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Few bodybuilders have had as stellar debut years as Nick “The Mutant” Walker during the 2021 season. He won the 2021 New York Pro and Arnold Classic. Then, to put a cherry on top of his achievements, the 28-year-old took home fifth place in the Men’s Open at the 2021 Mr. Olympia. Now, the rising International Federation of Bodybuilding and Fitness (IFBB) star is aiming even higher. 

On August 13, 2022, Walker appeared on the Fouad Abiad Media YouTube channel to discuss the 2022 Olympia contest. Among the more notable tidbits, Walker discussed his chances at potentially dethroning reigning two-time Mr. Olympia Mamdouh “Big Ramy” Elssbiay and how Walker feels about the contest roughly four months out. Check it out below:

[Related: How to Do the Goblet Squat for Lower Body Size and Mobility]

In just the second year of his IFBB Pro League career, Walker has centered his energy exclusively on competing in the 2022 Mr. Olympia. Naturally, as Big Ramy is the reigning champion, any time he shares an update on his training, it will likely draw some attention from peers like Walker. 

Walker candidly broke down how he felt about a recent massive physique check-in from Big Ramy, where the Egyptian said he weighed 336 pounds. 

“Okay, well, he looks really [expletive] good,” Walker said. “He didn’t train last year that much, and then he showed up at the Olympia not as good as the year before. Now, it seems to me that he’s staying very consistent. If he comes in shredded, he’s probably going to win again. “If he comes in even slightly off, he can be open to anyone.”

When he continued, Walker seemingly left the door open to potentially toppling Big Ramy in his overall reaction. Walker feels great about his chances, given his current physique and recent strength training feats — he weighed 295 pounds in early June 2022, but it appears he has also eclipsed 300 pounds.

“Yeah, I’m in pretty good shape for being 300 [pounds],” Walker said. “Listen, if this is going to go how I think it’s going to go, it’s going to be a good battle between me and [Big Ramy].” 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Nick “the Mutant” Walker (@nick_walker39)

[Related: The Best Sled Workouts for Muscle, Strength, Fat Loss, and Recovery]

A Tall Order

Big Ramy will not be the only elite bodybuilder who Walker has to contend with in mid-December. There’s former Mr. Olympia winner Brandon Curry (2019), usual podium finisher Hadi Choopan, and fellow young rising star Hunter Labrada — who finished just ahead of Walker in fourth place at the 2021 Mr. Olympia. 

Overall, the Men’s Open division is stacked. To win the Sandow trophy, Walker has a challenging task ahead of him. Then again, so do his fellow competitors. 

The 2022 Mr. Olympia will take place on December 16-18 in Las Vegas, NV. 

Featured image: @nick_walker39 on Instagram

The post Nick Walker Believes He Can Dethrone Big Ramy at the 2022 Mr. Olympia appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

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On August 15, 2022, during a training session posted to Instagram, powerlifter Joe Sullivan completed a 372.4-kilogram (821-pound) raw back squat. In a demonstration of Sullivan’s strength progress in recent years, the figure is just one pound off Sullivan’s former world record in the 100-kilogram division from 2020.

Perhaps even more impressively, it’s just 7.6 kilograms (16.7 pounds) off the current 100-kilogram raw world record — which Sullivan still possesses. The athlete notched that record with a 380-kilogram (837.7-pound) squat at the 2021 World Raw Powerlifting Federation (WRPF) The Bucked Up Showdown.

Sullivan wore a lifting belt, lifting straps, and knee sleeves to achieve this latest showcase of his leg strength. Check it out below:

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Joe Sullivan (@joesullivan_aod)

[Related: How to Do the Bulgarian Split Squat for Leg Size, Strength, and Mobility]

According to the caption in Sullivan’s Instagram post, this squat training is part of his preparation for the upcoming 2022 United States Powerlifting Association (USPA) Pro Raw Championships. That contest will take place on September 24 in Kansas City, MO. 

As Sullivan explains, he’s excited to reach new heights as a world-class powerlifter. 

“It’s always a matter of execution, and there are many more days between now and the USPA Pro meet on September 24, but I’m in a great position to push that all-time world record higher and solidify my place at the table.”

History in Context

Sullivan has not competed in an official meet since the 2021 WRPF The Bucked Up Showdown last September. Notably, in recent months, the athlete went for the 525-pound squat AMRAP (as many reps as possible) — inspired by 1980 Mr. Universe and bodybuilding legend Tom Platz. (Note: Sullivan’s attempt in early June 2022 fell just short at 24 reps). 

Still, roughly a year later, it appears Sullivan gained more leg power and strength as he prepares to extend his world record squat. For context, here’s how his current raw world record in the 100-kilogram division compares to his peers in the same category:

All-Time Heaviest Raw Squats | Men’s 100KG

1. Joe Sullivan — 380 kilograms (837.7 pounds) | 2021 WRPF The Showdown
2. Amit Sapir — 372.5 kilograms (821.2 pounds) |2015 United Powerlifting Association (UPA) Power Weekend
3. Kevin Oak — 367.5 kilograms (810.2 pounds) | 2016 Southern Powerlifting Federation (SPF) Reebok Record Breakers

At the time of this writing, that means Sullivan holds a 7.5-kilogram (16.5-pound) lead over the next best competitor. Should he successfully break his record next month, that gap may only widen. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Joe Sullivan (@joesullivan_aod)

[Related: The Best Sled Workouts for Muscle, Strength, Fat Loss, and Recovery]

A Sterling Resume

To date, Sullivan has won gold in 12 of 18 powerlifting meets during his career. He has missed the podium on just four occasions. With this stellar precedent in mind, it might not be outlandish to suggest excellent upcoming individual results (potentially including a new world record) at his forthcoming competition. 

The 2022 USPA Pro Raw Championships will occur on September 24 in Kansas City, MO. 

Featured image: @joesullivan_aod on Instagram

The post Check Out Powerlifter Joe Sullivan Cruising Through a 372.4-Kilogram (821-Pound) Squat appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

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Apple cider vinegar is purported to have a number of impressive benefits. Chief among these is that apple cider vinegar can help you lose weight—allegedly. As I wrote previously, much of the hype around apple cider vinegar benefits is unsubstantiated by the available science. It has some provocative effects on blood sugar and insulin sensitivity that are not to be discounted, but otherwise, apple cider vinegar is not the miracle tonic some would have you believe.

I didn’t cover the question of whether apple cider vinegar can help you lose weight, though, so I’ll dig into that question today. I wouldn’t blame you for being skeptical. You should be. Losing weight is a notorious struggle, especially if one follows conventional diet advice. If a cheap, readily available product could prompt dramatic weight loss, everyone would know about it. Apple cider vinegar would no longer be cheap and readily available because it would be the hottest commodity around.

So I think we all know that it’s not going to “melt the fat away” or any such nonsense. I’m more interested in whether it’s something you could add on top of an otherwise healthy diet and lifestyle to give you a small leg up. And before you roll your eyes and accuse me of buying into some supermarket tabloid headline—One Secret Trick for Losing Weight without Even Trying!—there are some potentially interesting metabolic reasons to think that apple cider vinegar might do something here.

Apple Cider Vinegar for Weight Loss

If certain wellness influencers are to be believed, you can just drink apple cider vinegar or chomp down apple cider vinegar gummies or pills and watch the scale drop. Some people even swear that you can lose weight by putting apple cider vinegar on your feet. No, I’m not kidding.

You’ll be shocked to learn that these claims are overblown. They’re based on only two human studies (and a handful of rat studies that are suggestive but… still rats). In one, researchers put 44 adults on a low-calorie diet for 12 weeks.¹ Half the participants also drank two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar each day. The vinegar group lost 4 pounds on average, while the control group lost 2.3 pounds. That’s enough of a difference to be statistically significant, but it’s far from earth-shattering, especially when you consider that these folks dieted for three months to achieve such meager weight loss.

In the other study, 155 Japanese adults with BMIs between 25 and 30 drank zero, one, or two tablespoons of apple vinegar every day for 12 weeks.² The vinegar drinkers ended up losing more body fat, both subcutaneous and the all-important visceral fat, compared to the no-vinegar control group. Weight loss was once again pretty modest: the low-dose (one tablespoon group) lost 2.6 pounds and 1.4 centimeters off their waists in 12 weeks, while the high-dose (two tablespoons) lost 3.7 pounds and 1.9 centimeters.

That’s it. I’d pay it little mind except in the Japanese study, the placebo (no vinegar) group gained a pound, while the vinegar groups both lost weight—even though they made no changes to their diets. All three groups ingested the same number of calories and the same amount of carbohydrates (around 300 grams per day) throughout the study.

That at least piques my interest. I’m not suggesting that everyone who is trying to lose weight should start drinking apple cider vinegar, but it does make me want to dig deeper simply for curiosity’s sake.

Why Apple Cider Vinegar Could Promote Weight Loss

Apple cider vinegar exerts a wide range of effects in the human body that, while not a panacea for weight loss, are pretty interesting. More specifically, the acetic acid in the vinegar has been widely studied, and scientists have developed a number of conjectures about what it does. To name a few:

Satiety: Participants in the first study described above had lower appetite when they drank vinegar. Other studies have found the same.³ The generally accepted explanation is that vinegar delays gastric emptying, meaning that food sits in your stomach for longer.⁴ The alternative, less pleasant, explanation is that vinegar makes you feel nauseous, so you don’t want to eat anything.⁵

AMPK activation: AMPK is part of the body’s energy barometer, helping the brain gauge how much energy you have on board and adjusting energy usage (fat burning versus fat storage, for example) and hunger accordingly. Greater AMPK activation can also suppress appetite and improve insulin sensitivity.⁶

Fat browning: Adipose tissue isn’t just the white globs you probably picture when you think of fat. Some is brown fat, so named because the mitochondria-rich cells take on a brown hue. Compared to white fat, brown fat is more metabolically active, meaning it burns more calories than white fat. When you consume acetic acid, it breaks down to acetate, and acetate has been shown to promote the “browning” of adipose tissue.⁷ This alone wouldn’t lead to massive weight loss, but its effects are non-zero.

Better blood sugar regulation and insulin sensitivity: Apple cider vinegar can help you get off the blood sugar spike-and-crash roller coaster that contributes to hunger and cravings.⁸

Reduced inflammation: Chronic inflammation plays a role in insulin resistance and obesity, whether as a cause or effect. Probably both. Acetate may have an anti-inflammatory effect by reducing gut permeability.⁹

How to Use Apple Cider Vinegar

Again, I’m not saying anyone should start drinking apple cider vinegar for weight loss or any other reason, although it’s potentially interesting for glycemic control and possibly as an appetite suppressant. If you want to give it a shot, though, start by adding a tablespoon or two of apple cider vinegar to a glass of water and drink it before a meal. (Swish with plain water after to get any lingering acid off your teeth.) That’s what the typical study protocol is at least. As for whether that’s the best or only way to achieve the benefits, I couldn’t say.

Don’t bother with the foot baths.

What about apple cider vinegar gummies or pills? It’s unclear how they stack up. One small study compared liquid vinegar with vinegar pills containing comparable amounts of acetic acid, and the pills were less effective at managing postprandial blood sugar spikes.¹⁰ That was only 12 participants, so it doesn’t necessarily mean the book is closed on pills or gummies, but it’s all we have to go on. The supplements are also considerably more expensive than grabbing a bottle of vinegar on your next grocery run.

Conclusion

The takeaway here is that apple cider vinegar (or acetic acid) has some interesting properties that lend it a measure of credence as a healthy addition to your diet. As someone who’s perpetually fascinated by the intricacies of the human body, I’ve enjoyed exploring the research here, but I didn’t come away believing that apple cider vinegar is likely to do anything more than give you a nudge in the right direction.

For folks who struggle to manage blood sugar or appetite, working apple cider vinegar into their diets via marinades or salad dressings, or even in a pre-dinner glass of water, probably couldn’t hurt. As a wellness trend, it’s not the silliest by far. Just temper your expectations.

The post Apple Cider Vinegar for Weight Loss appeared first on Mark’s Daily Apple.

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On August 12, strongman Oleksii Novikov completed a 549-kilogram (1,210-pound) Hummer Tire Deadlift during the 2022 Shaw Classic in Loveland, CO. Not only did the staggering pull give Novikov the individual event win, but it also gave him the new World Record by 3.62 kilograms (eight pounds).

The Ukrainian athlete used a lifting belt and lifting straps to help him achieve the record. He may have also worn a lifting suit, but it is unclear if he wore that under his competitive outfit. Novikov eventually finished fourth overall to two-time defending champion Trey Mitchell, runner-up Brian Shaw, and bronze medalist Mitchell Hooper. 

J.F. Caron held the previous World Record with his Hummer Tire Deadlift of 545 kilograms (1,202 pounds) at the 2020 Shaw Classic. Check out a clip of Novikov’s staggering feat below, courtesy of the Instagram profile of Julian Howard (@worldsstrongestfan):

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Julian Howard (@worldsstrongestfan)

[Related: How to Do the Bulgarian Split Squat for Leg Size, Strength, and Mobility]

The Hummer Tire Deadlift was the first event of the 2022 Shaw Classic. It is considered a partial deadlift in strongman contests, meaning it is an alternative to a partial deadlift or silver dollar deadlift event.

Competition organizer Brian Shaw has featured the Hummer Tire deadlift at all three editions of the Shaw Classic. It was previously a staple event at the annual Arnold Strongman Classic. The diameter of the tires and flex of the bar as an athlete attempts to lock out their weight can make it a challenge.

As a max one-rep event, whichever athlete pulled the most weight on the Hummer Tire Deadlift was the victor. With his pull of 549 kilograms (1,210 pounds), Novikov paced ahead of the entire field, including second-place finisher Gabriel Peña, by an astonishing 27 kilograms (59.5 pounds).

Here are the complete results of the Hummer Tire Deadlift from the 2022 Shaw Classic:

2022 Shaw Classic | Hummer Tire Deadlift Results

1. Oleksii Novikov — 549 kilograms (1,210.3 pounds) | New World Record
2. Gabriel Peña — 522 kilograms (1,150.8 pounds)
3. Trey Mitchell — 499 kilograms (1,100.1 pounds)
4. Mitchell Hooper — 476 kilograms (1,049.4 pounds) | Tied for fifth
5. Bobby Thompson — 476 kilograms(1,049.4 pounds) | Tied for fifth
6. Konstantine Janashia — 476 kilograms | Tied for fifth
7. Brain Shaw—  431 kilograms (950.1 pounds) | Tied for seventh
8. Kevin Faires — 431 kilograms (950.1 pounds) | Tied for seventh
9. Evan Singleton — 408 kilograms (899.5 pounds)
10. Aivars Smaukstelis — 408 kilograms (899.5 pounds) | Tied for 10th
11. Gabriel Rheaume — 408 kilograms (899.5 pounds) | Tied for 10th
12. Žydrūnas Savickas — 408 kilograms (899.5 pounds) | Tied for 10th
13. Jerry Pritchett — 408 kilograms (899.5 pounds) | Tied for 10th
14. Maxime Boudreault — No attempt
15. Luke Stoltman — No attempt

Notably, Novikov and Peña were the only two competitors to pull at least 500 kilograms (1,102.3 pounds) successfully.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Oleksii Novikov (@novikov_strong_wsm)

[Related: How to Do the Goblet Squat for Lower Body Size and Mobility]

A Productive Run

Novikov’s new World Record on the Hummer Tire Deadlift is just the latest in a recently productive stretch for the proficient strongman.

Among the more noteworthy achievements, the 26-year-old won his first Europe’s Strongest Man (ESM) title in April 2022. In late May 2022, he took home third place in the 2022 World’s Strongest Man (WSM) — a title he won in 2020. Then, in early July 2022, the Ukrainian competitor made it back-to-back wins at the Giants Live Strongman Classic. Per Strongman Archives, Novikov has stood on a podium in 12 straight competitions dating back to July 2021. 

At this point, regardless of contest or obstacle, it seems evident that Novikov will usually bring excellence to the table. 

Featured image: @worldsstrongestfan on Instagram

The post Oleksii Novikov Sets New Hummer Tire Deadlift World Record of 549 Kilograms (1,210 Pounds) appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

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Trey Mitchell is the champion of the 2022 Shaw Classic. On Aug. 13-14, 2022, the American strongman successfully made it back-to-back years (2021-22) as the winner of the strength contest. 

Joining Mitchell on the podium in Loveland, CO were competition organizer Brian Shaw and Mitchell Hooper in second and third place, respectively. It is Shaw’s second consecutive finish in second place after winning the inaugural contest in 2020. Meanwhile, after solid performances in the Giants Live Strongman Classic and Giants Live World Open, Hooper continues an impressive string of performances with a third straight podium result in a major strongman competition. 

Here are the final standings from this year’s Shaw Classic:

2022 Shaw Classic Results

1. Trey Mitchell — 100.5 points | Repeat Champion (2021-2022)
2. Brian Shaw — 99.5 points
3. Mitchell Hooper — 95 points
4. Oleksii Novikov — 79 points
5. Maxime Boudreault — 69.5 points
6. Kevin Faires — 68 points
7. Aivars Smaukstelis — 67 points
8. Evan Singleton — 60.5 points
9. Konstantine Janashia — 52 points
10. Žydrūnas Savickas — 48.5 points
11. Bobby Thompson — 42 points (withdrew)
12. Gabriel Peña — 39 points
13. Gabriel Rheaume — 36.5 points
14. Jerry Pritchett — 28 points
15. Luke Stoltman — One point (withdrew)

Check out an event-by-event breakdown below.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Trey Mitchell (@berserkerlifter)

[Related: The Best Sled Workouts for Muscle, Strength, Fat Loss, and Recovery]

Event Breakdown

Here’s a short recap of how the respective strongmen fared in each of the 2022 Shaw Classic’s events. 

Hummer Tire Deadlift

The Hummer Tire Deadlift opened the contest. During this max rep event, former 2020 World’s Strongest Man (WSM) Champion Oleksii Novikov successfully pulled 549 kilograms (1,210 pounds) to win and set a new World Record. Gabriel Peña followed at 522 kilograms (1,150.8 pounds) and was the only other athlete to deadlift at least 500 kilograms. A solid 499 kilograms (1,100.1 pounds) gave Mitchell third place.

1. Oleksii Novikov — 549 kilograms (1,210.3 pounds)
2. Gabriel Peña — 522 kilograms (1,150.8 pounds)
3. Trey Mitchell — 499 kilograms (1,100.1 pounds)
4. Mitchell Hooper — 476 kilograms (1,049.4 pounds) | Tied for fifth
5. Bobby Thompson — 476 kilograms(1,049.4 pounds) | Tied for fifth
6. Konstantine Janashia — 476 kilograms | Tied for fifth
7. Brain Shaw—  431 kilograms (950.1 pounds) | Tied for seventh
8. Kevin Faires — 431 kilograms (950.1 pounds) | Tied for seventh
9. Evan Singleton — 408 kilograms (899.5 pounds)
10. Aivars Smaukstelis — 408 kilograms (899.5 pounds) | Tied for 10th
11. Gabriel Rheaume — 408 kilograms (899.5 pounds) | Tied for 10th
12. Žydrūnas Savickas — 408 kilograms (899.5 pounds) | Tied for 10th
13. Jerry Pritchett — 408 kilograms (899.5 pounds) | Tied for 10th
14. Maxime Boudreault — No attempt
15. Luke Stoltman — No attempt

Bag Over Bar

In the Bag Over Bar, the athletes had to toss eight bags, ranging from 22 to 29 kilograms (48.5 to 63.9 pounds), over a 15-foot bar. Speed was the tiebreaker if anyone threw the same number of bags. Trey Mitchell (first place) and Brian Shaw (second place) were the only two competitors to toss all eight bags — Mitchell won with the faster time. 

1. Trey Mitchell — Eight bags in 47.4 seconds
2. Brian Shaw — Eight bags in 51.12 seconds
3. Maxime Boudreault — Seven bags
4. Aivars Smaukstelis — Six bags
5. Oleksii Novikov — Six bags
6. Bobby Thompson — Six bags
7. Konstantine Janashia — Six bags
8. Evan Singleton — Five bags
9. Mitchell Hooper — Five bags
10. Gabriel Peña — Four bags
11. Žydrūnas Savickas — Three bags
12. Jerry Pritchett — Three bags
13. Kevin Faires — Two bags
14. Gabriel Rheaume — Two bags
15. Luke Stoltman — Two bags

Super Yoke

On the third event of Day One, the yoke weighed 506 kilograms (1,117 pounds). The strongman had to carry it 60 meters in the fastest possible time. Hooper strode ahead of the field, beating second-place finisher Konstantine Janashia by over four seconds. 

1. Mitchell Hooper — 11.06 seconds
2. Konstantine Janashia — 15.67 seconds
3. Oleksii Novikov — 16.49 seconds
4. Trey Mitchell — 17.07 seconds
5. Evan Singleton — 17.59 seconds
6. Brian Shaw — 18.56 seconds
7. Bobby Thompson — 18.59 seconds
8. Aivars Smaukstelis — 22.4 seconds
9. Kevin Faires — 22.7 seconds
10. Žydrūnas Savickas — 27.1 seconds
11. Jerry Pritchett — 27.2 seconds
12. Maxime Boudreault — 43.21 seconds
13. Gabriel Rheaume — No finish
14. Gabriel Peña — No finish

*Note: Luke Stoltman withdrew after this event. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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[Related: How to Do the Goblet Squat for Lower Body Size and Mobility]

Circus Dumbbell for Reps

During the Circus Dumbbell for Reps, athletes had to lift the titular implement to their shoulder and overhead press it to a complete lockout. On an official’s signal, a competitor could drop the weight and start the process anew. Whoever completed the most reps in 75 seconds would be the victor. 

Eight reps for Novikov gave him the event victor. Mitchell (six) and Hooper (five) followed behind.

1. Oleksii Novikov — Eight reps
2. Trey Mitchell — Six reps
3. Mitchell Hooper — Five reps (Tied for third)
4. Brian Shaw — Five reps (Tied for third)
5. Bobby Thompson — Five reps (Tied third)
6. Evan Singleton — Four reps (Tied for sixth)
7. Aivars Smaukstelis — Three reps (Tied for seventh)
8. Gabriel Rheaume — Three reps (Tied for seventh)
9. Kevin Faires — Two reps (Tied for ninth)
10. Maxime Boudreault — Two reps (Tied for ninth)
11. Konstantine Janashia — Zero reps
12. Gabriel Peña — No lift 
13. Žydrūnas Savickas — No lift 
14. Jerry Pritchett — No lift 

To start the second day of the competition, competitors had to push through the Log Press Medley. The athletes had the choice of their weight at 172, 186, and 200 kilograms (380, 410, and 440 pounds) and had to perform as many reps as they could within a 90-second time limit. Notably, those who lifted a higher weight but with fewer reps had higher scores.

Mitchell successfully worked his way up to the 200-kilogram (440-kilogram) log, and a double gave him the event victory. Shaw took second place by pressing 186 kilograms (410 pounds) for his own double in second place, while Novikov, Boudreault, and Hooper each pressed that weight for one rep to tie for third. 

1. Trey Mitchell — 200 kilograms for two reps
2. Brian Shaw — 186 kilograms for two reps
3. Oleksii Novikov — 186 kilograms for one rep (Tied for third)
4. Maxime Boudreault — 186 kilograms for one rep (Tied for third)
5. Mitchell Hooper — 186 kilograms for one rep (Tied for third)
6. Kevin Faires — 172 kilograms for two reps (Tied for sixth)
7. Aivars Šmaukstelis — 172 kilograms for two reps (Tied for sixth)
8. Žydrūnas Savickas — 172 kilograms for two reps (Tied for sixth)
9. Bobby Thompson — No Lift
10. Evan Singleton — No Lift
11. Gabriel Rheaume — No Lift
12. Konstantine Janashia — No Lift
13. Jerry Pritchett — No Lift
14. Gabriel Peña — No Lift

*Note: Bobby Thompson withdrew after this event. 

As the contest shifted to the Medley, there were just 13 competitors left in the field. The athletes had to carry a 363-kilogram (800-pound) frame 60 feet and then perform an arm-over-arm pull with a 318-kilogram (700-pound) implement. The time limit was 75 seconds. In the event anyone didn’t finish, the height of the pull or distance for the carry determined the final results. 

1. Maxime Boudreault — 24.29 seconds
2. Evan Singleton — 26.32 seconds
3. Kevin Faires — 27.65 seconds
4. Brian Shaw — 30.62 seconds
5. Gabriel Rheaume — 37 seconds
6. Mitchell Hooper — 39.68 seconds
7. Konstantine Janashia — 44.3 seconds
8. Jerry Pritchett — No finish
9. Žydrūnas Savickas — No finish
10. Aivars Smaukstelis — No finish
11. Gabriel Peña — No finish
12. Trey Mitchell — No finish
13. Oleksii Novikov — No finish

Maxime Boudreault won with a stellar time of 24.29 seconds. Evan Singleton (second in 26.32 seconds) and Kevin Faires (third in 27.65 seconds) were the only other athletes to finish in less than 30 seconds. The two overall leaders, Mitchell and Novikov, were the bottom two in this event. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Mitchell Hooper (@mitchellhooper)

[Related: How to Do the Bulgarian Split Squat for Leg Size, Strength, and Mobility]

Car Leg Press

The Car Leg Press was one of the more exciting events for the competitors and fans alike. The weight of the car and sled had a total of 839 kilograms (1,850 pounds). Whichever athlete could complete the most reps before failing or within 90 seconds would be the winner. 

1. Brian Shaw — Eight reps
2. Mitchell Hooper — Seven reps
3. Trey Mitchell — Five reps
4. Žydrūnas Savickas — Five reps (Tied for fourth)
5. Kevin Faires — Four reps (Tied for fourth)
6. Aivars Šmaukstelis — Three reps (Tied for sixth)
7. Evan Singleton — Three reps (Tied for sixth)
8. Maxime Boudreault — Two reps
9. Oleksii Novikov — One rep
10. Gabriel Rheaume — Zero reps (Tied for 10th)
11. Konstantine Janashia — Zero reps (Tied for 10th)
12. Jerry Pritchett — Zero reps (Tied for 10th)
13. Gabriel Peña — Did Not Attempt

Shaw demonstrated his leg strength by winning the event with eight reps. Hooper (seven) and Mitchell (five) rounded out the top three.

As is a custom in many strongman competitions, the Atlas Stones were the final event and would determine the winner of the 2022 Shaw Classic. The five stones weighed between 159 to 204 kilograms (350 to 450 pounds). Competitors faced each other in this head-to-head event with a time limit of 60 seconds. 

1. Trey Mitchell — Five in 25.0 seconds
2. Brian Shaw — Five in 29.2 seconds
3. Mitchell Hooper — Five in 35.1 seconds
4. Gabriel Peña — Five in 42.99 seconds
5. Maxime Boudreault — Four in 17.3 seconds
6. Kevin Faires — Four in 25.3 seconds
7. Konstantine Janashia — Four in 27.1 seconds
8. Aivars Smaukstelis — Four in 34.7 seconds
9. Gabriel Rheaume — Four in 41.8 seconds
10. Jerry Pritchett — Three stones
11. Žydrūnas Savickas — Three stones
12. Oleksii Novikov — Three stones
13. Evan Singleton — One stone

Mitchell and Shaw were the final pairing as Mitchell beat Shaw to the fifth stone by four seconds to win his second straight Shaw Classic title. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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[Related: How to Do the Kettlebell Swing for Explosive Power, Strength, and Conditioning]

With this edition of the Shaw Classic now in the rearview mirror, this might be the last contest for a little while for some of these competitors. In the meantime, someone like Mitchell can bask in the glory of a second-straight win in what certainly seems to be a competition only growing in more prestige.

Featured image: @berserkerlifter on Instagram

The post 2022 Shaw Classic Results — A Successful Defense for Trey Mitchell appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

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The 2022 Texas Pro took place on August 12-13 in Irving, Texas. As one of the major steps on the road to hopeful qualification for the 2022 Olympia, the International Federation of Bodybuilding and Fitness (IFBB) Pro League contest is vital for competitors looking to polish their skills and make a name for themselves. 

This year’s edition of the Texas Pro featured eight competitive divisions, with Chinedu Andrew Obiekea, also known as “Andrew Jacked,” as one of the headline winners. The respective victors in each category received automatic spots in the 2022 Olympia on December 16-18 in Las Vegas, NV.

According to the IFBB Pro League website, the 2022 Texas Pro was a Tier 4 contest. That means the second through fifth place finishers earned points ranging from four to one in their potential qualification for the Olympia, respectively. Point standings for those athletes who have not won an IFBB Pro League contest before the Olympia will be finalized on November 20, 2022. 

Here’s an overview of results from the Men’s Open division at the 2022 Texas Pro:

2022 Texas Pro Results | Men’s Open

1. Andrew Jacked
2. Martin Fitzwater
3. Steve Kuclo
4. Kamal Elgargni
5. Quinton Eriya
6. Jephte Cherenfant
7. Carlos Emmanuel Longoria Rodriguez
8. Phil Clahar
9. Joseph Mackey
10. Eddie Bracamontes

Check out the results of the other contested divisions below.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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[Related: How to Do the Goblet Squat for Lower Body Size and Mobility]

According to NPC News Online, this was Andrew Jacked’s Pro League debut. He made quite an impression with aspects of his body like his arms, legs, shoulders, and abs to take home the victory. As a result, Jacked has earned his first shot at an Olympia contest in the process. Notably, Jacked joins an esteemed group of competitors who also won their first Pro League contest like Phil Heath, Flex Wheeler, Hunter Labrada, and Sergio Oliva Jr. 

Here are the respective results for the other Men’s divisions at the 2022 Texas Pro.

212 Division

1. Kerrith Bajjo
2. Cody Drobot
3. Jordan Janowitz
4. Ricky Moten Jr.
5. Martin Gomez
6. Ahmed Elwardany
7. Stephen Didoshak
8. Carlos A. Rodriguez Hernandez
9. David Robinson
10. Kevin Johnson

Classic Physique

1. Courage Opara
2. Valentin Petrov
3. Jorge Luis Guerrero Gallagos
4. John Le
5. Florian Poirson
6. Ashwin Lucas
7. Jared Thompson
8. Vincent Krause
9. Matt Maldonado
10. Adam Thomas

Men’s Physique

1. Daniel Ammons
2. Andrei Lincan
3. Charjo Grant
4. Jeremiah Maxey
5. Jeremy Coleman
6. Stan Morrison
7. Micah Thomas Jr.
8. George Brown
9. Anthony Gilkes
10. Zach Savole

The results for the Women’s divisions are below.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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[Related: How to Do the Bulgarian Split Squat for Leg Size, Strength, and Mobility]

Women’s Physique

1. Melissa Teich
2. Pamela Canfield
3. Ana Harias
4. Ashley Jones
5. Gessica Campbell
6. DeSunka Dawson
7. Heather Grace
8. Ashlynn Richardson
9. Rulying Bian
10. Michele Steeves

Figure

1. Jessica Reyes Padilla
2. Autumn Cleveland
3. Tamera Barrett
4. Felisha Livezey
5. Jennifer Zienart
6. Jessica L. Kendrick
7. Larhannah Robinson
8. Ashley Felperin
9. Amie Mock
10. Martina Yabekova

 

 

 

 

 

 

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[Related: The Best Sled Workouts for Muscle, Strength, Fat Loss, and Recovery]

Bikini

1. Daraja Hill
2. Jodie Yuncker
3. Roxana Marquez
4. Jordan Brannon
5. Shelby Pierce
6. Anya Nicholson
7. Hope Castelli
8. Tamekla Carter
9. Carla Garthwaite
10. Monica Rubio

Wellness

1. Devyn Cambre
2. Lili Dong
3. Amanda Burnett
4. Diana Laura Verduzco Carreno
5. Jen Scarborough Zollars
6. Priscilla Lynd
7. Haley Johnson
8. Brooke Donnelly
9. Daniela Esquivel Castillo
10. Celeste Morales

 

 

 

 

 

 

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[Related: How to Do the Incline Dumbbell Curl for Bigger, Stronger Arms]

Per the schedule on the IFBB Pro League website, the next major competition on the docket for many of these athletes is the 2022 Yamamoto Cup in Italy on September 11. That contest will be Tier 4. It’ll be another sizable step forward on the journey to the 2022 Olympia in mid-December. 

Featured image: @w_wittmannphoto on Instagram

The post 2022 Texas Pro Bodybuilding Results — Andrew Jacked Wins In Stellar Pro Debut appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

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With only a few ingredients, our sausage and egg casserole is the perfect leisurely brunch dish, or grab-and-go nibble for a busy morning. The baked eggs are firm enough to be sliced into finger food, which is a great hack for adults rushing to work, teenagers off to school, or for little ones who prefer eating with their hands to using a fork. Plus, with about 4g of carbs per serving, this recipe makes for a simple, keto breakfast or ideal low-carb mid-day bite.

More carnivorous folks can enjoy this gluten-free breakfast casserole with just sausage and eggs, but you can sneak in a veggie, too. Eggs are a great vehicle for sautéed greens. We use arugula in this recipe, but you can easily substitute or add kale or swiss chard. For extra flavor you can even toss in some mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers.

However you make it, this sausage and egg casserole is simple, healthy, and delicious. What more can you ask for from your breakfast?

How to make a sausage and egg casserole

The ingredients for our sausage and egg casserole are fairly simple. You’ll want to gather together eggs, milk (or milk alternative), Primal Kitchen Avocado Oil, ground chicken sausage, arugula, cauliflower rice, and shredded cheese (we used goat cheese).

Then, in a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, 1 tablespoon of avocado oil and a good pinch of salt and pepper. 

In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of avocado oil over medium heat. Once hot, add your sausage and brown the meat, stirring occasionally. Once fully cooked through, add the cauliflower rice and cook until tender, then mix in the arugula. Remove the skillet from the heat and allow the heat from the skillet and meat to wilt the arugula. Allow the mixture to cool for a few minutes.

Once the sausage mixture has cooled slightly, whisk it into the egg mixture a little at a time to prevent the eggs from scrambling. Sprinkle on about ? of the cheese mixture. Then use avocado oil spray or butter to grease a baking dish. Pour the egg mixture in and top with the remaining cheese.

Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top and edges of the bake are browned and the casserole feels firm to the touch. Allow the bake to cool, then cut into 6 or 8 pieces and top with chopped parsley or green onion. 

Can you freeze this sausage and egg casserole?

Yes, you can freeze this breakfast casserole! The casserole can go directly into the oven from the freezer. For ease, you can even freeze this casserole after it’s been cut up into individual serving sizes.

Print

Sausage and Egg Casserole

---

• 
  Author: Priscilla Chamessian
• 
  Total Time: 65 minutes
• 
  Yield: 6

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

With only a few ingredients, our sausage and egg casserole is the perfect leisurely brunch dish, or grab-and-go nibble for a busy morning. Plus, with about 4g of carbs per serving, this recipe makes for a simple, keto breakfast or ideal low-carb mid-day bite.

---

Ingredients

10 eggs

½ cup coconut milk, milk or cashew milk

2 Tbsp Primal Kitchen Avocado Oil (divided)

1 pound ground chicken sausage (or your favorite sausage)

2 cups arugula

1.5 cups cauliflower rice

8 oz. shredded cheddar cheese (we used goat cheddar)

Salt and pepper

Fresh parsley or green onion, to garnish

---

Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, 1 tablespoon of avocado oil and a good pinch of salt and pepper. 
2. In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of avocado oil over medium heat. Once hot, add your sausage and brown the meat, stirring occasionally. Once fully cooked through, add the cauliflower rice and cook until tender, then mix in the arugula. Remove the skillet from the heat and allow the heat from the skillet and meat to wilt the arugula. Allow the mixture to cool for a few minutes.
3. Once the sausage mixture has cooled slightly, whisk it into the egg mixture a little at a time to prevent the eggs from scrambling. Sprinkle on about ? of the cheese mixture.
4. Use avocado oil spray or butter to grease a baking dish. Pour the egg mixture in and top with the remaining cheese.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top and edges of the bake are browned and the casserole feels firm to the touch. Allow the bake to cool, then cut into 6 or 8 pieces and top with chopped parsley or green onion.

Notes

Use your favorite cheese and green in this recipe. If you don’t like arugula, baby kale, spinach would work well.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Category: Breakfast

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
• Calories: 426.3
• Sugar: 2.1g
• Sodium: 661.6mg
• Fat: 28.5g
• Saturated Fat: 13.8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 4.3g
• Fiber: 0.8g
• Protein: 36.8g
• Cholesterol: 421.3mg
• Net Carbs: 3.45g

Keywords: sausage egg casserole

The post Sausage and Egg Casserole appeared first on Mark’s Daily Apple.

Originally Posted At: https://breakingmuscle.com/feed/rss

On August 11, 2022, the organizing body of the Shaw Classic announced over Instagram that two-time defending World’s Strongest Man (WSM) Tom Stoltman would withdraw from this year’s edition of the contest. With the competition right around the corner on August 13-14, 2022, there will not be a replacement for Stoltman’s roster spot.  

In a video on his YouTube channel, Stoltman later revealed the reason behind his withdrawal. In a mix-up, the flight plans for his wife, Sinead, were incorrect when they checked their final arrangements to travel to Colorado. Without a resolution, Stoltman would not travel to the United States without his partner. 

[Related: How to Do the Goblet Squat for Lower Body Size and Mobility]

“I didn’t want to fly over without Sinead. I couldn’t just leave Sinead at the airport,” Stoltman clarified. “My first instinct was to make sure Sinead was alright and get her sorted. I would then think of myself second.”

Stoltman and his older brother and fellow strongman competitor, Luke, were initially supposed to fly together with their wives to the competition. That plan was scrapped as Luke and his partner went to Colorado alone. 

Tom noted before making his final decision to withdraw, he had a conversation with the Shaw Classic organizer, Brian Shaw. Then, Stoltman reflected that he needed his wife alongside him to compete and made the concession. 

“The situation by that point was just too much for me,” Stoltman said. “I think the best interest for me now is to just pass this competition.” 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Shaw Classic (@theshawclassic)

[Related: How to Do the Bulgarian Split Squat for Leg Size, Strength, and Mobility]

At the time of this writing, here is the final roster for the 2022 Shaw Classic. It will only feature 15 athletes after Stoltman’s departure. 

2022 Shaw Classic Roster 

• Trey Mitchell — Defending Champion
• Brian Shaw — 2021 Runner-up
• Mitchell Hooper
• Žydrūnas Savickas
• Luke Stoltman
• Oleksii Novikov
• Evan Singleton
• Gabriel Rheaume
• Aivars Smaukstelis
• Bobby Thompson
• Maxime Boudreault
• Konstantine Janashia
• Gabriel Peña
• Kevin Faires
• Jerry Pritchett

2022 Shaw Classic Events

At the time of this article’s publication, here is the confirmed schedule of events for the 2022 Shaw Classic:

Day One — Saturday, August 13, 2022

• Max Hummer Tire Deadlift
• Super Yoke Event
• Circus Dumbbell
• Throwing Event (Bag or Keg)

Day Two — Sunday, August 14, 2022

• Log Press 
• Frame Carry Arm-Over-Arm Medley
• Car Leg Press for Reps
• Atlas Stones

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Shaw Classic (@theshawclassic)

[Related: How to Do the Incline Dumbbell Curl for Bigger, Stronger Arms]

Even with the younger Stoltman’s withdrawal, this year’s contest should be a fascinating battle. It still features multiple WSM winners like Shaw (2011, 2013, 2015-2016), Žydrūnas Savickas (2009-2010, 2012, 2014) and Oleksii Novikov (2020).

There are also a few notable rising stars like Mitchell Hooper and defending Shaw Classic champion Trey Mitchell. All around, the remaining field could push each other in an exciting back-and-forth. 

The 2022 Shaw Classic will take place on August 13-14 in Loveland, CO. 

Featured image: @theshawclassic

The post Tom Stoltman Withdraws From 2022 Shaw Classic After Trouble With Flight Arrangements appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

Originally Posted At: https://breakingmuscle.com/feed/rss

The 2022 Shaw Classic will take place on August 13-14 at the Budweiser Events Center in Loveland, CO. In the third edition of the growing strongman contest, 15 athletes will battle in eight events over two days. 

In an August 12, 2022, Instagram post, the Shaw Classic’s organizing body announced that this year’s contest will be live-streamed by ADL Productions. Members of the Shaw Strength Club can use this link — https://club.shawstrength.com — before 5:00 p.m. Mountain Standard Time on August 13, 2022, to view the competition’s stream.

For non-members, a one-time $14.99 fee grants access to the main portion of the Shaw Classic. A one-time $4,99 fee allows spectators to watch the Men’s and Women’s Open portions. Access to the stream can be purchased at the ADL website: http://adlpro.live.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Shaw Classic (@theshawclassic)

[Related: How to Do the Goblet Squat for Lower Body Size and Mobility]

Here’s the confirmed roster of athletes that fans can expect at the 2022 Shaw Classic:

2022 Shaw Classic Roster 

• Trey Mitchell — Defending Champion
• Brian Shaw — 2021 Runner-up
• Mitchell Hooper
• Žydrūnas Savickas
• Luke Stoltman
• Oleksii Novikov
• Evan Singleton
• Gabriel Rheaume
• Aivars Smaukstelis
• Bobby Thompson
• Maxime Boudreault
• Konstantine Janashia
• Gabriel Peña
• Kevin Faires
• Jerry Pritchett

*Note: The roster now consists of 15 athletes after two-time reigning World’s Strongest Man (WSM) Tom Stoltman withdrew from the competition on August 11, 2022. 

Here’s the schedule of events for fans to keep an eye on at this year’s contest. 

2022 Shaw Classic Events

Day One — Saturday, August 13, 2022

• Max Hummer Tire Deadlift
• Super Yoke Event
• Circus Dumbbell
• Throwing Event (Bag or Keg)

Day Two — Sunday, August 14, 2022

• Log Press 
• Frame Carry Arm-Over-Arm Medley
• Car Leg Press for Reps
• Atlas Stones

 

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Shaw Classic (@theshawclassic)

[Related: How to Do the Bulgarian Split Squat for Leg Size, Strength, and Mobility]

Anyone’s Game

While Trey Mitchell is the defending champion, there could be some shuffling around on the podium.Before his runner-up result in 2021, Brian Shaw won the 2020 Shaw Classic. However, as the contest grows, Shaw has more and more responsibility leading up to his performance. How the presumed increase in work will affect his performance is unknown.

Plus, with a previous two-time podium finisher JF Caron not a participant in 2022, that leaves a new opening for the other athletes. A newcomer that could take advantage is Mitchell Hooper, from Canada, who has recently captured a second-place result in two straight Giants Live strongman contests. The ambitious Hooper is still seeking his first major international victory, and the 2022 Shaw Classic would be a great start.

 

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Mitchell Hooper (@mitchellhooper)

[Related: The Best Sled Workouts for Muscle, Strength, Fat Loss, and Recovery]

The strongman world will learn whether Mitchell successfully defends his title or an upstart like Hooper or a veteran like Shaw stands on the top of the podium on August 13-14, 2022, in Loveland, CO. 

Featured image: @theshawclassic on Instagram

The post How to Watch the 2022 Shaw Classic appeared first on Breaking Muscle.

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Research of the Week

Macronutrients and genes interact to regulate obesity risk.

The most distinguishing feature of long COVID is low cortisol.

Even rainwater has “forever chemicals.”

Placebo is everywhere.

Women on vegetarian diets have a higher risk of hip fractures.

New Primal Kitchen Podcasts

Primal Kitchen Podcast: The Link Between Dairy Intolerance and Dairy Genes with Alexandre Family Farm Founders Blake and Stephanie

Primal Health Coach Radio: Taren Gesell, You Can Always Reinvent Yourself

Media, Schmedia

CDC eases COVID guidance.

How cows dying from polluted river water revealed the existence of forever chemicals.

Interesting Blog Posts

On negative health claims about red meat.

Red meat study is another red herring.

Social Notes

Good example of strict curls.

On change.

Everything Else

Diet and exercise work.

Wrap it up, guys. Processed junk food is “better” for the environment than pasture-raised meats.

Things I’m Up to and Interested In

Interesting theory: Is Alzheimer’s triggered by a virus?

Interesting proposal: In vivo gene editing to increase LDL particle clearance.

Interesting question: Is statin therapy warranted for someone with high LDL on a low-carb diet?

Nice podcast: Tucker and Brian talk to Jayne Rees Buxton about the Great Plant-Based Con.

Reminder: Food dyes can be toxic.

Question I’m Asking

How has your trust in institutions fared the last few years?

Recipe Corner

• Low-carb gluten-free coconut cream bars.
• Nigerian beef suya (skewers).

Time Capsule

One year ago (Aug 6 – Aug 12)

• Try It or Toss It: Mythbusters for 4 Wellness Trends—What’s good, what’s not.
• 20 More Questions About the Benefits of Collagen Supplements—You asked, I answered.

Comment of the Week

“In my experience, Mark doesn’t advocate pushing yourself to the point where you need painkillers or multiple days off. In fact, he has spoken at length about avoiding “crushing” yourself in the gym as it doesn’t make evolutionary sense to be non-functional for a period after a workout. . I think the point is to challenge yourself in a way that produces a compensatory response in the body. “Failure” doesn’t have to mean struggling to get every last ugly rep, it can be failure of form, grace, etc. It is a relative term. In other words, don’t leave 10 reps in the tank and expect to make strength or fitness gains. This is different than the approach to microworkouts, which is about increasing movement rather than a particular fitness goal. In any case, it sounds like you’ve found a way that works for you. Cheers!”

-Well said, Brad.

The post New and Noteworthy: What I Read This Week—Edition 189 appeared first on Mark’s Daily Apple.