Lean Bodies Consulting IFBB FIgure Pro Testimonial

Received a really personally rewarding testimonial today from IFBB Figure Pro Melody Clere. This testimonial speaks very well to the issues so prevalent in the competitive side of our industry, which I talk against so much; as well as the converse, 'the smart, sane way' to competing and how good it can be for those open minded enough to buck what's popular and/or traditional.

The Beginning

To understand my appreciation for Erik and what he has done for me you first need to understand what I have experienced in the past. I began training for figure competitions over 6 years ago. From 2004-2009 I went through several trainers who ranged from the “local go-to experts” to nationally known... read more 3 comments

Testing The Glutes

We always talk about the big compound exercises being the cornerstone of a good training program. Obviously, when we're talking aesthetics, nice, full glutes are a requirement, especially if you're a female competitor, or just a female actually. Never mind, that, everyone wants good glutes.

So the oft mentioned glute recommendation is to squat and squat deep (don't you dare do it on the Smith machine - friends don't let friends squat in Smith machines), use single leg movements, throw in some deadlift variations, pull throughs, etc. And, this is great advice. BUT, what if your glutes don't fire properly? Will then they get the full benefit of these exercises?

But everyone's glutes fire right? Most people's? Check... read more 6 comments

Allison Ethier Two Weeks Out From The Arnold Classic

I just recently received some updated progress pictures from IFBB Fitness Pro Allison Ethier, and thought I'd post up to show everyone where she is.

We still have the fun stuff to come - all the peaking fun. This time we're probably going to do something a little different in an effort to come in a bit fuller. So less focus on any depleting and more focus on food.

One thing you should notice if you've been a follower of Allison's over the years is the marked improvement in her back and shoulders. This has been an area of focus for Allison's and so they've been hit hard, specialized on, etc. It's nice to see the fruits of... read more 9 comments

Is Empty Stomach Cardio Better For Fat Loss?

Does it matter if you do cardio in the am on an empty stomach? I get up at 4am and do my cardio at 6:30am so i've been eating my first meal of the day at 4am. Am i defeating the purpose of burning fat?

No, it does not have to be done fasted. Can it be if it's more convenient for you? Sure. But it's not something that must be done. That said, intervals and other high intensity modes should not be done fasted.

What matters isn't so much where the energy is coming from (ie. fat vs glycogen), but rather, how much you're burning (overall caloric expenditure). 300 calories is still 300 calories at the end... read more 5 comments