The 2024 CrossFit Service Open Highlights — Cale Layman Impresses

As the community puts a bow on the 2024 CrossFit Open, there are countless performances to celebrate. 

Talented Games-level athletes all logged terrific competitions, but this year also saw the return of the Service Open, which put the call out to all service members to determine the fittest in certain professions

[Related: 15 Exercises for CrossFit Beginners to Learn to Build a Strong Base]

What Is the CrossFit Service Open?

The CrossFit Games outlines the goal of the 2024 Service Open as an opportunity to “celebrate those who selflessly serve their communities daily, showcasing how these individuals use fitness to succeed in their professions.” 

It also provides a fantastic opportunity for athletes in the same profession to battle each other for bragging rights. (After all, Crossfitters always love a competition.)

Since 2017, we have seen different versions of the Service Open in CrossFit, but this year, there will be a second stage of the competition to provide the opportunity for athletes to be called the fittest in their profession.

The second stage of the Service Open is the Service Cup: Built to Serve, a virtual competition to determine the fittest in each profession. 

This contest takes place from June 6-13.

Qualifying athletes will receive an invitation with instructions on how to register soon. 

The 2024 Service Open was available to athletes in these professions:

Affiliate Owner 

CrossFit Trainer 

EMS Responder 

Medical Professional

Educator

Military Veteran

Active Duty Military

Law Enforcement

Firefighter

First Responder

College Student

Here is a breakdown of the top performers in the main categories for men and women:

[Related: 2024 CrossFit Open Age Group Results]

What Does It Mean?

One of the most interesting finishes belongs to Cale Layman, whose name appears on the winners list twice, once as an active-duty military member and once as a college student. 

Layman placed seventh on the (still unofficial) 2024 Open leaderboard, with two finishes inside the top 20. It is only his second year participating in the Open; he finished 4774th in the world in 2023.

Layman is from Williston, VT, and trains at Black and Gold CrossFit in West Point, NY. This is a club at the United States Military Academy, where Layman is a student. 

In January, Layman competed with team Black and Gold FITT in the Intermediate Men’s division in Miami for Wodapalooza. A relatively new name in the CrossFit space, Layman is someone to keep an eye on moving forward after his strong Open performance.

Some other noteworthy performances include:

Addison Desrosier — 20th in 24.1

Guillaume Briant — Sixth in 24.3

Chandler Smith – 12th in 24.1

Nicole Heer — 31st in 24.2

Samuel Paquin — Currently 33rd worldwide

Anikha Greer — Currently third worldwide, third in 24.3

More CrossFit Content

Check out these stories from the Morning Chalk Up:

You Signed Up for HYROX — Now What? Here Are 5 Tips to Follow

Festivus Games to Host First Adaptive-Only Competition in April

Our “7 Questions Leading Up to the 2024 CrossFit Open,” Answered

Featured image: @cale_layman_ / Instagram

The post The 2024 CrossFit Service Open Highlights — Cale Layman Impresses appeared first on BarBend.

Score Top Fitness Gear: Up to 40% off on Amazon’s Big Spring Sale (Ends Today)

The Amazon Big Spring Sale is an opportune time to invest in high-quality fitness gear as it offers a wide selection of items at discounted prices.

When considering fitness products, options range from equipment for cardio workouts, such as treadmills and stationary bikes, to strength training gear like adjustable dumbbells and resistance bands.

Yoleo Strength Coach

We believe this adjustable bench is a solid choice for those looking to enhance their home gym without breaking the bank.

Pros

Versatile design with 84 adjustment options for a variety of exercises

Compact and portable, easy to fold and store in small spaces

High weight capacity of 660 pounds supporting strenuous workouts

Cons

May not be suitable for taller individuals

Smaller footprint could affect stability for some users

Assembly required, which could be a slight inconvenience

Its heavy-duty steel frame and double-triangle structure promise durability and stability during intense sessions. The multiple adjustment capabilities allow for a wide range of exercises, honing in on different muscle groups without the need for additional equipment.

Space-saving features are always a plus in home gym setups, and this bench scores high on portability. When folded, it’s compact enough to slide into a closet or tuck away under a bed. The high-density foam padding on the backrest and seat offers the right balance of comfort and support, enabling longer, more productive workouts.

MERACH R14 Water Rower

We believe this water rowing machine is a solid choice for those seeking a durable and immersive rowing experience at home.

Pros

Sustainable high-quality wood construction

Realistic rowing simulation with immersive AR mode

Easy to assemble and space-saving design

Cons

Expensive compared to basic models

Tablets and phones not included for AR features

May be too complex for beginners

This rowing machine offers a sturdy build using premium hardwood, accommodating users up to 330 pounds. Its water resistance system provides a natural and smooth rowing experience.

The immersive augmented reality app sets this machine apart, offering an engaging and interactive rowing journey. This advancement in fitness technology enhances the workout experience beyond the typical static routines, making exercise sessions more enjoyable and effective.

Echelon EX-15 Bike

If you’re seeking an indoor exercise bike that blends connectivity and compactness, the Echelon EX-15 could be your match.

Pros

Comes with a free 30-day Echelon Premier Membership for diverse fitness classes

Features 32 resistance levels for varied workout intensity

Designed with a small footprint, ideal for limited spaces

Cons

High-intensity users may find the maximum resistance insufficient

Requires an ongoing membership fee after the initial 30-day trial for full content access

Lacks advanced features such as a built-in screen

Transform your home into a personal fitness studio with the Echelon EX-15 Bike. It’s not just about pedaling; it’s about immersing yourself in a community and variety of workouts, from HIIT to yoga, designed for all fitness levels. With the included 30-day trial, you can explore the full spectrum of classes and find what inspires you.

The sleek design of the Echelon EX-15 means it slides seamlessly into your living space without dominating it. You’ll appreciate its thoughtful features, like an extra cushioned seat and customizable toe cages, ensuring comfort and stability throughout your ride. Compatible with the Echelon Fit App, it transforms your personal fitness with top-notch instructors and an expansive music library to keep you motivated.

CROSS101 Weighted Vest

We believe this weighted vest is a solid choice for anyone looking to add resistance to their workout routine efficiently.

Pros

Comes with weights included for immediate use

Features an adjustable fit for a range of body types

Boasts a durable nylon construction

Cons

May cause chafing during extensive use

Limited color options available

The camouflage pattern may not appeal to everyone

The CROSS101 Weighted Vest offers a straightforward way to escalate the intensity of various exercises. Whether it’s bodyweight routines or cardiovascular activities, the added resistance can significantly enhance the challenge and potentially lead to better fitness gains. The vest’s adjustability stands out as a beneficial feature, enabling users to tailor the fit to their individual body shape and workout intensity.

Durability is a concern for any fitness gear, and this vest’s nylon material aims to withstand regular use and the strain of added weights. The inclusion of shoulder pads in some options ensures comfort doesn’t take a backseat, even as you push your limits.

Elseluck Walking Treadmill

This compact under-desk walking treadmill could be a wise choice for those looking to integrate more movement into a sedentary lifestyle.

Pros

Offers a quiet operation suitable for office environments

Easy to store and move due to its lightweight and wheels

Comes with a remote for convenient speed adjustments

Cons

Limited to a walking or light jogging pace

May not be suitable for high-intensity workouts

Smaller deck length might not accommodate all users

The Elseluck Walking Treadmill caters to the modern need for multitasking, allowing us to remain active while engaging in sedentary activities like working. It is especially designed for small spaces, making it an ideal fitness tool for home offices. With convenience in mind, its ready-to-use design out of the box simplifies the setup process.

Durability and comfort go hand in hand with this product. The treadmill is sturdy enough to support daily use and has a robust build quality. The multiple shock absorption feature is a considerate addition, designed to lessen impact on the joints and enhance the comfort of your walk or jog.

CAP Barbell Olympic 7ft Bar

As fitness enthusiasts, we find this barbell to be a solid choice for home gym setups due to its versatility and construction quality.

Pros

Reasonable price for the build and quality

Medium-depth knurling provides secure grip

Rotating sleeves minimize pressure on forearms during lifts

Cons

Chrome finish may be less durable than other coatings

The bar is lighter than standard Olympic bars, affecting lifting experience

Some users have reported issues with shipping and handling

When considering expanding our home gym equipment, CAP’s Olympic 7ft Bar stands out due to its solid construction and the brand’s commitment to quality. Alloy steel and a tensile strength of 63,800 PSI make it a durable bet for long-term use.

In our strength training routine, grip is crucial. This bar’s knurled handle and rotating sleeves offer comfort and a hint of luxury in an otherwise strenuous workout environment. The versatility in exercise options ensures we can target multiple muscle groups with a single piece of equipment.

CAP Coated Hex Dumbbell

We recommend this dumbbell for anyone looking to enhance their home workouts with a durable, versatile weight.

Pros

Variety in weight options allows for progressive training

Hex shape prevents rolling and ensures safety

Ergonomic grip offers comfort and prevents slipping

Cons

Sold individually rather than in pairs which could be inconvenient

Rubber odor might be off-putting initially

Larger sizes may be bulky for some exercises

Adding a reliable dumbbell like the CAP Coated Hex Dumbbell to your fitness arsenal can radically transform your exercise routine. Its rubber coating not only increases durability but also protects your floors from damage, which is a common concern for home gym owners. Moreover, the hexagonal design is practical, effectively keeping the dumbbell in place between sets and exercises.

The utility of a dumbbell is unmatched in its ability to target various muscle groups. Whether you’re looking to strengthen your arms with bicep curls or engage your core with weighted lunges, this product’s versatility shines. The ergonomic handle ensures a secure grip, which is crucial for maintaining proper form during your workouts.

CAP Barbell Fitness Bench

We believe this CAP Barbell Fitness Bench is a versatile addition for those wanting to enhance their strength training at home without needing multiple pieces of equipment.

Pros

Promises versatility with 4-in-1 functionality.

Designed for durability with stringent testing standards.

Features comfortable padding for sustained workouts.

Cons

Some users report challenging assembly.

Potentially less stable for users approaching the weight limit.

Height may not cater to all user preferences, less ideal for taller individuals.

The CAP Barbell Fitness Bench encompasses not just your standard weightlifting needs but also allows for targeted hyperextension and core workouts, a boon for those lacking space for multiple devices. It’s a space saver and has the innovative design one expects for a multifunctional piece of fitness equipment – the ability to switch between a flat bench, an upper body bench, and a core/slant board adds immense value.

CAP Barbell Power Rack

We believe this power rack is a solid choice for those looking to enhance their home gym with sturdy and versatile equipment.

Pros

Features a high weight capacity for both the user and training load

Designed with safety and stability in mind

Offers convenient bar and weight storage

Cons

Assembly may be challenging for some

The product’s color may not suit all preferences

Customer service accessibility has been a concern for a few buyers

The CAP Barbell Power Rack caters to those who are serious about their strength training, with the capacity to handle significant load weights while also providing the safety features necessary for peace of mind during solo workouts.

Portability and the physical footprint are key considerations when choosing home gym equipment. While this CAP Barbell Power Rack offers the security of a fixed, stable unit, it does occupy a sizable area and may not be as easily moved as some would prefer. Ultimately, the additional stability provided by such a robust structure may outweigh the inflexibility of its placement for many fitness enthusiasts.

MERACH Magnetic Rower

We recommend this rower for those seeking a balance between functionality and quiet operation for home workouts.

Pros

Offers a range of free courses and compatibility with fitness apps for guided rowing experiences.

Quiet magnetic flywheel system minimizes disturbance to others during use.

Easy assembly and space-saving design make it suitable for home environments.

Cons

The foot pedals may not meet everyone’s standards for comfort.

Some users reported squeaking noises, which could indicate maintenance needs over time.

The MERACH app might not live up to expectations for some users.

With the MERACH Magnetic Rower, you have access to an array of free courses through the MERACH app, expanding your workout regimen without additional costs. Complemented by app compatibility, this device aims to enhance your indoor rowing by simulating outdoor conditions.

The machine’s quiet operation is a standout feature. Its magnetic flywheel system ensures that you can exercise vigorously without disrupting the peace in your home. That’s especially valuable for early risers, night owls, or anyone sharing their living space.

Its space-saving qualities are not to be overlooked either. You can efficiently relocate the rower with its built-in base wheels and store it compactly, making it an excellent choice for those with limited space.

PowerBlock Adjustable Dumbbells

If you’re looking to enhance your home workout routine with versatile equipment, these adjustable dumbbells could be a solid investment.

Pros

Space-saving design replaces multiple weights

Quick and easy weight adjustment system

Includes a 5-year warranty for peace of mind

Cons

Maximum weight of 24 lbs may not suit advanced lifters

May require a learning curve for new users to adjust weights swiftly

Rubber grip handle may not appeal to everyone

They offer a range of weight options from 3 to 24 pounds, neatly replacing the need for multiple sets of weights. They are a practical solution for those looking to save space and declutter their workout area. The convenience of a quick weight change mechanism allows for seamless transitions between exercises, optimizing your workout efficiency.

Budget-conscious fitness enthusiasts will find these dumbbells to be a cost-effective choice. Instead of purchasing numerous individual weights, investing in a single pair that covers a range of exercises and muscle groups can translate to significant savings. Additionally, the durability and inclusive 5-year warranty ensure they are a long-term investment in your fitness journey.

Yes4All 3-in-1 Plyo Box

We think the Yes4All 3-in-1 Plyo Box is a worthy addition to any fitness enthusiast’s home gym for its multipurpose design and durability.

Pros

Offers three different height settings for versatility in workouts

Comes with a smooth and safe design featuring sanded edges and handles

Simple assembly with included tools and pre-drilled holes

Cons

May be heavy and difficult to move for some users

Wood material might not be ideal for outdoor use if exposed to the elements

Possibly challenging for complete assembly novices despite being user-friendly

This piece of equipment is an asset for anyone looking to enhance their plyometric training. The Yes4All Plyo Box provides a solid and trustworthy platform with its ability to support up to 450 lbs. Its high-quality plywood construction with non-slip surface adds a layer of safety and allows for a diverse range of exercises, from box jumps to step-ups.

BalanceFrom PowerGainz 35lb Plates

We recommend these plates for their dual weight labeling and a durable enamel finish, suitable for any standard Olympic bar.

Pros

Versatile use with both Olympic and 2-inch dumbbell bars

Odor-free, corrosion-resistant enamel finish

Clearly labeled in both pounds and kilograms

Cons

Weight variations may occur, as commonly found in cast iron plates

Potential issues with packaging during shipping

One plate may arrive before the other, based on customer feedback

This set of BalanceFrom PowerGainz 35lb Olympic plates are made with alloy steel and come with a black, baked enamel coating. It’s a relief to know they won’t be contributing any unwanted odors to our workout space, and they should resist rusting and corrosion.

Working with standardized equipment makes strength training more streamlined. That’s why the dual LB and KG labeling on these plates is such a thoughtful feature. No matter if our routine uses metric or imperial systems, these weights have us covered, sparing us the mental math during workouts.

Finer Form Workout Bench

We recommend the Finer Form Workout Bench for its versatility and ability to suit the varying needs of home fitness enthusiasts.

Pros

High-grade steel construction with a 1,000 lb weight capacity ensures durability and stability.

Foldable and compact design is ideal for space-saving in small living areas.

Thick cushion pad provides support and comfort for a wide range of exercises.

Cons

Limited functionality being a flat only bench; not suitable for incline or decline exercises.

Some users may find the bench too low, impacting the range of motion for certain exercises.

Assembly required upon delivery may be a minor inconvenience for those not handy with tools.

The bench is characterized by its robust alloy steel frame that instills confidence whether you’re lifting light or loading it to its impressive 1,000 lb maximum. It’s tailor-made for those with limited room, folding away neatly to free up space when not sweating it out.

Comfort isn’t compromised with this bench. With a three-inch cushion pad, workouts are less a chore and more a treat for your posterior. It’s the support you need when pushing for that extra rep. This bench is not only a welcome mat for a variety of weights routines but also an invitation to focus on your core and leg exercises with one single equipment piece.

2024 Arnold Sports Festival UK Powerlifting Results

The Arnold Sports Festival returned to the UK after a one-year hiatus, and the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) was at the heart of it. The competition ran three days, beginning on March 15, 2024, and featured classic powerliftingequipped powerlifting, and equipped bench press.

2024 IPF Arnold Sports Festival UK Results

Each category had athletes from a range of weight classes. As such, the event was scored on GL points, a formula designed to compare the lifters across different bodyweight categories used by the IPF and its affiliates

Classic Powerlifting — Women

Agata Sitko (Poland) — 123.37 — 3,000 Euros

Bobbie Butters (GB) — 119.51 — 1,500 Euros

Joy Nnamani (GB) — 115.82 — 1,000 Euros

Emilie Martin (France) — 115.36

Lystus Ebosele (Ireland) — 113.97

Caitlin Baxter (GB) — 110.00

Alison Huet (France) — 109.15

Temitope Nuga (GB) — 108.78

Suzanne Daniel (GB) — 104.39

Aquinn Onuoha (GB) — 101.00

Leena Waitzmann (France) — 97.57

Margot Concolato (France) — 92.81

Marine Le Cléach (France) — 91.00

Charlotte MacPherson (GB) — 86.90

Zuzana Bitterová (Czechia) — 80.50

Classic Powerlifting — Men

Kjell Bakkelund (Norway) — 119.88 — 3,000 Euros

Ade Omisakin (GB) — 114.43 — 1,500 Euros

Abdul Majeed Sulayman (GB) — 112.77 — 1,000 Euros

Yanis Bouchou (France) — 112.57

Sanchez Dillon (GB) — 108.35

Gabriel Begue (France) — 106.65

Nathanial Massiah (GB) — 106.59

Adam Fulat (GB) — 106.33

Valentin Cure (France) — 105.75

Charly Mairesse (France) — 104.85

Fatat Toubal (Algeria) — 103.42

Eliam Tchandeu Noundou (France) — 102.82

Javic Dube (Nauru) — 100.29

Emmanuel Rousseau (France) — 95.99

Brando Tabaia (Nauru) — 89.46

William Pickering (GB) — DQ 

Equipped Powerlifting — Women

Sonja Stefanie Krüger (Germany) — 105.60 — 3,000 Euros

Zuzanna Kula (Poland) — 101.43 — 1,500 Euros

Holly Bryans (GB) — 99.74 — 1,000 Euros

Blanka Bartoňková (Czechia) — 98.86

Radostina Lulova (Bulgaria) — 97.72

Ellie Steel (GB) — 95.13

Danielle Reid-Clavelle (Canada) — 93.70

Christie Civetta (GB) — 90.54

Emma Goodwin (GB) — 88.10

Catherine Hoaresmith (GB) — 77.10

Kate Sweatman (GB) — DQ

Lauren Elder (GB) — DQ

Equipped Powerlifting — Men

Nicki Lentz (Denmark) — 107.15 — 3,000 Euros

Robert Palmer (GB) — 100.63 — 1,500 Euros

Asgeir Hoel (Norway) — 100.31 — 1,000 Euros

Jack Johnson (GB) — 97.08

Hugo Duarte (GB) — 90.24

Jordan Bollard (GB) — 88.92

Zurab Dzamukashvili (Georgia) — 87.02

James Taylor (GB) — 80.48

Ransilu Jayathilaka (Sri Lanka) — 69.89

[Related: Julius Maddox Performs 260-Kilogram (573-Pound) Seated Raw Shoulder Press in Training]

Equipped Bench Press — Women

Hildeborg Hugdal (Norway) — 112.35 — 2,000 Euros

Sonja Stefanie Krüger (Germany) — 112.26 — 1,000 Euros

Kate Sweatman (GB) — 103.66 — 500 Euros

Zuzanna Kula (Poland) — 102.61

Karolina Kolata (Poland) —90.61

Linda Kristensen (Norway) — 87.08

Jodie Cook (GB) — 83.72

Daria Ławniczak (Poland) — 82.57

Amila Dissanayake (GB) — 80.59

Rachel Steedman (GB) — 80.13

Charlie Marillier (GB) — 78.57

Christi Rees (South Africa) — 75.06

Siobhan Taylor (GB) — 73.48

Romina Basting (GB) — 68.86

Joanne Laird (GB) — 67.62

Danielle Reid-Clavelle (Canada) — 63.26

Amanda Hughes (GB) — 61.07

Maureen Gordon (GB) — 60.51

Agata Sitko (Poland) — DQ 

Equipped Bench Press — Men

Garrett Bentley (Canada) — 106.46 — 2,000 Euros

Per Hole (Norway) — 105.51 — 1,000 Euros

Rafał Zalewski (Poland) — 99.75 — 500 Euros

Keelum Walton (GB) — 98.89

Ralf Male (Norway) — 97.03

René Groß (Germany) — 93.10

Markus Glück (Austria) — 87.02

Grzegorz Nocek (Poland) — 88.38

Andy Champ (GB) — 87.04

Maciej Zastawny (Poland) — 86.54

Michael Gibson (GB) — 85.54

Scott Simon (GB) — 79.90

Joseph Shaw (GB) — 76.81

Alex Fodor (GB) — 74.09

Darren Ball (GB) — 69.73

Thomas Morgan (GB) — DQ

[Related: Zahir Khudayarov (140KG) Squats a 475-Kilogram Double In Wraps]

World Records

Sanchez Dillon (105KG) — 391-kilogram raw deadlift — IPF Open World Record

Kjell Bakkelund (74KG) — 340-kilogram raw deadlift — IPF Open World Record

Kjell Bakkelund (74KG) — 815 kilogram raw total — IPF Open World Record

Hildeborg Hugdal (84+KG) — 238 kilogram equipped bench press — IPF Open World Record

Agata Sitko (76KG) — 154.5 kilogram raw bench press — IPF Open World Record

Zuzanna Kula (52KG) — 161 kilogram equipped bench press — IPF Open World Record

Zurab Dzamukashvili (83KG) — 322.5 kilogram equipped deadlift — IPF M1 World Record

Maureen Gordon (69KG) — 105 kilogram equipped bench press — IPF M3 World Record

The next event in the IPF calendar is the 2024 World Bench Press Championships in Austin, TX, beginning on May 21, 2024. Over 1200 athletes are registered for the competition, which will be broadcast, in part, live on CBS.

Featured image: @theipf on Instagram

The post 2024 Arnold Sports Festival UK Powerlifting Results appeared first on BarBend.

2024 EPF European Classic Powerlifting Championships Results

The European Powerlifting Federation (EPF) recently restructured its calendar. As a result, their 2024 European Classic Championships (ECC) came just three months after the 2023 edition, giving the 2023 European Champions a fairly short tenure.

The six-day meet was held in Velika Gorica, Croatia, from March 12-17, 2024, and featured 210 athletes from 29 European countries.

[Related: Zahir Khudayarov (140KG) Squats a 475-Kilogram Double In Wraps]

[Related: Julius Maddox Performs 260-Kilogram (573-Pound) Seated Raw Shoulder Press in Training]

2024 EPF European Classic Powerlifting Championships Results

Below are the podium results for each contested division in Gorica:

Women’s 47KG

Annalisa Motta (ITA) — 387.5 kilograms

Dalida Mari (ITA) — 377.5 kilograms

Ana Lores Fernandez (ESP) — 362.5 kilograms

Women’s 52KG

Camille Hadrys (FRA) — 427.5 kilograms

Aleksandra Aranitovic (SRB) — 417.5 kilograms

Jelena Bijelic (AUT) — 405 kilograms

Women’s 57KG

Sovannphaktra Pal (FRA) — 555 kilograms

Adejoke Adetayo (GBR) — 450 kilograms

Jacqueline Ulrich (GER) — 437.5 kilograms

Women’s 63KG

Sara Naldi (ITA) — 525 kilograms

Chiara Bernardi (ITA) — 512.5 kilograms

Clara Isabelle Haeberer  (GER) — 492.5 kilograms

Women’s 69KG

Marte Kjenner (NOR) — 540 kilograms

Tasmin Campbell (GBR) — 527.5 kilograms

Ivana Horna (SVK) — 512.5 kilograms

Women’s 76KG

Lea Schreiner (GER) — 532.5 kilograms

Agnes Rudin (SWE) — 525 kilograms

Ellen Gronlund (FIN) — 525 kilograms

Women’s 84KG

Erholove Izobodo-John (GBR) — 583 kilograms

Ziana Azariah (GBR) — 583 kilograms

Alison O’Reilly (IRL) — 525 kilograms

Women’s 84+KG

Sonita Muluh (BEL) — 667.5 kilograms

Amelie Mierger (FRA) — 650 kilograms

Matilda Hjalle (SWE) — 590 kilograms

Men’s 59KG

Ivan Campano Diaz (ESP) — 585 kilograms

Julien Gutierrez (FRA) — 557.5 kilograms

Dariusz Wszola (POL) — 550 kilograms

Men’s 66KG

Federico Murru (ITA) — 635 kilograms

Valentin Fruchard (FRA) — 632.5 kilograms

Alvaro Fernandez Arcas (ESP) — 627.5 kilograms

Men’s 74KG

Joshua Wright (GER) — 745 kilograms

Eddie Berglund (SWE) — 742.5 kilograms

Alexander Eriksson (SWE) — 717.5 kilograms

Men’s 83KG

Jurins Kengamu (GBR) — 823.5 kilograms

Paul Rembeauville (FRA) — 797.5 kilograms

Enahoro Asein (HUN) — 792.5 kilograms

Men’s 93KG

Trygve Sletten (NOR) — 830 kilograms

Christian Ayandokun (GBR) — 830 kilograms

Nathan Gevao (GBR) — 802.5 kilograms

Men’s 105KG

Emil Norling (SWE) — 887.5 kilograms

Ben Pape (GBR) — 872.5 kilograms

Oluwadamilola Fashoranti  (IRL) — 862.5 kilograms

Men’s 120KG

Tony Cliffe (GBR) — 917.5 kilograms

Víctor Vázquez Hernández-Carrillo (ESP) — 907.5 kilograms

Inderraj Singh-Dhillon (GBR) — 895 kilograms

Men’s 120+KG

Temur Samkharadze (GEO) — 1063.5 kilograms

Ruben Rico Martin (ESP) — 935 kilograms

Steve Ringoot (BEL) — 880 kilograms

Standout Moments

Erholove Izobodo-John broke the Junior deadlift World Record with 263 kilograms

Temur Samkharadze broke the Junior deadlift and total World Records

Tasmin Campbell broke the Masters 1 (age 40-49) total world record with 527.5 kilograms

Amelie Mierger broke the bench press World Record with 165 kilograms

Jurins Kengamu broke the European squat record with 308.5 kilograms

The whole event is available to watch back on the EPF YouTube channel. The EPF now focuses on equipped (single-ply) powerlifting, as it will host its European Equipped Masters Powerlifting Championships in Hamm, Luxembourg, from May 1-4, 2024, and then the Open Equipped Powerlifting Championships in the same venue between May 7-12, 2024.

Featured image: @aaannalllisa on Instagram

The post 2024 EPF European Classic Powerlifting Championships Results appeared first on BarBend.

Exercise Scientist Breaks Down the Good (and the Unsafe) parts of Zac Efron’s Training

When it comes to achieving the chiseled, beach-ready physique Zac Efron showcased in the movie “Baywatch,” many fans and fitness enthusiasts are eager to learn the secrets behind such a transformation.

That ‘Baywatch’ look, I don’t know if that’s really attainable. There’s just too little water in the skin. Like, it’s fake; it looks CGI’d. And that required Lasix, powerful diuretics, to achieve. So I don’t need to do that. I much prefer to have an extra, you know, two to three percent body fat.

Zac Efron

See full video below

Dr. Mike Israetel, an esteemed exercise science professor, took to the task of dissecting Efron’s workout routine, as designed by trainer Patrick Murphy, to offer a critical perspective on its effectiveness, safety, and practicality.

With an overall rating of 7 out of 10, Dr. Mike’s review sheds light on the positives, negatives, and neutral aspects of the regimen, providing a comprehensive evaluation for those looking to emulate or understand the star’s fitness journey.

Positive Aspects of the Workout

One of the standout positives identified by Dr. Mike involves the use of supersets, which combine two exercises back-to-back without rest.

This approach not only maximizes time efficiency for those with busy schedules but also enhances calorie burn, making it a compelling strategy for intense training within limited time frames.

Furthermore, the inclusion of dynamic warm-ups—though with some reservations about specific stretches—was noted for its potential benefits in promoting blood flow and preparing the body for weight training.

Criticisms and Concerns

However, the workout routine is not without its critiques. Dr. Mike highlights several areas of concern, particularly around the choice of exercises and training methodologies.

The use of unstable surfaces, such as Bosu balls, was criticized for not being conducive to maximizing muscle growth and posing risks to individuals with joint issues.

Additionally, certain exercise variations, including single-leg lateral raises and the limited range of motion in floor presses, were deemed inefficient for hypertrophy training.

The emphasis on irrelevant cues, such as “keeping the abs in” during exercises that do not require such focus, and the inefficient allocation of time to isolated rear delt exercises were also called into question.

Moreover, the review sternly addresses the health risks associated with using diuretics to achieve extreme leanness, underscoring the potential dangers of such practices.

Neutral Observations

On a neutral note, Dr. Mike discusses intermittent fasting and the organic food debate.

While acknowledging that intermittent fasting can be a viable dietary approach for some, the review clarifies that it is not ideal for everyone, emphasizing the importance of tailoring diet plans to individual needs and goals.

Similarly, the perception that organic food is inherently healthier than processed food is debunked, with Dr. Mike advocating for a diet centered around minimally processed whole foods, regardless of their organic label.

Detailed Critique

Delving deeper into the critique, the review meticulously examines the warm-up routines and exercise selection, pointing out inefficiencies and suggesting more effective alternatives.

The analysis of supersets and their application further highlights the need for strategic pairings to optimize muscle rest and performance. Additionally, the dietary considerations discussed, including

Efron’s reliance on intermittent fasting and organic foods, are scrutinized for their role in achieving the desired physique and their broader implications on health and wellness.

Concluding Remarks

In conclusion, Dr. Mike Israetel’s review of Zac Efron’s “Baywatch” workout offers a balanced view, acknowledging the routine’s strengths while drawing attention to its shortcomings.

The critique serves as a reminder of the importance of evidence-based exercise science over celebrity-driven fitness trends, advocating for a sensible and health-focused approach to training and diet.

While the allure of achieving a “Baywatch body” may be strong, this review underscores the necessity of prioritizing safety, effectiveness, and individual health above all.

I started to develop insomnia, and I fell into a pretty bad depression, for a long time. Something about that experience burned me out. I had a really hard time recentering. Ultimately they chalked it up to taking way too many diuretics for way too long, and it messed something up.

Zac Efron

TRX Opens Functional Fitness Gym in South Florida HQ

TRX describes its Training Center as “a world-class fitness destination for functional training, HIIT, yoga, and other full-body workouts”

TRX Training has unveiled its new global headquarters in Delray Beach, Florida, which comes complete with a functional fitness gym known as the TRX Training Center that will host daily classes.

The new facility occupies over 12,000 square feet and includes office and gym space that includes lockers, changing rooms, private showers, and saunas. The building also houses a filming studio for live and on-demand content production. 

The TRX Training Center will host daily classes featuring the company’s equipment, including the Suspension Trainer, Rip Trainer, TRX YBell, and more, along with specialty programs and private training. The facility will also host local and global training summits, bringing coaches and fitness instructors to the area. The next summit is scheduled for May 4-5 and will celebrate TRX’s 20th anniversary

TRX describes the Training Center as “a world-class fitness destination for functional training, HIIT, yoga, and other full-body workouts.”

“We are thrilled to open the doors to our new headquarters and state-of-the-art TRX Training Center,” said TRX CEO Jack Daly. “The vibrant, wellness-oriented culture of South Florida perfectly aligns with our vision for the future of TRX, and we could not be more excited to finally welcome the local fitness community into our new home.”

credit: TRX Training

Last year, TRX signed the lease in Delray Beach, officially moving its global headquarters from San Francisco to Florida. In an interview with Athletech News in 2022, Jack Daly, who acquired TRX through his company JFXD Capital, commented on the strategic relevance of the new headquarters.

“We can focus on providing (high-quality service) to the hundreds of thousands of certified trainers worldwide. Our user base is ten times that: millions of TRX users,” Daly told ATN. “So, we can bring out a set of services for them that I think will be fun, exciting, and engaging, and really start building that community.” 

While it will open up its own in-person fitness location, TRX has also been leaning into strategic partnerships this year in the boutique fitness space. The company created custom suspension trainers for Xponential Fitness brands YogaSix and Club Pilates, as well as for Orangetheory Fitness.

Besides TRX, other major sports and fitness brands are seizing the opportunity to curate in-person workout experiences. Last year, Nike launched Nike Studios to offer in-person functional and endurance workouts through FitLab. The first studio locations opened in Santa Monica, Newport Beach and West Hollywood, California. An Austin, Texas, studio is slated to open soon.  

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Bruna Seredich Wins 2024 Sampson Showdown Pro Wellness Division Show

Bruna Seredich is the 2024 Sampson Showdown Pro winner. Seredich was one of 12 IFBB Pro League Wellness athletes competing in this show on Saturday, March 23, 2024, in Las Vegas, NV.

Seredich’s win qualifies her for the 2024 Olympia Weekend in Las Vegas, NV, on Oct. 10-13, 2024. Cassandra Pennington took silver, and Natalia Vasco rounded out the top three. The final standings for all 12 competitors are below, courtesy of the IFBB Pro League website:

2024 Sampson Showdown Pro Results

Bruna Seredich (United States)

Cassandra Pennington (United States)

Natalia Vasco (United States)

Alicia Self (Australia)

Brooke Hazard (United States)

Haley Johnson (United States)

Jenny Smith (United States)

Kali Nakvinda (United States)

Yadira Rosado (United States)

Alisa Sturkie (United States)

Tammy Sievers (United States)

Wendy Milhorn (United States)

[Related: Build Massive Arms Like Men’s Open Bodybuilder Hunter Labrada]

[Related: Arnold Schwarzenegger’s & Phil Heath’s Upper Body Workout at 2024 Arnold Sports Festival UK]

Winner — Bruna Seredich

Seredich has finished in the top 10 at the Olympia twice in her career. She was expected to be a contender in this show due to that experience. This was Seredich’s first contest appearance of 2024. She achieved a perfect score from the judges — the head judge was Steve DeVore.

Seredich has options thanks to her win. She can either focus on her third career Olympia appearance or continue competing throughout the season. If she competes and wins more pro shows, she can block other competitors from qualifying for the 2024 Olympia since only pro show winners earn Olympia spots. Her Olympia spot remains secure even if she competes again and doesn’t win.

Second Place — Cassandra Pennington

Pennington received all second-place votes on the scorecards to kick off her second year in the pro ranks. This was her third career pro show after previously ranking second at the 2023 Southern California Pro. To qualify for the 2024 Olympia, Pennington must score a pro show win before the Sept. 15, 2024 cutoff.

Third Place — Natalia Vasco

Vasco turned pro in 2022. She’s finished in the top three in all three of her pro shows thus far. Her most recent appearance before this show was in 2022 at the Shawn Ray Hawaiian Classic, where she ranked third. Vasco did not compete in the 2023 season.

Other Notes

Alicia Self of Australia was the fourth-place finisher in this competition. Self also won the Masters Over 35 division at this contest. The Over 40 winner was Jenny Smith, who finished the Open show in seventh place.

The next Wellness division contest on the 2024 season schedule is the Houston Tournament of Champions Pro in The Woodlands, TX, on Saturday, Mar. 30, 2024. The 2023 champion was Amanda Burnett.

Featured Image: @brunaseredich on Instagram

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2024 IWF World Cup Preview + How To Watch

A few short months remain before the Olympic torch is lit in Paris, France, this August. For weightlifters wishing to realize their Olympic dreams, the hour is late. There’s only one major qualification event left — the 2024 International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) World Cup.

This year’s Cup, which takes place from Mar. 31 to Apr. 11 in Phuket, Thailand, is the second of two compulsory events for all Olympic hopefuls. For many of the world’s best weightlifting athletes, it’s also the last chance to lift well enough to secure a ticket to Paris.

Courtesy of Weightlifting House

[Related: The Best Weightlifting Belts on the Market]

“[The Cup] is the culmination of the last 18 months of Olympic qualification,” says Seb Ostrowicz, owner of Weightlifting House, the primary broadcasting platform for this year’s World Cup. “All questions about who’s going to the Olympics will finally be answered.” 

In short: You won’t want to miss this one. Here’s what you need to know about the athletes and scheduling at the 2024 IWF World Cup.

How To Watch the 2024 IWF World Cup

Want to watch all the action in Thailand in real time? You need to know when, and where, to find the sessions. Here are the details.

Live Stream

House is the primary distribution platform for this year’s Cup, made available via subscription on Weightlifting House TV, which you can find here. Monthly access starts at $9.99. Group A events will feature real-time expert commentary from Ostrowicz and Max Aita, including athlete bios, stats, and trivia.

[Related: These Are the 10 Most Fun Weightlifters To Watch]

“We’re aiming at being the Netflix of weightlifting,” says Ostrowicz. Other House TV features include video-on-demand recordings of all prior sessions (including B and C-groups), a moderated live chat module.

The House team is also working on rolling out a ranking leaderboard that shows which athletes overtake each other for the coveted world top-10 slots — weightlifters who want to receive a bid to Paris must be in the top 10 in the world in their weight class. 

Session Schedule

Below you can find the schedule for all “A” Group sessions at the 2024 IWF World Cup in Phuket, Thailand. Note that all times are listed in Eastern Standard Time (EST) and that listed times are subject to change prior to the commencement of the event. 

Sunday, March 31

W45: 2:00 p.m.

Monday, April 1

W49: 11:30 a.m.

M55: 2:00 p.m.

Tuesday, April 2

M61: 11:30 a.m.

W55: 2:00 p.m.

Wednesday, April 3

W59: 2:00 p.m.

Thursday, April 4

M67: 11:30 a.m.

M73: 2:00 p.m.

Friday, April 5

W64: 2:00 p.m.

Saturday, April 6

M81: 11:30 a.m.

M89: 2:00 p.m.

Sunday, April 7

M96: 11:30 a.m.

W71: 2:00 p.m.

Monday, April 8

W76: 11:30 a.m.

M102: 2:00 p.m.

Tuesday, April 9 

W81: 11:30 a.m.

W87: 2:00 p.m.

Wednesday, April 10

W+87: 11:30 a.m.

M109: 2:00 p.m.

Thursday, April 11

M+109: 11:30 a.m.

Athletes To Watch at the 2024 IWF World Cup

For any Paris hopeful who currently sits outside the top 10 in their weight class, the competition in Phuket is do-or-die. “The further down the [ranking list] you go, the deeper you get into the ‘danger zone,’” says Ostrowicz. At the Cup, he says, you’re likely to see athletes in one of two situations: Those who are trying to prove to their country’s federation that they’re worth one of the three athlete slots, and those who are trying to make it into the top 10 in the first place. 

The further down the list you go, the deeper you get into the danger zone…

Ostrowicz notes that he is particularly excited to see the fates of the following athletes unfold in Thailand: 

Rizki Juniansyah (M73, INA): Juniansyah will make a last-ditch effort to surpass teammate (and number-one 73 in the world) Rahmat Erwin Abdullah just a few months after undergoing back surgery. 

Li Wenwen (W+87, CHN): “After her elbow injury at the 2023 World Championships, I’m excited to see whether she earns an Olympic spot,” Ostrowicz says. Wenwen was once a guaranteed pick for China, but the odds may have shifted out of her favor. 

Karlos Nasar (M89, BUL): The clean & jerk world record holder will face off against China’s two 89s, Tian Tao and Li Dayin, for the first time. 

Kate Vibert (W81, USA): “After moving up two categories to the 81s, her training has looked very strong,” Ostrowicz says, citing a recent 160-kilogram split jerk that Vibert hit in training. 

[Related: The Best Lifting Straps for Weightlifting]

You should also be on the lookout for these athletes, who must either perform better than they ever have in the past, or who are confirming to the world that they’re ready to throw down on the Olympic platform: 

Lasha Talakhadze (+109KG)

Georgia’s two-time Olympic Champion — and the undisputed strongest weightlifter in history — Lasha Talakhadze has already qualified for Paris. However, Talakhadze’s prowess has come under scrutiny after he suffered a leg injury shortly before the 2022 European Championships. 

[Related: Lasha Talakhadze Suffers Knee Injury, Withdraws From 2024 European Championships]

Since then, Talakhadze hasn’t been able to match or exceed any of his previous best lifts. While he’s still the presumptive winner of the super-heavyweight event in Paris, his lead in the Total against athletes like Gor Minasyan and Varazdat Lalayan is shrinking. 

Shi Zhiyong (73KG)

Prior to the 2023 IWF Grand Prix II in Dec. of last year, China’s Shi Zhiyong had never been defeated in an international weightlifting competition. After his commanding victory in the Tokyo Olympics, Zhiyong took a long hiatus from competition to nurse an ongoing back injury. 

He returned to the IWF stage last winter, but his 340-kilogram debut Total left him in a precarious seventh place in the 73-kilogram class. If Zhiyong wants to snag one of China’s three male athlete slots (and have a chance at his third Olympic gold medal), he’ll need to dig deep in Thailand. 

Loredana Toma (71KG)

Romania’s Loredana Toma is safely going to Paris. However, the former snatch world record holder’s chances of making it to the Olympic podium are more dubious. She’s yet to beat her 256KG Total from Worlds in 2022, the performance that landed her in 4th place in the world for the time being.

However, at her most recent competition (the 2024 European Championships in Feb.), Toma only managed a 241KG result. It was good enough for gold at that event, but were she ranked by that number and not her best from 2022, she’d drop down to 10th. 

In short: Toma needs to show that she’s back in fighting shape in Phuket. Otherwise, her chances of winning a medal in Paris are slim. 

Chen Lijun (61KG)

For most of this qualification cycle, one of China’s three male athlete slots was all but confirmed for 61-kilogram Olympic Champion Li Fabin. But Chen Lijun, an Olympic Champion (2020, 67KG) and five-time World Champion, is making a last-minute bid for Fabin’s ticket. 

Lijun’s last appearance in the 61s was the 2023 Asian Championships, where he Totaled 310KG. That result had him in 2nd place in the world, behind Fabin, in 2023. But if Lijun wants the 61-kilogram slot, he’ll need to beat Fabin’s best of 314, and do so convincingly. 

Team USA | 2024 IWF World Cup

After several grueling years, the Paris Olympics are finally in view. That doesn’t mean the race is over for the American athletes. “I think the women don’t have much to fear at this point, but for the men, the stakes couldn’t be higher,” says Jessie Johnson, weightlifting photographer and documentarian. 

Johnson refers to the trio of presumptive nominees on the women’s side: Jourdan Delacruz, Olivia Reeves, and Mary Theisen-Lappen, all of whom rank comfortably in the top 10 of their respective weight classes. On the men’s side of things, it’s still anyone’s game. 

Here is Team USA’s weightlifting roster for the 2024 IWF World Cup: 

Olivia Reeves (71KG)

Jourdan Delacruz (55KG)

Kate Vibert (81KG)

Mary Theisen-Lappen (+87KG)

Estelle Rohr (76KG)

Taylor Wilkins (59KG)

Mattie Rogers* (81KG)

Meredith Alwine (71KG)

Shayla Moore (59KG)

Isabella Rodriguez (55KG)

Hampton Morris (61KG)

Wes Kitts (102KG)

Nathan Damron (89KG)

Caden Cahoy (73KG)

CJ Cummings (89KG)

Caine Wilkes (+109KG)

Alejandro Medina (+109KG)

Ryan Grimsland (73KG)

Editor’s Note: Rogers recently announced her withdrawal from the Paris qualification process, but will attend the World Cup to weigh in.

[Related: The Best Weightlifting Shoes You Can Buy]

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Editor’s Note: BarBend is the Official Media Partner of USA Weightlifting. The two organizations maintain editorial independence unless otherwise specified. 

Featured Image courtesy of Weightlifting House

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Scientists Develop Pill that Mimics the Benefits of Exercise

What if you could get some of the health benefits of exercise without ever hitting the gym? 

Scientists are closer than ever to making this a reality. Their new research could lead to groundbreaking treatments for people who can’t exercise due to health conditions, medications, or aging

Imagine a world where muscle loss and even some neurodegenerative diseases could be addressed with a simple pill…

Could a Pill Replace Your Workout?

Researchers are exploring a fascinating new frontier: medication that simulates the physical benefits of exercise.

A Game-Changer for People Facing Health Challenges

This groundbreaking research could lead to new treatments for those struggling with conditions like muscle atrophy, heart failure, and neurodegenerative diseases. It could also help people who face muscle loss due to aging, cancer, genetic conditions, or even certain medications.

The research team, led by Bahaa Elgendy, a professor of anesthesiology at Washington University School of Medicine, successfully created compounds that mimic the metabolic, muscle-enhancing effects of exercise.

The Compound That Changed it All

A molecule they synthesized, known as SLU-PP-332, activates a family of proteins called estrogen-related receptors (ERRs), which play a critical role in how the body responds to exercise.  The new compounds designed in the study show even greater potential for enhancing the physical benefits gained from exercise.

Potential for Treating Neurodegenerative Conditions

ERR activity also seems to be important in protecting the brain against diseases like Alzheimer’s. While the initial compound can’t cross into the brain, the team created new versions capable of doing so – a promising development for those with neurodegenerative conditions.

“Not Replacing Exercise, but…”

“We cannot replace exercise,” Elgendy emphasizes. “If I can exercise, I should go ahead and get the physical activity. But there are so many cases in which a substitute is needed.”

For people who are physically unable to exercise, medications like those under development could dramatically improve their quality of life.

A Personal and Heartfelt Mission

“It’s been heartbreaking for me to see especially kids who cannot move…who suffer from Duchenne muscular dystrophy and all of these horrible diseases. I’m not a hundred percent sure that this could be a cure, but this could at least help some people…to improve their quality of life.”

Bahaa Elgendy

Important Note: This article does not substitute for medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare professional for personalized guidance about exercise and any relevant medical conditions or medications.

How Personal Trainers Can Navigate the Rise of Continuous Glucose Monitors

Athletech offers strategies and best practices for fitness professionals looking to leverage data provided by CGMs

Technology continues to pave the way for innovative approaches to health optimization. Among tools available, continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) offer a window into the body’s energetic fluctuations in real time. 

Originally developed for individuals who are managing diabetes, CGMs are becoming more prevalent in the fitness industry, heralded for their potential to uplevel training regimes for athletes and fitness enthusiasts alike.

Recently, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) cleared for marketing the first over-the-counter CGM, intended for anyone 18 years and older who does not use insulin, or non-diabetics who want to better understand how diet and exercise may impact blood sugar levels. 

With more people now having access to these devices, with the main goal of better understanding health biometrics, what do personal trainers need to know about CGMs, program design and scope of practice?

Education and professional application are keys to integrating CGMs into client experiences. 

Understanding Continuous Glucose Monitors

At its core, a continuous glucose monitor involves the use of devices that continuously track glucose levels in the interstitial fluid, providing insights into how various factors like diet, exercise, stress and sleep affect blood sugar levels. This information offers a detailed picture of metabolic health and how the body responds to different stimuli.

CGMs offer the potential for early detection of abnormal glucose regulation, helps in understanding the impact of various foods and physical activities on glucose levels, and can improve physical performance and recovery by optimizing nutritional strategies before, during and after exercise​​.

Exercise impacts glucose dynamics significantly, making CGMs a crucial tool for athletes and trainers. Understanding the relationship between glucose levels and physical performance can lead to more personalized and effective training programs. 

Specifically, in the context of fitness and athletic performance, CGMs can provide valuable insights into how to fuel the body optimally for different types of activities, according to Colleen Gulick, PhD, and owner of Podium Sports, LLC

In the realm of power sports, where success hinges on the ability to perform maximal muscle contractions repeatedly, understanding glucose dynamics through continuous glucose monitoring becomes crucial, according to Gulick. 

“As these intense activities unfold, the body taps into stored glycogen from the liver and muscles, often resulting in a noticeable glucose increase,” she says. “This serves as a signal that the body is fueling muscle contractions adequately. However, to sustain peak performance, especially as glycogen stores start to deplete, incorporating moderate amounts of healthy glucose sources can be key.”

It’s important to manage these intakes carefully to avoid large spikes, which could hinder performance by impairing fat oxidation and gluconeogenesis. 

Ultrahuman makes the M1, a CGM wearable (credit: Hyperhuman)

CGMs & Scope of Practice

When it comes to integrating continuous glucose monitoring into fitness training and nutrition advice, personal trainers must be mindful of their scope of practice. 

For example, providing general guidance on how physical activity influences glucose levels and overall wellness is within scope. However, interpreting specific CGM data to make detailed dietary recommendations or medical advice, especially for managing diabetes or other health conditions, falls outside a trainer’s expertise. 

Jenny Liebl, multi-certified personal trainer, DNA-based fitness coach and senior content developer at the International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA) says that CGMs are a class III medical device originally intended for use in healthcare to monitor blood sugar levels for diabetes and other medical therapies, although they’re now available to the public

“Some fitness and wellness companies sell these devices as part of programs for nutrition and fitness monitoring, recovery practices and more,” Liebl says, adding that the devices are so new on the open market that they can be relatively expensive, “as in several hundred dollars for the device and $200 or more monthly to have the data processed and shared with the wearer.”

Liebl cautions that if a fitness professional is working with clients who use CGMs, or utilizes them in their training strategies, “they must understand that they cannot be used to diagnose or treat medical conditions or identify any types of metabolic or digestive issues,” which still fall squarely with licensed medical professionals, and clients should be referred appropriately.

Liebl also highlights what a fitness professional can do with CGMs, including using the data to better understand how the food someone eats impacts their blood sugar, with the intention of understanding how this impacts energy availability during activity or exercise. 

“This data can also help a fitness professional and client understand how various intensities or types of exercise impact their blood sugar, again with the intention of relating that to their energy availability compared to the need during the activity,” says Liebel. 

“The data can also help someone create a nutritional strategy around activity (pre-, peri-, and post-workout nutrition) that is most effective for the client and their goals,” she adds.

Jenny Liebl (credit: ISSA)

How To Incorporate CGMs

When incorporating CGMs into fitness training, it’s a good idea to follow best practices that ensure both the efficacy of the program, scope of practice and the well-being of the client. Here’s an overview of some best practices for incorporating CGMs into fitness training programs:

Customization: Personal trainers and health coaches can use CGM data to tailor nutrition and exercise plans, optimizing glucose levels for enhanced performance and faster recovery. The goal is to adjust fueling and workout schedules based on the body’s glucose responses, thus providing a personalized approach.

Informed Adjustments: With real-time glucose monitoring, it becomes possible to adapt workout intensity and duration on the spot, minimizing the risk of overexertion and maximizing the effectiveness of each session.

Empowerment: Supporting clients in better understanding and interpreting their glucose data, in concert with a medical professional, can be empowering. Being informed about how their body responds to various stimuli allows clients to make better decisions regarding their health.

Health Information: Beyond fitness, CGM data can unveil insights into overall lifestyle choices affecting health, such as stress levels and sleep patterns. This holistic view supports comprehensive wellness strategies.

Looking ahead, the future of fitness training and nutrition advice is bright with the promise of more personalized, data-driven approaches. By embracing CGM technology judiciously and ethically, fitness professionals can significantly enhance client outcomes, paving the way for healthier, more informed clients.

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