Better Body team Max and Scott just wrapped up an epic Vegas training session with the phenomenal Marcus Hunt, our friend and hybrid athlete who embodies the fusion of strength, endurance, and sheer will.
Over two grueling days, Marcus got Scott acquainted with his training routine.
They kicked off with an upper-body strength workout, showcasing Marcus’s formidable conditioning, and rounded off with a 5km run through the sizzling streets of Vegas.
The following day, they hit the lower body, where Marcus, true to his relentless nature, went head-to-head with a 700lb deadlift. Despite not nailing it, his attempt was nothing short of inspiring.
Afterward, it wasn’t just the weights that brought everyone together but also Marcus’s welcoming family, who shared in another 5km run.
[Pictured: Better Body Twist Dumbbells]
Marcus’s home gym is his sanctuary—a place where marathons and deadlifts coexist.
In Marcus’ gym is the Power Rack, Heavy Duty Bench, Premium Barbell and Weight Plates - equipment that support him in his quest for peak performance.
Our visit was more than a physical test; it was a peek into the heart and mind of a man who, at a young 17, deadlifted 635lbs. A man fluent in Portuguese, thanks to two transformative years in Brazil. A man who, while chasing the extraordinary, remains grounded in gratitude, family, and faith.
As Scott shared laughs, stories, and training struggle with Marcus, it was clear—this athlete’s drive, fueled by a love for challenge and community, makes him more than a fitness powerhouse; he’s a beacon for anyone daring to redefine their limits.
Our Vegas visit may have been short, but the lessons in endurance, adaptability, and human spirit were vast.
We’re bringing back more than just memories—we’re bringing back new strategies to challenge our Better Body community.
Watch our Vegas Recap Video for all the action, and remember, whether you're lifting at home or running a trail, it’s not just about the equipment; it’s about the heart you put into every rep and every mile.
Until the next adventure!
]]>In the aftermath of the 2022 HYROX World Championships, while Kris Rugloski claimed the top spot, it was Lauren Weeks that truly captured the attention of many.
An 8-month pregnant Lauren not only participated but led the majority of the first run, eventually finishing 9th among 14 Elite women.
Postpartum Dominance
Many wondered if Lauren, now a new mom, could contend with the Elites.
Squashing all doubts, she seized her third HYROX World Championship, outpacing HYROX newcomer Meg Jacoby. With a stellar track record, including being a Three Time World Champion, Lauren's dominance in HYROX history is unparalleled.
A Glimpse into Lauren's Training Regime
The Hybrid Letter’s interview with Lauren provided insights into her training methods. Emphasizing movement and a positive mentality, Lauren revealed her inclination towards low-intensity training. Contrary to the popular 80/20 approach, she believes her training might be even more skewed towards low-intensity exercises. This ensures that she never feels too stressed about her upcoming workouts.
Lauren also gave some tactical advice for HYROX races. She noted that while she starts with an aggressive pace, it might not be the best for everyone. Lauren also stressed the importance of being strategic with the sleds and machinery workouts to avoid physical exhaustion.
Her weekly training routine consists of around 20 hours of workouts, with a majority spent on running, covering over 50 miles.
Strategies Behind Lauren’s Success
Running Strategy: Despite her initial lack of a running background, Lauren's performance in the recent championships showcased her progress. Her run times, which contributed to 54% of her total race time, have improved dramatically since the 2021 World Championships.
Station Work: Lauren's approach to station work has been tactical. Her performance in the 2023 European Championships revealed a conscious effort to optimize her runs by taking a more measured approach on the stations. Notably, her strategy on the farmer’s carry station shifted within the season, going from a time of 2:17 in Maastricht to a winning time in Manchester.
These are some of the strategies behind Lauren’s success.
Looking Forward
Rumor has it that Lauren might make an appearance at the first American HYROX race in New York on June 10, 2023. Only time will tell if she continues to break records and redefine HYROX history.
From Obscurity to Stardom
The Spartan Games introduced many to Lauren, where she competed with elite athletes from diverse disciplines. With minimal media attention during the games, her third-place finish was surprising to many. But it was her victory in the HYROX World Championship of Fitness 2020 that truly marked her arrival.
Lauren's journey, from her initial days in CrossFit to becoming a global sensation, is a testament to her dedication, resilience, and talent.
Train like Lauren Weeks
For those inspired by Lauren's remarkable athleticism, emulating her training regimen is a key. And while the dedication and discipline are purely intrinsic, the equipment is a tangible component we can delve into. Let’s take a closer look at some of the essential training equipment to supercharge your sessions..
Check out Better Body Bestsellers!
]]>The Better Body team recently touched down on the city of angels to build out home gyms for 2 incredible athletes: Hyrox World Champion Hunter McIntyre and the inspiring Claire Stone, better known as Claire Bear.
On the ground to visit was Max and Scott - Max McKenzie is Better Body’s founder working hard day in and day out to support you - our everyday athletes. Scott Thompson is a Canadian hybrid athlete and the brains behind our social media, partnerships, and content.
Both Max and Scott love to train, and took this opportunity to get challenged by Hunter and Claire.
Hunter McIntyre is a Hyrox World Champion and a standout figure in the global fitness arena. Renowned for his exceptional athleticism and tenacity, he's not just a top competitor but also an inspiration to many. His blend of strength, charisma, and dedication has solidified his status as a leading icon in the world of fitness.
Hyrox is a global fitness competition that melds strength and endurance, challenging participants with a combination of 8 functional exercises interspersed with a total of 8km running. Designed for everyone from beginners to elite athletes, the event is standardized, ensuring all competitors, regardless of their location, face the same challenges. With categories ranging from individual to doubles and events hosted in cities worldwide, Hyrox stands as a testament to both mental and physical grit, inviting participants to test their boundaries in a unique fitness landscape.
When we arrived at Hunter's residence in LA, we discovered he's currently on a mission - training for the grueling Murph world record! For those unfamiliar, the Murph involves a one-mile run, 100 pull-ups, 200 push-ups, 300 squats, and yet another one-mile run, all performed wearing a weighted vest.
Our team had the opportunity to sweat it out with Hunter. Following his lead, we participated in a Murph-style workout, each at our individual pace. Hunter's only requirement? Commit to our rep numbers and see it through.
Hunter’s Murph preparation involves a 12-16 week program, commencing with 10 sets of 10 reps for each exercise. Each week, the intensity ratchets up by 2 reps.
And the ultimate challenge? Completing the routine at race pace, without breaks!
For Hunter, we constructed a Better Body Power Rack - one of our most versatile pieces of equipment.
Claire Bear, a renowned fitness influencer, had just moved into her new place and needed a quieter alternative to Gold’s Venice, her current gym. Enter Better Body Equipment. We transformed her devoted home gym space into a fitness sanctuary.
Claire’s new home gym includes: Better Body Weight Barbell, Bumper Plates, Hex Dumbbell Set, Premium Bench, and a Squat Rack
Our Workout Session with Claire:
We dived into an intense routine with Claire that included Deadlifts, Shoulder Press, Bulgarian Split Squats, and Bicep Curls.
Our LA trip was a fusion of hard work, inspiration, and fitness passion.
Setting up home gyms for such dedicated fitness enthusiasts was an honour and we look forward to more connections.
Check out our LA Recap Video for all the action!
Until next time!
]]>For many, the chill outside is a ticket to chill inside, letting those fitness goals fade away. But here's the twist: working out when the weather turns isn't just a test of your dedication to fitness.
It's a way to stay healthy while everyone else is sniffling around you.
The best defense against illness is a healthy mind and body, nourished with good food and challenged with exercise.
But you knew that already. You see the bigger picture.
By staying active now, you're not just sculpting a better physique but fortifying your health and charging through the last few months of the year, so when 2024 comes, you’re ready.
Let's make these chilly months count.
Ready to level up?
In this article, we'll dive into:
Let's get started.
(Pictured: Better Body LB Competition Plates)
As colder weather takes its hold, it's worth remembering the deep connection between a healthy mind and a robust body.
When one suffers, the other often feels the impact.
Exercise stands as a bridge between the two.
It's more than just physical prowess or hitting milestones; it's a catalyst that fosters mental clarity and positivity. A consistent workout routine not only strengthens the body but also rejuvenates the mind, setting you on a path to holistic well-being.
It’s not quite winter yet, but days are getting shorter and darker.
These darker days are particularly challenging for those who experience SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder).
Disruptions in our biological internal clocks, or circadian rhythms, leading to feelings of depression.
The remedy might be simpler than we think: consistent exercise, especially done during daylight hours, can help recalibrate our circadian rhythms.
If you've got a room with ample natural light or a window spot, use it for your workouts.
It's no secret that exercise releases those "feel good" chemicals like serotonin, a neurotransmitter crucial for mood regulation.
Come winter, reduced sunlight can trigger a decline in serotonin, leading to depressive feelings.
Engaging in physical activity boosts serotonin levels, offering a natural mood lift just when you need it most.
(Pictured: Better Body Hex Dumbbell Set + Weight Rack)
A dip in temperatures can dampen our usual vitality and energy, making it crucial to stay proactive about our physical health.
As the mercury drops, our blood circulation can slow. Colder temperatures prompt blood vessels to tighten up, limiting the flow of blood. Good circulation is essential for the efficient energy production, nutrient regulation, and movement of white blood cells throughout the body.
Reduced circulation can compromise the immune response, potentially making the body more susceptible to infections.
Engaging in regular workouts ensures our blood continues to flow freely, ferrying vital nutrients and oxygen where they're needed most, for a body that feels warmed up, from the inside out.
Regular physical activity ensures your metabolism stays in top gear, to ensure proper hormone balance and regulation of immune cell signaling.
One of the compelling reasons to incorporate strength training into your exercise regimen is its positive impact on immune function.
Maintaining healthy muscle mass through strength training contributes to overall health and well-being. Here's how:
Muscles are not just passive structures that help us move; they also play an active role in immune support.
During and after strength training, muscles produce various signaling proteins called cytokines.
These cytokines can have a profound influence on immune responses. Some cytokines help regulate inflammation, while others contribute to the body's defense against infections.
By engaging in regular strength training, you can promote the production of these beneficial cytokines, helping to bolster your immune system.
Muscle tissue serves as a crucial reservoir of protein in the body.
During times of illness or infection, the body's protein requirements may increase to support immune function and tissue repair.
Having an adequate amount of muscle mass means that the body has readily available protein stores to draw upon when needed.
This ensures that the immune system has the necessary resources to combat pathogens effectively.
While the benefits of strength training for immune function are evident, it's important to strike a balance in your exercise routine. Over-exercising or pushing yourself too hard without allowing sufficient time for recovery can have a detrimental impact on your immune system.
Design a well-rounded fitness plan that includes both strength training and rest periods to reap the full benefits of exercise on your immune function.
Exercise plays a pivotal role in reducing chronic inflammation, which can lead to the development of various diseases and illnesses, including: heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, respiratory conditions, skin conditions, autoimmune disorders, and cancer.
Improved Circulation: When we engage in exercise, our muscles and tissues benefit from increased blood flow. This heightened circulation not only aids in the removal of waste products but also facilitates the delivery of essential nutrients to various parts of the body. This process can help reduce inflammation by optimizing tissue health and function.
Lower Inflammatory Markers: One of the remarkable effects of consistent exercise is its ability to lower the levels of inflammatory markers in the bloodstream. Sedentary lifestyles are often associated with higher levels of these markers, which can be detrimental over time. Regular physical activity helps restore a healthier balance and reduces these markers, promoting a more harmonious internal environment.
Immune System Regulation: Exercise also plays a crucial role in regulating the immune system. It ensures that the immune response is appropriate and doesn't go into overdrive. An overactive immune response can lead to unnecessary inflammation. By staying active, we indirectly help our immune system function efficiently without causing excessive inflammation.
Weight Management: Excessive body fat, especially around the abdominal area, is closely linked to increased inflammation. Engaging in regular exercise helps manage and reduce body fat, making it a key component of any weight loss program. As you shed those extra pounds through physical activity, you further decrease the risk of chronic inflammation, promoting better overall health and well-being.
(Pictured: Better Body Power Rack and Dip Bar)
Consuming a wide variety of foods that are rich in essential nutrients is fundamental to ensuring that our immune system has the tools it needs to function optimally. Among these nutrients, vitamin C and zinc stand out as immune system boosters.
Foods like citrus fruits, bell peppers, and strawberries are excellent sources of vitamin C, while nuts, seeds, and lean meats provide the zinc required for immune health.
A diverse diet guarantees the intake of a broad spectrum of nutrients, each playing a unique role in supporting immunity.
Hydration: Adequate hydration is foundational for numerous physiological processes, with a pivotal role in supporting the immune system.
At the cellular level, nearly every bodily function depends on the right fluid balance. For the immune system, this balance becomes even more crucial.
Many of us are dehydrated.In our busy lives, it's easy to overlook the simple act of drinking water. Additionally, the diuretic effects of beverages like coffee and alcohol can quickly deplete the body's water reserves, even without vigorous physical activity.
While replenishing lost fluids is essential, it's equally important to consider the source of hydration. Commercially available electrolyte drinks can be tempting, but they often contain high amounts of sugars or are made with synthetic minerals. These options can actually make dehydration worse. Therefore, it's crucial to choose high-quality electrolyte supplements that are free from added sugars and utilize naturally derived minerals. These not only help replace lost fluids but also provide essential minerals, supporting various bodily functions.
Adequate sleep and rest are fundamental to maintaining a strong and resilient immune system.
In this section, we will emphasize the critical role of sleep in supporting immune function, highlighting the importance of creating an optimal sleep environment, maintaining consistent sleep patterns, and addressing disruptions caused by modern technology.
Understanding the connection between sleep and immunity underscores the significance of proper sleep hygiene for overall well-being.
The ambiance of your bedroom plays a pivotal role in the quality of your sleep. Several factors can significantly enhance the depth and restfulness of your sleep:
Comfortable Mattress: Investing in a comfortable mattress that suits your preferences can make a world of difference in how well you sleep.
Dark Curtains: Blocking out external light with dark curtains or blinds can create a sleep-conducive environment, especially for those who are sensitive to light.
Quiet Environment: Reducing noise disturbances in your sleep space can help you fall asleep faster and enjoy uninterrupted sleep cycles.
Cool Room Temperature: Maintaining a cool room temperature is often conducive to falling asleep faster and experiencing more restful sleep. A cooler room promotes relaxation and prevents overheating during the night.
Establishing a consistent sleep schedule is essential for regulating your body's internal clock, also known as the circadian rhythm.
Going to bed and waking up at consistent times, even on weekends, can lead to improved sleep quality. It makes it easier to fall asleep and reduces nighttime awakenings.
A regular sleep pattern not only ensures restful nights but also supports daytime alertness and overall well-being.
In today's digital age, exposure to screens, especially before bedtime, can interfere with the production of melatonin, a hormone responsible for regulating sleep. To address this issue and foster better sleep hygiene:
Turn Off Electronic Devices: Establish a habit of turning off electronic devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and computers, at least an hour before bedtime. This helps signal to your body that it's time to wind down.
Use "Night Mode" Settings: Many devices offer a "night mode" or "blue light filter" setting that reduces the blue light emitted from screens. This can be less disruptive to melatonin production when you need to use electronic devices close to bedtime.
(Pictured: Better Body Standard Squat Rack, Standard Barbell and Bumper Plates)
Here's a workout routine designed to boost immunity and improve your energy. This routine incorporates a combination of strength training and cardio exercises, which can help improve overall fitness and energy levels while supporting immune function.
Equipment Needed:
Warm-Up:
Begin with a 5-10 minute warm-up to increase your heart rate and prepare your muscles for exercise. You can do light jogging, jumping jacks, or dynamic stretching.
Workout Routine:
Remember to start with weights that are appropriate for your fitness level and progressively increase them as you become more comfortable with the exercises. Always listen to your body and maintain proper form to prevent injury.
Ready to become your best self?
]]>They may not fly or shoot lasers from their eyes, but their superhuman capabilities manifest when they stretch the boundaries of physical and mental capabilities. Their stories inspire us, propelling us to transcend what we perceived as our limits.
One such modern-day superhero is Nick Bare, who defines his own superpowers not by physical feats but by the values he embraces and refines.
In Nick’s own words, “When I think superpowers, I think of being able to fly, shooting webs out of the wrist, running at the speed of light... But I encourage you to think of superpowers not as something that you physically have - but a characteristic or value that you can refine and focus on. We get to choose our superpowers."
From launching Bare Performance Nutrition in a tiny apartment to achieving a staggering $40 million in revenue in 2022, Nick Bare's ascent over the past five years encapsulates his boundless work ethic.
His journey, comprising marathons, IRONMANs, ultra runs, triathlons, and bodybuilding competitions, has been candidly shared with his growing YouTube audience, currently boasting 1 million subscribers.
Dive into this article to uncover Nick Bare's Superpowers for Success.
Nick Bare's relationship with food has been a tumultuous one, originating from his formative years. "My disorder initially impacted me mentally more than physically. Eventually, all I thought about was eating less and exercising more," he candidly shares. This confession provides a window into the psychological battle countless individuals face daily.
In middle school, like many teenagers, Nick was influenced by the societal standards of beauty and body image. Despite being active and athletic, a constant pressure to look a certain way led him to an unhealthy relationship with food. It began with minor alterations to his daily diet, progressively cutting down on portions, even depriving himself of school lunches. What started as a quest for perceived health and aesthetics, turned into an obsession. Nick recalls a typical middle school lunch where he would manipulate his meals: "I remember depriving myself of the school lunch progressively... Until I got to the point where I had no orange, no bread - just the turkey and cheese from the sandwich and a bottle of water." His perception of a "win" was going to bed hungry.
The dangers of an eating disorder are not just physical but deeply psychological. It was not only about the food or the calories; it was about control. Nick felt a sense of mastery and power over being able to deny his body its basic necessities. But the human body has its limits. The day he could not muster the energy to get out of bed for a baseball game was a wake-up call. The subsequent hospital visit and realization that he had been compromising his health were turning points in his life.
His journey towards recovery wasn't instantaneous. After an emotional confrontation with his parents and doctors, Nick made a conscious decision to get better. A significant step was allowing himself to consume more than what he had restricted himself to. That symbolic act of eating two Pop-Tarts, something seemingly simple, was monumental in his path to healing.
However, years later, his foray into bodybuilding threatened to resurface old habits. The stringent dietary restrictions and calorie tracking brought back memories of his days battling the eating disorder. Recognizing the dangers, Nick once again made a commitment to find a balance.
Nick's story is not just about an eating disorder; it's about the broader lesson of understanding and accepting oneself.
His reflection captures this: "You don't have to be perfect. But you can be consistent. You don't have to control everything. You just have to make responsible food choices."
Today, Nick champions a balanced life, enjoying meals with loved ones, and promoting a healthy relationship with food. His journey is a testament that recovery is possible and serves as a beacon of hope for many grappling with similar challenges.
Nick’s philosophy of "Go One More" isn't just about physical mastery, completing one more set; it's a testament to mental tenacity. Nick Bare's journey in marathon training is an embodiment of this spirit. Every marathon he embarked on wasn't just a race; it was a lesson in perseverance, humility, and self-awareness.
Starting with his 1st Marathon in 2018, where he clocked 3:57:00, to his 2nd attempt in 2019, which unexpectedly took longer at 4:15:00 - Nick's experiences seemingly showed regression. With the time of 4:15:00, and self-doubt creeping in, it's easy to see how someone could internalize the narrative, "I'm not a runner…"
Yet, his subsequent actions demonstrated what "Go One More" truly means. After completing an Ironman triathlon, he set his sights on a sub 3-hour marathon. When he clocked in at 3:24:00, falling short of his goal once again, he confronted a crucial question: What was holding him back? On introspection, he realized the biggest adversary wasn't his training regimen, nutrition, or gear. It was his mindset. Nick himself and his subconscious beliefs were the impediment.
The mantra "Go One More" is an antidote to self-imposed limitations. It's an urging voice when every fiber of your being screams for respite. It's the motivation to try once more, even when previous attempts have met with failure.
After realizing this profound insight, Nick went for a sub 2:50 marathon and achieved a time of 2:48:11, proving that mental barriers often eclipse physical ones.
Now, as he trains for a sub 2:45:00 - it's not just about shaving off a few minutes from his time; it's about pushing boundaries, challenging perceptions, and constantly striving to improve. It's about understanding that every failure isn't a full stop but merely a comma in the journey.
Nick Bare's marathon experiences are a metaphor for life. We all have our marathons, our challenges where we strive, fail, learn, and strive again. The essence of "Go One More" is understanding that growth isn't linear. It's fraught with setbacks and failures. Yet, every setback is a setup for a comeback, as long as one has the determination to "Go One More."
Why is modern society, with all its advancements and conveniences, still grappling with widespread unhappiness and a sense of unfulfillment? Nick attributes a significant portion of this collective sentiment to a pervasive lack of courage. But it's essential to understand what he means by 'courage' here. It's not about jumping out of airplanes or facing down lions. It's about the small, daily acts where one steps out of their comfort zone, challenges the status quo, or takes a path less traveled.
Lack of courage often stems from a fear of failure, judgment, or the unknown. It's what holds someone back from starting that dream project, leaving a job that no longer fulfills them, or simply expressing themselves authentically. It's the voice that says, "What if I fail? What will people say?" Courage, in Nick's philosophy, is the act of acknowledging these fears and then deciding that the pursuit, the dream, or the aspiration is worth the risk.
Taking the first step towards any change is often the hardest. Whether it's the first day in the gym, the first class in a new course, or the first word on a blank page, it requires courage. But as Nick puts it, "Courage is the action to make a change." It's about taking that initial leap, even when the outcome is uncertain.
However, courage is not a one-time act. It's a cultivated habit. Every day, every challenge presents an opportunity to choose courage over comfort. And the beauty of this choice is that it's like a muscle; the more you exercise it, the stronger it becomes.
In Nick Bare's life, this courage has manifested in numerous ways, from confronting his eating disorder, pushing his limits in marathons, to building a successful business. Through all these endeavors, one principle stands out: "Real courage is a superpower." It's the driving force that propels one towards their goals, dreams, and aspirations.
In essence, Nick's message is clear: Figure out what YOU truly desire in life, not what society or peers dictate. And once you have that clarity, muster the courage to take daily steps towards that vision. It might be daunting, and there will be setbacks, but in the end, it's this very courage that paves the path to genuine fulfillment and happiness.
Being a hybrid athlete goes beyond impressive feats of strength and endurance. It's about an all-encompassing lifestyle aimed at optimal strength and performance outcomes.
Nick elaborates, "It’s a lifestyle for optimal strength and performance outcomes. An opportunity to push yourself beyond what you thought was possible, allows you to dive deep and do something hard - transforms you mentally, emotionally, and physically."
Ready to embark on your hybrid training journey? Follow Nick's steps to develop your own training program.
Equip your home gym with Better Body.
Nick Bare's journey, from confronting personal struggles to pushing physical boundaries, offers more than just a narrative of success.
It provides a roadmap for anyone looking to navigate the challenges of life with resilience, determination, and authenticity. Through lessons on self-acceptance, perseverance, and courage, Nick exemplifies that the true essence of being a 'superhero' isn't about achieving superhuman feats, but about continuously striving to be a better version of oneself.
As we journey through our paths, may we take these lessons to heart, embracing each day as an opportunity to "Go One More" with courage and conviction.
]]>Welcome to Fitness Flex, the Better Body series where we highlight athletes within our community who inspire us to dig deeper in our own training.
Today, we’ll get to know Better Body team member Scott Thompson and his odd-defying journey, from a youth of insecurity to the pinnacle of mental tenacity — completing a solo Ironman against all odds.
Here’s what to expect in today’s Fitness Flex feature on Scott Thompson.
While our Superhero Spotlight series focuses on world renowned elite athletes at the top of their game, we will focus on inspiring members of our direct community for Fitness Flex.
If you follow Better Body on Instagram, you may recognize Scott from our short form video content. We brought Scott on for his bodybuilding knowledge, inspiring training routine and his talent as a creative… and in the past year, we were blown away by his progress as he put laser focus on a new goal of becoming a hybrid athlete.
Along with being a member of the Better Body team, Scott is a personal trainer and online coach helping individuals on their fitness journey. But he wasn’t always fit.
Growing up, Scott faced the challenges of being overweight. He was bullied by his peers, struggled daily with self doubt, and avoided taking his shirt off.
This was not easy and could have beaten him down into submission … but the spark of determination was there, and Scott decided to use his struggles as fuel.
This decision brought him to the gym in 2017, when he was 16 and still in high school. Like many of us, the gym became his refuge of mental health, a place where he developed grit and learned consistency.
That first year of training, he lost 40lbs and learned an important lesson that would only get stronger with time:
The true, most lasting joy of fitness comes from the sense of accomplishment of doing something you once thought you could never do.
With this lesson learned, Scott’s mindset in training became focused on personal development over aesthetics from a young age.
“Focusing on fitness helped me find a sense of purpose and direction. After high school, I decided to study physical fitness in college and become a personal trainer. Ultimately, that decision to start lifting weights helped me build my character and transform from being a young kid to the man I am today.” - Scott Thompson
As Scott advanced in his bodybuilding journey, he realized that, while showing up to train at the gym was a great consistent practice, it had also become his comfort zone. And growth doesn’t happen in your comfort zone.
While Scott had quickly fallen in love with and maintained a devoted practice to lifting heavy weights, he knew exactly what types of fitness were beyond his comfort levels. And that, like for so many of us - is cardio, specifically running and swimming.
It just so happened that Scott’s realization was happening at the same time that hybrid training as a fitness philosophy was taking more space in centre stage. Hybrid training is an approach to fitness that develops one’s excellence across several exercise modalities like lifting, running, swimming and cycling. This means training for overall fitness in strength and endurance - rather than specializing in one over the other.
Scott learned about elite hybrid athlete David Goggins, who inspired him with the relentless way he overcame adversity. Like Scott, David Goggins was at one point overweight - and in a seemingly overnight decision, made the commitment to focus on his fitness and change his life forever.
Goggins has completed over 60 ultra-marathons, triathlons and ultra-triathlons, setting course records and regularly placing in the top 5 - as well as breaking the Guinness World Record for pull-ups, completing 4,030 in 17 hours.
This inspiration renewed Scott’s resolve in the first lesson he ever learned from fitness - that the true, most lasting joy of fitness comes from accomplishing something he once thought he could never do.
And what’s something Scott, and so many of us bodybuilders think we could never do?
Endurance sports like long distance running and swimming.
So, last year, Scott decided to step up his hybrid training by giving himself 3 major goals for 2023:
Scott recently ended up completing a full Ironman distance just 3 months after a grueling few months of bodybuilding prep and competition.
Scott’s Ironman experience was filled with challenges - leading up to, and during the event.
So much went wrong, leading up to a subpar set-up for race day.
From the beginning, Scott only had 11 weeks to train for his half Ironman distance because of 2 bodybuilding competitions - prep for which are highly restrictive and not conducive for endurance training at the same time.
In the fog of bodybuilding prep, Scott actually signed up for the full Ironman distance: 2.4-mile (3.86 km) swim, a 112-mile (180.25 km) bike ride, and a marathon 26.2-mile (42.20 km) run… realizing so only 5 weeks before the race.
This was a shock, considering at this point, Scott’s maximum distance in training was only running a marathon once, swimming 2.5kms and cycling 100km respectively.. He knew he was nowhere near the physical capability of doing a full distance Ironman.
He decided to go for it anyway, seeing it as a blessing in disguise … that maybe he signed up for it subconsciously, that he wanted to push himself far beyond his comfort zone and see what he was capable of. So, he ramped up training for 3 weeks to accumulate volume as much as he could.
Just 2 weeks before the event, Scott received news of an emergency that took him back to his home in Ontario to be with his family. The last few weeks of training fell to the wayside, as his mind was on much more important matters.
One week before the Ironman in Penticton, race officials made the decision to cancel the race due to wildfires ravaging the area.
Wildfires had led to a state of emergency, loss of homes, and families being displaced. Canceling the race was the right decision considering the circumstances… but losing the opportunity to race, without a rescheduled event, was heartbreaking for Scott and over a thousand athletes who had trained for over a year to compete.
"I want to experience that shared consciousness of the race... To be surrounded by people who have trained so hard for so long to give it their all for this one day.”
Not wanting to give up on his goal despite so many adversities, Scott made the decision to still complete the Ironman distance independently, even without the race-day camaraderie he had been looking forward to.
“I needed to see this goal through - there was no way I was quitting at that point.”
Scott made a plan - laying out an Ironman distance course local to where he lived. This led to another challenge, as the course was different from what he had been training for.
While he was most nervous about the swimming portion, this actually went the best. With the support of his partner who paddleboarded alongside him to keep him on course, Scott succeeded in the swimming portion without too much trouble.
Cycling - mountain biking and road biking - was a huge part of Scott’s life growing up, and so he was the most excited for this section. Unfortunately, the cycling portion of his Ironman was the beginning of some major hurdles.
To avoid traffic and stop lights, Scott planned the cycling section as loops of North Vancouver’s Seymour Demonstration Forest - a paved 20km trail for cyclists and pedestrians only. However, due to a closed section on his planned route, the cycling course he laid out had much more elevation (9000ft) than he had trained for… and Scott paid for it with severe cramping in his quads.
Cramping this early on in a long distance endurance race is a terrible sign. For Scott, cramping resulted from being not hydrated enough leading up to the race, and ultimately, not being conditioned enough for the elevation he attempted.
Scott’s solution to keep himself going was to lap a flatter, straight, 3KM section back and forth for the remaining ~ 85kms. This was mental torture - complete suffering of total mundanity.
“It felt like torture, doing the same thing, over and over, so many times. That broke me, I was completely alone for 7 and a half hours.”
In his training, Scott still found enjoyment in his suffering, because of a drive to push himself. He knew he would suffer doing his solo Ironman, but was looking forward to being surrounded by North Vancouver's beautiful scenery. However, this time, he couldn’t find any enjoyment. He felt absolutely crushed, not because he didn’t think he could finish mentally, but because his body was failing him - and he still had to run an entire marathon.
The run was demoralizing, and Scott continued to struggle through cramps. The Better Body crew Max and Cooper joined Scott to run the furthest distance they had every run, 25kms - something Scott really appreciated, and something that helped him out a lot.
Despite all these adversities telling him he shouldn’t compete - a family emergency, race cancellation and incomplete conditioning and training volume for the distance, Scott’s will was stronger and for 15:50 hours he pushed on with the determination to finish.
While this Ironman didn’t exactly go according to plan, Scott looks forward to another opportunity to crush this distance.
For those who think they ‘can’t run:’
“Don’t put yourself in a box. Don’t speak that into reality. At one point, I was you. So who is to say you can’t do it too?!
Start by walking a block.
The next week, walk two blocks.
Next week, run a block.
Then run two blocks.
Then three.
Keep at it and see how much you’ve changed within 3, 6, 9 months.” - Scott Thompson
On setting goals:
"Burn the boats. Set a goal, and give yourself no way out. Tell your friends. Tell your family. Hold yourself accountable. It's gonna be tough, but you will learn so much about yourself and how you can overcome life's most difficult challenges. This will help you far beyond training, extending into the real world and real problems.
Even if you have a big goal, break that up into smaller goals and let yourself feel the high of positive reinforcement of achieving your smaller goals. Then, keep going." - Scott Thompson
For those curious about hybrid training:
"We want to challenge ourselves and push our mind and body, challenging the barriers of what fitness means.
Before, we’d look up to someone for being strong OR fast.
Today, we look up to athletes who have a combination of these traits, doing insane same day feats like a powerlifting PR and a marathon within hours.
Not too long ago we thought it was impossible to do this.
This sport is very inspiring because it shows us what humans are truly capable of - and so, what WE ourselves are capable of.” - Scott Thompson
(Pictured: Better Body Competition Plates | Sets of Two)
For beginner hybrid athletes looking to follow in Scott’s footsteps, here’s a breakdown of a typical week in Scott’s training schedule along with tips to make the most out of each session.
Tip: Start the week strong with a focus on building leg power. Include compound movements such as squats and lunges. For track training, focus on interval sprints to build speed and stamina.
Tip: Engage different muscle groups with various strength training exercises. Include exercises like bench press, pull-ups, and shoulder presses for a comprehensive upper body workout.
Tip: Give your muscles a break from the heavy lifting, but keep your body active with a light, easy run in Zone 2 to maintain endurance and keep the blood flowing.
Tip: Full body hypertrophy workouts are great for muscle building. Combine this with a tempo run to enhance your cardiovascular fitness.
Tip: Adequate rest is crucial for muscle recovery and overall performance. Use this day to hydrate, stretch, and mentally prepare for the upcoming training sessions.
Tip: Have a full-body strength workout to maintain muscle mass and strength. Follow up with a solid state long run.
Tip: Complete rest allows your body to recover and build strength. Engage in restorative activities you enjoy and prepare yourself mentally for another week of training.
“The Omni Arms are a Power Rack attachment that give you so much versatility in your training. These plate-loaded arms mimic the adjustable handle seen on other gym equipment and can be positioned vertically, horizontally, or other directions for diverse dynamic workouts.”
We hope this feature helps you discover the transformative impact hybrid training can have on your physical and mental well-being - just like Scott did.
Unlock your ultimate potential by integrating diverse strength and endurance workouts into your routine, equipped by Better Body.
(Pictured: Better Body Omni Arms and Power Rack)
]]>Instead, they wear the sweat and grit from their intense training sessions as badges of honor.
Their superhuman capabilities are showcased when they push the boundaries of their physical and mental capacities, inspiring the rest of us to redefine what we once deemed as our "limits."
Enter the world of hybrid athletes — a breed of sportsmen and sportswomen who shatter the silos of traditional training. These individuals don't box themselves into a single discipline. Instead, they blend the strength of a powerlifter with the endurance of a marathoner, the agility of a gymnast with the speed of a sprinter. Their holistic approach to fitness challenges the norm and proves that versatility doesn't mean sacrificing expertise in any one domain.
Why is their story so compelling? Because it's not just about breaking records or earning titles. It's a narrative of resilience, of pushing past personal demons and societal expectations. In a world where specialization is often seen as the key to mastery, hybrid athletes like Fergus Crawley remind us that embracing a broader spectrum of challenges can lead to a more profound understanding of our capabilities.
So, as we spotlight Fergus Crawley, let's dive deeper into what it truly means to be a hybrid athlete and how such athletes inspire us to chase after a more comprehensive and ambitious version of our fitness goals.
To the uninitiated, hybrid training might sound like a buzzword, but it's much more than that.
This dynamic approach to fitness isn't about excelling in just one domain; it's about pushing boundaries in multiple athletic pursuits.
A hybrid athlete doesn't just settle for lifting heavy weights or running marathons—they aim to do both, and do them exceptionally well.
It's the amalgamation of strength, endurance, agility, and mental fortitude, painting a comprehensive picture of overall fitness that can't be achieved with just one training discipline alone.
For Fergus, the journey to the pinnacle of hybrid athleticism wasn't a linear path paved with golden milestones. It was filled with its share of valleys and peaks.
At 20, when many young adults are navigating the journey of early adulthood, Fergus struggled with his mental health, leading to a suicide attempt. Crawley turned his personal adversities into a purpose, using his past as a catapult towards a brighter future.
Throughout his time in competitive powerlifting, Fergus Crawley participated in eight prominent events, clinching the gold medal in five. Only twice did he not secure a spot on the podium. The pinnacle of his powerlifting journey was his triumphant victory in the Junior division at the 2016 Global Powerlifting Committee (GPC) European Championships. Competing in the -82.5kg weight class, he amassed a remarkable total of 600kg/1,322.7lb.
Like many of us, his passion for powerlifting became one of the pillars for his mental health recovery. His journey is a reminder that the mental battles we face can be as challenging as the physical ones, but both can be overcome with resilience and dedication.
His shift towards becoming a hybrid athlete was fueled, in part, by a personal mission: to amplify the conversation surrounding men's mental health and the pressing issue of suicide prevention.
The transformation from a competition winning powerlifter to a world renowned hybrid athlete is no small feat.
When most people would be content with achieving a 1,200-pound powerlifting total, Fergus wasn't. He followed it up with a sub-12-hour Iron Man.
He later embarked on a 'Double Brutal' — a herculean challenge set in the rugged terrains of Snowdonia, Wales, encompassing a 289-mile, non-stop triathlon. Faced with mechanical failures and the sheer physical and mental exhaustion of the task, Crawley still managed to persist, clocking in at over 21 hours on his bike and pushing forward even at the 34-hour mark.
This isn't just about athleticism. It's about the metamorphosis of a man who once doubted his worth, to one who regularly challenges the boundaries of human endurance. It's a manifestation of Crawley's philosophy that setbacks are not representative of one's identity, and that with reflection, resilience, and a focus on continual improvement, one can achieve feats previously deemed unimaginable.
Stepping into the shoes of a hybrid athlete requires a balanced approach to strength, agility, and endurance. Drawing inspiration from Fergus Crawley's intense training regime, here's a guide to incorporating these workouts into your routine, with tips to perfect each exercise and recommendations for equipment to elevate your training:
Deadlifts: This fundamental exercise engages multiple muscle groups, emphasizing the back, legs, and core.
Tip: Ensure your back remains straight, pushing through the heels and engaging the glutes and hamstrings. As the weight increases, protective floor mats can prevent potential floor damage.
(Equipment Recommendation: Invest in multi-purpose equipment like the Better Body Power Rack, Weight Barbell and Weight Plates as well as high-quality floor mats to protect your gym floor and provide a stable surface.)
Box Jumps: Enhance your explosive power and improve leg strength and coordination.
Tip: Start with a soft bend in the knees and use your arms for momentum. As you jump, drive the knees up and land softly on the balls of your feet.
Pull-Ups: Challenge your upper body strength and endurance.
Tip: Keep your core engaged and avoid using momentum to swing up. As you pull yourself up, visualize pulling your elbows down to the floor for better engagement.
Hill Sprints: This cardiovascular workout combines speed and incline to elevate heart rate and improve leg strength.
Tip: Lean slightly forward when sprinting uphill, driving your knees up and pushing off with the balls of your feet. High-grip running shoes ensure stability and reduce the risk of slipping.
Back Squats: A powerlifting classic, back squats target the quads, glutes, and core.
Tip: Ensure your feet are shoulder-width apart. As you descend, keep the chest up and knees tracking over the toes.
(Equipment Recommendation: The Better Body Squat Rack provides safety, especially when training with heavier weights.)
Emulating Fergus Crawley's spirit means not just adopting his workouts but embracing the discipline, determination, and commitment he brings to each session.
Equip yourself with the right tools, train with purpose, and always remember to push beyond what you believe to be your limits.
Shop our best sellers today.
]]>Bryan Johnson, a tech entrepreneur and biohacking enthusiast, undoubtedly belongs to the latter group, on the extreme side.
At 45, Johnson claims to have reversed his biological age, boasting the heart of a 37-year-old and the lung capacity of an 18-year-old.
But how does he achieve this, and what can fitness enthusiasts learn from his regimen?
Johnson's journey into the realm of biohacking began with a simple yet profound desire: to optimize his health and extend his lifespan. His $2 million-a-year anti-aging program, known as Project Blueprint, is a testament to his dedication. It's not just about looking young; it's about feeling young, being agile, and maintaining optimal health.
Bryan Johnson's fitness regimen is a blend of strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular exercises. While his approach is tailored to his unique goals, you can draw inspiration from his routine to enhance your own workouts.
Moderate Intensity: Johnson aims to keep his heart rate between 106 and 159 beats per minute for roughly four and a half hours a week. This can be achieved with steady-state cardio exercises.
High Intensity: He also pushes his heart rate above 159 beats per minute for 90 to 150 minutes per week. This can be replicated with high-intensity interval training (HIIT) sessions.
The Better Body Air Bike is perfect for such workouts, allowing you to alternate between intense bursts and recovery periods.
Johnson's routine emphasizes working both the front and back of the body for a balanced physique. For these exercises, the Better Body Weight Barbell and Better Body Bumper Plates can be essential.
For those looking to replicate his strength exercises, our Adjustable Power Exercise Bench provides the versatility needed for a range of movements. And if you're aiming to build a complete home gym setup, don't forget the Better Body Power Rack with Pull Up Bar – a perfect addition for compound exercises and pull-ups.
Flexibility is a cornerstone of Johnson's routine. He incorporates exercises like the weighted hamstring stretch, couch stretch, and hip flexor stretch. These exercises not only improve flexibility but also aid in injury prevention and overall mobility.
To enhance these stretches, consider using resistance bands or light weights to add a bit of challenge.
Johnson doesn't neglect his core. With exercises like leg raises, oblique touches, and back extensions, he ensures a strong and stable midsection.
A strong core is essential for almost every physical activity, from lifting weights to daily chores.
Perhaps the most important takeaway from Johnson's routine is his consistency. He exercises for 45 to 60 minutes, seven days a week. While this might seem intense, it underscores the importance of regular physical activity for optimal health.
Bryan Johnson's approach to health and fitness might seem extreme, but it's rooted in a simple truth: our bodies are capable of incredible things when given the right tools and training. Whether you're a seasoned fitness enthusiast or just starting out, there's something to be learned from his journey.
From a turbulent past to mastering the world of obstacle course racing, Hunter's story is a testament to the transformative power of fitness.
Dive into the life of a man who turned adversity into strength, and discover how you too can channel your inner superhero.
Hunter's early years were marked by struggles with attention deficit disorder, substance abuse, and brushes with the law.
These challenges set the stage for a remarkable redemption story.
During a rehab stint, a logging job in Montana's vast landscapes began to shape Hunter’s physique and instill discipline.
The allure of Los Angeles soon followed, with modeling opportunities and a hedonistic lifestyle in Malibu. But a fateful decision to participate in a local Spartan Race saw him finish just eight minutes behind world champion Hobie Call despite several beers that morning - igniting a spark that would forever change his trajectory. "That race was a wake-up call. It showed me what I was truly capable of," Hunter reflects.
Hunter's physique, a blend of strength, speed, and agility, makes him a standout in obstacle course racing and HYROX competitions. The supreme example of a hybrid athlete - someone who excels across multiple athletic disciplines, combining the best of strength, endurance, and agility. HYROX fits perfectly into this mold, pushing athletes beyond their limits. "HYROX is the ultimate test, challenging every ounce of your strength and endurance," Hunter shares.
Hunter's achievements extend beyond magazine covers and sponsorships. While his titles are impressive, it's his transformative journey that truly inspires. Known in the circuit as "The Sheriff," Hunter's story is about more than accolades; it's about turning life around and serving as a beacon of hope for many.
For those inspired by Hunter's journey and looking to emulate his training regimen, here are three tips to get you started:
An essential exercise to build upper body strength. For those without access to a rope, incorporate pull-ups into your routine using the Better Body Power Rack with Pull Up Bar. Ensure your grip is firm and engage your core for stability. This will maximize results and minimize injury.
Boost your stamina with intense cardio sessions on the Better Body Air Bike. It's not just about building muscle; it's about building endurance. Remember to maintain a steady pace and gradually increase intensity to build endurance effectively.
Focus on compound exercises like squats and rows. Enhance your strength training sessions with the Better Body Weight Barbell and Plates for a comprehensive workout. When using the weight barbell and weight plates, maintain proper posture and alignment to ensure effective muscle engagement and prevent strain.
Hunter McIntyre's journey reminds us that within every challenge lies an opportunity.
It's about harnessing our inner strength, pushing past our perceived limits, and emerging stronger than ever.
As you take on your fitness journey, remember that with discipline, focus, and the right tools, you can transform challenges into triumphs.
Let Hunter's story inspire you to explore your potential and consider integrating Better Body Equipment into your training regimen.
After all, there's a superhero in all of us, waiting to be unleashed.
]]>Here are 3 major lessons we took away from Chris’ recent podcast on Modern Wisdom with Chris Williamson.
Chris's battle with an autoimmune disease in 2018 was a turning point in his life. This diagnosis, coming just four weeks out from his Olympia prep, threw him into a whirlwind of emotions and uncertainties. The looming fear of falling sick again and the potential end of his bodybuilding career consumed his every thought.
Chris's initial reaction mirrored what Chris Williamson, the podcast host, describes as the trend of ‘cynicism as a safety blanket.’ This is a guarded response, a defense mechanism that sets individuals up against potential disappointments. It acts as a shield, protecting one preemptively from perceived threats. For instance, adopting beliefs like "all relationships end in heartbreak" can deter one from seeking meaningful connections, thereby avoiding potential heartbreak. Or, thinking "everything is terrible, and nothing will get better" provides an excuse for not striving harder. This mindset offers a deceptive comfort: if you never truly try, you never truly fail.
For Chris, this cynicism manifested in a debilitating fear. He was trapped in a mindset that constantly reminded him of his vulnerability to sickness, making him believe he had no control over his health and that everything he had worked for could be taken away in an instant. This fear then morphed into denial, a state where he constantly reassured himself with thoughts like "I'm not going to get sick." But this denial, rooted in a sense of lack and avoidance, kept him in a reactive state, always on edge, always anticipating the worst.
However, a mere affirmation of "I am healthy" wasn't the solution either. It didn't provide the solace he sought because deep down, he was still uncertain about the future. It was only when Chris embraced a mindset of surrender, accepting the unpredictability of life, that he found peace. He realized that while he couldn't control everything, he could control his response. He could take proactive steps for his well-being, but without the burden of unrealistic expectations.
In this state of surrender, Chris learned to focus on the present, cherishing each moment and prioritizing what truly mattered. He understood that life's uncertainties are inevitable, but living in constant fear or denial isn't the answer. Instead, embracing the present, accepting the uncontrollable, and focusing on the controllable is the way forward.
Mental Health is not a one-and-done thing to achieve. It's an ongoing practice, akin to doing reps in the gym. Just as physical strength requires consistent effort and dedication, mental well-being demands continuous self-love, understanding, and introspection.
In his earlier days, Chris's inner voice was dominated by anxiety, constantly projecting unhealed wounds from the past onto the future. This voice was always on the lookout, fearing that past traumas would resurface and repeat themselves. It was a voice that, while not overtly self-deprecating, set impossibly high standards. Phrases like "You should be able to do this" might seem innocuous, but they carried an underlying tone of shame, subtly suggesting that he wasn't living up to his potential.
However, with time and conscious effort, Chris's inner narrative began to shift. Thanks to the continuous work he put into his mental well-being, his inner voice transformed from one of anxiety to one filled with empathy and compassion for himself. He began to recognize and challenge the unrealistic standards he had set. These standards weren't even truly his; they were based on an idolized perception others had of him. The calm, cool, collected "CBUM" that many admired was a facade. He felt the need to maintain this image and be this mythical character - a product of societal expectations and personal pressures stemming from his childhood, where he perceived his father as the epitome of stoicism and perfection.
But beneath this facade, Chris is, at his core, an emotional being. For years, he denied this emotional side, feeling the need to fit into the mold of the untouchable "CBUM." However, as he dove deeper into his mental health journey, he realized the importance of integrating all facets of his personality. He began to embrace and showcase his vulnerabilities, allowing them to surface in conversations and challenging the preconceived notions people had of him. By doing so, he shattered the illusion of perfection, making it clear that he wasn't the unerring figure many believed him to be. Instead, he was, and is, human, with anxieties, imperfections, and emotions.
Chris's understanding of a "Champion Mentality" has undergone a profound evolution over the years. In the beginning, his definition was straightforward — it was all about winning. Victory, in its most traditional sense, was the ultimate goal. However, as he delved deeper into his craft and faced the myriad challenges that came with it, his perspective began to shift. Winning was no longer just about standing atop a podium; it was about the resilience to keep going, no matter the odds.
This transitioned into what Chris describes as a "no quit mentality." It's about confronting and accepting the fears, doubts, and thoughts that constantly swirl in one's mind, yet choosing to persevere. External events, no matter how daunting, don't dictate the actions of a true champion. Instead, champions are steered by their inner strength, by who they are at their core. They don't waver in the face of adversity; they rise, driven by an indomitable spirit.
But Chris's understanding didn't stop evolving there. He realized that being a champion isn't just about personal elevation. True champions uplift those around them. They recognize that if they're in a position to inspire and motivate others to reach greater heights, that in itself is a testament to their championship status. It's not about the selfish pursuit of personal glory; it's about fostering a community where everyone strives for excellence, supporting and elevating each other.
In essence, for Chris, being a champion is a holistic journey. It's about personal growth, resilience, and the collective upliftment of those around him. It's a mindset, a way of life, and a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and community.
If Chris could only do 10 exercises for the rest of his life, here’s what he would do.
Barbell Back Squats: Using the Better Body Weight Barbell, this compound movement targets the quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, and lower back. Ensure a straight back and proper depth to maximize muscle engagement.
Deadlifts: A full-body exercise that primarily targets the hamstrings, glutes, and lower back. Maintain a neutral spine and engage the core throughout the lift to prevent injury.
Pullups (Neutral Grip): Using the Better Body Power Rack, pullups with a neutral grip emphasize the lats, rhomboids, and biceps. Ensure a full range of motion, extending the arms fully and pulling up until the chin is above the bar.
Incline Dumbbell Press: Performed on the Heavy Duty Bench, this exercise targets the upper pectorals and front deltoids. Keep the elbows at a 45-degree angle to the body and press upwards in a controlled motion.
Seated Dumbbell Shoulder Press: A movement that works the deltoids and triceps. Ensure a straight back and press the dumbbells vertically without arching the spine.
Close Grip Flat Bench Press: This variation of the bench press emphasizes the triceps while still engaging the chest. Keep the hands closer than shoulder-width apart and maintain a controlled motion throughout.
Dumbbell Curl: Using Better Body Rubber Hex Dumbbells, this isolation exercise targets the biceps. Ensure a full range of motion, keeping the elbows stationary.
Barbell Bent Over Row: A compound movement that targets the lats, rhomboids, and traps. Maintain a slight bend in the knees and a straight back, pulling the barbell towards the lower ribcage.
Hanging Leg Raise: Performed on the Power Rack, this exercise strengthens the rectus abdominis and obliques. Ensure a controlled motion, raising the legs without using momentum.
Lateral Raises: An isolation exercise for the deltoids, especially the lateral or "side" delt. Using dumbbells, keep the arms slightly bent and raise them to shoulder height in a controlled motion.
Chris Bumstead's story is not just about bodybuilding. It's a universal tale of resilience, self-discovery, and the relentless pursuit of one's passion. It's a reminder that each of us has untapped potential, waiting to be discovered.
So, whether you're a budding bodybuilder, someone on a fitness journey, or just someone seeking inspiration, remember Chris's words: "Pressure is privilege." Embrace challenges, lean into your vulnerabilities, and always strive for growth.
And if you're looking to elevate your fitness game, explore our range of top-tier equipment. Dive deeper into Chris's insights by watching the full podcast here. And remember, every champion's journey starts with a single step. Take yours today.
For a deeper dive into Chris's insights, watch the full podcast here. And if you're inspired to start or upgrade your home gym, check out our best sellers today.
With the convenience of working out anytime, the comfort of your own space, and the cost savings over time, it's no wonder more fitness enthusiasts are opting to build their own home gyms.
However, setting up a home gym isn't just about buying equipment and starting to work out. It's crucial to gym-proof your space to ensure safety, efficiency, and longevity of your equipment. At Better Body Equipment, we offer a range of products designed to help you create the perfect home gym, no matter your space or budget.
Before you start buying equipment, it's important to assess your available space.
Do you have a spare room, a garage, or just a corner in your living room? The space you have will determine the type and size of equipment you can accommodate.
For instance, if you're working with a smaller space, our adjustable dumbbells are a great choice as they offer a range of weights in one compact design.
Remember, your home gym should be in a location that motivates you to work out. Natural light, ventilation, and privacy are some factors to consider when choosing the location.
One aspect often overlooked when setting up a home gym is floor protection.
Heavy gym equipment and intense workouts can damage your floors over time.
That's why we recommend using our Better Body Gym Floor Mats or Rubber Tiles. These products not only protect your floors from scratches and dents but also provide a safe, non-slip surface for your workouts. Plus, they're easy to install and clean, making them a practical addition to any home gym.
A cluttered workout space can be a safety hazard and a demotivator. That's why proper storage solutions are essential. Our Better Body Bumper Plate and Bar Rack, as well as our 3-Tier Barbell Storage Rack, are designed to keep your equipment organized and easily accessible. They not only save space but also prolong the life of your equipment by preventing damage.
Choosing the right equipment is crucial to achieving your fitness goals. Consider what types of workouts you enjoy and what your fitness goals are.
For strength training, our Better Body Weight Barbell and Bumper Plates are excellent choices.
If you're looking for a full-body workout, our Air Bike offers a challenging cardio and strength training session.
For those who want to build muscle, our Heavy-Duty Adjustable Bench and Power Rack with Pull Up Bar allow for a variety of strength training exercises.
Remember, it's not about filling your space with as much equipment as possible, but choosing the right pieces that offer versatility and align with your fitness goals.
Safety should always be a priority when setting up your home gym.
Ensure your equipment is set up correctly and that you have enough space to use it without risk of injury. All our products at Better Body Equipment are designed with safety in mind, from the secure storage racks to the non-slip surface of our floor mats.
Building a home gym is an exciting journey that can bring the joy of fitness into the comfort of your own home. By understanding your space, protecting your floors, organizing your equipment, and choosing the right equipment, you can create a safe and efficient workout environment.
At Better Body Equipment, we're committed to helping you on this journey. Our range of products is designed to cater to any space, any budget, and any fitness goal. Start gym-proofing your space today and take the first step towards a healthier, fitter you.
Explore our product range and let's build your dream home gym together.
]]>We believe that training can transform lives - and that’s why we've committed to helping fitness enthusiasts create their own personal workout spaces.
We understand that a home gym is more than just a convenience - it's a personal sanctuary and a commitment to physical and mental health.
That's why we're excited to launch our Home Gym Build Feature series, where we spotlight individuals who've taken the leap to build their own home gyms.
Today, we're thrilled to spotlight Ryan Jensen, a true outdoorsman living in northern British Columbia - whose love for fitness is not just a hobby, but a necessity.
Ryan's fitness journey is deeply rooted in his love for outdoor activities. "Being in shape and strong is not only necessary but can end up being a matter of life or death in the backcountry," he says. Inspired by Bert Sorin's man cave garage/gym, Ryan envisioned a space where he could train without limitations. His main requirement? A squat rack, specifically the Better Body Standard Squat Version 2.0.
Ryan's home gym, nestled in a 230 sqft space that was once an old storage room in his basement, is a result of careful planning and hard work. Despite the challenges of framing square walls in an unsquare 80’s home and undoing some questionable DIY ideas from previous owners, Ryan persevered.
At the heart of Ryan's gym are a few essential pieces of equipment. "Most important was a bar and squat rack. I love to squat and deadlift. After that the bench and adjustable dumbbells hit pretty much everything else," he shares.
Ryan's must-have pieces from Better Body Equipment include the Premium Adjustable Dumbbell Set, the Better Body Power Bundle, and the Adjustable Premium Exercise Bench.
To make the best use of his available space, Ryan kept everything against the walls and left the middle space open. This arrangement allows him to easily move the bench in and out, lunge, deadlift, and more.
Ryan's gym has a utilitarian feel, reflecting his "carry the boats" mentality. He's incorporated a Canadian flag, a safe, and a desk with monitors into the space, creating an environment that is both functional and motivational. Ryan says, "I’m not too big on creating inviting spaces. My gym has more of a utilitarian feel. I grew up with my dad's rusty weights in the garage. But as mentioned earlier, I will build something like Bert Sorin’s garage gym when I have the space to do it."
With a budget of about $5k, Ryan prioritized investing in quality equipment. "I spent more money on the equipment because it’s the most important aspect. The gym space turned out really nice but if all I could afford was to knock down the wall to make room that would have sufficed just fine," he explains.
Having a home gym has had a tremendously positive impact on Ryan's fitness routine and overall lifestyle. "It’s easy to make an excuse to miss the gym. But when you literally live at the gym there’s no excuse," he says.
His advice to someone considering building their own home gym? "Anything is better than nothing. If you have room to lay out a yoga mat you have a home gym."
Ryan's journey from envisioning a home gym to making it a reality is a testament to his dedication and passion for fitness.
His story serves as an inspiration for all of us, reminding us that with the right equipment and mindset, we can create a fitness sanctuary right in our homes.
Follow Ryan’s journey by checking out his Instagram.
Start your fitness journey today with Better Body Equipment.
]]>Hydration plays a vital role in maintaining energy levels, supporting muscle recovery, and enhancing overall performance.
In this blog post, we dive into the importance of hydration, the best drinks to keep you hydrated, and how to remind yourself to stay hydrated.
Creatine is a molecule that's produced in the body and is also found in foods like meat, fish, and eggs. It's well-known for enhancing strength, increasing lean muscle mass, and helping muscles recover more quickly during exercise. A post-workout drink that includes creatine, can be beneficial for muscle recovery and growth. Mix it up with your favorite beverage in your Better Body Insulated Shaker Cup 2.0, which keeps your drink cold for up to 24 hours.
During a workout, your body loses electrolytes through sweat. Electrolyte-infused waters, like can help replenish the electrolytes lost during a workout. They're often low in sugar and calories, making them a good option for those watching their intake.
Sports drinks like Gatorade or Powerade are designed to help replenish fluids and electrolytes lost during intense workouts. They also provide carbohydrates for energy. However, they can be high in sugars, so it's best to consume them in moderation.
Coconut water is a natural source of electrolytes, including potassium, sodium, and magnesium. It's a great natural alternative to sports drinks. Just be sure to choose versions without added sugars.
You can make your own natural electrolyte drink at home using ingredients like water, a pinch of salt, a squeeze of lemon or orange for vitamin C, and a small amount of honey or maple syrup for natural sugars. This can be a cost-effective and natural way to stay hydrated.
Protein drinks can help repair and build muscles after a workout. They can be easily prepared with a scoop of protein powder and water or milk in your Better Body Insulated Shaker Cup 2.0… or better yet, as part of a nutritious smoothie.
Branched-Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs) are a group of three essential amino acids: leucine, isoleucine, and valine. They are called 'branched-chain' due to their chemical structure and are essential because the body cannot make them, so they must be obtained from food or supplements. BCAAs play a significant role in muscle development and repair, making them a popular supplement for hydration and muscle development among fitness enthusiasts.
Muscle Growth: Leucine, one of the BCAAs, has been shown to stimulate muscle protein synthesis, which is the process of making muscle.
Decrease Muscle Soreness: BCAAs can help reduce muscle damage during workouts, leading to less muscle soreness and faster recovery.
Reduce Exercise Fatigue: Your muscles use BCAAs during exercise, causing levels in your blood to decrease. When blood levels of BCAAs decline, levels of the essential amino acid tryptophan in your brain increase. In the brain, tryptophan is converted to serotonin, a brain chemical that is thought to contribute to the development of fatigue during exercise.
BCAAs can be taken before, during, or after a workout for muscle recovery and reduction of fatigue. They usually come in powder form which you can mix into your drinks of choice, makes it easy to incorporate BCAAs into your hydration strategy.
The Air Bike is an intense workout equipment that can help you burn calories and improve cardiovascular health. However, this extreme workout can lead to significant fluid and electrolyte loss through sweat. Therefore, it's crucial to rehydrate during and after your workout to replenish lost fluids and electrolytes.
The Adjustable Premium Exercise Bench is a versatile piece of equipment for strength training and muscle building. Whether you're doing bench presses, rows, or curls, staying hydrated can help you maintain your energy levels and recover faster.
Staying hydrated is essential, but it's also easy to forget when you're focused on your workout. Here are some tips to remind yourself to hydrate:
Staying hydrated is crucial for optimal training performance.
Whether you're deep into a powerlifting program, or are just getting started with your fitness journey, don’t forget to stay hydrated!
CrossFit has emerged as a game-changer in the fitness industry, offering a unique blend of strength and conditioning exercises that challenge the body in new and exciting ways. This high-intensity workout program is designed to push your physical limits and transform your fitness routine. In this article, we'll debunk some common myths about CrossFit, highlight its benefits, key exercises, and how to incorporate it into your home workouts.
CrossFit is a branded fitness regimen created by Greg Glassman, consisting of functional and constantly varied movements performed at high intensity. These functional movements are ones you perform every day — lifting objects, squatting, jumping, or stretching exercises. A CrossFit workout takes these everyday movements and leverages them for a workout by adding higher weights, faster movements, or longer distances.
The idea is to increase the overall power necessary to perform these movements, building muscle and strength, improving flexibility, and increasing stamina.
CrossFit is a high-intensity workout combined with function. These movements build strength and endurance, while having practical applications within your everyday life.
It isn’t just for people with athletic backgrounds. The functional benefits help people of all ages. Strength training is beneficial to support our bodies through activities needed in everyday life. CrossFit workouts are designed to help build strength and ensure that you work towards your goals.
1) CrossFit is dangerous:
Like any sport or fitness program, CrossFit carries its share of risk. However, the majority of injuries that occur are often due to athletes pushing beyond their limits rather than the program itself. With proper coaching and programming, CrossFit can be safely practiced by anyone.
2) You need to have an athletic background to do CrossFit:
CrossFit is designed to fit everyone’s ability level, regardless of their athletic background. The shared passion for fitness and health is what connects all CrossFitters.
3) You need to be 'in shape' to do CrossFit:
CrossFit is scalable to the abilities of the athlete, meaning that anyone, regardless of their current fitness level, can start CrossFit. The workouts can be modified to suit your abilities and gradually increased as your fitness improves.
4) CrossFit isn't for the elderly:
Thanks to the scalability of CrossFit programming, older athletes can also participate in the workouts. The exercises can be modified to take into account range of motion, mobility, and health issues, allowing older adults to exercise safely but at a high intensity.
5) CrossFit will make women bulky:
Many women fear that CrossFit will make them bulky. However, gaining significant muscle mass requires specific training and dietary choices. CrossFit workouts, which combine cardio, weightlifting, and gymnastics, are more likely to result in a lean, toned physique than a bulky one.
Starting CrossFit can be as simple as incorporating basic exercises into your workout routine. Here are a few foundational CrossFit exercises:
Air Squats: A bodyweight squat that targets the lower body.
Push-ups: A classic bodyweight exercise that strengthens the upper body.
Pull-ups: A challenging upper body exercise that can be modified for beginners.
Kettlebell Swings: A full-body exercise that improves strength and cardiovascular fitness.
Remember, the key to CrossFit is not just about doing the exercises but doing them at a high intensity and varying them regularly.
Having the right equipment can make your CrossFit workouts more effective. At Better Body Equipment, we offer a range of products that can help you get the most out of your workouts:
This 45lbs barbell is perfect for a variety of CrossFit exercises, from deadlifts to cleans.
Available in sets of two (10-45lbs), these plates are essential for weightlifting exercises.
An excellent tool for cardio and strength, the Air Bike can help you improve your endurance—a key aspect of CrossFit.
This exercise bench is versatile and can be used for a range of exercises, from bench press to step-ups.
Ideal for strength training exercises, this power rack can help you safely perform squats, bench presses, and more.
Incorporating CrossFit into your home workout routine doesn't have to be a daunting task. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
1) Start Small: If you're new to CrossFit, it's best to start with one or two basic exercises. This could be functional movements like air squats, push-ups, or kettlebell swings. The goal is to get your body accustomed to the style of CrossFit workouts, which often involve high-intensity, functional movements
As Mat Fraser, a five-time CrossFit Games champion, says, "Hard Work Pays Off." Read more about Mat Fraser's inspiring journey here.
CrossFit offers a unique approach to fitness that can help you improve your strength, agility, and endurance.
With the right equipment and mindset, you can start your CrossFit journey today.
So why wait?
Check out our range of products and start your CrossFit journey today.
Here are 3 lessons we can learn from Mat Fraser… and tips on how to train like the Fittest Man on earth.
Mat Fraser's journey to the top wasn't a straight path. He began his athletic career in Olympic weightlifting, where he was a junior national champion. However, a back injury in 2009 forced him to retire from weightlifting and led him to discover CrossFit. Instead of being disheartened, Fraser used these experiences as fuel to push harder. His determination paid off when he won his first CrossFit Games championship in 2016. He continued to dominate the sport, setting a record for the most consecutive wins.
Fraser's success is a testament to his relentless work ethic, discipline, and mental toughness. He is known for his grueling training regimen, often training for hours each day with a focus on every aspect of fitness, from strength and endurance to agility and flexibility. His dedication to his craft is evident in his motto, "Hard Work Pays Off" (HWPO), which he often shares with his followers on Instagram .
Fraser's training regimen is intense and requires consistency. It's not about doing a lot at once, but rather about doing a little bit every day that leads to big results over time. This consistency in training is what has allowed Fraser to maintain his top performance level and continue to set records in the sport.
Perhaps the most important lesson we can learn from Fraser is the importance of mindset. He believes that our mindset can greatly influence our actions and outcomes. A positive and determined mindset can help us overcome challenges, push past our limits, and achieve our goals.
Mat Fraser's training regimen is a testament to his dedication and commitment to fitness. His workouts are intense, varied, and designed to challenge every aspect of his physical capabilities. Here's how you can incorporate elements of Fraser's training into your own routine, using Better Body Equipment's top-notch gear.
Fraser's routine includes a mix of compound and isolation exercises to build strength and muscle. Our Hex Dumbbell Set is perfect for replicating these workouts. Ranging from 5 to 50 lbs, these dumbbells allow for progressive overload, a key factor in Fraser's strength development. Try incorporating exercises like dumbbell snatches, bench press, and lunges into your routine to build functional strength.
Fraser's training also includes powerlifting routines, focusing on the big three: squats, deadlifts, and bench press. Our Better Body Power Bundle Pro is the ideal choice for these workouts. The bundle includes a weight barbell that can handle up to 700lbs of steel and a standard squat rack that can withstand a max load of 1700lbs. These tools will help you safely perform these powerful lifts and build explosive strength.
Fraser's workouts are not limited to standing or floor exercises. He often incorporates bench workouts into his routine to target different muscle groups. Our Adjustable Power Exercise Bench is a must-have for these exercises. With 9 adjustable back settings and 3 adjustable seat settings, it gives you full control over your angles, allowing you to fine-tune your lifts and connect with those hard-to-target muscles. Try exercises like incline bench press, decline sit-ups, and bench step-ups to add variety to your workouts.
Training like Mat Fraser means pushing your limits, embracing challenges, and staying consistent. With Better Body Equipment, you have the tools you need to train hard and reach your fitness goals. Remember, as Fraser says, "Hard Work Pays Off." So, get out there and start training like a champion.
Mat Fraser's story is a powerful reminder that with hard work, determination, and the right mindset, we can all tap into our inner superhero. His journey from a career-ending injury to becoming the "Fittest Man on Earth" is a testament to his resilience and dedication. He embodies the spirit of a true athlete, constantly pushing his limits and inspiring others to do the same.
Fraser's motto, "Hard Work Pays Off," is not just a catchy phrase; it's a philosophy that he lives by. It's a call to action for all of us to strive for our best, to push past our comfort zones, and to never settle for less than we are capable of.
In the words of Mat Fraser, "It's not about winning. It's about doing my absolute best." This mindset is what makes him a real-life superhero, inspiring us all to tap into our potential and become the best versions of ourselves.
Whether you're a CrossFit enthusiast, a weightlifter, or someone just starting on your fitness journey, remember that every step you take towards your goal counts. Every rep, every set, and every workout brings you one step closer to becoming your own superhero. And with Better Body Equipment by your side, you have all the tools you need to succeed.
So, here's to the superheroes among us, to the Mat Frasers of the world who inspire us to push harder, go further, and strive for greatness. Remember, your only competition is you.
How far can you evolve yourself?
Train harder, dig deeper, and unleash your inner superhero with Better Body.
]]>Today, we turn our focus to Ronnie Coleman, a legendary figure in the world of bodybuilding and a true inspiration to fitness enthusiasts worldwide.
Bodybuilding GOAT Ronnie Coleman won Mr Olympia 8 times, and is known for his massive size and strength, with a peak weight of 300lbs or 136kg in his prime.
Born in Louisiana in 1964, Coleman started bodybuilding in college and pursued it full-time after winning his first competition. His training philosophy is based on lifting heavy weights with progressive overload.
While his incredible career was cut short by injuries, including multiple back surgeries, he continues to maintain an active lifestyle and inspires others through his motivational speeches and bodybuilding clinics. His success is attributed to his dedication, discipline, and hard work, making him an inspiration to bodybuilders and fitness enthusiasts around the world, with a legacy that continues to inspire new generations of athletes.
He is a true superhero who has captivated the hearts of millions.
“There's no secrets or magic tricks to being successful in life. It's plain and simple. Work harder than everyone else and the only way to do that is to do it. It may sound silly but it's the truth and there aint nothing to it but to do it!” Ronnie Coleman
Ronnie Coleman's rise to the top of the bodybuilding world was not a stroke of luck. It was the result of relentless hard work and unwavering perseverance.
Without perseverance, Ronnie could not have achieved some of his greatest lifts: squatting and deadlifting 800 pounds for two reps, bench pressing 495 pounds for five reps, and overhead pressing 315 pounds for 11 reps, and leg pressing 2,300-pounds for eight reps.
Train your major lifts at home with the Better Body Power Rack.
“I loved challenging myself every day. The weight room was my therapy for everyday life stresses. No matter what I was doing I always wanted to be the best.” Ronnie Coleman
Maintaining a remarkable physique like Ronnie Coleman's is no small feat. It requires consistent effort and a disciplined lifestyle.
Building a home gym will help you get more consistent. Start with a pair of adjustable dumbbells, then build up to a squat rack and bench.
During his prime, Coleman was renowned for his rigorous training routines, with his workout split being the envy of many. He trained each muscle group twice as often as his competitors, enabling him to build muscle mass and strength at a faster rate.
Unfortunately, his extreme squatting routine also led to some severe injuries.
“When you love something as much as I love bodybuilding you don't have to do much extra to push yourself, it just happens. There were some tough times and when those came up I just used my mental strength to push through knowing that my mind controlled everything.”
Ronnie Coleman
Ronnie Coleman's journey has not been without obstacles. Coleman has undergone 13 spinal surgeries that have left him with screws, cages, and bolts inserted in his back. As a result, he has lost the majority of his mobility and now requires assistance to move around.
This is a reminder that not even the GOATs are immune from injury. Prioritize your longevity and make sure you do what you can to prevent injury.
Ronnie Coleman's dedication to fitness and his pursuit of self mastery are an inspiration to us here at Better Body.
We are committed to providing high-quality gym equipment that empowers individuals to achieve their fitness goals in the comfort of their own homes.
Just as Ronnie Coleman pushed his limits in the gym, we strive to offer equipment that enables you to unleash your full potential and become your own superhero.
Remember, you have the power to achieve greatness, and we are here to support you every step of the way.
Attention all fitness lovers! Summer is just around the corner, which means it's time to consider taking your workouts to the great outdoors. With longer days mean more opportunity to switch up your routine and soak up some much-needed vitamin D.
In this blog, we'll be sharing our top 5 tips for staying active outside this summer. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or just getting started, discover fun ways to take your fitness to the next level and achieve your goals.
So grab your (minimal) workout gear and get ready to conquer the great outdoors with us!
Using your feet is one of the simplest and most effective ways to stay active outside this summer. Walking, hiking, and running are all great options that can be done almost anywhere and at any time. Get your heart pumping and your muscles working while exploring your local area and taking in the beauty of nature.
If you're just getting started, walking is a great option. It's low-impact and can be done at your own pace, making it ideal for people of all ages and fitness levels. Looking for more of a challenge? Try hiking or running. Both great ways to explore local trails and get a full-body workout while taking in stunning views.
And if you really want to step it up a notch, give rucking a try. Simply add a pair of adjustable dumbbells into a rucksack and go for a long walk - preferably uphill.
Getting on some wheels like bikes, rollerblades, and skateboards are fun activities that will get you outside and working that cardio.
Biking is a fantastic way to cover more ground and see new sights, whether you're on a leisurely ride or pushing yourself to the limit on a challenging trail. Rollerblading and skateboarding are also great options for getting around and can provide a fun, exhilarating workout that builds strength, balance, and coordination.
Don't be afraid to try something new, challenge yourself, and enjoy all the amazing benefits that come with outdoor exercise.
Getting together with friends and playing outdoor sports is another fantastic way to stay active outside during summer. Socialize and have fun while working out with your best friends.
Sports like soccer, basketball, volleyball, and frisbee all have a very low barrier to entry - all you need is a ball or frisbee and some open space.
Into more structured sports? Consider signing up for a local league or club. Softball, flag football, and ultimate frisbee leagues are all popular options that can provide a fun and competitive environment to stay active in. Whatever you prefer, getting together with friends (or strangers) is something you should absolutely add to your summer to-do list.
Getting into shape and having a blast don’t have to be mutually exclusive. Channel your inner kid this summer and choose a fun, creative workout with the jungle gyms and swings from your neighbourhood playgrounds.
From seasoned athletes to newbies, playground equipment can be adapted to any fitness level. Monkey bars, swings, and climbing structures can be used to build upper body strength, while slides and balance beams can improve core stability and balance. Even just running and playing around the playground can provide a great cardiovascular workout.
Calisthenics is a highly effective way to stay active and build muscle using just your own body weight. Classic calisthenics exercises like push-ups, pull-ups, squats, and lunges can be done alone or combined to create a full-body workout that targets all major muscle groups.
By incorporating variations of these exercises, you can customize your routine to your fitness goals and challenge yourself to improve over time. Best of all, since calisthenics can be done outside, you'll be able to enjoy the fresh air and sunshine while getting in shape.
With summer just around the corner, it's the perfect time to start exploring outdoor workouts and activities. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or just getting started, there are plenty of fun and effective ways to stay active and achieve your fitness goals.
So take your workouts outside and enjoy all the amazing benefits of outdoor exercise.
And if you need some equipment to help you get started, be sure to check out our best sellers to elevate your outdoor workouts.
]]>Are you ready to kick your fat loss journey into high gear and get shredded for summer? You've come to the right place! This sustainable fat loss guide is designed to help you shed those extra pounds in a way you can actually keep up.
This guide will cover everything you need to know to achieve your fat loss goals:
Get your mindset right by focusing on the right numbers: your progress, not your weight. Keep a journal on hand so you can stay on top of your gains. Train chest at home with the Power Bundle with Squat Rack and Bumper Plates and Heavy Duty Bench.
While there’s nothing wrong with wanting to lose body fat for aesthetic reasons, choosing one that is less focused on looks gives you more chance at succeeding.
The problem with an aesthetic-focused motivation is that it tends to be short-lived and unsustainable. While wanting to look good can be a powerful motivator, it's not enough to maintain the effort required to achieve long-term fat loss.
When your motivation is based solely on external factors, like wanting to look good in a swimsuit, it can be difficult to stay committed to healthy lifestyle changes when progress is slow or when setbacks occur.
On the other hand, having a deeper, more meaningful motivation like improving overall health, becoming stronger, increasing energy levels, or feeling more confident will lead to more sustained effort over time.
Featured: Better Body Air Bike
Want to lose body fat while still maintaining muscle mass? Incorporate the Air Bike into your routine.
Having a clear, achievable target in mind when you take on your fat loss journey is key. Remember, Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither is a shredded physique! Start by setting SMART goals — Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.
First, assess your current fitness level and body composition. Then, decide on a reasonable and healthy target for fat loss, like aiming to lose 1-2 pounds per week.
It might not sound like much, but trust us, consistent progress adds up. Avoid the temptation to set overly ambitious or unrealistic goals since they may lead to frustration, burnout, or even unhealthy habits.
By setting attainable goals, you'll be able to celebrate your achievements along the way and stay motivated throughout your journey to a leaner, more confident you.
If your goal is defined abs, you need to train for fat loss and a stronger core. Check out our ab workout at home ab workout using the Standard Squat Rack below.
To put it simply, a calorie deficit means consuming fewer calories than your body needs to maintain its current weight. This forces your body to tap into stored fat for energy, which ultimately leads to shedding those unwanted pounds. But don't worry, you won't have to starve yourself or go on a crazy crash diet!
To create a calorie deficit, start by calculating your maintenance calories, which is the number of calories your body needs to function at your current weight. There are plenty of online calculators to help you with this! Next, reduce your daily caloric intake by a reasonable amount — say, 300 calories less than your maintenance level. This should help you lose about 1 pound per week, which is a healthy and sustainable rate.
Be mindful of your food choices, focusing on nutrient-dense whole foods to fuel your body while staying within your calorie limit.
And remember, we are humans meant to enjoy life - not robots! Don't feel bad if you enjoy a treat. Moderation is key!
The key to effective fat loss is finding the best exercise program tailored specifically to you. There's no one-size-fits-all approach, so it's important to experiment and find what works best for you.
Make sure you’re including a mix of cardio (like HIIT, running, or cycling) and strength training to help burn calories, improve your cardiovascular fitness and boost your metabolism.
Stay consistent by keeping a pair of Adjustable Dumbbells and a Foldable Exercise Bench on hand.
Aim to work out at least 3-5 times per week, and listen to your body, adjusting the intensity and duration of your workouts as needed.
Keeping an eye on your progress helps you stay motivated while allowing you to identify what's working and what might need tweaking in your approach.
To track how you’re doing, you can record your measurements or even take progress photos. Once a week should be enough to give you a clear picture if things are working.
If you notice a plateau or if your results start to stall, don't panic! Make some adjustments to your nutrition or workout plan. Surprise your muscles by doing more accessory movements, adding more cardio (try Jump Rope) or tweaking your nutrition.
This way, you'll be able to overcome any challenges and continue on the path to a leaner, healthier you!
We hope this fat-loss guide has given you valuable insights on how to achieve your fitness goals.
Remember, it's essential to set realistic goals, stay in a calorie deficit, and work out strategically to see sustainable results.
And if you're looking for the best home gym equipment to complement your fat loss journey, be sure to check out our best sellers.
We offer a wide range of high-quality equipment to help you reach your fitness goals and transform your body. Let's make this summer your best one yet!
]]>Traveling is an exciting adventure! But when it comes to keeping up with our fitness, being away from your regular routine can definitely make things challenging.
The good news is that even if you’re on the go, there are still plenty of simple and effective ways to maintain your fitness goals.
From exploring your new surroundings to strategically trying the local cuisine, we'll share 4 tips to help you stay on track and feel your best — no matter where you are.
Discovering new places can be an enriching experience, but it can also disrupt your healthy habits and make it challenging to stay in shape. That’s because when we’re removed from our normal routine and space, prioritizing fitness can end up at the bottom of our to-do list.
Finding access to a proper gym, or even basic equipment, can be harder than making that 5:00 AM flight. Plus, eating every new thing you discover and drinking until sunrise makes it virtually impossible to have the energy you need to even walk through the gym’s doors.
To help fight this, you need some travel-friendly fitness tips that won’t mess with your vacation or your workouts.
While having access to proper equipment is great, you don’t actually need all that to maintain your fitness on vacation. If you're going somewhere by plane, investing in resistance bands or booty bands is a great option.
They’re portable, lightweight, and can be used for exercises like bicep curls, glute bridges, squats, tricep extensions, and more.
One of the best ways to stay active while traveling is to explore by foot. Whether you're walking through a bustling city, hiking in the mountains, or running along the beach, there are plenty of opportunities to get your heart rate up and see the sights at the same time.
Look for a scenic route (and get familiar with the terrain and weather), wear the appropriate gear (no running sneakers on a hike!), and be sure to take breaks to sightsee.
Before you travel, it’s a great idea to research the local cuisine. Knowing what types of food are common in the area can help you plan your meals and make healthier choices without missing out on all those new foods.
If you’re still a bit worried, just make sure you’re bringing some snacks that align with your dietary needs, keep an eye on portion control, and be sure to stay hydrated.
If you’re more into van life or road trips in general, that means you have more space to bring along larger equipment. Things like a foldable bench or a good set of starter dumbbells are still pretty compact but allow you to add more targeted workouts to your routine.
Store the bench in your trunk or the back of your van and your dumbbell set under your seat, or if you have a roof rack, you can place them there.
Staying fit while traveling can be a challenge, but you can make it easier.
By following these 4 tips, you can stay active and healthy no matter where your travels take you. Remember, investing in travel-friendly fitness equipment like resistance bands or bringing along larger equipment like a foldable weight bench can make a huge difference.
So, if you’re looking to upgrade your home gym equipment, be sure to check out our best sellers to help you stay on track with your fitness goals even while on the go.
]]>Real life superheroes are among us, and they don’t need to fly or have laser vision. Their superhuman capabilities are shown when they push the limits of their physical and mental effort, inspiring the rest of us to push beyond what we think is possible within our own potential.
Physical 100 is a bingeable Netflix series released earlier this year that gives us a peek into the minds and physiques of regular people turned superhuman athletes.
100 of the fittest individuals across a vast array of disciplines living in South Korea compete in a series of challenges meant to test different types of athleticism: strength, endurance, and speed - solo, and as part of a team.
The athletes come from a variety of fields - from traditional bodybuilding and Crossfit to Olympic gold medal winning gymnasts, snowboarders and climbers, to MMA fighters, wrestlers and boxers, fitness YouTubers and cyclists.
While a powerlifter may excel at strength focused challenges, they may not be suited to win a test of endurance and agility. The aim of the series is to find the one physique that is well rounded enough to beat out all the rest, across all challenges.
Physical 100 is about so much more than the physical feats - it's also an exploration of human physical potential, teamwork and the power of a strong mindset.
In this article, we cover some of the key lessons learned from 3 incredible athletes of Physical 100.
Lessons: Intention, Versatility & Being a Real Life Superhero
Kim Min-cheol is a mountain rescuer and national ice climbing athlete who proved victorious in all but one quest.
Compared to some of the other contestants, Kim may have a more unassuming frame - but of all 100, he is a real life Superhero because of his work with the Bukhansan Special Mountain Rescue.
The everyday work he does at his job helped him beat out 99 other contestants, including an Olympic gold medal winning gymnast, in a quest to hang on to a bar the longest. One of the tasks later in the game is the climb an endless rope… something Min-cheol won with ease, appearing to not have even broken a sweat.
Min-cheol’s versatile physique was built from regularly running long distances and climbing mountains while carrying 15kg packs, and his mental tenacity fortified by the high stakes situations of rescuing injured people stuck in precarious places.
It was clear from the beginning that Kim Min-cheol’s motivation for participating in Physical 100 was to give more exposure to both his fields of mountain rescue and the sport of ice climbing. This powerful intention took him all the way to the Top 5, until unfortunately he was eliminated in the first task which favoured brute strength.
From Min-cheol we can learn to challenge ourselves with hybrid workouts to become versatile in strength and fitness, while always having a clear intention for why we do what we do.
Follow Min-cheol on Instagram.
If you want to improve your hiking or trail running performance, you need to strengthen your legs. Focus on heavy compound lifts like squats and deadlifts.
Min-cheol must have a versatile training program for ice climbing as it requires overhead strength to swing a tool, core strength to stabilize while swinging and moving upward and leg strength and endurance.
Make sure your training also includes: Pull-ups, Push-ups, Hanging Leg Raises, Grip strength, Calf Raises, Dead Hangs and Rows.
Lessons: Perseverance, Leadership
South Korean National Wrestling Team member Jang Eun-Sil quickly became a favourite because of her strength and leadership.
In the second match, which was a one-on-one battle to keep hold of a ball until the timer runs out, Eun Sil was quietly confident as her opponent, a first class sergeant, attempted (and failed) to intimidate her. She ultimately won the match and went on to be selected as the only female team leader in 10 teams.
Eun Sil and her team were often underestimated as the ‘weakest team’ because of the size of their athletes and the amount of women compared to other teams.
This underestimation was a mistake, as her team of underdogs defied expectations and won a grueling sandbag challenge that required teamwork, physical strength, balance and agility. In this challenge, team members must split responsibilities among themselves to build the bridge, move sand into bags, and farmers carry the sandbags across the bridge to dump it into their container. The team with the most sand in their container by the end of the clock would win
Eun Sil’s determination and leadership guided her team of underdogs to success.
The second time she and her team were underestimated was during a challenge to move a 1.5 ton ship. Most other teams did not believe her team would even be able to move the ship by an inch… and while Eun Sil’s team did lose, they only lost by a 2 minute margin to the team that was considered the strongest.
Often, Eun Sil would take the less glamorous tasks because she knew her other team members would excel at the other roles. She never faltered, and continued to be a strong cheerleader for her team, never letting morale down, and encouraging everyone to keep going.
From Eun Sil, we can learn to strengthen our will and bring determination to every challenge. We learn to be knowledgeable and encouraging of our peers’ strengths - because by working together well, we can achieve far greater things than we could imagine.
Lessons: Focus & Determination
Shim Euddeum is a Fitness Youtuber and former Fitness Model with 1.2 million subscribers. She shares content mostly on at home routines one can do with only minimal equipment. In the last few years, Euddeum started powerlifting and recently competed.
On Physical 100, Euddeum surprised viewers several times with her strength, proving that we cannot underestimate anyone by size or gender. She did pretty well during the first hanging challenge, beating the majority of competitors to be among the top 10 remaining and the last woman among her group.
Euddeum’s true shining moment came during the redemption round. After losing a challenge, 25 participants had a chance to come back by holding a weight 40% of their bodyweight up by rope for the longest they possibly could. As each competitor slowly dropped off one by one, she remained steadfast and rock solid, showing sheer focus, stillness and determination and completing the challenge. Euddeum won another chance to stay in the game.
Euddeum’s fitness journey started when she was involved in a serious car accident that made her realize the importance of maintaining her health. She started pilates as a way to rehabilitate herself, and continued to develop her athletic abilities ever since. Euddeum is currently training as a soccer player.
From Euddeum, we learn to develop extreme focus during high stress situations. This focus will help us overcome situations even when others underestimate us.
The athletes mentioned above are only 3 of 100 incredible individuals. There is so much more to say and admire about the athletes featured in Physical 100.
Professional MMA fighter Choo Sung Hoon’s leadership, strength and high performance despite being one of the oldest contestants showed that age should not stop us from pursuing the best version of ourselves.
Jung Hae Min’s quiet confidence throughout the series, his athleticism not given a spotlight until the last 5 rounds. His physique showed that being a professional cyclist requires immense power - not just in the lower body, but all around.
It was also very interesting to see the teamwork dynamics particularly between Yun Sung Bin and Kim Sik.
Yun Sung Bin is an Olympic Gold Medalist in skeleton racing, an intense sport requiring athletes to ride a small (3' long) sled down a frozen track - face down, headfirst, at speeds of up to 130km/hr. It's one of the most dangerous winter sports, for which Sung Bin is the first Korean gold medalist. Fellow Physical 100 contestant Kim Sik was also his coach.
During a major task selection where each team member had to choose a grueling ‘Punishment’ in the theme of Greek mythology, Kim Sik deferred himself to take the most dreaded task. “The Punishment of Atlas” required athletes to hold a massive boulder over their head longer than all of the other competitors.
Kim Sik did this because he believed that Sung Bin would outperform him in ‘Punishment of Sysiphus’ - a task that required rolling a massive boulder up a hill continuously.
Upon failing a challenge, no one blamed anyone else but themselves. From this we learn to take responsibility for our actions and to focus only on what we can control.
All of these athletes have dedicated themselves to pushing the boundaries of physical effort, all persevering through the challenges they face along the way. Instead of giving up, they used those challenges as opportunities to grow and become stronger.
Through this series, we learn that the human body and mind are capable of incredible things if we are willing to put in the work and put ourselves past the point of comfort. That failure is not a reason to give up; it's a chance to learn and improve. And we learn that being a superhero doesn't require superpowers; anyone can exhibit superhuman capabilities by building discipline, focus, and a desire to push past our limits.
Next time you feel like giving up on your fitness goals or taking too many consecutive rest days, get inspired by the athletes of Physical 100.
Whether you’re a lifter, a runner, cyclist, or hiker, you have the potential to be a superhero in your own right. The only competition is you.
How far can you evolve yourself?
]]>Mahomes' impressive athleticism and natural talent have made him a household name among football fans, and his achievements both on and off the field have solidified his status as one of the league's most exciting and influential players.
In this article, we'll take a closer look at what sets Mahomes apart from other quarterbacks in the league.
Perhaps the most obviously notable is his incredible arm talent, which allows him to make throws that most other quarterbacks can only dream of. In his first full season as a starter in 2018, Mahomes threw for over 5,000 yards and 50 touchdowns, becoming only the second quarterback in NFL history to do so (the first being Peyton Manning in 2013).
Patrick Mahomes' mental toughness helped lead his team, the Kansas City Chiefs, to victory in Super Bowl LIV.
Despite throwing two interceptions and trailing by 10 points with under 10 minutes left in the game, Mahomes rallied his team and assured them they could still win. He then led the team to score 21 unanswered points and win the game.
Mahomes' calm demeanor under pressure and an ability to make split-second decisions contributed to the mental toughness and leadership skills needed to carry his team to victory.
We can display leadership qualities like Patrick Mahomes by cultivating a similar sense of mental toughness and composure under pressure. By developing the ability to make quick decisions, and persevere in the face of setbacks, we too can inspire confidence in our colleagues, friends and family just like Mahomes.
According to his trainer Bobby Stroupe, Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes is known for being the most prolific sleeper in professional sports - sleeping 10 hours a night and napping often throughout the day. Stroupes credits his ample rest as key to his recovery from a kneecap injury.
We can enhance our recovery by prioritizing rest - improving the quality of our sleep.
Here are 3 quick ways to improve sleep quality:
Proving that mastering the mind helps the mastery of athleticism, Mahomes uses meditation to help him perform at his maximum capacity during high-pressure situations. The star athlete says that meditation helps him refocus and clears his mind, allowing him to stay focused on the game.
Mahomes learned about meditation from a mental performance consultant when he was in college, and he has continued to implement the practice in his professional career. The consultant taught Mahomes that the mind can only focus on six things at a time and that deliberately putting what athletes need front and center is critical to enhancing focus and confidence.
Here are 3 ways to incorporate meditation in your routine as a beginner:
Rather than focusing solely on endurance or strength, hybrid training combines multiple fitness modalities - helping you push past plateau and make physical and mental gains.
In this article, we explore the benefits of hybrid training and how it can help you become a better athlete, worker, and supporter for the ones you love.
In Photo: Squat Rack, Competition Barbell, Bumper Plates, Air Bike
Hybrid Training is a unique, rapidly growing and highly effective fitness approach that combines two or more exercise disciplines, such as strength, endurance, and mobility training.
By blending various forms of workouts, hybrid training addresses all aspects of fitness, including cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength and endurance, agility and balance.
This approach enhances physical performance while reducing the risk of injuries and improving overall health and wellbeing.
Whether you're a professional athlete or a fitness enthusiast, hybrid training can help you achieve your fitness goals and elevate your athletic performance to new heights.
The key to hybrid training is in its ability to merge seemingly opposing workouts, such as heavy lifting and endurance running, to produce a functional athlete who is resistant to plateaus.
It's no surprise that some of the most successful athletes, like Nick Bare, David Goggins, Ross Edgley and Hunter McIntyre (clockwise from left) use hybrid training routines.
Featured in Image: Better Body Battle Rope, Power Bundle with Squat Rack and Competition Plates, Twist Adjustable Dumbbells & Rack
Adding strength training to a running routine can help build more muscle, which can then be used to generate more power and maintain speed for longer periods.
Cardio training improves heart health and lung capacity, enhances endurance, and burns calories, leading to weight loss, improved body composition, and faster recovery time.
Combining these two training modalities improves your performance in both. Increased strength can improve speed and power, while increased endurance can recovery time for strength athletes.
Hybrid Athlete Marcus Hunt: "I honestly started pursuing hybrid training because I thought simply getting stronger and looking half decent didn’t excite me anymore.
It was the mental challenge I needed/wanted. I wanted more. I deadlifted over 705lbs for the first time towards the beginning of 2022 and wanted to be able to do that plus more."
Have you ever noticed that after working out regularly for a while, it seems like your progress just stops?
That's what's known as a workout plateau. Basically, your body has gotten so used to the demands of your fitness routine that it's no longer challenged, and your progress levels out.
By constantly challenging the body with new exercises and workout modalities, hybrid training can prevent plateaus and keep progress moving forward.
Incorporating high-intensity workouts that burn fat while also building muscle mass through a slight surplus and heavy strength training sessions will help you make gains while staying lean.
In Photo: Hex Dumbbell Set + Rack, Premium Bench
Fitness is more than just lifting weights or running miles; it is an opportunity for self-exploration, building resilience, and improved mental health.
Aerobic training is proven to have significant positive effects on mental health, particularly in managing symptoms of depression and anxiety thanks to the release of endorphins, which are natural mood boosters that can help alleviate symptoms.
Regular exercise can increase brain activity and neural connections in areas of the brain associated with emotional regulation and cognitive processing, leading to improved mental clarity and reduced stress levels.
Endurance training requires athletes to maintain a steady pace for extended periods, allowing (or forcing) them to pay more attention to their surroundings and be more present. This offers an opportunity to process thoughts and emotions productively, leading to enhanced mental clarity and reduced stress levels.
How often have you (or someone close to you) said the words, “I could never be a runner, I’m not a runner.”
These are limiting beliefs that are extremely fixed for most people.
While you don’t need to sign up for a marathon, you can push yourself beyond your current comfort zone.
Staying consistent and seeing the progress you’ve made will lead to a more positive self-image and increased confidence.
Our Heavy Duty Bench got an upgrade. Wide back, minimal gap - optimal comfort so you can focus on your lifts.
Hybrid training demands a lot of energy, so it's important to focus on nutrition and recovery to avoid burnout and injury.
Nutrition plays a crucial role in recovery, and it's recommended to consume a high protein diet to support muscle repair and clean foods to fuel the body with essential nutrients.
Eating in a small surplus that takes into account the energy expended during training can also help in building muscle.
Adequate sleep is another critical aspect of recovery as it's during sleep that tissue repair and energy stores are replenished. Research shows that there's a correlation between decreased sleep and an increased risk of injury.
To improve sleep quality, avoid fluids 1-2 hours before bedtime, avoid screens emitting blue light, and practice breath work to activate the parasympathetic nervous system.
Supplements like magnesium and lavender can also aid in relaxation. Proper hydration is essential, particularly during longer endurance events, and isotonic or hypertonic drinks with electrolytes and carbohydrates can help replenish fluids and provide quick energy to the body.
Hybrid training offers a new approach to fitness that combines strength and endurance training, leading to a well-rounded and functional athlete.
The benefits of this approach go beyond just physical gains and include mental health benefits such as self-exploration, resilience, and self-confidence.
To maximize the benefits of hybrid training, it's important to focus on recovery through proper nutrition, sleep, hydration, and supplements.
By incorporating these tips, individuals can achieve their fitness goals and improve their overall well-being.
Are you ready to give hybrid training a try and see the benefits for yourself?
]]>His dedication to pushing his limits in multiple areas of fitness has not only helped him achieve impressive physical feats but has also had a profound impact on his resilience, entrepreneurship and overall well-being.
In this interview, we dive deep into Marcus's approach to training, his mindset for success, and the lessons he's learned along the way.
Hybrid training is a type of training program that combines different exercise modalities in a single workout session.
It typically involves a mix of strength training exercises, such as weightlifting and resistance training, and cardiovascular exercises like running, cycling, or rowing.
Hybrid training can be customized to suit individual fitness goals and levels, and can be a great way to challenge the body in new ways while avoiding boredom and plateaus.
Additionally, hybrid training may help improve overall fitness, increase muscle mass, burn fat, and enhance cardiovascular health.
Marcus has been working out since he was 13 years old - a fitness journey that kicked off when he was taken under the wing of Mark Philippi - 1997 Winner of the World's Strongest Man.
Throughout high school, Marcus played a ton of sports, with a special love for football.
At 17 years and weighing 193lbs, Marcus deadlifted 635lbs conventional.
Following a 2 year church mission in São Paulo, Brazil, 18 year old Marcus became fluent in Portuguese.
Some more of Marcus' Accomplishments:
BBE:
If you could distill your personal philosophy of training in a few sentences... how would you describe it?
MH:
My training originated with lifting solely to increase my personal confidence as an insecure middle schooler. Shortly after my focus shifted to my maximizing athletic capability, with an emphasis on speed and strength for sports performance.
As time has gone on, I've tried to excel in every major physical discipline I can while trying to look good doing it.
Home gyms >
BBE:
Many view a modern fitness regime as either strength training or cardio like running or cycling, among other activities like hiking, rock climbing, yoga. Rarely do people view a hybrid training regime as sustainable - viewing it instead as unattainable and overwhelming.
What benefits do you experience from a well-rounded training routine? How do you think incorporating hybrid training would benefit people?
MH:
I honestly started pursuing hybrid training because I thought simply getting stronger and looking half decent didn’t excite me anymore.
It was the mental challenge I needed/wanted. I wanted more. I deadlifted over 705lbs for the first time towards the beginning of 2022 and wanted to be able to do that plus more.
The elephant in the room is that endurance running and heavy lifting inherently contradict each other. If you’re trying to get big and strong, running does the opposite by depleting your calories and breaking down your body.
I think lifting weights and doing cardio is a healthy goal for anyone. How extreme they choose to take that is up to them.
BBE:
Imagine someone reading this becomes super curious about a hybrid training program. They currently strength train 3x a week, but they don't have a running routine. What kind of routine would you suggest for them to get started?
This obviously varies from person to person depending on fitness level and past experience, but I would say start with walking and lower-intensity versions of cardio, and slowly ramp it up to running 2-3x a week, gradually increasing your mileage.
BBE:
What is your response when someone says, "I'm not a runner." "I could never be a runner."
My wife used to say things like this, and now she runs 5-6 days a week and loves it. I think the biggest thing is knowing that in order to grow, you’ll have to be uncomfortable. But you can do anything you put your mind to, if you work hard enough.
BBE:
Can you tell our audience about your current goal of running a marathon per month? Before you set this goal, what was your running goal? What made you decide on this goal? How's it all going? What are the challenges? What's next?
MH:
It all started when I ran a marathon on two broken feet around a single neighborhood block with 0 training just to prove to myself that I could.
I then went on to run as a sponsored athlete in the Utah Valley Marathon in 2022, and have run over 15 half marathons and 3 more full marathons since.
On February 12th, Marcus achieved an all-time squat PR (610), an all-time paused bench PR (390) and a 675 deadlift on the same day he ran a half marathon.
Running to me is all mental and that’s why I like it. Running isn’t fun, I don’t “enjoy” it in the traditional sense that others do, it’s miserable for me, and that’s why I enjoy it. I like building the mental endurance and pushing myself to do extremely difficult things on a regular basis.
My cardio base is good enough now that I don’t have to run super often to maintain it. What has been challenging has been trying to intentionally gain weight/muscle mass and having to run at a much higher body weight than I’m used to.
My original goal was to train and finish the Utah Valley Marathon. As time has gone on, half marathons have become a more casual expectation at the pace I like to run. Marathons are still something that are extremely challenging for me, so after running a few at the end of 2022, I decided I was going to run one per month each month of 2023 alongside deadlifting at least 700 lbs each month as well. One month down, 11 more to go!
As for 2024, maybe an ultra marathon, we’ll see! ;)
BBE:
How does strength training help your running? How does running help your strength training?
MH:
When I ran the Utah Valley Marathon in 2022, I burned a bunch of people on the hills because I’d built up strength in my legs that helped me to maintain my endurance, even on the hillier portions of the race.
Honestly, running hinders my strength training and breaks down my body. However, I have enjoyed the new challenge.
BBE:
For those of us curious about the nutrition it takes to sustain your type of training, can you run us through 3 of your go-to meals that help you stay strong and run long distance?
MH:
On days where I run long distance, I have a few things I like to have on-hand: Sour Patch Kids, Gatorade Zero, G2G bars. I like to end those days with a high-calorie cheat meal, like In N’ Out or Canes.
On the average day, though, my diet looks a bit different: For breakfast, I love turkey bacon, greek yogurt or a protein shake, and sourdough toast. My wife cooks dinners that are usually high in protein, moderate in carbs, and low in fat. Some of my favourites are shredded pork with homemade buns, or a no-bean chili made with lots of veggies, bone broth, and lean ground beef.
BBE:
What projects are you currently working on?
MH:
I’m currently working full time corporate job. Scaling my social media (IG, Tik Tok, and Youtube) and online training are my second job. Past ventures include a couple moving companies in Washington D.C., Utah, and Las Vegas. The Hunt Fitness App is the biggest entrepreneurial pursuit I’m pushing at the moment!
BBE:
Can you share what your current training split looks like?
MH:
At this point in my training career, I don’t have a set split. My workout days vary based upon the demands of previous days and future demands of upcoming challenges. My routine focuses on heavy multi joint lifts including: deadlifts, squats, bench press, military press, weighted pull-ups, weighted bar dips, and other accessory movements. As for running, I usually do a few slower paced shorter runs and a long (marathon-half marathon) run every 2 weeks or so.
To get the workouts I’ve used to attain my current strength, physique, & fitness level, check out The Hunt Fitness App available for IOS!
BBE:
You've been both an athlete and an entrepreneur since you were a teenager.
What were the foundational experiences in your childhood that helped you succeed in both athleticism and entrepreneurship at an early age?
What were the things that you had to learn along the way?
MH:
I wasn't really interested in fitness as a younger child. I played sports like many other kids, but was honestly a big skater until 8th grade when I decided I needed to stop being mentally and physically weak and do something valuable with my life. Up until that point, I hadn't taken the time to develop a true sense of self.
I decided I wanted to become the strongest and most disciplined version of myself. As a 13-year-old I would wake up every morning early before school and do a workout from Men's Health magazine in my room with dumbbells. Then after school I’d workout again, hitting consistently two or three a day for many years.
As I began to learn more about myself, I realized that I had a strong passion for helping and motivating others, which fueled my first business: A personal training & life coaching business.
This business has helped not only the clients I trained, but has helped me in many ways, too! My confidence in myself as an entrepreneur has grown and led to several other business ventures. Financially, this business has helped me in high school, to my LDS mission in Brazil, to paying my college tuition at BYU, and has continued to help me to support my family.
Lastly, starting and growing this business has given me a greater sense of purpose and drive to push me through even the toughest life journeys.
I have had to learn many life lessons along the way. The biggest lesson of all, I would say, is that you cannot be motivated toward success by external factors. Why you do what you do must come from within.
BBE:
Who are the people you look up to? What about them inspires you? What have you learned from them?
MH:
I look up to my dad because of his strength and hardworking spirit. He has worked tirelessly my whole life to provide the best life for me and my family, and is extremely honest, patient, and thorough in everything he does.
In terms of athletes, I look up to Alex Viada - the best hybrid athlete ever. Alex is one of the most instrumental thinkers and athletes in the hybrid training realm. I read his E-Book, ‘The Hybrid Athlete’ in high school and it revolutionized how I thought about training.
BBE:
Can you tell us a bit about your life outside of fitness? What are the things you LOVE to do? Who are the people who bring you joy?
MH:
Outside of fitness, I'm a big foodie. My wife and I love to try new restaurants, and I especially love a new donut joint or Brazilian steakhouse.
I love learning and I love learning about history in particular (I was a history major in college.) Every day you’ll catch me listening to a history podcast, studying a new topic, or starting a new book.
I love playing with my dog, Winston, and spending quality time with the people that I love. My friends and I love to spend hours catching up over home-grilled steaks or all-you-can-eat sushi.
My faith in God and His plan brings me the greatest joy followed by being married to my wonderful wife, and being with my family.
Serving and motivating others along with focusing on gratitude also brings me great joy.
BBE:
Is there anything that you would like to share with our audience that hasn't already been covered?
MH:
I am a proud member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. I attribute all of my success to the strength I receive from my faith in God, and the support I get from my wife and my family. I have grown a lot from my fitness journey, but have also learned a lot from other experiences, such as my 2-year church mission to Sao Paulo, Brazil and my time spent studying in college at BYU. I am grateful for the challenge each new day presents, and look forward to continuing to grow into the best version of myself.
The Better Body Air Bike gets your blood pumping - getting more difficult the harder you work. Its cardio and strength training capacities make it perfect for any hybrid program in a home gym.
In Photo: Better Body Standard Squat Rack, Competition Barbell, Horizontal Plate Rack, Hex Dumbbell Set, Premium Bench
Stay tuned for a giveaway.
]]>It's not just a cliche, it's true - a 2021 study on the Journal of Social and Personal Relationships found that individuals who work out together with their romantic partner experience better mood during exercise, better mood during the day and higher levels of relationship satisfaction.
With Valentine's Day just around the corner, what better way to spend quality time with your special someone than getting fit and healthy together.
In this blog, we've rounded up the best at-home couples workouts to help strengthen not only your relationship but your body too.
So grab your partner and get ready for a fun and sweaty workout session!
Target muscle: Abs, obliques.
Equipment: None
Difficulty: ❤️
How to do it:
Target muscle: Abs, obliques, quads, triceps.
Equipment: None
Difficulty: ❤️❤️❤️
How to do it:
Target muscle: Pecs, triceps, deltoids, core.
Equipment: None
Difficulty: ❤️❤️
How to do it:
Target muscle: Quads, glutes, hamstrings.
Equipment: None
Difficulty: ❤️
How to do it:
Target muscle: Quads, glutes, hamstrings, core.
Equipment: Medicine ball
Difficulty: ❤️❤️
How to do it:
Target muscle: Abs, triceps, quads.
Equipment: Wall
Difficulty: ❤️❤️❤️❤️
How to do it:
Target muscle: All of them
Equipment: None for cardio. Exercise-based for weights.
Difficulty: ❤️❤️
How to do it:
Target muscle: Quads, glutes, hamstrings, adductors, abs.
Equipment: None
Difficulty: ❤️❤️
How to do it:
Target muscle: Pects, triceps, deltoids, obliques, quads, hamstrings, glutes.
Equipment: Bench
Difficulty: ❤️❤️❤️❤️
How to do it:
Target muscle: Obliques, glutes, deltoids.
Equipment: Medicine ball
Difficulty: ❤️❤️❤️
How to do it:
Replace 5 sets of dumbbells with a pair of Starter Adjustable Dumbbells, with weights from 5-25lbs.
Currently available: 5-44lbs Twist Adjustable Dumbbells. The E-Z adjust weight system allows you to simply adjust the weight by twisting the handle.
Low odour and drop friendly rubber make this Hex Set a classic addition to your gym.
Perfect for smaller spaces or basement gyms, the Low Height Squat Stand will keep you accountable at home.
Our Heavy Duty Bench got an upgrade. Wide back, minimal gap - optimal comfort so you can focus on your lifts.
Exercising with a romantic partner is associated with better mood during exercise - increasing the boost you'd get from just exercise itself. By working out together, couples engage in an activity they both enjoy and value. Working together toward a common goal (health and fitness) can make the couple feel much closer.
We hope this article inspires you to get moving, together. Let’s get after it, Better Body Fam!
]]>Lionel Messi won his first-ever FIFA World Cup at Qatar 2022 after Argentina beat France in the tournament's final match. This is an especially triumphant victory for Messi, widely considered one of the greatest soccer players of all time with an 18 year long career - as he secured the trophy in what is likely his final World Cup.
Messi's incredible skill and athleticism on the field, paired with his dedication to physical fitness and training, make him a great role model for strength training and fitness enthusiasts looking to improve their own performance. In this blog post, we explore 3 things we can learn from Messi's training and fitness routine to help us reach our own fitness goals. From his tireless work ethic to his influence as a teammate and immense mental and physical preparation, Messi's approach to fitness can inspire us all to push ourselves to the next level.
Messi is constantly pushing himself to evolve as a player - always looking for ways to improve his skills, fitness, and strategy, and working tirelessly to achieve this. The world’s greatest player could never be content with mediocrity - always seeking out new challenges and opportunities for growth.
By applying this mindset to our own lives, we too can push ourselves to be our best - setting new goals and challenging ourselves constantly. This can lead to greater success and fulfillment in all areas of our lives.
Despite being one of the greatest players of all time, Messi is known for being humble and approachable, and for his willingness to support and encourage his teammates. He is a leader by example, always working hard and giving his best on and off the field. He is also a vocal leader, who encourages and motivates his teammates during the game, and gives credit to his teammates when they make a great play. He is a team player and is always willing to make sacrifices for the team's benefit. This attitude has earned him the respect and admiration of his teammates and coaches, making him a great captain and leader.
We can take lessons from Messi's leadership and team player qualities into our own lives. In the workplace, or any situation that requires collaboration, we do what we can to support and encourage our colleagues - celebrating their strengths and backing them up where they are weak. In our personal relationships, we can be supportive and encouraging of our loved ones - creating stronger and more fulfilling bonds.
Messi always knew he wanted to play professionally, and he stopped at nothing to achieve this dream. He made sacrifices, leaving his hometown in Argentina to join the youth academy at Barcelona to pursue his dream.
Messi's perseverance and dedication serve as an inspiration for us to follow our own dreams. Messi's example teaches us to have a clear vision of what we want and to make choices daily that will get us closer to it. There will be obstacles along the way, but that with determination and hard work, we can overcome them and get closer to our goals.
Deadlifts
Soccer players can benefit from performing deadlifts, which target multiple key muscles. They improve power and strength in the glutes, quads, adductors, hamstrings, lower back and core.
Lionel Messi's incredible victory at the 2022 FIFA World Cup serves as a testament to over 18 years of dedication, hard work, and commitment to physical fitness and training. His approach to fitness and his mindset in constant pursuit of improvement serves as an inspiration for us strength training and fitness lovers.
By applying Messi's qualities of leadership, sportsmanship and humility to the workplace and our personal relationships, while visualizing our dreams and persevering through obstacles, we can live more fulfilled lives and reach our full potential.
]]>Working out helps us gain both physical and mental health, but during the winter months, it can be difficult to stay motivated to continue your fitness routine.
The cold weather, bad traffic, and the risk of getting sick alone are enough to keep even the most inspired resolutioner from the gym.
But as much as we want to avoid winter’s inconveniences, we want to avoid neglecting our goals even more. The best way to stay motivated is to make our goals as easy as possible, removing obstacles where we can. And the best way to do that in the winter time is with a home gym.
Before we continue, we need to remind you that you don’t need a fully built out garage gym to work out from home. The first step can simply be some dumbbells and/or an exercise bench.
In Photo: Hex Dumbbell Set + Rack, Premium Bench
After a long day at work, the last thing you need is to get stuck in rush hour traffic… which, in the winter, is way worse with snow! In many cities, a little bit of snow can cause a shutdown on the road. Roads are icy and treacherous and other drivers are unpredictable - making it dangerous to drive to the gym.
The early months of the year usually mark the flu season. People are more susceptible to getting sick due to the cold weather. Gyms, with its masses of people passing through and sharing equipment, are breeding grounds for viruses. By working out at home, we reduce our chances of getting sick. By maintaining our fitness routine, we can improve our health throughout the winter.
Buy Individual Weights ➡ Rubber Hex Dumbbell Set
With a home gym, you decide when it is most convenient for you to work out. Whether it's early in the morning before you get ready for work, during your lunch break, or even in the middle of the night. This flexibility allows you to schedule your workouts around your busy schedule.
How many times have you walked around the gym, trying to find an available piece of equipment - precious minutes out of your day wasted just waiting for people to get off your phones? Having a home gym means you can pick up your gear and work out - no waiting around necessary. Bonus? You’re that much closer to a post-workout snack.
In Photo: Better Body Power Rack, Bumper Plates
Having a home gym will help you cut costs over the long term - at a time we could use extra funds the most. Save on gym membership fees and gas money. Investing in home gym equipment - even if it’s only a pair of adjustable dumbbells to start - will pay off with the time and financial savings you’ll make.
Starting out at the gym can be very intimidating. It feels like everyone knows way more than you do, you feel unsure about what you’re doing, and you’re so self aware - worried others are judging you, even if they’re definitely not. All of this, plus the bad music and lack of free equipment are enough to distract a newcomer from their workouts. By having a home gym, you can create an environment that helps you focus on your workout - without fears of judgment.
Replace 5 sets of dumbbells with a pair of Starter Adjustable Dumbbells, with weights from 5-25lbs.
Choose between 5-70lbs or 5-44lbs of Twist Adjustable Dumbbells. The E-Z adjust weight system allows you to simply adjust the weight by twisting the handle.
Low odour and drop friendly rubber make this Hex Set a classic addition to your gym.
Perfect for smaller spaces or basement gyms, the Low Height Squat Stand will keep you accountable at home.
Our Heavy Duty Bench got an upgrade. Wide back, minimal gap - optimal comfort so you can focus on your lifts.
Staying motivated to work out is hard enough, and beginning a fitness routine in the wintertime has its own set of difficulties. You can overcome these challenges by starting a home gym.
We hope this article supports you on your quest to a Better 2023. Let’s get after it, Better Body Fam!
]]>We hear you. We’ve been there too.
Among the countless resolutions people write down during New Year’s, fitness goals seem to be the most challenging. But maybe the problem isn’t you… it’s choosing the wrong goals to begin with.
Whether it’s setting unrealistic objectives like losing 20 lbs in a month, or starting without a clear plan, poor goal setting choices put you on a path of failure.
If you’re tired of letting another year pass by without making significant progress toward your goals, read our article and Set Your 2023 Fitness Goals.
In Photo: Squat Rack, Competition Barbell, Bumper Plates
Whether you’re looking to bulk up, lose those extra pounds, or complete a road race, get inspired by these measurable goals.
Gaining strength is an excellent goal for anyone wanting to improve their overall fitness and health. But simply setting the goal of "gaining strength" is too vague and will not give you a clear idea of what you want to accomplish. You want to give yourself a specific goal and deadline, then create a training plan to help you achieve it.
Examples of measurable strength gaining goals:
One of the simplest and most tried and true ways to gain strength is by following a progressive overload program - one that adds strain to each workouts to help your body continually build strength.
This can be as simple as doing extra reps or adding weight to each exercise. So, if you’re doing bicep curls with dumbbells, you would start with 10lb weights and gradually increase that by 5lbs at a time as you get stronger.
In Photo: Better Body Twist Adjustable Dumbbells, Premium Bench, Bundle
Don’t have easy access to free weights? A pair of twist adjustable dumbbells is great for at home workouts, so you can work toward your goals with no excuses.
For those looking to improve their overall health, endurance, flexibility, and mobility, having cardio as a 2023 fitness goal is a must. Regular cardio exercise improves overall fitness levels while improving mental health.
Plus, since you don’t really need any equipment it can be done from virtually anywhere. Some great options include running, jumping rope, swimming, hiking, or HIIT workouts.
Examples of measurable cardio goals:
In Photo: Manual Treadmill
Weather keeping you indoors? This manual treadmill is a great way to still get your cardio in without leaving your house.
Examples of measurable lean muscle / fat loss goals:
In Photo: Squat Rack, Competition Barbell, Bumper Plates, Air Bike
Read our blog: Body Recomposition: Lose Fat & Gain Muscle
No matter what the new year brings your way, focusing on your fitness is a must. Not only will it help you improve physically but also mentally and emotionally.
The best way to make sure you reach those goals is by setting yourself up for success. Be realistic about them, make a proper plan, and keep going!
]]>They sign up, muster all their motivation and walk in… only to find the place is crowded, smells terrible, and all the equipment they want to use is taken.
If they didn’t simply leave outright, they left feeling unsatisfied with their workout.
There’s a better way to invest in your health, avoid the monthly fees, crowds and the cold winter weather.
Home workouts help you achieve your strength and mental health goals, without added costs and stress.
As we approach the holiday season, read on for our Home Gym Gift Guide for Every Space. In this article, we go over…
In Photo: Adjustable Kettlebell, Exercise Mat, Twist Adjustable Dumbbells, Rack, Bundle
Going to a commercial gym is a great way to access a variety of equipment, meet other fitness lovers, and get out of the house. The problem is that it can also mean less flexibility in your workouts.
With rising living costs, gas commute expenses and monthly fees add up. Also factor in time costs from traveling to the gym and extended wait times trying to get your desired machines… working out shouldn’t be this hard.
All of that is a non issue with home workouts.
No rush hour traffic, no waiting for equipment, and no worries about forgetting essential items like headphones or a water bottle at home.
In Photo: Twist Adjustable Dumbbells, Folding Exercise Bench, Bundle
Small spaces mean you need compact equipment.
Most small apartments feature one small bedroom and a small living / dining area attached to the kitchen. There’s not too much space or storage for gym equipment… but that doesn’t need to stop you.
The answer? Picking pieces that can be hidden out of plain sight.
In photo: Folding Exercise Bench
Adjustable Dumbbells and a Folding Bench are the perfect option to allow challenging full body strength training in even the smallest apartments.
Once you’re done, just store them out of sight for a decluttered living space.
In Photo: Twist Adjustable Dumbbells, Rack, Folding Exercise Bench, Exercise Mat
Those with larger apartments can get away with keeping their Adjustable Dumbbells on display with a storage rack.
Doing this helps with motivation and habit building as you see your gear every day… making it that much easier to pick up the dumbbells and smash out a few sets.
In photo: New Years Resolution Bundle with Pro Adjustable Dumbbells, Rack Premium Bench
The Better Body Pro Adjustable Dumbbells and Rack are modern and beautifully designed, making them something a fitness lover would be proud to keep on display.
The Premium Bench gives you full control over exercise variations with 13 adjustable back settings and 3 adjustable seat settings.
In Photo: Standard Squat Rack, Competition Plates, Competition Barbell, Hex Dumbbell Set & Weight Rack
Access to a spare room, like an unused bedroom, office or den, means more chances to customize your home gym setup.
In photo: Power Bundle
In Photo: Better Body Air Bike
While a dumbbell set is great, things like a squat rack or an air bike can help you reach your fitness goals faster - whether you hope to increase strength or improve your conditioning.
In Photo: Standard Squat Rack, Competition Barbell, Bumper Plates, Gym Floor Tiles, Hex Dumbbell Set & Weight Rack, Air Bike
Have an under-utilized garage or basement?
It might be time to transform it into your dream gym.
Having a designated large space means the ability to build your dream home gym filled with only the equipment you need so you can work out whenever you want, with whoever you want.
No late fees, no crowds, no smells.
In Photo: Weight Barbell, Machined Deep Dish Weight Plates, Bundle
Not having access to a garage or basement doesn’t mean lesser quality workouts.
But if you have one and decide to convert it into your designated workout space, your dream gym can become a reality.
Better Body Ultimate Bundle | Complete Home Gym
Better Body Barbell and Weight Bundle
In Photo: Power Bundle with Squat Rack
A bench, a pair of adjustable dumbbells and rack are all you need for an instant home gym that allows a vast variety of workout options.
In Photo: New Years Resolution Bundle with Twist Adjustable Dumbbells, Premium Bench
To help you get a head start on your New Years' Resolutions, we put together the New Years' Resolution Bundle - a package deal that saves you 10% on the Twist Adjustable Dumbbells, Rack and Premium Bench.
In Photo: Legacy Tee
Introducing the Better Body Legacy Tee... our first venture into apparel.
We know all too well how difficult it is to find well fitting tees for athletic bodies.
So we decided to create our own.
The Legacy Tee is an extremely comfortable 100% Cotton Tee made in the USA with a crew neck, dropped shoulders and soft-to-touch texture.
Add it to your daily rotation to remind yourself of your goals.
Home gyms help us achieve our fitness and mental health goals. Equipment toward home gyms are a great gift for that person who’s looking to start (or step up) their fitness journey.
So if you or a loved one are looking to start your new year's resolution fully prepared, now is the time to start shopping.
Just make sure you’re quick!
Holiday season means lots of fitness lovers stocking up and products selling fast.
Purchase by Sunday December 18th to get your gear delivered by Christmas.
]]>It takes investments of time, energy and finances - as you’ll need to make space, find the right equipment, and lay it out strategically.
Despite all this effort, a garage gym is a major improvement to your fitness game. Having easy access to training at any time of day, without anyone else to bother you, makes the process worth it.
In this article, we go over:
In Photo: Better Body Standard Squat Rack, Hex Barbell, Plate & Barbell Rack, Manual Curved Treadmill
Working out at home tends to mean fewer interruptions, but if you have a large household, having a gym in the garage means you truly have your space.
Not only are you able to work out in peace, your garage gym set-up means you have a dedicated space to throw around weight without fears of damaging your home.
It’s also large enough to create an impressive, dedicated and customized space for your specific training style, whether you favour a large functional workout space or heavy strength training.
In Photo: Better Body Standard Squat Rack, Hex Dumbbell Set & Weight Rack, Competition Barbell, Bumper Plates
So you want to convert your garage into a gym. But there’s so much stuff in there… It’s so overwhelming!
Don’t let this discourage you.
We need to come to terms that we can’t just get rid of all the stuff in the garage. What we can do is claim back as much floor space as possible and create the most ideal and optimized layout for your garage gym. Every last square inch matters.
That means taking all those tools, storage boxes and seasonal boxes and being ruthless in your organization.
Don’t overlook your walls as a potential storage option. There are tons of affordable modular wall organization systems that you can install for your specific needs.
Get rarely used bins like Christmas decorations off the floor with hanging storage.
Make use of shelves to store your labeled tote bins for all other storage needs.
In Photo: Better Body Standard Squat Rack, Hex Dumbbell Set, Hex Barbell, Bumper Plates, Competition Barbell, Gym Floor Mats
The Better Body Squat Rack is the perfect home gym item for your squats, pull ups, bench press, and more. With a 2 point multi-adjustment mechanism, you'll be able to select the exact height you're looking for to start doing multiple movements right from your home.
In Photo: Better Body Weight Barbell, Standard Squat Rack, Hex Dumbbell Set, Gym Floor Mats
Load up the Weight Barbell with up to 700lbs of steel and start pumping.
A reasonable price for exceptional quality. We trust the durability and strength of this barbell so much that we’ve given it a lifetime warranty.
In Photo: Better Body Standard Squat Rack, Competition Barbell, Horizontal Plate Rack, Hex Dumbbell Set, Premium Bench
The Better Body Competition Barbell is the most premium bar we could get our hands on.
The polymer-ceramic composite coating gives this barbell a bulletproof layer making it one of the most durable and premium barbells out there.
Fully machined, this bar is a feat of high level precision engineering. With dual knurl marks, you’ll experience increased grip so you can worry less about slippage and focus more on lifting.
In Photo: Better Body Bumper Plates, Better Body Machined Weight Plates
Bumper Plates
Each bumper plate is made of high density rubber molded around a steel insert - designed for durability, a dead bounce and protecting your weights, barbell and floor from damage.
The Better Body Bumper Plates are available in pairs or as sets and come with a 2 year warranty - so your investment is protected.
Machined Weight Plates
The plates are grooved for easy handling, stacking, and storage. The solid iron construction is high quality and rugged.
The Olympic-sized plates mean you can train at a standard. Whether you’re into competitive lifting or you appreciate the value of consistency, these Machined Weight Plates are a must have to pump some traditional iron.
In Photo: Better Body Premium Bench
With 13 adjustable back settings and 3 adjustable seat settings, our Premium Exercise Bench gives you full control over your angles so you can train every muscle.
In Photo: Hex Dumbbell Set & Weight Rack, Standard Squat Rack, Gym Floor Mats
In Photo: Air Bike
The Better Body Air Bike gets your blood pumping with cardio training capacities perfect for any home gym.
Get a full body cardio and strength training workout with a push, pull and pedal movement that gets harder the greater your effort.
In Photo: Heavy Duty Floor Tiles
Shield your floors from getting caught in the crossfire between you and your better self. Working hard shouldn’t be compromised for what's beneath your feet. That’s why we offer extra thick, extra durable rubber floor protectors. Challenge yourself with those heavier weights and don’t fret about dropping them.
In Photo: Plate & Barbell Rack, Low Height Squat Stand, Heavy Duty Bench, Weight Barbell, Machined Weight Plates
An organized space is a focused mind, and a focused mind connects with the muscle.
Stop wasting time climbing over a mess - streamline your setup with the Plate and Barbell Rack.
In Photo: Horizontal Plate Rack, Incline Squat Rack, Weight Barbell, Competition Plates
The Better Body Horizontal Plate Rack is your solution to a more organized home gym. This rack features 5 dividers, 2 slots for your barbells, a convenient grip, as well as 2 rear wheels for easy transport.
We leave this article with some final tips:
We hope this article helps you build your dream garage gym.
Check out our Garage Gym Collection.
]]>It takes enormous self discipline, perseverance and calculated precision to become a bodybuilder… And there’s no one more exciting to watch than Canada’s very own Chris Bumstead, or CBUM.
Bumstead first started competing in 2014 when he was only 19, and at 21, he earned his Pro Card after winning the 2016 IFBB North American Bodybuilding Championship.
After placing 2nd in 2017 and 2018, Bumstead became the 2019 Classic Physique Olympia Champion at age 24. He continues to defend his coveted 1st place title with more wins in 2020, 2021 & 2022.
This past weekend, CBUM defended his title to win his 4th consecutive Mr Olympia.
Us strength training and bodybuilding enthusiasts can learn a lot from his prep, thanks to his active online presence.
In this Superhero Spotlight, we go over a few things we learn from Chris Bumstead, including:
Photo by: LT Visual Media
Chris Bumstead's win on Saturday December 17th gives him his 4th straight Classic Olympia title (2019-2022), continuing to dominate a bodybuilding division that has only been around since 2016.
Until fairly recently, modern bodybuilding has shifted away from the aesthetic physiques of the Arnold era, favouring muscle mass over anything.
Though only 7 years old, The Classic Division is regenerating interest in the sport of bodybuilding, showcasing instead physiques that prioritize symmetry and aestheticism.
Chris Bumstead has dominated more than half of the current Classic era, having won titles 4 years in a row. This past weekend, 59 competitors took to the Mr Olympia stage in Las Vegas to compete for the highest title of Mr Olympia Classic Division. There was no competition as CBum proved untouchable during posing - showing incredible muscle size, definition and balance.
Prior to his win, Chris Bumstead took to his YouTube channel to share a full day of eating focused on shredding.
The phrase ‘Champion Mentality’ is Chris Bumstead’s rallying cry for amateur athletes who look up to his accomplishments. It marks the merchandise he offers to his 10 million + fans, and there’s no phrase better for a 3 time Mr Olympia champion.
Through this message, Bumstead encourages his audience to behave like a champion - even when there isn’t a trophy or a medal on the line. By showing up each day taking action to become a better version of yourself, you embody CBUM’s Champion Mentality.
From CBUM, we learn that even without public accolades - we can feel like a champion when we persevere through the difficult things to evolve into our best selves.
If your goal is to pursue the sport for yourself, with no intentions of competing or using performance enhancing ‘supplements,’ bodybuilding is perfectly safe.
However, if you wish to step on the stage, compete against the best bodybuilders in the world and use ‘supplements’ to help you with your goals, it can become dangerous very quickly.
Photo by Calvin Youtittham
“If you want to use ‘supplements’, wait until the last possible minute if you even want to do it because it can have life-lasting negative effects to your fertility, to your sex, your libido, to your hormones, skin, acne, everything. What are you doing it for? You’re going to win the Olympia? Probably not. Sorry. Only very few people, one a year, so you’re probably not going to. Just don’t fu*k your shit up. Don’t be an idiot. If you love training, then go after the other things like natural supplements.” Chris Bumstead added.
CBUM is very aware of the dangers that come with competing at bodybuilding’s most elite level and puts extra attention on his physical health. That means doing regular health checks, blood work and doctors’ visits - using the data learned to make calculated decisions.
When asked by a young lifter whether or not they should start taking steroids, Bumstead responded, “That decision has to be your own, and it has to be a well educated decision, because people like bodybuilding for a few years, and they take steroids and they’ll be like ‘I don’t actually like bodybuilding.’ Then they’ll quit bodybuilding, and their body is still f—ked up from the juice or whatever they took in the meantime. “So that decision, you shouldn’t ask anybody that. You should just know, and you should be f—king dedicated to wanting to do it. So no, you shouldn’t if you’re asking me that.”
Earlier this year, CBUM shared that he has transitioned to much lower doses to positive results. “When I was young, I used to run a typical cycle that most bodybuilders would. Still very low amounts but a typical amount of compounds, four or five compounds throughout a prep. And now I’m down to one or two. I’ve decreased everything and look much better because I’ve been more efficient. Older now, more muscle maturity but I’ve also focused on all-year being on my diet, on my training, on my health, everything perfectly,” said Bumstead.
Chris Bumstead’s conservative philosophy on ‘supplement’ use can also be linked to his decision to perform in the Classic Physique Division over Open. As CBUM’s profile grew in the last few years, becoming one of the most popular bodybuilders in the world, so too did the interest of bodybuilding fans toward the Classic Physique.
Compared to Open, the Classic Physique is also much more attainable - perhaps another reason more and more prefer to watch leaner muscular competitors. On this topic, CBUM said, “I think the reason they are switching down is because they have the chance to look like their childhood heroes rather than the new people on top now. Which are just absolute mass monster which doesn’t appeal to such a large crowd.”
Note: The Classic Physique division is fairly new to the Olympia, introduced only in 2016. Classic is targeted toward athletes who want to build their size above normal physique limits but not to the extent of the Open Division, prioritizing an aesthetic appearance over extreme muscular development. The Open Division features athletes with weights starting from 300lbs.
You can find peeks into Chris Bumstead’s training routine on his YouTube channel.
Here are a few workouts we found through his videos:
In Photo: Twist Adjustable Dumbbells, Foldable Exercise Bench
In Photo: Adjustable Dumbbells, Power Bundle with Squat Rack, Competition Barbell & Weights Bundle
In Photo: Hex Dumbbell & Weight Rack, Premium Bench
Photo by Calvin Youtittham
We're rooting for Chris Bumstead's 4th winning title as Mr Olympia this December.
While not many of us can seriously entertain ambitions of competing on the Mr Olympia stage, we can certainly experience greater life fulfillment by striving to be our best selves everyday.
This means lowering the volume of external distractions and turning up the focus on our own personal development.
To embody CBUM’s Champion Mentality is to compete with ourselves everyday to see just how strong we truly are.
A champion can be made more effective with the right gear. Better Body’s home fitness equipment helps you get more consistent in your strength training.
Check out our best sellers today.
]]>