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- Sam Sulek Earns Pro Card! Plus, 2025 Arnold Classic Men’s Open Preview!
Sam Sulek Earns Pro Card! Plus, 2025 Arnold Classic Men’s Open Preview!
Samson Dauda bares his soul (and meal plan) as he battles dysmorphia to sculpt a 300-pound masterpiece for the 2025 Arnold Classic and coach Charles Glass shares the most effective squat tips.
Sam Sulek has officially earned his IFBB Pro Card after a dominant performance at the 2025 Arnold Amateur. His rapid rise in bodybuilding continues to turn heads, proving he’s a serious contender for future pro competitions. [Read more about Sam Sulek’s IFBB Pro Card victory.]
The 2025 Arnold Classic Men’s Open is shaping up to be a clash of titans, with bodybuilding’s heaviest hitters vying for the crown in Columbus, Ohio (Mar 27 - Feb 1). With the defending champ Hadi Choopan pulling out of the show, Samson Dauda and Derek Lunsford are staking their claim. With a prize pool that could tempt even the most stoic gym rat, this lineup promises a showdown worth watching. [Who’s your pick for the crown?]
The Men’s Physique division at the 2025 Arnold Classic is bringing serious firepower, with top contenders battling for one of the biggest titles of the year. Reigning champ Diogo Montenegro faces stiff competition from Erin Banks, who’s gunning for redemption, and Ali Bilal, whose symmetry could steal the show. Judges will have their hands full deciding who’s got the ultimate V-taper in this aesthetic-heavy slugfest. [See who’s leading the charge.]
Bodybuilding legend Kai Greene has fans buzzing after touching down at Pittsburgh International Airport, teasing a potential return to the stage. The 49-year-old icon, absent from competition since 2016, dropped cryptic hints about a comeback, sending nostalgia into overdrive for those who miss his larger-than-life poses. No official word yet on which show he’s eyeing, but his arrival has sparked hope for a resurgence of his philosophical flair and freaky mass. [He’s back… Maybe]
The reigning Mr. Olympia Samson Dauda recently shared a raw look at his struggle with body dysmorphia, revealing how it fuels his relentless drive. The British bodybuilder detailed his meticulous dieting strategy, balancing extreme discipline with mental resilience to sculpt his 300-pound frame. He’s aiming to peak in Columbus, where he’ll face off against giants like Hadi Choopan and Derek Lunsford. [Get inside the mind of a champion.]
Seven-time Mr. Olympia Phil Heath recently weighed in on the 2025 Arnold Classic, offering sharp insights on the Men’s Open field. He’s got advice for William Bonac—stay consistent—and predicts Shaun Clarida’s out for “pure vengeance” after a near-miss last year. Heath’s take? The competition’s a pressure cooker, and only the mentally toughest will shine. [Phil-osophy 101.]
Want quads that could crush a car? This 30-minute HIIT workout targets quads, hamstrings, and calves with brutal efficiency, perfect for anyone short on time but big on gains. Think squats, lunges, and calf raises dialed up to leave you waddling out of the gym. Rest days might become your new best friend after this leg-day gauntlet. [Thighs don’t lie.]
Aussie bodybuilding vet Lee Priest stirred the pot by declaring that 1970s icon Serge Nubret could sweep the modern Classic Physique division if he were around today. Priest compares Nubret’s timeless physique to Chris Bumstead’s, arguing his elegance and mass would still turn heads. Nubret, who passed in 2011, left a legacy of symmetry that’s tough to match. This take’s got fans debating whether vintage vibes could outclass today’s tech-enhanced titans. [Retro rules.]
Dr. Mike Israetel didn’t hold back from critiquing Urs Kalecinski’s lifting technique, spotlighting flaws that could stall the Classic Physique star’s progress. From sloppy execution to questionable rep ranges, Israetel’s breakdown is a masterclass in what not to do—unless you enjoy plateauing. He tossed in tips to refine form and boost gains, giving Urs a roadmap to redemption. [Science vs. Swole]
Alan Ritchson’s hulking Jack Reacher physique didn’t come from wishing on a dumbbell—it’s the result of a grueling workout and diet plan now laid bare. Think heavy compounds, endless protein, and enough grit to make a drill sergeant blush. This guide dishes out the sets, reps, and meals to get you action-star-ready, whether you’re chasing goons or just the mirror’s approval. Time to ditch the popcorn and grab the barbell. [Reacher-approved rips.]
Charles Glass, the “Godfather of Bodybuilding,” dropped squat wisdom that’s pure gold for anyone aiming to max out leg gains. He breaks down stance, depth, and tempo to fire up every muscle fiber without kissing the gym floor goodbye. Decades of coaching champs back up his tips for activation and injury-proof form. Your quads will thank him, even if your knees send a passive-aggressive text later. [Squat like a Sensei.]
One brave soul committed to 100 calf raises every night for two weeks, and the results are in: bigger, stronger calves that finally fill out skinny jeans. The experiment tracked progress from puny to proud, with soreness as the only admission fee. Consistency paid off, proving small moves can stack up to big changes. No gym required—just a stubborn streak and a spare 15 minutes. [Calf guy rises.]
Classic Physique standout Terrence Ruffin peeled back the curtain on his dieting game plan for the 2025 Pittsburgh Pro, where he’s set to flex against the best. He’s juggling macros like a circus pro, leaning into lean proteins and precision timing to peak on stage. Ruffin’s approach blends science with sacrifice, all to carve out that winning edge. Pittsburgh’s about to get a masterclass in shred. [Meal Prep, Muscle Pop.]
Fitness Volt’s new Optimal Rest Time Calculator takes the guesswork out of how long to chill between sets, whether you’re chasing strength or size. Plug in your goals and lifts, and it spits out a rest range tailored to keep you progressing without napping on the bench. It’s backed by science, not bro-lore, for max efficiency. Your gym timer just got a PhD. [Rest easy, lift hard.]
Advanced Recovery Tip of the Day: Eat Gelatin Like a Jiggly Cheat Code
Struggling to bounce back after leg day left you waddling like a penguin? Here’s your advanced recovery tip of the day: scarf down some gelatin, nature’s jiggly cheat code. Packed with collagen, this wobbly wonder supports joint health and speeds muscle repair—studies suggest its amino acids can cut recovery time while keeping tendons happy. Mix it into a smoothie or go full grandma with a Jell-O shot (sugar-free, please). It’s not just a dessert; it’s a sneaky way to tell soreness, “Not today, pal.” Wiggle your way to resilience!
The Strength Bulletin
Phil Heath announces he’ll trade posing trunks for a mic, joining the commentary team for the 2025 Arnold Classic—expect GOAT-level insights. [Read more.]
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