- FitnessVolt Newsletter
- Posts
- A Pro Put the Classic 5-Day Bro Split to the Test for a Month and This Happened
A Pro Put the Classic 5-Day Bro Split to the Test for a Month and This Happened
Whether you want to sculpt the perfect biceps, push your limits like Mike Sommerfeld, or find out why Lee Priest blames McDonald’s more than steroids, this issue has got you covered.
For decades, the bro split has been the go-to for bodybuilders, but does it still hold up? One lifter put it through a month-long trial, splitting workouts by muscle group across five days. The results? Gains were made, but not without some drawbacks, including muscle imbalances and fatigue. If you’re looking for a method that maximizes recovery while still building size, this breakdown might make you rethink your routine. [Read more.]
Three-time Mr. Olympia Frank Zane believes that finding the right training partner is as important as the workouts themselves. He shares how a reliable spotter can push you past your limits, provide accountability, and even prevent injuries. Zane’s advice is a must-read for lifters who want to optimize their training environment for better progress. [Find out why.]
The "Godfather of Bodybuilding" Charles Glass drops two major keys to muscle growth—his top protein choice and the #1 exercise for serious gains. Glass backs his picks with decades of training experience, making this a must-read for lifters who want to fine-tune their nutrition and workout strategy. His insights could help you unlock greater muscle growth while ensuring optimal recovery. [See his recommendations.]
Even in his fifties, four-time Mr. Olympia Jay Cutler continues to set the standard for conditioning. He shares his go-to fasted ab workout, proving that age is just a number when it comes to staying shredded. His method emphasizes consistency, volume, and proper engagement, ensuring that every rep counts. [Check out the routine.]
Bodybuilding icon Lee Priest doesn’t hold back when reflecting on his career, claiming fast food may have harmed him more than performance enhancers. He breaks down the realities of diet, drugs, and longevity in bodybuilding. Priest’s candid take offers a unique perspective on how lifestyle choices impact long-term health, both inside and outside of the gym. [Read his take.]
Jack Eagles is making waves in the Classic Physique division, and veteran coach Dennis James thinks he has serious title potential. With aesthetics and conditioning beyond his years, could Eagles be the next Chris Bumstead? James highlights Eagles' structure, posing, and work ethic as key factors that could propel him to the top of the division. [See why James is impressed.]
As he preps for the 2025 Arnold Classic, Mike Sommerfeld is proving that dedication trumps carbs. Training twice a day while staying lean, he shares how he’s managing energy and recovery. His approach highlights the importance of strategic nutrient timing, allowing him to maintain high-intensity workouts while minimizing fatigue. [Get the details.]
Strength training isn’t just for men, but outdated myths still hold many women back. This guide busts misconceptions and explains why lifting heavy can be the key to better health and longevity. From improving bone density to boosting metabolism, the benefits of resistance training for women go far beyond aesthetics. [Read more.]
Coach Dennis James is convinced the reigning 212 Olympia champ, Keone Pearson, has what it takes to win the coveted Sandow trophy. James also shares key advice for Andrew Jacked heading into the 2025 Arnold Classic. He breaks down Pearson’s strengths, including his razor-sharp conditioning and balanced proportions, which could make him a serious contender on the Men’s Open Mr. Olympia stage. [See his analysis.]
Four-time World’s Strongest Man Brian Shaw is taking grip strength to the next level with a custom arm wrestling tool. His goal? Build an arm so powerful it could dominate in any strength sport. Shaw’s experiment could revolutionize arm training, offering a new way to enhance grip, wrist, and forearm strength for athletes in various disciplines. [Check it out.]
Athlean-X founder Jeff Cavaliere shares a research-backed biceps routine designed to optimize muscle activation and hypertrophy. If you want bigger arms, this is your blueprint. His plan incorporates strategic rep ranges, tempo variations, and exercise sequencing to ensure continuous progress. [Try it out.]
Want to know your body fat percentage without expensive scans? This online calculator gives you an accurate estimate using simple measurements. Understanding your body fat levels can help tailor your training and nutrition for optimal performance and physique goals. [Find your number.]
Advanced Training Tip of the Day: Reverse-Grip Pressing
Want to hit your upper chest without another set of incline presses? Flip your grip. The reverse-grip bench press shifts the emphasis to your upper pecs and triceps while reducing shoulder strain—making it a secret weapon for size and strength. Studies show it can activate the upper chest even more than traditional incline work. The catch? It feels awkward at first, so start light, use a spotter, and keep your wrists locked in. If you’ve been chasing that full-chest look, it’s time to press in reverse.
The Strength Bulletin
A new study reveals that adding instability to pulldowns isn’t just a challenge—it’s a secret weapon for building serious pull-up strength while packing on equal muscle size. (Read the study.)
Reply