In this publication, I've presented science-based training techniques that work for most people. When I say "science-based" I'm referring to the fact that most of this information has appeared in various scientific studies of competitive bodybuilders. But there are … [Read more...]
Another Natural Bodybuilder Prepares by Jerry Brainum 1/21
I've covered bodybuilding contest preparation extensively in past issues of Applied Metabolics. These prior articles have discussed in detail methods of contest prep used by a wide range of bodybuilders and fitness athletes, ranging from so-called natural bodybuilders who … [Read more...]
Amateur Versus Pro: Differences in Precontest Nutrition Strategies by Jerry Brainum 1/20
Why do some bodybuilders go all the way to the professional ranks of bodybuilding competition, while others never venture past amateur status? Are there any particular physical and mental attributes that allow a person to progress to the very zenith of bodybuilding … [Read more...]
After the Contest Ends: a follow-up by Jerry Brainum
In the August, 2017 issue of Applied Metabolics I discussed the details of a study that examined the physiological aftermath of contest preparation in natural or drug-free bodybuilders. The subjects in that study included 7 men and 8 women, made up of bikini competitors, … [Read more...]
After the Contest Ends by Jerry Brainum
Until recently, bodybuilding was virtually ignored by sports scientists. While studies of the effects of drugs commonly used by athletes, such as anabolic steroids, did exist in the medical literature there was nonetheless a dearth of information about the science … [Read more...]
Unleashing the Wild Vince (Gironda) by Jerry Brainum
"There's no doubt about it. I am hated and I am loved. Why? Because I am dogmatic. I have this unforgivable feeling inside of me when it comes to bodybuilding. I know what I am talking about. If it ruffles feathers, so be it. I can neither compromise nor save feelings … [Read more...]
Preparing for a Women’s Figure competition: A Science-Based Approach by Jerry Brainum
In prior issues of Applied Metabolics, I've discussed in detail scientifically-based techniques used to prepare for men's professional bodybuilding competition, which involved a case study of precisely how a top-5 Mr.Olympia competitor prepared for the contest and got into the … [Read more...]
The 3/7 system: A better way to train? by Jerry Brainum
Those who are cynical often say that when it comes to nutrition and exercise, there is nothing new and exciting. Such people clearly don't view the ongoing research on these topics, since in fact the amount of new information about exercise and nutrition … [Read more...]
Can Ashwagandha help increase muscular size and strength? by Jerry Brainum
Can an herb whose name roughly translates into "smell of horse" help you add muscular size and strength? The herb in question, ashwagandha, has been revered in Ayurvedic medicine, or the folk medicine of India, for centuries. The botanical name for ashwagandha is … [Read more...]
Only the dose determines the poison (hormesis and muscle growth) by Jerry Brainum
Recently, I watched a few videos on YouTube related to nutrition and bodybuilding. In one video, the self-appointed "expert" suggested that the key to obtaining massive muscular arms involved doing 3 sets of 100 repetitions of lying triceps extensions, … [Read more...]