Build a Bigger Chest in 3-4 Workouts or Less

 If your pecs are a weak body part, or, if you’ve simply hit a progress plateau in your chest development, then this high intensity chest training program will pack slabs of muscle mass on your chest after just 3-4 workouts - and I guarantee it. This is a high intensity bodybuilding workout for advanced bodybuilders only. (Beginners don’t even think about it...)

 I’m currently on workout 3 of 4 in this pec routine and the results have been so impressive that I decide to write it up for you before I even finish the final workout next week.

 Considering I’m on a calorie deficit in a cutting phase, I’m especially impressed with the increase in my chest size and development after 3 workouts. You’re not going to gain much if any muscular body weight if you are in a caloric deficit, but NO DOUBT, you can improve the development of a muscle group even while cutting up. This is a perfect example. I’m going to return to this program again for sure on my next mass phase. This program is called…

 Multi-Angular Rest Pause With Pump Finisher

 Here’s how it works. You select two exercises. For exercise one (the main course), I chose a basic pec mass exercise that can be done at any angle from steep incline to flat bench. Thats the primary exercise you stick with for all 4 workouts. Incline Dumbbell Press was the natural choice. I set up on a fully adjustable bench that allows multiple angles of incline.

 For exercise two (dessert), I chose an isolation exercise for a pump finisher, and it changes with every workout.

 Here’s the sequence:

A1 Incline Dumbbell Press - steep incline - about 65-70 degrees

6 reps

rest 10 seconds

A2 Incline Dumbbell Press - medium (regular) incline - about 45 degress

6 reps

10 seconds

A3 Incline Dumbbell Press - low incline - about 20-25 degrees

6 reps

10 seconds rest

A4 Dumbbell Press - flat bench

6 reps

Now rest 2 - 3 minutes.

 That’s one "set." Technically of course, that is FOUR SETS, done in rest pause fashion, so lets call it one “round” for clarity’s sake.

 Yes… that was round ONE. Now do it two more times.

Note: It helps a lot if you have a training partner change the bench angle so you can stay seated and keep the dumbbells in your hands. Doing it alone is slow and cumbersome.

 For poundage, youre going to have to go MUCH lighter than usual. Although I don't train heavy pecs anymore, last time I did, I was doing 6 reps with 125s on the incline. So for this program I took about 50-60% of that; 70 lbs on workout 1, 75 lbs on workout 2,and 80 lbs on workout 3. On the last one, I had to drop to the 75s to finish all 3 rounds and even then I needed some forced reps towards the end.

 You may need to decrease the weight on the 2nd or 3rd round, but if at all humanly possible, do NOT reduce the weight during each round. Doing all four angles at the same poundage is the whole idea.

 What may happen, especially if you even slightly overestimated your starting poundage, is that reps may drop with each angle change within a round. First angle - 6 reps is easy. second angle, a little harder, but still no problem. Third angle, you might only squeeze out 5 reps or hit honest failure on the 6th rep. 4th angle (flat), you might hit total failure on the 4th or 5th rep.

 Now this is also where a training partner comes in. This routine should not be attempted without a spotter. Sorry, but you are a dork if you try to do this without a spotter. This program causes HONEST muscle failure (I’ll explain that in more detail shortly), so you need the spotter for safety, but moreover, you will need a spotter’s assistance to complete forced reps, at least on the final round or two, if not the first round. In general, forced reps should not be overused, but they play an important part of this program.

 Ok, where were we? Oh yeah, you just finished your 3rd round. You might be finished! Yeah. some people will be DONE, KAPUT, ZONKED, BONKED, NUKED, GAME OVER, after 3 rounds of that (think about it - that was 12 sets, disguised as 3 sets!) However, for those who want the full course…. come with me and lets finish off those pecs with the pump (oh, you thought were already pumped… heh.. just wait…you’ll see what a pump is!)

The second exercise (exercise B) is going to be an isolation exercise.. ie., DB flye, cable crossover, machine flye (pec deck), etc., and you will perform 20-25 reps, non stop in piston-like fashion. use a steady quick tempo, but not so fast that you use momentum.

This isolation /pump exercise will change with every workout:

B1 Workout 1: standing cable crossover

2-3 sets, 20-25 reps

B1 Workout 2: machine flye or pec deck

2-3 sets, 20-25 reps

B1 Workout 3: decline dumbbell flye

2-3 sets 20-25 reps

B1 Workout 4: flat bench cable flyes in cable crossover machine

2-3 sets, 20-25 reps

That’s it! That’s the whole program. Three rounds of multi-angular rest pause, then finish your workout with 2-3 sets of 25 reps on a pumping, isolation movement.

This routine is performed within a standard bodybuilding type of split, so it should be done once in 5-7 days, no more. You would probably do another body part after chest,such as biceps or triceps, depending on how you organize your split routine.

 I would recommend advanced bodybuilders use this program a couple times a year if and when they need a boost in chest development. This is not the type of program you would use all the time. You would burn out and overtrain.

There’s one more very important part of this routine - progression.

On the Incline Dumbbell Presses, you will increase the poundage with every workout. Keep in mind, you will not be able to complete all 3 rounds at all 4 angles for 6 unassisted reps. Its going to get harder each time, even as you get stronger. You may have to use a spotter more with each progressing workout. You may also find that on workout 1 or workout 2, you can complete all 3 rounds with the same dumbbells, but on workout 3, by the 2nd or 3rd round, you have to drop the weight or you’ll barely be getting 2 or 3 reps.

 Now let me re-emphasize the importance of a spotter. Theres something thats going to happen when you do this routine that does not happen often. You will hit what my training partner and I call “HONEST FAILURE.” This means that your muscles literally fail, or give out right underneath you. Mind you, this is not something you would usually aim for, but that’s just the nature of this program and this is only a 4-workout high intensity “shock” type of routine.

 When I say your muscles will give out, I mean that literally. On the last rep or two of 3rd or 4th angle, of the 2nd or 3rd round, your arms may literally buckle underneath you. That’s honest failure.

 You see, there are several types of failure… First there is “sissy failure”.. that’s when there is a lactic acid burn or a fatigue in the muscle (you’re tired) and because it hurts or youre tired, that causes you to stop. Thats sissy failure (sarcasm).

 Then you have positive failure. This is where you can no longer push the weight up in a concentric motion, but you are still able to lower the weight and exert an upward force against the weight. For example, you’re bench pressing and you hit the “sticking point,” but you are holding that bar at the sticking point (its not coming back down), and you’re still exerting force to push the bar upward, but the bar simply isn't moving up!

 Then you have honest failure. This is where the muscle simply gives out.. it buckles. you have reached concentric and eccentric failure. This type of failiure is rarely discussed. In fact I don’t recall anyone ever writing about it except for Arthur Jones and Ellington darden and the rest of the High Intensity Training (HIT) camp.

 Rarely does any bodybuilder tread in this territory, and for good reason, as it is really not necessary and can be dangerous for anyone but a veteran who knows what the heck he is doing - and all the kidding aside for a moment, Im serious about this. Its no joke if your chest and arms give out from underneath you and you dump a 70 or 80 pound dumbbell on your face. (you do like your teeth, don’t you?)

 However, as a technique you use on rare occasion for a shock routine that breaks through progress plateaus, that untrodden territory is there… for those who dare. There is something about this particular program (multi angular rest pause) that takes you there. You've been warned! Train hard, but be safe!

 Now, go out there and get jacked!

by Tom Venuto

The Ripped Abs Secret Of Bodybuilders And Fitness Models

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What To Look For In A Gym? Checklist Helps Find The Best Value

 When looking for a gym or fitness center I believe you should go where you feel most comfortable... 

 Here is a checklist you can use in searching for a fitness center:

 Clean Facility.

You want the facility to be cleaned regularly and have some type of cleaner on hand, near equipment, or in a storage area if need be. Some gyms I have been to have towels with the cleaning products - which are washed regularly - and other gyms have paper towels loosely placed throughout, or in dispensers around the facility. Remember though... no matter where you go you should always wash your hands regularly, and never touch your eyes, nose, or mouth without first washing your hands thoroughly with soap.

 Equipment Variety.

Any place you go should have a lot of fitness equipment variety for you to choose from. Many times while on vacation I have chosen the gym with the most equipment variety because I like to change my routines and exercises often. My body is never bored this way. If you sign up at a place with 10 pieces of equipment it is better than sitting on the couch, but you will soon go stale in your routines. This usually leads to boredom, which leads to dropping out.

 Free Classes.

 If you go to a gym which offers classes - such as: aerobics, toning, sculpting, cycling, strength, cardio, abs and bun firming, or step - and they want you to pay separate then you should be alarmed. I have been to a lot of very nice high-dollar gyms out West and here in the East and do not ever remember seeing anyone have to pay extra. Now if you have a top expert or celebrity come to speak, hold a class, or workshop, that is totally different. Also you may have personal trainers or nutritionists hold classes in a gym for a fee because this is for their business and they are paying a rental fee to the club.

 Knowledgeable Staff.

 If you get to the front desk of a gym and there are only a few people on staff - barely over the age of 18 - and they are not well-trained (formally or informally) to help you get the fitness results you desire, then choose another gym. Some of us do not need a knowledgeable staff because we already have a game plan, but this is the minority of us. The majority of us will have questions and need a little guidance and assistance. You usually cannot get this from the young guy or girl behind the desk who works there just because they look like they are in shape. Getting yourself into shape and getting others into shape are two totally different ball games.

 Reliable.

 All too often, over the years, I have seen gyms rush into small and large towns and cities promising the world, only to really take your money and leave town. Many times you will see these gyms come into town with good marketing, but not good service once you are in the doors.You want a gym with a great track record of being open a long time. You want a gym with a history of being good to its members. You want a gym that does not have a history of closing its doors after getting you signed-up for long-term contracts. If you have to sign-up for a long-term contract with a gym it usually means they want you to stay even if you do not want to.

 Lifestyles and many of the other top gym chains around the country changed their model years ago to month-to-month memberships and I feel like that is what is right and fair to members. You want a gym that does not try to nickel and dime you and ask for service fees which are constantly hitting your pocketbook. You are at the gym to work on you, not on them!

by David Gluhareff

The #1 Abs Programm On The Internet

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7 Weight Loss Tips

 You are eating 5-6 mini-meals per day, right? If not, get started, and here are some more weight loss tips.
1. Eat more fruits and vegetables.
Get your carbohydrates from fruits and vegetables first, before using breads and pastas. You'll get far more nutrients and fiber, and fewer calories.
2. Eat fiber.
The average American falls far short of the fiber recommendations (of 25+ grams of fiber per day). Add an ounce of raw nuts to your daily food plan to get more fiber and to satisfy your appetite.
3. Eat more protein.
Protein fills you up and doesn't mess with your blood sugar, so you'll have more mental energy.

4. Have something for breakfast.
While the exact reason isn't clear, breakfast eaters tend to be slimmer than non-breakfast eaters. Start your day with a whey protein shake and an apple if you are in a rush.
5. Drink water.
At least 8 cups per day. This will help fill you up and helps you avoid constipation.
6. Exercise less, but harder.
Forget about long, slow cardio. Learn how to do interval training instead. This will boost your metabolism all day long.
7. Use your bodyweight.
There are hundreds of bodyweight exercises you can do at home, from beginner to advance.
 And those are your 7 tips to help you lose weight, burn fat, control your appetite, boost your metabolism and get the body you want.

by Craig Ballantyne

Did You Know This About Fat Burning?

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The Top 10 Vitamins That Everyone Should Include In Their Diet

 If you're focused on aesthetic results such as losing body fat or increasing the amount of lean muscle tissue you have on your body, taking care of your total calorie, carb, protein, and dietary fat intake will be essential. It is these nutrients that will determine how your body composition changes as time goes on.

 It's important to realize though that simply watching your calories and the major macronutrients will not necessarily promote overall good health. For that, you need to look at the micronutrients commonly referred to as vitamins and minerals.

 Making sure you're meeting your daily requirements in these nutrients will also be important to promote proper body functioning, keeping your energy levels up, and to fight off disease and infection.

 Here are the main vitamins you should be concerned with and what to add to your diet to make sure you're getting enough.

Water Soluble Vitamins 

The first class of vitamins to be aware of is the water soluble vitamins. These are nutrients that you must take in on a daily basis because the body has no storage form of them available.

1. Vitamin B1 (Thiamine): 

The primary purpose for vitamin B1 in the body is to help your body make use of the carbohydrates you take in on a daily basis, utilizing the nutrient for energy.

Another main purpose for this nutrient is to promote a healthy nervous system where it will help maintain proper nerve transmission throughout the cells.

Where To Get It: One of the best sources of vitamin B1 in the diet comes from sunflower seeds, with a quarter cup supplying almost 50% of your daily needs. Other good sources include yellowfin tuna, black beans, and lentils.

2. Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin): 

Another variation of the B vitamins, riboflavin helps the body break down and process the three macronutrients (protein, carbs, and fats), as well as promoting a healthy skin complexion.

Where To Get It: One extremely good source of vitamin B2 is Calf's liver, which supplies you over 100% of your daily needs, however since most people are not going to willingly eat this food, milk is the single most popular source of riboflavin. One glass of milk will provide almost 30% of your daily needs, so it's a simple way to make sure you're getting enough.

3. Vitamin B3 (Niacin): 

Niacin is a third B vitamin and also plays a key role in energy production and maintaining the nervous system. In addition to this, is also promotes a healthy digestive system.

Where To Get It: Chicken breast meat is a really good source if niacin and provides 72% of your daily needs per 5 oz serving. Other foods that contain niacin include yellowfin tuna, halibut, and turkey breast.

4. Vitamin C: 

Vitamin C is one of the most widely recognized vitamins for its role in helping fight off colds. It does this due to its antioxidant properties that will also help to keep your immune system safe from free radicals you encounter. Finally, vitamin C is important for maintaining proper connective tissues throughout the cartilage and tendons in the body.

Where To Get It: Many individuals commonly think of oranges when it comes to vitamin C, but they are actually lower on the list in terms of content, coming behind strawberries, brussels sprouts, broccoli, red bell peppers, and papaya, which offers over 300% of your daily needs in a two cup serving.

5. Biotin: 

Biotin is a nutrient that also allows your body to maximize the use of the other nutrients it receives and will help to maintain your red blood supply.

Since your body relies on red blood cells to transport oxygen throughout the body, it will be especially vital for those who are participating in regular physical activity.

Where To Get It: Unfortunately biotin is not found readily in high amounts in many foods at all, therefore your best bet is to make sure you're taking a good multivitamin that contains this nutrient. The food sources it can be found in, although in lower amounts include liver, legumes, swiss chard, tomatoes, romaine lettuce, and almonds.

6. Folic Acid: 

Folic acid is an especially important vitamin for females who are expecting or who are trying to become pregnant because it helps to prevent neural tube birth defects. In addition to this, it will also help with the reproduction of new cells in the body and prevent anemia.

Where To Get It: One cup of lentils proves to be a very good source of folic acid providing almost 90% of your daily needs. Other food sources for this nutrient include pinto beans, asparagus, spinach, and black beans.

Fat Soluble Vitamins

The second class of vitamins to be aware of is the fat-soluble vitamins.

7. Vitamin A: 

Vitamin A, also known as retinol, has the primary function of ensuring healthy vision and helps keep the immune system going strong since its key for the mucous membrane development. It also plays a role in bone growth, so it's important for younger individuals to ensure they are getting enough.

Where To Get It: One of the best sources of vitamin A are carrots, with a single cup supplying over 600% of your daily needs. After that, other good sources include spinach, sweet potato, winter squash, and turnips.

8. Vitamin D: 

Vitamin D is often referred to as the 'sunshine vitamin' since our bodies can manufacture this themselves when enough direct sunlight is given. The purpose of vitamin D in the body is to aid in the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, ensuring your bones grow strong and healthy.

Where To Get It: Apart from the natural source of sunlight, vitamin D is primarily found in milk that's been fortified, as well as salmon, shrimp, and whole eggs. One glass of milk will give you about 25% of your total needs, so drinking milk regularly is a good way to get both calcium and vitamin D at the same time.

9. Vitamin E: 

Vitamin E is another nutrient that acts as an antioxidant in the body and helps to promote a healthy immune system. In addition to that, it also helps with the flow of blood and also plays a key role in repairing the body's tissues, so it's important for recovery purposes from your workouts.

Where To Get It: One of the best sources of vitamin E is sunflower seeds, with a quarter of a cup giving you almost 90% of your daily needs. Other good sources to add to your diet include almonds, olives, spinach, papaya, and turnip greens.

10. Vitamin K: 

Finally, the last vitamin that you should pay attention to in your diet is vitamin K, which is important for ensuring your blood clots. If you cut yourself and are low in this nutrient, it could become a very serious situation, so something you don't want to take lightly.

Where To Get It: A very good source of vitamin K is kale, with one cup providing you over 1000% of your daily needs. Other good sources that are fairly common include spinach, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, and romaine lettuce.

 So be sure you're first taking care of your total protein, and macronutrient distribution. Once that's looked after though, don't be so quick to overlook the importance of the vitamins that you're taking in from the foods that comprise your diet.

by Shannon Clark

Eat These 5 Foods And Watch The Pounds Melt Off

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Fitness Apps - RunKeeper

 RunKeeper tracks your run via GPS on a map, while also logging your mileage, calories burned, time spent running, and other stats. That data instantly syncs up to RunKeeper's servers, where you can track your progress, set goals, and otherwise view your running life from a nice overhead view. While you're running, RunKeeper's robotic announcer can let you know how far you've come and have left to go—helpful for those needing some real-world motivation.

 Once your activity is completed, the data is synced to the RunKeeper website (www.runkeeper.com) where you can view a history of all of your activities, and cumulative totals of all of your vital stats. You can also share your progress with friends by posting your activities to Facebook and Twitter, and creating a profile page that allows people to view all of your public activities.

 You can get insight in your ear while you are doing your activities on whether you are ahead/behind your target pace, or get coached through an interval workout.

RunKeeper for iPhone is here

RunKeeper for Android is here

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