Avoid These 5 Pre-Workout Mistakes That Could Ruin Your Gains

From Chris Bumstead mapping out a super supplement-free competitive season to Lauralie Chapados sharing her six-meal prep secrets, today's edition is stacked.

Even the most seasoned gym-goers can sabotage their workouts before they even lift a weight. From neglecting hydration to overloading on caffeine, these common errors can leave you feeling sluggish or even lead to injury. An expert breaks down five of the most frequent pre-workout missteps and offers practical advice on how to sidestep them for peak performance. Don’t let bad habits derail your fitness progress—fix these mistakes and train smarter. [Fix your pre-workout routine here.]

Four-time Men’s Physique Olympia champ Jeremy Buendia recently took a big step in addressing his past by apologizing to former coach Hany Rambod. Buendia revealed how rage and unresolved issues strained their working relationship during a pivotal point in his career. His heartfelt apology sheds light on the challenges athletes and coaches face in high-pressure environments. This moment of accountability could inspire others in the fitness world to mend fractured connections. [Read Buendia’s apology here.]

Six-time Classic Physique Olympia champion Chris Bumstead is mapping out an ambitious plan for 2025. In a candid update, he shared his focus on refining his physique while navigating the challenges of lifting without performance-enhancing substances. Bumstead’s honesty about these hurdles provides insight into the mental and physical toll of elite bodybuilding. [Catch Bumstead’s 2025 goals here.]

Bodybuilding commentator Terrick El Guindy has high hopes for Nick Walker’s path to the 2025 Mr. Olympia. Confident in Walker’s ability to silence critics, El Guindy boldly predicts a qualification-worthy performance. This statement comes as Walker prepares to prove doubters wrong, aiming to solidify his place among the sport’s elite. With stakes this high, the 2025 season promises intense competition and plenty of drama. [See why El Guindy backs Walker here.]

Ten weeks out from the 2025 Arnold Classic, Derek Lunsford is leaving nothing on the gym floor. Under the guidance of coach Chris Cormier, Lunsford endured a brutal leg session designed to push his limits. His relentless drive and focus showcase the kind of preparation needed for a major competition. As the Arnold Classic inches closer, all eyes are on Lunsford to deliver a standout performance. [Watch Lunsford’s punishing workout here.]

The reigning Arnold Classic and Olympia Bikini champ Lauralie Chapados is dialing in her nutrition as she preps for the 2025 Arnold Classic. Her six-meal full day of eating offers a glimpse into the discipline and precision required to stay stage-ready. From balanced macros to strategic meal timing, Chapados breaks down the strategies fueling her success. If you’re curious about the dietary habits of elite athletes, this is a must-read. [Check out Chapados’ meal plan here.]

Thinking about diving into bodybuilding? A seasoned coach weighs the pros and cons, helping you decide if the sport aligns with your goals and lifestyle. From the immense discipline required to the sense of community it fosters, there’s a lot to consider. Whether you’re ready to commit or still on the fence, this breakdown will help clarify if bodybuilding is your next big move. [Find out if bodybuilding is for you here.]

If your calf workouts have hit a plateau, it’s time to shake things up. An expert highlights five underrated exercises that can reignite your progress and add serious size to your lower legs. With step-by-step guidance and pro tips, these moves are guaranteed to challenge your muscles in new ways. Don’t settle for lackluster calves—upgrade your routine with these game-changers. [Discover new calf exercises here.]

Forget restrictive diets—losing fat can be easier than you think. By focusing on small, sustainable habits like mindful eating and better sleep, this article outlines how to shed pounds effortlessly. These science-backed tips emphasize long-term health rather than quick fixes. Ready to ditch dieting for good? [Learn how to lose fat the easy way here.]

Weight loss doesn’t have to mean boring meals. This 1,700-calorie meal plan combines nutrition and flavor to help you stay on track without feeling deprived. Packed with balanced recipes, it’s perfect for anyone looking to shed pounds while still enjoying their food. Say goodbye to bland diets and hello to sustainable eating. [Try the meal plan here.]

Curious about your BMI? This tool simplifies the process, giving you a quick snapshot of your body’s composition and health status. Whether you’re tracking progress or setting goals, understanding your BMI can help guide your fitness journey. Accurate, user-friendly, and insightful—this calculator is a must-have resource. [Calculate your BMI here.]

William Bonac shares a physique update 8 weeks out of the 2025 Arnold Classic 📹💪

Dinner Recipe of the Day: Chicken Teriyaki Rice and Broccoli

Craving a muscle-friendly meal? Sauté bite-sized chicken in teriyaki sauce until it glistens with flavor. Steam broccoli to a tender-crisp perfection. Serve both over a bed of fluffy brown rice and garnish with chopped green onions. Voilà—a balanced, protein-packed dish ready in under 10 minutes.

The Strength Bulletin

  • A new study challenges the hype around high-protein diets, revealing their thermic advantage might be overrated. [Dive into the research here.]

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