100% organic, non-GMO, and vegan superfood formula designed to benefit you in a number of ways. Packed with phytonutrients it can boost your energy levels and support focus. A blend of probiotics and good bacteria work to support digestive health and antioxidants and vitamins, like vitamin C, promote healthy detoxification and immune health. With tons of great ingredients and twenty whole foods, this product is third party tested to ensure accuracy and gives you everything you deserve out of a solid super greens supplement.
Pros: Offers a large amount of greens for you to feel the benefits in action. Mixes well with beverages or smoothies. Third party tested ensures trusted quality.
Cons: Some side effects were felt in terms of digestion and the taste is not the best.
Price: $27.95
Click here for the best price

Best Greens For Detox: Organifi Green Juice

Organifi Green Juice consists of a proprietary formula designed to nourish your body with vital nutrients and support weight management without the need to dramatically change your routine. Created with the best nutrients in mind, this product was designed to help enrich your body with those desired nutrients so nothing goes to waste. Between the Alkaline Greens Proprietary Blend and the Super Food Proprietary Blend, this formula is jam packed with effective ingredients to ensure you get the best for your body, detox or not.
Pros: Great ingredients to pack you with tons of nutrients. Benefits towards your lifestyle are great. Gluten, dairy, and soy free make this a good product for everyone.
Cons: Very expensive for what’s included and the overall value doesn’t really match up.
Price: $73.15
Click here for the best price

Benefits Of Super Greens Supplements
A good super greens supplement can provide you with a solid base to improve your overall health by ensuring you get all of those essential vitamins and minerals into your body. With great benefits like supporting immune health, boosting energy levels, and aiding in detoxification, you are well on your way to a more positive lifestyle. A good super greens supplement will:

Assist with weight loss: Suppress appetite and cravings while still giving your body the energy it needs to succeed (1).
Increase energy levels: Consisting of slow-release carbs and proteins, they can provide consistent energy supply throughout the day.
Improve gut health: Provide necessary enzymes to help your gut break down food for more maximum nutrient extraction.
Fill you with antioxidants: Help fight oxidative damage in the body from free radicals (2).
Act as a vegetable substitute: While you should always try and eat whole foods, super greens can act as a solid substitute for vegetables missed in your diet.

Key Ingredients
Ingredients for super green supplements vary based on brand and formula, but some of these ingredients are very common in most, if not all, super greens.
Leafy Greens: These include things like spinach, kale, and collard greens. They can help with digestive health, balance cholesterol levels, and work to maintain weight, boost energy, and aid in muscle strength (3).
Grasses: Including wheatgrass, barley grass, and alfalfa grass. These can eliminate toxins, help with digestion, and boost your metabolism.
Vegetables: Anything from broccoli, carrots, beets, and a host of others. Help with weight loss, cognitive function, and provide great nutrients (4).
Fruits: Typically high in antioxidants like blueberries, goji berries, and acai. Offer great antioxidant properties and pump you with vitamins and minerals.
Probiotics & Digestive Enzymes: Various forms of probiotics and enzymes like amylase, lipase, among others. These can aid in digestion to not upset your stomach and work to improve gut health (5).
Herbs: Some herbs include echinacea, milk thistle, and astragalus and they can assist with cognitive function, inflammation, and immune health.
How We Choose
When looking at these super green supplements, our team focuses on a few main components. We look at the reputation of the brands, for you deserve the most honest and transparent companies working for you. Along with that, the formula and ingredients are important because you deserve a well-rounded supplement that works for your benefit fully. You don’t need any added nonsense in your supplements and we look for the most natural and effective products out there. We also know supplements can get expensive and this is where we really focus on finding the best products at the right price. You deserve to be healthy without breaking the bank, so we’ve taken on that challenge so you don’t have to.

FAQ Section
What is the best super greens supplement?
Transparent Labs WellnessSeries Prebiotic Greens is a solid super greens supplement designed to maximize nutrient utilization. Their Algae Greens delivers much needed vitamins and minerals to aid in detoxification and their Prebiotic Fibers will provide healthy gut fibers to maximize this nutrient utilization. With clean ingredients and a transparent formula, this is the best super greens supplement.
Who should use a super greens supplement?
People looking to help with digestion should consider a super greens supplement. For those who don’t get enough greens in the day, this will help boost your intake so no nutrients are left out of your routine. For athletes who are constantly depleting their bodies, super greens are great for pumping those vital nutrients back into you as well.
Can you mask the taste?
If you don’t like the taste when mixed with just water, look to add various juices or some other liquid you enjoy. Also, you can add this powder to a smoothie to enjoy more of a meal while still getting all the benefits.
Do I need a multivitamin with a super greens supplement?
Multivitamins are great for everyone to take so you get all those vital nutrients you may miss throughout the day. But super green supplements offer other benefits that multis may not have including antioxidants, fibers, and other ingredients that work to boost your overall health. A good multi will pump you with vitamins and minerals and paired with a super greens supplement can add those extra benefits to you.
Wrap Up
Super greens supplements are perfect aids to assist in a healthy lifestyle by working to properly offer support for certain bodily functions. By ensuring you get all of those essential vitamins and minerals, the benefits of a super greens supplement are great. With the ability to support immune health, boost energy levels, aid in detoxification, assist in weight loss, and pump you with potentially missed vitamins and minerals, this supplement can work wonders for you and your body. Check out our list above and start to optimize your health and wellness today.
Generation Iron may receive commissions on purchases made through our links. See our disclosure page for more information.
Let us know what you think in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. 
References

National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements. “Dietary Supplements for Weight Loss”. (source)
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. “Antioxidants: In Depth”. (source)
Edith Cowan University (2021). “Green leafy vegetables essential for muscle strength”. (source)
Dias, Joao Silva (2012). “Nutritional Quality and Health Benefits of Vegetables: A Review”. (source)
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. “Probiotics: What You Need To Know”. (source)

Action Bronson Talks Physique Transformation, Losing 130lbs with Joe Rogan

Action Bronson talks with Joe Rogan about his journey to losing 130lbs.
Losing weight can be be simple. That is, if you have the right mindset. Having the proper mindset is the one thing that will get you achieve anything you want. That’s exactly what Action Bronson has grown to understand. The rapper breaks down his 130lb weight loss journey on a recent episode of the Joe Rogan Experience podcast.

Action Bronson delved into a bit of his history, explaining to Rogan how he’s battled with weight issues throughout his life.
“It was a long time coming,” said Action Bronson. “I’m happy that it happened now, because if it didn’t happen it would have been something else. I would’ve been in the grave or somewhere else. Who knows where they would’ve put me.
“I’ve been fat my whole life. I’ve been thinking about losing weight for a long time, for probably about 30 years… (I was about) 380-something. It was despicable. I didn’t look it though, I looked about 350. A fucking round ball, a meatball. I was a meatball.”
A Change in Mindset
The rapper went on to explain how a combination of his wife and the pandemic helped to shift his perspective and mindset that led him to his fitness journey.
“You have to shame me,” said Action Bronson. “I was shamed into this for sure… I started losing weight by myself, in my house, literally during the pandemic just eating different.
“My wife, she was shaming me. The issue was we have a brand new child. She was like ‘The f—k you doing? You want to be around here for our baby? Do you want to take yourself away from us?’ and that s—t hit, it hit hard.
“Not only that, but I love life,” he continued. “There’s no doubt about it. I’ve been going so fast for the past ten years that I haven’t really enjoyed myself.
“So this forced stoppage (from the pandemic) allowed me to really reassess my happiness, and I’ve regained everything. It’s not just fucking work, work, work, next thing, next thing, next thing.”
Action Bronson also did a training session with Joe Rogan. A clip of the training was posted to Instagram showcasing the two plus coach John Wolf exercising with kettlebells.
VERY SPECIAL TRAINING SESSION WITH MY BROTHAS joe rogan, coach john wolf 420 JOE ROGAN EXPERIENCE FOR THAT ASS SPECIAL DELIVERY. AHORA CON MAS SABOR.

You can see the rest of the clip here. You can also listen or watch the full episode by following this link.
What do you think about Action Bronson and his amazing body transformation?
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.

5 Reasons You Can’t Break Through Your Training Plateau

Reasons Why You Hit a Plateau in Bodybuilding
If you’re a weight room veteran, chances are you have encountered a plateau at least once. While it’s okay to hit a plateau, it can be disastrous for your gains if you aren’t able to break through the overhead ceiling.
Most people hit a progress plateau for the same reasons and understanding them can help you conquer them. Once you know the reasons, you’d be better off avoiding them as compared to spending time fixing them.
Following The Same Training Program

You need to constantly shock your muscles if you want them to grow. Sticking to the same training program for a long period of time can accustom your body to your workouts. Always be a step ahead of your muscle memory and do something new in every workout.
At the same time, don’t be the person who jumps ships way too often. Follow a program for 3-4 weeks before making changes. Doing so will make sure you’re getting the most out of all your workouts.

Nutrition Deficiency
The lack of a proper diet is a major reason why many people hit a plateau. Your body needs the right amount of macro and micronutrients in order to develop muscle mass and definition.
Prepare a nutrition plan as per your goals or take the help of a professional if you can’t do so by yourself. Training for building muscle or losing weight is useless until your workout and diet programs work in harmony.

Sticking To The Same Resistance
Some people make the mistake of getting too comfortable with the amount of weight they use. You should always be on the lookout to spice up your workouts. You might know people in your gym who have been using the same weights and show no sign of physique improvement.
If you can’t lift heavier weights, increase the intensity by performing a higher number of repetitions or sets. Changing your training intensity will never let you hit a plateau by keeping your muscles guessing.
Not Expanding Your Knowledge
Many people stick to a particular style of training. They stop learning new techniques and principles when they start a new program. This soon leads to them getting comfortable with their workouts and hitting a plateau.
You should always be looking to expand your training knowledge by reading extensively. With the advancement in research in training science, there are new concepts, principles, and methods being developed which can ignite new gains. Always remember, pro bodybuilders regularly change their training programs to keep their muscle growth active.

Dying Motivation
When people don’t see progress in their physique, they start losing motivation to train. They stop following their training, diet and recovery programs. The loss of motivation then makes them quit working out altogether.
It’s a vicious cycle, one you should avoid. Whenever you start to lose motivation, remind yourself why you started in the first place. Watching motivational videos or all-time classics like Generation Iron should help.

What do you do when you don’t feel motivated? Let us know in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook and Twitter.

Gym Crush – Lauren Simpson

Lauren Simpson – The Magician
Lauren Simpson is an Australian fitness athlete who has grown in popularity because of her incredible physique. Simpson’s transformation from an underweight, anxious office worker to a chiseled Greek goddess is one of the best we’ve ever seen.
Lauren has over 1.8 million followers on Instagram and her photos are a treat to watch. Simpson is a transformation expert, and has, over the years, made a name for herself in the space.

Simpson participated in netball, touch football, athletics, and swimming in high school but she only discovered her passion for fitness after she turned 25. According to Lauren, “It is important to not expect rapid changes overnight. Good things take time. If you put in the work, you will see results.”

One of the secrets of her success is that she believes in breaking down her goals into smaller milestones. The adrenaline rush and happiness she gets from the quick and easy wins keep her going.

Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, Lauren was always very active as a child and enjoyed competitive sports. It’s no surprise that she ended up making fitness her career and competed in shows.

Beginning on the Wrong Foot

After completing college at 20, she got her first job as an HR Coordinator in a financial advisory firm. Over the next four years, she started working out in the gym for a change of pace after being bored with her job.

Although she fell in love with working out, she didn’t know how to make the most of her training. Since she had no knowledge of training or nutrition, she was only doing cardio and eating around 1000 calories a day.
Hitting a Roadblock

Since Simpson didn’t have the right knowledge, she couldn’t reach her goal of sculpting her dream physique. Even with all the motivation and drive in the world, she was let down by her poor diet and lack of knowledge.

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As we enter a new year it’s all about ‘new year, new me’. Studies have shown less than 25% actually stay committed to their resolutions after just 30 days, only 8% of people actually accomplish them. So here are a couple of things to help set you up for a good year: ?? – ⚡️Your goal for 2020 will not do the work for you. Unless you take action, your goals are simply dreams. – ⚡️Ditch the ‘all or nothing’ approach. It’s better to be 80% compliant every day while enjoying your food, training & life…than killing yourself for the 100% but then falling off track to 0% every couple days. – ⚡️You don’t have to suffer to get results. The more restrictive or deprived you are doesn’t mean you will be guaranteed better progress – often this leads to binges, falling way off track and an unhealthy relationship with food. – ⚡️Dont resort to extremes!!!! You don’t need to go on a DETOX, take skinny teas, do zero carbs, try starve yourself, do endless amounts of exercise, wear waist trainers. You want long term sustainable results. This is never the answer to achieving your goals. – ⚡️You will get hungry if you are dieting. It’s normal. This is just the downside of being in a calorie deficit and being further from your metabolic set point. Recognise the feeling & manage it. – ⚡️Understand that you will have bad days! No one is perfect!!! Yes you are likely to miss a workout, yes you may eat over your calories, yes you might go out for a friends birthday and have a few too many wines…it’s life. If you have a bad day, don’t let it turn into a bad week & then a bad month! Accept it and move on. – An all or nothing approach leaves you thinking that anything less than ‘perfect’ is failing. Good enough really is good enough. Something is better than nothing. – Any small effort is worthy of being recognised and proud of. The real key to success lies in consistency.♥️ – – Link in my bio for my next 8 week challenge. Lose fat & build muscle. Learn how to get sustainable results. @laurensimpson ?????
A post shared by Lauren Simpson (@laurensimpson) on Jan 1, 2020 at 12:57pm PST

She wasn’t eating enough to fuel her body and started suffering from anxiety after becoming underweight. Lauren took fitness to an unhealthy extreme – both mentally and physically.

Her life started getting back on track at the end of 2014 when she took her first steps towards recovery and began researching different training programs to help her overcome her issues.
The Transformer

Lauren regularly posts workouts on her Instagram page for her fans to follow. Once you watch her workouts, you’ll know the secret behind her behind. Her training is intense, annihilating but a sight to be seen.

Lauren Simpson has some of the prettiest photos for a fitness influencer. Her hourglass physique and divine landscapes make a solid combination. You can’t get tired of scrolling through her feed.

Who is your gym crush? Let us know in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook and Twitter.

BUSINESS AND BIKINI EPISODE 2

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BUSINESS AND BIKINI Episode 2 We are back with Episode 2 of the new ongoing series Business And Bikini found #exclusively on npcnewsonline.com Starring #IFBBBikiniPro Skylar Lanier @skylarlanier_ifbbpro , #NPCBikini Nikki Politi @nikki.politi and #IFBBBikiniPro Etila Santiago @etila . Each episode the athletes answer questions sent in by #NPC and @npcworldwideofficial competitors with the emphasis on Novice competitors. . Directed and Filmed @npcphotogymofficial by J.M. Manion @aroundthenpc_jm Produced by Dr. Gary Udit @garyudit Editing by @tsg.events Clothing Provided by #npcactivewear . @npcnewsonlineofficialpage @ifbb_pro_league @npcworldwideofficial @npcnewstv @npcfitbody @npcwellness @npcworldwidewellness @ifbbproleaguewellness @npcphotogymofficial @t_manion @frank_sepe @jason___tsg @theshopgym #npcbodybuilding #npcfitness #npcmensphysique #npcclassicphysique #npcwomensphysique #npcfigure #npcbikini #npcwellness #ifbbprobodybuilding #ifbbpro212 #ifbbproclassicphysique #ifbbprofitness #ifbbpromensphysique #ifbbprofigure #ifbbprowomensphysique #ifbbprobikini #ifbbproleaguewellness #channel4newsteam #ronburgundy #veronicacorningstone #champkind #bricktamland #brianfantana

Giants Live Offers $50K to Anyone Who Can Deadlift 505kg for New World Record

Giants Live offer $50,000 to anyone who can beat the deadlift world record with a 505kg lift.
It looks like a major deadlift challenge has just been issued. Looking for a monster deadlifter to beat Hafthor Bjornsson’s world record of 501kg, Giants Live has issued out a challenge. The challenge in particular is to see who can lift 505kgs.

Since Hafthor Bjornsson deadlifted 501kg last year, many strongman and powerlifting competitors have staked their claim as being the next to break the record. While talk is all when and good, it’s going to take action to bring about a changing of the guard.
But rather than just bragging rights, Giants Live is adding some extra incentive. Giants Live is putting on a World Deadlift championship and they’re inviting any and every strength athlete to prove their worth. If they can deadlift 505kg then they’ll not only break the world record, but also take home the grand prize of $50,000.
Below is the official announcement of the event.
? WANTED – ANY MAN WHO CAN DEADLIFT 505KG ?
GIANTS LIVE are on the hunt for the next WORLD RECORD deadlifter. We’re offering $50,000 to ANYONE who can lift 505kg!
Think YOU can deadlift 505KG? Email [email protected] with a video of your lifts and why YOU should be invited to Giants Live WORLD OPEN + World Deadlift Championships

Do you think there’s a lifter out there that can deadlift 505kgs?
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.

Road To The NPC Pittsburgh 2021 – Jessica Mark Interview

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The ‘Burgh has been well represented this year as we have another #NPC #Pittsburgh figure competitor, Jessica Mark @basic_bodybuilder filming her #roadtothenpcpittsburgh @npcifbbpropittsburgh 2021 with J.M. Manion @aroundthenpc_jm @npcphotogymofficial #exclusively for @npcnewsonlineofficialpage @npcnewstv with 3 weeks until the contest! . In this Interview Jessica talks about her one and done foray into @npcwellness at the 2020 #npcnorthamerican and how she has made the switch back to #npcfigure again even though she also crossed over in a few contests to #womensphysique and has done well in both so far. She lays out her plans starting with the 2021 from the #npcpittsburgh championships. You can watch the full interview, her posing and her training on npcnewsonline.com and our You Tube Channel. . The 2021 #NPCPittsburgh Championships is back along with the #IFBBPittsburghPro @npcifbbpropittsburgh on April 30-May 1 and the contest will be held at it’s normal location, Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hall in Pittsburgh! @soldiersandsailorshall This contest is promoted by NPC and @ifbb_pro_league President Jim Manion. . @npcfitbody @npcworldwideofficial @npcwellness @npcworldwidewellness @ifbbproleaguewellness @t_manion @aroundthenpc_jm @garyudit @frank_sepe @npcpennsylvania @axeandsledge @limitless @olympiatanning @fitbodyfusion @bodybyo @blackstonelabs_official @teamatlasmtl @redcon1 @theprophysiques @teamfflex @mrolympiallc #nationalphysiquecommittee #ifbbprofessionalleague #npcbodybuilding #npcfitness #npcmensphysique #npcclassicphysique #npcwomensphysique #npcfigure #npcbikini #npcwellness #ifbbproclassicphysique #ifbbpromensphysique #ifbbprofigure #ifbbprobikini #ifbbproleaguewellness #npcactivewear #pittsburgh

Blessing Awodibu: “My Goal Is To Change Bodybuilding”

Blessing Awodibu plans to change the face of bodybuilding and 100% believes he will be Mr. Olympia in the future.
Blessing Awodibu is a bodybuilder who found success outside of a pro career. His humorous videos and viral internet presence brought him a massive following. That following combined with his mass monster physique made him a powerful force in the bodybuilding industry. Now he’s about to go pro – which could bring him even more attention and success. In our latest GI Exclusive interview, Blessing Awodibu explains his plan to not only become Mr. Olympia but to also change the face of bodybuilding.
If there’s one thing you can’t deny about Blessing Awodibu, is that he knows how to hype himself up. Not only that, but he knows how to hype up the competition that he’ll be competing in. Since he announced he would be competing in the New York Pro 2021, he has showcased a charisma and trash talk that has both excited the community and caused controversy. At the end of the day, good or bad, it’s brought a lot more talk about the New York Pro in the early months before it commences in May.

This tactic is no stranger to Blessing Awodibu, as it’s the very thing he’s been doing to build his viral internet presence since before his entrance into the pro circuit. His intense personality made him a bodybuilding influencer. He’s taking those tactics into his build up to bodybuilding competitions.
During our conversation, we asked Blessing Awodibu why he decided to go pro. He already had plenty of followers and could have gone down the path of a bodybuilding influencer. His brand is strong and his videos do well. He was already finding success without the pro card.
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Watch our latest GI Exclusive segment with Blessing Awodibu above!
Blessing agrees but he can’t help but need to go pro. He is passionate about bodybuilding more than anything else. So the opportunity to go pro and make a statement in the competitive world was a must.

His passion for bodybuilding doesn’t simply drive him to be a successful pro bodybuilder. It also makes him want to bring his talents to the industry in a way that can evolve the sport. He wants to not only be a champion bodybuilder. He wants to change the very face of what bodybuilding can be.
It seems that a big part of that is taking what made him successful on the internet and bring it into the competitions themselves. Perhaps most similar to something like WWE, the drama, rivalries, and trash talk help bring excitement before the actual battles on stage. To create emotional stakes for different personalities bring in more drama to who wins and who loses.
At the end of the day, the victor goes to the best physique. That will always remain true. But to fold in more human emotion and drama throughout the lead up to the competitions can take the excitement to the next level. It makes sense to some degree, some of the most memorable bodybuilding moments involve rivalries. Face-offs that include Ronnie Coleman vs Jay Cutler, Phil Heath vs Kai Greene, and Arnold Schwarzenegger vs Lou Ferrigno in Pumping Iron.
As the world becomes increasingly more digital with a focus on video that can be streamed across the world, the tactics that have worked for movies comes to mind. The more of a narrative that can go behind each big competition and the athletes competing in it, the more drama and excitement we see in the stakes.
Blessing Awodibu believes he can bring that to bodybuilding. He believes “100%” that he will become a Mr. Olympia champion. If he achieves this – he will use that spotlight to bring hype and drama to the competition. To bring a narrative that helps fans interact with the sport even more.
You can watch Blessing Awodibu talk about his plans to change bodybuilding in more detail by watching our GI Exclusive interview segment above.

How The Barbell High Pull Works As An Advanced Total Body Workout

A total body killer to see gains.
We often look for the best exercises to target all of our needs. While much of our routine consists of isolation exercises, it is important to include those total body workouts into our regimen to see growth and provide a convenient way to target multiple muscle groups at once. It can be challenging to find the right exercises, and with so many out there, the options seem endless. The barbell high pull is a great total body exercise to target muscle growth, power output, explosivity, and stability so we get the most out of our training.
For those of us bodybuilders and powerlifters, looking towards exercises that will improve our bigger lifts is one step closer to achieving that desired strength and physique we seek most. What the barbell high pull does is it sets us up to tackle those big Olympic lifts by working similar movements and muscles so when the time comes we are ready to take on anything that comes our way. As a simple to learn yet advanced exercise, it will challenge your whole body to work to move that big weight.

Let’s take a look at the barbell high pull and see what this exercise is all about. From what it is, to muscles worked, the benefits associated with it, and how to perform it, this total body exercise is a monster that needs to be in your workout routine.

What Is The Barbell High Pull?
The barbell high pull is an advanced total body workout designed to improve strength, power, stability, and sheer size. While it is a perfect exercise for working on building muscle in general, it can aid in those big lifts like the clean and deadlift given its movements and similar muscles worked. As a full body exercise, you really work to develop total body power that can aid in those Olympic lifts (1). Great for bodybuilders, powerlifters, or other strength sports alike, this is definitely one that needs to be in your routine.
Muscles Worked
What you get with the barbell high pull is a total body workout to really maximize your training and performance, and honestly, save you time in the gym. Forget working with just isolation exercises and really focus on targeting multiple muscle groups at once.

With this exercise, for upper body muscles you target the shoulders, traps, biceps, and abdominals. For that lower body work, your quads and glutes will feel a nice burn to aid in that grounded support. A total body workout aimed at strength and power, plenty of muscles get work done with this exercise.

Benefits Of This Exercise
Coming with this exercise are some great benefits that cannot be overlooked. When it comes down to it, this full body workout can save you some time in the gym and is convenient on any given day. Benefits of this monster, total body exercise include:

Increase strength: Working multiple muscles groups, this is a great exercise to see weight progression as you build that muscle. It will challenge you to see that desired growth by pushing your limits with a full body workout (2).
Improve power: The explosivity required makes you work on power output that will pay off with other big lifts. Having the ability to be powerful is just what we need with lifts like the deadlift, bench press, and squats.
Assists Olympic lifts: Similar movements and muscle groups makes this an effective workout for aiding in those big Olympic and powerlifts. Having a foundation to tackle these lifts is exactly what we need most out of our training (3).
Improve balance & stability: Work to stay grounded by building strength in your core and legs to have more grounded, more supported lifts. More stability will assist with everyday functions as well.

How To Perform It
Here are the steps for performing the barbell high pull. While it is an advanced exercise, it is simple to learn so start light if you have to nail down technique and you will soon find yourself lifting that massive weight in no time.

Set up your barbell with the desired weight and stand shoulder-width apart. Your shins should be placed close to the barbell. Pushing your hips back, go into a squat position and grip the bar overhand. As you drive through your feet, engage your core and explode up, shrugging your shoulders as high as possible. Return to the starting position and repeat for your desired number of reps.
Featured Barbell
We wanted to share a great barbell for those looking to beef up their home gym. Having the right equipment is half the battle and this barbell from American Barbell is exactly what you need to thrive to boost training and ultimately see the results you want most out of your performance.
American Barbell 20KG Training Bar

American Barbell 20KG Training Bar is a versatile bar tested and approved for training and competition. The precision ground alloy steel bar shaft is tested through a rigorous process to ensure longevity and excellent whip for optimal performance. A finished hard chrome adds extra durability and corrosion resistance for nice added features. The bar sleeves work to rotate smoothly and this bar is 20kg, 28mm in diameter, and 2,200mm in length. American Barbell Training Bar is built to last while providing comfort and longevity for all of your goals.
Price: $315.00
Check out American Barbell 20KG Training Bar Here

Check out our list of the Best Barbells for more great barbells to beef up your home gym!

Wrap Up
The barbell high pull is a great full body exercise to target upper and lower muscles to give you the best chance at growth. What this exercise will do is work to build strength and size while also offering support for those big Olympic and powerlifts so you see huge growth in all areas of your training and performance. As a great exercise, this will save you time while maximizing your training and is a great way to improve power and explosivity as well. Look to add this to your routine and see those gains you want most.
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 American Barbell and Envato
References

Hori, Naruhiro; Chiu, Loren Z. F.; Kawamori, Naoki (2009). “Pulling movement in weightlifting exercises from a biomechanical standpoint”. (source)
Westcott, Wayne L. (2012). “Resistance training is medicine: effects of strength training on health”. (source)
Ferland, Pierre-Marc; Comtois, Alain S. (2019). “Classic Powerlifting Performance: A Systematic Review”. (source)