Oak's Rock'em, Sock'em, Master Blaster '09 Season Thread

[AustrianOakJr]

Another one I stumbled upon recently while trying to "mix it up" with my oats.........oats, walden farms strawberry jelly (their jellies are really good for being cal free, btw), and Cool Whip free on top. Makes a "strawberries and cream" oatmeal. Really good.

[AustrianOakJr]

In other news.......I am.......



12 Days Out!!!


Yep. My wife and I talked throughout the weekend (topic of multiple conversations) and we decided that I should go for it. I feel good about it because she seemed to genuinely support me in it.......it wasnt a "yea, do it if you want" type of thing where she doesnt really mean it. So, I feel real good. The one stipulation is that I cant be an ass at home. So, that means no more major calorie deficit. I wont be improving my conditioning. Just hoping to maintain. I feel I slipped a little over the last few days. Basicly sticking to my macros, but sneaking a handful of pretzels or a tootsie roll here and there. Just not 100% focused on what I have to do. So, this is good that I KNOW im doing it.....im going in 100% focused to kill it.

[fltallpaul]

In other news.......I am.......



12 Days Out!!!


Yep. My wife and I talked throughout the weekend (topic of multiple conversations) and we decided that I should go for it. I feel good about it because she seemed to genuinely support me in it.......it wasnt a "yea, do it if you want" type of thing where she doesnt really mean it. So, I feel real good. The one stipulation is that I cant be an ass at home. So, that means no more major calorie deficit. I wont be improving my conditioning. Just hoping to maintain. I feel I slipped a little over the last few days. Basicly sticking to my macros, but sneaking a handful of pretzels or a tootsie roll here and there. Just not 100% focused on what I have to do. So, this is good that I KNOW im doing it.....im going in 100% focused to kill it.

That's great news buddy...kill it for two more weeks, use what you've learned and enjoy. I am doing two shows this year and if there was another one which was near me I would do it as well. I think its great to get on stage as much as possible while in top shape...I personally am taking two years off from the stage if I get my pro card....

Anything your going to change for the peak strategy that you learned from the first two shows?

Also what show is it?

[AustrianOakJr]

That's great news buddy...kill it for two more weeks, use what you've learned and enjoy. I am doing two shows this year and if there was another one which was near me I would do it as well. I think its great to get on stage as much as possible while in top shape...I personally am taking two years off from the stage if I get my pro card....

Anything your going to change for the peak strategy that you learned from the first two shows?

Also what show is it?

I am doing the OCB show in Syracuse Nov 7th.

Same for me......pro card = two yrs off to get BIG. By the looks of your pics, you've got a real shot at it.

Changing things.....yes. Im definately NOT doing things like I did for the INBF. Although I placed the best at the INBF show, I felt I made a dramatic improvement for the NGA show. However, after getting the carbs loaded for the NGA show correctly, I still felt I could have been more aggressive. After eating like a FREAK and spilling over after the show, i woke up very full and tight. So, that tells me that even if I load to the point of spillage, 8 hrs of sleep tightens me up. Not that I plan to load until I spill the day before, I do plan on being more aggressive with my carb load knowing that I process them fast enough that even if I do happen to spill, I shouldnt have a problem reigning it in by noon the next day.

[stayfit2008]

NICE!! If I'm free that weekend I'd like to come out and watch ya! Your whole family coming out again?

[AustrianOakJr]

NICE!! If I'm free that weekend I'd like to come out and watch ya! Your whole family coming out again?

I think they are. My mom and dad live in Syracuse, so its easy for them. Im gonna try and talk Tim (Jimmy_Chitwood) into coming also since he bailed on me for the Olympus. It would be great to have you out.......we can get that wing binge in! Theres a place called Zebbs that has the best garlic wings you'll ever eat. Combine that with one of their huge burgers and its just awesome.

[Blazed]

Oh snap, so you are competing on the 7th after all. Maybe I'll make the 350 mile drive to watch ;)

[AustrianOakJr]

Oh snap, so you are competing on the 7th after all. Maybe I'll make the 350 mile drive to watch ;)

Now that wouldnt be allowed. If you come, you cant NOT compete. Whats that add to your trip another 75 bucks? We'll take up an offering here for you on BB.com. :)

Would be cool to get a bunch of guys together to go pig out!

BTW, that drive isnt so bad. I go to Smithtown all the time. Ive made it from Syracuse in under 5 hrs before. Gotta go 80, to 380 to 81. That and miss all the traffic on the LIE thru the GW bridge and your golden.

[Blazed]

I have Worlds on the 14th so no piggin out for mu-ah!

[AustrianOakJr]

I have Worlds on the 14th so no piggin out for mu-ah!

Well, its a rule in BB'ing that if you do a show, you HAVE to pig out. Its in a book somewhere. :)

I ate like a madman after the INBF show (see pics of me on the floor in restaurant) and came in 1 lb lighter for the NGA Olympus only a week later.

[scoobysnacks]

Nice, glad to see you are going for it one more shot, with a two year layoff coming up, you might as well hit one more while you are ripped.

Good Luck, ill be watching along.

Ss

[AustrianOakJr]

Nice, glad to see you are going for it one more shot, with a two year layoff coming up, you might as well hit one more while you are ripped.

Good Luck, ill be watching along.

Ss

Thanks Scooby.

Well, 2yrs off..... thats a big "If" I win my card.

[Blazed]

Gotta lay off the Valium pancakes.

[J_Bo]

Awesome news, Oak! Now I'm so excited and I just can't hide it :D

[stayfit2008]

Think Lean Oak,....LEAN! Do what ever it takes to come in Dry and Lean,..If I had your physique I wouldn't worry bout losing too much muscle while trying to get shredded. Hey,..did you get your Olympus DVD? It will help eveluate whatever changes you may need to make, if any.

[stayfit2008]

Hey,..I think a guy from my gym is doing that show,.I'll have to ask him,..sounds familiar. He is a pro so he has to do another show to keep his pro status,..it's been about 18 months since he competed. How does that work,..is there a pro catagory in the show? or will he have to compete Open?

[AustrianOakJr]

Gotta lay off the Valium pancakes.

Crap. I look forward to those.


Awesome news, Oak! Now I'm so excited and I just can't hide it :D

Im about to lose control.......and I think I like it! I like it!


Think Lean Oak,....LEAN! Do what ever it takes to come in Dry and Lean,..If I had your physique I wouldn't worry bout losing too much muscle while trying to get shredded. Hey,..did you get your Olympus DVD? It will help eveluate whatever changes you may need to make, if any.

Well, like I said. I dont think ill be coming in any leaner than the Olympus. Cant put my wife through any more of the calorie deficit b/c im miserable. Sounds like a cop out, but this was the deal we made so I gotta honor it. Maybe I can improve upon my dryness, but I think I may be able to improve my overall look best by coming in even fuller. When that muscle gets pushed tight against the skin, it makes such a big difference.


Hey,..I think a guy from my gym is doing that show,.I'll have to ask him,..sounds familiar. He is a pro so he has to do another show to keep his pro status,..it's been about 18 months since he competed. How does that work,..is there a pro catagory in the show? or will he have to compete Open?

I dont think there is a pro category at this one. And I dont see how a pro could compete in the open......unless hes a pro elsewhere and going for the IFPA card.....but that wouldnt help is status in another org.

[Joe Go]

Great news Oak! Good luck with your final show.

[AustrianOakJr]

Great news Oak! Good luck with your final show.

Thanks man.

[J_Bo]

Oh come on, Oak... you can com in a little leaner ;) lol

[ever1964]

Great to hear Oak! That's good news. Sounds like you might have a crew there to root you on. Give it all ya got!

[JimmyChitwood]

I dont think ill be coming in any leaner than the Olympus. Maybe I can improve upon my dryness, but I think I may be able to improve my overall look best by coming in even fuller. When that muscle gets pushed tight against the skin, it makes such a big difference.

And go darker, ya hump. I want to see you looking like you've been tumbled through an asphalt plant. And maybe lightly rinsed with turpentine. You know the look I'm going for... although I'd use more biologically friendly measures. Do what you gotta do though to get this right.

I'll run the date past Coach. I see one conflict already though. We were offered babysitting services for that day/evening by friends, and it would basically be our first date since September 10th. And right now I would call going to the grocery store a date. Give me details on the show and times... maybe a road trip for the day could be our date? Could be a tough sell, I know... but I'm a glutton for hearing myself called a retard. Lately when I come up with bad ideas she just says "I'll pretend you didn't say that." Ha!!

[JimmyChitwood]

Umm... I tried responding to this thread this morning and some message came up saying it would have to be approved by a moderator first?? Still not up yet. It's too bad - it was a good one, and it's still not here. I can't wait to see it... I forgot what I wrote.

[AustrianOakJr]

Umm... I tried responding to this thread this morning and some message came up saying it would have to be approved by a moderator first?? Still not up yet. It's too bad - it was a good one, and it's still not here. I can't wait to see it... I forgot what I wrote.

Think really hard and re-write it. REALLY hard.

[J_Bo]

Think really hard and re-write it. REALLY hard.

lol. I thought I had some good ones lasst night, too, and today I got nothin :(

[Blazed]

See you in 18 days Brah!

[jked4life]

Nice! You got one more in ya. Glad to see you take advantage of it.

[extremenergy3]

Umm... I tried responding to this thread this morning and some message came up saying it would have to be approved by a moderator first?? Still not up yet. It's too bad - it was a good one, and it's still not here. I can't wait to see it... I forgot what I wrote.

lol yeah, those posts are not going to show up :p

[stayfit2008]

I want Butter and Garlic :D

[JimmyChitwood]

Think really hard and re-write it. REALLY hard.


lol. I thought I had some good ones lasst night, too, and today I got nothin :(


lol yeah, those posts are not going to show up :p

I think I said something to the effect that you now have a chance to go DARKER with your color. And I mean "tumbled-through-an-asphalt-plant-and-lightly-rinsed-with-turpentine" darker. Except use something more biologically friendly since it's harder to pose when you're dead. Rigormortis only allows you one pose, so you'd have to make it a good one in that case (I'd suggest the most muscular).


I want Butter and Garlic :D

I hear that works well as a sheen over your tanner. Didn't Kramer try that once??

http://www.johnmariani.com/archive/2006/060611/kramer055.jpg

[AustrianOakJr]

I think I said something to the effect that you now have a chance to go DARKER with your color. And I mean "tumbled-through-an-asphalt-plant-and-lightly-rinsed-with-turpentine" darker. Except use something more biologically friendly since it's harder to pose when you're dead. Rigormortis only allows you one pose, so you'd have to make it a good one in that case (I'd suggest the most muscular).

]

Im laughing right now.....out loud. As in "L.O.L". No, really. That was funny.

I will be darker. Im gonna try to get some more color with the Pro-Tan as FltallPaul has suggested. Im gonna try like 4-5 coats of that crap and one coat of dream tan. Then, maybe some black krylon if that doesnt work.

[fltallpaul]

Im laughing right now.....out loud. As in "L.O.L". No, really. That was funny.

I will be darker. Im gonna try to get some more color with the Pro-Tan as FltallPaul has suggested. Im gonna try like 4-5 coats of that crap and one coat of dream tan. Then, maybe some black krylon if that doesnt work.

Keep putting on layers of Pro Tan until you start to think you look ridiculous...then put one two more...that's how it was explained to me...lol. I did feel ridiculous but when I was on stage everyone told me I looked good....those lights are crazy, and if you are the lightest guy on stage it can be distracting...

[AustrianOakJr]

Keep putting on layers of Pro Tan until you start to think you look ridiculous...then put one two more...that's how it was explained to me...lol. I did feel ridiculous but when I was on stage everyone told me I looked good....those lights are crazy, and if you are the lightest guy on stage it can be distracting...

Thats pretty much what I did with the dream tan this last time. 2 coats of pro-tan followed by 3 coats of DT and I felt REALLY dark.......but still not dark enough. Not that I thought I was way too light, like last year.....it was definate improvement. But I think going with more protan and less DT will be better for me....less cakey, but still get the nice finish of the dream tan.

[J_Bo]

Thats pretty much what I did with the dream tan this last time. 2 coats of pro-tan followed by 3 coats of DT and I felt REALLY dark.......but still not dark enough. Not that I thought I was way too light, like last year.....it was definate improvement. But I think going with more protan and less DT will be better for me....less cakey, but still get the nice finish of the dream tan.

Man, the tanning is not something I'm looking forward to!

[stayfit2008]

Oak,..If ya want my recipe for dark tan,..hit me up,..I got it from Bill and have always been the darkest on stage,..Tanning is not an issue ,..let me know my man!

[AustrianOakJr]

Man, the tanning is not something I'm looking forward to!

Yea, you and I have the same issue.....


Oak,..If ya want my recipe for dark tan,..hit me up,..I got it from Bill and have always been the darkest on stage,..Tanning is not an issue ,..let me know my man!

Yea, shoot me a PM. Thanks! I dont know if ill be up for buying a bunch of new product (ive already got a bottle of protan and two tubs of dream tan.....and that stuff is expensive), but id like to hear what you got so it will at least be an option.....

[J_Bo]

Since I am partially hispanic, and do tan very well in real life :D do you guys think there would be any benefit to getting myself tan before using tanners, since I might be able to get a different hue with my natural tan?

I know in my pics I'm white as a ghost, but that's because I don't tan at all, but If I do, I get a pretty good one going.

Or should I just stay away from the beds and just use the tanners?

[JimmyChitwood]

Im laughing right now.....out loud. As in "L.O.L". No, really. That was funny.

I will be darker. Im gonna try to get some more color with the Pro-Tan as FltallPaul has suggested. Im gonna try like 4-5 coats of that crap and one coat of dream tan. Then, maybe some black krylon if that doesnt work.

Well, as funny as that was, I hope you'll put some of my suggestions into practice. And maybe try the butter and garlic routine that Stayfit suggests. At least that'll smell better than hot stuff.

[stayfit2008]

I tried Hot stuff and the Jan Tana Glaze,..The Hot stuff,..tho i love the smell,..makes me look like a red Lobster. The glaze doesn't mess with my tanner.

[fltallpaul]

Since I am partially hispanic, and do tan very well in real life :D do you guys think there would be any benefit to getting myself tan before using tanners, since I might be able to get a different hue with my natural tan?

I know in my pics I'm white as a ghost, but that's because I don't tan at all, but If I do, I get a pretty good one going.

Or should I just stay away from the beds and just use the tanners?

There is a huge benefit to getting tan in real life...I know it helps me as I get really dark..I am tanning right now every day. The darker your skin the better the tanners will take...think of it as primer. However, if tanning does not make you darker then I wouldn't bother. Look at Dennis Wolf...white as hell and doesn't even bother with tanning...then there is Jay who tans daily leading up to a show.

Plus I think you will find that as you get into better condition a tan will help accentuate that...I know I enjoy being a bit darker.

[AustrianOakJr]

There is a huge benefit to getting tan in real life...I know it helps me as I get really dark..I am tanning right now every day. The darker your skin the better the tanners will take...think of it as primer. However, if tanning does not make you darker then I wouldn't bother. Look at Dennis Wolf...white as hell and doesn't even bother with tanning...then there is Jay who tans daily leading up to a show.

Plus I think you will find that as you get into better condition a tan will help accentuate that...I know I enjoy being a bit darker.

Yea, I basically just burn when I tan. I can add a shade or two if I stick to 10 min in the booth, but not enough to really help anything.

[AustrianOakJr]

So, I got home and my professional pics were in the mail box. I was real excited and ran up stairs to take a look..........and I gotta say I am pretty disappointed. Now, you would expect that THE professional photographer, there as the one and only "official" photographer would have a decent view of the stage......especially when the promotors were making guests put away cameras that they deemed "too good" to take amateur pics. I guess not at the NGA Olympus. IMOP, these pics are horrible......and im posting the best of the best. They are all taken from the far side of the stage, making comparisons between competitors impossible. That, and the the simple fact that you hit your poses with the center stage as your frame of reference for symetry and balance in your angles. Then, with all my night show pics he has the bad angle coupled with the fact that he was snapping most of the pics just a second before I actually squeezed the pose out. Total bummer. They are the only high res shots I have and they're all off at a retarded angle. I hope the next show has a good photographer.....or maybe ill rent a good camera or something. I havent really got any decent shots from this season yet......one more show though!

Heres my famous most muscular where I happened to have rotated in the right direction and he caught it!

.
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg123/AustrianOakJr/6a6d7c88.jpg
.



Decent ab shot:

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http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg123/AustrianOakJr/403927cd.jpg

.


Most every pics from the night show is like this though.......I love this pose and when its from straight on, it looks like I stole it from Arnold.....oh wait, I did. From this angle it looks like im taking a dump on stage.

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http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg123/AustrianOakJr/790279ad.jpg


.
Aaaaaarrrrghhhhhh!!!!!!

.

[AustrianOakJr]

Heres some pre-judging shots. Look, theres me............waaaaaaay down at the end!!!! Helloooooo down there!!!!! Great angle for comparisons, here. Great.

Can you tell im a bit irked? :)

.

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg123/AustrianOakJr/03b05ae9.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg123/AustrianOakJr/9f1efc9a.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg123/AustrianOakJr/d9e97756.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg123/AustrianOakJr/7cdcf29d.jpg

[J_Bo]

WOW. That sucks, bro! That makes no sense that they would have the "official" photagrapher in a place where he can't even get a view of the comparisons...

[AustrianOakJr]

WOW. That sucks, bro! That makes no sense that they would have the "official" photagrapher in a place where he can't even get a view of the comparisons...

Yea. No sense at all.

Here's a few more.......some zoomed in for a little better look, but still a bad angle.

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg123/AustrianOakJr/3f545705.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg123/AustrianOakJr/bf76eba0.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg123/AustrianOakJr/62827c33.jpg
.


I like this one b/c I look like im gonna go nutso right on stage!

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http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg123/AustrianOakJr/28a78edd.jpg

[stayfit2008]

I like this one b/c I look like im gonna go nutso right on stage!

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http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg123/AustrianOakJr/28a78edd.jpg

I can see you dropping into a Combat Roll on top of the Judges Table!!! Huawwww!!

[stayfit2008]

Lucky me,..My gym administrator came to the show and took tons of straight on shots of the masters. I'll check if she got some of me in the open. From what I could tell,.the pics were high quality and straight on shots!

[AustrianOakJr]

Lucky me,..My gym administrator came to the show and took tons of straight on shots of the masters. I'll check if she got some of me in the open. From what I could tell,.the pics were high quality and straight on shots!

Yea, LMK. Id love to have some straight on shots. Thanks man.

[jked4life]

Thats pretty much what I did with the dream tan this last time. 2 coats of pro-tan followed by 3 coats of DT and I felt REALLY dark.......but still not dark enough. Not that I thought I was way too light, like last year.....it was definate improvement. But I think going with more protan and less DT will be better for me....less cakey, but still get the nice finish of the dream tan.

Speaking from the perspective of the INBF show, you looked REALLY dark when we were sitting in the stands hagning out. When you got up there, I was amazed how much lighter you looked. It really hit me at that point how brutal lighting on those stages is.

[JimmyChitwood]

I tried Hot stuff and the Jan Tana Glaze,..The Hot stuff,..tho i love the smell,..makes me look like a red Lobster. The glaze doesn't mess with my tanner.

Just from reading around, this seems like the route I would try first (even though there are many here that prefer the dream tan/pro tan route). Jan Tana just seems like a pretty simple way to go... and it seems to work pretty well for Jay. Besides, I like the idea of being glazed. Just like a donut. Mmmm... donuts.


There is a huge benefit to getting tan in real life...I know it helps me as I get really dark..I am tanning right now every day. The darker your skin the better the tanners will take...think of it as primer. However, if tanning does not make you darker then I wouldn't bother. Look at Dennis Wolf...white as hell and doesn't even bother with tanning...then there is Jay who tans daily leading up to a show.

Plus I think you will find that as you get into better condition a tan will help accentuate that...I know I enjoy being a bit darker.

I think I would tan first personally, but mostly because I just like the way I feel when I'm not blinding white all the time. But like you say, there are plenty of competitors that start white as ghosts and look great. Seems that a good product used right will get you there either way.


So, I got home and my professional pics were in the mail box. I was real excited and ran up stairs to take a look..........and I gotta say I am pretty disappointed....

I started to read this post and thought "oh man, he's really becoming a whiner now" but I have to say I would be a bit bummed with those shots too. Nice quality photos though. But the competitors put in a lot of work preparing for this, and the way you look on stage in photos is the only thing you really get to keep from the whole thing. Bummer to not get the angle captured in which you were presenting your physique at its best. Now I feel double poor for not making it to the show. I love taking quality photos, and this new camera I've got kicks some butt. Maybe next year. Your wife is a photo guru - can she get some good ones at the Syracuse show??

I remember last year's Olympus they had a guy come out on stage to test lighting, etc. That's when I set up all my camera settings to get the focus, shutter speed, aperature, etc all right. Tell the wife to get the camera all set up before the show starts or test it on some of the first competitors so she's ready to rock when you come out.

Aside - I like the "I'm gonna go nutso" shot as well as the dumping on stage shot. Doser kewl.

[AustrianOakJr]

I started to read this post and thought "oh man, he's really becoming a whiner now" but I have to say I would be a bit bummed with those shots too. Nice quality photos though. But the competitors put in a lot of work preparing for this, and the way you look on stage in photos is the only thing you really get to keep from the whole thing. Bummer to not get the angle captured in which you were presenting your physique at its best. Now I feel double poor for not making it to the show. I love taking quality photos, and this new camera I've got kicks some butt. Maybe next year. Your wife is a photo guru - can she get some good ones at the Syracuse show??

I remember last year's Olympus they had a guy come out on stage to test lighting, etc. That's when I set up all my camera settings to get the focus, shutter speed, aperature, etc all right. Tell the wife to get the camera all set up before the show starts or test it on some of the first competitors so she's ready to rock when you come out.

Aside - I like the "I'm gonna go nutso" shot as well as the dumping on stage shot. Doser kewl.

Maybe im a whiner. But, like you say......it just sucks to put in the work and not have good shots as the thing you really get to keep from that day. It would be a similar feeling as the photographer screwing up your wedding photos.....but the bb'ing thing obviously on a lesser scale. Im not crying myself to sleep at night, but thats what these blogs are for.....to get pissed when your pissed. Right? Oh well.

I did send an email to the photographer to express my disappointment. In his defense he said that it was the promotor of the show that insisted that he be off on the side. He recognized the folly in this plan, but had no choice. The only beef I had with him is that he should have made it known to competitors that their pics were not going to be straight on.

Well, for the Syracuse show, YOU CAN come out and snap some high quality pics. Ill need you there for that. Our camera is a decent one for shooting basic stuff, but it just doesnt have the resolution needed for that kind of distance and lighting. The pics I posted previously are from that camera. Theyre OK, but not great. These professional pics, I can zoom in and see the grainy-ness of the muscle fiber. Cant do that with a point and shoot.

[Whomper107]

That sucks about the pictures Oak... I would be pretty disappointed too. You should definitely express your sentiments to the promoter, it was a pretty poor decision on his part to stick the photographer off in the middle of no where like that. Regardless, a few bad pictures can't hide hard work - you looked great up there.

[AustrianOakJr]

That sucks about the pictures Oak... I would be pretty disappointed too. You should definitely express your sentiments to the promoter, it was a pretty poor decision on his part to stick the photographer off in the middle of no where like that. Regardless, a few bad pictures can't hide hard work - you looked great up there.

Thanks man. I appreciate that. Ill be expressing my sentiments in regards to the show as a whole to the promotor.

[RooRooTJ]

Damn Oak I need some guns like that. Ridiculous. Awesome job

[aguy fish]

I know what you feel regarding the photods. you look great but the angle sucks. That happened to me in my last show and I was very disapointed too. You looked great though, huge arms! Good luck for your next show!

[AustrianOakJr]

Damn Oak I need some guns like that. Ridiculous. Awesome job


I know what you feel regarding the photods. you look great but the angle sucks. That happened to me in my last show and I was very disapointed too. You looked great though, huge arms! Good luck for your next show!

Thank you guys. I felt like I peaked pretty well. But im aiming to be a bit more full and dry for this last one.


Got a couple more that I did some work with zooming and cropping. That is one saving grace of these pics.....you can zoom way in and not lose any quality. So, I can crop myself out and make a decent stand alone shot.

I am pretty happy with these pics.

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http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg123/AustrianOakJr/abc1e429.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg123/AustrianOakJr/c5712e07.jpg

[ever1964]

Those are some nice shots Oak. Arms are incredible! Concerning the color, I followed Chris' plan and used the Jan Tana Competition pack. I also got an extra bottle of color, but didn't come near needing it, so I have plenty for another show. I did the following:

Tuesday morning shower: Exfoliate, apply moisturizer
Wedneday morning shower: Exfoliate, apply moisturizer
Early Thursday night shower: Exfoliate; Apply one coat of color, rinse before bed
Early Friday morning: Apply one coat of color, rinse 3 hours later
Friday night: Apply one coat of color, no rinse
Early Saturday morning: one coat of color, no rinse
At comp, apply glaze prior to pre-judging and refresh prior to evening show

I was darker than the majority of the competitors and they seemed to lean toward Dream Tan and the promoter was spraying them with Pam. I did not allow them to spray me since the Jan Tana instructions specify not to do it.

[J_Bo]

I just wanted to throw this out there, Oak:


Last year vs. this year


http://bodyspace.bodybuilding.com/img/user_images/growable/2008/11/04/112506/progresspic/2178292.jpg http://bodyspace.bodybuilding.com/img/user_images/growable/2009/10/30/112506/progresspic/18iBuc56LvpdElt3EeFtRV1aVNYhj1878p.jpeg

[AustrianOakJr]

Those are some nice shots Oak. Arms are incredible! Concerning the color, I followed Chris' plan and used the Jan Tana Competition pack. I also got an extra bottle of color, but didn't come near needing it, so I have plenty for another show. I did the following:

Tuesday morning shower: Exfoliate, apply moisturizer
Wedneday morning shower: Exfoliate, apply moisturizer
Early Thursday night shower: Exfoliate; Apply one coat of color, rinse before bed
Early Friday morning: Apply one coat of color, rinse 3 hours later
Friday night: Apply one coat of color, no rinse
Early Saturday morning: one coat of color, no rinse
At comp, apply glaze prior to pre-judging and refresh prior to evening show

I was darker than the majority of the competitors and they seemed to lean toward Dream Tan and the promoter was spraying them with Pam. I did not allow them to spray me since the Jan Tana instructions specify not to do it.

Thanks for the advices! :) Yes, Chris sent me the protocol. I would love to give it a shot.....and I may. The only problem is that im three shows in now and the season has cost me a ton just in entry fees, polygraphs, membership cards, prep coach.....and I bought a bunch of pro-tan and dream tan already (which is not cheap). Not to mention supps. Might seem trivial at this point to spend another 50 bucks on tanner stuff, but spendible income has dried up. If I can swing it, ill try it. If not, ill give it a shot next year. Im leaning towards a whole crap load of pro tan coats and one single dream tan coat.


I just wanted to throw this out there, Oak:


Last year vs. this year


http://bodyspace.bodybuilding.com/img/user_images/growable/2008/11/04/112506/progresspic/2178292.jpg http://bodyspace.bodybuilding.com/img/user_images/growable/2009/10/30/112506/progresspic/18iBuc56LvpdElt3EeFtRV1aVNYhj1878p.jpeg


Thanks J-Bo. Ive been meaning to do some side by side comparisons and havent had the time. That shows some improvement there. I guess the most noticeble thing is the increase in hardness and the color improvement, but it looks like I added a little bit of size to my chest. I actually forgot about that divit in the middle of my chest that I had last year that used to bother me. Filled it in a bit!

[AustrianOakJr]

Now you got me started.

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg123/AustrianOakJr/5ba49f8e.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg123/AustrianOakJr/abc1e429.jpg

[J_Bo]

Thanks J-Bo. Ive been meaning to do some side by side comparisons and havent had the time. That shows some improvement there. I guess the most noticeble thing is the increase in hardness and the color improvement, but it looks like I added a little bit of size to my chest. I actually forgot about that divit in the middle of my chest that I had last year that used to bother me. Filled it in a bit!

Definitely a very noticeable improvement in hardness. But you're right, this shows how big of a role color plays....and yours was quite a lot better this year.

[jked4life]

Big improvement in the color this year. It's also really noticable how much leaner you were this year with those side by side pics. Big improvements!!

[ever1964]

Thanks for the advices! :) Yes, Chris sent me the protocol. I would love to give it a shot.....and I may. The only problem is that im three shows in now and the season has cost me a ton just in entry fees, polygraphs, membership cards, prep coach.....and I bought a bunch of pro-tan and dream tan already (which is not cheap). Not to mention supps. Might seem trivial at this point to spend another 50 bucks on tanner stuff, but spendible income has dried up. If I can swing it, ill try it. If not, ill give it a shot next year. Im leaning towards a whole crap load of pro tan coats and one single dream tan coat.


Not trivial at all. I understand about the $$$. That is the main reason why I only did one comp. None were close to me, and the cost of travel was prohibitive. And let's not get started about the investment in supps.

[AustrianOakJr]

Definitely a very noticeable improvement in hardness. But you're right, this shows how big of a role color plays....and yours was quite a lot better this year.

Hopefully ill be able to improve it further for this last one.


Big improvement in the color this year. It's also really noticable how much leaner you were this year with those side by side pics. Big
improvements!!

Thanks man. Im trying!


Not trivial at all. I understand about the $$$. That is the main reason why I only did one comp. None were close to me, and the cost of travel was prohibitive. And let's not get started about the investment in supps.

Yea, luckily the first show was in my home town.......the second one we got a priceline deal on the holiday inn for 45 bucks for the night (inc breakfast!), and this next one is in my parents neck of the woods so we'll be staying there. Travel hasnt been too bad, but the whole three different orgs is a real pain b/c its 3 cards, 3 polys, and 3 entry fees. Killer.

[aguy fish]

Thank you guys. I felt like I peaked pretty well. But im aiming to be a bit more full and dry for this last one.


Got a couple more that I did some work with zooming and cropping. That is one saving grace of these pics.....you can zoom way in and not lose any quality. So, I can crop myself out and make a decent stand alone shot.

I am pretty happy with these pics.

.

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg123/AustrianOakJr/abc1e429.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg123/AustrianOakJr/c5712e07.jpg

AMAZING ARMS ! Congrats bro !

[debrovnik]

Holy sh!t @ bicep! :eek:

[AustrianOakJr]

Holy sh!t @ bicep! :eek:


AMAZING ARMS ! Congrats bro !

Thank you...unfortunately, I gotta give them a break. I think ive got a minor tear in the right bicep tendon. I was doing light preachers on friday and I could feel it clicking near the joint and sure enough I look down and could actually see something popping under the skin on every rep. I havent been able to use heavy weight for curls in a few weeks and as soon as the comp is over, ill be eliminating direct bicep training until it feels better.

Anyone know (if it is a tear in the tendon), will it heal naturally or is that something in need of surgery to reattach?

[stayfit2008]

Thank you...unfortunately, I gotta give them a break. I think ive got a minor tear in the right bicep tendon. I was doing light preachers on friday and I could feel it clicking near the joint and sure enough I look down and could actually see something popping under the skin on every rep. I havent been able to use heavy weight for curls in a few weeks and as soon as the comp is over, ill be eliminating direct bicep training until it feels better.

Anyone know (if it is a tear in the tendon), will it heal naturally or is that something in need of surgery to reattach?

You talking about the Bicep Tendon attached to the shoulder joint? If so,..I am recovering from this as well. I may have mentioned I was going to get it looked at after the Olympus. Well my Dr. doesn't feel it's anything worse than tendonitis,..was reffered to a PT and he concluded, w/out and Xray yet, it is the Bicep tendon. There are two,..one that wraps around the collar bone, and another that attached to the shoulder. The treatment is,..staying off it for a cpl weeks,..PT sessions three times a week which involve three types of deep heating, you know,..that stimulated stuff, infra red, electrode,...I was also given a Decadron shot,..type of Cortisal in the area for inflamation and also on perscribed inflamatories.

It feels better and I can make stretching movements that I couldnt before. Once I get the go ahead,..I'm going to get back into shoulder, chest and bicep training starting arounf 70%

I think I will get and Xray hopefully to rule out anything worse.

[AustrianOakJr]

^^ No, its bothering me near where it attaches at the forearm.

Good that its nothing too serious for you. A few weeks off isnt the worst thing in the world. And you can still train everthing else.

[stayfit2008]

^^ No, its bothering me near where it attaches at the forearm.

Good that its nothing too serious for you. A few weeks off isnt the worst thing in the world. And you can still train everthing else.

Then really take it easy on the forearm,..a friend of mine in the O35 section had a similar injury to yours and has been off for months. Be extra careful! Your arms are big fortunately so you can train light with these and still come in tight. Think LEAN ! :) You feeling good for next week?

[Ian_B]

Hit a biceps shot and post a pic if you can. It'll help narrow it down a bit - may be a tendon tear or a forearm strain. Could be a tear of the actual muscle off the tendon but that would be a little more obvious.

[aguy fish]

^^ No, its bothering me near where it attaches at the forearm.

Good that its nothing too serious for you. A few weeks off isnt the worst thing in the world. And you can still train everthing else.

I had the same last year when i prepped. the physiotherapist massaged me very hard twice a week then I iced it as often as I could with some healing cream too. I also stretch as often as possible and it really helped !

[AustrianOakJr]

Then really take it easy on the forearm,..a friend of mine in the O35 section had a similar injury to yours and has been off for months. Be extra careful! Your arms are big fortunately so you can train light with these and still come in tight. Think LEAN ! :) You feeling good for next week?


Hit a biceps shot and post a pic if you can. It'll help narrow it down a bit - may be a tendon tear or a forearm strain. Could be a tear of the actual muscle off the tendon but that would be a little more obvious.


I had the same last year when i prepped. the physiotherapist massaged me very hard twice a week then I iced it as often as I could with some healing cream too. I also stretch as often as possible and it really helped !

Yea, im not super worried about it. It really only hurts when I pile the weight on the bar. Im done with heavy training as of saturday anyways. Ill be depleting at about 70% and will just knock the bicep specific movements down to about 50% and all will be good for the show. Beyond that, I think some rest and stretching will be good for it.

[stayfit2008]

Yea, im not super worried about it. It really only hurts when I pile the weight on the bar. Im done with heavy training as of saturday anyways. Ill be depleting at about 70% and will just knock the bicep specific movements down to about 50% and all will be good for the show. Beyond that, I think some rest and stretching will be good for it.

Hey sean,..I think you are very smart competing in these organizations. I think they real like the physique you bring to tha platform.

[Ian_B]

Do you do a lot of straight barbell curls?

[AustrianOakJr]

Hey sean,..I think you are very smart competing in these organizations. I think they real like the physique you bring to tha platform.

I hope so!


Do you do a lot of straight barbell curls?

I do my fair share of heavy, straight bars. This is usually my one heavy movement for my biceps and usually include cheats.....usually do 3 sets every other week. On the opposite weeks, I rotate a different heavy move in....often heavy single arm DB curls. I also do a lot of preachers.

[JimmyChitwood]

Oak,
Those latest quality shots you posted are insanely awesome. Amazing hardness and detail. Vascularity is way up. The side chest is nuts - shredded wheat framed by massive arms and delts. Who knew that a fat garbage man physique was hiding all of this? :D
Seriously though - you've done some quality work. You are the real deal.

On the bicep thing - I knew another guy that had the same thing happen. He was 78 years old, though. His bicep tore clean off at the forearm and came rolling up his arm like a window shade. So don't do that. OK? That took some surgery - I think they ended up drilling a hole in the forearm bone and pulling the tendon through it and basically tying a knot or something equally crude to hold it in place. Could be cool to get this done, though since you might be able to specify the insertion point to the surgeon to maximize leverage in the gym.

[AustrianOakJr]

Oak,
Those latest quality shots you posted are insanely awesome. Amazing hardness and detail. Vascularity is way up. The side chest is nuts - shredded wheat framed by massive arms and delts. Who knew that a fat garbage man physique was hiding all of this? :D
Seriously though - you've done some quality work. You are the real deal.

On the bicep thing - I knew another guy that had the same thing happen. He was 78 years old, though. His bicep tore clean off at the forearm and came rolling up his arm like a window shade. So don't do that. OK? That took some surgery - I think they ended up drilling a hole in the forearm bone and pulling the tendon through it and basically tying a knot or something equally crude to hold it in place. Could be cool to get this done, though since you might be able to specify the insertion point to the surgeon to maximize leverage in the gym.

Thanks sucka. The cool thing is that I can morph back and forth between garbage man and bodybuilder at will. I thought about doing the garbage man thing for halloween, but then with the show coming up and all......

Thanks for comparing my biceps to your 78 yr old friend. I am slightly concerned about rolling it up, but im hoping it just fixes itself. However, the possibility of added leverage is tempting except I would feel the need to have the surgery done to both arms.....wouldnt want to have to load up up the EZ curl with uneven weight.

[AustrianOakJr]

Update on the progress.................

Been maintaining a steady 166 lbs for the past 2 weeks. I started water loading yesterday so I expect the weight to drop a bit within the next two to three days. Right now im feeling pretty good b/c my carbs have come up a bit and have been basically sitting at maintenance. Im expecting that good feeling to end by tomorrow as I have dumped a good chunk of carbs and will begin the first of three depletion workouts today. Im already really quite flat, so im gonna be very depleted and primed for the load coming up. I havent talked to Tommy yet, so I havent settled on any numbers, but im thinking of increasing my carbs by 100g each day of my load for a little more fullness than even my last show (which means i'll make a nice pan of baked oatmeal :)). I felt good and full at the Olympus, but I think I can push the envelope a little more without really worrying too much about spilling. Should be interesting.......time is closing in and im getting pretty pumped!

[J_Bo]

Yeah Buddy!

[RooRooTJ]

Nice. time to bring it all together again. Really interested in how you fill out this time with some more carbs.

[AustrianOakJr]

Really interested in how you fill out this time with some more carbs.

For me, its very dramatic. The difference between flat and full is huge for my physique. These pics were taken one week apart at the two different shows.......first one I felt pretty flat, the second about 80% full.....much harder and more vascular.

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg123/AustrianOakJr/mm-1.jpg http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg123/AustrianOakJr/mm2.jpg

[liftjunkie06]

Update on the progress.................

Been maintaining a steady 166 lbs for the past 2 weeks. I started water loading yesterday so I expect the weight to drop a bit within the next two to three days. Right now im feeling pretty good b/c my carbs have come up a bit and have been basically sitting at maintenance. Im expecting that good feeling to end by tomorrow as I have dumped a good chunk of carbs and will begin the first of three depletion workouts today. Im already really quite flat, so im gonna be very depleted and primed for the load coming up. I havent talked to Tommy yet, so I havent settled on any numbers, but im thinking of increasing my carbs by 100g each day of my load for a little more fullness than even my last show (which means i'll make a nice pan of baked oatmeal :)). I felt good and full at the Olympus, but I think I can push the envelope a little more without really worrying too much about spilling. Should be interesting.......time is closing in and im getting pretty pumped!



still eating the baked oatmeal I see? :D

[debrovnik]

You can definately see the change in vascularity - looking awesome! Chest is seriously think!

[AustrianOakJr]

still eating the baked oatmeal I see? :D

Unlike most people, the oatmeal really sits well with me when I carb up......I dont get as gassy and bloated. The baked oats is a great way to take it with me on the run. Just cut it into squares and put it in a tupperwear container. After the show, im gonna start playing with your recipe a bit.......im gonna try a peanut butter version.......and maybe even a chocolate chip peanut butter version. Yee haw!


You can definately see the change in vascularity - looking awesome! Chest is seriously think!

Thanks man. It is pretty noticeable.....so its real important for me to figure out how to time the carbs and everything just right.

[RooRooTJ]

For me, its very dramatic. The difference between flat and full is huge for my physique. These pics were taken one week apart at the two different shows.......first one I felt pretty flat, the second about 80% full.....much harder and more vascular.

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg123/AustrianOakJr/mm-1.jpg http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg123/AustrianOakJr/mm2.jpg

If that is only 80% then your competition better watch out when you get 100% full.

[stayfit2008]

Damm Oak,..you gotta Nasty MM!

[J_Bo]

Damm Oak,..you gotta Nasty MM!

yeah he do!

[JimmyChitwood]

You can definately see the change in vascularity - looking awesome! Chest is seriously think!

debrovnik, you are the king. I see you are still sporting the fairy wings and pink sparkles from like a year ago when you lost your friendly wager to Stayfit. That is awesome! Ha! :D


For me, its very dramatic. The difference between flat and full is huge for my physique. These pics were taken one week apart at the two different shows.......first one I felt pretty flat, the second about 80% full.....much harder and more vascular.


I can barely tell the difference. :eek:

[AustrianOakJr]

If that is only 80% then your competition better watch out when you get 100% full.

Well, 100% really only comes after tanking up on about 3 lbs of wings, pizza, soda, and ice cream after the show.....right before I spill over and look like a fat, bloated whale. So, we wont be pushing those limits on show day......but id like to see 90% anyways!! He he.


debrovnik, you are the king. I see you are still sporting the fairy wings and pink sparkles from like a year ago when you lost your friendly wager to Stayfit. That is awesome! Ha! :D
:

Much respect earned by this man. Loving the fairy wings!

[rich55]

Awesome job Oak! You are looking dense, conditioned and on point. Nice job on the improvements!! Looking back on your before pictures, you look like a totally different person. And yes, flat is not fun for the natty.

[AustrianOakJr]

Awesome job Oak! You are looking dense, conditioned and on point. Nice job on the improvements!! Looking back on your before pictures, you look like a totally different person. And yes, flat is not fun for the natty.

Thanks Rich....I appreciate the kind words. After the next two days, I dont think ill come in flat for this last one. Looking forward to start slamming some carbs tomorrow.

[AustrianOakJr]

OK......lets see. This has been a tough week. I've been water loading and depleting for the past 3 days. Dropped another pound and I expect another 1/2 lb tomorrow morning but we shall see. This afternoon I felt like death and had several people at work asking if I was sick.....probably the most depleted I have been. I guess 21 weeks of dieting will do that to a man. Im gonna hit the gym tomorrow at 6AM for one last full body depletion circuit and then start POUNDING carbs. Im getting excited just thinking about it.

The menu for tomorrow is:
-8 servings of "Cookie Crunch" cereal
-5 rice cakes
-5 POUNDS of fat free garlic and chedder mashed potatoes ( I should take a pic of this container of potatos.....my wife says "Youre gonna eat ALL that in ONE DAY?")
-1 Pound of home made baked french (un)fries
-1.5 servings of peaut butter
-1.5 servings of whey protein
-2 gallons of water

Macros are 165P / 698C / 35F

Fridays menu will be a lot more potatoes and some chicken......tapering down to 400g of carbs......depending on how I look, might be a little less.

Im getting pumped.

[DavidKH]

OK......lets see. This has been a tough week. I've been water loading and depleting for the past 3 days. Dropped another pound and I expect another 1/2 lb tomorrow morning but we shall see. This afternoon I felt like death and had several people at work asking if I was sick.....probably the most depleted I have been. I guess 21 weeks of dieting will do that to a man. Im gonna hit the gym tomorrow at 6AM for one last full body depletion circuit and then start POUNDING carbs. Im getting excited just thinking about it.

The menu for tomorrow is:
-8 servings of "Cookie Crunch" cereal
-5 rice cakes
-5 POUNDS of fat free garlic and chedder mashed potatoes ( I should take a pic of this container of potatos.....my wife says "Youre gonna eat ALL that in ONE DAY?")
-1 Pound of home made baked french (un)fries
-1.5 servings of peaut butter
-1.5 servings of whey protein
-2 gallons of water

Macros are 165P / 698C / 35F

Fridays menu will be a lot more potatoes and some chicken......tapering down to 400g of carbs......depending on how I look, might be a little less.

Im getting pumped.

WOW 700 CARBS....I hope you dont fly away

[Quelly]

ok......lets see. This has been a tough week. I've been water loading and depleting for the past 3 days. Dropped another pound and i expect another 1/2 lb tomorrow morning but we shall see. This afternoon i felt like death and had several people at work asking if i was sick.....probably the most depleted i have been. I guess 21 weeks of dieting will do that to a man. Im gonna hit the gym tomorrow at 6am for one last full body depletion circuit and then start pounding carbs. Im getting excited just thinking about it.

The menu for tomorrow is:
-8 servings of "cookie crunch" cereal
-5 rice cakes
-5 pounds of fat free garlic and chedder mashed potatoes ( i should take a pic of this container of potatos.....my wife says "youre gonna eat all that in one day?")
-1 pound of home made baked french (un)fries
-1.5 servings of peaut butter
-1.5 servings of whey protein
-2 gallons of water

macros are 165p / 698c / 35f

fridays menu will be a lot more potatoes and some chicken......tapering down to 400g of carbs......depending on how i look, might be a little less.

Im getting pumped.

siiiick

[AustrianOakJr]

WOW 700 CARBS....I hope you dont fly away

Total over two days will only be 1100.......200g more than the Olympus, so thats not a TON more, but hopefully enough for a liiiitle extra fullness.


siiiick

He he!

[AustrianOakJr]

Dropped another pound and I expect another 1/2 lb tomorrow morning but we shall see. .

Well, I was expecting 1/2 lb and got 1.5 lbs.

I dont know what that means except that I am 1/2 lb lighter than the Olympus......AND at my all time lightest weight since I dont even know when (high school or something - 162.5lbs). Hopefully, that water or fat! I guess I really AM depleted. Time to EAT!

[stayfit2008]

Well, I was expecting 1/2 lb and got 1.5 lbs.

I dont know what that means except that I am 1/2 lb lighter than the Olympus......AND at my all time lightest weight since I dont even know when (high school or something - 162.5lbs). Hopefully, that water or fat! I guess I really AM depleted. Time to EAT!

Hey Sean,..did you deplete yourself from all carbs? or just reduce the carb intake but still consumed some carbs?

This is the exciting part of the prep,..sometimes the most difficult trying to cram huge quantities of carbs back in the body! Have many healthy Dumps from here on out :)

[RooRooTJ]

So are we gonna get some pics of before the show this time?

[AustrianOakJr]

Hey Sean,..did you deplete yourself from all carbs? or just reduce the carb intake but still consumed some carbs?

This is the exciting part of the prep,..sometimes the most difficult trying to cram huge quantities of carbs back in the body! Have many healthy Dumps from here on out :)

I am already very depleted when I start my "official" deplete, so I just nudge the carbs down a bit and my training changes. I was at 115g of carbs.

Speaking of trips to the dump...... I was at the grocery store yesterday (buying my potatos and cookie crisp) after eating and training and I got the uncontrollable urge to RUN to the b-room. I think that was MOST of the 1.5-2 lbs I lost yesterday. It was ridiculous. I know. I know....more than you need to know. He he he. :)

I just downed 3 cups of cookie crisp (with vanilla whey...mmmm), 10 oz of potatos, and 2 rice cakes. Oh man, im in my glory. :) Honestly, I dont find it hard to get the carbs in. I could continue eating like this all day. I am so ravenous.

[Grinners]

Honestly, I dont find it hard to get the carbs in. I could continue eating like this all day. I am so ravenous.

I think that's a good sign :)

[JimmyChitwood]

5 pounds of mashed potatoes? For real? HAAaaaa!!!! That is great. This has to be the most hilarious part of contest prep - so counterintuitive. Looking at your mealplan for the day, you would think that you're trying to torpedo your chances of placing but it's actually the master plan to bring down the W. Amazing how the body works.

I am carb loading right along with you today. Just finished an english muffin and the best freakin' apple cider donut I've ever had.

So... are you feeling all giddy and high now? It has to feel fantastic to eat like that after depletion.

[AustrianOakJr]

So are we gonna get some pics of before the show this time?

Im gonna try to get to the gym tomorrow afternoon with good carbs in me, do a light pump up and posing practice. Ill snap some pics then and post. I dont know that my conditioning has improved much.....maybe a hair? You guys can be the judge.


I think that's a good sign :)

I hope so! 300g in my already and still feel like I havent even made a dent.


5 pounds of mashed potatoes? For real? HAAaaaa!!!! That is great. This has to be the most hilarious part of contest prep - so counterintuitive. Looking at your mealplan for the day, you would think that you're trying to torpedo your chances of placing but it's actually the master plan to bring down the W. Amazing how the body works.

I am carb loading right along with you today. Just finished an english muffin and the best freakin' apple cider donut I've ever had.

So... are you feeling all giddy and high now? It has to feel fantastic to eat like that after depletion.

Does seem counterintuitive. You spend all this time dieting and eating like a bird and then right before the main event you go nuts. Although, its not exactly nuts.....like a dirty load. Its pretty calculated. Tommy has me at the very upper end of his carb calculations for body mass since I handled the carbs so well at the Olympus. The carbs im using are very high glycemic to spike insulin and fats are real low so that the body stores the carbs as glycogen and not body fat. I am really fascinated by how it all works. The thing that really gets me and tells me "hey, this ACTUALLY works", is that.....ive been taking in a certain amount of water every day for the past several days (and I know from my last two water loads) that I pee at very predictable intervals. As soon as the carbs come in, that peeing every 45 minutes almost stops. Ive at least doubled the time interval between pees on the same amount of water. So, you know its getting loaded into the muscle. Pretty cool to see it actually work.

Thanks for the support in the carb load. I can feel the connection through our mutual carb frenzy.

[stayfit2008]

All this talk about pee and dumps!!! Ya know Oak and Jimmy are close by!!!

[J_Bo]

Obviously I'm still a complete noob and haven't gone through the deep stages of prep yet... But the depletion/load isn't a method to get leaner, right? Rather kind of primes the muscles to hold more water and glycogen, to give you the fullest look possible come show day?

[AustrianOakJr]

Obviously I'm still a complete noob and haven't gone through the deep stages of prep yet... But the depletion/load isn't a method to get leaner, right? Rather kind of primes the muscles to hold more water and glycogen, to give you the fullest look possible come show day?

Well, when you deplete, you are in serious fat burning mode, but that isnt the main objective. Some guys do a serious deplete where they will go keto or near keto for a few days but at the end of a 20+ week diet, I dont think this is necessary. Im flat as a board. Glycogen is spent. But, thats what you want. You're looking for a "supercompensation" effect where the body will draw in and store up to 150 - 200% more glycogen than you would normally hold when carbs are steady and cals are at maintenance. You can store this extra fuel for a few days and the idea is to hit it right for contest day. Its like a sponge.....when you squeeze it prior to dunking it into a bucket of water you soak up more water than if you have just dunked it in quick without squeezing. Kinda along the same lines. Now, that extra glycogen and water fills the muscle belly and pushes it tight against the skin for more definition. Not to mention the increase blood pressure and vasodialation you get from the glucose pumping through your system.

[stayfit2008]

Well, when you deplete, you are in serious fat burning mode, but that isnt the main objective. Some guys do a serious deplete where they will go keto or near keto for a few days but at the end of a 20+ week diet, I dont think this is necessary. Im flat as a board. Glycogen is spent. But, thats what you want. You're looking for a "supercompensation" effect where the body will draw in and store up to 150 - 200% more glycogen than you would normally hold when carbs are steady and cals are at maintenance. You can store this extra fuel for a few days and the idea is to hit it right for contest day. Its like a sponge.....when you squeeze it prior to dunking it into a bucket of water you soak up more water than if you have just dunked it in quick without squeezing. Kinda along the same lines. Now, that extra glycogen and water fills the muscle belly and pushes it tight against the skin for more definition. Not to mention the increase blood pressure and vasodialation you get from the glucose pumping through your system.

The hard part is getting the timing just right!

[AustrianOakJr]

The hard part is getting the timing just right!

Yes, I have learned quite a bit just by doing two shows back to back. Bringing the carbs in early didnt work out for me....however, I think it could have worked if the days following the carb load where heavier on overall calories. But, even so, I like the back load method better I think. Now as I try to push the envelope a bit with carbs ill learn more about how much I can handle so next time I can come closer to knowing "my number". The sodium timing is also something I would like to dial in a bit better. Tommy and I were talking and he suggested getting all my carbs from white potato so that my body could regulate the potassium just like the sodium, then just give the sodium a "little" drop prior to the show to dry out that extra bit. There is sooooo much to this sport. The more you learn, the more you realize you better keep studying!

[stayfit2008]

Yes, I have learned quite a bit just by doing two shows back to back. Bringing the carbs in early didnt work out for me....however, I think it could have worked if the days following the carb load where heavier on overall calories. But, even so, I like the back load method better I think. Now as I try to push the envelope a bit with carbs ill learn more about how much I can handle so next time I can come closer to knowing "my number". The sodium timing is also something I would like to dial in a bit better. Tommy and I were talking and he suggested getting all my carbs from white potato so that my body could regulate the potassium just like the sodium, then just give the sodium a "little" drop prior to the show to dry out that extra bit. There is sooooo much to this sport. The more you learn, the more you realize you better keep studying!

I hear ya on the potatos,..Hence my 28 white and sweet potatos on Wednesday during Peak Week,..That along with tons of rice cakes, OTC diuretic from MHP (Xpel) and a plethera of other stuff,..is amazing how it all comes together.

[jked4life]

Yes, I have learned quite a bit just by doing two shows back to back. Bringing the carbs in early didnt work out for me....however, I think it could have worked if the days following the carb load where heavier on overall calories. But, even so, I like the back load method better I think. Now as I try to push the envelope a bit with carbs ill learn more about how much I can handle so next time I can come closer to knowing "my number". The sodium timing is also something I would like to dial in a bit better. Tommy and I were talking and he suggested getting all my carbs from white potato so that my body could regulate the potassium just like the sodium, then just give the sodium a "little" drop prior to the show to dry out that extra bit. There is sooooo much to this sport. The more you learn, the more you realize you better keep studying!

This all sounds kind of complicated to me. Gotta plan on spending some time learning about all this stuff. Enjoy the last few days of the contest season. I know you're going to really do well this weekend. Best of luck!

[stayfit2008]

Hey Sean,..Good luck at your next show!!! I'll be right behind ya!!!

http://i290.photobucket.com/albums/ll247/stayfit2008/mr_hankey_the_christmas_poo_by_stac.jpg

[MoEcho]

Hello! I just read through both of your journals!

Amazing stuff!! Thanks for the inspiration!!

I know it's late, but I'm subbed!! You are gonna PWN your show!! :)

Cheers! Heidi

[AustrianOakJr]

This all sounds kind of complicated to me. Gotta plan on spending some time learning about all this stuff. Enjoy the last few days of the contest season. I know you're going to really do well this weekend. Best of luck!

In the end, its a pretty simple plan. But, yea....very complex systems at work. I really am a believer in not messing with too much. Crank the water, bring the carbs in, and maybe nudge the salt. Beyond that, I think its so much of a crap shoot. Id rather know im gonna look 90% my best and go in safe than shoot for that extra 10% and maybe wind up looking like crap.


Hey Sean,..Good luck at your next show!!! I'll be right behind ya!!!

http://i290.photobucket.com/albums/ll247/stayfit2008/mr_hankey_the_christmas_poo_by_stac.jpg

Thanks, Mr. Hanky!


Hello! I just read through both of your journals!

Amazing stuff!! Thanks for the inspiration!!

I know it's late, but I'm subbed!! You are gonna PWN your show!! :)

Cheers! Heidi

Thank you!!

[AustrianOakJr]

Well, I got my 700g down today. That was fun. Actually, I was getting really sick of the mashed potatos towards the end of the day, so I stashed some of them for tomorrow (only about 10oz of the original 5 lbs). I swapped it out for some baked oatmeal at the end of the night......little slower digesting carb for sleep time.

Tomorrow the menu looks like this:

- 2.5 lbs of shredded white potatos w/a touch of asparagus and onion baked in
- 2/3 of a pan of baked banana oatmeal
- 10 oz of garlic cheddar mashed potato
- 4 rice cakes
- 2 bowls of oats
- 100g of protein from egg whites and chicken
- 16g of PB

Macros for tomorrow are: 168P/399C/36F

Gonna feel like im on a diet after today!!! :)

[stayfit2008]

Well, I got my 700g down today. That was fun. Actually, I was getting really sick of the mashed potatos towards the end of the day, so I stashed some of them for tomorrow (only about 10oz of the original 5 lbs). I swapped it out for some baked oatmeal at the end of the night......little slower digesting carb for sleep time.

Tomorrow the menu looks like this:

- 2.5 lbs of shredded white potatos w/a touch of asparagus and onion baked in
- 2/3 of a pan of baked banana oatmeal
- 10 oz of garlic cheddar mashed potato
- 4 rice cakes
- 2 bowls of oats
- 100g of protein from egg whites and chicken
- 16g of PB

Macros for tomorrow are: 168P/399C/36F

Gonna feel like im on a diet after today!!! :)

What happened to,.."No Problemz, I loves my carbs,..almost likes bein ins Heaven"?? :D

[AustrianOakJr]

What happened to,.."No Problemz, I loves my carbs,..almost likes bein ins Heaven"?? :D

Well, that lasted until abouuuut 5PM. I cant say that I didnt want to eat anymore.....I did. It was that that last pound of mashed potato was getting kinda old. :) Got another 3 lbs to eat today though! Luckily there are many different ways to make white potatos!! Today I shredded them and mixed em up with onion, asparagus and butter buds. Pretty tasty actually......until this afternoon when I get sick of them!

[J_Bo]

I think you need to start eating. Your wasting away into nothing and flattening out ;)

[AustrianOakJr]

I think you need to start eating. Your wasting away into nothing and flattening out ;)

I woke up almost 4 lbs heavier this morning. You wouldnt think it, but I also woke up STARVING. Couldnt wait to get breakfast in.

I tell you what.....I made this little banana variation of the baked oatmeal recipe I got from liftjunkie......ooooh man is it good. If I could have put a little peanut butter in there, they would be out of control.

Basicly.....oats, banana, banana extract, egg, baking powder, splenda, milk, cinnamon, and a little smart balance. Bake it up in a pan.......eat it warm.......oh yea!

[J_Bo]

You're a hero to the people :)

[BBTake2]

Hey Oak, Good Luck!

Just out of curiosity, what is this baked oatmeal?

[AustrianOakJr]

You're a hero to the people :)

Thats how I roll. Loving on baked oats.


Hey Oak, Good Luck!

Just out of curiosity, what is this baked oatmeal?

Thanks.

Its basicly oatmeal that been baked in the oven and cut up like brownies.

Lets see if i can recall the recipe while at work here.......

-2 Cups of oats
-3/4 C splenda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 TBSP smart balance / butter - melted
- 1 egg
- 1.5 cups skim milk
- cinnamon
- 1 large banana mashed
- 1/2-full tsp of banana or vanilla extract

Pre-heat the oven to 350. Mix all ingredients in a bowl and pour into a baking pan thats been sprayed with Pam. Bake for 30 min. Let it cool and cut into squares. Eat it warm and top it with come cool whip free and youre loving life.

I have done the recipe with applesauce in the past and its good....but IMOP, the banana is way better. Next week im gonna make a pan with peanut butter/banana.....and maybe some chocolate chips. That'll be good for my first heavy legs day back in the grind. :)

[BBTake2]

Thats how I roll. Loving on baked oats.



Thanks.

Its basicly oatmeal that been baked in the oven and cut up like brownies.

Lets see if i can recall the recipe while at work here.......

-2 Cups of oats
-3/4 C splenda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 TBSP smart balance / butter - melted
- 1 egg
- 1.5 cups skim milk
- cinnamon
- 1 large banana mashed
- 1/2-full tsp of banana or vanilla extract

Pre-heat the oven to 350. Mix all ingredients in a bowl and pour into a baking pan thats been sprayed with Pam. Bake for 30 min. Let it cool and cut into squares. Top it with come cool whip free and youre loving life.

I have done the recipe with applesauce in the past and its good....but IMOP, the banana is way better. Next week im gonna make a pan with peanut butter/banana.....and maybe some chocolate chips. That'll be good for my first heavy legs day back in the grind. :)


sounds good, I am gonna give that a shot. I have been messing around with a bunch of different recipes revolving around oatmeal, always like finding new ones! Thanks!

[AustrianOakJr]

sounds good, I am gonna give that a shot. I have been messing around with a bunch of different recipes revolving around oatmeal, always like finding new ones! Thanks!

You'll love it. Money back guarantee.

[liftjunkie06]

I woke up almost 4 lbs heavier this morning. You wouldnt think it, but I also woke up STARVING. Couldnt wait to get breakfast in.

I tell you what.....I made this little banana variation of the baked oatmeal recipe I got from liftjunkie......ooooh man is it good. If I could have put a little peanut butter in there, they would be out of control.

Basicly.....oats, banana, banana extract, egg, baking powder, splenda, milk, cinnamon, and a little smart balance. Bake it up in a pan.......eat it warm.......oh yea!

Nice! I'll be doing this once I do a small cut here in a couple weeks...

Go get 'em, Oak. Last shot, lots of work, you'll gonna tear it up. Kudos to your wife for giving her blessing.

[ever1964]

I am gonna be trying that banana oatmeal recipe on Sunday. Sounds awfully tasty. If you wanted to boost the protein, you could probably mix a bit of whey in there as well.

[AustrianOakJr]

Nice! I'll be doing this once I do a small cut here in a couple weeks...

Go get 'em, Oak. Last shot, lots of work, you'll gonna tear it up. Kudos to your wife for giving her blessing.

Thanks Junkie!!! My wife is awesome. She's been really helpful......made up my CD yesterday, been helping with meals.....got up at 6AM to give me a coat of tanner. Im really happy.


I am gonna be trying that banana oatmeal recipe on Sunday. Sounds awfully tasty. If you wanted to boost the protein, you could probably mix a bit of whey in there as well.

Oh yea.....a little vanilla whey would be great. When my carbs come up so high, my protein is at bare bones, so I didnt add it. Plus with the oats, egg and the milk its got some decent protein as it is.

[J_Bo]

Man, now that you gots an enhanced cheering section (Blazed) you better step up! :)

[aguy fish]

I'm preppng with Tommy too, i'm 3 and ahlf weeks out and I wonder if he'll do the same method with me. Considering how flat, tired and down I feel, just thinking of eating that much carbs makes me hungry ! I hope you do well on saturday, you look amazing already. Good luck bro !
It's good your wife helps you. Mine is extremely supportive too and this really helps! e are both lucky !

[stayfit2008]

Good Luck Oak!!! Wish I could make it,..but I procrastinated in planning for the 4hr trip! :D

[DavidKH]

Do well tomorrow! Take home the win!

[Blazed]

I'll be cheering on from the stage ;)

[jked4life]

Good luck tomorrow Oak! I'm sure you're going to absolutely kill it. Last one, then off-season!!!!

[ever1964]

Go get 'em Oak. Give it every last bit of energy you got. Victory!!!

[AustrianOakJr]

I'm preppng with Tommy too, i'm 3 and ahlf weeks out and I wonder if he'll do the same method with me. Considering how flat, tired and down I feel, just thinking of eating that much carbs makes me hungry ! I hope you do well on saturday, you look amazing already. Good luck bro !
It's good your wife helps you. Mine is extremely supportive too and this really helps! e are both lucky !

Well, Tommy has made it known that he is pretty aggressive with the carbs. In reality we started very conservative. Even now.....10PM the night before the show, I was planning on 1100 total (200 more than last show) and I am actually upward toward 1300+ and just feeling like im topping off the tank. Upped the fat and dropped the protein a touch for a little mini dirty load right before bed......just to see if it does anything for me. I was feeling a touch flat. If it backfires......its not Tommy's fault.....I didnt run it by him. But, I am learning to navigate a little more by feel.


Good Luck Oak!!! Wish I could make it,..but I procrastinated in planning for the 4hr trip! :D

No problem.....we'll meet up again soon.


Do well tomorrow! Take home the win!

Thanks man. Im going for it!


I'll be cheering on from the stage ;)

Youre a little sneaky, you know. Tell me that you didnt have this planned all along. We'll ill be glad to see you up there.


Good luck tomorrow Oak! I'm sure you're going to absolutely kill it. Last one, then off-season!!!!


Go get 'em Oak. Give it every last bit of energy you got. Victory!!!


Thanks guys!!!

[AustrianOakJr]

OK.....these were taken this afternoon. Still feeling a touch flat.....a bit harder than expected to get a pump. Had about 900g of carbs in me, but I think they just take a little while to seat. Overall, feeling pretty good though. Ready to rock it tomorrow and just do the best I can.

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg123/AustrianOakJr/IMG_3031.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg123/AustrianOakJr/IMG_3032.jpg

.

Little different lighting on these:

.
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg123/AustrianOakJr/IMG_3039.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg123/AustrianOakJr/IMG_3041.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg123/AustrianOakJr/IMG_3047.jpg

[AustrianOakJr]

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg123/AustrianOakJr/IMG_3042.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg123/AustrianOakJr/IMG_3043.jpg

[Blazed]

All I can say is wow!

[AustrianOakJr]

All I can say is wow!

Dont pretend like your pics arent "wow". Man, I still cant get over them. If you had some kind of crystal ball 3 months ago that could show me your present condition, I wouldnt have believed it. Unreal.

So, how did Wegmans treat you? You dont have those down on L.I. Great place to go stock up on carby essentials!

[Blazed]

thats exactly what I did lol!

And Dark Chocolate Dreams PB is 1.97 cheaper here than on LI!

[extremenergy3]

DANG! You are looking hyuuugge! Good luck man!

[JimmyChitwood]

All I can say is - nice hat, ya doobie.

AND - good luck. You're looking pretty mean. That first shot where you can't see your fat head - whoa - you're looking huge there. Very Arnold-esque.

Looking forward to seeing the show results.

Good luck to you too, Blazed!! You're smokin'.

[AustrianOakJr]

thats exactly what I did lol!

And Dark Chocolate Dreams PB is 1.97 cheaper here than on LI!

Bonus! Ive gotta try that stuff sometime.


DANG! You are looking hyuuugge! Good luck man!

Thanks.....ill need to bring everything I got.....13 competitors in my class! Biggest show I have done yet.


All I can say is - nice hat, ya doobie.

AND - good luck. You're looking pretty mean. That first shot where you can't see your fat head - whoa - you're looking huge there. Very Arnold-esque.

Looking forward to seeing the show results.

Good luck to you too, Blazed!! You're smokin'.

You dont like my hat? Im wearing it now. In fact, I wear it a lot. Im always cold and it keeps me warm. It my "tough guy contest prep hat". Along with my addidas warm ups and zip up sweatshirt.....they are contest day essentials.

Thanks for the well wishes. I hope things are going OK on your end.

[aguy fish]

you're looking great !!!!!

[RooRooTJ]

Lookin awesome oak. Now go kick some a$$

[J_Bo]

ummmmm


holy $hit Oak! kNOCK UM dead brudda!

[stayfit2008]

Oak,..I woulld like to Cogratulate you on winning the Pro Card this show!! You'r hard work and determination speaks volumes through your physique!! This is the leanest I ever saw you! Great Job! Now take some time off and win your next,..PRO SHOW!!


A little pre mature,..but I just wanted to be the first to congratulate the big guy!! :)

so,............1st!!! :D

[MoEcho]

Oak,..I woulld like to Cogratulate you on winning the Pro Card this show!! You'r hard work and determination speaks volumes through your physique!! This is the leanest I ever saw you! Great Job! Now take some time off and win your next,..PRO SHOW!!


A little pre mature,..but I just wanted to be the first to congratulate the big guy!! :)

so,............1st!!! :D

^^ :) NICE!!

2nd!

[liftjunkie06]

you tightened up brah! :eek:

Go get 'em. Probably at PJ right now.

[Joe Go]

Good luck Oak! You look hungry.

[jked4life]

Good luck brutha! Those pics look awesome. I have all the faith in the world that you are gonna knock em dead!

[BaFtub]

Great job tonight sir. I've no clue if I even introduced myself but Im that short kid with the camera who was with James/Paul the entire night haha. It was great meeting you and your wife. Awesome job! I'll have some pics up of you along with some video footage from the award hand outs.

[J_Bo]

Man! Can't wait to hear what happened! :D

[AustrianOakJr]

What a day!

Ready for a book. Wow....this is long.

Yesteryday was a wild ride! When I signed up, I didnt know what to expect out of this show. Never been to an OCB show in the area and hadnt heard anything about it. When I arrived at check in the promotor, Mike Halsey was there to greet me and seemed like a really cool guy. He informed me that the show was HUUUGE. There were 13-15 competitors in the mid-weight open!! So....they had to break things up and make a welter weight class just so things were more manageable. So, I was feeling a bit intimidated going in just on sheer size of the show (my biggest yet). When I got there I saw some of the toughest competition I have ever seen as a natural bb'er. It was really unbelievable. At the NGA shows I have been to I am used to seeing conditioned.......but at this show, there was lots of BIG AND conditioned guys all around. Im used to being one of the most muscular guys at these things, but at this one, I felt a bit small. Just some real mass monsters. I did run into "Blazed" and "Baftub" back stage, along with a couple other guys from BB.com. Lots of people came up to me and asked if I was "Oak".....people who read the forum but dont post so much. Its kinda weird that people know me as "Oak" though.
Anyways, Blazed was suuuuper cool guy and he was SHRRRRRRRREDDDED! The man looked good. Real good. He was about to make the same newb mistake that I did and walk out there white as a ghost, but we got him set up with some dream tan. He looked good and I have several shots of him where they moved him in next to me on stage. Really good to meet you man. Also ran into "BBLinebacker" who is now an USBF and WNBF pro.....congrats on that. Good to see you!

So, as for my conditioning and peaking, I think I looked pretty dang good. I was feeling like I hit it pretty good, but there were two problems. It was a bit hard getting a pump and I was very crampy. Normally when I am full of carbs and electrolyte are balanced, I pump right up like a baloon after a couple sets of push ups and curls. Well, I was pretty full, but I had to work at the pump. Then, standing in line to go out for pre-j, I started to cramp in my feet. The first thing that stood out to me that I did differently was that I tapered my water. I started cutting water back that morning and would normally been at about 3/4-1 gallon at that point of the day, I was at less than a 1/2 gallon. So, I started downing some water as I stood there in line. I got on stage and had a REALLY rough time up there. As soon as I locked my legs in on the first front relaxed, I started to cramp. Now, images of the chinese food restaurant incident are running through my head and im starting to freak a little. Trying not to panic im going through the mandatories, but every pose is a struggle to keep from completely cramping. I wasnt flexing everything as hard as I could. I got off the stage and felt pretty bad about the job I did. As I got off the stage, the promotor of the show came right up to me and told me how I looked awesome. He mentioned my hamstrings really popping.....and im thinking to myself "well, maybe its GOOD to have your hams all knotted up like balls on stage". :)

So, after pre-j I started DOWNING water like a madman. It helped but still not entirely. I gave the water some time and still felt crampy. So, I decided to take a risk and start salting everything very heavily.....I just salted the crap out of all my choco-pb rice cakes. Tasted like crap! But, within an hour of salting, I had my muscle control back. So......I THINK the combo of tapering water and sodium is not appreciated by my body. The good news is that when I got back after pre-j and viewed the pics all I could do was smile. I definately brought my best package to the stage. The first thing that stood out was that I nailed my color. The second thing that stood out was that I WAS a bit drier looking. So, the water sodium trick worked. But, I dont know if it was worth it. Thats something I will have to reflect on. I cant wait to post the pics b/c I am really happy with the way they came out. Unfortunately, I am at my in-laws house and I am pretty sure that this compuper is like Apple IIE vintage because it doesnt have a card slot. Ill be sure to post when I get home this afternoon.

Now, the REAL exciting part was the night show. There were a lot of really interesting things that go on at these OCB shows and ill spare you all the details for now, but the MOST interesting thing happened to me. Lucky me. So, im all set to go up and do my hardcore twisting back shots (taught to me by Arnold himself) and I had my CD turned in. It was a really cool cut and splice of some of the transformers movie sound track. Very epic sounding. Well, I got up there and the DJ puts the disk in and I see it come up on his screen "NO DISK". Oh crap. So, the MC is stalling and stalling. I run to get another disk. Same thing. "NO DISK". So the promotor comes over (MC still stalling) and asks if ill just go out and hit some shots to house music. Sure. So I get out there and im expecting something like "Welcome to the Jungle" or some Rage Against the Machine.....whatever. Something tough. Well, I think the DJ must have been pissed off and went right into his "queer" music file and played the number one hit. I dont even know what it was but it was IMPOSSIBLE to pose to. Especially for someone like myself who's routine is based on ALL power shots. It was some bubble gum, nancy pants, girls night out music. I wanted to just sit down on stage and start laughing. But.....I hit some power shots to the queer ball music. Laughed a bit.....and I think I skipped around the stage a bit. Yep, I skipped. I had to make light of it. Soooooo........I roll with it. Im sure people thought the routine a bit odd.

Ok.....so now the night show is FINALLY over.......it took forever and I actually left and came back b/c I was really tiring of it all. They brought us up for awards and I got FIRST!!!!! WOW. That was an awesome. It was especially awesome considering the competition in my class......and you'll see once i post pics. It was a big, tough class. Probably the toughest competition I have been in yet.

So, I run off and immediately need to keep pumped for the overall starting in like 5 min. Im standing there looking at these guys and just saying "oh crap". The heavy and light heavy are just like something from another planet. Just BIG. Not only big, but shredded. The Light heavy, Larry, and the welter weight were super cool guys, wishing everyone luck and shaking hands. Its good to be around gracious guys like that. So, I knew going up there that was not a shoe-in for the card. But, I pumped up well with the sodium and water back in me and I posed my heart out. I hit every shot with max intensity until the end. THey moved me out of the center within the first few poses so I knew the gig was up, but I just kept hitting em. In the pose down, I went right up front and tried to get some MM shots in next to the (eventual) winner. I just had a blast. This was probably the most interesting and most rewarding shows I have ever been to. Not to mention all the GOODIES I took home with me. Let me tell you......Mike Halsey takes care of his competitors. We walked away with a GROCERY bag of supplements and thats no exaggeration. FULL 2 lb tubs of protein, RTD's, samples, a FULL loaf of protein bread, two t-shirts, magazines, etc. He also had food out for competitors....rice crispy treats, bananas and water back stage. It was really awesome.

OK.....almost done. Afterward, we went to Red Lobster for the the all-you-can-eat shrimp deal. OH MAN. We talked to the waiter and explained to him that I have been dieting for 21 weeks and I am basically starving to death so get ready to roll out the shrimp because we are big eater AND big tippers. So, he did. And did. And did. That waiter was the MAN. He just kept bringing shrimp plate after plate. And we had even stopped eating because everyone was stuffed and he still brought out like (no joke) 8 more plates of shrimp. We took home 5 carry-home containers full of shrimp. Fried shrimp, shrimp scampi, glazed, grilled, etc. GOOOOD stuff. Then, my wife and I stopped at Wegmans on the way home to get me some Ben and Jerry's. I downed the whole thing. All 1200 calories. Went to bed, fat, bloated and on cloud nine.

Ill get some pics up later!

[stayfit2008]

NICE Brotha!!!

..............................1st :D

[RooRooTJ]

What a day!

Ready for a book. Wow....this is long.

Yesteryday was a wild ride! When I signed up, I didnt know what to expect out of this show. Never been to an OCB show in the area and hadnt heard anything about it. When I arrived at check in the promotor, Mike Halsey was there to greet me and seemed like a really cool guy. He informed me that the show was HUUUGE. There were 13-15 competitors in the mid-weight open!! So....they had to break things up and make a welter weight class just so things were more manageable. So, I was feeling a bit intimidated going in just on sheer size of the show (my biggest yet). When I got there I saw some of the toughest competition I have ever seen as a natural bb'er. It was really unbelievable. At the NGA shows I have been to I am used to seeing conditioned.......but at this show, there was lots of BIG AND conditioned guys all around. Im used to being one of the most muscular guys at these things, but at this one, I felt a bit small. Just some real mass monsters. I did run into "Blazed" and "Baftub" back stage, along with a couple other guys from BB.com. Lots of people came up to me and asked if I was "Oak".....people who read the forum but dont post so much. Its kinda weird that people know me as "Oak" though.
Anyways, Blazed was suuuuper cool guy and he was SHRRRRRRRREDDDED! The man looked good. Real good. He was about to make the same newb mistake that I did and walk out there white as a ghost, but we got him set up with some dream tan. He looked good and I have several shots of him where they moved him in next to me on stage. Really good to meet you man. Also ran into "BBLinebacker" who is now an USBF and WNBF pro.....congrats on that. Good to see you!

So, as for my conditioning and peaking, I think I looked pretty dang good. I was feeling like I hit it pretty good, but there were two problems. It was a bit hard getting a pump and I was very crampy. Normally when I am full of carbs and electrolyte are balanced, I pump right up like a baloon after a couple sets of push ups and curls. Well, I was pretty full, but I had to work at the pump. Then, standing in line to go out for pre-j, I started to cramp in my feet. The first thing that stood out to me that I did differently was that I tapered my water. I started cutting water back that morning and would normally been at about 3/4-1 gallon at that point of the day, I was at less than a 1/2 gallon. So, I started downing some water as I stood there in line. I got on stage and had a REALLY rough time up there. As soon as I locked my legs in on the first front relaxed, I started to cramp. Now, images of the chinese food restaurant incident are running through my head and im starting to freak a little. Trying not to panic im going through the mandatories, but every pose is a struggle to keep from completely cramping. I wasnt flexing everything as hard as I could. I got off the stage and felt pretty bad about the job I did. As I got off the stage, the promotor of the show came right up to me and told me how I looked awesome. He mentioned my hamstrings really popping.....and im thinking to myself "well, maybe its GOOD to have your hams all knotted up like balls on stage". :)

So, after pre-j I started DOWNING water like a madman. It helped but still not entirely. I gave the water some time and still felt crampy. So, I decided to take a risk and start salting everything very heavily.....I just salted the crap out of all my choco-pb rice cakes. Tasted like crap! But, within an hour of salting, I had my muscle control back. So......I THINK the combo of tapering water and sodium is not appreciated by my body. The good news is that when I got back after pre-j and viewed the pics all I could do was smile. I definately brought my best package to the stage. The first thing that stood out was that I nailed my color. The second thing that stood out was that I WAS a bit drier looking. So, the water sodium trick worked. But, I dont know if it was worth it. Thats something I will have to reflect on. I cant wait to post the pics b/c I am really happy with the way they came out. Unfortunately, I am at my in-laws house and I am pretty sure that this compuper is like Apple IIE vintage because it doesnt have a card slot. Ill be sure to post when I get home this afternoon.

Now, the REAL exciting part was the night show. There were a lot of really interesting things that go on at these OCB shows and ill spare you all the details for now, but the MOST interesting thing happened to me. Lucky me. So, im all set to go up and do my hardcore twisting back shots (taught to me by Arnold himself) and I had my CD turned in. It was a really cool cut and splice of some of the transformers movie sound track. Very epic sounding. Well, I got up there and the DJ puts the disk in and I see it come up on his screen "NO DISK". Oh crap. So, the MC is stalling and stalling. I run to get another disk. Same thing. "NO DISK". So the promotor comes over (MC still stalling) and asks if ill just go out and hit some shots to house music. Sure. So I get out there and im expecting something like "Welcome to the Jungle" or some Rage Against the Machine.....whatever. Something tough. Well, I think the DJ must have been pissed off and went right into his "queer" music file and played the number one hit. I dont even know what it was but it was IMPOSSIBLE to pose to. Especially for someone like myself who's routine is based on ALL power shots. It was some bubble gum, nancy pants, girls night out music. I wanted to just sit down on stage and start laughing. But.....I hit some power shots to the queer ball music. Laughed a bit.....and I think I skipped around the stage a bit. Yep, I skipped. I had to make light of it. Soooooo........I roll with it. Im sure people thought the routine a bit odd.

Ok.....so now the night show is FINALLY over.......it took forever and I actually left and came back b/c I was really tiring of it all. They brought us up for awards and I got FIRST!!!!! WOW. That was an awesome. It was especially awesome considering the competition in my class......and you'll see once i post pics. It was a big, tough class. Probably the toughest competition I have been in yet.

So, I run off and immediately need to keep pumped for the overall starting in like 5 min. Im standing there looking at these guys and just saying "oh crap". The heavy and light heavy are just like something from another planet. Just BIG. Not only big, but shredded. The Light heavy, Larry, and the welter weight were super cool guys, wishing everyone luck and shaking hands. Its good to be around gracious guys like that. So, I knew going up there that was not a shoe-in for the card. But, I pumped up well with the sodium and water back in me and I posed my heart out. I hit every shot with max intensity until the end. THey moved me out of the center within the first few poses so I knew the gig was up, but I just kept hitting em. In the pose down, I went right up front and tried to get some MM shots in next to the (eventual) winner. I just had a blast. This was probably the most interesting and most rewarding shows I have ever been to. Not to mention all the GOODIES I took home with me. Let me tell you......Mike Halsey takes care of his competitors. We walked away with a GROCERY bag of supplements and thats no exaggeration. FULL 2 lb tubs of protein, RTD's, samples, a FULL loaf of protein bread, two t-shirts, magazines, etc. He also had food out for competitors....rice crispy treats, bananas and water back stage. It was really awesome.

OK.....almost done. Afterward, we went to Red Lobster for the the all-you-can-eat shrimp deal. OH MAN. We talked to the waiter and explained to him that I have been dieting for 21 weeks and I am basically starving to death so get ready to roll out the shrimp because we are big eater AND big tippers. So, he did. And did. And did. That waiter was the MAN. He just kept bringing shrimp plate after plate. And we had even stopped eating because everyone was stuffed and he still brought out like (no joke) 8 more plates of shrimp. We took home 5 carry-home containers full of shrimp. Fried shrimp, shrimp scampi, glazed, grilled, etc. GOOOOD stuff. Then, my wife and I stopped at Wegmans on the way home to get me some Ben and Jerry's. I downed the whole thing. All 1200 calories. Went to bed, fat, bloated and on cloud nine.

Ill get some pics up later!

great job Oak. Glad you were able to make this show and get that 1st. What a great way to end the season. Sorry about the music though. haha Cant wait to see some of the pics. Great job again.

[stayfit2008]

Thats a great story Sean!!! CAN"T WAIT to see the pics of you in the overall!!! let me be the judge of who should have taken the card!! Once I figure this out I'll be calling that OCB promoter to set things right! :)

I'll read Blazed Journal to see how he did. I'm glad you had a great time! That would have been a great show to watch!!! even compete in from what it sounds like!! WTG!

[AustrianOakJr]

Managed to dig up a USB cable for the camera. Apparently, this computer is not as old as the Apple IIE.....its more in the windows 95 era of things.....it does have a USB port.

On to the pics.

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http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg123/AustrianOakJr/DSC_0022.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg123/AustrianOakJr/DSC_0027.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg123/AustrianOakJr/DSC_0031.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg123/AustrianOakJr/DSC_0034.jpg

[AustrianOakJr]

More with other guys in the line up. Blazed in all his shreddedness is in there also....


.

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg123/AustrianOakJr/DSC_0025.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg123/AustrianOakJr/DSC_0036.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg123/AustrianOakJr/DSC_0037.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg123/AustrianOakJr/DSC_0040.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg123/AustrianOakJr/DSC_0029.jpg

[ever1964]

Great work!! Sounds like you had a blast with some great competitors. Of course you will have to post the "stage skipping" pics!! You posted pics about the time I was posting. Man, you were definitely on your game. You guys look awesome in those pics. Your color was way better and spot on!

[AustrianOakJr]

Heres a few from my queer night show routine. Funny that these poses were totally spontaneous, with no practice and they came off fairly symetrical and aesthetic......

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg123/AustrianOakJr/DSC_0044.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg123/AustrianOakJr/DSC_0045.jpg
.

.
And heres the hardware.

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg123/AustrianOakJr/DSC_0052-1.jpg

[AustrianOakJr]

Great work!! Sounds like you had a blast with some great competitors. Of course you will have to post the "stage skipping" pics!!

Oh....ive got video. Ill youtube it later. Its freaking hilarious.

[ever1964]

So who won what??!??!!? Blazed has hardware, you have hardware, but no one is telling us what for. Out with it already.

[stayfit2008]

Sean,..is that a Gladiator trophy you got!!! Nice!!

[Blazed]

It was AWESOME meeting you Oakster.

Sorry I dipped so quick after the Overall Posedown

I watched your Posedown and then we peaced since everyone was tired and Baftub left his hat at my friends house in 'Cuse.

You looked fantastic yesterday. I agree that the show was an amazing experience and well run IMHO. Althought I don't have much to compare it to.

[AustrianOakJr]

So who won what??!??!!? Blazed has hardware, you have hardware, but no one is telling us what for. Out with it already.

You APPARENTLY didnt READ my WHOLE book. :)

I got first open middle weight. Ill let Blazed tell his own placings if he so chooses.


Sean,..is that a Gladiator trophy you got!!! Nice!!

Oh yea. Straight up Gladiator. :)


It was AWESOME meeting you Oakster.

Sorry I dipped so quick after the Overall Posedown

I watched your Posedown and then we peaced since everyone was tired and Baftub left his hat at my friends house in 'Cuse.

You looked fantastic yesterday. I agree that the show was an amazing experience and well run IMHO. Althought I don't have much to compare it to.

Indeed. Good times. I figured you had to cut out. No problem. Its a looooong day. I hope the worlds are an even better experience for you. Ill be watching your thread.

[ever1964]

You APPARENTLY didnt READ my WHOLE book. :)

I got first open middle weight. Ill let Blazed tell his own placings if he so chooses.


Oh, yes. I read it. There just still seemed to be something mysterious going on here. So, we'll go over to Blazed's thread and harass him.

[stayfit2008]

TELL US,..or we'll start spreading rumors!!! :D

[aguy fish]

Congrats very inspiring you looked amazing !

[Joe Go]

Great news Oak! Congrats!

[J_Bo]

Awesome job, OAK! Sounds like the show and the after party were a blast! Looks like choosing to do another show was a great choice!

[Whomper107]

Awesome writeup and great job Oak, you looked good up there, definitely dialed it in nicely for this show. That sucks about your posing music, that is every bodybuilder's nightmare hahah... but it sounds to me like you handled it pretty well. Congrats on winning your class!

[Buzz_Lightyear]

Sean, pleasure meeting you yesterday and congratulations on everything.

Sorry you had to pose to that piss poor music, as well.

Thanks for letting me use your DBs to pump with, too. I appreciate it.

Great job again!

:)

[stayfit2008]

Thanks for letting me use your DBs to pump with, too. I appreciate it.

Great job again!

:)

^^^^Hey Oak,..I didn't know Tim (Jimmychitwood) was there??? :D

[Buzz_Lightyear]

^^^^Hey Oak,..I didn't know Tim (Jimmychitwood) was there??? :D

Am I unaware?

[stayfit2008]

Am I unaware?

It was a joke to one of Oaks freinds,..you said Db,..(Dumb Bell) so I was refering to Tim,..aka(Jimmychitwood). He's a good guy,..we just like to poke fun at each other once in awhile,..;)

[AustrianOakJr]

Sean, pleasure meeting you yesterday and congratulations on everything.

Sorry you had to pose to that piss poor music, as well.

Thanks for letting me use your DBs to pump with, too. I appreciate it.

Great job again!

:)


GOod meeting you also. You looked solid, man. Congrats. Hopefully, we meet again at another one!

[AustrianOakJr]

Congrats very inspiring you looked amazing !


Great news Oak! Congrats!
Thanks guys!



Awesome job, OAK! Sounds like the show and the after party were a blast! Looks like choosing to do another show was a great choice!

Yep.....and the afterparty is still going. Just went and had a great rochester tradition.....the garbage plate:

http://crowbiz.files.wordpress.com/2009/06/224230448_cfd35c045e.jpg
/


.
For dinner im thinking pizza and then wash it all down with another pint of Ben and Jerrys. Tomorrow back to diet numbers plus 30g of carbs.....at least until I see where my weight goes.


I am very greatful my wife went along with my plan. Couldnt have done it without her!


Awesome writeup and great job Oak, you looked good up there, definitely dialed it in nicely for this show. That sucks about your posing music, that is every bodybuilder's nightmare hahah... but it sounds to me like you handled it pretty well. Congrats on winning your class!


Thanks man. Honestly, I could care less about the night show. I really like the competitive part of the whole thing (comparison rounds). The show is just fluff. My family has seen my routine twice already so it was kind of funny to mix it up a little bit. As long as its not judged.....I could care less if I looked like a goober. Thats nothing new.

[AustrianOakJr]

On a scale of 1-10.....how messed up is it that I am so full from lunch that I am going to run to the grocery store so that I work up an appetite for a pizza dinner? And if thats not messed up enough, I am running to the grocery to get 2 pints of Ben and Jerry's for dessert! HA!!! :)

[JimmyChitwood]

^^^^Hey Oak,..I didn't know Tim (Jimmychitwood) was there??? :D

Yep - Mr. Dumb Bell here. :D I was there alright - but only in spirit. I was actually held up in the hospital with my eight week old baby boy. He'd been having some major feeding issues and they finally figured out that it was acid reflux and got him on medication. It was pretty tough to go through - IV in his head, lots of tests, etc. Poor little guy. He liked the attention from the nurses though. I think he was just milking the whole thing so he could hear more people fawn over him. We were there for three nights - I stayed every minute - and I got about six hours of sleep in 78 hours. So... I'm tired.


On a scale of 1-10.....how messed up is it that I am so full from lunch that I am going to run to the grocery store so that I work up an appetite for a pizza dinner? And if thats not messed up enough, I am running to the grocery to get 2 pints of Ben and Jerry's for dessert! HA!!! :)

Not messed up at all. I'm doing the same thing. I'm on the post-hospital-stay binge, so I'm right there with you. I figure if you and I can do the carb loading together, we can also do the post show binge together. And the bulking too. I like that part. When do we get to that?

Hey - I read the book you wrote even though you told it to me over the phone earlier. Nice. This sounds like it was a cool show to take part in. Sounds like the promoter knows what he's about. That makes all the difference apparently. You sure you don't think the Olympus is awesome anymore? :D

Congrats to you on the placing - you kicked some butt this show, and this whole season. Very proud of you, my friend. You've been grinding away in the gym very steadily and have really put on some quality mass. Pictures of you on stage are awesome. You look absolutley huge with great proportions. The transformation on the legs continues to amaze me.

Night show pictures - that first one - you can't say you haven't practiced that one before. How many times have we thrown up that pose and pranced criss cross over a dance floor at random night clubs? You've practiced it plenty, even if it was years ago. I hope you remembered to prance at least?? Sounds like the music would have been perfect for it. Can't wait to see the video. The music thing - totally what I would be petrified by, but you handled it very well it sounds. I'm sure it helped that this was your third show in a row. You must feel pretty comfortable on the stage by now. Which is why I'm a little confused why when you heard the foo foo music you didn't throw up the batman pose, or do a handstand or some high kicks. Or maybe the ultimate pose - back to the crowd and bend over and smile at them between your legs. Once you saw the judges take you out of the center during the overall judging, you should have pulled some of these out to get their attention again. Might have been enough to put you on top. Live and learn. Next time phone a friend, and ask me for advices.

[AustrianOakJr]

Hey - I read the book you wrote even though you told it to me over the phone earlier. Nice. This sounds like it was a cool show to take part in. Sounds like the promoter knows what he's about. That makes all the difference apparently. You sure you don't think the Olympus is awesome anymore? :D


Ah. Nope. Wont be doing another one of those. Bad attitudes combined with the good ol' politics game = suck.



Congrats to you on the placing - you kicked some butt this show, and this whole season. Very proud of you, my friend. You've been grinding away in the gym very steadily and have really put on some quality mass. Pictures of you on stage are awesome. You look absolutley huge with great proportions. The transformation on the legs continues to amaze me. .

Thanks man. Wish I could have scored the pro-card, but it wasnt meant to be. When you see the overall pics below, you'll notice I was beat pretty fair and square. So, next year ill be back up there with some more mass to take care of the heavy weights.




Night show pictures - that first one - you can't say you haven't practiced that one before. How many times have we thrown up that pose and pranced criss cross over a dance floor at random night clubs? You've practiced it plenty, even if it was years ago. I hope you remembered to prance at least?? Sounds like the music would have been perfect for it.

Thats probably why that pose was the first that popped into my head when the gay music came on. I just automatically associate that pose with dancing around like a fool.

In hindsight, I do wish I hammed it up a little more. I just had a little more "deer in the headlights" thing going there and couldnt think well enough on the fly. Would have been cool to break out some of the old country club moves from back in the day. That probably would have scored me ahead of the overall winner for sure.

[stayfit2008]

Hey Oak,.your music thing coulda been worse,..They could have played "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" or "I'm a Good Ship Lollipop".

[AustrianOakJr]

Here are the pics of the overall. The head judge pretty much told me that most judges only look for the top guy.....I looked at the score sheets and some of them only had one number written down - the winner. So, I put myself in third place in this line up. Hard to say for sure without a real comprehensive look at all the poses, but I think my conditioning compares pretty evenly with the light weight and the welter weight, but my size and proportions are considerably better. The light heavy and heavy smoke me pretty well. Gotta admit the winner was chosen wisely. Honestly, I like Larry's proportions better (the light heavy weight), but I think it was close and he was edged on conditioning.

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg123/AustrianOakJr/14f7a16f.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg123/AustrianOakJr/0ad0e076.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg123/AustrianOakJr/e5501504.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg123/AustrianOakJr/14196bf1.jpg
.

This is the overall posedown. The fun part!

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http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg123/AustrianOakJr/1612aa10.jpg
http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg123/AustrianOakJr/9982c767.jpg

[stayfit2008]

Which one was the Heavy?? The black guy?? Tough call between the heavy and Lt. Heavy!

You look fr**kin Amazing Sean! You doing another show next weekend??? :D

[AustrianOakJr]

Which one was the Heavy?? The black guy?? Tough call between the heavy and Lt. Heavy!

You look fr**kin Amazing Sean! You doing another show next weekend??? :D

The black guy was the heavy. He won. It was close, but I think the heavy weight had a little better conditioning. Tough to say.

Thanks for the props.

Yea, we were out at Red Lobster and I said to my wife (mostly joking)...."What do you think about the Worlds in NYC next weekend?" The look I got was priceless on that one.:)

[JimmyChitwood]

Which one was the Heavy?? The black guy?? Tough call between the heavy and Lt. Heavy!

You look fr**kin Amazing Sean! You doing another show next weekend??? :D

Yeah, why don't you just keep this thing going?? I'm sure the wife and family will understand... and be all about it! Maybe I'll even come to one of them. :D

Geez... what a group of MONSTERS on stage!! The overall lineup is incredible - whoa. You were right - amazing. There's a ton of meat up there - incredible that it's all natural.

You look good up there, though. You may have been beat, but you don't look like you can't hang. You really held your own against some of the toughest competition you've seen yet. Nicely played, sir. You look freakin' huge, and totally shredded. Great game.

But the winner looks like he could eat you as his post-contest meal. :eek:

[stayfit2008]

The black guy was the heavy. He won. It was close, but I think the heavy weight had a little better conditioning. Tough to say.

Thanks for the props.

Yea, we were out at Red Lobster and I said to my wife (mostly joking)...."What do you think about the Worlds in NYC next weekend?" The look I got was priceless on that one.:)

You may have to do a Blaze number,..Tell her your just going to watch Blaze compete,..:D

[jked4life]

Absolutely outstanding Sean! It looks and sounds like it was a pretty awesome show. Glad you hung in there and hit that last one before beginning the offseason. You looked awesome up there and it sounds like you had a blast too. Sorry to hear about the music debacle, but the way you handled it was classic. I don't think I'd be that composed in that situation.

Now that you're officially in the offseason, you got to make it out to the west side to come train. Either that or I can come out there.

[AustrianOakJr]

Yeah, why don't you just keep this thing going?? I'm sure the wife and family will understand... and be all about it! Maybe I'll even come to one of them. :D

Geez... what a group of MONSTERS on stage!! The overall lineup is incredible - whoa. You were right - amazing. There's a ton of meat up there - incredible that it's all natural.

You look good up there, though. You may have been beat, but you don't look like you can't hang. You really held your own against some of the toughest competition you've seen yet. Nicely played, sir. You look freakin' huge, and totally shredded. Great game.

But the winner looks like he could eat you as his post-contest meal. :eek:

Yes, there were some REALLY big guys there. Its interesting to note, that the one guy that I had pegged for the overall wasnt even on stage. I cant remember his name, but when I saw him back stage, my jaw dropped. He was an older guy (over 40) and was packed full of mountains of sinewy muscle. Great proportion (slightly undersized wheels though) and UNBELIEVABLE conditioning. His glutes were as striated as my chest. No joke. Actually, they were MORE striated than my chest. Perfect deep individual lines running the whole length of his glute. Notto mention every other part of his body that was just defined like an anatomy chart. I believe he would have been a light heavy weight, but he was only competing in the masters division (in which he beat Larry, the LHW that is in the pics). I asked him why he wasnt crossing over and he told met that it was his first show and he just wanted to see how he would do. HA HA!!!! I almost fell over. If he had a good enough time to want to compete again, we will be seeing his name somewhere big. Guaranteed.


You may have to do a Blaze number,..Tell her your just going to watch Blaze compete,..:D

Great idea. She'd still kill me. :)


Absolutely outstanding Sean! It looks and sounds like it was a pretty awesome show. Glad you hung in there and hit that last one before beginning the offseason. You looked awesome up there and it sounds like you had a blast too. Sorry to hear about the music debacle, but the way you handled it was classic. I don't think I'd be that composed in that situation.

Now that you're officially in the offseason, you got to make it out to the west side to come train. Either that or I can come out there.


Thanks man. It was an awesome time. Id love to do some training. Im gonna start on a power/hyper split just as soon as I have some time to sit and come up with a plan. Tomorrow, im just doing some upper body pump work to burn some gylcogen and take advantage of the monster pump time. Ill be in full swing shortly though!

[BaFtub]

Yes, there were some REALLY big guys there. Its interesting to note, that the one guy that I had pegged for the overall wasnt even on stage. I cant remember his name, but when I saw him back stage, my jaw dropped. He was an older guy (over 40) and was packed full of mountains of sinewy muscle. Great proportion (slightly undersized wheels though) and UNBELIEVABLE conditioning. His glutes were as striated as my chest. No joke. Actually, they were MORE striated than my chest. Perfect deep individual lines running the whole length of his glute. Notto mention every other part of his body that was just defined like an anatomy chart. I believe he would have been a light heavy weight, but he was only competing in the masters division (in which he beat Larry, the LHW that is in the pics). I asked him why he wasnt crossing over and he told met that it was his first show and he just wanted to see how he would do. HA HA!!!! I almost fell over. If he had a good enough time to want to compete again, we will be seeing his name somewhere big. Guaranteed.



I might have a pic of two of him with his wife. He was incredibly nice and I honestly think that might've been a warm up show for him.. Because he was WOW conditioned. Great job again Sean! PS, vids of your winning in the light heavies will be up tomorrow!

[Quelly]

and way to win your class with some steep comp! definitely best you've looked man, congrats!

[AustrianOakJr]

I might have a pic of two of him with his wife. He was incredibly nice and I honestly think that might've been a warm up show for him.. Because he was WOW conditioned. Great job again Sean! PS, vids of your winning in the light heavies will be up tomorrow!

Yea, maybe he went on elsewhere. If he doesnt......he SHOULD. I havent been to a natural show that he wouldnt take free and clear.

Please post up the vid.....although, if you've got one of me winning the light heavies, LMK and ill send it to the promotor and get my trophy for that one too. I was a middle.....;) :) He he!


and way to win your class with some steep comp! definitely best you've looked man, congrats!


Thanks man. I appreciate it. |Definately the biggest guys I have ever been up against.

Does anyone know off hand what the OCB's stance on pro-hormones is? The only thing the asked about in the poly was "illegal" steroids.

[jked4life]

Thanks man. It was an awesome time. Id love to do some training. Im gonna start on a power/hyper split just as soon as I have some time to sit and come up with a plan. Tomorrow, im just doing some upper body pump work to burn some gylcogen and take advantage of the monster pump time. Ill be in full swing shortly though!

I like the power/hyper a lot. I've always been a frequency type guy anyways. My plan is basically 5 times a week

Upper Power
Lower Power
HIIT Cardio
Weakpoint training- Glutes, Shoulders, Chest
Off
Upper Hyper
Lower Hyper


You could set it up any way you want, but this works pretty well for me. If you really like the bodypart type split, you could roll with the conventional setup.

[stayfit2008]

PS, vids of your winning in the light heavies will be up tomorrow!
If ya Got a Vid of Sean doing his routine to "Somewhere Over The rainbow",..I'd pay to see that!!! :D



Does anyone know off hand what the OCB's stance on pro-hormones is? The only thing the asked about in the poly was "illegal" steroids.

Sea,..I'm pretty dure the OCB and NGA share the same rules.

[AustrianOakJr]

I like the power/hyper a lot. I've always been a frequency type guy anyways. My plan is basically 5 times a week

Upper Power
Lower Power
HIIT Cardio
Weakpoint training- Glutes, Shoulders, Chest
Off
Upper Hyper
Lower Hyper


You could set it up any way you want, but this works pretty well for me. If you really like the bodypart type split, you could roll with the conventional setup.

Im gonna set it up similar, but going to break up my hypertrophy days into 3. What 3, I dont know yet.....gotta think a bit.


If ya Got a Vid of Sean doing his routine to "Somewhere Over The rainbow",..I'd pay to see that!!! :D


Sea,..I'm pretty dure the OCB and NGA share the same rules.

Ill be posting the vid. Dont worry. Its awesome.

Same rules, then that means pro-h are allowed, right?

[stayfit2008]

Same rules, then that means pro-h are allowed, right?

No,..well for one,..you can't get PH anymore,..only thing similar to PH are the OTC designer gear,..and most if not 90% of that is a no no. Even watching what supp's metabolize into can disqualify someone or make the banned list. Even something as simple as DHEA is not allowed,..since Jan. 1st 2009. There is a super long in depth list and dates of when things got banned online somewhere,..I downloaded it about a year ago. If I find it I'll PM it to ya.

[Blazed]

Thats wack imo. If they do allow Pro-H

[stayfit2008]

Thats wack imo. If they do allow Pro-H

Since PH have been banned for some time now, meaning no longer in production,..they are now called by the population,..Designer Gear.

here is the OCB list of banned substances and dates:

http://www.theocbwebsite.com/forms/DrugTestingGuidelines.pdf

[AustrianOakJr]

They only ask about illegal steroids on the poly though, didnt they Blazed? Not that it matters.....if people are following the rules, then that cool.

[Blazed]

They asked my name.
Then they asked if I plan on answering truthfully.
Then they asked If I ever took AAS
Then they asked if I ever took AAS, just one pill or shot in my lifetime.
Then they asked if I used the stimulant Clenbuteral.
Then they asked if I ever stole anything of value when I was a kid

And I think that was it.

I don't think they can ask everything on that list of substances lol!

[Blazed]

I was taking a leak after prejudging and Mike was in the bathroom talking to one of the judges. Apparently they did have 2 no shows and 1 failure on the poly.

[stayfit2008]

Hey Sean,..if all goes well,..I may do another show to coorespond with my Bulk/Cut regiment in September 2009. I liked to try to get one more show in before my NGA card expires.

[AustrianOakJr]

Hey Sean,..if all goes well,..I may do another show to coorespond with my Bulk/Cut regiment in September 2009. I liked to try to get one more show in before my NGA card expires.

Well, September '09 already passed, so let me know when you get your time machine working, id like to try that out. ;)

I assume youre talking about the fall 2010 NGA shows? Thats cool. But why would you want to cut to contest BF levels if youre trying to pack on muscle for the pro world? I can see doing mini bulks and cuts, but I would hang at 12% BF or so to remain anabolic to build some quality muscle.

Either way, you wont catch me at another NGA show run by Jerry Marsala. I found out about wayyyy to much shady crap that goes on at those things and dont want to be part of it anymore. Couple that with the way he treats competitors and people in the audience, and the fact that the judges dont have any credentials...... I just wont do it anymore. Id love to see you up on stage with me at an INBF or OCB event though!

[stayfit2008]

Well, September '09 already passed, so let me know when you get your time machine working, id like to try that out. ;)

I assume youre talking about the fall 2010 NGA shows? Thats cool. But why would you want to cut to contest BF levels if youre trying to pack on muscle for the pro world? I can see doing mini bulks and cuts, but I would hang at 12% BF or so to remain anabolic to build some quality muscle.

Either way, you wont catch me at another NGA show run by Jerry Marsala. I found out about wayyyy to much shady crap that goes on at those things and dont want to be part of it anymore. Couple that with the way he treats competitors and people in the audience, and the fact that the judges dont have any credentials...... I just wont do it anymore. Id love to see you up on stage with me at an INBF or OCB event though!

I'm just thinking things through,..I know a mini bulk/mini cut are pretty decent in the gain catagory,..maybe a cut all the way to contest shape may not be in my best interest if Iplan to put on some more size,..

that would be cool,..Chris and Oak meet again!!,..So I figure you'll have to hold off on winning your pro card until we meet up again! Can ya wait 2 years???

[scoobysnacks]

What a day!

Ready for a book. Wow....this is long.

Yesteryday was a wild ride! When I signed up, I didnt know what to expect out of this show. Never been to an OCB show in the area and hadnt heard anything about it. When I arrived at check in the promotor, Mike Halsey was there to greet me and seemed like a really cool guy. He informed me that the show was HUUUGE. There were 13-15 competitors in the mid-weight open!! So....they had to break things up and make a welter weight class just so things were more manageable. So, I was feeling a bit intimidated going in just on sheer size of the show (my biggest yet). When I got there I saw some of the toughest competition I have ever seen as a natural bb'er. It was really unbelievable. At the NGA shows I have been to I am used to seeing conditioned.......but at this show, there was lots of BIG AND conditioned guys all around. Im used to being one of the most muscular guys at these things, but at this one, I felt a bit small. Just some real mass monsters. I did run into "Blazed" and "Baftub" back stage, along with a couple other guys from BB.com. Lots of people came up to me and asked if I was "Oak".....people who read the forum but dont post so much. Its kinda weird that people know me as "Oak" though.
Anyways, Blazed was suuuuper cool guy and he was SHRRRRRRRREDDDED! The man looked good. Real good. He was about to make the same newb mistake that I did and walk out there white as a ghost, but we got him set up with some dream tan. He looked good and I have several shots of him where they moved him in next to me on stage. Really good to meet you man. Also ran into "BBLinebacker" who is now an USBF and WNBF pro.....congrats on that. Good to see you!

So, as for my conditioning and peaking, I think I looked pretty dang good. I was feeling like I hit it pretty good, but there were two problems. It was a bit hard getting a pump and I was very crampy. Normally when I am full of carbs and electrolyte are balanced, I pump right up like a baloon after a couple sets of push ups and curls. Well, I was pretty full, but I had to work at the pump. Then, standing in line to go out for pre-j, I started to cramp in my feet. The first thing that stood out to me that I did differently was that I tapered my water. I started cutting water back that morning and would normally been at about 3/4-1 gallon at that point of the day, I was at less than a 1/2 gallon. So, I started downing some water as I stood there in line. I got on stage and had a REALLY rough time up there. As soon as I locked my legs in on the first front relaxed, I started to cramp. Now, images of the chinese food restaurant incident are running through my head and im starting to freak a little. Trying not to panic im going through the mandatories, but every pose is a struggle to keep from completely cramping. I wasnt flexing everything as hard as I could. I got off the stage and felt pretty bad about the job I did. As I got off the stage, the promotor of the show came right up to me and told me how I looked awesome. He mentioned my hamstrings really popping.....and im thinking to myself "well, maybe its GOOD to have your hams all knotted up like balls on stage". :)

So, after pre-j I started DOWNING water like a madman. It helped but still not entirely. I gave the water some time and still felt crampy. So, I decided to take a risk and start salting everything very heavily.....I just salted the crap out of all my choco-pb rice cakes. Tasted like crap! But, within an hour of salting, I had my muscle control back. So......I THINK the combo of tapering water and sodium is not appreciated by my body. The good news is that when I got back after pre-j and viewed the pics all I could do was smile. I definately brought my best package to the stage. The first thing that stood out was that I nailed my color. The second thing that stood out was that I WAS a bit drier looking. So, the water sodium trick worked. But, I dont know if it was worth it. Thats something I will have to reflect on. I cant wait to post the pics b/c I am really happy with the way they came out. Unfortunately, I am at my in-laws house and I am pretty sure that this compuper is like Apple IIE vintage because it doesnt have a card slot. Ill be sure to post when I get home this afternoon.

Now, the REAL exciting part was the night show. There were a lot of really interesting things that go on at these OCB shows and ill spare you all the details for now, but the MOST interesting thing happened to me. Lucky me. So, im all set to go up and do my hardcore twisting back shots (taught to me by Arnold himself) and I had my CD turned in. It was a really cool cut and splice of some of the transformers movie sound track. Very epic sounding. Well, I got up there and the DJ puts the disk in and I see it come up on his screen "NO DISK". Oh crap. So, the MC is stalling and stalling. I run to get another disk. Same thing. "NO DISK". So the promotor comes over (MC still stalling) and asks if ill just go out and hit some shots to house music. Sure. So I get out there and im expecting something like "Welcome to the Jungle" or some Rage Against the Machine.....whatever. Something tough. Well, I think the DJ must have been pissed off and went right into his "queer" music file and played the number one hit. I dont even know what it was but it was IMPOSSIBLE to pose to. Especially for someone like myself who's routine is based on ALL power shots. It was some bubble gum, nancy pants, girls night out music. I wanted to just sit down on stage and start laughing. But.....I hit some power shots to the queer ball music. Laughed a bit.....and I think I skipped around the stage a bit. Yep, I skipped. I had to make light of it. Soooooo........I roll with it. Im sure people thought the routine a bit odd.

Ok.....so now the night show is FINALLY over.......it took forever and I actually left and came back b/c I was really tiring of it all. They brought us up for awards and I got FIRST!!!!! WOW. That was an awesome. It was especially awesome considering the competition in my class......and you'll see once i post pics. It was a big, tough class. Probably the toughest competition I have been in yet.

So, I run off and immediately need to keep pumped for the overall starting in like 5 min. Im standing there looking at these guys and just saying "oh crap". The heavy and light heavy are just like something from another planet. Just BIG. Not only big, but shredded. The Light heavy, Larry, and the welter weight were super cool guys, wishing everyone luck and shaking hands. Its good to be around gracious guys like that. So, I knew going up there that was not a shoe-in for the card. But, I pumped up well with the sodium and water back in me and I posed my heart out. I hit every shot with max intensity until the end. THey moved me out of the center within the first few poses so I knew the gig was up, but I just kept hitting em. In the pose down, I went right up front and tried to get some MM shots in next to the (eventual) winner. I just had a blast. This was probably the most interesting and most rewarding shows I have ever been to. Not to mention all the GOODIES I took home with me. Let me tell you......Mike Halsey takes care of his competitors. We walked away with a GROCERY bag of supplements and thats no exaggeration. FULL 2 lb tubs of protein, RTD's, samples, a FULL loaf of protein bread, two t-shirts, magazines, etc. He also had food out for competitors....rice crispy treats, bananas and water back stage. It was really awesome.

OK.....almost done. Afterward, we went to Red Lobster for the the all-you-can-eat shrimp deal. OH MAN. We talked to the waiter and explained to him that I have been dieting for 21 weeks and I am basically starving to death so get ready to roll out the shrimp because we are big eater AND big tippers. So, he did. And did. And did. That waiter was the MAN. He just kept bringing shrimp plate after plate. And we had even stopped eating because everyone was stuffed and he still brought out like (no joke) 8 more plates of shrimp. We took home 5 carry-home containers full of shrimp. Fried shrimp, shrimp scampi, glazed, grilled, etc. GOOOOD stuff. Then, my wife and I stopped at Wegmans on the way home to get me some Ben and Jerry's. I downed the whole thing. All 1200 calories. Went to bed, fat, bloated and on cloud nine.

Ill get some pics up later!

I saw your pics and you can tell the difference in your quads and abs, you have a much crisper look than you did at the other show pics you posted.

A few thoughts why you cramped.

1) Usually friday night I reintroduce sodium with an outback meal, filet mignon, potato, cheesecake and wine. High sodium high fat. this is after one is dry. The next morning I use pancakes which are also high sodium.
2) based on someones look Ill add up to 1/2 gallon of water back prior to pumping up, we did this with chris
3) you may want to look into Solaray multi minerals, they keep the quality minerals in the body that may flush or dilute with a water taper. I had one gal not use them even though I told her too, and she was cramping, after troubleshooting this was the conclusion we drew....

Just some thoughts, I dont know exactly what your peak week was, but the fact that after you loaded sodium you werent cramping I think 1 & 2 would have done the trick.

Congrats on the win. Best Ive seen you.

Ss

[AustrianOakJr]

I'm just thinking things through,..I know a mini bulk/mini cut are pretty decent in the gain catagory,..maybe a cut all the way to contest shape may not be in my best interest if Iplan to put on some more size,..

that would be cool,..Chris and Oak meet again!!,..So I figure you'll have to hold off on winning your pro card until we meet up again! Can ya wait 2 years???


Yea, I wouldnt cut to contest levels......I dont know about you, but this crap screws me up. My hormone levels are tanked and its gonna take a lot of rehab on my metabolism to get me back up to normal calorie levels. Cant see how that would help make gains at all.

Can I wait 2 yrs? Well, ill be back on stage next year, so it all depends on how it turns out.....if I win my pro card, im not gonna decline it!! The question for me is whether I want to compete next fall or wait a little until spring of 2011. If I hold off until spring that will give me a FULL year to bulk as opposed to only 8 mos.

[stayfit2008]

Yea, I wouldnt cut to contest levels......I dont know about you, but this crap screws me up. My hormone levels are tanked and its gonna take a lot of rehab on my metabolism to get me back up to normal calorie levels. Cant see how that would help make gains at all.

Can I wait 2 yrs? Well, ill be back on stage next year, so it all depends on how it turns out.....if I win my pro card, im not gonna decline it!! The question for me is whether I want to compete next fall or wait a little until spring of 2011. If I hold off until spring that will give me a FULL year to bulk as opposed to only 8 mos.

Well,..I hope you get your Pro card next comp,..whenever it is! I was hoping my kid had a gymnastics meet up in Rochester,..They seem to be all to the west of Erie This season,..would have been cool to get a workout in with ya!

Hey,..also,..if you go camping next Spring,..let me know,..We could meet up in our Pop Up with you guys!

[AustrianOakJr]

I saw your pics and you can tell the difference in your quads and abs, you have a much crisper look than you did at the other show pics you posted.

A few thoughts why you cramped.

1) Usually friday night I reintroduce sodium with an outback meal, filet mignon, potato, cheesecake and wine. High sodium high fat. this is after one is dry. The next morning I use pancakes which are also high sodium.
2) based on someones look Ill add up to 1/2 gallon of water back prior to pumping up, we did this with chris
3) you may want to look into Solaray multi minerals, they keep the quality minerals in the body that may flush or dilute with a water taper. I had one gal not use them even though I told her too, and she was cramping, after troubleshooting this was the conclusion we drew....

Just some thoughts, I dont know exactly what your peak week was, but the fact that after you loaded sodium you werent cramping I think 1 & 2 would have done the trick.

Congrats on the win. Best Ive seen you.

Ss

Thanks for the congrats and the suggestions here. I think for my next prep, I am going to pay more careful attention to the hard sodium and potassium numbers so I can guage a little more accurately. My sodium load and taper is all done based on guesstimates of "shakes" when I salt my food. I think that I cut my sodium a little bit too much and combining that with the water taper might have been the issue. I know that cranking the water after pre-j only helped a little. It wasnt until I started loading that the problem went away.

I kept water cranking right through the morning of the show and then just eased back on it where I ended up about a 1/4 to 1/2 gallon shy of where I would have normally been by that point in the day. The salt was kept high until friday when I started to use less salt, but again, it wasnt actually measured. I think this is my downfall. I need to start measuring sodium in the weeks leading up to the contest so I can accurately taper it.

AS for how I looked.....when I compare the two comps, I was more vascular at the Olympus, hands down. Fullness was probably similar. As for dryness, its hard to tell because I greatly improved my color (and think ive got a good winning formula now), and the lighting was MUCH better at this last show than the Olympus. That said, in reality, I think I may have been a touch dryer, but nothing super substantial.

[AustrianOakJr]

Well,..I hope you get your Pro card next comp,..whenever it is! I was hoping my kid had a gymnastics meet up in Rochester,..They seem to be all to the west of Erie This season,..would have been cool to get a workout in with ya!

Hey,..also,..if you go camping next Spring,..let me know,..We could meet up in our Pop Up with you guys!

Yea, would be good to train with you again. See how you old guys with broken joints can train! HE he!

[BaFtub]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v439/mc_reflexx/NYs%20show/DSC07710.jpg
"SEAN SMILE"
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v439/mc_reflexx/NYs%20show/DSC07863.jpg
Sharp!
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v439/mc_reflexx/NYs%20show/DSC07865.jpg
MM
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v439/mc_reflexx/NYs%20show/DSC07864.jpg
Hands on hip
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v439/mc_reflexx/NYs%20show/DSC07871.jpg
Blazed aside Oak. Both didnt know they were side by side till back stage LOL

I have some vids , as said Ill get'em up later! Also have the Overall pose down!

[JimmyChitwood]

Great pics!! Blazed looked awesome - really sharp and detailed - abs look like they were chiseled from rock in those first shots. Wow. Great job, if you're reading this.

Looking forward to seeing these vids I keep hearing about!! Posedown and night routine should be good!

[stayfit2008]

Night Routine to "Mary Poppins",..Just a spoonfull of sugar!!

[AustrianOakJr]

Nice shots Baftub! Thanks. If you've got the vids, post them up. I guess it was my mom that took the night show vid, so I wont be able to get a hold of it for a while b/c she wont know how to upload it on the web.

My wife edited this one and thought it came out real well. Might be my favorite shot from the day.....maybe avatar worthy?

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg123/AustrianOakJr/2a5318dd.jpg

[Blazed]

Hey Oaky pooh, could you send me some of them pics of us?

[stayfit2008]

Nice shots Baftub! Thanks. If you've got the vids, post them up. I guess it was my mom that took the night show vid, so I wont be able to get a hold of it for a while b/c she wont know how to upload it on the web.

My wife edited this one and thought it came out real well. Might be my favorite shot from the day.....maybe avatar worthy?

http://i247.photobucket.com/albums/gg123/AustrianOakJr/2a5318dd.jpg

Oak,..you look like a Friken Gladiator in that pose!!

[J_Bo]

Oak,..you look like a Friken Gladiator in that pose!!

^^^

what he said!


I thought your legs were supposed to be a weak point or sumthin' :confused:

[NFLMASON]

Youre first meal looks like its covered in mold

[AustrianOakJr]

Hey Oaky pooh, could you send me some of them pics of us?

PM me your email, sucka.


Oak,..you look like a Friken Gladiator in that pose!!

Thats why I got the gladiator trophy, duh!


^^^

what he said!


I thought your legs were supposed to be a weak point or sumthin' :confused:

I was just saying that to my wife.....last year I was a bit embarassed of my legs......this year it seems like they have improved enough that they arent a glaring weak point. Next year, I plan to make them my strength.


Youre first meal looks like its covered in mold

You talking about my trash plate? Thats the meat sauce, my man. The sauce makes it. When I moved to Rochester some friends took me out for my first "plate" and I was all like......"that sounds freaking disgusting". Then, I saw the light. Then, I got fat. Yea, I am pretty sure these things contributed to my demise into fat guy land. I was chowing on at least 1-2 of these a week for a couple years. I figure one of these meals is gotta be 1500+ calories.....but MAN is it good.

[jked4life]

You talking about my trash plate? Thats the meat sauce, my man. The sauce makes it. When I moved to Rochester some friends took me out for my first "plate" and I was all like......"that sounds freaking disgusting". Then, I saw the light. Then, I got fat. Yea, I am pretty sure these things contributed to my demise into fat guy land. I was chowing on at least 1-2 of these a week for a couple years. I figure one of these meals is gotta be 1500+ calories.....but MAN is it good.

Garbage Plates are the single most awesome food known to man. They are only good if you get them from the original Nick's downtown. The ambiance is so much better there, lol. Food is a lot more tasty with fear of being stabbed, shot or robbed. We used to go there after hours, which made it all the more exciting ;)

Garbage plates were a part of the reason I too was a fat guy. A plate followed by a night out for beers is not the best way to keep the physique.

[ever1964]

That B&W shot is definitely the avatar shot. That is really awesome!

[liftjunkie06]

Sean, nice showing. Congrats on a great contest season. Glad you came out of it alive. ;)

So, Ben and Jerry's. What flavor? I almost always am drawn to the cookie dough, started on that when I was young, don't eat the stuff much but damn it's good.

[stayfit2008]

NICE!!!

http://i290.photobucket.com/albums/ll247/stayfit2008/2a5318dd-1.jpg

[J_Bo]

^^^ lol

You and those posters, Chris :D

[stayfit2008]

^^^ lol

You and those posters, Chris :D

:D,..I'm so greatfull Sean is a good sport!!!

[AustrianOakJr]

Garbage plates were a part of the reason I too was a fat guy. A plate followed by a night out for beers is not the best way to keep the physique.

Crap. Thats what I had planned for my next bulk cycle.


That B&W shot is definitely the avatar shot. That is really awesome!

Its winning me over.....


Sean, nice showing. Congrats on a great contest season. Glad you came out of it alive. ;)

So, Ben and Jerry's. What flavor? I almost always am drawn to the cookie dough, started on that when I was young, don't eat the stuff much but damn it's good.

The first night was New York Super Chunk and the second night was Dublin Mudslide. NY Super Chunk was better, by far.


NICE!!!



I laughed out loud when i saw your new poster. Awesome.

[stayfit2008]

If ya want I can edit it to whatever you want it to say,...would look pretty cool in a trophy room!

[JimmyChitwood]

The garbage plate... ahhhh... haven't had one in years. It's God's most fattening gift to man. Almost worth driving four hours for one. "It's so good! It's so good! Once it gets past your lips!"


By the way, I found another cool poster available...


http://i454.photobucket.com/albums/qq266/jimmychitwood95/2008%20Sean%20Contest/2a5318dd1-1.jpg

[BaFtub]

Apologies for such late posting, I have the Overall posedown but it's really craptacular quality as my camera would NOT zoom in correctly the entire time. I can still get it up if need be. Also have some back stage documentary when all of you were talking haha.

FotvcpTNTDw

[AustrianOakJr]

Yea, man. Post up whatever you got! Thanks.

[JimmyChitwood]

I found another poster...



http://i454.photobucket.com/albums/qq266/jimmychitwood95/2008%20Sean%20Contest/2a5318dd1-2.jpg

[AustrianOakJr]

I found another poster...





Brilliant.

[liftjunkie06]

This is great stuff. I can almost smell the "hot stuff" and pro tan. I had to make a new thread for the 2010 season. I can't live vicariously through you anymore.

BTW, the shots and vids are awesome.

[JimmyChitwood]

Brilliant

You didn't like it?

I found another one...



http://i454.photobucket.com/albums/qq266/jimmychitwood95/2008%20Sean%20Contest/2a5318dd1-3.jpg

[AustrianOakJr]

You didn't like it?

I found another one...





Even better.

Its a little bit of an out of the ordinary way to execute the quad pose, but I like it.....little extra "take a look at this hunk a man". Louie's dad showed me.

[stayfit2008]

Somehow I knew Tim would get in on the Poster beatings!!! :D

[fltallpaul]

Wow Oak great job. I just got back online today for the most part and this is the first place I looked. I am glad to hear you had such a great time at your show. Now I am really excited for my first OCB show next week. That trophy looks killer too. Great season this year buddy...couple class wins and I know that is going to feed your hunger for more.

The pictures look awesome, that heavyweight is pretty damn impressive but you definitely hold your own up there.

[AustrianOakJr]

Wow Oak great job. I just got back online today for the most part and this is the first place I looked. I am glad to hear you had such a great time at your show. Now I am really excited for my first OCB show next week. That trophy looks killer too. Great season this year buddy...couple class wins and I know that is going to feed your hunger for more.

The pictures look awesome, that heavyweight is pretty damn impressive but you definitely hold your own up there.

Thanks Paul....wish I could say I won my card as well, but im in no hurry. THis year ill pack on another 5 lbs of mass and go back at it next year with even better conditioning. Bring up the wheels, lower back and thicken the abs a bit. Hopefully that will be what I need for the big W.

Good luck with your next show....would be cool to get two cards in one season!

[Blazed]

PM Sent home slice.

You know I was thinking about it, its going to be really hard for me to stay away from the stage next year lol! I think I will tough it out and wait till early spring 2011.

[stayfit2008]

PM Sent home slice.

You know I was thinking about it, its going to be really hard for me to stay away from the stage next year lol! I think I will tough it out and wait till early spring 2011.

Ahhhhh 2011 huh,...hmmmmm,..could it be a Stayfit/Blazed competition somewhere????

[stayfit2008]

Hey Sean,..how did you chnage your avi? I tried and it erased my old one and won't post the new one.

[Blazed]

Possibly lol. I'll be gunning for my card. HARD.

I have my next 60 weeks of mass gain planned out already.

Starting prep Jan 8th 2011.

[stayfit2008]

Possibly lol. I'll be gunning for my card. HARD.

I have my next 60 weeks of mass gain planned out already.

Starting prep Jan 8th 2011.

We just may be on stage togetha!

[stayfit2008]

Gettin ready for the Worlds in NYC,...:D

[AustrianOakJr]

Gettin ready for the Worlds in NYC,...:D

Yes, and then im planning my funeral for shortly afterward. :)

[AustrianOakJr]

On a nice note, I woke up this morning and MOST of the bloat seems to be gone. Between the morning prior to my carb up and the monday after the show, I went from 162.5 to 174.5 lbs!!!! EEEK. Im back down to 168, which is only a couple lbs heavier than where I was naturally sitting prior to depletion and water load. Im hoping by week's end ill be back there and then I can start bringing carbs in to find that happy 1/2 lb per week weight gain. Plus, I gotta go out for wings with the guys this saturday.....so I gotta have some more room to fatten up!!

[JimmyChitwood]

Even better.

Its a little bit of an out of the ordinary way to execute the quad pose, but I like it.....little extra "take a look at this hunk a man". Louie's dad showed me.

Dude, don't misunderstand me by my public mockery. I actually like it. It is an effective quad pose, seriously, while also throwing in a modified most-muscular for the upper body, which is a clever use of your strengths to frame the pose. It's tough.

I just like demotivational posters.


Somehow I knew Tim would get in on the Poster beatings!!! :D

I wouldn't do it if I thought Sean didn't love it. He's historically been a good sport for stuff like this. Speaking of posters, why did you change your self-promoting-motivational-poster avatar?? No more moxie?? :) Speaking of which, I found another poster by the way...


http://i454.photobucket.com/albums/qq266/jimmychitwood95/2008%20Sean%20Contest/fatarseagainSmall1-1.jpg

[JimmyChitwood]

On a nice note, I woke up this morning and MOST of the bloat seems to be gone. Between the morning prior to my carb up and the monday after the show, I went from 162.5 to 174.5 lbs!!!! EEEK. Im back down to 168, which is only a couple lbs heavier than where I was naturally sitting prior to depletion and water load. Im hoping by week's end ill be back there and then I can start bringing carbs in to find that happy 1/2 lb per week weight gain. Plus, I gotta go out for wings with the guys this saturday.....so I gotta have some more room to fatten up!!

Did somebody say wings?

That is just incredible to me how much your bodyweight can swing. What would happen to you if you did not try to ramp up out of your diet, but instead just dropped right back into regular eating habits post-contest?

[stayfit2008]

I wouldn't do it if I thought Sean didn't love it. He's historically been a good sport for stuff like this. Speaking of posters, why did you change your self-promoting-motivational-poster avatar?? No more moxie?? :) Speaking of which, I found another poster by the way...



I hear ya,...these posters keep popping up everywhere! :D

[JimmyChitwood]

I hear ya,...these posters keep popping up everywhere! :D

OK, so maybe I'm a little out of control now... but I can't help it. Even if I am the only one that's laughing.

Speaking of posters, avatars, and such... the new avi is pretty cool. Have you considered fitness modeling? The new avatar looks like an advertisement. Pretty cool. Could probably sell a lot of baseball caps.

[AustrianOakJr]

Dude, don't misunderstand me by my public mockery. I actually like it. It is an effective quad pose, seriously, while also throwing in a modified most-muscular for the upper body, which is a clever use of your strengths to frame the pose. It's tough. ]

I know you love it.....or I would have gotten a PM saying get rid of the gay quad pose......



I wouldn't do it if I thought Sean didn't love it. He's historically been a good sport for stuff like this. Speaking of posters, why did you change your self-promoting-motivational-poster avatar?? No more moxie?? :) Speaking of which, I found another poster by the way...



HA! I just about fell out of my chair on that one. Very nice. If you could photoshop a bucket of chicken wings into my arms, that would really set it apart as a nice piece of art.


Did somebody say wings?

That is just incredible to me how much your bodyweight can swing. What would happen to you if you did not try to ramp up out of your diet, but instead just dropped right back into regular eating habits post-contest?


Yea, man. WINGS. The new Anchor Bar has taken up residence here in Rochacha. The guys in the Bible study have been talking about bringing me out once im done to see "old Sean" let loose for a while. You should come. Bring the boy. I bet he can house some wings now that you've got him started on the Tums.

Its amazing to me too that there can be that much of a swing. Seems like I hold a solid 4-5 lbs of glycogen/water in the muscle, so that brings me up to about 166 lbs all full and loaded for the show, then after 24 hrs of binging, I spill probably another 2-3 lbs of water into the interstitial space and blur like you wouldnt believe (shoulda taken pics), then theres gotta be a couple pounds filling the intestines and probably a full pound of fat added from eating so far over maintenance for 48 hrs. So, it does seem kinda crazy until you think about what that weight breaks down into......most of its gone and im back to eating close to maintenance.....basicly my diet with 50 or so extra grams of carbs. Feeling good!

[stayfit2008]

OK, so maybe I'm a little out of control now... but I can't help it. Even if I am the only one that's laughing.

Speaking of posters, avatars, and such... the new avi is pretty cool. Have you considered fitness modeling? The new avatar looks like an advertisement. Pretty cool. Could probably sell a lot of baseball caps.

I like how we crop our faces out of the avi's! Lord know if I show my mooley mug,..No one would be buying hats!

Look at Oak,.he got rid of his whole avi all together!! :D Thats sayin alot!