Jessica Nicole Dolias wins the 2023 Southern Muscle Pro Showdown!
The 2023 Southern Muscle Pro took place in Dalton, GA with the Bikini division on display fighting for a spot in the biggest show of the year.
The Olympia qualification system has changed this year. If an athlete did not finish in the top three in the previous year, or top five in Men’s Open, they will have to win a show to qualify. The points qualification system is no more. Also, former winners of a Mr. Olympia title have lifetime eligibility.
The full results from the show have been announced. Below, check out the full breakdown, along with an official scorecard.
The biography, life, and accomplishments of bodybuilder Rich Gaspari
Rich Gaspari is a well known bodybuilder that has remained active in the industry with his supplement brand, Gaspari Nutrition. He also was rumored to have had below 3% body fat, which is unheard of. Rich Gaspari is nothing short of a phenomenon.
Below is a complete breakdown of Rich Gaspari’s profile, stats, biography, training and diet regimens.
Full Name: Rich Gaspari (Men’s Bodybuilder)
Weight
Height
Date Of Birth
225 lbs
5’9″
5/16/1963
Division
Era
Nationality
Men’s Bodybuilding
1980, 1990
America
Rich Gaspari Biography
Nicknamed the “Dragon Slayer”, Rich Gaspari is an IFBB-certified pro bodybuilder who was born in 1963 in New Brunswick, New Jersey who is most famous for being one of the richest men in bodybuilding due to his supplement company, Gaspari Nutrition. Though he never won a Mr. Olympia, it just goes to show that competing is no longer the sole income of a professional bodybuilder.
Rich was a feared, yet admired individual in the fitness industry, as he brought a package to the stage that was nowhere near matched in many competitions. Gaspari went pro early in his career, in the year of 1984, and made his pro debut at the World Amateur Championships in the same year, where he placed first, not bad for the first time on a pro stage. Although a seven-time Olympia contender, he unfortunately never managed to win the title, but that did not stop him from competing. He was very successful in the sport nonetheless and was inducted into the Muscle Beach Hall of Fame in 2011. In 2013, he was also awarded the Arnold Classic Lifetime Achievement Award.
After Gaspari retired in 1996, he began focusing full-time on his company, Gaspari Nutrition. He also currently stars in the Generation Iron docu-series Gaspari: The New Era.
Competition History
1983 NPC Junior Nationals Overall Winner
1983 NPC Junior Nationals HeavyWeight, 1st place
1983 NPC Nationals HeavyWeight, 5th place
1984 NPC Nationals Light-HeavyWeight, 1st place
1984 World IFBB Amateur Championships Light-HeavyWeight, 1st place
1985 IFBB Night of Champions 2nd place
1985 IFBB Mr. Olympia 3rd place
1986 IFBB Los Angeles Pro Championships Winner
1986 IFBB Mr. Olympia 2nd place
1986 IFBB World Pro Championships Winner
1987 IFBB Grand Prix France Winner
1987 IFBB Grand Prix Germany 2nd place
1987 IFBB Grand Prix Germany (2) Winner
1987 IFBB Mr. Olympia 2nd place
1988 IFBB Grand Prix England 2nd place
1988 IFBB Grand Prix France Winner
1988 IFBB Grand Prix Germany Winner
1988 IFBB Grand Prix Greece 2nd place
1988 IFBB Grand Prix Italy Winner place
1988 IFBB Grand Prix Spain (2) 2nd place
1988 IFBB Grand Prix Spain Winner
1988 IFBB Mr. Olympia 2nd place
1989 IFBB Arnold Classic Winner
1989 IFBB Mr. Olympia 4th place
1990 IFBB Mr. Olympia 5th place
1991 IFBB Arnold Classic 7th place
1991 IFBB Mr. Olympia 10th place
1992 IFBB Arnold Classic 13th place
1994 IFBB Chicago Pro Invitational 16th place
1994 IFBB Niagara Falls Pro Invitational 15th place
1994 IFBB Night of Champions – Did not place
1995 IFBB Canada Pro Cup 5th place
1995 IFBB Night of Champions 12th place
1996 IFBB Canada Pro Cup 11th place
1996 IFBB Florida Pro Invitational 12th place
Earlier in his career, before he went pro and even his first few years as a pro, Rich Gaspari would only compete 2 or 3 times a year. This allowed him to focus on nutrition, training, and recovery to really make improvements before the next show. Many times, bodybuilders will compete too often each year, which leaves them plateauing and not making progress.
Rich Gaspari Diet
In order to look the way he did, sitting at low body fat levels year round and coming in absolutely shredded and full of muscle mass at each show, Rich Gaspari paid close attention to his diet, taking a scientific approach to this aspect of his lifestyle and regimens. So, what did he eat?
Well, for one his calories were high, at a little over 3,000 calories each day. 57 grams of those calories were fat, 421 grams were protein, and 244 grams were carbohydrates. Packing those macros into one day could be challenging, but Rich did it.
Below is a breakdown of Rich Gaspari’s diet:
Breakfast – Protein Shake, 1/2 Cup Egg Whites, 1/2 cup Apple Juice, 1tbsp Peanut Butter
Snack – 1 cup Oats, 1 Banana, 1/2 Egg Whites, Whey Protein
Lunch – 9oz Chicken, 1 cup Brown Rice, 1 cup Broccoli
Snack – 8oz Chicken, 1 Sweet Potato, 1 cup Asparagus
Dinner– 8oz Lean Steak, 1 cup Brown Rice, 1 cup Broccoli
Pre-Workout – Whey Protein, 1/2 cup Egg Whites, 1/2 Apple Juice, 1tbsp Peanut Butter
Post-Workout – 1 cup Yogurt, Whey Protein
Rich Gaspari Training Regimen
Diet and training go hand in hand, and again to stay that big and shredded, Rich Gaspari had an intense workout regimen.
Rich followed the “bro split”, a workout split that involved hitting one muscle group each day, and a week to hit that muscle group again. This meant he would absolutely destroy the muscle, leaving nothing in the tank when it came time to leave the gym for the day. He would then give himself seven days to recover from that training session to attack the muscle group again. This was a similar approach to other bodybuilders of that era, such as Tom Platz and Dorian Yates.
You also can see that he trained abs a few days a week, but abs are on the list of muscles that you can train every day. You use your abdominal muscles with almost every exercise, as they are a key part of stabilization, especially on compound lifts. That being said, the abdominals can take a little bit of overtraining!
Life Outside of Bodybuilding
Rich Gaspari is known as one of the wealthiest bodybuilders in the industry, but it was not through money he won in competition, it was through his supplement brand and business ventures. Gaspari Nutrition is known for supplements from creatine to pre-workouts and protein powders. His brand is known for using high quality formulas that give good results, and has been a huge reason for some of his success.
Rich Gaspari Wrap Up
Overall, despite not winning a Mr. Olympia, Rich Gaspari is a renowned bodybuilder who has had great success in the industry. His supplement company is a leading brand, and he has won many titles by bringing an unmatched physique to each show.
What do you think of Rich Gaspari?
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Let us know what you think in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Here are the full show Bodybuilding results from the 2023 Legion Sports Fest Pro!
The 2023 Legion Sports Fest Pro, organized by the IFBB Pro League, took place over weekend of Oct 7-8th, 2023 in Reno, Nevada, with the athletes gunning for a spot on the Mr. Olympia stage this year. Many divisions in bodybuilding were on display hoping to qualify for the biggest show of the year, including eight IFBB Pro League contests. The winner of the men’s open show was Charles Griffin.
Prejudging took place in the morning with all finals taking place during the night portion of the show. The 2023 Legion Sports Fest Pro served as one of the last platforms for these athletes to secure their spot at Mr. Olympia, slated for November 2-5 in the Orange County Convention Center.
The Olympia qualification system has changed this year. If an athlete did not finish in the top three in the previous year, or top five in Men’s Open, they will have to win a show to qualify. The points qualification system is no more. Also, former winners of an Olympia title have lifetime eligibility.
2023 Legion Sports Fest Pro: All Division Winners
The full results from the show have been announced. Below, check out the full breakdown, along with an official scorecard.
First Place – Terrence Ruffin Second Place – Logan Franklin Third Place – Daryn Shirbayev Fourth Place – Kellen Wilson Fifth Place – Jorge Herrera
Men’s Physique
First Place – Kyron Holden Second Place – Erin Banks Third Place – Andre Ferguson Fourth Place – Rueben Glass Fifth Place – Tyler Smith
Fitness
First Place – Taylor Learmont Second Place – Kristen Pope Third Place – Kayla Rossi Fourth Place – Andrea Glass Fifth Place – Jenny Worth
Figure
First Place – Jessica Reyes Padilla Second Place – Christine Stearns Third Place – Sophie Jenkins Fourth Place – Stacy Steiner Fifth Place – Lacy Schlimmer
Bikini
First Place – Aimee Delgado Second Place – Lacy Rutland Third Place – Aisha Kaipova Fourth Place – Erika Devera Fifth Place – Abbi Gaetano
Women’s Physique
First Place – Julia Monroe Second Place – Susan Graham Third Place – Rachel Reid Fourth Place – JiHye Lee Fifth Place – Jodi Marchuck
Wellness
First Place – Victoria Reyes Villa Second Place – Jennifer Zollars Third Place – Simara Walter Fourth Place – Rian Choi Fifth Place – Elena Sandaevskaia
Men’s Open Winner – Charles Griffen
Charles Griffen burst onto the bodybuilding scene in 2019 when he began making incredible improvements to his physique. In 2021, he finished third at the Tampa Pro, behind only Phil Clahar and Iain Valliere. Last season, he took the stage during the Indy Pro but finished as the runner-up to Blessing Awodibu. After winning the 2022 California State Pro, he earned a trip to the 2022 Olympia, where he finished 14th. He has now joined the ranks as top competitors at this year’s 2023 Mr. Olympia.
Classic Physique Winner – Terrence Ruffin
Terrence Ruffin was the Classic Physique winner at this years Legion Sports Festival. Terrence is known to many as a pro bodybuilder, Air Force Airman, and fitness, trainer, who has competed amongst the greats at the Mr. Olympia, Arnold Classic, and many more competitions.
Men’s Physique Winner – Kyron Holden
The major upset of the event was without question, Kyron Holden winning the Men’s Physique division over Erin Banks. It was a narrow win for Holden who now scores a ticket to the 2023 Olympia and will certainly be a favorite to win.
“If you love life, don’t waste time, for time is what life is made up of.”
The above quote is from the late, great, Bruce Lee. The Jeet Kune Do creator, movie star, and world philosopher was a busy man and regarded his time as one of his greatest commodities. And we should do the same. While we might not all be movie stars or that of celebrity status, we have busy lives. Between work, personal time, relationships, and working out, sometimes we feel spread thin. But our muscle growth shouldn’t suffer just because we are busy.
Many of us are going to the gym and slugging it out in an all-out war against the weights. While guts get the glory and going H.A.M. is definitely a real thing, the old adage of working smarter and not harder definitely applies. Like anything, you want to take a cerebral, as well as action-oriented solution, to your building goals and that starts with research and experimentation. On top of this, seeking advice from professional athletes and those bodybuilders we know and love can go a long way.
Muscle growthseems to be a mysterious topic for a lot of fitness enthusiast. Whether it’s the beginner who doesn’t know where to start or the builder who’s reached a plateau, nailing down a clear and concise plan for muscle growth seems to be elusive…until now.
We have narrowed down three proven ways to boost muscle growth. While there are of course plenty of ways to do so, we wanted to share these 3 tips because we feel they can be very beneficial to you. By putting these into your routine, you set yourself up for better success come your workout.
3 Proven Ways To Boost Muscle Growth
Let’s take a look at 3 proven ways to boost muscle growth so you can get the most out of your muscle building and physique sculpting goals. Stop wasting your time by doing the same stuff and work to build muscle effectively and efficiently so you see the best gains possible.
1. Time Under Tension
Time under tension (TUT) is like the pi symbol in mathematics. It’s the building block for muscle growth, and what you need to focus on if you want to get bigger. Tension promotes amino acid transport into the muscles, activates the mTOR pathway of protein synthesis, and triggers small injuries in the muscle cell structure that leads to repair and additional growth (1).
This added resistance can come in the form of many different exercises, but here is where cable machines can be beneficial. That added level of support while working out, plus the tension of the cable offers resistance great for building gains. Of course, resistance bands are designed for this purpose well.
There are two ways your muscles exert force, concentrically (shortening) and eccentrically (lengthening). Eccentric contractions work when your muscle works against an opposing force and then needs to back track and reverse that movement. The benefit to eccentric contractions are that you will get stronger and increase muscle mass given the added tension and need for the movement to take place (2). Plus, more structurally, you will build stronger connective tissue for additional support.
A great way to apply this to your regular workout would be to load a weight slightly higher than what you normally do for a specific exercise, and have a partner help you with the positive (concentric) portion of the exercise, then do the negative (eccentric) portion without assistance. Not only do you get the benefit of performing this eccentric movement, but you also will have the support of a partner to aid in all your goals.
Your spine is the epicenter combining brain and brawn, literally. With that being said, protecting it should be one of your highest priorities. If you can’t move, you can’t build muscle, so protecting your back is key. One of the best ways of protecting your back while building muscle in the very same area are front squats.
Front squats are great for activation of the vastus medialius (quadriceps) and the biomechanics are better for your body in general than a back squat of the same weight. Front squats can also reinforce form so you take technique more seriously for added safety.
Can Supplements Help Boost Muscle?
Supplements have proven to be great aids to building muscle, so long as they are from reputable brands and contain premium ingredients. Some staple supplements used to increase muscle include things like protein powders to pump you with protein for growth and better recovery (3), pre-workouts to increase energy and get the blood flowing for muscle pumps (4), and BCAAs as intra-workout fuel to stimulate growth and burst through fatigue (5).
However, if you are more advanced and are seeking more out of your supplementation routine, give mass gainers and casein protein a try. Able to pump you with protein, as well as other ingredients, you will find these two supplements are game changers for those serious about building muscle.
When it comes to supplements, finding only the highest quality products will give you comfort in knowing what you are putting in your body is working for you and your gains.
Wrap Up
Building muscle is hard but these 3 ways to boost muscle growth are great as you look to get the most out of each and every workout. While there are many other tips that can help you build muscle like nutrition and adequate rest, we felt these were some of the most overlooked. Incorporate these building blocks into your routine and let us know if it helps you get the most out of your workout. You will find is that muscle growth depends on a number of factors, but at the end of the day, by following the most effective steps, you can get there no problem. With these three tips, as well as with proper supplementation, you can build muscle, tone your physique, and see those results 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 Envato
References
Burd, N.; et al. (2012). “Muscle time under tension during resistance exercise stimulates differential muscle protein sub-fractional synthetic responses in men”. (source)
Hody, S.; et al. (2019). “Eccentric Muscle Contractions: Risks and Benefits”. (source)
Pasiakos, S.; et al. (2015). “The effects of protein supplements on muscle mass, strength, and aerobic and anaerobic power in healthy adults: a systematic review”. (source)
Martinez, N.; et al. (2016). “The effect of acute pre-workout supplementation on power and strength performance”. (source)
Blomstrand, E. (2006). “A role for branched-chain amino acids in reducing central fatigue”. (source)
Understanding The Benefits and Uses of This Multi-Functional Exercise
It’s not uncommon for exercises to go through popular phases. Right now, the nordic ham curl appears to be one of those exercises. From top athletes to the general population, the nordic hamstring curl (sometimes referred to as the Russian hamstring curl) is forming part of training sessions. So, why exactly has the nordic ham curl rapidly grown in popularity? This article will detail how to perform the Nordic ham curl, discuss the many reasons behind why it is such an effective resistance exercise and detail considerations to be made in regards to the exercise.
50Performing the Nordic Hamstring Curl
The Nordic hamstring curl is primarily an isolation exercise for the hamstrings. The exercise involves starting from a kneeling position and hinging forward from the knees. While the conventional method requires a partner to anchor you, it can still be performed without the need for a partner. This section will detail how to execute the Nordic hamstring curl safely and effectively.
Step One: Start by kneeling down and anchor the feet to the floor. This can be done using a partner or by using weight or appropriate apparatus. Anything that has an opening a few inches from the floor and allows you to lock the feet in position will suffice. Place something soft under your knees to protect them. Step Two: Prior to hinging forward, push the chest high, pull the shoulders back and squeeze the abs to ensure that the trunk of the body is held upright. Step Three: Begin to fall towards the floor by moving through the knees only. Resist gravity for as long as you can as you hinge forward.
Step Four: As you near the floor, place both hands on the floor and then perform an explosive push-up to propel the body back up to the starting position.
Nordic Hamstring Curl Benefits
The main reason that the nordic hamstring curl has become so popular in recent times is that there have been a vast number of studies looking at the benefits of the exercise. The results have indicated that there are many benefits associated with regularly performing the Nordic ham curl. The exercise has been linked to significantly improving the strength of the hamstrings. More specifically, the eccentric strength of the hamstring has been found to significantly increase (1). A concentric contraction occurs when muscle contracts and shortens whereas an eccentric contraction refers to the contraction that occurs when a muscle lengthens. During the nordic ham curl, the hamstring muscles slowly eccentrically contract under tension as the body drops towards the floor. This helps to explain why the hamstring eccentric strength is significantly improved through performing the Nordic ham curl. This increase in eccentric strength has a direct impact on reducing the risk of injury to the hamstring (2). Considering that hamstring is a commonly injured site, performing the Nordic ham curl regularly is particularly recommended for athletes and sportspeople. As well as enhancing strength, further studies have indicated that the exercise can also bring about substantial hamstring growth (3). Lastly, the nordic can serve as an excellent exercise for developing sprinting ability (4) and therefore, should be used by those who participate in sports that demand short, sharp bursts of sprinting.
Nordic Ham Curls vs Glute Ham Raises
Another common posterior strengthening exercise is the glute-ham raise and there are a number of similarities between the two exercises. Both are bodyweight-based resistance exercises that focus primarily on knee flexion. The difference between the two is the equipment used. While Nordics don’t typically require any equipment, the glute-ham raise uses something known as a GHD (glute-ham developer). This piece of equipment puts the body at a more optimal angle for working the hamstrings (and glutes) and increases the range of motion. While the glute-ham raise may be slightly more effective, it’s important to recognize that both exercises are effective for developing strength and can be used to fulfill different needs and demands.
Can Nordics Improve Deadlift Performance?
Many may conclude that strengthening the hamstrings through Nordic ham curls will increase deadlift performance as the hamstrings play a major role in the deadlift. However, this is not necessarily the case. While Nordics are associated with an array of benefits, it may not directly impact your ability to lift heavy. The reason for this is that the nordic ham curl primarily develops hamstring eccentric strength. When it comes to heavy deadlifts, it is concentric strength that is most important. Therefore, increasing the eccentric strength of the hamstrings will have little to no impact on the amount of weight that you can pull from the floor.
Another consideration to make is that the nordic ham curl is knee-dominant exercise whereas deadlifts are hip-dominant exercises. Consequently, Nordics are not really specific to strength sports as they train the hamstrings in a different manner. If you are looking to increasing hamstring in a sport-specific manner, hip-dominant exercises such as stiff-leg deadlifts, back extensions, and reverse hypers, are recommended. However, be aware that there are occasions where poor hamstring eccentric strength can hinder your performance. When performing nordic ham curls, if you find that you are struggling to resist gravity and drop immediately you may have poor hamstring eccentric strength.
If this is the case, it may be beneficial to perform Nordics to increase eccentric strength.
Final Word
If you are an athlete, the nordic ham curl can serve as a practical and effective exercise for enhancing eccentric strength, improving muscle size and reducing the risk of injury. However, it may not be the most optimal choice for improving powerlifting performance.
References:
1 – Ditroilo, Massimiliano; De Vito, Giuseppe; Delahunt, Eamonn (2013-10). “Kinematic and electromyographic analysis of the Nordic Hamstring Exercise”. Journal of Electromyography and Kinesiology: Official Journal of the International Society of Electrophysiological Kinesiology. 23 (5): 1111–1118. doi:10.1016/j.jelekin.2013.05.008. ISSN 1873-5711. PMID 23809430.
2 – Ribeiro-Alvares, João Breno; Marques, Vanessa B.; Vaz, Marco A.; Baroni, Bruno M. (2018-05). “Four Weeks of Nordic Hamstring Exercise Reduce Muscle Injury Risk Factors in Young Adults”. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research. 32 (5): 1254–1262. doi:10.1519/JSC.0000000000001975. ISSN 1533-4287. PMID 28459795.
3 – Seymore, Kayla D.; Domire, Zachary J.; DeVita, Paul; Rider, Patrick M.; Kulas, Anthony S. (2017-05). “The effect of Nordic hamstring strength training on muscle architecture, stiffness, and strength”. European Journal of Applied Physiology. 117 (5): 943–953. doi:10.1007/s00421-017-3583-3. ISSN 1439-6327. PMID 28280975.
4 – Ishøi, Lasse; Hölmich, Per; Aagaard, Per; Thorborg, Kristian; Bandholm, Thomas; Serner, Andreas (2018-07). “Effects of the Nordic Hamstring exercise on sprint capacity in male football players: a randomized controlled trial”. Journal of Sports Sciences. 36 (14): 1663–1672. doi:10.1080/02640414.2017.1409609. ISSN 1466-447X. PMID 29192837.
Ronnie Coleman was asked about his pick for the Olympia and named one of his favorites.
Ronnie Colemanknows a thing or two about winning on the Olympia stage so when he speaks on the event, you should listen. In a recent YouTube video, Coleman spoke on who he picks to win the 2023 Olympia.
During his career, Coleman totaled eight Olympia wins, which is tied for the most all-time with Lee Haney. He built a physique that was insanely muscular with great conditioning. The Men’s Open legend battled some other greats onstage, highlighted by his rivalry with Jay Cutler. Since retiring, Coleman has created a successful social media platform because of his combination of entertainment and interaction with fans.
Coleman’s latest video was a Q&A session where fans sent in some questions for the legend to answer. One asked Coleman flat out who his pick for the 2023 Olympia would be. He did not hesitate when picking his winner.
“I’m going to have to go with my main man Derek Lunsford to win the 2023 Mr. O. And there you have, from former Mr. O.”
This is not the first time that Coleman has spoken highly of Derek Lunsford.
Ronnie Coleman Names Derek Lunsford As One Of His Favorites
Derek Lunsford is a former 212 Olympia champ that was able to make the jump to Men’s Open. He received a special invitation to compete at the 2022 Olympiaand finished as the runner-up in his first competition with the big boys. Lunsford has caught the eye of many, including Ronnie Coleman, in a short amount of time.
“MY FAVORITE BODYBUILDER AT THE MOMENT. LET’S SEE, DEREK LUNSFORD PROBABLY THE NUMBER ONE FAVORITE.”
Lunsford did not need much time to build an elite physique in the Men’s Open division. After his runner-up finish in 2022, he is hoping to jump Hadi Choopan and win his first title in the biggest division. Of course, Lunsford is a former champion in Men’s 212.
The 2023 Arnold Classic saw some big-name competitors throw their hat into the ring. This includes Nick Walker, who finished third at the Olympia in December. Ultimately, Walker finished second to Samson Dauda, who has emerged as a contender this year. The Arnold Classic was a chance to see Walker and Dauda battle on stage. Despite losing in Columbus, Lunsford believes that Walker has what it takes to remain in the conversation for a title at the Olympia.
The state of the Men’s Open division is in good hands with this group of competitors. Ronnie Coleman believes that Derek Lunsford has what it takes to win his first Olympia title.
Clark Bartram shares all about his recent prostate cancer diagnosis and how he plans to stay motivated throughout treatment
In a recent episode of Generation Iron and Barbend’s The Mike O’Hearn Show, host Mike O’Hearn had the privilege of sitting down with fitness expert and inspirational figure Clark Bartram. In a candid conversation, Clark shared his recent diagnosis of prostate cancer and his determination to face this unexpected battle head-on. In this recap, we delve into Clark’s journey, his approach to treatment, and his newfound mission to raise awareness about prostate health.
Clark Bartram is no stranger to podcast. He’s been on numerous past episodes to help share his message of fitness, strength, and health for men past 50 years old. But now his message is taking a different turn after receiving life-changing news. He’s been diagnosed with stage-2 prostate cancer and he is now readying for a future battle against the disease.
However, Clark Bartram is remaining level-headed. He sees the upcoming battle as another fight like many throughout his life. He has always been a man who loves a challenge and loves competition. While this is a whole new kind of challenge, he is facing it the same way he’s learned to face any challenge – head-on with a level head and unlimited reserves of motivation.
Clark Bartram details the moment he received the diagnosis and goes into detail about the kinds of options men face when being diagnosed with prostate cancer. Let’s dive into this enlightening and inspiring conversation below.
Clark’s prostate cancer diagnosis came as a shock, considering his remarkable fitness and health. Upon first receiving concerns from his doctor after testing – he was told that he likely has prostate cancer unless he is an “anomaly.” Clark, perhaps somewhat in denial, initially believed he might be an exception to the statistics. His lifelong exceptional health and fitness made him, in his mind, qualify as an anomaly.
However, after after a biopsy and further testing, he was confronted with the reality that confirmed his fears, revealing the presence of a tumor.
Stage-2 Cancer
Clark’s diagnosis was classified as stage-2 cancer, an intermediate to aggressive form. The news was undoubtedly daunting, but Clark’s resilience and determination to overcome this challenge shine through as he shares his plan for treatment.
When faced with a challenge, Clark Bartram has always faced it head on. In fact, challenges often inspire him to become more motivated and more active. Due to this, while a cancer diagnosis is nothing to brush off, Clark’s mind triggered the same competitive response he always has had. At this stage in the diagnosis, he’s ready to fight. And facing challenges has always been a core of his lifestyle.
Holistic Approach
Rather than rushing into radiation therapy or surgery, Clark has chosen a holistic approach to his recovery. He believes in running a comprehensive diagnostic on his body to identify potential areas for improvement that could aid in reducing the cancer’s impact. This approach aligns with his desire to maintain a high quality of life, avoiding the potential complications that surgery can entail, such as loss of erections and urinary function.
Clark Bartram’s entire life has been dedicated to strength, health, and fitness. He isn’t willing to sacrifice that lifestyle due to the side effects caused by certain treatments.
Clark Bartram’s Choice About Androgen Deprivation Therapy
One treatment option presented to Clark was Androgen Deprivation Therapy, which would lower his testosterone levels significantly. Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is a treatment for prostate cancer that uses surgery or medicines to lower the levels of androgens made by the testicles. ADT is part of the standard of care for advanced metastatic prostate cancer.
ADT can cause mood changes, including:
Fatigue
Depression
Moodiness
Irritability
Tension
Anxiety
Loss of vigor
Clark Bartram points out that this kind of therapy is actually very similar to what transgender individuals use when transitioning from a man to a woman. It essentially strips testosterone from the male body. Typically, a transgender person will go through years of counseling in order to determine if this treatment is right for them. However, when faced with a prostate cancer diagnosis – a man may be expected to make a decision about ADT within a day.
Clark, whose life revolves around fitness, is hesitant to sacrifice his quality of life with low testosterone. He is willing to explore other options with slightly lower success rates to maintain his vitality.
Throughout the interview, Clark emphasizes the importance of not letting anxiety dictate one’s treatment decisions. He believes that maintaining a level head is crucial when facing such a life-altering diagnosis. Every individual’s circumstances and priorities are unique, and Clark encourages patients to make the choices that align with their personal values and goals.
“Don’t let your anxiety dictate your treatment.”
– Clark Bartram
A New Mission
In the face of adversity, Clark has discovered a new purpose. He has always been dedicated to helping men over 50 in the fitness and nutrition space, and now, he intends to extend his support to those battling prostate cancer. Clark’s determination to share his experiences and provide guidance to men going through a similar journey is truly inspiring.
Clark’s Nonprofit Organization: Bend Over And Check It Like A Man
Clark Bartram ends the discussion by announcing that he has founded a nonprofit organization called “Bend Over And Check It Like A Man” with the goal of raising half a million dollars to promote prostate exams and PSA level checks for men across America. The organization aims to provide access to blood test results, eliminating excuses for men to avoid vital screenings.
For more information about the nonprofit and how you can donate, visit the official website right here. (UPDATE!!!!)
Wrap Up
Clark Bartram’s journey through prostate cancer is a testament to the power of resilience, hope, and a holistic approach to health. His determination to maintain a high quality of life while battling this disease is an inspiration to many. As he embarks on this new mission to raise awareness and support other men facing prostate cancer, Clark’s story reminds us of the importance of proactive healthcare and the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
You can watch the full episode of The Mike O’Hearn Show above. Make sure to check back every Friday for new episodes only on the Generation Iron Fitness Network or wherever podcasts are downloaded.
Critics praise the “inner and outer strength” explored throughout DRIVEN: The Tony Pearson Story
DRIVEN: The Tony Pearson Story is now available on all major digital platforms including Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, Google Play, and more! And critics agree, this latest bodybuilding documentary is an artful and passionate look into not just outer strength – but the power of inner strength against great adversity. More than a film about bodybuilding, DRIVEN is a story that reveals a complex and powerful character study rarely seen in strength sports documentaries.
Alongside the release of DRIVEN: The Tony Pearson Story, the first round of reviews has also been published. Notably, critics have praised the artful cinematography as well as the deep character study revealed behind the muscle of Tony Pearson. Calling DRIVEN an exemplary exploration of not just physical triumphs – but mental triumphs as well.
Critics rave that DRIVEN is a film about inner and outer strength
Beyond chronicling Tony Pearson’s career, the film goes into delicate detail about the childhood abuse he faced while growing up in the south. It’s this origin story that is the core of the film – revealing that Tony’s outer strength is only the result of an unstoppable inner resilience. It was the only reason he was able to survive and escape his childhood circumstance. It’s a past that still lingers in mind to this very day with his abusive aunt manifesting as the mental specter of his challenge competing again at 62 years old during his documented comeback.
“Many viewers of DRIVEN will be shocked to learn of the childhood abuse and neglect endured by one of the world’s strongest men,” wrote Laura Wilhelm in her Close-Up Culture review. She continues, “Yet Pearson’s will to survive and thrive never ceased to move him forward towards ultimate triumph.”
Wilhelm goes on to emphasize that the exploration into Tony Pearson’s abusive past transfers to the audience – inspiring anyone who watches to take stock and push harder for their dreams:
“DRIVEN should inspire many to seize the day and finally fulfill their potential.”
– Laura Wilhelm via Close-Up Culture
A Surprisingly Evocative Exploration Into An 80s Bodybuilding Icon
While the film does go into detail about Tony Pearson’s career and the dedication and nuance required to succeed in the sport of bodybuilding – what shines most is the emotional element that is universal for any audience member.
“In documenting the life and career of Tony Pearson, DRIVEN: The Tony Pearson Story comes together as a moving and winning story of perseverance,” wrote Andrew Stover in his Film Threat review.
“The film showcases the inner and outer strengths of one of the most accomplished bodybuilders in the world.”
– Andrew Stover via Film Threat
A Story About Drive That Will Inspire All
Despite the potentially triggering and controversial subject matter of child abuse in the film – it is ultimately an uplifting documentary. The DRIVEN in the title speaks to the core of the entire experience. Despite abuse, challenges, and trauma – it is possible to remain driven. It’s possible to save yourself. It’s possible, even 50 years later, to face the trauma with each and every new challenge you face.
This much is true. DRIVEN: The Tony Pearson Story is still a bodybuilding story through and through. And like most bodybuilding stories – it is about perseverance and rising above all challenges in the end.
DRIVEN is a movie that will show you an emotional and moving persona of an iconic bodybuilder – perhaps in a way no bodybuilding fan could have expected. But it’s also a film that is steeped in the Golden Era California bodybuilding atmosphere. For both general audiences and fans who love bodybuilding history – this is a must watch documentary.
Want to tune into the 2023 Legion Sports Fest? Here is how to watch all of the action.
The 2023 Legion Sports Fest Prowill take place the weekend of Oct. 7-8 in Reno, Nevada. There will be a total of eight divisions in bodybuilding that will compete with hopes of qualifying for the 2023 Mr. Olympia.
The Olympia qualification system has changed this year. If an athlete did not finish in the top three in the previous year, or top five in Men’s Open, they will have to win a show to qualify. The points qualification system is no more. Also, former winners of an Olympia title have lifetime eligibility.
The show this weekend will have a new champion. Tonio Burton was victorious during the 2022 Legion Sports Fest Pro and will not return to defend his title. The means that the deep group of competitions in Men’s Open will have a chance to take home the title and crown a new champ.
Charles Griffenand John Jewett will take the stage with victories under their belts over the last year. Griffen’s cane during the 2023 California State Pro while Jewett was victorious earlier this year in Atlanta. Justin Rodriguez is a name to watch given his experience on this stage. He finished as the runner-up to Burton last year and will be looking to take home.
If you are interesting in tuning into the action, check out how to watch below, along with the full lineup for the Men’s Open division.
How To Watch 2023 Legion Sports Fest
For those who are unable to come out to Reno, NV for the competition, the 2023 Legion Sports Fest will also have an official PPV live stream. This includes two full days of live streaming – showcasing all bodybuilding events such as the IFBB Pro Masters, IFBB Pro Men’s Open, and NPC. The PPV also includes replay options after the event has aired.
The two-day package comes at a cost of $39.99. Each individual day live stream purchase costs $60.00.
Generation Iron has partnered with the Legion Sports Fest to give you an exclusive discount on the upcoming bodybuilding competition & event. Use code GENIRON10 at checkout to save 10% off the PPV live stream of the 2023 Legion Sports Fest.
The 2023 Legion Sports Fest runs for two full days across the weekend of October 7-8, 2023. Below is a breakdown of the timing for the events. All times listed are PST.
IFBB PRO MASTERS & NPC NATIONAL QUALIFIER – Saturday, October 7, 2023
9:00 AM: Pre-Judging
3:30 PM: Finals
IFBB PRO OPEN OLYMPIA QUALIFIER – Sunday, October 8, 2023
9:30 AM: Pre-Judging
4:30 PM: Red Carpet
5:30 PM: Finals
2023 Legion Sports Fest Pro: Men’s Open Lineup
Vitor Boff
Lewis Breed
Maxx Charles
Mokhamed El Emam
Stephen Frazier
Charles Griffen
Dorian Haywood
Martin Hernandez
Kenneth Jackson
John Jewett
William Martins
Chad Merchant
Darius Milton
Manolakas Nikitas-Sotrius
Jossue Plascencia
Denis Reinhold
Johan Rico Rivas
Logan Robson
Justin Rodriguez
Steve D. Thayer
Joel Thomas
Jan Turek
Eric Wood
Wrap Up
It is coming down to the wire now, the Olympia is right around the corner and some of the most muscular competitors are competing at the Legion Sports Festival this weekend to qualify for it. Competitors will be judged on muscle mass, conditioning, how much body fat they have, and posing.
Who do you think will take the crown this weekend?
