💪 The Best Abs in Bodybuilding History

Remember, if you’re reading this in between sets at the gym, just give your phone a quick wipe afterward. Germs don’t take days off, after all.

Here’s what we’ve got for you today:

• The best abs in bodybuilding history.

• Examining the pros and cons of the flat and incline bench press.

• Thirteen of the healthiest carbs you need in your meal prep plans.

HISTORY

Awe-Inspiring Abs

All physique athletes need a solid set of abs — it’s a virtual prerequisite before stepping on stage. But a select group of bodybuilders went beyond the standard six-pack and crafted midsections that singlehandedly won them shows and helped vault them to icon status.

This is a quality found in greats from the past, including Lou Ferrigno and Frank Zane, all the way to current stars, like Natalia Abraham Coelho and Chris Bumstead.

If you need some inspiration to do extra crunches or cardio when you hit the gym next, look no further than this list of 10 bodybuilders with some of the best abs in the sport’s history.

EXERCISE TIPS

BarBend’s Bench Battle

We all know that Monday is International Chest Day — but which chest staple is in your routine? Is it the time-tested flat bench press, or do you opt for its close cousin, the incline bench press? Maybe you’re the type to throw caution to the wind and do both back to back.

Both exercises make it easy to gauge progress and see consistent results. But if you really want to get the most from them, you need a thorough understanding of what makes these two basic chest-builders different, what unique benefits they each offer, and how to program them into your routine effectively.

If you’re looking to brush up on your bench knowledge, we’re pitting the flat bench vs. the incline bench in the article below.

NUTRITION

Load Up the Right Way

Carbohydrates have been demonized in diet culture for decades now, but it’s important to understand that they are not your enemy. If anything, they’re invaluable in terms of reaching your fitness goals.

To start, there are two main types of carbohydrates: simple carbs and complex carbs. Simple carbs are not unhealthy, but complex carbs may pack more health benefits. Both types supply vital energy for workouts and play a part in gaining strength and muscle mass, sustaining endurance, and recovering from exercise.

*Whew* Got all that? Below, we break down the 13 healthiest carbs to add to your meal prep plan so you can reap all the positive, muscle-building benefits of these misunderstood foods.

THE DROPSET

The 2023 Olympia Takes Shape

• Michal “Križo” Križánek officially qualified for the 2023 Mr. Olympia. Check out the full results from this past weekend’s 2023 Empro Classic Pro.

• Interested in embarking upon a powerlifting routine? See if you’ll actually build muscle along the way.

• Does your pull day need something new to freshen it up? Try the Pendlay row to beef up your traps, rear delts, and rhomboids.

SOUND OFF!

How Do You Bench?