Protein is an essential macronutrient for muscle growth. (1) It helps repair and create new cells to build muscle. But how much protein is necessary to optimize muscle growth? Does increased protein intake lead to greater gains, or can excessive protein consumption have undesirable side effects? 

Dr. Tom Trommelen, a researcher specializing in protein metabolism at Maastricht University in the Netherlands, and PhD of sports science Dr. Milo Wolf from Stronger By Science addressed these questions on Oct. 13, 2024. Learn what happens to the consumption of excess protein below: 

[Related: Best Pre-Workout Supplements]

The Concept of Protein Synthesis

Dr. Wolf explains that protein digestion takes place in four steps:

The digestion process begins with the teeth. They perform mechanical digestion, which is breaking down food into smaller particles, increasing the surface area for enzymes to act upon.

Food moves through the digestive tract into the stomach, where gastric glands secrete hydrochloric acid (HCl) to break protein bonds into smaller peptide fragments.

Food enters the small intestine, where the walls absorb amino acids and release them into the bloodstream.

These amino acids travel throughout the body via the blood, providing various tissues with the necessary components for protein synthesis or to be oxidized for energy.

Various tissues throughout the body, not just muscles, can utilize amino acids for protein synthesis.

Your muscle has a pretty low protein turnover rate compared to other tissues, like hair.

—Dr. Milo Wolf

Dr. Wolf describes how protein can be oxidized or burned for energy through deamination, which occurs in the liver and involves the removal of the amino group. This process produces keto acids, which the body then uses to convert proteins into glucose, ultimately utilizing this end product for energy.

Protein Ingestion 

Dr. Trommelen references previous studies, including one indicating that the initial 20 grams of protein elicits a linear anabolic response, followed by an additional benefit from the next 20 grams, totaling 40 grams. Further protein intake diminishes returns, as excess protein is either burned off or oxidized. However, recent research involving participants consuming 25 grams and 100 grams of protein challenges this notion.

Image via Shutterstock/Maria Alam Sraboni

[Related: Best Whey Protein Powders]

According to Dr. Wolf, the study’s findings reveal that consuming between 25 grams and 100 grams of protein doesn’t significantly increase protein oxidation. (2) The levels of amino acids transported from the bloodstream to tissues were notably higher when participants ingested 100 grams than 25 grams. But what happens to the surplus protein?

0-4 hours: The 100-gram group exhibited a 20% increase in protein synthesis compared to the 25-gram group.

4-12 hours: The 100-gram group showed a 40% increase in protein synthesis over the 25-gram group.

The release of amino acids into the bloodstream for those consuming 100 grams didn’t cease after 12 hours, whereas for those who ingested 25 grams, the release stopped around the four-hour mark.

These findings suggest that individuals consuming 100 grams of protein in one sitting aren’t wasting protein. (3)

Dr. Trommelen noted that previous studies involved participants consuming a single meal while measuring the anabolic response over four to five hours. However, when individuals consume a substantial amount of protein, they require additional time to digest it effectively.

[Related: Best Creatine Supplements]

Protein Intake Recommendations

Dr. Trommelen recommends that athletes aim for four meals daily, encompassing breakfast, lunch, dinner, and an additional meal before bed. Breaking up meals throughout the day rather than digesting too much in a single meal aids protein distribution.

Dr. Wolf further emphasizes this method can more effectively ensure adequate total protein intake for the body.

More Nutrition Content

The 5 Best Protein Shake Recipes for Weight Gain, From a PhD in Nutrition

These Are the Best Pre-Workout Breakfast Foods to Eat, Say Dietitians

Should You Have a Protein Shake Before Bed? Here’s What RDs and Sports Dietitians Say

References

Carbone, J. W., & Pasiakos, S. M. (2019). Dietary Protein and Muscle Mass: Translating Science to Application and Health Benefit. Nutrients, 11(5), 1136. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11051136 

Schoenfeld, B. J., & Aragon, A. A. (2018). How much protein can the body use in a single meal for muscle-building? Implications for daily protein distribution. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 15, 10. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12970-018-0215-1 

Trommelen, J., van Lieshout, G. A. A., Nyakayiru, J., Holwerda, A. M., Smeets, J. S. J., Hendriks, F. K., van Kranenburg, J. M. X., Zorenc, A. H., Senden, J. M., Goessens, J. P. B., Gijsen, A. P., & van Loon, L. J. C. (2023). The anabolic response to protein ingestion during recovery from exercise has no upper limit in magnitude and duration in vivo in humans. Cell reports. Medicine, 4(12), 101324. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.xcrm.2023.101324

Featured image: Maria Alam Sraboni / Shutterstock

The post Excessive Protein Consumption, Explained  appeared first on BarBend.

Okay, so adding some of the best home gym equipment to your abode can be motivating enough to get you off your feet, but oftentimes, these treadmills, exercise bikes, and ellipticals turn into glorified coat hangers after just a few uses. Enter FightCamp — a high-intensity, punch-filled modality to help you conquer a sedentary lifestyle, which Dr. Raj Dasgupta, our expert reviewer, defines as “activities like sitting at a desk, watching TV, or using a computer for long periods without moving much.”

FightCamp’s boxing and kickboxing bundle offers a unique workout discipline for home gym enthusiasts. While not as versatile as other home gym staples — like free weights, functional trainers, or other profiles — the connected training modules and affordable price point make it a great pick for those that find more traditional at-home workouts somewhat dull. In this FightCamp review, we’ll outline the key specs of this intriguing fitness kit along with some hands-on experience notes gathered from our testing rounds.

For more information on how we test fitness equipment for all our reviews and round-ups, be sure to read the BarBend equipment testing methodology page.

Main Takeaways

You have the option to purchase one-person bundles or can build your kit out to support up to four FightCamp enthusiasts.

Per recent updates, FightCamp only offers bundled packages that include the bag, gloves, trackers, and wraps — you can no longer purchase the service without the included punching bag.

The all-new FightCamp console helps streamline your television connection and serves as a convenient charging station for your punch tracker sensors.

FightCamp Specs

As you can expect, FightCamp’s focus is on home boxing and kickboxing workouts, but the online workout program also features strength-, core-, and recovery-based sessions with more modules added weekly. Recently, the brand updated its boxing workout bundle so that FightCamp packages now include a punching bag, non-slip bag ring, heart rate monitor, punch trackers, quick wraps, and premium boxing gloves sized to your needs. Additionally, this new kit comes equipped with FightCamp’s brand-new console.

In previous iterations of the service, you needed to connect the included punch trackers via Bluetooth to a smart device such as your phone or tablet, subsequently streaming the connected workouts through that device. The all-new FightCamp console, on the other hand, essentially works like an Apple TV docking station, giving you a more streamlined pathway to follow workouts through your television screen. The FightCamp console also serves as a charging station for your punch trackers, which track your punch count and intensity throughout training.

Moving from the tech features to the more utilitarian side of the bundle, the FightCamp punching bag features a topple-free design with padding tall enough to support both boxing and kickboxing sessions. The fillable base serves as the anchor point of the entire setup, and is capable of holding up to 250 pounds of water or up to 350 pounds of sand for added sturdiness.

Our tester using FightCamp for a workout

Whichever fill you choose is up to you, but from my experience with other punching bags, I’d recommend opting for water — it’s far easier to fill the reservoir, and you can drain the vessel if you ever need to move the bag further than a few feet. Plus, I like how FightCamp also includes a non-slip bag ring in the base kit, which serves as a sort of guide rail for your bag’s base. With the ring in place, you won’t need to worry about your target slipping and sliding across your home gym flooring mid-workout.

The included boxing gloves and quick hand wraps are available in small (for those 5 feet, 7 inches and under) and large (for those 5 feet, 8 inches and over), giving you some room to customize your boxing equipment to your specific body type. You can also order bundles with up to four pairs of boxing gloves and quick wraps, perfect for active families with multiple FightCamp users. Think of it as your own little FightCamp tribe.

Finally, the FightCamp app is a subscription-based service costing $39 monthly. The platform features instructor-led workouts led by world-class instructors and offers real-time progress tracking similar to the in-studio feel you’d see on such silhouettes as the Peloton Bike. Of course, this service does require some additional financial planning. While you may be able to afford the initial equipment bundle, you should also ensure that the monthly subscription fees won’t compromise your yearly budget.

Who Should Use / Who Shouldn’t Use FightCamp

FightCamp can be a fun way to burn 100 calories or more each day, but those haymakers and jabs aren’t everyone’s cup of tea. Below are some groups we think could benefit from adding FightCamp to their living room gym, and those that may fare better with more traditional home gym essentials.

Recommended for:

Athletes looking to reimagine their home gym training with a new modality

People interested in boxing classes with more of a personal feel

Those that cannot fit more traditional equipment into their smaller training spaces

Not Recommended for:

Those more interested in traditional cardio and strength-training disciplines

Athletes not wanting to subscribe to another online workout program

Individuals that already own a heavy bag

Our Experience Training With FightCamp

While the boxing workouts offered through FightCamp were admittedly a deviation from our normal training routines, we have had experience with hundreds of home gym machines and equipment. We took the processes learned from those testing protocols and applied it here, examining FightCamp’s setup and assembly, in-training performance, tech features, versatility, and more. We then rated these findings on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest).

Quick, Simple Assembly

One of the first things our tester noted when getting FightCamp set up for training was that it’s fairly plug and play. After all, you’re simply attaching the padded bag to its base and filling the reservoir for added sturdiness rather than bolting together multiple components like you would with some of the best rowing machines or exercise bikes.

“When the base is unfilled, everything is simple to move and arrange,” our tester states. “Plus, the padded bag attached quickly to the stable base, and throwing the workout mat down to get the ring into position is a breeze.”

We did rate the assembly process at 4 out of 5, though, given the filling process for the bottom reservoir. The brand states that water or sand should be used in quantities of 250 pounds or 350 pounds, respectively. Sand is the better option from a logistics standpoint as it won’t slosh around during heavy hits. However, the fill port is somewhat small and it can be difficult to fill from, especially if you don’t have the proper granule size.

Our tester squaring up for a punch across FightCamp’s free-standing punching bag

I’ve had free-standing punching bags before and definitely prefer the convenience of water. For one, it’s readily available and doesn’t require a trip to your local hardware store. Plus, it can be drained if you need to pack up your FightCamp bundle for an upcoming move or need to place it in storage for an extended period.

Lastly, we’ve yet to set up the new FightCamp Console technology, but from the brand’s tutorial videos and instruction manuals, it appears as simple as plugging in any HDMI device to your television screen.

Competitive Leaderboards

The Bluetooth-enabled punch tracker sensors are what turn FightCamp into its own connected boxing gym. The sensors allow you to track your punch counts through each session as they tally up across your screen. Plus, we like how FightCamp has given these combos a sense of competition in live workouts. Naturally, you’re not trying to knock anyone out, but rather, you’re “racing” against others to get the most connections.

“I also appreciate that you can stream your favorite playlists during workouts,” says our tester, who rated the tech features at 3.5 out of 5. “I believe this perk is only available to Apple users, but I don’t have an Android-powered device to compare.”

You may be wondering why the positive notes expressed above generated a mid-range rating. Well, that’s due to the punch trackers not necessarily picking up every jab and strike during our full-body workouts. According to our tester, there were a few hits that failed to register with the service. It may seem like a small bug to deal with when in the throes of training, but if you’re really duking it out with fellow classmates, every punch counts.

One Punch Pony

While FightCamp can be a fun, intriguing way to get your heart pumping, and the entire bundle is some of the best compact exercise equipment for athletes in small spaces, admittedly, it’s far more niche than other training staples. After all, your pace and intensity are directly related to the sessions you take, and there are few alterations you can make to your workout outside of choosing a non-boxing session from the library. Plus, there are no resistance levels to choose from, so you’re reliant on your pace when it comes to how challenging you want your workouts to be.

FightCamp also doesn’t feature any means to employ resistance training like you’d see with free weights or cable machines. Amanda Capritto, certified personal trainer and our expert reviewer, lists some of the benefits of resistance training as “increased muscle mass, strength, bone density and bone health, improved mental health and confidence, balance and coordination, and independence into old age.” (1)

Our tester using FightCamp for a training session

We also rated the versatility at 1.75 out of 5, as the kit relies entirely on your buy-in to the brand’s library of connected sessions. If you’re an athlete well-versed in combat sports and are just looking to hit the bag for a few minutes each day, odds are you understand which combos to throw to generate a caloric burn. If this is you, it can be cheaper to simply opt for a pair of high-quality boxing gloves and a free-standing punching bag, which can oftentimes come at a cost below the base $999 price of FightCamp.

We’re not here to say that FightCamp isn’t a worthwhile home gym option. However, we recommend that you think through your personal fitness goals before signing up for the service and acquiring your gear. Are you going to want to throw bows day in and day out, or is this a side quest you can soon lose interest in?

What to Consider Before Buying FightCamp

When working through the steps to building your home gym, you need to think of a few factors along the way, regardless of whether you plan on adding FightCamp to your roster or not. Below are some of the considerations we always recommend pondering over during this process when looking to add to your at-home training oasis.

Fitness Goals: What you want to accomplish in training can greatly determine which gear you need to support your performance. Think through your personal aspirations and align your purchases with what makes sense.

Product Dimensions: There’s no sense in ordering fitness equipment that won’t even make it through the door. Take some measurements within your training space and ensure your picks can fit comfortably. It can also be wise to extend these measurements to confirm you can get in, on, off, and around your gear without complications.

Training Interests: Your home gym equipment should serve as tools you don’t mind using day in and day out. For example, if you despise cycling, it doesn’t make sense to purchase one of the best exercise bikes, does it?

Price: No piece of fitness gear should compromise your budget. Crunch some numbers prior to purchase and confirm that you can comfortably afford the purchase as well as any required subscription services when relevant.

FightCamp Vs. Competitors

Okay, so comparing FightCamp to other home gym silhouettes can be a little tricky — there aren’t multiple combat-related products to choose from. So, to give you something to compare the product to, we’ve taken the different principles of the package and stacked them side-by-side to relative profiles. For the connected fitness aspect, we’ve compared FightCamp to Tonal. From a more utilitarian standpoint, we selected Century’s Wavemaster XXL Training Bag.

In terms of versatility, Tonal can be a great option for athletes looking to bring their workouts home. The plethora of accessories and multiple resistance-training sessions make it a go-to for calorie-burning sessions. However, the upfront costs and subscription price of Tonal trumps the numbers relative to FightCamp, so if you’re looking to save a few dollars, it may be best to step through the (virtual) ropes.

When it comes to free-standing punching bags, I cannot recommend Century’s Wavemaster lineup more. The 52-inch pad height is tall enough to support kickboxing endeavors, and I’ve yet to see a Wavemaster topple over after a hard hit or connection. However, you do need to have some sort of game plan together when training with this profile. There are no connected features like an on-screen instructor with this pick. As a standalone bag, it could be worth your time and money, but as a dedicated connected fitness vessel, FightCamp wins this one-on-one bout.

Ordering and Assembling FightCamp

Assembling the FightCamp bundle is as simple as connecting the padded bag to its base and filling the bottom reservoir with water or sand. Per FightCamp, you’ll need roughly 250 pounds of water or 350 pounds of sand to fill the vessel. Sand can be a sturdier option, but will require a very fine sand to pass through the porthole (as well as the extra trip to the hardware store).

We’ve yet to set up the all-new FightCamp Console, so we do not have notes on that process yet. However, the brand does have plenty of tutorial videos on how to connect the system to your television and get your punch trackers connected to your account.

Places to Buy FightCamp

FightCamp bundles can be purchased directly from the brand’s retail site. Currently, You have the option to purchase boxing glove pairs for up to four people. Multi-person bundles also come with up to two heart rate monitors and up to four punch trackers.

Brand Reputation and Customer Reviews

Per the brand, “FightCamp‘s values are rooted in traditional boxing culture. We believe in fighting through adversity, making meaningful progress, and building strong, consistent habits.” The brand’s combat-oriented home gym kit has garnered positive reviews online since its inception, earning a 4.9 out of 5 based on over 21,000 Apple Store responses.

Our tester using FightCamp for a kickboxing session

“This is kind of a life-changing program for me,” notes one positive customer response. “I do a lot of different exercises, and I have come to realize through FightCamp that the heavy bag training has become my absolute favorite.”

To reach the brand with regards to any inquiries, FightCamp is available via email at info@joinfightcamp.com. Additionally, you can utilize the brand’s Live Chat feature at the bottom right of the retail site as well as call (240)-307-5890. Support hours are 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET from Monday through Friday, as well as 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. ET on Saturdays and Sundays.

[Related: Boxing Lessons for Powerlifters]

Warranties

FightCamp comes with a 30-day return policy, which can be helpful if you suddenly realize that boxing workouts aren’t your favorable discipline of choice. However, the brand must approve your reason for return prior to submitting your refund minus shipping costs.

Additionally, FightCamp offers a 1-year warranty for any defects in workmanship and materials. Of course, this is less substantial coverage than, say, the warranty bundle you’d see from some of the best treadmills, but at least there is some support in case you find an errant rip or tear across your bag or mitts.

Final Thoughts on FightCamp

As home gym equipment, FightCamp can be an excellent bundle for those wanting to mix up their daily workouts. Plus, this best treadmill alternative can be more affordable than the running-oriented profiles with packaged prices starting at $999. You’ll need to be dedicated to combat sports as a fitness endeavor, but the service and workouts can be more than enough to get those calories burning.

Before you finalize your cart, though, it helps to treat FightCamp as you would any other piece of home gym equipment. Take some measurements, look at your budget, and really think through your preferred fitness interests. If everything aligns, you’ll be on your way to knocking out your goals in no time.

FightCamp FAQs

References

Westcott, W. L. (2012). Resistance training is medicine. Current Sports Medicine Reports, 11(4), 209–216. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22777332/

The post FightCamp Review (2024): Knock Out Your Training with This Unique Home Gym appeared first on BarBend.

When it comes to the best rowing machines, there are no shortage of silhouettes these days, even within specific brands. For example, the NordicTrack RW700 serves as the middle child to the more luxe RW900 and budget-friendly RW600. This RW700 profile still carries many of the same features, including iFIT integration, SmartAdjust technology, and a whisper-quiet Silent Magnetic Resistance system. So, the question remains, what separates this sub-$1,500 rowing machine from the pack?

In our opinion, the RW700 can be a solid compromise for NordicTrack fans. You get a more compact frame than that of the RW600 yet aren’t paying the near-$2,000 price tag of the RW900. There’s some give and take in terms of monitor size, but there’s still plenty of homes out there where this high-quality machine fits comfortably. In this NordicTrack RW700 Rower review, we’ll outline the key specs and features of this machine and provide insight gathered from our hands-on testing experience.

For more information on how we test equipment for our round-ups and reviews, be sure to read the BarBend equipment testing methodology page.

Main Takeaways

With an overall footprint of 11.89 square feet, this NordicTrack rower is one of the best compact rowing machines from the brand. 

The weight capacity is only 250 pounds, so larger athletes may want to opt for a sturdier profile.

The RW700, like other NordicTrack home gym machines, is compatible with the iFIT fitness app and its library of over 17,000 on-demand workouts.

NordicTrack RW700 Rower Specs

While this is the middle tier of NordicTrack rowers between the NordicTrack RW900 and RW600 profiles, the RW700 is the most compact of the bunch. It has a footprint of 11.89 square feet — roughly half the footprint of your standard three-seat sofa. (1) For reference, the RW900 takes up 12.13 square feet of space while the cheaper RW600 clocks in at 14.44 square feet.

Outside of the product dimensions (and price), the lone differentiator between these rowers is their monitor size. The NordicTrack RW600 is equipped with the smallest display at 7 inches, while the RW900 features the largest display — a 22-inch Tilt & Pivot Smart HD touchscreen. The mid-grade RW700 comes with a 10-inch Tilt & Pivot Smart HD touchscreen, making it a great option for off-rower workouts available through the iFIT platform (more on that later). 

Like the best NordicTrack treadmills, exercise bikes, and more, the RW700 is compatible with iFIT. This service gives you access to over 17,000 on-demand workouts across multiple disciplines, including cardio, strength training, yoga, HIIT, and more. iFIT integration also brings NordicTrack’s automatic trainer control (or “SmartAdjust”) technology to this fitness equipment. Rather than pausing your stream to toggle your resistance settings, the RW700 will automatically adjust your settings for you as you pace through your session.

Our tester training atop the NordicTrack RW900 — a larger cousin to the RW700

Other tech features across the RW700 include Bluetooth headphone connectivity, a premium sound system, and the brand’s signature Silent Magnetic Resistance flywheel. This whisper-quiet resistance system (abbreviated SMR) offers athletes 26 digital resistance levels, perfect for fine-tuning your training intensity. That said, the use of magnetic resistance does make the RW700 more expensive than other rowers on the market, including many of the best air rowing machines and water rowers.

Finally, Amanda Capritto, certified personal trainer and our expert reviewer, states, “You’ll need to ensure [your rower] will fit in your space and be relatively easy to move if you won’t be able to leave it stationary.” Thankfully, the RW700 features a manageable product weight of 146 pounds, and the profile comes equipped with front-mounted transport wheels for easier portability.

There is no ergonomic handle at the rear base, though, so you’ll need to grasp the frame firmly during transport. Additionally, the RW700 doesn’t fold up like other compact rowing machines, though the profile is capable of vertical storage — a definite plus for those that need to regain some floor space post-workout.

Who Should Use / Who Shouldn’t Use the NordicTrack RW700 Rower

“Rowing is great for those who want a full-body workout and are looking for a form of cardio that is low impact,” notes Lauren Keary, BarBend editorial team member and former collegiate rower. However, different athletes may need or want different attributes from their rowing machine of choice. Below are some groups we think could benefit from adding the NordicTrack RW700 to their home gym setup along with some camps that may be more satisfied with a different rowing experience.

Recommended for:

Athletes training in smaller spaces

Individuals wanting an iFIT-compatible rower without the near-$2,000 equipment cost

People desiring a pivoting display for off-rower workouts

Not Recommended for:

Those wanting a large touchscreen console

Individuals who prefer the more natural flywheel sensation of air and water rowing machines

Heavier athletes needing a machine capable of supporting over 250 pounds

Our Experience Training With the NordicTrack RW700 Rower

Admittedly, we haven’t had a ton of experience with the RW700 from NordicTrack, but we have had extended time with the RW900. Given the similarities between the two rower profiles — and our experience testing nearly 20 different rowers over the years — we feel qualified to provide the following insight, quantifying our findings on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest).

iFIT Programming

One of the main perks associated with this RW700 profile is its use of the iFIT, one of the best online workout programs we’ve tested. The library of iFIT classes includes over 17,000 on-demand courses with new additions popping up regularly.

We’ve used iFIT on several pieces of NordicTrack and ProForm home fitness equipment and always enjoy the engaging workouts and lively instructors. Our tester, a CrossFit Level-1 instructor, states, “I regularly use this app, yet no matter how many sessions I’ve logged, I always feel engaged and invested in the workouts thanks to the energy brought by the iFIT trainers. There’s also no shortage of metrics shown across the display, giving you plenty of feedback on your performance and output.”

Our tester browsing the iFIT library available on the NordicTrack RW900 Rower.

Additionally, we rated the available programming at 5 out of 5 thanks to iFIT’s expansive library beyond just rowing workouts. You can find cardio, strength training, yoga, HIIT, and more. Plus, the Tilt & Pivot Smart HD touchscreen does allow for more convenient off-rower viewing angles — a true plus given the smaller screen size.

Lastly, we’d be remiss to not mention iFIT’s SmartAdjust technology. This feature automatically toggles your resistance settings in tune with your on-screen instructor rather than having you pause your progress to make adjustments accordingly. “This added convenience does wonders for my focus,” adds our tester. “I can really zone in on my intensity rather than worrying about matching my settings to my chosen module.”

Silent Magnetic Resistance

Another convenient perk of the RW700 is its inertia-enhanced flywheel powered by Silent Magnetic Resistance. Rather than the woosh of air or slosh of water you’d experience with the best water rowing machines or air rowers, this system operates with little audio output. This can be great for those training around other house dwellers or napping children.

The Silent Magnetic Resistance system also scored a 4 out of 5 thanks to its seamless transitions across the 26 available resistance levels. Toggling the settings manually is a breeze with the ergonomic haptics showcased across the 10-inch Smart HD touchscreen, and the SmartAdjust technology shows little hesitation when following along to your favorite trainer-led sessions.

Our tester strapping in for a workout with the RW700 rowing machine from NordicTrack

“I’d also like to point out that NordicTrack rowers give you far more resistance options than the standard 12 levels I’ve found in other rowers,” notes our tester, a CrossFit Level-1 instructor. “This can be ideal for high-intensity training enthusiasts looking for that extra sense of challenge from one workout to the next. I’ve trained at levels across the range and I definitely feel like there’s a selection for every workout need.”

Middle Child Syndrome

As we’ve pointed out throughout this review, the NordicTrack RW700 is very similar to both the smaller RW600 and larger RW900 rower. This can be a bit of a pickle for athletes, as the profile isn’t necessarily a “best of both worlds” example.

Compared to the RW900, the RW700’s main difference is the smaller display size — 10 inches compared to 22 inches. For reference, that’s like comparing a 10th generation iPad to an iMac display. (2)(3) You do get a smaller footprint of 11.89 square feet, but a lower user capacity of 250 pounds, too. NordicTrack justifies these alterations with a $500 price difference, but is that worth the drop in weight capacity and screen size?

Our tester moving the NordicTrack RW900 — a cousin of the RW700 — into position for a workout

On the opposite side of the coin, the RW600 features a smaller, non-pivoting monitor and larger footprint, but carries the same iFIT integration, weight rating, and build components for less than $1,000. Again, are those 3 extra inches of screen worth $500 when you’re essentially getting the exact same machine?

In our opinion, it really comes down to what you truly want out of your at-home rower and what you’re willing to spend. If you want the best viewing experience possible, we’d recommend ponying up the extra $500 for the RW900 — the display difference is too much to ignore. If you’re wanting the best bang for your buck, the RW600 is one of the best rowing machines under $1,000 out there. The RW700 does feature the Tilt & Pivot touchscreen, though, making it the better pick if you regularly partake in off-rower workouts.

What to Consider Before Buying the NordicTrack RW700 Rower

To unlock the benefits of rowing machines, you need to first start off with the correct rower for your needs. Whether browsing for the NordicTrack RW700 Rower or another model from a different brand, here are a few considerations worth pondering over before finalizing your online cart.

Resistance Type: According to Amanda Capritto, certified personal trainer and our expert reviewer, deciding on your preferred resistance type should be your first point of action when purchasing a rowing machine. “Air rowers use fan flywheels; water rowers use fan flywheels against the resistance of water in a tank; magnetic rowers use electromagnetic resistance; and hydraulic rowers, which are less expensive but functionally limited compared to the other three types, use hydraulic cylinders in the handles to create resistance,” she states.

Product Dimensions: You’ll also want to ensure that your new home gym machine can actually fit within your training space. For example, those working out in tighter quarters may fare better with one of the best rowing machines for apartments as opposed to a lengthier silhouette better suited for taller athletes.

Available Programming: Having the ability to stream online workout programs and other entertainment services can help improve your engagement with your rowing workouts. That said, these added tech features can lead to higher price tags across the machines themselves along with any required subscriptions. Think through your fitness goals and determine whether these services are a must or if you can get by with some built-in modules or a flat manual mode.

Price: Take a gander at your finances and determine your spending power when it comes to your new rowing machine. On average, you can expect to pay between $1,000 and $3,000 for a high-quality machine, according to our research.

NordicTrack RW700 Rower Vs. Competitors

Naturally, the RW700 is not the lone rowing machine available to consumers (it’s not even the lone NordicTrack rower on the market). Below, we’ve outlined the key specs of two comparable rowing machines — the Concept2 RowERG and Aviron Strong Series Rower — to paint a clearer picture as to how the RW700 stacks up to these other popular silhouettes.

If there’s one iconic profile in the rowing category, it has to be the Concept2 RowERG. “Most professional rowers train with air rowers like the Concept2,” notes Lauren Keary, BarBend editorial team member and former collegiate rower. The RowERG utilizes air resistance to create a natural intensity within each stroke, and the price point and weight capacity are more approachable than that of the RW700. The length of this rower can pose a problem, though, for athletes training in small spaces, and there are no streaming capabilities across the console.

For those interested in gamified rowing workouts, the Aviron Strong Series Rower can be an interesting pick. In addition to arcade-style training modules, you can take part in virtual rowing sessions, compete against other Aviron users in online games, or just kick back and peruse the media suite that supports apps such as Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+. That said, the RW700 is roughly $1,000 less, making it the better budget option for athletes.

Ordering and Assembling the NordicTrack RW700 Rower

We haven’t had much experience with the RW700 specifically, but from our experience with other RW silhouettes from the NordicTrack brand, we can attest that the assembly process is rather simple. Given the length and weight of the sliding rail system, though, we recommend having a helping set of hands at the ready to hold any cumbersome pieces in position during construction. This assistance can also prove beneficial when trying to move the RW700 into its final location.

As far as shipping is concerned, NordicTrack offers three packages. With free Standard Shipping, your RW700 will be delivered to the first place out of weather when feasible. Room of Choice Delivery and Assembly ($249) will have expert handlers deliver the rower to your room of choice. These technicians will also assemble your new piece of home gym equipment and remove any packaging materials prior to their departure.

NordicTrack’s third and most expensive delivery option is Delivery, Assembly, and Disposal of Old Equipment. This $348 service offers the same perks as Room of Choice Delivery and Assembly with the added perk that one piece of old fitness equipment will be removed from your home. This can be a worthwhile package for athletes looking to replace, say, a dilapidated exercise bike with the RW700.

Places to Buy the NordicTrack RW700 Rower

The NordicTrack RW700 Rower is available online directly from NordicTrack as well as through popular third-party retailers including DICK’S Sporting Goods, Target, and others. You can also find the RW700 on Amazon, although we’ve only located the silhouette on small business storefronts rather than the official NordicTrack store.

[Related: NordicTrack Promo Codes]

Brand Reputation and Customer Reviews

Serving as one of the top brands for the best treadmills, exercise bikes, ellipticals, and more, NordicTrack has long been rooted in the home gym sector thanks to its wide range of fitness equipment catering to different needs. The brand offers budget-minded profiles along with tech-heavy picks loaded with the latest integrations and digital conveniences.

To reach NordicTrack with any inquiries, you can use the brand’s Live Chat feature found at the bottom right of the brand site. You can also speak directly to an expert by calling 1-833-680-4348.

Warranties

As we’ve seen with other NordicTrack silhouettes, including some of the best exercise bikes available today, the RW700 comes with a pretty standard Manufacturer’s Warranty. This included package offers a 10-year frame warranty, 2-year parts warranty, and 1-year labor coverage.

Our tester getting their NordicTrack rowing machine out of its vertical storage positioning

You can also purchase a 3-year extended warranty package ($199.99) that will extend the parts and labor protection to 5 and 4 years, respectively. A 3-year maintenance plan ($259.99) is also available that features 3-year coverage for parts and labor in addition to an annual 15-point maintenance check upon your request.

Final Thoughts on the NordicTrack RW700 Rower

The RW700 is a solid rowing machine from NordicTrack and fills the gap between the brand’s budget and luxury profiles well. The iFIT compatibility can provide athletes with plenty of engaging sessions, and the 10-inch Tilt & Pivot Smart HD touchscreen, albeit a tad small for some, can be ideal for supporting off-rower training endeavors. Naturally, though, we recommend looking at your needs, wants, and budget first to determine which NordicTrack RW silhouette is right for your space.

As with any rowing machine purchase, you’ll need to also think through your preferred resistance type along with how much available programming you want available across your machine. It can also be wise to break out your tape measure and ensure your rower of choice actually fits in your training area before boxes begin arriving at your doorstep. For those wanting a compact profile integrated with one of the best workout apps out there, the RW700 is definitely worth considering.

NordicTrack RW700 Rower FAQs

References

Jaramillo, C. (2022, August 11). A guide to sofa dimensions & sizes – seatup, LLC. SeatUp, LLC. https://seatup.com/blog/guide-to-sofa-dimensions/

IPad 10.9 (10th gen.) – technical specifications. Apple. (n.d.-b). https://www.apple.com/ipad-10.9/specs/

IMAC – technical specifications. Apple. (n.d.-a). https://www.apple.com/imac/specs/

The post NordicTrack RW700 Rower Review (2024): Bridging the Gap Between Budget and Luxury appeared first on BarBend.

If you need a quick, convenient meal or need to supplement your calorie-burning fitness endeavors, the best meal replacements pack in high-quality carb, fat, and protein counts in one calorie-dense serving. Unfortunately, though, these supplements are oftentimes plagued by limited flavor varieties and bland taste … unless you’re looking at Huel Black Edition Meal Replacement. With nine tastes to choose from and no artificial sweeteners, GMOs, or animal byproducts, this tasty shake can fit seamlessly into a wide range of diets.

We’ve tested dozens of meal replacement powders and pre-made shakes over the years and feel that Huel’s Black Edition is one of the most flavorful picks on the market. The powder is also 100% plant-based making it a solid solution for vegan and vegetarian athletes. In this Huel Black Edition Meal Replacement review, we’ll dive deep into this supplement’s formulation and give insight into its real-world traits like taste and texture. For more information on how we test products for our round-ups and reviews, be sure to check out our BarBend supplement testing methodology page.

Medical disclaimer: The content on BarBend is meant to be informative in nature, but it should not be taken as medical advice. The opinions and articles on this site are not intended for use as diagnosis, prevention, and/or treatment of health problems. It’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor before beginning a new fitness, nutritional, and/or supplement routine. Individual needs for vitamins and minerals will vary.

Main Takeaways

Huel Black Edition is composed of plant-based ingredients, making it a great meal replacement option for vegan athletes or those abstaining from animal-based protein sources.

We recommend using a countertop blender for mixing, as each serving calls for 17 fluid ounces of water and 90 grams of powder — that may be too much for even the best shaker bottle.

Some flavor options are priced higher than others, so your order total may differ depending on your taste preferences.

Huel Black Edition Specs

While some of the best protein powders can deliver high protein counts, they rarely contain enough calories or other macronutrients to substitute a full meal. Huel Black Edition, on the other hand, contains 400 calories per serving, along with up to 41 grams of protein, up to 25 grams of carbohydrates, and up to 18 grams of healthy fats, depending on your flavor of choice.

“I really like how balanced the makeup is across the three macronutrients,” notes Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, registered dietitian nutritionist and our expert reviewer. “While I typically like to see more carbs in meal replacement shakes, the 20 to 25 grams featured here still trumps the typical counts I’ve found in other popular options.”

A high-calorie protein powder may sound destined for muscle gain or bulking needs, but Huel Black Edition has also been a popular pick for those pursuing weight loss, too. We attribute this to the supplement’s convenience over whole-food meal options and its ability to keep you satiated and energized between snacks or bigger meals. Of course, you’ll still need to aim for a calorie deficit at the end of the day (aka using more energy than you consume) — the most efficient strategy for weight loss maintenance. (1)

An open container of Huel Black Edition Meal Replacement

This Huel powder is also 100% plant-based with no animal byproducts, GMOs, or artificial sweeteners. This can be excellent for athletes following a vegan diet or those looking for an animal-free or dairy-free supplement. Huel Black Edition does contain added sugars, though, so be sure to take your own sensitivities into question prior to purchase.

In terms of the packaging, each container has 17 servings, with each dosage measuring roughly 90 grams. This can pose a problem during mixing procedures, as you’ll need a vessel that can house that much powder in addition to the prescribed 17 fluid ounces of water. There are shaker cups big enough for such needs, but we’ve found that a countertop blender is best suited for the tasks.

Huel Black Edition is offered in nine different flavor varieties including an Unflavored & Unsweetened version that can be great for mixing into smoothies and other beverages. These nine options create one of the most robust flavor rosters we’ve found in the best mass gainer supplements, giving you more room to explore interesting tastes beyond your classic Chocolate and Vanilla (don’t worry, Huel offers those, too).

Finally, while Huel Black Edition does not contain any proprietary blends and Huel itself seems like a trustworthy brand, this meal replacement is not third-party tested. According to Aimee Gershberg, registered dietitian and our expert reviewer, “Since protein powders are technically dietary supplements, they are not regulated by the FDA, so there is no way to know for sure what a protein powder truly contains. It is best to look for a protein powder that is third-party tested.”

Who Should Use / Who Shouldn’t Use Huel Black Edition

Huel Black Edition can be a nutritious option for plenty of athletes, but as is the case with everything from the best pre-workout supplements, to creatine, greens powders, and more, the fit can vary from one person to the next. Below are a few camps we think can benefit from Huel Black Edition, along with some groups that may favor a different meal replacement pick.

Recommended for:

Individuals looking for a calorie-dense, dairy-free protein powder

Athletes needing a meal replacement for convenient sustenance on the go

People struggling to meet their daily caloric needs through whole-food sources

Not Recommended for:

Athletes looking for an animal-based protein source

Individuals with known allergies to tree nuts

Budget-minded people not able or willing to pay the heightened cost per serving

Our Experience Using Huel Black Edition

Over the years, we’ve gotten hands-on with over 100 different protein powders, including dozens of meal replacement shakes. We used similar testing methodologies to analyze Huel Black Edition in such categories as taste, solubility, formulation, and more. We rated these results on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest).

Ingredients and Formulation

This best vegan protein powder earns high remarks from our tester, a certified personal trainer, when it comes to its formulation. “I was really pleased with the balance of macronutrients, essential vitamins, and minerals,” they note. “Plus, the plant-based ingredients can be more accommodating for vegan athletes that may be averse to other meal replacements that sometimes rely on animal-based sources.”

Speaking of the protein content, Huel Black Edition utilizes both brown rice protein and pea protein to create its 40-gram serving. This, in turn, makes this powder a complete protein with a more comprehensive amino acid profile. Consuming a complete protein option can be helpful for individuals following a plant-based diet who otherwise may struggle to consume the correct amounts of BCAAs and essential amino acids through their regular diet. (2)

A pamphlet outlining the whole-food ingredients featured in Huel Black Edition Meal Replacement

We also enjoyed the formulation given its clean makeup. Huel Black Edition is listed as gluten-free, dairy-free, non-GMO, and free of artificial sweeteners. That said, this makeup does include added sugars as well as tree nuts in the form of coconut (the FDA classifies them as tree nuts for the purposes of food labeling). Those allergic to tree nuts may want to steer clear of this meal replacement as we haven’t found a flavor option that forgoes the inclusion of coconut.

While the above facts are all promising and positive, we did rate the formulation at a conservative 3.5 out of 5. “I recommended this score as I feel the carb counts are still a little low to classify this as a premium meal replacement,” says Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, our expert reviewer. “That said, it’s a far more balanced composition than I’ve seen in other powders.”

[Related: Are Meal Replacements Healthy?]

Taste

It can be difficult to hit your daily protein intake when your supplement of choice isn’t, well, tasty. We’ve seen this happen more than we’d like to admit with meal replacement shakes, too. Huel Black Edition, on the other hand, is closer to our list of best-tasting protein powders thanks to its sweet yet not sugary profile and nine available flavor options.

According to our tester, who rates the taste at 5 out of 5, “I actually looked forward to drinking this in the morning. It was sweet, for sure, but not tooth-rotting. Plus, the thicker consistency almost gives it a smoothie-like sensation. I’m very pleased and will likely continue turning to this powder as my go-to meal replacement.”

The variety of flavors are also noteworthy with this powder. While other meal replacements typically stick to, on average, between five and six options, Huel Black Edition is available in nine. This can be great for those wanting to avoid any flavor fatigue after regular use. Be mindful, though, that some flavors are more expensive than others. For example, we’ve noticed that Cookies & Cream and Cinnamon Roll containers cost roughly $58 while the rest of the roster is available for $53.

Solubility

When thinking of the pros and cons of meal replacement shakes, one often gets ignored — mixability. Given the large serving sizes (and required liquid) blending these powders into a smooth consistency can be a real struggle at times. Thankfully, our tester, a certified personal trainer, notes that Huel Black Edition mixed well within their shaker cup, albeit with some extra effort.

“I was able to break down the powdery clumps with a few harsh shakes,” they say, “But I was happy with the consistency and texture of the protein shake itself. It’s thicker than your typical protein powder, but when the serving size is two large scoops, I sort of expected that.”

An open container of Huel Black Edition Meal Replacement with the included serving scoop

We rate the solubility at 4.5 out of 5 given Huel Black Edition’s ability to be mixed in a shaker bottle, but we do still recommend using a countertop blender when possible. Not only can this kitchen appliance keep your supplement blending protocols from turning into a full-fledged arm workout, but blenders are often large enough to better accommodate the 90 grams of powder and 17 fluid ounces of water.

[Related: How to Clean Your Protein Shaker Bottle]

Standard shaker bottles typically have enough room for 20 fluid ounces of liquid, meaning the 17 fluid ounces needed for these shakes leave little room for the powder to rest before blending. Unless you want to carefully balance your powder atop the water before you begin to shake, you’ll need a larger vessel.

Editor’s Note: The brand also offers Huel Ready to Drink shakes that eliminate the need for excessive mixing. However, these protein shakes are more expensive than their powdered counterpart and come in fewer available flavors.

Price Per Serving

Given the nutrients, essential vitamins, and high protein and calorie counts, meal replacement shakes are often some of the most expensive protein powders on the market. The average cost, according to our research, equates to roughly $4.04 per serving. Huel Black Edition is lower than this median cost, but the prices that start at roughly $3.12 are still expensive when compared to, say, the best whey isolates.

We rated the price per serving at 3 out of 5, too, given that you only have one container size option meaning there are no possibilities to buy in bulk for a lower cost. That said, we can’t deny that Huel Black Edition is more affordable than other meal replacement shakes we’ve seen, including a few of the most popular profiles on the market (more on those later).

Third-Party Testing

Huel scores a 2 out of 5 for third-party testing because, well, the product is not third-party tested. Yes, we’ve highlighted the potential health benefits of this meal replacement powder and feel as if the label is transparent enough for most needs, but there is something particularly assuring about a product that carries these certification credentials. It can be especially important for strength athletes, too, who need to abide by governing agencies and steer clear of any potentially banned substances within their supplements.

What to Consider Before Buying Huel Black Edition

Whether looking at meal replacements to help you lose weight, gain muscle, or just maintain a sense of well-being in between whole-food dishes, there are a few factors to consider prior to purchase. Below are some of our recommendation considerations when shopping for a high-quality meal replacement shake such as Huel Black Edition.

Macronutrient Profile: You’ll need to seek out a meal replacement shake that offers reasonable protein, carb, and fat counts as they relate to your fitness goals and interests. For example, if you’re looking for a keto-friendly or low-carb option, make sure that your meal replacement works with your macros accumulated through whole foods to maintain your desired intake.

Dietary Restrictions: If you need to be mindful of personal sensitivities to specific ingredients like dairy or tree nuts, it’s always advised to read through listed ingredients and available warnings. Meal replacements can be convenient solutions, but they shouldn’t compromise your well-being in the process.

Taste and Solubility: You should look forward to enjoying your meal replacement, so we recommend seeking out powders with appealing flavors. Like the best protein bars, it can also be wise to look for supplements with a smooth consistency and mouthfeel. This latter note can be difficult to determine through a screen, though, so be sure to check out any available reviews of the product prior to purchase.

Price: Always ensure that your meal replacement of choice won’t throw off your budget. After all, the best supplements for you are always the ones that you can afford comfortably.

Huel Black Edition Vs. Competitors

Naturally, Huel Black Edition is not the lone meal replacement powder available to consumers. Below, we’ve outlined the key specs for two highly comparable options — Ka’Chava Whole Body Meal and HLTH Code Complete Meal.

Ka’Chava Whole Body Meal Replacement is another plant-based meal replacement made up of over 85 superfood ingredients. This all-in-one instant meal also features a probiotic blend to aid in digestion as well as an adaptogen blend to help with cognitive function.

Huel Black Edition is a more wallet-friendly option, though, as Ka’Chava’s cost per serving comes in at $4.66. Plus, Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, registered dietitian nutritionist and our expert reviewer, notes, “I’d like to see fewer proprietary blends across the ingredients list. I’m a fan of the superfood inclusions, but understanding the exact dosages can go a long way in ensuring just how nutritious this meal replacement is.”

As one of the best meal replacements for weight loss, HLTH Code’s Complete Meal features comparable calorie and protein counts across its formulation to Huel Black Edition. This meal replacement also uses no added sugar and instead gets its sweetness from monk fruit extract and stevia. That said, the price is still higher than the Huel offering, and you only have two flavor options to choose from.

Places to Buy Huel Black Edition

Huel Black Edition is available online directly from the brand’s retail site as a one-time purchase or through Huel’s “Subscribe & Save” service that cuts the price per serving down to $2.50. Plus, Huel offers a free t-shirt and shaker bottle for first-time buyers. You can also find Huel Black Edition on Amazon with similar “Subscribe & Save” services.

Customer Experience and Brand Reputation

Huel — a portmanteau of Human and Fuel — is a supplement brand specializing in, as the brand puts it, “Nutritionally complete, convenient, affordable food with minimal impact on animals and the environment.” Huel products include high-protein meal replacement shakes, greens powders, nutrition bars, and even “Hot and Savoury” instant meals.

According to reviews from trustpilot.com, Huel Black Edition has earned a 4.2 out of 5 rating based on over 19,000 customer comments. “Exceeded my expectations,” notes one positive response. “I actually feel satiated after only half a serving, and knowing I’m getting quality nutrition gives me such peace of mind.”

[Related: Best Protein Powders on Amazon]

To reach the brand with any inquiries, you can utilize the Live Chat feature at the lower right corner of the Huel website. Huel is also reachable via email at support@huel.com and phone at (619)-648-3086. US office hours are 9AM to 5PM ET, Monday through Friday.

Our Final Verdict on Huel Black Edition

Huel’s Black Edition Meal Replacement can be a great option for those wanting extra calories to round out their daily nutrition regimen, especially those who struggle to consume all their macronutrients through whole foods alone. The plant-based makeup is also inviting to vegan people, and the array of available flavors is one of the best assortments we’ve found in meal replacement shakes.

While meal replacement powders and shakes can be helpful in a pinch, you shouldn’t solely live on meal replacement shakes. A proper diet, regardless of your fitness goals, should be a well-rounded conglomerate of whole-food sources and supplements, alike. That said, if you do need a high-quality meal replacement to get you to your wellness aspirations, we feel Huel Black Edition can be worth your time and money.

Huel Black Edition Meal Replacement FAQs

References

Kim, J. Y. (2021). Optimal Diet Strategies for weight loss and weight loss maintenance. Journal of Obesity & Metabolic Syndrome, 30(1), 20–31. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8017325/

Cleveland Clinic. (2024, August 13). What’s a complete protein and should you care? https://health.clevelandclinic.org/do-i-need-to-worry-about-eating-complete-proteins

The post Huel Black Edition Meal Replacement Review (2024): A Well-Balanced Formula for On-the-Go Feasting appeared first on BarBend.

Lewiston, ME, tragically lost 18 people in a deadly shooting last year, leaving loved ones and an entire community heartbroken. 

Rachel Nutting, the owner of CrossFit 196, has taken it upon herself to create and host a memorial WOD to remember the victims of the tragic mass shooting. 

Credit: Rachel Nutting

Remind Me 

In October 2023, Robert Card carried out a dual shooting in a bar and bowling alley. Eighteen people were killed, and more than a dozen were left injured in the attacks. 

Card was later found dead due to self-inflicted injuries following a manhunt. 

Since then, survivors and victims of the shooting have threatened to sue the Department of Defense, the Army, and the Keller Army Community Hospital over allegations of negligence. 

One of the victims was Nutting’s neighbor, which was one of the reasons she wanted to host an event at her gym. Though none of the victims were members, the community is small and well-connected. Four of the victims who died were deaf, including Nutting’s neighbor. 

“We, as a community, I think we really took it as an opportunity for us to learn how to grieve together and process grief,” Nutting told Morning Chalk Up in an interview. 

Last year, Nutting created individual memorial workouts for each victim of the shooting. For the memorial WOD this year, Nutting created one workout to represent all of the victims.

A fellow coach is a psychotherapist and has been working directly with some of the survivors of the shooting, adds Nutting. Specifically, they have been working with the Maine Resiliency Center, which was established in the wake of the shooting. 

Event Details 

The memorial WOD is taking place on October 25 at CrossFit 196. Here are the details:

 “Everyone must give a little, and some may give much more than others,” Nutting said. “The two machines are to represent the two locations. There will be two scores: one for the community (time) and an individual score (AMRAP).”

The event’s goal is to raise funds for a scholarship program that supports the surviving victims or family members attending the gym to practice trauma-informed movement “with hopes of matriculating them into the CrossFit community so they have more support and tools.” 

“It’s really about memorializing, and to shine a light on the fact that this has happened and people have to get through it. If it happened here, it could happen anywhere,” Nutting said. 

Another future goal she has is to make posters for each of the individual memorial WODs and generate scholarship funds from the sales of those posters.

Learn more about CrossFit 196 and the work Rachel Nutting is doing here. 

More CrossFit Profiles

“It’s Time to Fan the Flame”: Lena Richter Lights a Spark in Huntington Beach

Meet the Man Who Did 1,000 Murphs

From Weightlifting to Gym Ownership: Meet Two-Time Olympian and CrossFit Affiliate Owner Wes Kitts

Featured image: Rachel Nutting

The post CrossFit 196 to Host Memorial WOD for Lewiston Shooting Victims appeared first on BarBend.

Whether they are made of wood, stone, or heat-resistant Oxford 210D nylon, the best home saunas offer a ton of benefits. The focused heat and resulting sweat have been shown to relax muscles and reduce soreness while also promoting mental clarity. (1)(2)(3) But the folks at Sweat Tent know that most of us may not be able to afford the benefits that come with a fancy in-home unit or even a health club membership.

So, what did they do? They designed a more accessible solution to bring the health benefits of sitting in a hot room to the masses. Not only does the unique design help those with limited space, but the price comes in thousands of dollars below most home saunas. But, if you aren’t satisfied with the base savings — and, really, should we ever be? — we’ve found the best ways to save even more. Read on to discover how the best Sweat Tent discount codes can help slash those prices even further.

How to Find Sweat Tent Discount Codes (2024)

If a permanent at-home sauna setup isn’t a good fit for your budget, Sweat Tent has you covered. Both their models are already far more affordable than a typical sauna build, but if you’re looking to save even more, here are the top ways to save some extra cash.

1. Email Registration

Upon arrival at sweattent.com, you’ll be greeted by a friendly invitation to join their email list. The first time I visited, the reward for my email address was a nifty $100 coupon code, but a few weeks later, that bonus changed to a complementary bucket and ladle. The bucket and ladle combo is listed for $69 in the Sweat Tent accessories section of their website, so while I’d prefer the $100 savings, it’s cool that these bonuses rotate to some degree. Also, if you miss the initial pop-up offer, you can always click the small orange button in the bottom left corner to register.

2. Loyalty Rewards

For companies that sell the best cold plunges or portable saunas, you’ll rarely see a rewards program because not many customers are racking up enough items to earn loyalty points. But Sweat Tent has crafted a creative system to keep their customers engaged and earning points that can be exchanged for discount codes. After creating your free account, you can earn points by completing these tasks:

Create an account: 20 points, one time

Create a post: 40 points, 1 time / day

Comment: 40 points, 1 time / day

Refer a Friend: 40 points, one time

Participate in challenges: Points vary

Presumably, you could create an account before purchasing your Sweat Tent. That way, you could garner enough points to earn a promo code to use on your new sauna.

3. Free Delivery

Any order over $150 store-wide will earn free shipping in the U.S. That means when you purchase the Sweat Tent, Sweat Tent XL, or combine $150 worth of accessories, you’ll pay nothing extra for shipping. The shipping policy does not specify whether this applies to only the contiguous United States or if it includes Alaska and Hawaii.

When Do Sweat Tent Products Go On Sale?

Like many big-ticket items, home saunas can often be heavily discounted around major holidays like Black Friday or New Year’s Day. To lock in the best discounts on Sweat Tent, we suggest keeping an eye on our holiday sales pages.

New Year’s fitness sales

Presidents Day fitness sales

Memorial Day fitness sales

Fourth of July fitness sales

Labor Day fitness sales

Black Friday/Cyber Monday fitness sales

Our Favorite Sweat Tent Products

When it comes to the top at-home saunas, the BarBend team loves Sweat Tent for anyone on a budget or who needs to take it on the go. Check out what we thought about our time with the Sweat Tent Outdoor Sauna.

Sweat Tent Outdoor Sauna

When it comes to budget-friendly at-home saunas, SweatTent is the winner for the BarBend team. “This is definitely below the average cost of a portable outdoor sweat tent,” says one of our testers, who rates this four-person sauna’s value and performance both 5 out of 5 while highlighting how simple it is to get going. 

[Related: How Long Should You Stay in a Sauna?]

“It was easy to get the fire going with and it only took 30 minutes to get the heat to where we were all pretty sweaty,” our tester notes. “When we put water on the sauna rocks, it quickly created a good amount of humidity.”

Why Choose Sweat Tent

Based in Cheyenne, Wyoming, Sweat Tent was established to bring the health benefits of using a sauna to those of us without thousands of dollars lying around. As their website states, “Our mission is to make home sauna & deliberate heat exposure more accessible to the public.” To reach out to the company, just visit their contact page and fill out the form — they say they’ll get back to you within 24 hours.

FAQs About Sweat Tent Discount Codes

References

Hussain, J. N., Greaves, R. F., & Cohen, M. M. (2019). A hot topic for health: Results of the Global Sauna Survey. Complementary therapies in medicine, 44, 223-234.

McGorm, H., Roberts, L. A., Coombes, J. S., & Peake, J. M. (2018). Turning up the heat: an evaluation of the evidence for heating to promote exercise recovery, muscle rehabilitation and adaptation. Sports medicine, 48(6), 1311-1328.

Ahokas EK, Ihalainen JK, Hanstock HG, Savolainen E, Kyröläinen H. A post-exercise infrared sauna session improves recovery of neuromuscular performance and muscle soreness after resistance exercise training. Biol Sport. 2023 Jul;40(3):681-689. doi: 10.5114/biolsport.2023.119289. Epub 2022 Sep 15. PMID: 37398966; PMCID: PMC10286597.

The post Sweat Tent Discount Code (2024): Could This Portable Sauna Be a Match for Your Budget? appeared first on BarBend.

The 2024 Down Under Championship (DUC) takes place in Wollongong, Australia, from October 18-20

Excitement is thick as the workouts for Australia’s largest offseason competition have been released and athletes are taking the competition floor. 

This year, DUC will host two elite divisions — individuals and pairs — for men and women.

Check out the full leaderboards for all divisions and the event schedule.   

Here’s our guide on who to watch.

[Related: Best Bumper Plates]

Elite Individual Women — 2024 Down Under Championship

There are 24 elite individual women hitting the competition floor:

Aimee Cringle (UK)

Alexandra Bulic (AUS) 

Alys Scott (NZ)

Bec Glenister (AUS)

Brittany Weiss (USA)

Chelsea Lane (AUS)

Christina Livaditakis (ZI)

Ella Price (NZ)

Emily Clements (AUS)

Emily De Rooy(AUS) 

Georgia Farrow (AUS)

Erika Palasty (AUS)

Isabella Andueza (AUS)

Jess Green (AUS)

Jesse Ward (AUS)

Jessi Smith (USA)

Kaitlyn Matuschka (AUS)

Laura Clifton (NZ)

Laura Yardley (AUS)

Linda Keesman (NL) 

Maisie Wilde (AUS)

Marnie Sykes (NZ) 

Mekenzie Woodhouse (AUS)

Samantha Pugh (USA)

Reigning back-to-back winner Madeline “Maddie” Sturt is missing from the lineup, as is Oceania Semifinal winner Grace Walton, who had previously been listed on Instagram as a participant in the individual competition. 

Out of the 24 athletes listed, six have Games experience either as an individual or on a team.

Who to Watch

Emily De Rooy 

De Rooy is part of the reigning Fittest Team on Earth – Raw Iron CrossFit Mayhem Thunder – along with Kara Saunders, Khan Porter, and James Newbury.

The DUC will be De Rooy’s first individual competition since the DUC last year. 

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Aimee Cringle 

The 2024 Games rookie is making the journey from the Isle of Man, UK, to compete in her second DUC. 

As a former track and field athlete, Cringle will be able to showcase her running skills in two of the seven events. 

Linda Keesman 

Another European making the journey to Australia is Linda Keesman, who will compete at her first DUC. 

Heralding from the Netherlands, Keesman punched her first ticket to the Games this year. She loves a heavy barbell and has been working hard on her gymnastics skills. 

Dark Horse Picks

Jessi Smith

The CrossFit Invictus athlete is returning to the DUC, but this time as an individual. 

Last year, Smith and her California Gurls teammates Dani Speegle and Emily Rethwill won the Elite Team division. 

Marnie Sykes 

The New Zealander has carved her niche as a team specialist, competing on a team at the Games for four consecutive years. 

This year, Sykes came second in the team division at the Games as part of the CrossFit Torian Mayhem crew. Sykes is our dark horse pick for a top-three finish this year. 

Elite Pairs Women — 2024 Down Under Championship

It looks like we’re going to have an epic battle in the Women’s Elite Pairs division. 

There’s a mix of youth and experience in this field, with 24 pairs listed on the DUC website: 

129: Abby Ashton and Raquel Jade

2 Nuggs: Taylah Baker and Maddy McArthur

Aus-Merican Gals: Lisa Burrill and Jordan Malm 

Chirny Girls: Kathryn Micheli and Tanikka Pignataro

Chocolate Alley: Georgia Welsman and Abby Carvell

CrossFit Karuna: Katreena Drake and Mel Halstead

Girls on Fire: Emily Atton and Caitlin Danyi 

Grit Girls in the Gong: Kirra Csurhes and Nikki Kramer

Horsham CrossFit Twins: Maddie Iredell and Ema Iredell

Injustice Transition: Stephanie Papini and Heidi Hughes

Loose Skids: Josie Winfield and Nicole Crouch 

Mayhem at the WARC: Daisy McDonald and Hayley Adams 

Muscle Mummies: Meg Davis and Emily Fenech 

Nik & Fizz: Fenella Richards and Nikita Bryant

No Biceps No Problem: Rach Toomua Faumuina and Simone Arthur 

Script Fitz: Sarah Corrigan and Courtney Fitzharris 

Starr Strength E&L: Lissandra Larobina and Emilie Hogan

Strong Gals: Emily Julian and Gabriella Napper

The Hamster & the Lioness: Charlotte Baldwin and Julia Hannaford 

Timebirds: Clara Allemand and Maddy Huggins

Tribe Black: Cherie Myers and Gia Davis

Tribe HQ x Messina: Erin Felton and Amy Alessi

True: Christee Hollard and Briony Challis

YTG: Amber Koen and Olivia Kelly

Who to Watch

True: Christee Hollard and Briony Challis 

This team is a favorite for a podium finish in the pairs division. 

Both Hollard and Challis have Games experience, and Hollard was on the CrossFit Torian Mayhem team that finished second at the Games this year. This experienced duo finished second at DUC in the team division last year.

Mayhem at the WARC: Daisy McDonald and Hayley Adams

On the heels of her rookie year at the Games, Daisy McDonald is teaming up with her training partner, the Australian Hayley Adams, in the Elite Women’s Pairs division. 

McDonald loves all things gymnastics, and Adams doesn’t shy away from a gutsy workout. There’s a good chance these two young guns will be standing on the podium at the end of the weekend.

The Hamster & The Lioness: Julia Hannaford and Charlotte Baldwin 

Aussie cowgirl Julia Hannaford is teaming up with up-and-coming athlete Charlotte Baldwin, who made her Torian Pro debut this year. 

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Hannaford is known for her epic weightlifting abilities, and both athletes are strong in inverted gymnastics. We’ll soon find out if these athletes have been working on their running in the offseason. 

Darkhorse

Strong Gals: Emily Julian and Gabriella Napper

We believe that Emily Julian and teen athlete Gabriella Napper have the potential to shake up the leaderboard in the Women’s Elite Pairs division. 

Both Julian and Napper competed on teams at the Oceania Semifinal. Strong Gals put up some impressive scores in the online qualifier for DUC, and we’re excited to see what they can do when they hit the competition floor. 

Elite Individual Men — 2024 Down Under Championship

Here’s the roster of 24 athletes who’ll be hitting the competition floor in the Elite Individual Men division:

Adam Mansy (AUS) 

Álvaro Teixeira (BR)

Andrew Sambell (AUS)

Ben Fowler (NZ) 

Brandyn Gaskill (AUS) 

Conor McEleny (AUS) 

Dante Karangaroa (NZ)

Darcy Hancock (AUS)

Ethan van der Velden (AUS)

George Rhigas (AUS) 

Gonzalo Del Rio (ES)

Isaac Newman (AUS)

Jack Fleming (AUS)

Jack Monaghan (AUS)

Jack Sweeney (AUS)

Jack Verman (AUS)

James Hargreaves (AUS) 

Luke Fowler (NZ) 

Morteza Sedaghat (IR)

Peter Ellis (AUS) 

Riley Martin (NZ)

Royce Dunne (AUS)

Ryan Mulvaney (AUS)

Thor Hajnal (NZ)

There’s plenty of experience on this list, including six Games athletes. 

Teen athlete Brandyn Gaskill will be making his first appearance in the Elite Men’s division. 

Who to Watch

Royce Dunne 

Royce Dunne is returning to the Down Under Championship, but this time as an individual competition. 

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With six years of Games experience under his belt, including a second-place finish in the team division this year, Dunne is a hot favorite for a podium finish. Last year, he won the DUC Elite team division with teammates Jay Crouch and Bayley Martin. 

Peter Ellis

The young gun from Australia is returning to defend his DUC 2023 title after a career-best season in 2024, which culminated in his first Games appearance in August. 

This Games rookie is not afraid to do the work to get the job done. 

Ben Fowler 

Ben Fowler topped the leaderboard for the DUC qualifiers with a dominant performance in the online format. 

This New Zealander has Games experience, having competed on CrossFit Selwyn in the team division in 2022. 

Dark Horse

Issac Newman 

Newman finished second in the online DUC qualifiers. 

He also had an impressive sixth-place finish at the Oceania Semifinal earlier this year, and we believe that Newman could be a dark horse for a podium spot.

Elite Pairs Men — 2024 Down Under Championship

We’re in for an exciting battle in the Men’s Elite Pairs, with a depth of field that is second to none. 

The list below is headlined by a gang of Games athletes, including Ricky Garard, James Newbury, Khan Port, and Aniol Ekai, among others. Full leaderboard here.

+64 Army Mahi Dawgs: Kendall Peterson and Hauwai McGahan

1 2 9: James Keen and Nick Luksich

All Gravy Baby: Bradley Spreadborough and David Mayall

BaiFit Black: Bailey O’Brien and Marty Strong

Carv: Mitchell Case and Zeke Grove 

Change: Khan Porter and James Newbury

CrossFit Currumbin: Harry Calverley and Tom Marais 

Flax Mahi Dawgs: Aidan Te Wake-Hope and Bryce Shearer

Frog Wannabes 2.0: Dylan Chow and Josh Marple

Gorilla: Zac Thomas and Jake Soles 

International BILS: Asier Moreno and Rada Sovljanski

Jakes at Work: Jake Douglas and Jake Marconi 

Logan’s Finest: Alex Herewini and Jordy Wilson

Men of Culture: Shane Ormerod and Patrick Clapin 

Team Ape: Ricky Garard and Aniol Ekai

Team Brute Strength: Daniel Faumuina and Cameron Gray

Team Mojo: Moses Petelo and Jonathan Dunlop

Team Remi/Raw Iron: Nathan Corden and Jadyn Whakatope-Stewart

Team Sugartits: Morten Almaas and Dylan Roberts

The Baseline Bros: Kieren Power and Jordan Bailey

Tob&Ben: Ben Hickson and Toby Crouch

Training Culture: Calum Clements and Pablo Cazalis

Woodham and Lees: ​​Max Lees and Thomas Woodham

Your Mum’s Ex-Boyfriends: Brodie Scott and Thomas Bartley

Who to Watch

Team Ape

We predict a strong performance from Ricky Garard and his teammate Aniol Ekai, who competed in his rookie Games season in Fort Worth earlier this year. 

With experience and determination on their side, Team Ape will be hard to beat.

Gorilla

Zac Thomas is making his return to competition after his cardiac episode in the first event of the Oceania Semifinal earlier this year. Jake Soles has replaced Luke de Jonge as Thomas’ teammate. 

These Wollongong locals have endurance and grit on their side. Can they bring it all together for a podium finish this year?

Change

Aussie CrossFit veterans Khan Porter and James Newbury are teaming up once again in the Men’s Elite Pairs division. 

Can these living legends continue their winning form after taking home the Fittest on Earth title as part of the CrossFit Mayhem Thunder team in August this year?

Dark Horse 

Carv

Our dark horse pick goes to Mitchell Case and Zeke Grove from team Carv. 

These Aussie athletes competed on a team together at the Oceania Semifinal earlier this year. Grove’s four years of Games experience could help steer Carv into a podium spot by the end of the weekend.  

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Featured image: @downunderchampionship / Instagram

The post 2024 Down Under Championship Preview: Full Rosters and Athletes To Watch appeared first on BarBend.

For the first several decades of bodybuilding’s existence, competitions existed mainly for men, with contests laden in the male honorific — Mr. Universe, Mr. America, and, of course, Mr. Olympia. Fifteen years after the Mr. O debuted in 1965, Ms. Olympia gave women interested in physique-building a stage to compete.

Then, in 2014, the Olympia canceled the Ms. Olympia due to waning fan interest and falling ticket sales. For six years, women interested in competitive bodybuilding had to find other shows to compete in, such as the now-popular Rising Phoenix competition. But then, in 2020, Ms. Olympia made a comeback, partly thanks to the efforts of promoter Jake Wood (who also founded the Rising Phoenix.)

Fast forward to 2021, and there are now six female divisions at the Olympia — Bikini, Figure, Fitness, Wellness, Women’s Physique, and Women’s Bodybuilding. Combined, the winners of the five competitive women’s divisions at the 2020 Olympia (Wellness makes its Olympia debut in 2021) earned $240,000.

Unlike the Mr. Olympia, where there are distinct dynasties involving one champion reigning for several years, the Ms. Olympia has changed hands more often. Here’s a look back at the history of this prestigious competition.

1980-1983 — Three Champions in Four Years

1980 represented a new decade and an exciting time for bodybuilding. Arnold Schwarzenegger came out of retirement to win the Mr. Olympia that year in Sydney, Australia. 1980 was also when the first Ms. Olympia was held in Philadelphia, PA, and Rachel McLish made history as the first winner of this title. She is also the first two-time champion. After losing the title in 1981 to Ritva Elomma, she reclaimed it in 1982.

The following year, the trend in the sport became “bigger is better.” McLish bowed out, and Carla Dunlap would seize the throne. 

1980, Sheraton Hotel, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

First — Rachel McLish

Second — Auby Paulick

Third — Lynn Conkwright

1981, Sheraton Hotel, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

First — Ritva Elomaa

Second — Rachel McLish

Third — Lynn Conkwright

1982, Atlantic City, New Jersey (Venue Unknown)

First — Rachel McLish

Second — Carla Dunlap

Third — Kike Elomaa

1983, Warminster, Pennsylvania (Venue Unknown)

First — Carla Dunlap

Second — Candy Csencsits

Third — Inger Zetterqvist

1984-1989 — The Everson Era

1984 would see another shift in women’s bodybuilding, but the competitors at the time weren’t aware of what was coming. Dunlap was defending her title, and McLish returned with hopes of being the first three-time winner. Unfortunately for both of them, a new contender established dominance.

Cory Everson defeated McLish (who got second place) and Dunlap (who got fourth) to win the title in her first appearance. She then went on to close out the 1980’s atop the mountain.

Everson’s reign saw her take the sport to new heights and enter the cultural mainstream, being featured on numerous TV shows and even the movie Double Impact starring Jean-Claude Van Damme. She retired following her sixth title in 1989.

1984, Place des Arts, Montreal, Quebec, Canada

First — Cory Everson

Second — Rachel McLish

Third — Mary Roberts

1985, Felt Forum, New York City, New York

First — Cory Everson

Second — Mary Roberts

Third — Diana Dennis

1986, Felt Forum, New York City, New York

First — Cory Everson

Second — Clare Furr

Third — Ellen Van Maris

1987, New York City, New York (Venue Unknown)

First — Cory Everson

Second — Ellen Van Maris

Third — Bev Francis

1988, New York City, New York (Venue Unknown)

First — Cory Everson

Second — Anja Langer

Third — Bev Francis

1989, New York City, New York (Venue Unknown)

First — Cory Everson

Second — Sandy Riddell

Third — Bev Francis

1990-1995 — Lenda Murray Ushers in the ’90s

After Everson retired, a new champion in a new decade was imminent. The question wasn’t if, but who?

Many fans expected the popular powerlifter-turned bodybuilder Bev Francis to seize the moment, but Lenda Murray won Ms. Olympia in the Big Apple. She displayed more muscle than her predecessors, and her posing was second to none.

Fans had hoped for the title to change hands as it did when the Ms. O was first established, but Murray kept a tight grip on the championship for the next six years, tying Everson’s record for the most wins.

1990, Beacon Theatre, New York City, New York

First — Lenda Murray

Second — Bev Francis

Third — Anja Schreiner

1991, Shrine Auditorium, Los Angeles, California

First — Lenda Murray

Second — Bev Francis

Third — Laura Creavalle

1992, Arie Crown Theater, Chicago, Illinois

First — Lenda Murray

Second — Laura Creavalle

Third — Shelley Beattie

1993, Beacon Theatre, New York City, New York

First — Lenda Murray

Second — Denise Rutkowski

Third — Laura Creavalle

1994, Atlanta, Georgia (Venue Unknown)

First — Lenda Murray

Second — Laura Creavalle

Third — Debbie Muggli

1995, Atlanta, Georgia (Venue Unknown)

First — Lenda Murray

Second — Kim Chizevsky

Third — Natalia Murnikoviene

1996-1999 — Chizevsky Clinches the Title

While Murray matched Everson’s number of years as champion, she wasn’t able to surpass it (at least not yet).

Following a runner-up effort in 1995, Kim Chizevsky defeated Murray in 1996 to become the new Ms. Olympia. Murray faced her in a rematch the following year, but the freshly minted champ retained her title thanks to her symmetry and definition.

Chizevsky, with help from her coach/husband Chad Nicholls, held the title for two more years before retiring in 1999. She would compete in the Fitness division two years later, from 2001 to 2002. She also took part in the new Figure division for two years following Fitness.

1996, Chicago, Illinois (Venue Unknown)

First — Kim Chizevsky

Second — Lenda Murray

Third — Natalia Murnikoviene

1997, Beacon Theatre, New York City, New York

First — Kim Chizevsky

Second — Lenda Murray

Third — Yolanda Hughes

1998, Prague, Czech Republic (Venue Unknown)

First — Kim Chizevsky

Second — Yolanda Hughes

Third — Vickie Gates

1999, Secaucus, New Jersey, (Venue Unknown)

First — Kim Chizevsky

Second — Iris Kyle

Third — Lesa Lewis

2000 — Two Ms. Olympia Titles

Two significant changes took place at this historic edition of this contest. First, Ms. Olympia was to be held in tandem with Mr. Olympia. Second, two champions were to be crowned.

The Ms. Olympia was split into two divisions — heavyweight (over 135 pounds) and lightweight (up to 135 pounds). The two winners this year did not face each other to determine an overall champion. 2000 is the only year that there are two Ms. Olympia’s.

Heavyweight

First — Valentina Chepiga

Second — Vickie Gates

Third — Lesa Lewis

Lightweight

First — Andrulla Blanchette 

Second — Brenda Raganot

Third — Renee Casella

2001 — The Arrival of Iris Kyle

This year, the Ms. Olympia maintained the two divisions, but the winners faced off to determine an overall champion. Fans in Mandalay Bay saw a magnificent showdown between Iris Kyle and Juliette Bergmann. Kyle’s combination of size and definition was too much for the lightweight winner to overcome, and Kyle won her first (but not last) Ms. Olympia title.

2001, Mandalay Bay Arena, Las Vegas, Nevada

Heavyweight

First — Iris Kyle

Second — Vickie Gates

Third — Yaxeni Oriquen-Garcia

Lightweight

First — Juliette Bergmann*

Second — Andrulla Blanchette

Third — Dayana Cadeau

*Overall Ms. Olympia Winner

2002-2004 — Murray is Back!

After five years away from competition, Murray felt she had unfinished business. She wanted her legacy to show she was the winningest bodybuilder of all time. Murray returned to the stage in 2002 and defeated both Kyle in the heavyweight division and lightweight winner Bergmann to finally win her seventh championship.

Murray’s eighth win in 2003 tied her with Lee Haney as the only eight-time Olympia winners male or female (Ronnie Coleman had yet to complete his reign.) 

Unfortunately for Murray, Kyle would get the last laugh. One of the greatest rivalries in bodybuilding history concluded with Kyle taking the title from Murray in 2004 by beating her in the heavyweight division and holding off lightweight winner Dayana Cadeau. After 2004, Murray retired from competitive bodybuilding.

2002, Mandalay Bay Arena, Las Vegas, Nevada

Heavyweight

First — Lenda Murray*

Second — Iris Kyle

Third — Vickie Gates

Lightweight

First — Juliette Bergmann

Second — Valentina Chepiga

Third — Fannie Barrios

*Overall Ms. Olympia Winner

2003, Mandalay Bay Arena, Las Vegas, Nevada

Heavyweight

First — Lenda Murray*

Second — Iris Kyle

Third — Yaxeni Oriquen-Garcia

Lightweight

First — Juliette Bergmann

Second — Dayana Cadeau

Third — Denise Masino

*Overall Ms. Olympia Winner

2004, Mandalay Bay Arena, Las Vegas, Nevada

Heavyweight

First — Iris Kyle*

Second — Lenda Murray

Third — Yaxeni Oriquen-Garcia

Lightweight

First — Dayana Cadeau

Second — Denise Masino

Third — Marja Lehtonen

*Overall Ms. Olympia

2005 — Back to the Single Category Ms. Olympia

After five years of the contest featuring two divisions, Ms. Olympia returned to a single group of competitors. Kyle was the favorite to retain the title, but two-time third-place winner Yaxeni Oriquen-Garcia showed up in the best shape of her life and managed to knock the defending champ down a step on the podium. 

2005, Orleans Arena, Las Vegas, Nevada

First — Yaxeni Oriquen-Garcia

Second — Iris Kyle

Third — Dayana Cadeau

2006-2014 — Kyle Makes History and the Ms. Olympia Ends

Kyle returned in 2006 to win her second Ms. Olympia title. She then made history twice over. She would win every year for the next nine years, setting the mark for the most wins in a row. She also retired in 2014 with 10 Olympia titles, the most out of any bodybuilder in any division.

Following her retirement, the IFBB Pro League discontinued the Ms. Olympia due to a lack of interest from fans and decreasing number of athletes participating. It would be six years before the women of bodybuilding would have another Olympia

2006, Orleans Arena, Las Vegas, Nevada

First — Iris Kyle

Second — Dayana Cadeau

Third — Annie Rivieccio

2007, Orleans Arena, Las Vegas, Nevada

First — Iris Kyle

Second — Dayana Cadeau

Third — Yaxeni Oriquen-Garcia

2008, Orleans Arena, Las Vegas, Nevada

First — Iris Kyle

Second — Betty Viana-Adkins

Third — Yaxeni Oriquen-Garcia

2009, Orleans Arena, Las Vegas, Nevada

First — Iris Kyle

Second — Heather Armbrust

Third — Debi Laszewski

2010, Orleans Arena, Las Vegas, Nevada

First — Iris Kyle

Second — Yaxeni Oriquen-Garcia

Third — Debi Laszewski

2011, Orleans Arena, Las Vegas, Nevada

First — Iris Kyle

Second — Yaxeni Oriquen-Garcia

Third — Brigita Brezovac

2012, Orleans Arena, Las Vegas, Nevada

First — Iris Kyle

Second — Debi Laszewski

Third — Yaxeni Oriquen-Garcia

2013, Orleans Arena, Las Vegas, Nevada

First — Iris Kyle

Second — Alina Popa

Third — Debi Laszewski

2014, Orleans Arena, Las Vegas, Nevada

First — Iris Kyle

Second — Alina Popa

Third — Debi Laszewski

2020-2024 — Shaw’s Reign

For most of the year, it was unclear if the Olympia would take place at all due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Eventually, the Olympia took place in December of 2020. The event also had to be moved from Las Vegas, NV to Orlando, FL in the final month of preparation.

The good news is that the Ms. Olympia contest returned as a part of the biggest weekend in bodybuilding. Rising Phoenix World Champion Andrea Shaw and Kyle were expected to go head-to-head in a battle of past versus future.

Two days before the contest, however, Kyle became ill and was not able to compete. Shaw would emerge from the lineup as the new Ms. Olympia winner, introducing a new generation of fans Women’s Bodybuilding. 

Shaw has since defended her title four subsequent times against various challengers:

2020, Orange County Convention Center, Orlando, Florida

First — Andrea Shaw

Second — Margie Martin

Third — Helle Trevino

2021, Orange County Convention Center, Orlando, Florida

First — Andrea Shaw

Second — Helle Trevino

Third — Margie Martin

2022, Zappos Theater, Las Vegas, NV

First — Andrea Shaw

Second — Angela Yeo

Third — Helle Trevino

2023, Orange County Convention Center, Orlando, FL

First — Andrea Shaw

Second — Angela Yeo

Third — Alcione Barreto

2024, Resorts World Theater, Las Vegas, NV

First — Andrea Shaw

Second — Angela Yeo

Third — Ashley Lynette Jones

Featured Image: @rachelmclish, @iriskyle, @themsolympia on Instagram

The post Every Winner of the Ms. Olympia Bodybuilding Competition appeared first on BarBend.

The 2024 Strongman Champions League (SCL) Cyprus contest occurred in Limassol, Cyprus on Oct. 12, 2024. The contest featured 12 athletes representing 11 countries competing through five events: Truck Pull, Front Hold, Loading Race, Log Lift, and Atlas Stones.

Adam Roszkowski of Poland scored 46.5 of a possible 60 points to stand atop the podium. Péter Juhász of Hungary took silver, and UK’s Kane Francis claimed bronze.

2024 Strongman Champions League Cyprus Results

Adam Roszkowski (POL) — 46.5 points

Péter Juhász (HUN) — 42.5 points

Kane Francis (UK) — 41.5 points

Brian Kichton (USA) — 41 points

Andrea Invernizzi (ITA) — 39.5 points

George Sulaiman (NED) — 37 points

Ervin Toots (EST) — 30 points

Kelvin de Ruiter (NED) — 27.5 points

Tuomas Lindroos (FIN) — 26 points

Juan Ferrer (ESP) — 20.5 points

Hristo Muskov (BUL) — 18 points

Ilya Khazov (CYP) — Nine points

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2024 Strongman Champions League Cyprus Event Results

Below are the results for each of the five events contested in Limassol:

Truck Pull

Each strongman had 75 seconds to pull the truck 20 meters as fast as possible.

Kelvin de Ruiter — 26.22 seconds

Kane Francis — 27.53 seconds

Tuomas Lindroos — 28.16 seconds

Ervin Toots — 29.37 seconds

Péter Juhász — 29.5 seconds

Adam Roszkowski — 29.62 seconds

Juan Ferrer — 29.93 seconds

Andrea Invernizzi — 29.96 seconds

Brian Kichton — 30.34 seconds

George Sulaiman — 32.87 seconds

Hristo Muskov — 36.93 seconds

Ilya Khazov — no pull

Front Hold

Athletes established their max front hold with 25 kilograms.

Andrea Invernizzi — 56.13 seconds

Hristo Muskov — 54.93 seconds

Adam Roszkowski — 51.22 seconds

Ilya Khazov — 50.47 seconds

Brian Kichton — 47 seconds

George Sulaiman — 44.75 seconds

Péter Juhász — 42.81 seconds

Juan Ferrer — 40.68 seconds

Tuomas Lindroos — 38.4 seconds

Kelvin de Ruiter — 36.9 seconds

Ervin Toots — 36.75 seconds

Kane Francis — 33.66 seconds

Loading Race

The loading race comprised three implements weighing 120, 140, and 160 kilograms with a 75-second time cap.

Adam Roszkowski — Three in 20.68 seconds

Péter Juhász — Three in 21.81 seconds

George Sulaiman — Three in 21.94 seconds

Kane Francis — Three in 23.84 seconds

Kelvin de Ruiter — Three in 24.55 seconds

Brian Kichton — Three in 25.18 seconds

Ervin Toots — Three in 28.71 seconds

Hristo Muskov — Three in 30 seconds

Andrea Invernizzi — Three in 36.25 seconds

Tuomas Lindroos — Two in 75 seconds

Juan Ferrer — Two in 75 seconds

Ilya Khazov — withdrew

Log Lift

Each strongman lifted 140 kilograms for reps within the 60-second time limit.

Brian Kichton — Seven reps

Adam Roszkowski — Six reps (T-second)

Andrea Invernizzi — Six reps (T-second)

Péter Juhász — Five reps (T-fourth)

Kane Francis — Five reps (T-fourth)

Ervin Toots — Four reps

George Sulaiman — Three reps

Kelvin de Ruiter — Two reps (T-eighth)

Tuomas Lindroos — Two reps (T-eighth)

Juan Ferrer — One rep

Hristo Muskov — no lift

Ilya Khazov — withdrew

Atlas Stones

The five stones weighed 130 to 200 kilograms. Athletes had 75 seconds to load them as fast as possible.

Kane Francis — Five in 21.84 seconds

George Sulaiman — Five in 26.68 seconds

Brian Kichton — Five in 31.36 seconds

Péter Juhász — Four in 20.06 seconds

Andrea Invernizzi — Four in 26.12 seconds

Adam Roszkowski — Four in 27.66 seconds

Ervin Toots — Four in 29.95 seconds

Tuomas Lindroos — Four in 55.54 seconds

Juan Ferrer — Three in 64.11 seconds

Kelvin de Ruiter — withdrew

Hristo Muskov — withdrew

Ilya Khazov — withdrew

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The post 2024 Strongman Champions League Cyprus Results appeared first on BarBend.

Before the 2024 Classic Physique Olympia had even wrapped, Wesley Vissers had thrown in the towel — sort of. Vissers, widely expected to be a real damage-dealer at this year’s “O,” found himself out of the top 5 when the dust finally settled on the evening of Oct. 12, 2024. 

Hours before the Classic Physique Olympia Finals, Vissers took to social media to speak on his impressions of the pre-judging round that had occurred the same morning.

“I did really want to get compared with the top guys this time, but didn’t get my shot,” he said

Vissers, like his contemporaries in bodybuilding’s most popular new division, talked a big game at the Olympia press conference a day before pre-judging. The 2024 Arnold Classic winner would find himself in 8th place by the end of the event weekend in Las Vegas, NV. 

Wesley Vissers on the Classic Physique Olympia: “I Didn’t Get My Shot”

In case you missed it, Chris Bumstead, the fan-favorite moustached muscle man won his sixth Classic Physique Olympia title and announced his retirement on stage after defeating surprise runner-up Mike Sommerfeld. 

Nobody saw Sommerfeld coming this year — since his dominant victory at the Arnold, Vissers was expected to hold Bumstead’s feet to the flames in Las Vegas. He said as much just a day before pre-judging during the Olympia press conference: 

“I’m going to give him the toughest battle he’s ever faced,” said Vissers. 

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In the weeks leading up to the Classic Physique Olympia, Vissers made rounds on various podcasts with similar statements. Prior to the big day, the Dutchman was confident he’d beat Bumstead outright:

“I really do think it’s possible [to beat Bumstead,]” Vissers said, smiling, on Sep. 15.

Leading up to the show, Vissers had plenty of momentum. He’d won the Arnold Classic and Arnold Classic UK back to back and, at 6’2”, the Dutch Giant can contend with Bumstead in the stature department — but, based on the scorecards, not much else. 

Bumstead scored 6 points overall, a slight degradation from his usually-impeccable 5-point result.

Sommerfeld technically gave Bumstead his toughest fight in years; he finished with 9 points. Ramon Dino, who got second in 2022 and 2023, finished with 10 points both times. 

Urs Kalecinski, the Miracle Bear, matched his 2023 placing to round out the top 3. 

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Like Dino, who got fourth, Vissers backslid at the 2024 Classic Physique Olympia, falling from seventh and 35 points last year to eighth and 39 this go-round. Whether firmer judging criteria or a misguided contest prep from Vissers’ team is to blame is unclear. At the Arnold, in March, Vissers won with a seven-point card. 

He’s kept in good spirits since the Classic Physique Olympia pre-judging wrapped. “We can bounce back from anything, and we will,” Vissers added before showing plenty of sportsmanship during the Finals on the evening of Oct. 12. 

Vissers may have missed the mark, but the Arnold Classic will have an all-time high prize pool in 2025, nevermind Bumstead’s stepping down from the throne. Next year, it’s a whole new ball game for Classic Physique.

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