💪 How Strong Was Ronnie Coleman?

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Here’s what we have for you today: 

• A breakdown of the reigning Mr. Olympia Derek Lunsford’s cutting diet for the 2024 Olympia 

• Why the 1975 Olympia remains one of bodybuilding’s most memorable contests decades later

• An in-depth analysis of Ronnie Coleman’s unreal strength

NUTRITION

Mr. Olympia’s Calorie Count

As the countdown to Olympia narrows, contestants are fine-tuning their diets down to the gram, aiming to arrive in Las Vegas this October in peak condition. The current Mr. Olympia, Derek Lunsford, is no different, and he recently shared his meticulous diet plan designed for cutting.

Just months before defending his title, he's strategically consuming 3,346 calories daily, focusing on protein-rich foods like steak and cod, complemented by complex carbs. 

Lunsford also disclosed his comprehensive supplement regimen, highlighting his post-workout shake preferences for whey isolate, Omega 3s, and pre-workouts. His objective is clear: preserving muscle mass while efficiently shedding fat, ensuring his protein intake remains high, and relying on carbs to fuel his rigorous training sessions.

Coming Soon to Your Doorstep: Seasonal Plant-Based Meals from Purple Carrot

Are you sick of the evening scramble to put a tasty and nutritious meal on the table? Purple Carrot has got your back with fully plant-based, chef-crafted meals delivered right to your door.

Purple Carrot offers three time-saving options that let you skip the stress of meal planning and grocery shopping and spend more time doing what matters, whether that’s helping your kids with their homework or squeezing in a quick workout.

Choose from prepared meals that are ready to enjoy in two minutes or less or meal kits featuring delicious recipes with the exact amount of ingredients you need - meaning nothing gets wasted! You can also shop their “plantry” to find a curated selection of plant-based grocery items - perfect for days when you want to get a little more creative in the kitchen.

Can’t pick just one? You don’t have to! Purple Carrot plans are fully customizable. Each week, you can choose from any combination of meal kits, prepared meals, and grocery items.

Plus, if you need a break, you can skip a week or cancel at any time, so your food won't go bad while you head off on a well-deserved vacation.

Now is the perfect time to try Purple Carrot. This summer, they’ve launched 5 new seasonal prepared meals that are light, vibrant, and perfect for enjoying outside or on the go.

Discover the power of delicious, fully plant-based meals. Pick your plan today.

BODYBUILDING

Pulling Back the Curtain 

While Pumping Iron is celebrated for its portrayal of the 1975 Mr. Olympia, it’s also critiqued for its "docudrama" approach, which included embellishments (and certain omissions) of the events.

Beyond the allure of Arnold Schwarzenegger's burgeoning fame, the competition was embroiled in controversies and stories not covered in the film. These included the decision to hold the contest in Apartheid-era South Africa, Schwarzenegger's ambitious pursuit of stardom in Hollywood, and the temporary ban of Serge Nubret amid rumors of his involvement in adult entertainment.

For some, these events cast a shadow over Schwarzenegger's victory, suggesting that there was more behind the scenes than what was depicted in Pumping Iron.

TRAINING 

Coleman’s Strength vs. the World

Eight-time Mr. Olympia winner Ronnie Coleman is renowned as one of the most powerful bodybuilders in history. But just how strong was this mass monster of the late '90s and early 2000s era? Did his 800-pound deadlift measure up to the top strength athletes? And what about squatting 800 pounds for two reps?

A wealth of DVDs and online clips showcase Coleman's remarkable strength. Additionally, anecdotal evidence suggests Coleman could leg press 2,325 pounds for eight reps, bench press 200-pound dumbbells for 12 reps, and perform a T-bar row with 570 pounds for nine reps.

Using these clips and claims as a basis, we've estimated Coleman's maximum lifts in the deadlift, squat, and bench press, comparing them with those of other elite powerlifters and bodybuilders to see how he ranks.

THE DROP SET

C4 Gains

• A registered dietitian reviews the effectiveness of chugging a C4 Energy Drink as a pre-workout.

• Women’s Figure Pro Melissa Brodsky uses four key leg exercises to build monster thighs and dominate her division. Learn coach Joe Bennett’s coaching tips for these quad and hamstring builders. 

• Can you work out too hard, or is more always better? Exercise scientist Dr. Mike Israetel addresses this common fitness query here.