Tag: Shaun Clarida
Shaun Clarida Hits A Quad-Popping Leg Workout
Shaun Clarida recently tackled an intense quad focused leg workout as a part of his competition prep. The Giant Killer started his prep earlier than most competitors as he looks to defend his 212 Olympia title later this year. This will certainly give him a head start over the competition and contribute positively towards his […]
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Shaun Clarida kicks off the 2023 Olympia Prep With an Intense Back and Biceps Workout
Shaun Clarida has entered the prep for 2023 Olympia. He shared the news in a recent pull day workout posted on his YouTube channel and also shed light on the challenges of being on top of the division.
Shaun Clarida is an American professional builder that has competed in the Men’s Open and the 212 divisions of the IFBB Pro League. Although he has done the best of his work in the 212 division, the 40-year-old bodybuilder has maintained a strong presence in the Men’s Open division as well.
Winning the 212 Olympia title at the 2020 Olympia was the highlight of Shaun Clarida’s career. However, he was dethroned by Derek Lunsford at the 2021 Olympia, bringing the goal of a long title reign to an abrupt end. But Clarida turned up the heat and made the bold decision to move up to the Men’s Open division.
At 5ft-2in tall, Clarida is one of the shorter competitors. His decision to compete against the big boys was criticized as a result. But Clarida took the bodybuilding world by surprise when he emerged victoriously in his Men’s Open debut at the 2021 Legion Sports Fest Pro. The win earned him a direct qualification to compete in the division at the 2022 Olympia as well.
While he intended to create history by competing in both Men’s Open and 212 division at the show, Clarida eventually stayed in the 212 division, winning the second 212 Olympia title in 2022. He made a quick turnaround and attempted to score a win at the 2023 Arnold Classic in the Open division but managed to secure a fifth-place finish.
Shaun Clarida talks about the pressure of being an Olympia champion
Clarida will attempt the first defense of his 212 Olympia title in 2023 and started the competition prep 16 weeks out of the show. He made rapid progress in the off-season and feels comfortable at the current stage. Winning the third title is obviously the primary objective of the competition prep. While winning a title is probably the easier bit, defending it is the part where most people fail. Clarida has been in that situation before and highlighted the challenges of being on top of the division. He said:
“Much harder to stay on top, much harder! You’ve got a big a** target on your back. Everybody is coming to take you out. On the flip side everybody wants to see what kind of improvements you’re gonna make, how much better you can be. But if you follow my career for the past umpteen years, that’s what I’m known for… Improving year after year, bringing something new to the stage.”
The prospects of a competitive legacy are not the biggest motivating factor in his life. Clarida was blessed with a baby girl in 2022. He feels that being a father gives him the energy he needs to push through difficulties.
“Having that title is definitely motivating. But for me, what’s more motivating than that, aside from being Mr. Olympia, is being a dad, a father. Having this little human being in my hand to provide for, be an educator, be a leader…” He added.
The 40-year-old further stated that all the efforts are for his daughter and that’s one of the reasons he moved back to Texas. But he admits that being Mr. Olympia is a great feeling nevertheless. With that, Clarida jumped into the pull day workout and got a good day’s work in to get ready for the 2023 Olympia.
Shaun Clarida pushes through a high-volume back and biceps workout
Back Workout
Pull-Ups
Clarida kicked off the workout with assisted pull-ups. The regular bodyweight pull-up is one of the most effective compound exercises to build the upper body pulling muscles. Therefore it can be surprising to see an elite bodybuilder perform the assisted version, taking some resistance off. But Shaun Clarida has always preferred assisted pull-ups as they take the momentum out of play and help focus directly on the back muscles.
“I’m a big believer in pull-ups. I believe they are absolutely the bread and butter of growing that back.. For that back thickness and width…” Clarida exclaimed.
Clarida performed four to five sets of assisted pull-ups applying the progressive overload principle and setting the wheels in motion for an intense training session. He then jumped into the first official back exercise of the day.
Meadow’s Rows
‘The Giant Killer’ incorporated this exercise in his training routine around a year back when he started the training program to emphasize and improve the upper and outer areas of the latissimus dorsi muscles. But Clarida was introduced to the exercise back in the day by the late John Meadows himself ‘to really thicken up the lats’.
Clarida followed the training method taught to him by John Meadows to do this exercise. After doing a couple of warm-up sets without loading any weight on the bar, ‘The Giant Killer’ did two feeder sets to figure out a good weight that he could improve from. He uses 25lbs plates to do Meadows row as it enables him to get a better range of motion. There is a practical reason behind this as Shaun Clarida explained:
“I’m short. So if I’m short and I use the 45lbs plate, it’ll just be banging the whole time and I won’t be able to get the full (range of motion) which I want…”
The feeder sets were followed by working sets with incrementally heavier weights. Following this, the 212 Olympia champion took to the T-bar rows next.
Chest-Supported T-Bar Rows
T-bar rows are arguably the greatest exercise to impart thickness to the back. If you had to choose just one rowing movement for back, we would advise to go with T-bar rows. Clarida did the exercise on a chest-supported t-bar rows machine. Clarida prefers to have a grip that is in between the neutral grip and the overhand pronated grip. However, the machine did not have the option and Clarida improvised by attaching a D-handle.
Clarida did the warm-up set using a quarter plate and then proceeded to crank out the feeder sets. After working his way up to the top set of two full sets, ‘The Giant Killer’ took to another rowing movement.
Machine Rows
Shan Clarida next performed machine rows on the Prime Extreme Row machine. The machine has eight different adjustments for the bench. Clarida intended the exercise to simulate the bent-over dumbbell rows. He adjusted the seat accordingly and performed the rows unilaterally.
“By hovering over the bench and keeping one hand against the pad, I’m able to get a really good stretch in the lat,” Clarida said about the positioning.
He pushed through some solid sets of the exercise using a similar training method as the previous exercises – warm-up sets, feeder sets followed by working sets – and jumped into the next exercise.
Seated Rows
Most of the previous exercises primarily targeted the lats. Clarida shifted his focus on working the upper back and performed seated rows on a Prime selectorized machine next.
“(The machine) hits the upper back just right with the positioning of the chair. You’ll feel traps, rhomboids, a little bit of the rear delts but not too much,” Clarida explained.
The American bodybuilder annihilated some heavy sets of seated rows to work the upper back muscles before taking up a vertical pulling movement.
Close-Grip V-Bar Pulldowns
Vertical pulling movements help build a wide back. Clarida took to the v-bar lat pulldown next to build upper and middle back width. This variation of lat pulldowns heavily stimulates the rhomboids due to the close neutral grip. Also, biceps and forearms get a good workout as well. Clarida cranked out some solid sets of close grip v-bar pulldowns before taking up an isolation exercise next.
Standing Cable Pullovers
We can’t think of many isolation exercises when it comes to stimulating the back muscles. However, cable pullover is one isolation exercise that stands out for its benefits in back-building. It primarily works the latissimus dorsi, trapezius, and posterior deltoid muscles.
“A lot of rowing, a lot of blood flow in those lats. Now we’re going to stretch them out the front lat spread, double bicep to make sure that width is there,” Clarida stated.
The 40-year-old pushed through four working sets of this exercise and jumped into the finisher of the day.
Weighted hyperextensions
Clarida capped the back workout with a variation of weighted hyperextensions that he learned from the late John Meadows. This lower back movement targets the lower back muscles, more specifically, the spinal erectors.
“We’re still 16 weeks out and I’m trying to maintain as much mass as I possibly can. I’m still taking a lot of food in so I’m able to push a good amount of weight. But at the same time, I’ve got to push that conditioning,” Clarida said.
However, he has two herniations in the lower back and needs to be extra careful with the weight.
“When you turn around and ride those elbows back, spread double biceps for that lat spread, you see that whole lower back… We call it the Christmas tree, right? We want to see all those lines, all the details. This movement is going to help with that,” Shaun Clarida explained.
He performed a few sets of hyperextensions using a barbell with 25lbs plates for weight and wrapped up back training.
Biceps Workout
Single-Arm Preacher Curls
Shaun Clarida shifted the focus to the next part of his pull day – the biceps. Preacher curls are by far the most effective isolation exercise for biceps and help massively with muscle hypertrophy by eliminating all the other muscles from the action. Clarida performed a few sets of the exercise unilaterally on a selectorized machine and jumped into the last exercise of the training session.
Dumbbell Hammer Curls
Hammer curls target the brachioradialis and the brachialis muscles in the arms along with biceps brachii. Most of the arm muscles get sufficient work during most of the pulling movements. Therefore it is completely unnecessary to train them with excessively heavy weights. All they need is stimulation with a few sets done with proper form. Shaun Clarida did exactly that with dumbbell hammer curls next and wrapped up the training session.
Overall, the workout included:
2023 Olympia takes place from No.2-5 in Orlando, Florida. Shaun Clarida will be the obvious favorite heading into the show. However, he has to manage the resources well and bring a complete package to the stage. If he maintains the focus and unparalleled work ethic that he is known for, ‘The Giant Killer’ will certainly walk away with the third 212 Olympia title.
You can watch the full workout video here, courtesy of Shaun Clarida’s personal YouTube channel:
Published: 26 July, 2023 | 9:26 AM EDT
Shaun Clarida ‘Coming in Bigger’ for 2023 Olympia, Starts Prep Early + Talks Lifting Heavy Weight
Shaun Clarida is gearing up for his 2023 Olympia prep as the show approaches in less than four months. In a recent Muscular Development interview, Clarida updated fans on his progress and said he’s prioritizing hamstring and chest growth in the coming weeks.
Reigning two-time 212 Olympia Shaun Clarida is a monster of the division. He built his name in the league with hard work, grit, and throwing around ridiculously heavy weight. While he may not possess a towering structure, he makes up for it with cartoonish muscle density and dry conditioning. Given his strength and tenacity inside the gym, some in the sport have labeled Shaun a ‘Mini Ronnie Coleman.’
Following years of chasing his dream of becoming an Olympia champion, Clarida achieved his goal in 2020 when he dethroned Kamal Elgargni. Heavy is the head that wears the crown, as was the case with Shaun, who eventually lost his title a year later to IFBB Pro League star, Derek Lunsford. Ultimately, Lunsford moved to the Open division while Clarida mapped out a plan to retrieve his title.
Last December, Clarida reinstated himself as the 212 Olympia to become a two-time champion. Instead of resting his physique, Clarida jumped into the recent 2023 Arnold Classic in the Open. At the event, he proved why he’s nicknamed ‘The Giant Killer.’ Clarida would end the show in fifth place but pushed several mass monsters including the former two-time Mr. Olympia Mamdouh ‘Big Ramy’ Elssbiay.
Shaun Clarida Growing Chest, Hamstrings for 2023 Olympia, Plans to Bring as Much Muscle ‘As Possible’
Clarida said he started his prep early, which allows him to ‘pull back’ later if need be.
“Yeah, 18 weeks as of tomorrow, Friday. I always like to start prep early, for me personally. I like to clean things up start a little cardio that way toward the end I can pull back and let my body rest a little bit and feed before the show,” said Shaun Clarida. “Yeah, no I would never do that [prep for 8-10 weeks].”
Unlike in the past, Clarida reached his heaviest weight in the off-season this year at 215 pounds.
“Yeah, it’s – I mean I got up to like 215. It’s pretty crazy. I didn’t really believe I could because obviously dealing with the big move, the baby, and everything, I felt like my body would probably retract a little bit or I wouldn’t be able to train as much as I have. Luckily, I’ve been down here and able to train every single day. Been getting my cardio in and my food in so everything has been good.”
“I definitely feel like this year’s Olympia I’m coming in a little bit bigger but the most important thing for me is the conditioning. I don’t necessarily look to put on weight but I’m always a big fan of trying to improve certain areas like my chest and my hamstrings. And while I do that, I get stronger after those movements and your body just grows, naturally just grows.
It’s been a great off-season thus far. I feel like I’m going to grow into the show. For me personally, I’ve always been someone who gets stronger into prep. Sometimes I have to be mindful when I’m in prep just to make sure I’m safe and don’t get injured. But I’m going to keep pushing hard and keeping pushing strong and hold as much muscle size going into this show as possible.”
Clarida Talks Gym Pins for Plate-Loaded Training and Lifting Heavy
Clarida shared that he uses a gym pin to add additional weights to machines that don’t meet his requirements.
“It’s mainly, I mean he makes different versions, obviously, pin loaded. So if it’s a machine with a stack of like 200, like right now, my abductor machine the most you can put on it is 200, so I have to put the gym pin on there to add another 25 plate on there.
Mostly I use that for that hammer incline press that can’t handle a certain amount of weights or the leg press is a big one for me. Like a lot of leg presses have really small hooks to them. So, I bring that in and kind of extend that and add more weight to it. You know, mostly plate-loaded stuff, yeah.”
According to Clarida, his body craves heavy weight despite his age and the subsequent risk factor.
“Yeah [I’m still getting stronger] honestly I have. Despite my age, I just think maybe because this is how I’ve been doing it since the beginning. My body just craves the heavy weight. People give me shit for it,” added Clarida.
Clarida explained that his prep has been stress-free because he created a home gym in his garage, where he trains cardio, abs, glutes, and abductors.
“This prep has been really just stress-free. I actually put a gym in the garage. We have a four-car garage so I took two of the bays and called my man Steve at Super Gym and ordered eight pieces of equipment. Typically I do my morning cardio at the gym and have to drive there and do the whole session. Anything I do in the morning as far as my cardio, my abs, my glutes, my abductors, I do them now at the house.”
Even though he prefers lifting heavy, Shaun favors Smith machine movements because they provide his body with more stability.
“It’s scary sometimes [the heavy weight]. It is pretty scary. But I always say it’s either me or the machine and it’s not going to win today. I don’t get under some weight and think about how it’s going to hurt me if I do this or that. You just have to get under it and think you’re going to get your reps 8-10 or whatever you want and walk away and be done with it.”
“More so [I use Smith machine movements] for me because I’m now training by myself. If I still had a training partner I would still do an incline barbell but definitely not a flat bench. But because I train by myself, it’s a lot safer. Two, I’ve always liked the Smith machine because I don’t have to utilize my stabilizers. I can just find the right path and go up and down.”
In March, Clarida boldly claimed that he wanted to surpass former 212 Olympia Flex Lewis’ record of seven titles – the most in history. In an appearance on Hany Rambod’s The Truth Podcast, Clarida made it clear that was his primary goal as well as continuing to test his resolve in the Men’s Open.
Clarida and Rambod also joined hands for a YouTube video where they hammered through a brutal FST-7 chest workout. The goal was to maximize muscle growth and Clarida’s chest showed as much by the time they wrapped up the training session.
Fans have already deemed Shaun Clarida a massive favorite heading into November. Should he once again claim the 212 Olympia title, Clarida will be one step closer to breaking Lewis’ all-time win record on the sport’s biggest stage.
RELATED: Bodybuilder Shaun Clarida Crushes A Demanding Chest And Delts Workout
Watch the full video from the Muscular Development YouTube channel below:
Published: 18 July, 2023 | 11:34 AM EDT
Shaun Clarida Shows Off Insane 206-Lb Physique Update 20 Weeks From 2023 Mr. Olympia
Shaun Clarida has officially begun preparations for his upcoming title defense in November. The reigning two-time 212 Olympia champ took to Instagram and showcased an impressive physique update where he tipped the scales at 206 pounds.
While he doesn’t enjoy the height of some of his peers, Clarida makes up for it with density, conditioning, and pure grit. He’s been referred to as a ‘Mini Ronnie Coleman,’ who is known for throwing around heavy weight for high reps.
With cartoonish proportions and three-dimensional muscle mass, Shaun Clarida quickly emerged as a preeminent threat in the 212 Bodybuilding class. After several years of failing to win the coveted Olympia title, Clarida reached the pinnacle of his career in 2020 when he ousted Kamal Elgargni for gold in a memorable showdown.
In 2021, he brought an improved physique but struggled against Derek Lunsford, a competitor held in high regard for his shape, aesthetics, and pronounced v-taper. In the end, Shaun took runner-up to Lunsford. Testing a new division, Clarida entered and won the 2021 Legion Sports Fest Pro, earning him the nickname ‘The Giant Killer.’
And while Derek Lunsford opted to compete in the Open at 2022 Mr. Olympia due to a special invite, Shaun stuck it out in the 212 class, aiming to win his title back. Clarida dominantly won his second 212 Olympia title last December. Instead of taking time to map out his next move, Clarida entered and finished fifth at the 2023 Arnold Classic.
Having led a busy schedule, Clarida is motivated to become a three-time champion later this year. He believes the birth of his daughter and a recent move to Texas will serve as huge boosts to his motivation on the horizon.
Shaun Clarida Shares ‘Starting Point’ for 2023 Mr. Olympia Prep, Shows Off 206-Lb Physique 20 Weeks Out
Clarida clarified that this photo was taken last week and served as his starting point for the 2023 Mr. Olympia prep.
At 206 pounds, Shaun appears full but is still holding on to a substantial amount of definition. Despite the off-season, his legs are impressively separated as well.
“?UPDATE?
This is my starting point 20 weeks out (taken last week) from the 2023 ⭕️lympia sitting at 206lbs.
Despite being one of the busiest years of my life/career between doing both the Olympia and the Arnold last season, the birth of my daughter and moving my family from New Jersey ➡️ Texas, it’s been one of the most productive. The new environment, having the fuel & motivation with Baby GK and always having a supporting cast of friends, family and sponsors have all kept me grounded and focused on the task and goal come November 3rd. ???
OFF TO THE RACES WE GO!” Shaun Clarida wrote.
Clarida has ambitious plans before he puts an end to his bodybuilding career. In March, he revealed he would like to break Flex Lewis‘ all-time 212 Olympia record of seven victories. During his appearance on Hany Rambod’s The Truth Podcast, Shaun elaborated on his future. He said his goal was to win multiple titles as a 212 athlete but still planned to occasionally test his mettle in the Open class.
In addition to their YouTube collaboration, Clarida and Rambod teamed up for an FST-7 chest workout. With hypertrophy as the primary objective, the training session was a success and highlighted how freaky Shaun looks when his physique is pumped up.
The 212 division is growing in popularity, and Clarida will have his hands full with contenders later this year. Breon Ansley, who gave Chris Bumstead trouble in the Classic Physique category, announced his switch to the 212 and said fans should expect another ’10 pounds of muscle mass’ when he hits the stage later this year.
RELATED: Bodybuilder Shaun Clarida Crushes A Demanding Chest And Delts Workout
With top contenders from last year and new blood like Ansley, fans are in store for an epic 212 showcase at the 2023 Olympia show. Clarida, who has flipped the switch for prep, plans to bring his best look to date in the near future.
Published: 26 June, 2023 | 9:56 PM EDT
Shaun Clarida Clears The Air About Competing in Open at the Olympia
Is Shaun Clarida heading to the Olympia stage in the Open division?
Shaun Clarida will compete in the Open division at the 2022 Olympia forgoing a return to the 212 division. At least that was according to fellow Open competitor Iain Valliere who spoke on Clarida’s status. It appears however that Clarida himself has something to say about that.
It appears that former 212 kingpin Shaun Clarida has made a decision about his competitive future. Qualified for both the 212 and Men’s Open Bodybuilding division at the 2022 Olympia, many wondered which division he would choose to compete in. Now it appears that we could have an answer according to another competitor.
Top Open competitor Iain Valliere may have just answered the question for us. In a recent interview clip Valliere all but confirmed that Shaun Clarida has chosen to compete in the Open division. While Valliere also states that he shouldn’t be quoted on the statement, he does say he’s “92 percent sure” that Clarida will be competing against the big boys.
“To my understanding, if he’s qualified in both, his choice is to do the Open,” said Iain Valliere. “Don’t quote me on that, but I’m 92% sure.”
To be honest it makes sense that Shaun Clarida would choose to compete in Open. When we consider the accolades associated with the Open division versus the 212 division it can’t be denied that being crowned Mr. Olympia is it’s own distinct honor. Seeing as how Clarida has already conquered the 212 division in the past, overcoming a new challenge is likely more preferable. With Flex Lewis retired from competition, Clarida has the opportunity to be the first man to win the 212 and Open titles.
Clearing The Air
However, Shaun Clarida has now issued a statement claiming that the rumors are just that, rumors.
LET ME CLEAR THE AIR…
I’ve have NOT announced or made a decision on whether I was doing either 212 or Open at the Olympia. And the option of doing both is not off the table, as I’m awaiting the final decision from the IFBB and the committee on that.
So unless it comes directly from MY mouth, it’s all #FAKENEWS
If he does choose to compete in Open it will be no easy task. Shaun Clarida would be to stepping into the domain of massive bodybuilders like Big Ramy, Hadi Choopan, Brandon Curry, Nick Walker, and Hunter Labrada. That said, Clarida has all the tools necessary to take his game to the next level. He possesses the potential to pull off the upset and shock the world at the 2022 show. It’s an uphill road, but Clarida can make the assent.
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News and Editorial Writer 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.
Shaun Clarida Shares Crazy Off Season Leg Day Training
Shaun Clarida pushes through a massive leg day training.
Shaun Clarida shares his intense off season leg day training as he preps for the 2022 Olympia. Looking to pull off a major upset in the Men’s Open division, Clarida is pushing himself hard to pack on some serious muscle.
Shaun Clarida is an absolute beast to say the least. The former reigning 212 champion wowed the bodybuilding world when he took to stage in the Men’s Open division. Not only did Clarida move up, but he won and qualified for the 2022 Olympia. The feat is far from common. With the qualification Clarida is making the case to be a pound for pound great bodybuilder.
Hoping to prove that he can be the next “giant killer”, Shaun Clarida has been hard at work refining his physique. While he says he still may compete in the 212 division, Clarida will still need to build some quality muscle if he hopes to compete against the likes of Big Ramy and Brandon Curry.
How He Can Set Himself Apart
It’s no secret that Shaun Clarida will be one of the smaller bodybuilders to step on stage in the Men’s Open division. Despite that fact Clarida still has an opportunity to pull off a massive upset. But how will he get it done?
Conditioning.
One of the best conditioned athletes in bodybuilding, Shaun Clarida never fails to show up on stage diced and shredded. While he may not be able to outsize the opposition, Clarida has the ability to show up with better conditioning.
Leg Day Training
But while conditioning may be the key for Shaun Clarida to win, that doesn’t mean he isn’t still putting on size. In a recent intense leg day training session, Clarida is looking to pack on some muscle. While he may not be lifting ridiculous weight, his strategy will still prove to be helpful to build quality muscle.
“Leg day. Everyone’s favorite day of the week,” said Shaun Clarida. “We got some new toys in the gym which you guys will see shortly. Pretty basic today. Again, today is my main quad focus day. So you’re going to see a lot of movements for quads, one or two for hamstrings. My second hamstring is later in the week as well. Leg day, not much to say, let’s get going.”
Full Leg Day Training
Seated Calf Raises Machine — 1st set 10 reps, 2nd set 10 reps, 3rd set 8 reps
Standing Calf Stretch
Hip Abductor Machine — 1st set 12 reps, 2nd set 12 reps, 3rd set 10 reps, 4th set 12 reps
Seated Hamstring/Leg Curl Machine — 1st set 11 reps, 2nd set 11 reps, 10 reps
Leg Extension Machine – 1st set 20 reps, 2nd set 25 reps, 3rd set 15 reps 4th set 15 reps with 10 partials
Pendulum Squat Machine — 1st set 8 reps, 2nd set 7 reps, 3rd set 8 reps 4th set 6 reps
Lying Leg Press Machine — 1st set 10 reps, 2nd set 8 reps, 3rd set 10 reps
Stiff-legged Dumbbell Romanian Deadlift — 1st set 10 reps, 2nd set 10 reps
Lunges with Chain — 1st set 18 reps, 2nd set 15 reps, 3rd set 30 reps
To see his full leg day training click here.
What do you think of Shaun Clarida and his intense off season leg day training?
For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
News and Editorial Writer 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.
Shaun Clarida Hits Offseason Arm Workout That Will Split Your Sleeves
Shaun Clarida continues to build incredible size during his offseason training.
Shaun Clarida is a former Olympia champion in the 212 division. He won this honor in 2020 before being upset by Derek Lunsford in 2021. Clarida might be looking to step it up in divisions and an arm workout like this can help build necessary size.
Clarida made his Men’s Open debut during the 2021 Legion Sports Fest. He won the competition and earned qualification to the Olympia in the Men’s Open division. To this point, it is unknown if he will compete and if he does, which division it will be. Clarida has expressed interest in competing in both 212 and Men’s Open.
If he is to make his Olympia debut in Men’s Open, Shaun Clarida will certainly have some competition. The caliber of talent is high and this is why Clarida will have to continue to build size. This arm workout is one that can help accomplish this goal if Clarida has his eye on Las Vegas in December.
Shaun Clarida Full Arm Workout
Tricep Rope Pushdown
The tricep rope pushdown began the arm workout for Clarida. He explained that he likes to begin his workouts with isolation arm workouts to warm up the biceps and triceps. This allows Clarida to get comfortable before performing more complex movements. He began with two warmups before two to three working sets.
Cable Curl
After warming up the triceps, Clarida begins to work the biceps a bit. He uses a D-Handle during this workout because of the benefits of the grip. Clarida performed two warmup sets before two to three working sets. The final set was a unilateral variation where he performed a umber of sets with one arm before moving to the other.
Single-Arm Overhead Tricep Extension
This is another isolated motion from Shaun Clarida during this workout. He explains that this is one of his favorite movements in the gym because of the pump that it gives his triceps. This is the first exercise that begins a normalized three set, 10-rep plan.
EZ Bar Curl x Underhand D-Handle Tricep Pressdown
Clarida performs this exercise with an EZ Bar because it removes wrist mobility during the lift. This barbell also helps build muscle-fiber recruitment. Clarida takes on this workout with a 30-pound barbell before working it up to 100 pounds. Following the EZ Bar curls, Clarida supersets them with an underhand D-Handle pressdown. This is a movement that isolates the long head of the triceps.
Cross-Body Dumbbell Hammer Curl
One of the final exercises of the day are cross-body dumbbell hammer curls. This is a neutral-grip curl that works the brachialis in the bicep. Clarida has been a mass monster on stage and this is necessary as he begins to transition to Men’s Open. This is a workout to build that size and thickness for the stage.
Overhead Cable Extension
The final workout of the day came while seated on a military bench. Clarida set the machine at shoulder height to perform the overhead cable extension. This is a variation of a skull crusher, which is another big-time workout to build size in the triceps.
Shaun Clarida Arm Workout Breakdown
Tricep Rope Pushdown: 6-7 sets of 10, double drop set on the final set
Cable Curl: 6-7 sets of 10
Single-Arm Overhead Tricep Extension: 3 sets of 10
EZ-Bar Curl: 3 sets of 10
Underhand D-handle Tricep Pressdown: 3 sets of 10
Cross-Body Dumbbell Hammer Curl: 3 sets of 10
Overhead Cable Extension: 3 sets of 10
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Hardcore Truth: Olympia Is Telling Shaun Clarida He Can Only Compete In One Division
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Johnnie O. Jackson connected with Shaun Clarida – who told him that currently he is being asked to only compete in one division at the Olympia.
Late last year, Shaun Clarida made headlines by winning a Men’s Open bodybuilding competition at the Legion Sports Fest Pro. With his win, he is now qualified to compete in both Men’s 212 and Men’s Open. Since then, Clarida has signaled that he desires to possibly compete in both divisions at Olympia 2022. As this is a rare occurance, he planned to speak further with the Olympia team to figure out his options. Since then we have heard little on this story. In our latest episode of Hardcore Truth, Johnnie O. Jackson gets an update from Shaun Clarida – learning that as of now, the Olympia is only letting him choose one division.
Every once in a while, there are rare moments that occur in the world of pro bodybuilding that require a deeper glance at the league rule books. Shaun Clarida qualifying for the Mr. Olympia in two divisions is one such occasion. It led both Clarida himself and fans to wonder if he could compete in two divisions at the Olympia concurrently. Seemingly, there would be no reason not to – other than his own personal preference to not have to compete double the amount in one weekend.
However, Johnnie O. Jackson reconnected with Shaun Clarida this week to get an update on his Men’s 212 vs Men’s Open Olympia plans. From what he was told by Clarida himself, it seems the Olympia is making him choose just one division to compete in. While no details were given as to why this is the case – it seems as if perhaps the double qualification might conflict with some lesser known guidelines for the Olympia weekend. Jackson also reached out directly to Dan Soloman for comment – who has yet to respond since the time of this writing and recording.
If we’re speculating, it seems that this might fall under some sort of technicality. Similar to the small uproar that transpired after it was revealed that Flex Lewis was not technically qualified for the Men’s Open Mr. Olympia this year. According to the Olympia team earlier this year, Lewis would either need to directly qualify or receive a special invite. As of now, he has yet to officially receive such an invite – though it seems inevitable this will happen.
However, Johnnie O. Jackson thinks that whatever guideline that is requiring Shaun Clarida to choose one division is foolish. Jackson points out that Clarida is not asking for a favor or a handout. He fair and square qualified for two different divisions. In Jackson’s mind, the only reason he should not be allowed to compete in both is if both events happened at the same exact time. But we know from past years that this is not the case.
Now is it a good idea for Shaun Clarida to split his energy into two divisions? That’s up for personal debate. But if Clarida desires to do so – he should not be held back since he earned both with his own effort. Jackson points out that in the past when the Master Olympia still existed (which might return, by the way), a bodybuilder was allowed to compete in both the Masters division and the Men’s Open division at the Olympia. So why can’t Clarida do the same?
Ultimately, things may change. While Shaun Clarida confirms that he is currently being asked by the Olympia to only choose one division – an exception might later be made as we get closer to the show. Much like how we assume Flex Lewis will eventually receive his official special invite. Since Dan Soloman has yet to respond back to Johnnie O. Jackson, we don’t have a definitive statement on the subject other than Clarida’s word. Time will tell how this unfolds.
Until then, what side of the decision to you fall on? Do you think it’s fair to only let Shaun Clarida compete in one Olympia division? Let us know in the video comments or on our social media channels! You can watch Johnnie O. Jackson’s full comments in the latest episode of Hardcore Truth above!
Shaun Clarida Gives Health and Physique Update
Shaun Clarida recently revealed the state of his health.
Shaun Clarida recently took time to inform his fans and the world on the state of his health. The 2020 212 Olympia champion gave a quick physique update to go along with the health update.
After shocking many with his move to the Open Bodybuilding division this past fall, Shaun Clarida has taking time away from the stage. He has qualified comfortably for both the Open and 212 divisions for the 2022 Olympia.
Now that he has the down time available, Shaun Clarida decided to take a much needed break. But not just that. The former 212 champion decided to check in on his health. Considering that so many of his peers have been passing away untimely, this is a smart move from Clarida. Health is true wealth after all and he’s decided not to take his for granted.
Health Update
In a recent Instagram post, Shaun Clarida gave a physique update as well as a full breakdown of his current vitals.
Last Update of 2021: Life, health, plans.
Current weight-198.2
Since my last show in October, I haven’t been pushing anything (food, training, supps, etc) with the purpose of cleaning my body out and ultimately giving it a break to rest and recover.
During this time, I also made sure to get my blood work done, as well as get my heart checked (EKG, Calcium Score). And I was happy to hear that all my levels (BP, Cholesterol, Organs, etc.) are all good and my CT Cardio Score was a 0. For those that have never gotten a calcium core, 0 is perfect meaning no plaque within the arteries of the heart and less likelihood of heart disease and a heart attack. Of course getting this all done is always a scary thing but knowing is always better than not because you may have time to address any issues before it’s too late.
Now that the body is full rested, recovered and all good to go, now we start the push toward the 2022 ⭕️lympia.
*A full video update will be dropping on my YouTube page next week discussing in more detail everything mentioned here.
Health is Wealth
If you don’t have health then you don’t have anything. It’s an old adage for a reason. Because no matter how much wealth, fame, or glory one achieves, without having optimal health all those things are meaningless. Considering the great bodybuilders lost over the past few years it rings more true than ever. It is truly sad to think about all the souls who have been taken just in 2021 alone. As such it’s great to see 2020 212 Olympia champion Shaun Clarida is taking his health seriously.
Hopefully this clean bill of health will continue and that other bodybuilders follow his example and check in on their health.
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News and Editorial Writer 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.
Milos Sarcev: Shaun Clarida Can Beat Big Ramy… Under One Condition
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Milos Sarcev discusses Shaun Clarida’s Men’s Open victory in 2021… and why he should seriously consider competing in both Men’s 212 and Men’s Open at Olympia next year.
Shaun Clarida may not have won the Men’s 212 Olympia this year, but he shocked the world in a different way by claiming victory in the Men’s Open at the Legion Sports Fest Pro 2021. This wasn’t a slouch contest either. Clarida took down the likes of Regan Grimes and Sergio Oliva Jr. in the lineup. Shortly after the victory, Clarida mused about attempting to compete in both the Men’s 212 and Men’s Open at the Olympia 2022. In our latest GI Exclusive, bodybuilding coach Milos Sarcev explains why Shaun Clarida should be allowed to compete in both divisions… and why he thinks it’s possible Clarida can beat current Olympia Champion Big Ramy.
Milos Sarcev recently started training Regan Grimes in an attempt to help the promising athlete reach his full potential. He believes that Grimes can do truly fantastic things in the near future. But during his time coaching Grimes, he witnessed former Men’s 212 Olympia champion Shaun Clarida defeat Regan Grimes in a Men’s Open show. While Grimes remains optimistic moving forward and maintains sportsman-like respect for Clarida – the loss was a frustrating blow for the hungry competitor.
But from Milos Sarcev’s viewpoint, this isn’t a devastating loss to a Men’s 212 athlete. In Sarcev’s eyes, Shaun Clarida is such a phenomenal athlete that he transcends divisions. In fact, Sarcev believes that Shaun Clarida can defeat nearly any pro bodybuilder currently competing today. This includes the entire line up of the Men’s Open division – including current Olympia champion Big Ramy.
This might sound unrealistic – but many thought Shaun Clarida competing in the Men’s Open at the Legion Sports Fest Pro was unrealistic as well. Clarida might have be a bit on the extreme side of the shorter bodybuilders, but his conditioning and aesthetic are nearly unmatched. Sarcev believes that if Clarida can learn how to use posing to give the illusion that he’s larger – he can dominate in Men’s Open.
“Shaun Clarida, great champion, yeah of course he can beat anybody,” Milos Sarcev states in our interview. He continues:
“He can beat, you name it, he can beat Big Ramy if judging criteria is gonna go this way. If you are particular about projecting his height, weight, structure, and then, you know, what would he look like if he was six feet tall.”
Milos Sarcev goes on to explain it’s this exact kind of posing training that he is also employing with Regan Grimes. He felt that Grimes did not have enough time to build up size needed for upcoming shows – so he focused also on training him on how to appear bigger and focus on his strong points. For Grimes it’s his conditioning and symmetry.
Milos Sarcev sees the same kind of spectacular strengths in Shaun Clarida. In fact, as stated above, Sarcev sees Clarida to have one of the best physiques in bodybuilding. If he was able to learn how to further manipulate his size – and if the judges even slightly lean towards that direction (as they did in 2018 when Shawn Rhoden won the Mr. Olympia), Sarcev thinks that Clarida could take down someone like Big Ramy.
Sarcev goes on later in our interview to share his thoughts on competing in two divisions at the Mr. Olympia. Sarcev believes that Shaun Clarida should be 100% allowed to do both Men’s 212 and Men’s Open. He qualified for both. This means he earned both. It’s not an easy thing to do. If Clarida earned qualification – Milos Sarcev strongly believes that nothing should stop him from competing in both. With the two events on two separate days, he even finds the idea physically possible to successfully achieve.
You can watch Milos Sarcev’s full comments on Shaun Clarida and the Olympia divisions in our latest GI Exclusive interview segment above.
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