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Whether you’re shopping for a brand new pair of the best knee sleeves or replacing your old, worn-out ones, you’re probably looking to maximize your squatting performance or minimize a chronic joint problem (hello there, creaky knees).

Breaking Muscle has a passionate team of fitness enthusiasts that includes Olympic weightlifters, powerlifters, strength coaches, and personal trainers. Altogether, we’ve tested over sixteen different knee sleeves. I personally have also been wearing knee sleeves for years during my squat sessions and, occasionally, for CrossFit Workouts of the Day (WODs). 

We chose the best knee sleeves by dishing out nearly a dozen of them to our experienced product testing team of Olympic weightlifters and had them give benefits and drawbacks on each. We combined their hands-on feedback with the knee sleeve specs and their IPF & IWF approval status to give each an overall ranking from 1 to 5.

Of course, part of choosing the best knee sleeves means getting the perfect fit for you. As knee sleeves have no universal sizing, we’ve only selected brands with a helpful size chart, so you can get the right fit on your first try.

Our Top Picks for the Best Knee Sleeves

• Best Knee Sleeves Overall: DMOOSE Knee Sleeves
• Best Knee Sleeves for Squats: Gymreapers 7mm Knee Sleeves
• Best Knee Sleeves for Powerlifting: SBD Powerlifting Knee Sleeves 
• Best Knee Sleeves for Arthritis: IMAK Compression Arthritis Knee Sleeves
• Best Knee Sleeves for Weightlifting: Iron Bull Strength 7mm Knee Sleeves
• Best Knee Sleeves for CrossFit: Element 26 Agility Knee Sleeves
• Best Budget Knee Sleeves: DMOOSE Reversible Knee Sleeves
• Best Knee Sleeves for Running: Rehband 3mm Knee Sleeves

Best Knee Sleeves Overall: DMOOSE Knee Sleeves

DMoose Knee Sleeves

4.5

• Material: Neoprene
• Thickness: Seven millimeters
• Available sizes: S to XXL
• IPF/IWF-approved: No

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The DMOOSE knee sleeves are the best knee sleeves overall due to their supportive seven-millimeter thick neoprene material, build quality, and 30-day money-back guarantee.

Made from neoprene, these offer an incredible amount of stretch and support for your knees. Seven millimeters is the ideal thickness for lower-body strength training. While you’ll feel the most support on knee-focused exercises like squats, lunges, and step-ups, you’ll also feel the benefits of DMOOSE’s knee sleeves in posterior-chain movements, like deadlifts and good mornings. 

The double-stitching on these sleeves makes the seams much less likely to begin unraveling. It also adds an extra layer of durability, giving you greater peace of mind that they’ll last years of solid use.

DMOOSE offers a 30-day money-back guarantee, which is great for support products in general, and is one of the only companies out of all the knee sleeve options in this article that offers a money-back guarantee. While lower-quality knee sleeves may feature a lower price tag, they usually come without this assurance. If the DMOOSE knee sleeves don’t meet your standard, you can get your money back.

The sizes available for these knee sleeves are more limited than other brands, running from small to double extra-large. As a result, lifters with smaller or exceptionally large legs might have a more challenging time finding an ideal fit. If this concerns you, consider the SBD sleeves instead — they offer 11 different sizes.

DMOOSE’s return policy could be better. They offer free returns but don’t accept opened products, according to their return policy. This means that as soon as you physically open your knee sleeve’s package, you’ll lose the opportunity to exchange or return them if you got the wrong size. Because of this, ensure you correctly measure based on their sizing chart to maximize the chances of ordering the proper size. That said, you’d technically be eligible for a return under their 30-day guarantee if they don’t perform satisfactorily in that timeframe.

Unfortunately, these knee sleeves aren’t IPF or IWF-approved. For competitive powerlifters and weightlifters, you’ll have to look elsewhere for knee sleeves permitted for a meet under either of those federations.

All the above considered, we rank these 4.5 out of 5 stars for their extra-supportive seven-millimeter thickness, durable double-stitching, and 30-day guarantee.

Best Knee Sleeves for Squats: Gymreapers 7mm Knee Sleeves

Gymreapers 7MM Knee Sleeves

4.5

• Material: Neoprene
• Thickness: 7mm
• Available sizes: S to XXL
• IPF/IWF-approved: IPF

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I’ve owned the Gymreapers 7mm Knee Sleeves for over two years and use them at least once a week. Not only are the neoprene material and stitching quality impressive, but I love their 7mm thickness. It makes them supportive but not so restrictive that I have to take them off or roll them down between sets. Plus, they rarely slide down unless I wear a pair of slick leggings, and even then, it’s only minor adjustments between sets. Despite the consistent use I’ve put them through, the edges are all still intact, and there are no signs of framing in the seams — these get an A+ for durability in my books.

The Gymreapers 7mm knee sleeves are approved by the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF). This is great if you’re a competitive powerlifter or aspire to compete in one of the most recognized federations worldwide because you can train with the same gear you’ll be competing with. Practicing your squats with the exact same support gear you’ll be using in your meets can offer noticeable physical and psychological benefits that could give you an edge over your competitors.

A one-year replacement warranty also backs these knee sleeves. My knee sleeves from Gymreapers are still going strong after two years of consistent use, so I highly doubt you’ll ever need to use their warranty. But unlike a quality squat rack, support wear like knee sleeves will accumulate wear and tear above a cosmetic level. Even if you never need it, this policy is thoughtful and gives you peace of mind for an entire year in a product space where warranties are rare. 

Gymreapers’ return policy could be better for these knee sleeves. At the time of writing, their return policy claims that they don’t accept returns that have been worn or washed or have visible signs of use. However, I seriously doubt Gymreapers would reject a return because you tried on the knee sleeves, realized they don’t fit correctly, and either want an exchange or your money back. Leg proportions and design vary widely, so it can be challenging to get the ideal size, even with their size guide. So, if you want the ability to return or exchange them, keep this in mind before purchasing.

I found the size chart accurate and the fit excellent, but it would be helpful if they offered more sizes. Gymreapers features five sizes (S to XXL), which is standard for knee sleeves. That said, those who are more petite or have lean legs may find that even the small size is still too big to fit correctly.

All the above considered, we rank these 4.5 out of 5 stars for their durable neoprene, reinforced stitching, IPF approval, and one-year replacement guarantee.

Best Knee Sleeves for Powerlifting: SBD Powerlifting Knee Sleeves

SBD Powerlifting Knee Sleeves

4.2

• Material: Neoprene
• Thickness: 7mm
• Available sizes: 3XS to 5XL
• IPF/IWF-approved: IPF

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SBD is world-renowned in powerlifting circles as the top choice for knee sleeves because they’re incredibly supportive, are manufactured in Great Britain, and you’re almost guaranteed to find an ideal fit among their 11 sizes.

If you want the crème de la crème of knee sleeves for powerlifting, look no further than the SBD powerlifting sleeves. They’re approved by the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF), which makes them suitable for IPF-affiliated powerlifting competitions. Aspiring world-record-setting powerlifters trust this brand, so it’s hard to go wrong if powerlifting is important to you.

The SBD knee sleeves are built from high-density seven-millimeter neoprene, which SBD claims offers maximum compression and contact area for your knees as they bend. Their patented design also boasts a four-way stretch that allows them to keep the high compression they’re known for without gagging around your knees during your lift. A product tester from the Breaking Muscle team put the SBDs through squats, cleans, snatches, and split squats. He noticed that despite their high compression level, they didn’t feel super restrictive. This means that they’ll continue feeling comfortable during lengthy squat workouts. 

I was immediately impressed with the size range of the SBD knee sleeves. They carry a staggering 11 different sizes, from 3XS to 5XL! With this many sizes and a detailed fit guide, you’re practically guaranteed to find your ideal fit. If you don’t succeed on the first order, they offer a great exchange policy: the knee sleeves may be tried on but can’t be used for a workout, and you can request an exchange up to 30 days after receiving them. Regarding exchange policies, I think this is one of the fairest of all companies in this article.

The SBDs are manufactured in Great Britain (GB), which immediately sets them above most knee sleeve brands that import theirs from overseas manufacturers. There are higher manufacturing and worker standards in GB, so you can trust the high-grade neoprene and double stitching to hold firm as you hit new PRs.

Our product tester found the sleeves lived up to their hard-to-get-on reputation; they had to be folded in half and then dragged up his lower legs before being rolled over. Because they’re so grippy, you’ll get a mini arm workout to start your squatting session. Applying a bit of baby powder to your legs beforehand can make this experience noticeably easier.

The price of these knee sleeves is also one of the highest in this list at $125.00 per pair. Unless you’re a competitive powerlifter or want the best for your powerlifting-style squat sessions, there are more affordable options, like the Gymreapers 7mm Knee Sleeves. 

All the above considered, we rank these 4.2 out of 5 stars for their IPF & IWF approval, world-renowned construction, and 11 sizes available.

Best Knee Sleeves for Arthritis: IMAK Compression Arthritis Knee Sleeves

IMAK Compression Arthritis Knee Sleeve

4.0

• Material: Cotton (92%) and spandex (8%)
• Thickness: Not listed
• Available sizes: XS to XL
• IPF/IWF-approved: No

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The IMAK Compression Knee Sleeves are made from soft cotton and stretchy spandex to offer comfort and mild compression all day (or night), making them the best knee sleeves for arthritis.

These compression sleeves are made from a soft and stretchy cotton-spandex blend. This material combo makes it easy for you to slide them on and off. Being 92% cotton, they’ll offer warmth while still being breathable, so they won’t cause your knees to sweat excessively.

The thickness of the knee sleeve wasn’t listed on their product page, but one customer mentioned the IMAKs are so lightweight that they forget they even have them on. It means they won’t be too compressive, so you can wear them all day or night without worrying about cutting off your circulation. For those with arthritis, this is a good thing. If they were super thick and bulky, they would be noticeable around the clock, and wearing them for long periods would be completely off the table. The cotton material can also help soothe some symptoms of arthritis by providing warmth to your knees. 

They’re pretty affordable, which is likely due to most of their material being cotton, a more economical option than neoprene. However, they’re also sold in singles, which is great, as you can purchase a single sleeve if your arthritis is in one knee only. If you need a pair of them, they’re still priced economically. Retailing at just $17.99 at the time of writing, they’re the most budget-friendly knee sleeves in this article, even when a pair is bought. As far as non-invasive treatments go for arthritic knees, these knee sleeves are a great low-cost option.

Unfortunately, the IMAK knee sleeves are only available in five sizes. If you’re extra petite or have extra-lean legs, you might find that the XS size isn’t small enough. Similarly, their sizes cap out at an XL — which may pose an issue if you or your knees are significantly larger than average.

The IMAKs may have trouble staying in place throughout the entire day. They have a stretchy tri-band, but due to their lighter compression material, they won’t be as resistant to movement at the knee. One reviewer mentioned that their knee sleeves kept rolling down on them, but other reviews didn’t mention this, so that may have been an issue of improper sizing.

All the above considered, we rank these 4 out of 5 stars for their cotton-spandex blend, warmth and compression, and affordable price.

RELATED: Got Knee Pain? Fix Your Tracking in the Squat and Lunge

Best Knee Sleeves for Weightlifting: Iron Bull Strength 7mm Knee Sleeves

Iron Bull Strength 7mm Knee Sleeves

4.5

• Material: Neoprene
• Thickness: 7mm
• Available sizes: S to XXL
• IPF/IWF-approved: Yes

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Iron Bull Strength’s knee sleeves are approved by the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF). For actively competing veterans and beginner weightlifters just starting out, being able to train with the exact same equipment that you’ll be competing with is a distinct advantage. After training regularly with them, you’ll feel comfortable with the compression and support as you squat out of the hole on a heavy clean or snatch. Having practice with this before your competition makes the difference between them being a performance enhancer instead of a distraction.

What I’m most impressed about regarding the Iron Bull Strength knee sleeves is their dual approval. These sleeves are also approved for use in the IPF. Typically, knee sleeves are designed explicitly for powerlifting or weightlifting use — being certified for both sports at the highest level is a rarity. If you like to dabble in these strength sports or want to without sinking more money in support gear, these are the sleeves for you.

These knee sleeves are made from high-grade neoprene. They feature extra durable double-stitched welded seams that, according to Iron Bull Strength, are incredibly strong and significantly reduce the risk of failure. This is exactly what any serious weightlifter wants — gear they can trust when training and on the platform.

Iron Bull comes with a 30-day return policy, starting when you receive your knee sleeves. However, they must be in the same condition you received them in: unworn/unused, with the tags intact, and in the original packaging. In other words, they have to be brand new. That means you can’t even try them on without losing your ability to return or exchange them, which we don’t love.

Plus, if you do end up needing to return them, it’ll be at personal cost. Original shipping costs are non-refundable unless damaged, defective, or there’s a shipping error. Make sure to use their detailed sizing chart to minimize the risk of ordering the wrong size.

All the above considered, we rank these 4.5 out of 5 stars for their IWF and IPF approval, high-grade neoprene with double-stitched seams, and 30-day money-back guarantee.

RELATED: How to Train the Squat for Both Powerlifting and Weightlifting

Best Knee Sleeves for CrossFit: Element 26 Agility Knee Sleeves

Element 26 3mm Agility Knee Sleeves

3.5

• Material: Nylon-elastic blend
• Thickness: 3mm
• Available sizes: S to L
• IPF/IWF-approved: No

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CrossFit is widely known for its exercise variety, from one-rep max squats to hour-long conditioning sessions. Because of this exercise range, finding knee sleeves for CrossFit can be a serious challenge. Three-millimeter sleeves are ideal when joint mobility and comfort are prioritized, like for longer cardio-focused WODs. Meanwhile, seven-millimeter knee sleeves offer the best support and compression for heavy strength training.

As a result, CrossFitters often resort to buying TWO separate pairs of knee sleeves and using the one that best aligns with the WOD they’ll be doing. This is a mistake that ends up costing them twice as much. 

Enter the Element 26 Agility Knee Sleeves.

The Element 26s are a lightweight sleeve, making them ideal for CrossFit. They’re only 3mm thick, offering excellent mobility for those longer endurance-focused WODs. Since they’re considerably thinner than 7mm knee sleeves, they’ll also be more comfortable and less restrictive for the conditioning components of your WODs like running, skipping, or rowing.

Contrary to what some CrossFitters think, they don’t need super thick knee sleeves because Crossfit isn’t just about lifting heavy — it’s about being an amazing all-round athlete. For this reason, a pair of 7mm sleeves often ends up being too thick and complete overkill. Ultimately, this means you can invest in and wear one pair of knee sleeves…no more flipping between two pairs or spending money you don’t have to!

The Element 26s are highly crafted to ensure they’re as breathable as can be. They’re built with a hybrid nylon-elastic blend, which is designed to absorb sweat and evaporate it to keep you more comfortable. For serious CrossFitters, every legitimate advantage can give you an edge in crushing your WODs with the best time possible — including effective sweat management, especially in hot gyms.

According to Element 26, these knee sleeves are anatomically designed. This likely means they’re made in a tapered shape to follow the natural contours of the average lifter’s leg, knee, and calf sizes. As such, they should stay in place without bunching behind your knees, which can be uncomfortable and cause your skin to rub.

For knee sleeves, this feature is seriously underrated — especially for CrossFit. The last thing you want in your WODs is to pull your knee sleeves up after every burpee because they’re sliding down or readjust them after every set of wall balls because they’re bunching up behind your knees and causing your skin to chafe. 

Only three sizes are available (S to L). CrossFit and other similar training styles are rising in popularity, so I’m disappointed that there isn’t a more extensive range of sizes.

The IPF or IWF doesn’t approve these for competition use. However, I don’t think that matters if you’re using them for CrossFit because they’re not designed to squeeze out every drop of your powerlifting or weightlifting performance — they’re made to help you perform better as a hybrid athlete.

All the above considered, we rank these 4.5 out of 5 stars for their unrestricting 3mm thickness, breathable & sweat-wicking material, and comfortable tapered shape.

RELATED: Best CrossFit Shoes for Flat Feet, Wide Feet, and More (2023)

Best Budget Knee Sleeves: DMOOSE Reversible Knee Sleeves

DMoose Reversible Knee Sleeves

4.0

• Material: Neoprene
• Thickness: 7mm
• Available sizes: S to XXL
• IPF/IWF-approved: No

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At the time of writing, the DMOOSE Reversibles retail at $39.00 but were on sale at $35.00. For knee sleeves, this is an excellent price at the 7mm thickness. Great quality 7mm knee sleeves generally range between $50.00 and $70.00, with the higher-end coming from popular name brands. Being only 35% of the cost of the top-tier SBD Powerlifting knee sleeves, these are definitely within reach for the budget-conscious lifter.

I’m impressed with the quality of these sleeves despite their economical price. With lower prices, you’ll usually see obvious corners cut: no double-stitched seams, 3-5mm thickness, and poor fits. However, these Reversibles break the mold in each category. 

They share the same durable double-stitched seams of more expensive sleeves, which means you get the same reassurance from knee sleeve blowouts. They feature the same 7mm thickness as pricier brands, so you get the same extra-supportive fee on your squats. They’re even anatomically shaped to ensure they’ll fit correctly for most people.

I’m pleasantly surprised that these are approved by the United States Powerlifting Association (USPA). To offer the lowest price, companies usually cut costs wherever they can, and competition approval is often the first to be discarded because the approval process is expensive. It’s only a single powerlifting federation, but the fact that these are approved for in-competition use in the USPA — which claims they’re the largest powerlifting federation — is a big plus. 

Despite being USPA-approved, they aren’t permitted for competition use in the IPF or IWF, and it’s unlikely they ever will be. As the most prestigious federations for powerlifting and weightlifting in the world, respectively, approval costs for equipment are significantly higher. Seeing these are budget-friendly knee sleeves, I think the lack of certification is entirely understandable.

The product page doesn’t specify what material these reversible knee sleeves are made of. Quality knee sleeves are almost always made with neoprene because of its stretchy support and compression. However, cheap knee sleeves can be made with similar-feeling materials that are lower in quality and durability than neoprene. Unlike the DMOOSE knee sleeves that won our Best Knee Sleeves Overall, assuming neoprene is the primary material might not be wise considering they’re such a budget-friendly price.

All the above considered, we rank these 4 out of 5 stars for their budget-friendly price, solid overall construction, and USPA approval.

Best Knee Sleeves for Running: Rehband 3mm Knee Sleeves

Rehband Knee Sleeve 3mm Neoprene

4.0

• Material: 70% SBR/30% neoprene
• Thickness: 3mm
• Available sizes: XXS to XXL
• IPF/IWF-approved: No

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When it comes to knee support while running, these Rehbands take the cake. They’re built with neoprene but in a lightweight 3mm thickness, which is just right as far as thickness goes. 

While great for weight lifting, 7mm is too much support and compression for running — even a thinner 5mm is still too thick. 3mm allows you to use your regular stride without modifying it unnaturally for your knee sleeve. The 3mm thickness keeps your knees warm while allowing for ample flexibility as you hit the road for miles, making it the best option for running.

Rehband has been around since 1955, and these knee sleeves are a testament to their reputation as a company. They’re handmade in Estonia, so they must adhere to higher manufacturing and working standards than other countries overseas, who might cut corners in their construction processes, or mistreat workers — resulting in lower-quality products. This means you can rely on knee sleeves from Rehband being higher quality than cheaper alternatives.

These knee sleeves for running come in seven sizes, from XXS to XXL. I’m happy to see this range of sizes because whether you have lean or heavily muscled legs, you can be reasonably sure you’ll find a size that will fit. More importantly, using their size chart to find an ideal size for your leg proportions will ensure your knee sleeves stay in place for your runs. 

These Rehbands aren’t ideal for CrossFit. The 3mm thickness is too thin to provide noticeable support for the heavier loads and impacts seen in strength-focused WODs from thrusters, box jumps, and barbell back squats. If you choose to use them for CrossFit anyway, they’ll still offer warmth and proprioception for your knees.

The Rehband 3mm’s are made from 70% SBR (styrene butadiene rubber). Compared to neoprene, SBR is lower quality because it has less compressive resistance. This would be a bigger concern if you needed to use them for weight lifting, so they’ll be just fine for running

All the above considered, we rank these 4 out of 5 stars for their ideal thickness for running, reputable manufacturing, and seven sizes available.

RELATED: Size Doesn’t Matter – But Your Technique Does (For Running, That Is)

Benefits of Knee Sleeves

Compression and Support

Knee sleeves offer a dual advantage of compression and support for your knees during lower body workouts, especially for exercises that involve bending and extending your knees. 

The compression they provide not only enhances blood circulation but also stabilizes the surrounding ligaments, tendons, and your kneecap. This added stability is a game-changer whether you’re an athlete or fitness enthusiast, allowing you to perform at your best while minimizing the risk of injury.

Increased Blood Flow

One of the often-overlooked benefits of knee sleeves is their ability to promote increased blood flow to the knee area. The compression from knee sleeves generates a gentle warmth, which feels comfortable and encourages better circulation.

Assistance “Out of the Hole” When Squatting 

For avid weightlifters, knee sleeves can be a lifeline for squats. They offer crucial assistance during the initial phase of a squat’s ascent, commonly called “coming out of the hole.” By providing additional support and stability, knee sleeves help lifters push through this challenging point in their squat, which can be a secret weapon in achieving new personal bests.

Increased Proprioception

Wearing knee sleeves can boost your proprioception, the body’s awareness of its position in space. With knee sleeves, you’ll have a heightened sense of where your knees are during squats, lunges, and step-ups. This increased awareness can make a significant difference, helping you maintain proper form and alignment. You’ll be more attuned to the way your knees bend and extend, potentially reducing the risk of improper movement that might lead to injury.

What to Consider When Buying Knee Sleeves

Materials and Construction

Knee sleeves are made from various materials, depending on their purpose. 

Sleeves for arthritis are often made with a cotton/spandex blend to ensure they’re breathable and comfortable to wear all day.

3mm to 7mm knee sleeves will almost exclusively be made with “neoprene,” a unique type of rubber-like foam material that’s also used as the primary material for wetsuits. Because of its stretchy form-fitting properties, it’s considered the gold standard for knee sleeves. 

Reinforced stitching is needed if you want a pair of knee sleeves that won’t unravel after a few months. This is commonly practiced by double-stitching, though cross-pattern double-stitching, like what’s used on the Element 26’s, is even better to reduce the chances of any threads coming loose.

Neoprene Quality

Neoprene comes in different qualities or grades, sometimes listed on knee sleeve product pages as SBR, SCR, and CR.

• SBR (styrene-butadiene-rubber) is the lowest quality of neoprene because it has lower compression resistance and is cheaper overall. Companies who don’t want to disclose that they use this lower-quality SBR material may try to list it as “neoprene” without mentioning the quality or grade.
• CR (chloroprene rubber) is the highest quality of neoprene. Despite its higher price, it has great elasticity and strength, making it an excellent choice for knee sleeves. Companies might mention using high-quality/high-grade neoprene when they use CR to demonstrate that their knee sleeves are genuinely made from premium neoprene.
• SCR (styrene chloroprene rubber) is a medium-grade neoprene that combines the properties and qualities of SBR and CR. This is a suitable happy medium for knee sleeve material as far as quality and value go.

Thickness

Knee sleeves come in various thicknesses depending on the activity you need them for. 

• 3mm is relatively thin and will only give light support and compression to your knees. Because of this, 3mm is best for cardio activities like running and endurance-focused CrossFit workouts, where you want warmth and lightweight support that won’t impair your joint flexibility.
• 5mm to 6mm will offer a medium level of support and compression. Because of its thicker layer, it’s ideal for hybrid activities like resistance-focused CrossFit metcons and circuit training.
• 7mm gives noticeably more support and compression for weight lifting. As a result, they’ll generally feel tighter, which makes them great for heavy squats, but they aren’t the most comfortable for longer workouts over two hours. 

Sizing

For starters, always use the brand’s fit guide to ensure you select the correct size of knee sleeves, providing a fit that’s not too tight or loose.

If you want more pop out of the hole, opt for a tighter pair of knee sleeves by sizing down. If you want them to be less compressive or restrictive, size up instead.

Sleeve Shape and Fit

There are no universal knee sleeve sizes or shapes, so the same knee sleeve size can feel and fit completely differently between two brands.

Generally, there are three knee sleeve shapes: straight, hourglass, and tapered. All of these shapes refer to the difference in widths between the top, middle, and bottom of the sleeve. 

• Straight is precisely as it sounds and is best for people with the same size of thighs, knees, and calves.
• Hourglass-shaped sleeves are smaller at the kneecap but are designed for larger thighs and calves.
• Tapered is the most common, which follows the standard anatomical shape of most people’s legs. The thighs are largest above the knee, followed by the knees, with the calves being the smallest.

Competition Approval

As a competitive powerlifter or weightlifter, practicing like you play will give you an advantage come meet day. Competition-approved allow you to use them in your training and get every pound out of them in your meet.

Federation rules vary widely, so check to see what knee sleeves are permitted for your federation. However, powerlifters and weightlifters should consider the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) and International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) approved equipment lists as the gold standards, respectively.

Competition-approved knee sleeves also tend to be more durable than their non-approved counterparts because the former must meet a specific standard for use in IPF and IWF meets.

Warranty

Warranties on support wear are underrated. I’d encourage you not to overlook one, just in case the knee sleeves don’t meet your performance standards or their threads unravel in a few short months. 

I’d recommend settling for no less than a six-month warranty. Support wear will inevitably wear and tear, so it’s unrealistic to expect them to endure forever. That said, a 1-year warranty is considered excellent for knee sleeves and will give you more peace of mind during your workouts.

Return Policy

To ensure you’re not stuck with a pair of ill-fitting knee sleeves, I recommend buying from a company that offers a fair return policy. That way, you can exchange them or get your money back if they don’t fit correctly.

At the bare minimum, they should allow you to return or exchange your knee sleeves within 14 days of receiving them, and you should be allowed to try them on to confirm the size you choose will work. Generous policies extend the return period to between 30 to 60 days.

Your Strength Level

Like any support wear, knee sleeves will experience wear and tear over time. However, this process will accelerate the stronger you are. 

As advanced or elite-level strength athletes lift significantly heavier weights than rank novices, their knee sleeves will take on more strain, wearing out faster. 

Colors

Not everyone loves the jet-black look. If you like color-coordinating your workout outfits, consider shopping with a brand that offers multiple colors. 

It’s a creative way to add some of your personality to your lifting gear. Plus, it’ll be hard to misplace your knee sleeves if they’re hot pink.

Final Thought

Knee sleeves are an excellent tool for supporting your knees and improving your squatting performance. When it comes down to it, though, picking the best knee sleeves for you depends on what you value regarding material, thickness, competition approval status, and more.

Best Knee Sleeves: Side-by-Side Comparison

Best Knee Sleeves Overall	Best Knee Sleeves for Squats	Best Knee Sleeves for Powerlifting	Best Knee Sleeves for Arthritis	Best Knee Sleeves for Weightlifting	Best Knee Sleeves for CrossFit	Best Budget Knee Sleeves	Best Knee Sleeves for Running
DMoose Knee Sleeves	Gymreapers 7MM Knee Sleeves	SBD Powerlifting Knee Sleeves	IMAK Compression Arthritis Knee Sleeve	Iron Bull Strength 7mm Knee Sleeves	Element 26 3mm Agility Knee Sleeves	DMoose Reversible Knee Sleeves	Rehband Knee Sleeve 3mm Neoprene
4.5	4.5	4.2	4.0	4.5	3.5	4.0	4.0
Description: Material: Neoprene Thickness: Seven millimeters Available sizes: S to XXL IPF/IWF-approved: No	Description: Material: Neoprene Thickness: 7mm Available sizes: S to XXL IPF/IWF-approved: IPF	Description: Material: Neoprene Thickness: 7mm Available sizes: 3XS to 5XL IPF/IWF-approved: IPF	Description: Material: Cotton (92%) and spandex (8%) Thickness: Not listed Available sizes: XS to XL IPF/IWF-approved: No	Description: Material: Neoprene Thickness: 7mm Available sizes: S to XXL IPF/IWF-approved: Yes	Description: Material: Nylon-elastic blend Thickness: 3mm Available sizes: S to L IPF/IWF-approved: No	Description: Material: Neoprene Thickness: 7mm Available sizes: S to XXL IPF/IWF-approved: No	Description: Material: 70% SBR/30% neoprene Thickness: 3mm Available sizes: XXS to XXL IPF/IWF-approved: No
Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price

Best Knee Sleeves Overall

DMoose Knee Sleeves

4.5

Description:

• Material: Neoprene
• Thickness: Seven millimeters
• Available sizes: S to XXL
• IPF/IWF-approved: No

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Best Knee Sleeves for Squats

Gymreapers 7MM Knee Sleeves

4.5

Description:

• Material: Neoprene
• Thickness: 7mm
• Available sizes: S to XXL
• IPF/IWF-approved: IPF

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Best Knee Sleeves for Powerlifting

SBD Powerlifting Knee Sleeves

4.2

Description:

• Material: Neoprene
• Thickness: 7mm
• Available sizes: 3XS to 5XL
• IPF/IWF-approved: IPF

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Best Knee Sleeves for Arthritis

IMAK Compression Arthritis Knee Sleeve

4.0

Description:

• Material: Cotton (92%) and spandex (8%)
• Thickness: Not listed
• Available sizes: XS to XL
• IPF/IWF-approved: No

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Best Knee Sleeves for Weightlifting

Iron Bull Strength 7mm Knee Sleeves

4.5

Description:

• Material: Neoprene
• Thickness: 7mm
• Available sizes: S to XXL
• IPF/IWF-approved: Yes

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Best Knee Sleeves for CrossFit

Element 26 3mm Agility Knee Sleeves

3.5

Description:

• Material: Nylon-elastic blend
• Thickness: 3mm
• Available sizes: S to L
• IPF/IWF-approved: No

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Best Budget Knee Sleeves

DMoose Reversible Knee Sleeves

4.0

Description:

• Material: Neoprene
• Thickness: 7mm
• Available sizes: S to XXL
• IPF/IWF-approved: No

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Best Knee Sleeves for Running

Rehband Knee Sleeve 3mm Neoprene

4.0

Description:

• Material: 70% SBR/30% neoprene
• Thickness: 3mm
• Available sizes: XXS to XXL
• IPF/IWF-approved: No

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FAQs

The post Best Knee Sleeves for Powerlifting, CrossFit, Running, and More (2023) appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

http://www.marksdailyapple.com/

Research of the Week

Melatonin improves platelet aggregation (clumping) in healthy individuals, less so in type 2 diabetics.

Long term spaceflight induces depression and cognitive impairment in astronauts.

Black seed oil appears to protect against Tylenol intoxication of the liver.

Collagen improves endurance running performance.

High triglycerides and blood glucose, lower cognitive function.

New Primal Kitchen Podcasts

Primal Kitchen Podcast: The Benefits of Medical Marijuana and Psychedelics

Primal Health Coach Radio: Annette Verpillot

Media, Schmedia

Cells or food?

Interesting Blog Posts

Human height in prehistoric Europe.

Social Notes

No excuses.

Everything Else

Calcium supplements may increase the risk of cramping in older women; magnesium lotion helps fix the issue.

Despite strong chronic sun exposure, there is no skin cancer among the Wayuu people.

Inflammation beats LDL for predictive power.

Things I’m Up to and Interested In

Reminder: Seed oil metabolites are linked to almost every disease.

Be careful: May your optimism be realistic.

Interesting: Money does make happiness easier to achieve.

Food wins: Oysters correct anemia.

Every time: After a stroke, magnesium protects against mortality.

Question I’m Asking

What makes you happy?

Recipe Corner

• Paleo tonkatsu.
• Keto cassoulet.

Time Capsule

One year ago (Nov 4 – Nov 10)

• Winter Camping 101—How to do it.
• Ask a Health Coach: How Do I Feel More Confident?—How?

Comment of the Week

“Leptin, schleptin. My biggest bouts of ‘overfeeding’ have occured around the family dinnertable during all-out holiday meals. The benefits have less to do with weight gain or loss, more to do with community and fun. Blood sugar surges aside, I’ll never regret second slices of my mom’s apple pie.“

-I think it’s both!

The post New and Noteworthy: What I Read This Week—Edition 245 appeared first on Mark’s Daily Apple.

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Larry Wheels may have looked leaner than ever in the leadup to the 2023 Amateur Olympia, but it didn’t take long for him to move the needle in the opposite direction after falling short of securing his IFBB Pro League card.

Coming off an impressive performance at the 2023 NPC Ultimate Warriors in which he won his Classic Physique debut, the uber-popular powerlifter-turned-bodybuilder still had to trim a few inches off his sizable frame. Unfortunately for Wheels, his peak week efforts to go from 240 to 232 pounds didn’t result in a first-place finish in Orlando, FL, as Ejike Enwereuzor Jr. captured the Amateur Olympia Classic Physique championship on Nov. 2, 2023.

Less than a week later, however, Wheels’ body appeared vastly different than it did when he stood on stage at the Orange County Convention Center. On Nov. 5, 2023, a noticeably larger version of the versatile strength athlete shared a video on his YouTube video detailing how he gained 53 pounds in five days after competing in the Amateur Olympia. Not only did Wheels discuss his use of diuretics, but he also delivered a complete breakdown of the cheat meals he consumed that contributed to such a substantial jump.

Having last stepped on stage at around 265 pounds, Wheels went on a serious cut to get contest-ready for the Classic Physique category. Besides severely reducing his calories and essentially eliminating carbohydrates from his diet for several weeks, his weight-loss process also involved the use of diuretics, which bodybuilders often use during peak week to reduce muscle water retention, increase urine output, and excrete sodium to present a more aesthetic physique. (1)

“This was my first time getting fully depleted for a show,” Wheels explained. “I did use diuretics to make weight and to have that dry, hard look on stage.”

Despite falling short of his goal of earning his IFBB Pro League card, the record-setting powerlifter-turned-bodybuilder certainly proved how powerful combining diuretics with a calorie-restrictive diet can be for quickly transforming your physique. Yet after tipping the scales at 231.4 pounds during weigh-ins on Oct. 30, 2023, and competing in the Amateur Olympia at 238 pounds two days later, Wheels surprised himself by ballooning up to 284 pounds by Nov. 4, 2023.

“I don’t think I’ve consumed enough fluid and solid food to add up to 40 pounds,” he said. “I don’t understand where all the weight came from.”

[Related: Walking for Weight Loss: A Guide to Drop the Pounds]

While Wheels’ massive weight gain may seem shocking, it shouldn’t be based on both his diuretic use and his post-contest diet. After utilizing diuretics twice within three days to make weight for both shows, it would only be natural for his body to begin retaining fluids instead of shedding them. Plus, when you stop taking diuretics and start binge eating like Wheels did, you’re bound to see the number on the scale go up as you replenish your muscle glycogen stores.

In a classic example of the effects of a post-contest cheat meal spree, here’s what the social media star ate that left him 53 pounds heavier.

Larry Wheels’ Full Cheat Meal Lineup

After abstaining from any type of comfort food for quite some time, Wheels went all-in over two days with nine calorie-dense cheat meals:

Day One

• Cheat Meal One: Two bacon double cheeseburgers and one large fry (Five Guys)
• Cheat Meal Two: 16-pounce ribeye steak and sweet potato mash (Ruth’s Chris Steak House)
• Cheat Meal Three: One bag of Pop-Tarts
• Cheat Meal Four: Two cups of noodles

Day Two

• Cheat Meal Five: Cinnamon roll pancakes, hash browns, and sunny-side-up eggs
• Cheat Meal Six: Cinnamon roll bagel with cream cheese, orange juice, and a bowl of cereal
• Cheat Meal Seven: Bacon double cheeseburger with French fries and lemon cookies
• Cheat Meal Eight: Fried chicken sandwich, six bone-in wings, three chicken tenders, and French fries — plus chocolate cake with vanilla ice cream for dessert (Buffalo Wild Wings)
• Cheat Meal Nine: 14-inch margherita pizza, garlic knots, and a salad

Ultimately, Wheels estimated that he consumed about 20,000 calories within the first 24 hours after stepping on the Amateur Olympia stage. But after taking a no-holds-barred approach to eating and seeing the number on the scale shoot up by more than 50 pounds in such a short amount of time, he sounded ready to get back to a more disciplined lifestyle.

“It’s time to screw my head back on straight and eat clean,” he said.

Featured Image: Larry Wheels / YouTube

References

1. Escalante, G., Stevenson, S.W., Barakat, C. et al. Peak week recommendations for bodybuilders: an evidence-based approach. BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil 13, 68 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13102-021-00296-y

The post Larry Wheels Gained 53 Pounds in 5 Days After Finishing Second at 2023 Amateur Olympia appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

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Between expanded divisions and a new location, the 2024 CrossFit Games, designed to find the fittest people on the planet, will look different than its previous editions. For athletes seeking championship glory, the countdown to testing their strength, speed, and stamina against the likes of reigning Fittest Man on Earth® Jeff Adler and fellow 2023 CrossFit Games winner Laura Horvath has officially begun.

On Nov. 8, 2023, CrossFit HQ announced the upcoming 2024 CrossFit Games season will commence with the 2024 CrossFit Open on Thursday, Feb. 29, 2024. That event will kick off a multi-stage competition that concludes with the top Individuals and Teams taking their talents to Fort Worth, TX, for the 2024 CrossFit Games scheduled for Aug. 8-11, 2024.

Below is a division-by-division breakdown of the 2024 season structure, along with key competition dates to keep on your calendar.

• Individuals
• Teams
• Age-Group
• Adaptive

Individuals

The Open

Registration for the Open begins on Jan. 9, 2024. Participants must complete three workouts during a three-week span at their affiliates or home gyms. The workouts will be released on the CrossFit Games website on Thursdays at noon PT. All athletes have until the following Monday at 5 p.m. PT to submit their scores online.

• Registration begins: Jan. 9, 2024
• Workout 24.1: Feb. 29-March 4
• Workout 24.2: March 7-11
• Workout 24.3: March 14-18

Quarterfinals

The second virtual stage of the 2024 CrossFit Games season will separate the top athletes from the rest of the field as individuals complete a series of workouts at their affiliate gyms across six days to see who advances to the Semifinals. After allowing only the top 10 percent of individuals in each region to move from the Open to the Individual Quarterfinal in 2023, CrossFit HQ has opened the door for more athletes to participate in 2024 by expanding that threshold to the top 25 percent of the worldwide Open.

The regions include North America West, North America East, Europe, Asia, Africa, Oceania, and South America.

• Registration begins: April 1, 2024
• Individual Quarterfinal: April 17-22

Semifinals

The final qualifying stage for athletes vying for the sport’s ultimate prize will feature the top 40 individual men and 40 individual women from each region competing in person.

According to CrossFit HQ, dates and locations for the Semifinals will be released at a later time.

The CrossFit Games

Scheduled for Aug. 8-11, 2024, the CrossFit Games will take place at Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, TX. There, the top 40 men and 40 women in the world will battle for the honor of becoming the Fittest Man on Earth® and the Fittest Woman on Earth®, respectively.

[Related: 2023 Rogue CrossFit Invitational Results — Laura Horvath and Patrick Vellner Become Two-Time Champions]

Teams

The Open

Per CrossFit HQ, any licensed affiliate in good standing with the company can register a team for the CrossFit Games Team competition. A team must consist of at least two men and two women who register as Individual competitors in the Open.

Teams will advance to the Quarterfinals based on their top two female and top two male scores in each workout, which must be done individually.

• Registration begins: Jan. 9, 2024
• Workout 24.1: Feb. 29-March 4
• Workout 24.2: March 7-11
• Workout 24.3: March 14-18

Quarterfinals

In the second stage of the competition, four-person teams comprised of two males and two females must work together to complete the Quarterfinal workouts at their affiliate gyms during a six-day period.

Just like the Individual division, the top 25 percent of teams in each region will advance to the Quarterfinals.

• Registration begins: April 1, 2024
• Team Quarterfinal: April 3-8

Semifinals

Although no dates or locations have been announced yet for the 2024 CrossFit Semifinals, the top 30 teams from each region will take part in the in-person competition.

The CrossFit Games

The top 30 teams in the world will join the top 40 men and top 40 women Individual competitors in Texas from Aug. 8-11 for the championship round of the 2024 CrossFit season.

[Related: 2023 CrossFit Games Team Division Results]

Age-Group

Broken into two distinct groups, here’s how the 2024 season will play out for the Age-Group divisions.

Masters

The Open

Featuring athletes between the ages of 35 and 65+, the Masters division will start its season with the same three-week worldwide Open. The groups are separated accordingly:

• Men and Women: 35-39
• Men and Women: 40-44
• Men and Women: 45-49
• Men and Women: 50-54
• Men and Women: 55-59
• Men and Women: 60-64
• Men and Women: 65+

Key dates to keep in mind:

• Registration begins: Jan. 9, 2024
• Workout 24.1: Feb. 29-March 4
• Workout 24.2: March 7-11
• Workout 24.3: March 14-18

Quarterfinals

In another change for 2024, the top 25 percent (minimum 200) of athletes from each division will advance to the Age-Group Quarterfinal. Any athlete who qualifies for both the Age-Group and Individual Quarterfinals may compete in both without having to pay separate registration fees.

All workouts for individuals and select age groups (35-54) will be the same.

• Registration begins: April 1, 2024
• Age-Group Quarterfinal: April 17-22

Semifinals

The top 200 athletes from each age group will earn the opportunity to compete in the online Age-Group Semifinal, which will take place on May 8-13, 2024.

The Masters CrossFit Games by Legends

While the date and location for the Masters CrossFit Games by Legends have yet to be announced, we do know exactly how many athletes from each age group will advance to the championship stage.

• 35-39: 40 men and 40 women
• 40-44: 40 men and 40 women
• 45-49: 40 men and 40 women
• 50-54: 30 men and 30 women
• 55-59: 30 men and 30 women
• 60-64: 20 men and 20 women
• 65+: 20 men and 20 women

[Related: 2023 CrossFit Games Age Group Results]

Teenagers

The Open

Teenage athletes are divided into two groups: Boys and Girls 14-15 and Boys and Girls 16-17. All participants will start their season with the three-week Open.

• Registration begins: Jan. 9, 2024
• Workout 24.1: Feb. 29-March 4
• Workout 24.2: March 7-11
• Workout 24.3: March 14-18

Quarterfinals

The top 25 percent of each age group will get a chance to move on to the Quarterfinals. Like the Masters division, any athlete in the 16-17 division who also qualifies for the Quarterfinals as an Individual may compete at both. Athletes who qualify for both competitions only have to perform one set of programming.

• Registration begins: April 1, 2024
• Age-Group Quarterfinal: April 17-22

Semifinals

The top 200 teen competitors from each age group will inch one step closer to securing a spot in the championship round, with the online Age-Group Semifinal scheduled for May 8-13, 2024.

The Teenage CrossFit Games by PIT Teen Throwdown

Instead of traveling to the Lone Star State to try and win a title, the top 30 boys and top 30 girls will take their talents to Three Rivers, MI. The Teenage CrossFit Games by Pit Teen Throwdown will be hosted at a site that includes a 10,000-square-foot gym nestled on a 65-acre fitness ranch.

No date has been announced for the Teenage CrossFit Games.

[Related: 2023 CrossFit Games Adaptive Division Results]

Adaptive

The Adaptive CrossFit Open by WheelWOD

Run by WheelWOD for the first time, a more robust version of the Adaptive division will start its season with the online Adaptive CrossFit Open. To be more inclusive and allow more athletes to participate, there will be 15 Adaptive divisions in 2024, including:

• Upper Impairment 1 Point of Contact
• Upper Impairment 2 Points of Contact
• Lower Impairment Above Knee
• Lower Impairment Below Knee
• Lower Impairment Minor
• Seated Without Hip Function
• Seated With Hip Function
• Seated Quadriplegic
• Neuromuscular Major
• Neuromuscular Moderate
• Neuromuscular Minor
• Standing Diagnosed
• Visual Impairment
• Short Stature
• Intellectual 

Here are important dates to keep in mind for the upcoming season:

• Registration begins: Jan. 9, 2024
• Adaptive 24.1: Feb. 29-March 4
• Adaptive 24.2: March 7-11
• Adaptive 24.3: March 14-18

The Adaptive CrossFit Semifinals by WheelWODFOLLOW

The top 20 athletes from each adaptive division will move on to the online Adaptive CrossFit Semifinal by WheelWOD, which takes place from May 8-13, 2024.

The Adaptive CrossFit Games by WheelWOD

Finally, the top 10 athletes from all 15 divisions will compete for their respective championships. According to the press release, the date and location for the Adaptive CrossFit Games will be announced soon.

Featured Image: crossfitgames / Instagram

The post 2024 CrossFit Games Season Schedule: Division-by-Division Breakdown appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

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Coming off a third-place finish at the 2022 Mr. Olympia, Nick Walker looked bound for a podium finish at the 2023 Mr. Olympia. Unfortunately for the gifted bodybuilder, his quest to capture the 2023 Mr. Olympia crown came to a premature and painful end before the contest started.

Forced to withdraw from the biggest competition of the season because of a torn hamstring, Walker recently revealed he suffered even more damage than initially thought. In a video posted on his Instagram page on Nov. 6, 2023, “The Mutant” delivered an update about his injury status and his mindset as he embarks on the road to recovery.

After congratulating Derek Lunsford for becoming the 18th Mr. Olympia and the first two-division champion, Walker divulged more details about his health status. Not only did Walker suffer a serious hamstring injury in the leadup to the Olympia, but he also hurt his calf.

“I think it was Friday, we went and got the MRI done and it came back that I do have a partial hamstring tear and a grade 1 strain, little tear in my calf as well,” Walker said. “Nothing crazy, nothing too significant that would require surgery, so that’s great news. I’m very happy, literally very happy about that.”

Luckily for Walker, a grade 1 strain includes mild damage to individual muscle fibers that typically causes a small loss of strength and motion. On the other hand, a grade 3 strain involves a complete rupture of a muscle or tendon and usually requires surgery to reattach the damaged structure. So, even though Walker’s Olympia dream turned into a bit of a nightmare, he avoided the worst-case scenario.

The 2021 Arnold Classic winner noted that his doctors were “very impressed” with how quickly his body started the healing process. Despite dealing with a major setback at the most inopportune time, Walker displayed maturity and humility when discussing his injury.

“I am a firm believer that things happen for a reason, and I can’t seem to find what reason this,” Walker explained. “This was supposed to be a really special moment. I’m just holding on to that saying, things happen for a reason, for greater things to happen, so that’s what we are going to do.”

[Related: 2023 Amateur Olympia Results]

Although Walker can’t crush a leg workout anytime soon, he won’t let that stop him from preparing to compete again in 2024. Focused on training his upper body and testing his limits as he recovers, he vowed to return stronger for next year’s Olympia.

However, whether Walker will have an opportunity to participate in the sport’s tentpole contest is far less certain than his conviction about making a comeback. Due to changes to the Olympia Qualifying System, only the top three finishers from the Mr. Olympia contest automatically qualify for next year’s event.

With Walker already ruling himself out of the 2024 Arnold Classic, he will have to win an IFBB Pro League show to secure a spot in the Men’s Open lineup for the 2024 Olympia. Then again, perhaps promoters will grant “The Mutant” his request to receive a special invite to share the stage with the newly crowned champion and the rest of the Olympia hopefuls.

Featured Image: nick_walker39 / Instagram

The post Nick Walker Reveals He Suffered More Than Just a Torn Hamstring Before Bowing Out of 2023 Mr. Olympia  appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

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Although it may be associated with producing top-of-the-line squat racks and some of the industry’s best barbells, Eleiko isn’t resting on its laurels. On Monday, Nov. 6, 2023, one of the longest-running strength equipment companies announced it is officially adding a new product type to its well-established lineup: custom cable workout stations.

“The expansion into cables is a natural progression for Eleiko,” CEO Erik Blomberg said in a Nov. 6 press release. “From our roots in lifting and free weights to functional cable training, we aim to empower individuals to improve their performance in sports and life with meticulously engineered, precision-crafted strength equipment.”

Since breaking into the strength training space in 1957, Eleiko has become much more than a barbell manufacturer. With a wide range of fitness equipment that includes bumper plates, platforms, weight benches, dumbbells, and kettlebells, as well as lifting gear like belts, straps, and knee sleeves, the Swedish-based company commands widespread respect for producing high-quality products.

“Strength is fundamental to overall health and wellbeing, and we aim to help create premium strength training experiences and inspire more people to train,” Blomberg said.

Now, lifters worldwide can add to their home gym arsenal by designing a custom cable machine station suited to their needs. Customers and clients don’t have to worry about putting together a system alone, either. Not only does Eleiko offer a series of pre-built stations, but it also provides direct design assistance via an exclusive consultation call with one of its representatives.

[Related: Best Functional Trainers of 2023 for Small Spaces, With Smith Machines, and More]

For those who don’t want to go the custom route, the pre-build options include:

• Free-standing
• Wall-mounted
• Multi-function

Featuring knurled handles for optimal grip, Eleiko cable systems feature steel frames, aluminum pulleys, and fully protected weight stacks that minimize potential injury. Designed with athletes and coaches in mind, the one-to-one weight ratio on the stack allows lifters to see the actual resistance applied by the cable — a definite plus from a lifter’s perspective. No lubrication is required for shaft maintenance.

Whether looking to upgrade your current cable machine or ready to expand your home gym setup entirely, Eleiko’s latest innovation can help take workouts to the next level. While free weights offer unique benefits — such as helping build coordination and power — cable stations allow for constant tension on the muscles and the capacity to switch between exercises more efficiently.

Given Eleiko’s reputation for manufacturing elite gym equipment, there should be plenty of optimism surrounding its newest release. From lower chest flyes to seated rows, cable-based workouts supplied by a brand backed by nearly seven decades of design and production experience are possible.

Featured Image: Eleiko Sport / YouTube

The post Eleiko Sport is Now Making Cable Machines appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

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Through my years of personal training and coaching, I’ve trained clients using different rowers like the Hydrow Wave. I cannot begin to tell you how undervalued this type of machine can be. Using a rower provides a multitude of benefits, such as offering a full-body training stimulus and helping you expend more energy than walking on any of the best treadmills. Because this rowing machine closely resembles rowing on water, it shouldn’t be limited to use in the health and fitness industry — even athletes can benefit from training on it. 

The Breaking Muscle staff, which comprises certified personal trainers, strength and conditioning coaches, and health and fitness writers who have collectively reviewed hundreds of pieces of gym equipment, has completed dozens of workouts on the Hydrow Wave. In this Hydrow Wave review, we will discuss its top features and why it is one of the most uniquely built rowers currently offered. We will also compare it to other great rowing machines, including Hydrow’s original rower and the Concept2 rower. 

Key Takeaways

• The Hydrow Wave rower is built with electromagnetic resistance to help it feel the closest to rowing on water. It has smooth mechanics and is quieter than other types of rowers, like the Concept2 rower, which runs on air resistance.
• This compact rowing machine has great portability. You can transport and fit it into most workout spaces. This might make it one of the best rowing machines for at-home workouts. 
• The Hydrow Wave provides a ton of technological opportunities to elevate your workout from simply rowing to tackling instructor-led workouts on or off the machine.

Hydrow Wave Rower

4.0

• Dimensions: 80″ L x 19″ W x 43″ H
• Storage: Stores upright
• Resistance: Magnetic
• Weight capacity: 375 pounds
• Display: 16-inch HD touchscreen
• Available programming: Live and on-demand workouts, scenic rows

Check Price

Hydrow Wave Pros

• The Hydrow Wave is built with a more compact frame, and its dimensions are smaller than the original Hydrow rower by 30 percent. It is 80 inches long, 19 inches wide, and 43 inches tall and is lighter in weight to make it easier for portability.
• The Hydro Wave has a high weight capacity of 375 pounds. Other rowers, like the Peloton, only hold up to 300 pounds, which puts the Hydro Wave ahead of the game. 
• The Hydrow Wave is easy to store. You can collapse the screen and tilt the rower vertically, and then use a strap to anchor it to the wall using a wall mount you can purchase separately. This helps prevent the rower from tipping over and causing injury. 

Hydrow Wave Cons

• The Hydrow Wave rowing machine starts at around $1,695, which could be a steep price point for some. Hydrow offers financing for as low as $36 a month, but you would have to finance it for about 48 months, which would be a big commitment. 
• To get the most out of the 16-inch monitor, you need to buy the Hydrow subscription plan for around $44 a month. It is not required, but it does give you access to about 4,000 instructor-led workouts. If you don’t purchase this monthly membership, you can only use the rower in “just row” mode.  
• The warranty is free for only the first year. A two-year warranty will cost $150, and a three-year warranty is $200. In comparison, the Concept2 rower includes a five-year warranty for the frame and a two-year warranty for all other components.

Hydrow Wave Rating

Breaking Muscle’s product testers, which include CrossFit coaches, strength and conditioning coaches, and certified personal trainers, have tested nearly 20 rowers. We analyzed their build quality, portability, warranties, ergonomics, programming options, resistance settings, and the overall rowing experience. After using each rower for several workouts, we rated it according to our proprietary scoring methodology. Below is how the Hydrow Wave scored.

Hydrow Wave Overview

The Hydrow Wave is built for those seeking an upgraded rowing experience. With its electromagnetic resistance system, this top-tier rowing machine provides a smooth ride and a low-impact workout, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a noise-free exercise session. What sets the Hydrow Wave apart is its compact design, measuring at just 80 inches in length. This makes it an ideal option for individuals with limited workout space.

The Hydrow Wave offers access to a vast library of over 4,000 instructor-led workouts through a monthly subscription. These workouts provide engaging and dynamic fitness sessions tailored to your preferences. For example, if you’re short on time, you can take a quick but effective 10- or 20-minute rowing class.

If you’re looking to elevate your fitness routine with a quieter, space-efficient, and technologically advanced rowing machine, the Hydrow Wave could be the right rowing machine for you. In fact, after testing the Hydrow Wave, our product testers called it a true alternative to the Concept2 rower — but we’ll get more into that below.

Who Should Buy the Hydrow Wave

• Our product testers noted that this rower is great for those who want a quiet rowing machine. This machine is built with electromagnetic resistance and is smoother and quieter than a fan wheel rower. 
• This rower should work well for those who want the guidance of on-demand instructor-led workouts. With Hydrow’s monthly subscription, you have access to 4,000 workouts and counting.

Who Should Not Buy the Hydrow Wave

• People who are on a smaller budget might not want this rower. This rower comes in at $1,695, which is cheaper than the original Hyrdrow but also more expensive than the Concept2 rower.
• This rower might not be a great purchase for anyone who wants flexibility with where they work out. The Hydrow Wave has to be plugged into an outlet, which could limit where you place it in your home gym or workout space. 

Hydrow Wave In-Depth Review

Through our research and firsthand experience with the Hydrow Wave, the expert team at Breaking Muscle is here to provide you with all the insight you need to better understand this rowing device. The Hydrow Wave comes with some amazing features and a smaller footprint to help those with compact spaces keep up with their fitness routines. At a better price tag than its predecessor, the Hydrow Wave high-quality piece of cardio equipment that can cater to everybody, from beginners to advanced athletes. 

Price

The Hydrow Wave rowing machine costs around $1,695. This could be a tough purchase to make, especially for those on a limited budget. However, this is a more budget-friendly option compared to the original Hyrdrow, which costs just under $2,500. The difference in price is due to the Hydrow Wave being a smaller machine and having a smaller monitor, which I’ll discuss below. Concept2 offers their rowing machine at a price point under $1,000, but you won’t get the same technological features you’ll find on the Hydrow Wave.  

Materials, Build, and Construction Quality

The Hydrow Wave rowing machine consists of an aluminum and stainless steel frame with a flat anthracite polymer (a type of plastic) body, as well as high-quality polyester webbing that provides a much quieter ride. It is 80 inches long, 19 inches wide, and 43 inches tall. The dimensions make it smaller and more compact than the original Hydrow, which is 86 inches long, 25 inches wide, and 47 inches tall. At 102 pounds, the Hydrow Wave is also lighter than the original Hydrow, which weighs 147 pounds. 

The Hydrow Wave has the same weight capacity as the original Hydrow: 375 pounds. Considering it is a smaller and lighter machine, the fact that it can withstand the same weight proves it is tough and durable. 

Delivery and Assembly

Delivery for the Hydrow Wave is free. Assembly is easy and straightforward and can be done in about nine steps. Based on our research, most people should be able to put it together within 30 minutes.

According to the Hydrow website, professional assembly is an option as well. The assembly fee is around $249, not including taxes. 

Subscription Options

Our staff at Breaking Muscle was impressed with Hydrow’s subscription offerings. With the subscription, you get an immersive rowing experience via a library of guided workouts. The instructors include Olympians and professional rowing coaches, who row through scenic locations like the Thames in London. Our product testers loved the scenic views and called them beautiful. The list of workouts is also growing, and we think it will be hard to get bored with the class selection anytime soon.

The monthly subscription is $44 a month that gets you access to:

• A library of 4,000 live and on-demand rowing workouts that continues to grow
• Yoga, Pilates, and strength workouts
• Incentives through merchandise, badges, and certificates
• Multiple user profiles so multiple household members can use this rowing machine

When you buy the Hydrow Wave, you get a 30-day free trial. If you don’t like it, Hydrow will pick up the rower for free and provide a full refund (minus the professional assembly service if you paid for it).

If you want some of the perks of the subscription but don’t want to pay for the rower, you can look into the Hydrow app that grants you access to their yoga, pilates, and strength training workouts. You just won’t get access to their rowing classes. This app costs around $20 a month.

Included Workouts

There are no included workouts with the Hydrow Wave. Anyone who purchases the Hydrow Wave rower would need to purchase the subscription as well for a better rowing experience.

That said, without a subscription, you can use the “just row” mode. This mode gives you access to:

• Adjustable drag and resistance settings
• On-screen rowing metrics
• Bluetooth connection for heart rate monitors
• “Hydrow 101” videos to get you started

Ergonomics

Our product testers noted that the seat is comfortable, which is a huge deal for a rower. The handles have a smooth texture that our testers also found comfortable, but they noted that it is tough to maintain your grip once you start sweating.

The pedals are 13 inches long, so they should accommodate most foot sizes. We also liked the slightly angled handlebar, which helped keep our wrists comfortable during our workouts.

Another important thing to discuss is the length. The Hydrow Wave is 80 inches long overall (six inches shorter than the original) with a 52-inch track length. The track is long enough to accommodate a 36-inch inseam, the equivalent of someone who is about 6’3.

Bluetooth Connectivity

For Bluetooth connection, Hydrow recommends WiFi. There is an option for an ethernet connection as well. Smart devices like the iPhone, Apple watch, speakers, headphones, and heart rate monitors can connect to the Hydrow.

To measure your progress on the Hydrow Wave, you can also use the Strava app. This app turns every iPhone and Android device into a sophisticated tracking tool that can also be linked to your smart device and Apple watch. 

Heart Rate Monitoring

The Hydrow Wave doesn’t provide a heart rate monitor, but you can link your own heart rate monitor through Bluetooth to track your metrics. This is a great way to measure your effort and monitor your heart rate effectively and accurately. 

Display and Stat Tracking

The 16-inch touchscreen provides a ton of stats for tracking your workout. This display will show your heart rate in beats per minute (if you link a heart rate monitor), calories burned, distance traveled, strokes per minute, and average strokes per 500 meters to help measure your power output. The harder you row, the higher this number becomes to give you some indication of your intensity. This will also help quantify your calories burned based on power output.

Hydrow Wave Rower Specs

Rower Type

The Hydrow Wave rower uses electromagnetic resistance, which makes it a much quieter option than a flywheel rowing machine like the Concept2 rower. This could be a massive benefit if you do not want a disruptive workout session, especially if you live with other people. I am a parent of three children and I must say, the idea of working out with minimal noise is appealing. My children won’t wake up, and I can continue to work on my own health and fitness. 

Overall Dimensions

The Hydrow Wave is 80 inches long, 19 inches wide, and 43 inches high. This is a smaller rower compared to the original Hydrow, which is 86 inches long, 25 inches wide, and 47 inches high. These dimensions help make it a great piece of home gym equipment for smaller spaces. 

Track Length

The track length, or the amount of space you have to extend your legs fully, of the Hydrow Wave is 52 inches. In comparison, the Concept2 rower’s track length is 54 inches. Both rowers are good options for tall athletes. However, the Concept2 rower may be a better choice for those over 6’4 or 6’5.

Weight Capacity

The weight capacity of this rowing machine is 375 pounds, which is the same weight capacity as the original Hydrow. Even though this rower is smaller than the original model Hydrow, the fact it has the same weight capacity speaks volumes about its strength and durability. 

Resistance Levels

The Hydrow Wave provides various intensities of computer-controlled resistance, from levels 50 to 300. It automatically adjusts based on how hard you’re working.

The Hydrow rowing machine offers a default drag setting of 104, aimed at simulating the experience of rowing on water, which is recommended for most users. It’s important to know that the drag setting is not a generic difficulty setting, and increasing resistance is not always an effective way to improve your rowing workout. Too much resistance could cause you to use non-ideal rowing form that could be detrimental to your workout. 

Electrical Requirements

The Hydrow Wave rower must be plugged into a 110v outlet. This may limit where you’re able to put it, as you must always ensure you have an outlet nearby. It doesn’t offer as much flexibility as battery-operated rowers, like the Concept2.

Noise Level

This rower is built with electromagnetic resistance, which provides a smoother and quieter rowing experience than air rowers like the Concept2. 

Portability

The Hydrow Wave has roller wheels at the front of the machine. It weighs just above 100 pounds, and rolling it on a carpet could be a lot harder than someone with wood floors.

Warranty

Hydrow offers a one-year home use warranty on the Wave rower for free. If you want a two-year warranty, it will cost $150. If you want a three-year warranty, it will cost $200. 

Hydrow Wave vs. Concept2

One of the main differences between the Hydrow Wave and Concept2 rower is that the Hydrow Wave uses electromagnetic resistance while the Concept2 uses a fan wheel to provide air resistance. Another big difference is the price. The Concept2 costs just under $1,000, while the Hydrow Wave costs around $1,695.

The price difference can be largely attributed to the technological capabilities of each machine. The Concept2 has a smaller five-inch monitor that provides basic metrics and can’t provide on-demand workouts like the Hydrow Wave can. However, both rowers provide Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to connect to heart rate monitors and other devices seamlessly. 

Lastly, the Concept2 rower has a weight capacity of 500 pounds, whereas the Hydrow Wave has a weight capacity of 375 pounds.

Concept2 RowErg

4.5

• Frame is made of heavy-duty aluminum
• Ergonomic handlebar and seat
• PM5 monitor comes with Bluetooth capabilities
• Accomodates users up to 6’6 and 500 pounds
• Comes with a limited five-year warranty

Check Price

Hydrow Wave vs. Peloton

The Hydrow Wave and Peloton rower have some similarities, one of them being their high-definition touch screens. The 23.8-inch Peloton screen is bigger than the Hydrow Wave’s 16-inch screen though. The Peloton screen can also swivel, whereas the Hydrow Wave is fixed. The swivel of the Peloton screen allows you to do workouts off the rower and be able to easily view the monitor. 

Both the Hydrow Wave and Peloton provide subscriptions for thousands of on-demand instructor-led workouts, and both have a similar price point between $42 to $44.  

While the Hydrow Wave has a weight capacity of 375 pounds, the Peloton rower has a lower weight capacity of 300 pounds. The Hydrow Wave is only 80 inches long while the Peloton rower is 94 inches in length. Depending on your body size, this could also indicate which of the rowers you would purchase. 

The Hydrow Wave comes in at about $1,695. The Peloton is just under $3,000, making the Hydrow Wave a much more budget-friendly choice.

Peloton Rower

4.0

• Dimensions: 7’10” L x 24” W
• Storage: Stores upright with the Upright Wall Anchor (included with purchase)
• Resistance: Electronically controlled
• Weight capacity: 300 pounds
• Display: 23.8-inch 1080p HD touchscreen
• Available programming: Live and on-demand workouts, scenic rows

Check Price

Hydrow Wave vs. Aviron

The Aviron is a unique rower compared to the Hydrow Wave. It is a dual air and electromagnetic resistance rower that can provide a better rowing experience. Both the Hydrow Wave and Aviron provide high-definition monitors through which you can follow guided workouts. However, the Aviron’s monitor is the bigger of the two, coming in at 22 inches. 

For guided on-demand workouts on the Aviron, an all-access membership costs either $24 a month if you pay annually (which adds up to $288 upfront), or $29 per month if you pay monthly. This membership gives you access to 500 workouts, which is less than Hydrow Wave’s 4,000 workouts. But Aviron also provides streaming services, games, and other incentives.

The Aviron is only four inches longer than the Hydrow Wave. It weighs 114 pounds, slightly heavier than the Hydrow Wave which is 102 pounds. The Aviron can hold up to 500 pounds, which is much more than Hydrow Wave’s 375-pound weight capacity. The Aviron is around $2,199, about $500 more expensive than the Hydrow Wave. 

Aviron Impact Series Rower

4.3

• Dimensions: 97” L x 21” W x 43” H
• Storage: Folds in half for storage
• Resistance: Air and magnetic
• Weight capacity: 397 pounds
• Display: 22-inch HD touchscreen
• Available programming: Coached workouts, scenic rows, games, virtual competitions

Check Price

Hydrow Wave Customer Reviews

On Amazon, the Hydrow Wave has a strong rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars. Reviewers who left positive marks noted that the machine is smooth, perfectly engineered, and as quiet as described. However, many consumers felt the rower was too expensive. 

On TrustPilot, Hydrow had a higher rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars. There weren’t many concerns about the rower itself. The only concern was with Hydrow’s customer service. The user noted that they couldn’t figure out a step and called customer service, but couldn’t get in touch with anyone. They had to reach out via email instead, so they couldn’t get the immediate assistance they were hoping for.

On Hydrow’s website, reviewers loved the size and portability of the Hydrow Wave. They loved how lightweight and easy it was to assemble. They were thrilled that Hydrow provided a cheaper and more compact version of the original Hydrow for customers with smaller workout spaces. 

Final Verdict: Is the Hydrow Wave Worth It?

After testing the Hydrow Wave, our product testers called it a true alternative to the Concept2 rower. The Hydrow Wave rowing machine offers a unique and immersive rowing experience, with electromagnetic resistance that closely replicates the feel of rowing on water. While the price point of about $1,695 may be steep for some, the investment is justified by the exceptional build quality, smooth mechanics, and the option to finance it at $36 per month. 

With a subscription plan at $44 per month, you gain access to a vast library of 4,000 workouts. The subscription makes it an attractive option if you seek on-demand instructor-led sessions. However, be aware of the additional cost of the anchor system required for vertical storage. Also, consider whether you want to invest in the subscription for the full range of features. The Hydrow Wave is an excellent choice for those who value a quiet, space-efficient, and technologically advanced rowing machine, particularly if they have a compact workout space and a budget that accommodates its price.

FAQs

The post Hydrow Wave Review (2023): A Certified Personal Trainer’s Honest Thoughts appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

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Unlike most of his peers in the Men’s Open division, Derek Lunsford entered the 2023 Mr. Olympia weekend having already experienced the thrill of having a first-place medal put around his neck at the biggest bodybuilding show of the year.

Two years removed from capturing the 212 Olympia title in Orlando, FL, Lunsford made history by becoming the first two-division champion in the history of the Mr. Olympia contest. The USA native emerged victorious from a crop of elite competitors headlined by defending champion Hadi Choopan and 2023 Arnold Classic winner Samson Dauda.

[Related: 2023 Mr. Olympia Results: Complete Coverage and Live Updates]

The battle for the prestigious Sandow Trophy started Friday during the prejudging round of the 59th edition of the prestigious contest. Unsurprisingly, Lunsford and Choopan — who both train with legendary coach Hany Rambod — quickly separated themselves from the rest of the pack with their elite conditioning and sheer amount of muscle mass.

Dauda’s sizable frame and imposing physique also stood out during the prejudging phase. And despite speculation about potentially bowing out due to health issues, 2019 Mr. Olympia Brandon Curry showed well during his latest attempt to climb back to the top of the Men’s Open mountain.

Callout One

• Samson Dauda
• Andrew Jacked
• Hadi Choopan
• Derek Lunsford
• Brandon Curry
• Hunter Labrada

Callout Two

• Hassan Mostafa
• Regan Grimes
• Michal Krizanek
• Tonio Burton
• Charles Griffen
• Andrea Presti

Callout Three

• Phil Clahar
• Theo Leguerrier
• Roman Friz
• Justin Shier

Callout Four

• Andrew Jacked
• Brandon Curry
• Michal Krizanek
• Hunter Labrada

Callout Five

• Hadi Choopan
• Derek Lunsford
• Samson Dauda

The final callout featured a dramatic three-person pose-off between Choopan, Lunsford, and Dauda. All three competitors put on terrific showings, though Dauda appeared to tire a bit toward the end. There was still plenty of anticipation about whether Lunsford could unseat Choopan, who displayed plenty of energy while interacting with the crowd during his routine.

Lunsford appeared to have some luck on his side when he earned the nod from the fans by winning the 2023 People’s Champion title and belt. Not long after taking home the fan-voted award, the 2022 Mr. Olympia runner-up etched his place in bodybuilding history books by officially earning the 2023 Mr. Olympia title and $400,000.

2023 Mr. Olympia Results

Here’s how the top five shook out for the 2023 Mr. Olympia contest, along with the prize purse by position.

1. Derek Lunsford — $400,000
2. Hadi Choopan — $175,000
3. Samson Dauda — $100,000
4. Brandon Curry — $40,000
5. Andrew Jacked — $35,000

[Related: Chris Bumstead Claims Fifth Consecutive Classic Physique Championship at 2023 Mr. Olympia]

Proving he’s capable of doing whatever’s necessary to get his body into championship shape, Derek Lunsford deserves tremendous credit for becoming the 18th Mr. Olympia. It took a tremendous amount of dedication, diligent dieting, and intense training to construct a physique that convinced the judges to put Choopan in the No. 2 spot in 2023.

Plus, the fact Lunsford accomplished that feat just two years after he asserted his dominance in an entirely different division speaks volumes about his genetic gifts, work ethic, and mindset.

Featured Image: mrolympiallc / Instagram

The post Derek Lunsford Becomes the First Two-Division Champion at the 2023 Mr. Olympia appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

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Chris Bumstead confirmed he’s still at the top of his class by claiming his fifth consecutive Classic Physique title at the 2023 Mr. Olympia contest on Nov. 4, 2023.

The Canadian native put on a dominant showing in front of the judges and fans inside the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, FL, cementing his case as one of the greatest bodybuilders of his generation.

[Related: 2023 Amateur Olympia Results]

Bumstead’s well-proportioned physique and impressive posing routines helped him edge out an impressive field of Classic Physique competitors that featured strong performances from Terrence Ruffin and two-time Classic Physique Olympia champion (2017-2018) Breon Ansley. Once all the athletes showcased their sculpted shoulders, defined abdominals, and shredded backs, the judges made their first decision:

Callout One

• Jae Hun Park
• Wesley Vissers
• Michael Daboul
• Terrence Ruffin
• Mike Sommerfeld
• Vahid Badpei

Callout Two

• Breon Ansley
• Urs Kalecinski
• Roman Rocha Quieroz
• Chris Bumstead

To no one’s surprise, the final callout saw a familiar face square off in an epic posing battle against Bumstead: Ramon Rocha Quieroz. Coming off a huge victory at the 2023 Arnold Classic, he looked fantastic on the Olympia stage, boasting a balanced physique with no apparent weaknesses. Ultimately, though, the 2022 Olympia runner-up fell short for the second straight year in his quest to unseat Bumstead from his throne.

2023 Classic Physique Olympia Results

Here’s how the top five shook out in the 2023 Classic Physique Olympia division:

1. Chris Bumstead – $50,000
2. Ramon Rocha Querioz — $20,000
3. Urs Kelecinski — $12,000
4. Breon Ansley — $7,000
5. Terrence Ruffin — $6,000

[Related: Major Change to Mr. Olympia Qualification System Will Have Immediate Impact on 2023 Contest]

Speaking with Bob Circherillo on stage after his latest Olympia victory, Bumstead revealed that he tore his lat 10 weeks out from the biggest show of the year. Although he initially had doubts about whether he could overcome the setback, he credited the support of his fiancee, as well as legendary trainer Hany Rambod, for helping him maintain a strong mindset throughout his journey to the Olympia.

Four weeks after suffering his lat injury, Bumstead returned to the gym for his first back workout. Just like he did after getting hurt, he wept.

However, the decorated champion said he shed tears for a much different reason.

“I realized I would not have felt that much joy and gratitude if I had quit,” Bumstead said.

Featured Image: mrolympiallc / Instagram

The post Chris Bumstead Claims Fifth Consecutive Classic Physique Championship at 2023 Mr. Olympia appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

http://www.marksdailyapple.com/

Research of the Week

Lower EPA/AA ratio, higher risk of coronary plaque rupture.

Linoleic acid increases pediatric asthma.

Psychosis patients have lower brain creatine and choline.

Seaweed intake protects against metabolic syndrome in genetically vulnerable Koreans.

Obese kids need more omega-3s and antioxidants.

New Primal Kitchen Podcasts

Primal Kitchen Podcast: The Benefits of Medical Marijuana and Psychedelics

Primal Health Coach Radio: Brian Gryn

Media, Schmedia

Ozempic’s effect on food sales.

Layoffs at Beyond Meat.

Interesting Blog Posts

Golfers are using psychedelics.

Social Notes

Should you look at the scale every day?

Everything Else

Genetic profile of the Medieval Rus.

Insulin resistance increases all-cause mortality.

Things I’m Up to and Interested In

Reminder: Malnutrition can be over or undernutrition.

Not surprised: Teens with knee pain who switch to barefoot shoes experience less pain.

Where have I heard this before?: Two meals a day for type 2 diabetics.

Surprising: Blue light reactivates wound healing.

Every time: Elevated glucose and triglycerides linked to depression.

Question I’m Asking

How has minimalist footwear helped (or hindered) your lower body pain?

Recipe Corner

• Chinese garlic green beans.
• Basic sauteed mushrooms.

Time Capsule

One year ago (Oct 28 – Nov 3)

• The Past, Present, and Future of the Primal Mission—What we’re doing.
• Active Recovery Workouts—Stay active to recover.

Comment of the Week

“Mark is 100% correct.
I’m a doctor and I can assure anyone who might be concerned:

Acquired diabetes (as opposed to being born with Type 1 diabetes), does NOT happen secretly or suddenly like cancer might. (Cancer of the pancreas – the insulin producing organ, might suddenly cause diabetes, but that is cancer).

Acquired type 2 diabetes is very definitely something one can look at day by day and know if one is heading towards it or away from it.
Weight loss, lowered blood sugar levels, lower triglycerides, better exercise tolerance and fitness, are all easy, everyday indications that one is reducing the chances of diabetes, not increasing it.

A glucometer purchased cheaply at a drugstore can give great everyday data re our blood sugar response to food and meals, if it’s a real concern. (Just be sure to read about the normals and parameters so the results can be interpreted correctly).

If one is heading towards diabetes, as evidenced by higher blood sugars, significant weight gain, higher triglycerides, etc, then stopping all red meat is NOT going to help that situation.
Increasing exercise, eliminating all sweeteners and simple carbs, and decreasing caloric intake, WILL improve one’s situation and reverse the trend. It really is that simple for acquired type 2 diabetes.

It is a travesty the way the “survey” studies are taken and discussed the same as real, original, double blind experiments with actual measurements and data.

The problem is the average person doesn’t know the difference and can’t really be expected to sit down and learn that while raising a family and working two jobs.

I would expect more of journalists though, because it’s their job and responsibility to report accurately.
It’s so irresponsible what they are doing here.

And I suspect the vegan mega-industries know that and are taking full advantage. I wouldn’t put it past them to even be paying journalists to report the way they do.
These corporations can’t wait to eliminate real meat and take the markets and profits from substituting fake, manufactured, chemical-filled, proteins.
Grrrrr :^{.”

-Nice message.

The post New and Noteworthy: What I Read This Week—Edition 244 appeared first on Mark’s Daily Apple.