Men's Physique: GX's road to the 2012 BC's (and beyond)

Hello all! My name is Brandon Best, and I am entering into the new Men's Physique division at the BC's this year. This is my first show, although not first attempt at it. Looks like this time, I am going to make it!!

I will endeavor to keep this short and sweet.

I am from the U.S., have been here in Surrey for almost fifteen months, and married to fitbody (Dawn Alison). My background is in martial arts, having trained in various styles of traditional Chinese gung-fu/wushu, and also in other arts, starting at ten-years-old (I am now 36), and am currently a student of Bak Mei gung-fu. My original goal was to put on size for bodybuilding, but when it was announced that Men's Physique was coming this year, with a straight shot to the BC's, top five going to Nationals, AND there was the chance at winning a pro card... and it was all happening here in the Metro Vancouver area, so I would not even have to leave the province... well, it just made good sense. I agreed, although reluctant, as I wanted to go with bodybuilding. However, I have had time to come to grips with this truth: Although I know what I want, the bottom line is that my genetics are suited for Men's Physique, not bodybuilding. Oh, I train like a bodybuilder. I eat like a bodybuilder. I technically build my body... but I am a Physique guy. So be it. I can dig it.

Enough for now. Follow along. You will come to know more about me, for sure. Some pictures to get things started. These will show me in my various stages throughout the last few years, going back as far as 2008 (the first picture), and ending with this year (taken this past Friday)...


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Get ready for a ride!!!

I am all over the place.

My website: www.absolutebesttraining.com

Facebook: facebook.com/GaoshangXiongshou

Twitter: @Xiongshou

Dawn and I have been keeping a close eye on the Men's Physique scene in the U.S. Yesterday was the 2012 NPC NY Metropolitans. It was a pretty large turnout for this division. And in the end, Class C winner Sadik Hadzovik took the overall...


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The IFBB Governor's Cup was on March 24, 2012. Taking the top spot in this show... Matt Christianer.


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It appears that Matt was a former MW bodybuilder, coming in tied for 15th at the 2010 NPC USA's.

Good stuff GX... work your butt off because i think there will be quite a few bodybuilders making the switch (myself included). I still haven't found any information on where they'll put mens physique at the National level yet. obviously the only 2 choices are either in bc with the elite bodybuilders and figure, fitness, bikini nationals or with the bodybuilders in Edmonton. I could see the women's physique for sure with the bodybuilders though. Cmon CBBF let's make some decisions known for the athletes who need to plan!.......man i am pumped for this... i have a feeling this could be my yr.:)

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Originally Posted by Delt King

Good stuff GX... work your butt off because i think there will be quite a few bodybuilders making the switch (myself included). I still haven't found any information on where they'll put mens physique at the National level yet. obviously the only 2 choices are either in bc with the elite bodybuilders and figure, fitness, bikini nationals or with the bodybuilders in Edmonton. I could see the women's physique for sure with the bodybuilders though. Cmon CBBF let's make some decisions known for the athletes who need to plan!.......man i am pumped for this... i have a feeling this could be my yr.:)

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Men's Physique will be with the Figure, Fitness, and Bikini Nationals in New Westminster, BC. Aug. 11.

Welcome Brandon,I believe the new class will become popular with the public.It would also be good to hear any fitness tips from your martial arts background,there is usually something that can provide insight.

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Originally Posted by cog

Welcome Brandon,I believe the new class will become popular with the public.It would also be good to hear any fitness tips from your martial arts background,there is usually something that can provide insight.

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That I can do!! It may take me a while to recall some specifics, because so much of it is second nature to me at this point, that it feels like a natural thing as opposed to something done specifically for a purpose.

Flexibility training would be the first, and most obvious influence to be culled from the martial arts. That is something that must not be ignored. And it is not just about doing the splits either. You want to have as much flexibility as possible with your body. This is not only good for your ROM in joints, BUT the stretching will also allow for a portion of a muscle shaping effect, which is one half of the whole that is created by the next part...

Which is iso-tension postures, taken from forms training. The very act of practicing forms themselves allows for a dynamic stretching environment and a low impact contraction environment (in comparison to weight training). Going back to the very beginning of Chinese martial arts, Da Mo developed moving exercise patterns (which later became adapted for fighting applicability out of necessity, becoming the wellspring for future Chinese martial arts styles) to essentially do just that: stretch and strengthen the body. So me, whereas this aspect of martial art practice has become a distant memory today, I still hold on to it for this reason. That said, moving through the various positions in forms is great for detailing muscle shape and appearance. Leave hypertrophy for the gym.

While any martial art will serve this purpose, be it Chinese or not, some of the better ones I can think of for this specific purpose are:

* Hung Gar
*Wing Chun
*Taijiquan
* Shotokan Karate

It really is an invaluable cross training. Also, do not forgo or underestimate the importance and worth of weapons training; this is an entirely different muscle control, balance, and expression in movement that will differ somewhat from empty hand practice. It will only benefit you more. Bear in mind though that, while not entirely true as was once thought, greater muscularity CAN be a bit of a hindrance. My current shifu keeps remarking about this. But it is doable. Now, if you are not so concerned with performance, and just looking at it from a complementary standpoint to your bodybuilding, enjoy! That is what it is there for.

We spend far more time building than stretching over here.Some of the best growth I ever experienced was when I did a lot(10 times a day)stretching of my upper body.Lower body most of us are in kindergarten,compared to martial artists.Apparently Tom Platz could do the splits.I looked at a martial arts site devoted to stretching,we have a lot to learn here.Most of us don't even spend the time for proper stretching for squats,including myself.

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Originally Posted by cog

We spend far more time building than stretching over here.Some of the best growth I ever experienced was when I did a lot(10 times a day)stretching of my upper body.Lower body most of us are in kindergarten,compared to martial artists.Apparently Tom Platz could do the splits.I looked at a martial arts site devoted to stretching,we have a lot to learn here.Most of us don't even spend the time for proper stretching for squats,including myself.

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Oh, trust me, consistent and proper stretching of hamstrings and groin will HUGELY effect all variations of the squat for the better.

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Regardless of what your specific endeavor is in all of this (bodybuilding or other physique divisions, Strongman, Olympic lifting, mainstream athletic sports, etc.), while you may be very good at what you do and you have come a long way, do you want to become complacent? Even with making progressive strides in your chosen field, there is room for an improvement from outside sources that will help you in your main chosen passion.

Now, I realize what that may sound like, being vague and ambiguous, and all, with me being a bodybuilder… but, no, I am not talking about what you would find in a bottle or a syringe. Instead, I am talking about your own gusto and ability… with a dose of quizzical interest. What I am talking about is cross training.

Not CrossFit, unless that is what you want to move into. If that is the case, go right ahead.

I am talking about finding a second (or third, even) physical activity, one that will require you to use your body and mind in a different way, ask something different of your body, put you in a different (yet, same) mindset, and overall, just make you more of a beast than you already have become.

It is beyond obvious what my combination has been and will be: bodybuilding/weight lifting and martial arts. And honestly, it does not stop there (because of contest prep, some other activities cannot happen at this time). After this contest season is over, I intend to return to some strongman training and power lifting. Bodybuilding will still be in the mix, but those three training protocols all require something different from the individual. Results are hugely different, but for me, they all have the same thing in common: I get better. That is all that matters to me.

So, whoever you are, there is no reason for you to be stymied by being burned out on a singular track of development. Take your pick of things… it will be good for your body, AND your mind (after all, an unhealthy mind will eventually give way to an unhealthy body). Do not just choose arbitrarily though… have some method to your madness, so to speak. I know exactly why I chose bodybuilding as a complement to my martial arts, and why both benefit from each other, therefore making both better, which equals me being better. And a really good, and unlikely example, would be my wife. In her teen years up into her mid twenties, she rode horses. Equestrian arts never would have come to mind, would it? But riding the horses took a lot of work; it is not just sitting up there and riding along. There is a LOT that goes into that, and it can be taxing on the body. But in training and riding horses, that provided the base for her to transition effortlessly into power lifting (which later saw her transition into bodybuilding).

Think about what you want to do, want to accomplish, want to achieve. If nothing in particular comes to mind, this is okay; you can always just go with what interests you, and over the course of time, you can make that connection with yourself and your secondary involvement, and discover how it is helping you and the primary.

Always want more. Always be more. Know you are more. Do more. Give more. More people then benefit from what you are, and with luck, the good influence spreads.

Some awesome posts Brandon. Welcome to the board. I can see that your background and knowledge will be invaluable to the board.

All the best in your prep...will follow your progress and look forward to watching you you up there with the final product!!

Couldn't agree more Brandon.If more people adopted that outlook we wouldn't have so many people that drop out with the passage of time.

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Originally Posted by cog

Couldn't agree more Brandon.If more people adopted that outlook we wouldn't have so many people that drop out with the passage of time.

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I do not understand people sometimes, cog. But I hope in my blogs (this is the copy and paste of today's entry) that what I have within, I can use to influence others for their own betterment. And if I have reached even just one person, and affected change, then I have done what I set out to do. I will be posting my blog entries here. As of lately, just one a day... but sometimes two a day.

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Originally Posted by razorsedge

Some awesome posts Brandon. Welcome to the board. I can see that your background and knowledge will be invaluable to the board.

All the best in your prep...will follow your progress and look forward to watching you you up there with the final product!!

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Thank you! I have been around for a few years here and there... I stay pretty low key, although Dawn is reversing this slowly but surely.

I have always gone the way of the dragon from Chinese mythology... Dragons only appear when someone is ready (read:able) to see them, or sometimes, randomly at will. I liked that approach, personally. Anyway, I do hope that I will be of some use here. :)

April 4, 2012

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Let us say that you want to get into your car and drive to a destination 500 miles away from your home. You have never been there before, and you only really have a vague idea of how to get there. Do you just get into the car and go, hoping and trusting that you will get to that end point?

Well, yes, you could do that. Or you could get some directions on how to get there. That would be the better, and more practical solution (granted, everyone is not trying to look like the guy in the picture above, but just hear me out on this).

Do you enjoy the guesswork that comes with going at it alone? That is the same as traveling down an interstate highway, coming to an off ramp that you are SUPPOSED to take, but have no real idea, and so you keep going straight instead, making a mistake. Or how about listening to misinformation (and believe me, there is a LOT of it. What you think might sound legitimate is actually the furthest thing from it. Case in point: Someone tells you creatine is a steroid. Need I say more?) Essentially, someone is giving you the wrong directions, and you will be lost.

Travel that road several times (or in the case of training and diet, over a period of time), and you know the way from experience. And yes, there are generally several different (albeit sometimes similar – some are really far removed from the conventional path) routes to take to get to the same place. It is good to get a feel for the different paths… find one that works for you, or maybe even combine several and make your own route (again, if that really works for you). Remember though, you did need some initial direction to start, and perhaps will need some as the journey progresses. The point is… the destination will clearly be in sight if you know how to get there. Do not let pride or ego stand in your way. If you say you want to look like this or that… like someone says that they want to leave their home and drive to Las Vegas… then get some direction and do it. There is no sense floundering around and wasting gas just spinning your wheels and driving around in circles.

Not all of us will lead you astray.

April 5, 2012

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Following somewhat closely on the heels of yesterday's entry is today's, focusing on actually following directions as opposed to making deviations or trying to take unapproved shortcuts. And the most obvious correlation in this is with your diet.

None of us are the same. I have often taken that for granted, expecting that if I am as hardline as I am for my results and what I want to accomplish, that anyone else who does this will be the same... and being perplexed when they proved themselves not to be. No one is me. I am not sure of the existence of anyone else who would turn down a cheat meal, wanting the satisfaction of unwavering discipline and first in class, overall, and a pro card instead of the temporary bliss and settling of mind that would come with the cheat meal. Yes, I am a strange one... I would rather stay hellbent on something that might not happen instead of feeling as if I compromised myself for something that could happen. BUT... that is just me. I speak only for me, and act only for me. Believe me, I would implement cheat meals for people if they can have them.

However, I hear all the time about people complaining about how the diet is not working, how they still feel fat (I know one girl in particular, who for all of her "being fat" is one of the better looking people heading into competition and will be... if she can get her head right), how they cannot help cheating, how... you get the idea. Or, someone will change something in the diet just because they do not like the way something else in it was laid out for them, or make a substitution for their own comfort, or... again, this can end up anywhere. But you see where I am going with this.

My question is: Why?

I look at it this way: I am going to be out on that stage in front of several hundred complete strangers, magazine photographers, friends and family who believe in me, and whomever else there may be. Competition in this arena is possibly the most personal and intimate one can experience, as you are truly exposing yourself for all to see, and be judged. The journey to the stage will show you and all those around you what you are made of, and there is no way to hide it at any point unless you go into seclusion for the duration. So... with the world watching (I just see it that way, whether it be true or not, now with the instant accessibility of the Internet and pictures being able to be sent via text message... any and all eyes can be on you at any given moment), why would I want to present anything less than my absolute best? There will be photo shoots to come. I have to be in front of the camera, and unless I planned to just lock those images away, which I do not intend to do, anyone and everyone will see them; excellence must be presented. But that will not happen if I carelessly indulge, giving way to whatever stresses may come. And we all have them. No one is immune. You do what you can to not give in to them, instead of just say "screw it", and have at it.

It is easier said than done for many, I know. I have a strict martial arts background to draw from, so it is not even a thought for me to stay true... I just do, with the goal in mind; nothing more. But for those who have a different background, there is only one thing I can say to you: OBEY. You know what you are supposed to do. You know how you are supposed to do it. You know why you are doing it. Therefore, just do it.

It is hard? Welcome to Life. Nothing is easy, unless you want it to be. Cardio... well, let me just be frank about it: Cardio sucks. But it is a necessity, end of story. DO IT. DO IT ALL. Ask yourself how badly do you want your results. If you say you really want them, but then bite down into a muffin or doughnut or a double cheeseburger (unless it is an authorized cheat), then you do not want it. You must be truthful in your belief and intent. Otherwise, you fail yourself.

And I propose that you try to live with that, rather than live with the alternative. If you think dealing with the diet is hard, try dealing with that!

Nice to see you on the board Brandon, you and dawn used to train at my home gym fitness world in surrey. The new physique division seems to be all about the shoulders, chest and abs. You should do very well, good luck

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Originally Posted by ubcpower

Nice to see you on the board Brandon, you and dawn used to train at my home gym fitness world in surrey. The new physique division seems to be all about the shoulders, chest and abs. You should do very well, good luck

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Thank you! I am excited to get the show on the road! If you are at the BC's, or even in Kelowna for the show there, come by and say 'Hi'.

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The Perfect Weapon Women's Self Defense Class

For anyone reading this, please spread the word regarding this class if you can.

I am starting a women's self defense class on April 16th. One thing that I absolutely cannot stand is the assault and abuse on women today, especially in supposedly loving relationships. The need today for a woman to know how to defend herself and keep herself safe is more important than ever. It is for this reason that I have searched the teachings and concepts of all that I have learned in the martial arts, and have combined it with basic personal survival skills that one needs to avoid, escape, or engage and conquer an aggressive encounter.

The idea of a self-defense "course" does not sit well with me. It is nigh impossible to expect someone who has taken 10-12 classes over a period of a few weeks to be able to functionally defend themselves, given the focus of most all self-defense classes today... which is purely on technique. There is a lot... and I do mean A LOT that goes into a physical altercation, that is overlooked in instruction today. Where my class will stand out from these is in several areas.

To begin with, while techniques for nullifying an attacker will most certainly be stressed and taught, a bigger part of my focus will be in developing key attributes... not so much to turn a woman into a fighter, but to make her be able to fight if she has to. This attribute development extends beyond just the physical as well, moving into the mental.

Next, where as other classes today have a preset curriculum to teach, or a general scope of techniques, what I offer comes from a traditional Shaolin (my major backgound) approach. During times long past, students of Shaolin first learned the basics of wushu, spending perhaps a year working on stances, footwork, basic hand techniques, and kicks. From there, the student moved into a proficiency, based on his ability, personality, and personal physical attributes. In this class, there is a basic curriculum to learn, setting the progression for where this class really shines: In time, I will see each student's strength and weakness, and then provide a further, streamlined offense/defense solution for that individual... meaning that no two students will be the same or follow the same formula, and each student, because of their carefully selected method, will be more comfortable with what they are doing. In short, their course of study is customized for them, which is NOT found in any self defense class or martial arts school at all.

Also, completely optional to the student, there will be traditional weapons training available, to make them more complete in the event of an aggressive situation. The reason for this is that not only does weapons training entail and teach a different movement (more to add to one's arsenal), but the training of traditional weapons can translate to the use of any item that she may have to grab in a defense situation. Among weapons taught are staff, Chinese broadsword, knife fighting (single and double blade), and more. A greater length in time in studying with me will introduce the student to more advanced weapon training, such as the wooden bench, and the two sword technique of Nito-Ryu (learning to use weapons of differing length and weight simultaneously; also covered in stick and dagger fighting). Again, this is not seen in any self defense class today, and all martial arts schools generally stick with the weapons contained within their style. If a student chooses to partake of this option, I will tell them where they will be able to obtain their weapons for a reasonable price, where they will be of good quality.

Finally, this class is ongoing, and not set for a determined length of time, 10 classes, 12 weeks, etc. Because of the way I teach (coming from the background that I do), I am able to work with anyone of any skill level at any time on anything, and not be thrown off of my train of thought for another person. So, while even though the student will be in a class setting, they still will be getting personal attention from me. Classes will be sold in four month lots though, at a fraction of the cost that other schools/programs cost.

Another benefit to this class:

Students receive, with their four paid months, six free one-on-one classes with me, by appointment, for one hour. These appointments can also be used to take the place of a missed class during the regular schedule.

This is essentially all of the information regarding the class. Again, if any of you are in the Surrey, or Metro Vancouver area and are interested, or have specific questions, please email me at absolutebest3@hotmail.com , or if you know of someone in the area who may be interested (or worse, have a need), please pass this information along.

Thank you.

Sounds very,very good Brandon.My wife no longer trains in the martial arts due to her health,but she did many different styles including weapons.She originally got the bug from her father,who was a very experienced jump trained commando in WWII.We practiced many times,she would demonstrate techniques to stop a man,she was very flexible.

April 7, 2012

My apologies, but I do not have update pictures for this week. I was not able to coordinate my regular picture time. I will be waiting until next week at the regular time to take them, so do know that 11 week out pictures will be here!

Earlier this week, the idea of me entering into the upcoming Emerald Cup was entertained. Ultimately, decided against, Dawn said that I was looking good enough at this point to take a stab at it (as it can only get better from here). So no detour for me, just keep pushing straight ahead to the BC's.

Part of the contest dieting process is the unfortunate and perhaps unavoidable diminishing of mental capacity and functioning due to the lowered food intake and lack of sleep (or very little) that can be experienced by some. I know I have not had a problem in that department, for sure. I remember another prep diet though, where my sleep was really erratic and definitely not solid throughout the night, and that was a result of the intensity of my training. It is still intense this time around, but sleeping is not an issue. I am sure with enough thought though, I can figure it out, and be able to pass it along with my other experience. ANYWAY... as I was saying, things happen when in this depleted state. It is either funny or tragic, depending on how you wish to look at it. Several weeks ago, for whatever reason that I cannot even begin to comprehend, I got out of the car, and went into the gym... left the keys in the door. About ten minutes later, one of the gym members came in, and asked my wife and I who he should give the keys to. We are really fortunate that no one took the car, because this is not exactly the best area for truthful people. Fortunately, he was one of them.

That was a pretty dark day for me. Never in my life had I done anything so stupid, and never in my life had I felt so dumb. That was the day that I decided that I was not going to let being tired get to me anymore. Something of a struggle, still, but I manage. I know it is normal for this to happen, but for me, I see it as a major weakness to succumb to this (I would not say this about anyone else; I speak only for myself). So, in an effort to stave off further diminishing mental function and capacity, I have taken some daily measures now. Probably about ten years ago, I read something somewhere that stated that keeping the brain busy with things like crossword puzzles or word searches would keep mental functioning high. Ever since reading that, I have done it. And after that incident, I returned to doing word search puzzles, and have added in Sudoku, for a warm up. I have also started solving mathematical equations of various branches (mostly Trigonometry). Finally, just for a little light reading to relax the brain gently, I am again reading Kierkegaard. It would be interesting too, to go back and reread Nietzsche's 'Beyond Good and Evil' again. I have not read that since I was nine-years-old. Actually, 'Thus Spoke Zarathustra' should be a good choice too. Maybe a trip to the bookstore or to find an online download somewhere is in order. In any case, I am not going down without a fight.

I got more work done on my left sock (lower leg tattoo) Thursday. It hurt like Hell. Still does. I am having to take Asprin right now to dull the pain, and it wakes me up sometimes at night. I know how it is though... another two or three days, and the pain should be gone completely. It was definitely hard on a guy who is single digit body fat!! And no matter what you have, when the tattoo has to cross the shin or the Achilles tendon, you are in for some pain. But, when I am healed, I just go back, get it finished, and move on from there.

Anyway, that is it for me this week in review!

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Originally Posted by cog

Sounds very,very good Brandon.My wife no longer trains in the martial arts due to her health,but she did many different styles including weapons.She originally got the bug from her father,who was a very experienced jump trained commando in WWII.We practiced many times,she would demonstrate techniques to stop a man,she was very flexible.

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First and foremost, I am a martial artist. When everything else in this world has come and gone for me, I will still be that same martial artist that I started out as. That is something that will NEVER leave me.

Hey GX, are you able to go straight to the BC provincials without a top placing at a regional show? In ontario the OPA says i have to start all the way at the bottom at a regional show before going to provincials and eventually the national show in bc (because my bodybuilding qualifications don t crossover to Physique class). So i m planning on doing all 3 shows, assuming success allows it. i was looking at the National show in New Westminster---it s about 35-40minutes away from the Vancouver airport (effing taxi costs are going to kill me) Too bad they didn t pick a location closer to the airport for all the athletes coming from all across the country. Anyway, keep crushing the prep GX.

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Originally Posted by Delt King

Hey GX, are you able to go straight to the BC provincials without a top placing at a regional show? In ontario the OPA says i have to start all the way at the bottom at a regional show before going to provincials and eventually the national show in bc (because my bodybuilding qualifications don t crossover to Physique class). So i m planning on doing all 3 shows, assuming success allows it. i was looking at the National show in New Westminster---it s about 35-40minutes away from the Vancouver airport (effing taxi costs are going to kill me) Too bad they didn t pick a location closer to the airport for all the athletes coming from all across the country. Anyway, keep crushing the prep GX.

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hi ya
ya here in BC we are allowing both mens and womens physique to go straight to the BC Championships without qualifying
we will be having classes available at both Kelowna (drug tested) in May and Fort St John show in June
but they don't have to do those shows
and because Nationals is here in our province this yr top 5 from BC's will go to Nationals this yr instead of top 3

as for getting to your hotel
we will pick you up from the airport if you like
and if you want to know where a hotel is with a kitchenette instead of contest hotel let us know
we are about 15 mins from the venue
theres a hotel darn near across the street from us with kitchenettes
and we can drive you to and from the athletes mtg, show if you like

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Originally Posted by fitbody

hi ya
ya here in BC we are allowing both mens and womens physique to go straight to the BC Championships without qualifying
we will be having classes available at both Kelowna (drug tested) in May and Fort St John show in June
but they don't have to do those shows
and because Nationals is here in our province this yr top 5 from BC's will go to Nationals this yr instead of top 3

as for getting to your hotel
we will pick you up from the airport if you like
and if you want to know where a hotel is with a kitchenette instead of contest hotel let us know
we are about 15 mins from the venue
theres a hotel darn near across the street from us with kitchenettes
and we can drive you to and from the athletes mtg, show if you like

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Wow that's so nice of you guys. i ll definitly get hold of you when i get through the first 2 shows and make my arrangements for Nationals. You guys are the best...cheers!

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Originally Posted by Delt King

Wow that's so nice of you guys. i ll definitly get hold of you when i get through the first 2 shows and make my arrangements for Nationals. You guys are the best...cheers!

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whatever we can do to help you just holler

Well, she definitely answered your question more succinctly than I could. But after all, this is coming straight from the VP of the BCABBA!

It will be fun! Just like the camaraderie that Arnold and the guys had back in the day. Bodybuilding, and any division associated under that umbrella, needs more of that anyway. :D

April 8, 2012

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Life is about choices, and the choices we make define who we are. This is not a good or bad thing… this is just how it is.

So, if the choice you make is for material possessions over your fitness, health, and well being, then you make it pretty apparent to the world where your priorities lie.

Why not make the investment in yourself instead of the good time you will have, moments which will come and go in an instant? Sure, memories will be made, had, digitally saved, and never forgotten… but your body is the only one you get, and you will have it forever.

Therefore, you cannot say that you cannot afford personal training or the healthier lifestyle, if in the same breath, you make mention of just buying a new H2 Hummer, a BMW motorcycle, a second home somewhere, or are taking off for three weeks to some remote island. It is not that you cannot do what you must for your body and health, because clearly you can. You just want something different, is all. And that is fine. Just do not lie to others, or more importantly, to yourself about it.

If the things in your life are more important than the quality of your life, see how far that gets you. Yes, Life is to be enjoyed, but I would think that one would want to be able to enjoy life in as grand a fashion as possible through optimum health and performance. At least that is how I want to go through life.

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Eating cleanly and properly is expensive? It can be, but does not have to be. Smarter shopping is the answer, meaning a little work and some time invested on your part is in order. OR… you can just blow it all on quick, supposedly inexpensive food, and really shrink the holdings of your wallet, while increasing the size of your waist at the same time!!! It is the gift that keeps on giving!

Life is about choices, and it is the choices that we make that define who we are. Comfort, just like anything else in life, has its price. If you are willing to pay, have at it. A better payment plan would be into yourself, which will repay you dividends. But… I am just an outsider looking in on your life. But I will tell you this like I tell the competitors… suffer now, but smile later.

And unlike anything material in this world, that is not going anywhere.

April 9, 2012

Today's blog entry is really long and involved. So rather than copy and paste it here, I will just leave the link:

http://absolutebesttraining.com/?p=640

This is certainly worth the time it takes to read. Pass it on as you see fit!

April 10, 2012

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For any man or woman in this lifestyle, what draws a person into this, makes them stay… you already get it. For those not though, there seems to be a bit of confusion, and hopefully, I can clear that up today.

I recall seeing shows like ‘The Jenny Jones Show’ or ‘Donahue’, and on the rare occasion that they had a female bodybuilder on the panel, or an entire show focused on female bodybuilders (Jenny Jones’ producers made it seem like more of a freak show than anything else), the response from the audience in attendance was always one of shock, disgust, and even outrage. There were questions such as “Why would you do that to yourself?!”, “Why did you get into doing this?”, and “Are you trying to be a man?!” You know… really ignorant questions (and not ignorant as in the textbook definition of the word, but just plain out mean and stupid). And most times, the women were not top level competitors. Some were not even competitors at all, just women who loved to lift. It did not matter to the audience. No matter what they said, the audience booed them as if they had done something horribly wrong. Of course, it did not help that they were put on the defensive, most likely from having to deal with negative backlash personally. But the whole thing really was a recipe for disaster. And the intolerance and judgment surrounding those women’s (or any women’s) involvement in the fitness lifestyle, to whatever degree they chose, was stifling and unbearable almost all times.

What it is that calls women to lifting weights, and developing muscle (which WILL happen if she trains and eats correctly, and puts forth the requisite efforts)? People would be really surprised. To this day, men and women alike still pose the same questions mentioned above, plus other not-so-tasteful or tactful inquiries. Perhaps even you have often wondered what that reason is.

The answer is this: There is no definite answer. Everyone is different. Everyone is on their own journey, in their own time, for their own reason. One should not be so quick to judge another, as you have no idea what that person’s story is. Because whether you know it or not, everyone… even you… has one.

There are women who get into the fitness lifestyle because they see it as a means to use the discipline required for all components to gain control over an eating disorder. Some women may use it as a way to feel empowered, and in control of something, stemming from an unfortunate sexual or physically abusive relationship or childhood. There are women who enter into the lifestyle in order to maintain a recovered status from injury, or to better manage a disease (one of my clients came to me to gain strength to deal with the Multiple Sclerosis that has ravaged her body). Some women, having had an athletic background in earlier days, move onto weight training to keep in touch with their athletic side; their wish is to not be inactive, and the discipline and intensity of weight training is the draw for them that they can relate to from their earlier athletic endeavors. And then there are some women who just like to get physical and move heavy weight.

You ask why? I ask you why not? If anyone knows what the problem is with a woman wanting to do what she feels is better for herself mentally and physically (maybe even emotionally), improving upon what she has been given in life, or in worst case scenarios, what she has allowed her life to become… please, share it with the rest of us.

The reasons are endless. But each reason is valid. For those who question and belittle those who would do so, would you want someone telling you that what you are doing is wrong, or makes no sense, or anything negative in an attempt to dissuade you from pursuing something that you are passionate about? For instance, let us use scrapbooking as an example. Someone out there reading this loves it. It does not hurt anyone, does not endanger anyone, has a positive focus, is productive in its own right, and brings the participant happiness and contentment. And there are many out there who may see your hobby as a waste of time, money, energy, and all around boring, and would not hesitate to tell you such at any given chance. Do you really think you would want to hear that? Or would you rather be able to make your case for your involvement, expressing your joy, sincere earnestness, and devotion to your craft and what it does for you? In the end, perhaps you still will not change their opinion of your activity, but maybe they can at least stop asking “Why?”

And that is all that I am saying to you… you never know what or why a woman has chosen to transform her body through weight training. But I can guarantee you that she is not intent on challenging the status quo. But, even if she is… that is her prerogative! There is a reason for everything.

Understand this.

And the same goes for guys...although more easily accepted by society now in general the reality is i still get looked at like some kind of freak...even in the gym setting by other members. People try to dissuade us and it only strengthens our resolve to achieve our goals. The public may not understand but we only ask for acceptance, tolerance and please stop asking "how much steroids do you take". Unless you want me to ask you "so how much junk food do you eat?" lol. great post as always.

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Originally Posted by Delt King

And the same goes for guys...although more easily accepted by society now in general the reality is i still get looked at like some kind of freak...even in the gym setting by other members. People try to dissuade us and it only strengthens our resolve to achieve our goals. The public may not understand but we only ask for acceptance, tolerance and please stop asking "how much steroids do you take". Unless you want me to ask you "so how much junk food do you eat?" lol. great post as always.

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Indeed! Over on my blog, I have dedicated this entire week as a focus on women and their involvement in the fitness lifestyle. Yesterday's entry was just way too involved and long to post here (word count of 2100+!!!) with many different pictures. So I just left the link for that one. I consider that to be my magnum opus... even though I still have so much life left ahead of me.

I am a huge proponent for and supporter of the women's side of this sport and women training in general. I have been extremely outspoken about it in the past on various forums, and those who know me well know exactly where I stand on it and why.

I am glad you liked it! Thank you! Writing was always my other original passion, starting right about the time (maybe just a short, unmeasurable bit before martial arts). I post at least one entry a day to my blog. Some days, if I have time, two. I love to write, and will write about anything. Having the blog lets me do it.

By the way... how long does it take before I have access to a signature line here?

April 11, 2012

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In tandem with yesterday’s blog entry about how and why women get into weight lifting and the pursuit of the fitness lifestyle, today brings the insight as to what one receives from their labor and dedication to themselves. Just as there are comments and questions regarding why a woman would train with a purpose, there is the same insincere inquisitiveness surrounding what a woman would “get” from it.

Think about this: In taking this journey into lifting, proper nutrition, regimentation, and persistence, you come to spend a lot of time reflecting within yourself, really getting to know and understand more about how you think, why you do what you do, and why you want to go wherever you want to go. You discover feelings and ideas about yourself that you never knew before, or would have even thought to exist. You find out what you are made of, how much you can take, how much you are willing to give, how much you actually mean to yourself. You may think you know yourself, but you come to find out that it really is like opening a new book which you have never seen before. And this book has no end yet. It is up to you to write it. And so, in the many various lives of the women who have undertaken the pursuit of their own best physical excellence, what they “get” from their passion is oftentimes far more valuable and holds much more worth than the muscle that they gain from their diligence.

Being physically stronger is one thing that appeals to many women. Who could not use a little more strength in their lives? If they are goal driven, following a carefully constructed and detailed training and nutrition regimen is the appeal, with the payday not being what was gained from it, but the mere satisfaction of setting a goal, having a plan, following through, and completing the task. I have come to understand that some see it as a character building opportunity, making themselves stronger and better as a person by developing a strong and able body that runs like a well oiled machine. Others still use the approach to consistency, the attention to detail that is required, the repetitive processes of all that is necessary, and blend that into other areas of their life, thereby enriching and enhancing the quality of their life overall. Here also, the benefits are numerous, endless. And what it really amounts to is that in one’s pursuit of their goal, whatever the reason(s) may be, the end result and the by-products of the journey will be intense on a personal level. Perhaps even a level that someone on the outside looking in would not ever be able to fully understand or associate with. But realize that what she “gets” out of training like that is good for her, in her own way. Do you have to agree with it? No, certainly not. Just be aware that what drives you to do what you do, she has that same something to do what she does, and she intends to get what is coming to her.

She does not need permission to do as she pleases. She does not need acceptance. Chances are, she probably could not care less what anyone thinks of her and her efforts. But what she, and anyone else needs, is the opportunity to be themselves and to become more of themselves, without interruption, or dissuading. Everyone wants to grow (some literally, some figuratively, some both… the pun is not intended, but it does fit!!), and no one should be made to feel badly or inferior for it.

This is the type of thing that keeps many women from making what is guaranteed to be a promising change in their lives. Between the sneers and jeers of the societal norm, colleagues, and even so-called “close friends”, the argument for good physical health and appearance for women gets overshadowed very easily. You reading this right now, if you are a woman, maybe you have even felt something similar to this at some point, or still do? I can tell you now that there is absolutely nothing wrong with this pursuit.

Every woman deserves to lead a healthy and sound life. However they do it is just that: however they do it. If that involves a shift in lifestyle that will bring her the peace of mind and body that she wants, then she should. If you have been part of the vicious cycle of decrying and bemoaning of a woman training in the gym, please reconsider. You have no idea of what you would potentially be putting a stop to.

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Originally Posted by Gaoshang Xiongshou

By the way... how long does it take before I have access to a signature line here?

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50
Welcome to CBB btw :)

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Originally Posted by MuSuLPhReAk

50
Welcome to CBB btw :)

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Thank you!!

April 11, 2012

Another fairly lengthy one here, because I am notorious for being long on words...

http://absolutebesttraining.com/?p=667

Brandon...I have to say your posts are awesome and you have hit it on the head several times here.

Keep it rolling......

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Originally Posted by razorsedge

Brandon...I have to say your posts are awesome and you have hit it on the head several times here.

Keep it rolling......

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Thank you so much. I sincerely appreciate that. Dawn will tell you that I do not really speak a lot, unless I just have to. She probably wonders what is going on in my head because I say so little. The majority of what I write is a direct reflection of what is going on up there, and I am happy to share!!

April 13, 2012

Today's blog entry. Does it actually top Monday's? I am not sure, but I think it just might!

http://absolutebesttraining.com/?p=675