💪 Free Weights vs. Machines? How to Choose Wisely

Here’s what we have for you today: 

• How six-time Classic Physique Olympia champ Chris Bumstead is preparing for his Men’s Open debut 

• The three go-to lat exercises four-time Mr. Olympia Jay Cutler incorporates to build a more imposing physique 

• Legendary bodybuilder Dorian Yates explains the best approach to take when choosing between free weights and machines 

BODYBUILDING 

CBum’s Men’s Open Debut

After clinching six Classic Physique titles, Chris Bumstead exited the 2024 Olympia on a high note. However, shortly after announcing his retirement from the division, he revealed he wasn't ready to hang up his posing trunks completely. Instead, Bumstead plans to try his hands at the Men’s Open division, debuting at the 2024 EVLS Prague Pro on November 16-17 in Prague, Czech Republic.

He’s teamed up with his coach, Hany Rambod, to prepare for his inaugural Men’s Open contest. Under Rambod's guidance, Bumstead is increasing his calories to support the additional muscle mass required to move up in divisions. Check out his high-volume arm workout and the techniques he’s incorporating to regain the weight he lost for the 2024 Olympia.

A MESSAGE FROM BRAD’S DEALS

Where to Find the Best Deals on Hoka Shoes

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Here are the top 8 stores where you can find great deals on Hoka.

TRAINING 

Cut Up Like Cutler

Building broad lat muscles is essential for achieving a more imposing physique, and few bodybuilders have matched Jay Cutler's back width. The four-time Mr. Olympia asserts that the most effective exercises for developing the back are the pull-up, dumbbell row, and dumbbell pullover.

He emphasizes that a wide grip is the optimal variation for pull-ups, as it significantly enhances lat development by increasing the stretch in the lower half of the movement. Discover how to perform each exercise correctly, receive tips from Cutler for maximizing their effectiveness, and explore his reasoning behind these powerful lat-building techniques and exercises.

TRAINING TIPS 

Free Weights vs. Machines 

Opinions on training methods vary among lifters; some advocate for free weights, while others extol the benefits of machines. However, bodybuilding legend Dorian Yates offers a compelling case for both approaches. The six-time Mr. Olympia discusses when to incorporate free weights and when to rely on machines for optimal muscle growth.

For instance, Yates often trained past the point of muscle failure on specific movements, utilizing a spotter to help complete the reps and emphasize the negative phase of the lift. He pointed out that training beyond failure is generally safer using machines than free weights. Explore the research on Yates' claims to help resolve the ongoing debate between free weights and machines.

THE DROP SET 

Build Those Thighs

• Neglecting your hamstrings is a no-no if you want to build the physique of a competitive bodybuilder. Look at legendary bodybuilding trainer Charles Glass’ five leg-building tips to build proportionate quads and hammies. 

• Classic Physique star Wesley Vissers has hired a new coach, his fiance. See how Marly Nooijen is helping Vissers improve his glute and hamstring development. 

• Cable seated rows are an excellent choice for targeting your back without stressing your lower back since they don’t involve a hip hinge. Here’s how to implement them into your programming.