Tag: Weightlifting
Sarah Robles Wins Bronze At 2020 Olympic Games
American weightlifter Sarah Robles took home the bronze medal in Tokyo.
Sarah Robles went into Monday’s final in the Women’s +87-kg category at the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo looking to return to the medal stand. After a strong performance, Robles earned bronze for the second-straight Olympics and became the first U.S. woman to win two Olympic weightlifting medals.
It was a competition full of storylines, headlined by Laurel Hubbard and her journey to become the first transgender athlete to compete in the Olympic Games. By the end of the day, Robles had stole the show.
Robles successfully completed five of her six lifts to total 282-kg (621.7lb). She went three-for-three on snatches, with her final attempt being 128-kg (282.1lb). Robles then completed a clean & jerk of 154-kg (339.5lb). She missed on her sixth and final attempt of the day. This allowed British weightlifter Emily Campbell to erase a deficit and earn silver. China’s Li Wenwen took home gold in the competition.
Sarah Robles has been one of the best powerlifters for the U.S. for nearly a decade. At 33 years old, Robles became the oldest American woman to medal at the Olympics and the second-oldest to compete. She finished sixth at the 2012 London Olympics and earned bronze during the 2016 Rio Games.
The success for Robles has not just taken place at the Olympics. Since 2009, she has represented America at the World Weightlifting Championships. This includes three gold medals in 2017 in the snatch, clean & jerk, and total. Robles has also seen great success at the Pan American Championships, where she has won overall four years in a row from 2017-2020.
Robles took to Instagram to celebrate her medal. Her performance came just one day after her birthday.
This victory solidified Sarah Robles as one of the all-time greats in American powerlifting. It is unknown if she will compete at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris but if this performance was any indication, it looks like there are plenty of good years of competing left in the tank for Robles.
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Laurel Hubbard Out Of Olympic Games But Continues to Make History
Laurel Hubbard put on a groundbreaking performance and made history at the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo. She became the first transgender athlete to complete at the Olympics but her journey came to an end on Monday.
Hubbard failed to complete a single lift in her three attempts during the 87-kg finals. The New Zealand weightlifter failed her first attempt of a 120-kg snatch when the bar went over her head and behind her neck. Hubbard then completed what she thought was a successful lift of 125 kg but the judges did not agree. They ruled it a no-lift and Hubbard was down to her final attempt. The bar went over her head once again on attempt three and Hubbard was eliminated.
Laurel Hubbard did not earn a medal at the Olympic Games but she was still a major topic of conversation. There was plenty of debates about whether or not she should be able to compete.
In the end, the International Olympic Committee believed that Hubbard met all requirements for trans athletes and fair competition. The debate continued throughout the games but Hubbard was able to compete in Tokyo without any further issues. Before making her exit, Hubbard made sure to gesture to the crowd and did so by patting her chest and making a heart with her hands to show appreciation.
“I would particularly like to thank the IOC, for I think really affirming its commitment to the principles of Olympism and establishing that sport is something for all people, that it is inclusive and is accessible,” Hubbard said the the media.
Laurel Hubbard began her gender transition at the age of 35. She did not compete as a weightlifter at the international level up until this point. At 43 years old, Hubbard was able to make it to the Olympic Games. Hubbard’s testosterone levels were still greater than the standard for biological women but the IOC gave her approval and she was able to make a statement with her performance.
“I see the Olympic Games as a global celebration of our hopes, ideals and values and I would like to thank the IOC for its commitment to making sport inclusive and accessible,” Hubbard said in a statement provided by the IOC on Friday.
Hubbard was the oldest competitor in the finals. Sarah Elizabeth Robles was the closest to Hubbard in age at 43. Before going through her transition, Hubbard took some time away from lifting. What she was able to do will spark plenty of conversation but Hubbard is hoping to be an inspiration to many and make a change moving forward.
Hampton Morris Sets Youth World Record With 155-Kg Clean & Jerk
Hampton Morris impresses with a new youth world record in the Clean & Jerk.
Hampton Morris competed in the Junior Pan-American Weightlifting Championships in Manizales, Colombia looking to make some noise. That is exactly what he did in a big way. On Saturday, July 10, Morris set a youth world record with a 155-kg (341.7lb) clean & jerk.
The 17-year-old weightlifter competing in the 61-kg weight class stepped up and made it look easy. His father and coach, Tripp Morris, captured the record-setting lift and proudly shared it via Instagram.
There is something special about a young competitor. It could be the raw talent and strength at such a young age or it could be the maturity and patience that is present. Hampton Morris displayed both early in his life. He began entered his first competition back in July of 2016 and has been setting records ever since. Morris credits his father for getting him involved in the sport.
Hampton Morris began his day on Saturday with a failed snatch attempt of 112 kg (246.9lb). He was successful on his second attempt to lock in the weight. Morris was successful on all three attempts of his clean & jerk. Prior to setting the record, Morris hit a 145-kg (319.7lb) and 151-kg (332.9lb) lift. He finished with a total of 267 kg (588.6lb) total when the two lifts when added together.
After completing this lift, Morris now holds 15 American records. He is one of four people who have set a Youth record at an international meet, joining Harrison Maurus, Clarence Cummings Jr., and Cheryl Haworth.
Morris beat out his Senior American record of a 154-kg clean & jerk that he set during the 2021 USAW National Championship in Detroit. Prior to that, Morris came out on top during the Rouge Fitness “Bella Complex” challenge. Morris competed in the Male Light division and scored 145.2 kg (320lb).
The current Senior world record in the clean & jerk is 174 kg held by Indonesia’s Eko Yuli. The 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games will take place from July 23-August 8, where this record has a chance to be bested. Maurus and Cummings Jr. will be representing Team USA at the event.
With competitors like Hampton Morris leading the way, the United States has a chance to make a serious impact in the net Olympic cycles. Morris is already a force and that will only continue as he continues to mature and get even stronger.
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Pioneer Custom Dyed Weightlifting Belts Review
Lift in style with these custom dyed lifting belts from Pioneer.
Product Overview
When it comes to lifting big and maximizing our gains, a weightlifting belt is one of those lifting tools that is essential in our gym bag. With many benefits to keeping us safe for longevity and more stable for better performance, it is no wonder why so many lifters have gravitated towards using a belt. As an efficient lifting tool to really maximize all gains, a weightlifting belt can change anyone’s mind once they pack on the weight. Pioneer Custom Dyed Weightlifting Belts offer a great quality belt that can be customized to whatever you like so you lift in style, but more importantly, your style.
While a weightlifting belt is not a back brace, with the increased engagement of your core and better stabilization when under so much weight, it will alleviate stress on your low back to allow for less pain and better range of motion. By using a weightlifting belt, it will allow you to worry less about that unwanted pain and more about form and your actual workout (1,2).
Shop at Pioneer
Pioneer is a division of General Leathercraft Manufacturing, Inc., a premiere company creating high-quality leather products including weightlifting belts and other exercise accessories and aids. With a great product line dedicated to assisting the needs of athletes everywhere, Pioneer has made it their mission to keep active individuals healthy and safe, especially as they lift big weight. Along with an amazing line of lifting belts, Pioneer also produces top tier knee wraps, wrist wraps, elbow wraps, and other equipment to keep athletes safe overall. Their mission is to provide great customer service and a product you will love to have and use. A company full of integrity and quality, Pioneer is a standout in the exercise equipment community.
Custom Dyed Belts Option
When it comes to Pioneer’s customization belt options, you can choose from five options to support your weightlifting needs.
Custom Dyed Lever Belts
This option comes in 3’’ or 4’’ all the way around and your choice of thickness to give you a durable and high-quality belt to last a lifetime. The adjustable lever allows for adjustment every half inch so your belt fits just right to offer the most versatility for your lifts.
Pioneer Cut Custom Dyed Power Belts
The Pioneer Cut is a patent pending design unique in that it allows for ½’’ increments as opposed to the traditional 1’’. That means you can find the best fit for you belt so you remain safe and with the correct tightness. This version is also available in 3’’ or 4’’ all the way around with your choice of thickness.
4’’ Custom Dyed Pioneer Cut Training Belts
Also including that patent pending Pioneer Cut design, these training belts are available with 4’’ in the back and taper to 2.5’’ on the sides and front. A great option for comfort and training, this belt is one to check out.
4’’ Custom Dyed Training Belts
Similar to the Pioneer Cut Training Belts, these are 4’’ in the back and taper to 2.5’’ on the sides and front. Perfect for training with the wider back and more narrow front, this allows for comfort and a great feel when under so much weight.
Custom Dyed Power Belts
These power belts are single pronged and are 3’’ or 4’’ all the way around with your choice of thickness. The rounded tongue option on these is only available in the 4’’ power belts, not the 3’’. Great for those looking for a more snug and secure feel, these power belts are awesome for lifting huge weight.
Customization Process
The custom dyed weightlifting belts are hand dyed by using a professional dye in house. For optimal quality, they are treated with a conditioner, polish, and sealant to really maximize look and longevity. These belts are built using the same 100% Vegetable Tanned Sole Leather that is used for all their belts and the customization is easy and allows for many options.
When looking to customize, you will start with your belt option and move onto custom dye options. From there you will choose your color and a fade option if you’d like to give the belt that extra dimension of style. For those looking to customize the outside and inside of their belt with a laser-burned message, you have that option as well to place it on the belt, on the loop, on the tongue, and to even laser-burn an image. Moving to the inside, you will have the option to embroider a message inside as well as choose your interior color. Next is the buckle type, belt tongue, buckle color, black edging, and stitch color to really round out your unique custom belt.
With so many options to choose from and an easy-to-use customization tool bar on their site, creating your unique belt is easy, fun, and will produce a great lifting belt for you.
Price & Effectiveness
As we look to the pricing of these belts, it is important to know that these prices listed below are solely for the starting cost of the belt. All customization options may have an additional price for each part of the above process so just be aware when customizing your own belt.
Custom Dyed Lever Belts: $152.00-$182.00
Pioneer Cut Custom Dyed Power Belts: $152.00-$182.00
4’’ Custom Dyed Pioneer Cut Training Belts: $152.00
4’’ Custom Dyed Training Belts: $132.00
Custom Dyed Power Belts: $132.00-$162.00
Pros
High-quality leather belts built to last
Great options in the lever belts and Pioneer Cut design
Awesome customization option throughout the whole process
From a reputable company in Pioneer
Cons
Premium priced options
Price can get more expensive with more customization options
Check out our list of the Best Weightlifting Belts for more great lifting products!
Overall Value
Pioneer Custom Dyed Weightlifting Belts are a great option for all your lifting belt needs. By using a weightlifting belt you work to tackle any issues when it comes to pain and strain, while also giving yourself the edge when it comes to performance. By offering more balance and stability, you can really tackle any big lift that comes your way. What you are really getting is a high-quality belt with awesome customization options for your style from a company who knows the needs of lifters. Check out Pioneer Custom Dyed Weightlifting Belts and see what these can do for your massive lifts today.
Try Pioneer Custom Dyed Weightlifting Belts Today
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*Images courtesy of Pioneer and Envato
References
Miyamoto, K.; Iinuma, N.; Maeda, M.; Wada, E.; Shimizu, K. (1999). “Effects of abdominal belts on intra-abdominal pressure, intra-muscular pressure in the erector spinae muscles and myoelectrical activities of trunk muscles”. (source)
Finnie, S. B.; Wheeldon, T. J.; Hensrud, D. D.; Dahm, D. L.; Smith, J. (2002). “Weight Lifting Belt: Motivations For Use”. (source)
Laurel Hubbard Will Be The First Transgender Athlete to Compete at Tokyo Olympics
Laurel Hubbard to be the first transgender athlete to compete at the Olympics.
Major change is coming to the Tokyo Olympic Games. It appears that Laurel Hubbard will be the first transgender athlete to compete at the Olympic Games. This historic occurrence is sure to be a controversial one.
Got the transgender community it’s certainly a major victory. But the arguments against this action are mounting and an accelerated pace. Many are upset that the transgender athlete who was born male and transitioned is competing against athletes who were born biologically female.
Making History
Despite the criticism, Laurel Hubbard will indeed be competing for New Zealand at the Olympic Games.
The weightlifter from New Zealand who competes in the women’s 87kg division made this official statement about being given the right to compete at the Tokyo Olympics.
“I am grateful and humbled by the kindness and support that has been given to me by so many New Zealanders,” said Hubbard.
“When I broke my arm at the Commonwealth Games three years ago, I was advised that my sporting career had likely reached its end. But your support, your encouragement, and your aroha carried me through the darkness.
“The last eighteen months has shown us all that there is strength in kinship, in community, and in working together towards a common purpose. The mana of the silver fern comes from all of you and I will wear it with pride.”
Great deal of individuals have responded less than kindly to the news. Many believe that Laurel Hubbard has an unfair advantage having being born a biological male. The argument is that Hubbard had loved most of her life with male physiology and cultivating strength throughout the years. Many women are upset with the idea of a transgender athlete competing at the Olympic Games.
No matter where you stand on the situation, Laurel Hubbard is making history and is shattering all expectations.
What do you think of Laurel Hubbard and her participating at the Tokyo Olympic Games?
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Managing Editor at Generation Iron, Jonathan Salmon is a writer, martial arts instructor, and geek culture enthusiast. Check out his YouTube, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and Sound Cloud for in-depth MMA analysis.
How Nicotine Can Affect Weightlifting & Muscle Growth
While nicotine is a stimulant, the negative impact on our fitness may deter you from using this as an “aid”.
Nicotine is one of those drugs so many wish they could put down. That “buzz” you briefly experience can be one of the most addicting things people chase. Since nicotine comes in the form of so many different products, it is impossible to not be around it. From cigarettes, to vapes, to chewing tobacco and the many alternatives that now exist, nicotine is just always around. As bodybuilders and athletes, we take our health and wellness seriously but sometimes we cave and those vices creep in. Nicotine may just be one of them for you.
Since we take our health and fitness seriously, drinking tends to not be an option as a way to calm down. The excess calories and, of course, that terrible hangover, tends to deter us from partaking in this form of enjoyment. Smoking is obviously out of the question for it would simply kill all the goals you’ve worked so hard for. But with so many alternatives around, it can be easy to get our nicotine fix without totally killing all of our gains.
Let’s take a look at nicotine and what it does to our bodies. The affect it has on weightlifting and muscle growth can make or break whether or not we decide to use it. While it is addicting, it is still possible to get off it and find a new vice, potentially something that will work for our gains. But, here, regardless of your decision, there’s no judgement.
What Is Nicotine?
Nicotine is a highly addictive chemical compound found in the tobacco plant. Common misperceptions surround nicotine in terms of what is bad and what is not bad for you. Nicotine is the addictive substance but tobacco is what causes much of the health complications with people. Nicotine is a stimulant that has an effect on both your body and mind.
Through ingesting nicotine, your brain releases dopamine, a neurotransmitter which makes you feel good. It will also jack up your heart rate and increase blood pressure and blood flow and while these sound like what you want out of your stimulant products, there are other ways to get this done (1).
Negative Effects On Our Fitness
Despite this substance being a stimulant, with many people telling you to mix caffeine in your routine before you start, there are downsides to putting this into your body, especially before a grueling workout (2).
Increasing Heart Rate & Blood Pressure
By increasing your heart rate, you do put more strain on your heart to pump blood, and when mixed with a hard workout, this can really add to that strain. With an increase in blood pressure, it can make it difficult for blood to get around your body, thereby offering your body less nutrients (3).
Appetite Suppression
Nicotine tends to suppress our appetite, giving us the out when it comes to eating, and eating well at that. For those us looking to put some real strength and size, eating a well-balanced diet is exactly what we need to make that happen. If we suppress our appetite then we are doing ourselves no favors (4).
Breathing & Endurance
This may go without saying, but depending on the form you ingest nicotine, it can seriously start to affect your breathing and endurance when it comes to activities. With less desire for cardio, and making cardio harder at that, you take away one element to help you get more shredded than before.
Decrease Testosterone
To stick with smoking and ingesting nicotine that way, the chances of this lowering your levels of testosterone have been studied, and while results vary, some say this to be true. Lower testosterone leads to less drive, decreased libido, but worse, less natural muscle building and fat burning potential (5).
But Nicotine’s A Stimulant…
While this is true, there are other stimulants you can take to boost your workouts and provide for that much needed energy. For those who stay away from supplements, or feel something like a pre-workout is unnecessary, you should rethink that strategy to start, but also look to caffeine, whether that be coffee or green tea, to kickstart your workouts. Looking into a great pre-workout can give you energy, pumps, and get the blood flowing without you worrying about any health risks that may come from nicotine.
Featured Supplement For Energy & Muscle Pumps
Transparent Labs PreSeries BULK
Backed by science with clinically effective dosages, this pre-workout is most effective for those looking to increase in size and muscle mass. BULK contains 6,000 mg of citrulline malate, 4,000 mg of beta-alanine, 4,000 mg of BCAAs, and 2,500 mg of betaine to boost your workouts, blood flow, and muscle growth. BULK will reduce fatigue and increase your energy to give you a more impactful and longer lasting workout. Transparent Labs prides themselves on a 100% label and there are artificial additives, colorings, or preservatives to ruin this clean product.
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Check out our list of the Best Pre-Workouts for more stim, and even some non-stim, pre-workout supplements!
Wrap Up
Nicotine is a highly addictive substance and sometimes with our busy lives and hectic schedules we just need a break to unwind. But for those of us who take our bodybuilding and workout goals seriously, this can really hurt us and start to affect everything we want most out of our fitness goals. While nicotine may be a stimulant, it is important to remember that there are other stimulants out there and ways to get our heart rate going and blood pumping to maximize our workouts. Looking to a great pre-workout can help us get there, as well as simply just a cup of coffee, for example. So, while nicotine may seem like the easy option, looking for some alternatives will help pay off in the long run.
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 Transparent Labs and Envato
References
Benowitz, Neal L. (2010). “Nicotine Addiction”. (source)
Mishra, Aseem; Chaturvedi, Pankaj; Datta, Sourav; Sinukumar, Snita; et al. (2015). “Harmful effects of nicotine”. (source)
Gajewska, M.; Worth, A.; Urani, C.; Briesen, H.; et al. (2014). “The acute effects of daily nicotine intake on heart rate – A toxicokinetic and toxicodynamic modelling study”. (source)
Jessen, A.; Buemann, B.; Toubro, S.; Skovgaard, M.; Astrup, A. (2004). “The appetite-suppressant effect of nicotine is enhanced by caffeine”. (source)
Hruskovicova, H.; Duskova, M.; Simunkova, K., Hill, M.; et al. (2012). “Effects of Smoking Cessation on Hormonal Levels in Men”. (source)