Author Archives: David Armstrong

Thinking Like a Pro: Smart Gym Moves, Part 2

How can you make your journey to bodybuilding glory as safe as possible? In our last blog post we talked about the importance of warming up, using a spotter when performing potentially risky exercise and the importance of wearing weight belts when your lower back will be receiving a high level of muscular strain. Today’s blog post will cover more ground in terms of establishing your personal safety while you’re working out at home or in the gym. I know for a fact that a large percentage […]

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Thinking Like a Pro: Smart Gym Moves, Part 1

Why are so many people attracted to bodybuilding? Since Arnold Schwarzenegger and countless other Mr. Olympias in the United States began dominating the modern bodybuilding scene, it’s not surprising that countless would-be bodybuilders are flocking the nation’s gyms in search for bodybuilding gold. The heavyweights of this generation like Ronnie Coleman and Jay Cutler have shown the world that being truly passionate about bodybuilding can transform it into a fulltime and very lucrative career. We’re talking about competitions with sizeable cash prizes, product endorsements, invitations to meets […]

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Breaking Down Muscle-Building Myths, Part 2

What’s the “real score” behind common beliefs about bodybuilding? In our previous blog post we debunked three major myths regarding bodybuilding. We learned that modern bodybuilders are not just aesthetically pleasing to look at but they’re also very strong individuals who can hold their own against more traditional strongmen who don’t train to achieve physical symmetry or the “x-form” of classical bodybuilders. We also learned that it’s impossible for muscle to turn into fat if you stopped exercising for the simple reason that fat and muscle are […]

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Breaking Down Muscle-Building Myths, Part 1

What are the pervasive myths of modern bodybuilding? Modern bodybuilding, just like any other sport, is mired by widespread misinformation or “myths” that can discourage a budding bodybuilder from pursuing his muscle-bound dreams. If you are a beginner or if you’re thinking of joining the ranks of amateur or professional bodybuilders, it’s important that you arm yourself against these myths so you can focus on what really matters – developing your physique, building strength and improving your overall performance. The First Set of Myths 1. “If You […]

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Genes & Bodybuilding, Part 2

How much influence does your DNA have over muscle growth? In our previous blog post, we explored the role of genetics in determining the performance of a bodybuilder. We learned that while genes can sometimes make it easier for a bodybuilder to make specific gains (e.g. bigger biceps even with less training than one’s peers), we also discovered that genes are not “muscle traps” and they don’t determine your path in bodybuilding. An interesting point was raised in our last post, too: bone size and muscle size. […]

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Genes & Bodybuilding, Part 1

How does your DNA affect your performance as a bodybuilder? Your own DNA is definitely a big factor when it comes to determining your natural performance and the results that you’re going to get with specific exercises. Of course, we can’t do anything about your own genes. What we can do is work with your genes so you can still maximize your results. Personally, I have seen budding bodybuilders who simply have to “smell” a few dumbbells to enhance the shape and mass of their biceps and […]

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Bodybuilding and Body Types

How do body types differ from each other? From an athletic point of view, ectomorphs, endomorphs and mesomorphs can be quite distinct from each other. Ectomorphs, or linear-leaning individuals, are often better suited for activities that require speed, stamina and generally, longer limbs. The majority of professional basketball players possess the ectomorph body type. These folks don’t gain weight easily if they have plenty of physical activity on a regular basis. Mesomorphs on the other hand, tend to develop advanced musculature than ectomorphs and endomorphs. Due to […]

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The Ideal Muscular Body, Part 1: Structure and Form

What are the ideal characteristics of a bodybuilder’s body? People go into bodybuilding for different reasons. Some engage in weightlifting exercises to lose weight and build muscle mass to improve their looks. Others engage in bodybuilding to strengthen weak muscles and joints, as in the case of older males who are suffering from a lifetime of sedentary living. And still some engage in the sport because they want to compete in amateur and/or professional bodybuilding competitions. If you’re interested in competing or if you’re simply interested in […]

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The Ideal Muscular Body, Part 2: Muscle Size and Distinction

What makes a bodybuilder worthy of being crowned a champion? In the first part of our series, we discussed the primary traits that competition judges are looking for in professional and amateur bodybuilders. We discovered the importance of developing the “X-form” as well as building enough mass around the joints to dwarf your joints to the point that they seem small in comparison to the muscle fibers attached to them. Today’s blog post covers the second set of ideal traits of competition-ready bodybuilders. The Second Set 1. […]

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The Ideal Muscular Body, Part 3: Power and Ability

What separates truly powerful bodybuilders from average ones? In the first two parts of our current series, we have explored the minutest details of the ideal physical form of a competing bodybuilder. We have learned that apart from the general size of a bodybuilder, judges are often looking for detailed musculature and clear distinctions among the different muscle groups. The big question now is how can you achieve the ideal musculature of a professional bodybuilder? What traits must you possess or develop in order to pound your […]

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