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Top 11 Tips for Training for IFBB

Published

4 years ago

November 26, 2020

Paul

Bodybuilding training can be overwhelming for two kinds of bodybuilders; a beginner and one who is training for a significant event like IFBB but doesn’t know where to start. For beginners, IFBB is the International Federation of Bodybuilding and Fitness. IFBB headquarters are in Las Rozas, Madrid. Founded in 1946, IFBB oversees and governs bodybuilding and fitness events. Thousands of IFBB competitions are held annually at the local, national, regional, and international levels.

Major IFBB disciplines include:

1. IFBB Men’s World Bodybuilding Championships.
2. IFBB Men’s World Physiques Championships.
3. IFBB Men’s World Classic Bodybuilding Championships.
4. IFBB World Fitness Championship.
5. The Arnold Classic.

Every beginner bodybuilder’s dream is to participate and win a title in one of the significant IFBB competitions. However, this remains just a pipe dream for many because of the nature of their training. Most bodybuilders don’t realize that you don’t just become a bodybuilding pro overnight. It doesn’t matter how much steroids one takes. Without proper training, one will remain to be a mediocre bodybuilder. We will share with you helpful tips that will see you become a world-class bodybuilder. Follow them religiously, and you will enjoy every bit of your bodybuilding career.

Make a Training Schedule and Stick to It

A bodybuilder without a solid plan is no bodybuilder. A plan is what will take you places, and a good plan is. Bodybuilding is all about appearance. There is no definite skill or strategy. All you need is muscle and strength. Nobody will take you seriously if you can’t wing it, including your opponent. It all starts with a carefully crafted training plan. A good training program is one thing; sticking to it is another. Many bodybuilders tend to become lazy within a few weeks of training. That is when they lose it. Bodybuilding is about consistency and keeping a clear focus. Why is that so? Because the winning margin for an IFBB competition is tiny. That means you have to pay attention to every detail of training. One second of distraction is enough to push you several places back.

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Take your body into consideration while designing a training plan. Most importantly, make sure the plan challenges you and stretches your limits. Your attention should be on specific points, such as joints that promote growth. Gradually lift heavier weights with low preps. Each day of training should come with a new exercise. Your schedule doesn’t have to be rigid. Remember that it gets tough along the way, but the tough gets going.

Prioritize Free Weights

Technology and new inventions are advancements we should embrace, but not entirely regarding weight. Beginners and pros alike should train with barbells and dumbbells. It is the only sure way to build natural muscle mass from scratch. Everything else becomes easier when you start with the more complicated stuff.

Watch your Diet. It is okay to be lean and muscular. It is wrong to assume that loss of weight comes with the loss of strength. You should be concerned about your muscle mass relative to your body weight. In the lead-up to an IFBB competition, you are advised to increase your protein intake. Some bodybuilders make the mistake of eliminating calories from their diet when they are about to compete. That is very wrong from many angles. Your muscles need a stable supply of energy to function correctly. Most of that energy comes from burning calories. Instead of stopping their intake entirely, only take a certain amount of calories that you are sure will supply you with the energy you need to sustain your regular workouts.

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Have Resting Days

You are not a robot, so don’t train every day. A day or two is enough to recover lost energy and allow your body to self-repair. There is the risk of overworking yourself to the extent of compromising your fitness in the face of an IFBB competition. If your training schedule is being prepared by someone else, let them know that you need some days off. An experienced fitness coach will know this without you having to tell them.

Develop a Winning Strategy

You don’t have to train hard to win. All you need is to train smart, according to your stamina. If anything, training hard will only make you fatigued. Sticking to your training schedule becomes difficult if you get fatigued often. Vary rest periods, exercises, sets, and workouts. Ensure every exercise achieves a set muscle goal. If the goal is not achieved, repeat that particular exercise until you meet it. At the same time, set realistic goals that can be met without difficulty and should be progressive. Most of it all, focus. It is the one thing that determines whether you are going to meet your goal or not. If you feel like you are losing focus somehow or some goals are not being met, rethink the strategy.

Have a Trainer

It makes sense that someone is there to push your limits and ensure you are well-prepared for an IFBB competition. There is usually an irresistible urge fueled by the ego that pushes one to head to training without a trainer. The truth of the matter is; every bodybuilder starts somewhere. And there is always someone better and more experienced than you. The more you let them guide you, the less the likelihood of you making mistakes, and the firmer your foundation in bodybuilding becomes.

There are professional bodybuilding trainers who know exactly what it takes to compete favorably in an IFBB event. It is highly recommended that you find yourself such a trainer to ensure you’re perfect for before the competition. There is great danger in having absolute faith in your abilities. You need someone to give insight into areas that you are not good in because, after all, no human is perfect.

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Transition Easy

Find a position that allows you to change from one exercise to another without strain. It is highly recommended that you combine squats with supersets. Front squats can also be combined with hacks and vice versa. Focus on a sustained pump by paring squats with leg presses. Alternatively, superset various muscle groups. Pump and burn hamstrings or quads by super-setting two hamstrings and super-setting two quads, respectively. Always make sure to transition between two antagonistic exercises for efficient transitioning.

Know the Technical Aspects

Before doing a particular exercise, ensure you know how it works. It is logical that you have an idea of what to expect during and after the exercise. Understanding the science of every exercise enables you to train smart rather than hard. Knowing the technical aspects of bodybuilding will also ensure you use less effort to gain more strength and muscle.

Invest in Equipment

If you are in a position to train at home, ensure you have every piece of equipment you need for your workouts. Acquiring the right resources is the first step toward winning a title. Ensure your home gym is well-equipped with every exercise you need.

Most people prefer using a public gym, where they can get enough motivation from other trainers. Select the best gym you can find in terms of equipment and exercises. Some gyms have been designed to train for major IFBB events and are equipped with modern, heavy equipment. Most importantly, you should find the right gym for competition-level powerlifting. Also, try to do quality exercises even when looking for a gym with quality gear.

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Find a Partner

Having a lifting partner will make lifting weights easier psychologically. Besides, there are some things you might not do on your own. A lifting partner can be anybody, it doesn’t have to be a fellow bodybuilder, but it is recommended that they be one. A lifting partner does not only motivate you but also ensures you follow the training routine religiously. Training for a bodybuilding competition becomes a responsibility when someone else is in the picture. You wouldn’t want to fail your partner by missing a session or attending it late. It also means there are joint goals to be met by the two of you. Additionally, a bodybuilding partner points out your flaws and advises you accordingly. Sometimes lifting partners are considered coaches or trainers of some sort.

Making it Simple and Fun

You don’t have to strain during your training sessions. You can choose to incorporate music into your workout, which many gyms provide, by the way. Alternatively, you can create a rhythm that will distract your mind from the exercise. If you’re doing a count-down, make it rhythmical with your breathing. Anything that takes your mind away from the intensity of the exercise.

What More You Need to Prepare for Any IFBB Competition Adequately

Spending all your time working out at the gym is not all that s required to prepare for an IFBB event adequately. Many other supporting factors are equally as important.

What is your Motivation?

You need to set your goals and work towards them. What motivates you to win an IFBB title? Is it for you or someone else? Whichever thing motivates you must be what you see and not anything else.

Participate in Minor Contests

Bodybuilding is one of the few sports where participants have limited time to measure up themselves against the opponent. Most of the action is seen during the actual event. However, a bodybuilder can flex their muscle during contests at various levels. That includes local, regional, and sometimes national contests. Contests are the perfect platforms for a bodybuilder to learn how they are faring against other bodybuilders. You will know where strengths or weaknesses lie after every contest. Most importantly, you will know where to improve or what to modify in terms of exercises, sets, and even diet.

Earn Yourself an IFBB Pro Card

Although not a form of training, an IFBB pro card is closely tied to the nature of your training. If you have read the title right, you realize that a pro card is earned, and it is one of the requirements. The card costs some $200 annually, but is not just given to anybody. You have to show your commitment to the bodybuilding field. A bodybuilder must turn pro in a famous division to get the card. Earning yourself a pro card will open many doors for you as a bodybuilder. You get to meet and compete with favorites in virtually every major division, which means a lot for your career.

Know the Rules

Just because you don’t train with any rules doesn’t mean they don’t exist. Bodybuilding, like any other sport, has a set of rules and regulations which bodybuilders must abide by, or they will be barred from competing. The earlier you familiarize yourself with bodybuilding rules, the better. That includes rules on check-ins, posing suits, competitors' health, backstage, posing music, and onstage rules. Getting disqualified in an IFBB competition is easy because of a minor thing in bodybuilding. That is why you need to practice the rules before the actual event.

Final Thoughts

Competitions are won during training, especially where bodybuilding is involved. The more time one spends training, the lesser effort one’ll put into the actual competition. Every IFBB competition has the best participants, and only the best of the best go home with titles. If you were to investigate what made the difference between winners and losers, you would realize that it has everything to do with training. As mentioned in this article’s introduction, a significant improvement in bodybuilding is not seen overnight.

It takes hours and days of hard work and a lot of sacrifice. The best part about it is that no effort goes unrewarded, at least not in bodybuilding. Besides, bodybuilding is a unique sport where participants have the freedom to enhance their looks and performance using a technique of their choice. The secret is training smart and topping up what is left with anabolic steroids.

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Counteracting Anabolic Resistance with Adaptogens in Aging Men

Published

1 week ago

January 28, 2025

Sane

As people age, maintaining muscle mass and strength becomes increasingly challenging due to a natural condition called anabolic resistance. This phenomenon, where muscles become less responsive to exercise and protein intake, can start as early as age 40. However, adaptogens—herbs that help the body adapt to stress—are emerging as promising allies in combating this resistance and promoting muscle health.

Understanding Anabolic Resistance Symptoms

Aging athletes may experience several symptoms of anabolic resistance, including:

Decreased Muscle Protein Synthesis

Muscles become less responsive to protein, affecting growth and recovery.

Increased Cortisol Levels

Chronic stress raises cortisol levels, which can lead to muscle breakdown.

Hormonal Decline

Natural decreases in testosterone and growth hormone reduce muscle-building capacity.

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Top Adaptogens for Muscle Health

Some of the most commonly used adaptogens include Ashwagandha, Rhodiola Rosea, and Panax Ginseng. Their key benefits are:

Ashwagandha

- Supports testosterone levels.
- Reduces cortisol, improving recovery and muscle maintenance.
- Enhances endurance for sustained workouts.

Rhodiola Rosea

- Lowers fatigue and increases stamina.
- Reduces stress, supporting muscle retention.

Panax Ginseng

- Boosts energy levels for longer, more effective workouts.
- Supports immune function, aiding in recovery.

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How Adaptogens Support Muscle Tissue and Overall Health

Adaptogens help counteract anabolic resistance by:

Regulating Hormones

Ashwagandha may optimize testosterone and growth hormone levels, essential for muscle maintenance.

Lowering Cortisol Levels

High cortisol can exacerbate anabolic resistance. Adaptogens like Rhodiola and Ashwagandha help reduce cortisol, fostering a more anabolic environment.

Enhancing Energy and Endurance

Rhodiola and Ginseng boost energy levels, helping athletes maintain workout intensity, crucial for combating anabolic resistance.

Boosting Recovery and Reducing Fatigue

Ashwagandha aids muscle recovery, and Rhodiola reduces fatigue, both vital for consistent training intensity.

Tips for Integrating Adaptogens into Your Routine

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To incorporate adaptogens into your daily life, consider these tips:

Start Small

Begin with a lower dose to gauge your body's response.

Cycle Use

Use adaptogens for 6-8 weeks, then take a short break to reset and maintain their effectiveness.

Choose Quality Supplements

Opt for third-party tested and certified supplements to ensure potency and purity.

More Options to Counteract Anabolic Resistance in Older Men

Related Article: Peptides Vs Steroids - A Complete Guide

When it comes to counteracting anabolic resistance in older men, it's important to consider both safety and efficacy. Here are some options that might be beneficial:

Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators (SARMs): These compounds are designed to mimic the effects of anabolic steroids without the severe side effects. They can help increase muscle mass and strength.

Testosterone Boosters: Supplements like Adaptophen contain natural ingredients such as Tongkat Ali, Siberian Rhodiola Rosea, and Elk Antler Velvet, which are promoted to boost testosterone levels, improve muscle growth, and aid recovery.

Human Growth Hormone (HGH): HGH supplements can help increase muscle mass and strength, but they should be used under medical supervision due to potential side effects.

Ecdysterone: This compound is found in certain plants and has been shown to have anabolic effects similar to anabolic steroids but with fewer side effects.

Turkesterone: Another natural compound that has shown promise in increasing muscle mass and strength without the harsh side effects of anabolic steroids.

It's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications. They can help you determine the best course of action based on your individual needs and health status.

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Recommended Exercises to Restore Muscle In Older Men

Restoring muscle loss in older men can be effectively achieved through a combination of resistance training and functional exercises. Here are some of the most effective exercises:

Dumbbell Squats: These help build lower body strength and muscle mass. Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, holding dumbbells at your sides, and squat down while keeping your chest up.

Incline Dumbbell Bench Press: This exercise targets the upper chest and shoulders. Lie on an incline bench, holding dumbbells, and press them upwards until your arms are fully extended.

Chest-Supported Dumbbell Rows: Great for strengthening the back muscles. Adjust the bench to an incline, chest-supported, and pull the dumbbells towards your torso while keeping your back straight.

Planks: Excellent for core strength and stability. Hold a forearm plank position, keeping your body in a straight line from head to heels.

Bird Dogs: This exercise improves core strength and balance. Start in a tabletop position, extend one arm and the opposite leg, and hold for a few seconds before switching sides.

Bodyweight Exercises: Exercises like push-ups, lunges, and step-ups are also beneficial for maintaining muscle mass and overall strength.

Incorporating these exercises into a regular workout routine can help combat muscle loss and improve overall fitness. Remember to start slowly and gradually increase the intensity to avoid injury.

Conclusion

While adaptogens are not a substitute for a balanced diet or structured training, they offer a natural way for aging athletes to manage anabolic resistance. By supporting hormonal balance, reducing stress, enhancing energy, and aiding in recovery and fatigue, adaptogens like Ashwagandha, Rhodiola Rosea, and Panax Ginseng can help athletes, especially those over 40, stay strong and healthy as they age.

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Tips on How to Store Peptides and HGH

Published

4 weeks ago

January 9, 2025

Sane

When peptides are mixed with bacteriostatic water (BAC water), their longevity is highly influenced by how they are stored. Correct storage is crucial, as improper conditions can compromise their quality and reduce their efficacy.

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Key Storage Guidelines

Room Temperature: Peptides tend to degrade rapidly at room temperature, lasting only a few hours to a day. It's best to use them immediately in this condition.

Refrigeration (2-8°C): When stored in a refrigerator, peptides mixed with BAC water can remain stable for 2-4 weeks. However, some peptides may degrade more quickly than others, so limiting storage to around two weeks is safest.

Freezing (-20°C or lower): For prolonged storage, freezing is the best option, maintaining peptide stability for several months. It is important to avoid multiple cycles of thawing and refreezing, as this can degrade the peptides.

It's important to note that storage guidelines can differ depending on the specific peptide, so always check for the particular recommendations to ensure maximum longevity and effectiveness.

NOTE: Peptides reconstituted with Sterile Water only remain potent for 2-3 days, even under ideal storage conditions. This is because sterile water lacks the antibacterial properties of BAC water, leading to faster bacterial growth and peptide degradation.

Finding Containers to Store Peptides and HGH

You can find containers for storing peptides and HGH at various online retailers and specialty stores. Here are a few options:

Edge Peptides: They offer a range of storage containers suitable for peptides, including glass and high-quality plastic vials.

Peptide Sciences: This site provides information on peptide storage and offers appropriate containers.

Muscle and Brawn: They have guidelines on peptide storage and sell containers designed for this purpose.

Make sure to choose containers that are chemically inert, such as glass or high-quality plastic, to avoid any reactions with the peptides. Additionally, ensure the containers are tightly sealed to prevent contamination and degradation.

What Would Be the Best Peptides and HGH for Beginners?

For beginner bodybuilders and athletes, it's important to start with safe and effective options. Here are some of the best peptides and human growth hormone (HGH) supplements:

Peptides for Muscle Growth

Ipamorelin: Stimulates growth hormone production, aiding muscle growth and fat loss.

CJC-1295: Enhances growth hormone release, promoting muscle growth and improving sleep quality.

Hexarelin: Stimulates growth hormone release, aiding muscle gain and cardiovascular health.

Sermorelin: Increases growth hormone production, beneficial for muscle growth.

GHRP-6: Stimulates growth hormone release, increasing energy levels and aiding muscle growth.

HGH Supplements

CrazyBulk HGH-X2: Boosts HGH production, increases energy levels, and helps build muscle mass.

HyperGH 14x: Promotes muscle growth and improves performance.

GenF20 Plus: Maintains optimal HGH levels, aiding in muscle growth and anti-aging.

PGH-1000: Enhances strength and stamina.

Sytropin: Supports physical fitness, anti-aging, and andropause.

Summary

Storing peptides and human growth hormone (HGH) properly is crucial for maintaining their effectiveness and ensuring safety. Peptides should ideally be stored in a refrigerator at 2-8°C for up to 2-4 weeks when mixed with bacteriostatic water, while freezing them at -20°C or lower extends their stability for several months, but avoid thawing and refreezing. When reconstituting peptides, use bacteriostatic water instead of sterile water to maintain potency for a longer duration (2-4 weeks versus 2-3 days). Use chemically inert containers, like glass or high-quality plastic vials, and ensure they are tightly sealed. Maintain sterility during reconstitution and storage to prevent bacterial contamination.

Use reconstituted peptides as soon as possible to avoid degradation in solution. Popular peptides for muscle growth include Ipamorelin, CJC-1295, Hexarelin, Sermorelin, and GHRP-6, while CrazyBulk HGH-X2 is a common supplement to boost HGH production. Always check the specific storage recommendations for each peptide, as they can vary.

Remember, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen to ensure it's safe and appropriate for your individual needs.

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Ostarine For Beginners: The Ultimate Guide

Published

1 month ago

December 29, 2024

Sane

Ostarine, also referred to as MK-2866 or Enobosarm, is among the most extensively used and researched Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators (SARMs). Initially developed to combat muscle-wasting diseases, it has gained immense popularity among athletes and bodybuilders for its muscle-preserving and performance-enhancing benefits.

How Does It Work?

Ostarine selectively binds to androgen receptors in muscle and bone tissues, promoting protein synthesis and osteogenesis. Unlike anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS), which interact with androgen receptors throughout the body, Ostarine specifically targets certain tissues, reducing the risk of unwanted side effects such as hair loss, high estrogen levels, prostate enlargement, or virilization in women.

Practical Benefits of Ostarine

Muscle Preservation

Ostarine is well-known for its ability to maintain lean muscle mass, especially during calorie deficits. Studies have shown that it prevents muscle wasting while sustaining strength and endurance, making it ideal for cutting cycles (Dalton et al., 2011).

Muscle Growth

Although its muscle-building capacity is milder compared to stronger SARMs or AAS, Ostarine effectively promotes gradual, high-quality muscle gains without excessive water retention.

Improved Recovery

Athletes have reported enhanced recovery times with Ostarine. By reducing muscle breakdown and increasing nitrogen retention, it allows users to train more frequently and intensively.

Bone Health

Ostarine positively impacts bone density. Research indicates its ability to increase bone mineralization, potentially making it a therapeutic agent for osteoporosis (Narayanan et al., 2008). For athletes, this translates to a reduced injury risk and stronger skeletal support during heavy training.

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Potential Side Effects

Mild Testosterone Suppression

Ostarine can suppress natural testosterone production, particularly at higher doses. Post Cycle Therapy (PCT) is recommended after cycles to restore hormonal balance.

Dyslipidemia

Like most SARMs, Ostarine can affect lipid profiles, potentially lowering HDL (good cholesterol) and increasing LDL (bad cholesterol).

Elevated Liver Enzymes

Some users report mild elevations in liver enzymes during use, though these usually return to normal after discontinuation.

Long-Term Effects

Unknown As a relatively new compound, the long-term effects of Ostarine on health are not fully understood.

How to Use Ostarine Correctly

Dosage and Cycle Recommendations

Ostarine is typically dosed at 10–30 mg per day, depending on the user’s goals and experience level:

For Cutting: 10–20 mg per day to preserve muscle and aid fat loss.

For Bulking: 20–30 mg per day to promote lean muscle gains.

Cycles generally last 6–8 weeks. Longer cycles or higher doses may increase the risk of side effects, including testosterone suppression. With a half-life of approximately 24 hours, Ostarine allows for convenient once-daily dosing.

Post Cycle Therapy (PCT)

We highly recommend PCT following Ostarine cycles, especially for doses exceeding 20 mg per day, to restore natural testosterone levels.

Ostarine Alternatives

For beginner bodybuilders looking for alternatives to Ostarine, here are some popular options:

RAD 140 (Testolone): Known for its excellent muscle-building and fat-burning properties, RAD 140 is a favorite among those looking to gain lean muscle mass.
LGD-4033 (Ligandrol): This SARM is highly effective for increasing strength and muscle mass, making it a great choice for beginners.
Cardarine (GW-501516): Although not technically a SARM, Cardarine is popular for its ability to enhance endurance and fat loss.
YK-11: This SARM is known for its ability to promote muscle growth and strength, similar to anabolic steroids.
S23: Effective for cutting cycles, S23 helps reduce body fat while preserving muscle mass.
Andarine (S4): This SARM is used for both bulking and cutting, offering muscle preservation and fat loss.

These alternatives offer various benefits and can be chosen based on individual goals and preferences. It's always important to research and consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.

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Overall

Ostarine (MK-2866) is a versatile and beginner-friendly SARM, offering significant benefits for muscle preservation, recovery, and lean growth. Its selective action and mild side-effect profile make it an attractive option for athletes and bodybuilders seeking an edge in performance and aesthetics. However, responsible use, including appropriate dosing, cycle length, and post-cycle therapy, is crucial to minimizing risks and maximizing results.

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