💪 4 Tips to Torch Belly Fat Fast

Feel that? That chill in the air means it’s nearly time for hoodie season in the gym again. Smell that? That means your hoodies from last year need to air out a bit first.

Here’s what we’ve got for you today:

• Quick tips for strength athletes to help shed belly fat.

• Learn the muscle-building techniques behind Mountain Dog training.

• Get a detailed breakdown of how much it costs to compete at the Mr. Olympia.

LIFESTYLE

Torch Belly Fat

If you've embarked on a journey to lose fat before, you may have noticed a frustrating truth: While fat seems to disappear from your face, arms, and legs, it can still stubbornly cling to your belly. This is due to the inherent differences in fat distribution patterns throughout the body.

Genetics, hormones, nutrition, and lifestyle factors contribute to your ability to shed stomach fat. Although spot fat reduction isn't possible, there are strategies to enhance overall fat loss and achieve a trimmer waistline.

It's important to note that excess fat around the midsection poses a greater risk for cardiovascular disease compared to other areas of the body. So, exploring the variables that affect body fat distribution and learning how to eliminate belly fat permanently is crucial — not only for flaunting well-defined abs (though we do support that, too).

TRAINING

All About Mountain Dog

The late John Meadows, also known as "The Mountain Dog," was a legend in the bodybuilding world. He earned his place among the most admired figures in the sport as both a competitor and a coach. His unrivaled ability to build muscle was central to his reputation, and it’s all thanks to a training approach he called "Mountain Dog Training."

This isn't your run-of-the-mill training method like progressive overload or reverse pyramid. Instead, it's a comprehensive system that comprises four distinct phases: pre-pump activation, explosive movements, supramaximal pump, and high-intensity stretching. 

By blending these science-backed principles, Mountain Dog training provides unparalleled support for muscle growth. So, whether you're a beginner or an advanced fitness enthusiast, embrace these techniques to elevate your gains to the next level.

BODYBUILDING

The Cost of Competing

Pursuing the coveted Sandow Trophy comes at a price, and we’re not just talking about the grueling reps and sweat bodybuilders endure to reach the pinnacle of the sport. From tanning oil and personal trainers to nutritionists and posing coaches, these athletes invest serious dough into their bodybuilding journey before stepping into the spotlight.

Curious about how much it costs a professional bodybuilder to actually get to the Olympia? We reached out to two competitors to tally all their expenses, from gym memberships to grocery bills. Is the $400,000 prize money of winning Olympia enough to outweigh these costs?

THE DROPSET

“The Butcher” Withdraws From Olympia

• Men’s Open bodybuilder Brett Wilkin has withdrawn from the 2023 Mr. Olympia. Find out why he’s sitting out the biggest show of the year.

• Jeremy Buendia, the four-time Men's Physique Olympia champion, consumes a massive 6,000 calories on his refeed day. See the cheat day indulgences that help fuel his muscles.

• The dumbbell incline curl brings your biceps through more range of motion than other variations. Learn how to do them properly and find out why you should include them on arm day.