The 2nd Annual MuscleTech $50,000 Transformation Contest Presented By BodySpace.

[declanjames]

Originally Posted by BackInAction

So I am kind of down about this whole competition. I am realizing many of the people in it are from last years competition and basically planned on getting out of shape or a little heavier so they could "transform" back to normal for the contest. LAME!!! This eans your essays last year saying how this has changed your life and the ones you are going to write this year about what a great life change are all bull****. There was no planning, on my part, for this competition and I am going up against people that are just out doing contest after contest. It sucks for the people that genuinely took this contest seriously and wanted to make a change and keep that change, not just change for the contest then gain weight leading up to the next years contest.

Just ranting a little but there is a week to go and I feel like this was for nothing cause I am probably going to get beat by people that planned for it months before it started.

It sounds like you are making excuses before you are finished. You are contradicting yourself. On one hand you are dissapointed that you will not win and the contest is for nothing because someone else will win. On the other hand you are not doing this for the money but to show that it can be done. Which you do not need a contest to do!

If you did the work and got the results then you will have a chance to win AND be able to show others it can be done.

You do not know the circumstances surounding others transformations... If I remember correctly Animal said he was stuck for months and could not train or eat properly. Who really cares. The best transformation should win. If someone gained 20 or 50 lbs in preperation for this contest then they are able to shed it and come in ripped and maintaining most of thier muscle they will probably have a better chance to win.

Did you do everything you could possibly do to win this thing. (not that that is what was important to you) Did you find a personal trainer or bodybuilder to walk you through step by step how to reach your goals? Did you check in with them every week to make sure you were on track? Did you train harder than you could ever imagine possible and get up the next morning and do cardio? Are you realizing now that you did not do everything you COULD have done to win this and now you are going to make an excuse as to why you THINK you will not win?
You had 18 weeks to make the most dramitic transformation possible. You don't think some couch potato could have made a big enough change in 18 weeks to win this contest. The reason bodybuilders will do well in this contest is they know what it takes to reach these goals. The right couch potato with the right mindset and correct coaching could win this thing easy.
You really think if you followed Todd's plan from day one diet, cardio and strength training you would not be in a better position to win? How do you think the competition would look if everyone in this contest did what he did? I am pretty sure he did his transformation in 12 weeks. You had 18!

How about all the couch potatoes who are saying they are making a life change and then go on to post pics of pizza and all that other crap they cannot wait to eat. Why don't you belittle them?

The judges will choose who they think made the best transformation.

[justboo2u]

Originally Posted by rescuemadden

Excuses......excuses....excuses.....excuses.....ex cuses!

Okay... here's one for ya.

I am offically withdrawn. This month I found I have Lymphoma and, between multiple trips to the hospital (1 hr away) and a shift change at work I have not made what I consider adequate improvement (based upon last year's images)... as well as the obvious mental difficulty...

Excuses, excuses, excuses!

Yes, they ARE excuses. I cannot rationalize them any other way. I can only continue working on my inadequate attitude and return

Better, stronger, faster. We can (and have) rebuild(t) him...

This contest (and the previous 1.25 years) have proven that.

Unless this cancer kills me you can expect to contend with me next year! (presuming there IS a next year!)

Best of 'luck' to those of you who remain! Some damn fine work there!

[rescuemadden]

Originally Posted by justboo2u

Okay... here's one for ya.

I am offically withdrawn. This month I found I have Lymphoma and, between multiple trips to the hospital (1 hr away) and a shift change at work I have not made what I consider adequate improvement (based upon last year's images)... as well as the obvious mental difficulty...

Excuses, excuses, excuses!

Yes, they ARE excuses. I cannot rationalize them any other way. I can only continue working on my inadequate attitude and return

Better, stronger, faster. We can (and have) rebuild(t) him...

This contest (and the previous 1.25 years) have proven that.

Unless this cancer kills me you can expect to contend with me next year! (presuming there IS a next year!)

Best of 'luck' to those of you who remain! Some damn fine work there!

You are strong and have a great attitude! People like you put me to shame......this is only a contest...not life...I'm sorry for your troubles.

[IronCharles]

Originally Posted by justboo2u

Okay... here's one for ya.

I am offically withdrawn. This month I found I have Lymphoma and, between multiple trips to the hospital (1 hr away) and a shift change at work I have not made what I consider adequate improvement (based upon last year's images)... as well as the obvious mental difficulty...

Excuses, excuses, excuses!

Yes, they ARE excuses. I cannot rationalize them any other way. I can only continue working on my inadequate attitude and return

Better, stronger, faster. We can (and have) rebuil(d)/(t) him...

This contest (and the previous 1.25 years) have proven that.

Unless this cancer kills me you can expect to contend with me next year! (presuming there IS a next year!)

Best of 'luck' to those of you who remain! Some damn fine work there!

Get better , Boo! Come on back and win this thing next year!

As for people questioning other people's motivations..... I learned long ago that there is no sense in worrying about things you cannot control. Who cares what somebody else is doing, or why? Just do the best you can, and accept whatever you have earned! If you do your best, and don't win, then you got beat by someone who's best was better than yours.

Look at my progress pics. If I take 500th place, you know what? I'm still a winner! I feel better about myself, look better, am stronger, healthier, and with a better view of what my future holds. If I don't win, hey, maybe I'll try again next year! And the year after that! This contest has been a blast, and great motivation for me when I may have been down, or tired, or tempted to eat the pizza, or whatever. Maybe I'll just keep on getting bigger and come in to compete with the big guys, like Csuponcic, TMan, Kevinvu, Teamface, and the other experienced BB'ers. Maybe I'll get blown away buy a skinny/fat old guy like that IronCharles back in 2009! But it will be fun, and I'll get to compete, and learn from you guys again, maybe I'll have the experience to impart to some guy who will be trying this contest for the first time!

Believe in yourselves, people! Don't sit around crying for change, get up and make your own changes!

[rescuemadden]

Originally Posted by BackInAction

sure this will open a big can of worms but oh well...

Your transformation was great BUT from reading your posts it seems as though you think, since you won the competition, you are the man. All your posts putting up pics of yourself for "motivation" is a joke! Who does that...really!! Plus all the posts talking crap, you seem like you think you're the man now. Quit trying to encourage people with queer pics and snide remarks and throw in some positive encouragement. I shoot emails and pm's to people with positive remarks and compliments not pic of myself flexing in a mirror and telling them its for motivation.

UMMMM who puts pics up for motivation......well everyone on the site!!!! Good one though! That was well thought out like the rest of your comments!

You are so wrong it doesnt even require an answer on everything else.....Its easy to see you have issue's with your own self confidence.

[ryanmarkhardin]

I work with teenagers in the community as a youth minister at a church. With two children of my own, money is usually pretty tight these days. This was part of the motivation for me to enter the transformation contest. I had to get back in the gym to get my body in shape. Past experience has taught me that when I exercise my entire body feels great. It has been a struggle to get motivated. This was the first time I have ever tried to put on weight and train for looks rather than a specific sport. I have been diligent in my workouts; testing out new supplements, routines, and diets. I began taking creatine from Muscletech? and it helped increase muscle mass immediately! Entering this contest has started many interesting conversations with my students and colleagues. During the past four months, I put on as much as 14 pounds and I am down to no more than 9% body fat. I am stronger than I was in college! More importantly, I feel better than I?ve ever felt in my life! The absolute greatest thing about my transformation is that every facet of my life has changed for the better. I feel healthier spiritually, emotionally, and physically. I am a better husband, father, and youth minister because of my lifestyle change four months ago!

http://bodyspace.bodybuilding.com/ry...n=progresspics

[sdilly22]

Originally Posted by rescuemadden

What are you talking about? First...nobody ever said there would be another contest. Second, nobody knew the contest would be in Jan... Until Dec!

Third, I am living proof...it can be won against NPC level guys...and some others that seem to have this type of stuff dialed in. I found out 2 weeks after the contest started! I won!

Fourth, to say that our statements about life change in the essays are BS...is totally uncalled for and ignorant.

I did this competition knowing I couldn't win again! I have been practicing manipulating my body and making small changes each time....this is what bodybuilding is about....first try or 10th try! This happens to be my 2nd try! My transformation is about adding lean mass to my body! The first was about losing weight and keeping lean mass! TWO totally different transformations!!!!!

The guys from last year want to WIN!!!!!!!!!! Until they do...they are the same as you....working towards a goal and busting there ass! These guys are competitors and compete for totally different reasons then you seem to be. Whatever your reason, I wish you the best, but don't knock the others...no matter what their reason!

Remember, bodybuilding and the lifestyle are all about continually making changes...not just once and your done!

You need to want this for personal reasons...not the money! This contest is about more than money.

I agree with Csponic...possibly you have entered for the wrong reason!

So your saying my transformation wasn't real!!

i agree 100% i still think they should pick a none npc guy... mostly because i'm not an npc guy lol still going for number 1!!

[ryanmarkhardin]

more photos attached

[benmollman]

Originally Posted by ryanmarkhardin

more photos attached

Good work man way to go

[IronCharles]

Originally Posted by benmollman

Good work man way to go

Agreed! Congrats on sticking with it!

[Alex-Kane]

Originally Posted by declanjames

It sounds like you are making excuses before you are finished. You are contradicting yourself. On one hand you are dissapointed that you will not win and the contest is for nothing because someone else will win. On the other hand you are not doing this for the money but to show that it can be done. Which you do not need a contest to do!

If you did the work and got the results then you will have a chance to win AND be able to show others it can be done.

You do not know the circumstances surounding others transformations... If I remember correctly Animal said he was stuck for months and could not train or eat properly. Who really cares. The best transformation should win. If someone gained 20 or 50 lbs in preperation for this contest then they are able to shed it and come in ripped and maintaining most of thier muscle they will probably have a better chance to win.

Did you do everything you could possibly do to win this thing. (not that that is what was important to you) Did you find a personal trainer or bodybuilder to walk you through step by step how to reach your goals? Did you check in with them every week to make sure you were on track? Did you train harder than you could ever imagine possible and get up the next morning and do cardio? Are you realizing now that you did not do everything you COULD have done to win this and now you are going to make an excuse as to why you THINK you will not win?
You had 18 weeks to make the most dramitic transformation possible. You don't think some couch potato could have made a big enough change in 18 weeks to win this contest. The reason bodybuilders will do well in this contest is they know what it takes to reach these goals. The right couch potato with the right mindset and correct coaching could win this thing easy.
You really think if you followed Todd's plan from day one diet, cardio and strength training you would not be in a better position to win? How do you think the competition would look if everyone in this contest did what he did? I am pretty sure he did his transformation in 12 weeks. You had 18!

How about all the couch potatoes who are saying they are making a life change and then go on to post pics of pizza and all that other crap they cannot wait to eat. Why don't you belittle them?

The judges will choose who they think made the best transformation.

Ditto. The people who won, or who have thus far made great transformations all sought out the information they needed; either through books and magazines or through word of mouth. The excuse that you were out done by someone with more experience or knowledge IS a standard "coach potatoes" excuse. "Life is so crappy cause.... I can't do that cause...." This site and this forum specifically were made to share the knowledge that Csuponcic, TMan, Kevinvu, and Teamface and others knew already. And the fact that they posted pics isn't discouraging, but motivating. For me Csup's pics which had a Frank Zane appeal to them were motivating for me - reminding me that if I kept to this, one day I can be as symmetrical. But either way, I find the whole piece one lame excuse really. Even if some people "fattened" up before hand stll does not steal away from the fact that they had to work that fat off; even if they know how do it more "efficiently" than others. Learn from the experience and try again!

[speca1k]

4 days out, focus on your peak week guys. Just give it your all and you will not be disappointed with the outcome.

[TRANSMIGRATION]

Originally Posted by BackInAction

I am in because I felt like I could make huge gains and win this. Dont care bout the money or supps, I care about going from nothing to something and showing other people it can be done. If MT really wanted to sell products they would pick a winner that made a real transformation, a person that got off the couch and really did it and that would produce results. Not someone that bulks in an off season then cuts for the contest. This could go on forever.......F-it!


Exactly!! And the people that really just stumbled upon this and made an impressive life change will wind up sitting back and watching experienced bulkers and cutters work their magic and appear to transform. The true transformation comes from being a lazy ass to becoming a fitness freak. That to me deserves recognition.

Great job by the way man, happy to hear your life has changed!!

Originally Posted by rescuemadden

What are you talking about? First...nobody ever said there would be another contest. Second, nobody knew the contest would be in Jan... Until Dec!

Third, I am living proof...it can be won against NPC level guys...and some others that seem to have this type of stuff dialed in. I found out 2 weeks after the contest started! I won!

Fourth, to say that our statements about life change in the essays are BS...is totally uncalled for and ignorant.

I did this competition knowing I couldn't win again! I have been practicing manipulating my body and making small changes each time....this is what bodybuilding is about....first try or 10th try! This happens to be my 2nd try! My transformation is about adding lean mass to my body! The first was about losing weight and keeping lean mass! TWO totally different transformations!!!!!

The guys from last year want to WIN!!!!!!!!!! Until they do...they are the same as you....working towards a goal and busting there ass! These guys are competitors and compete for totally different reasons then you seem to be. Whatever your reason, I wish you the best, but don't knock the others...no matter what their reason!

Remember, bodybuilding and the lifestyle are all about continually making changes...not just once and your done!

You need to want this for personal reasons...not the money! This contest is about more than money.

I agree with Csponic...possibly you have entered for the wrong reason!

So your saying my transformation wasn't real!!

I think BOTH of you are right to an extent. Sure some guys may have planed on this contest again even though it was not announced and maybe that's not fair if they are semi-pro or advanced in this type of competition - but that is where Rescuemadden's statement comes into play, it's no excuse for you not to push hard just because you think someone might have the upper hand, Rescuemadden made a awesome transformation knowing he was up against seasoned vets but he DID IT anyway. BackInAction if your pissed about the people being in the contest again this year then that's just more the reason for you to push harder and not to give up. Fair or not it's anyone contest, it's who pushes the hardest and comes in looking the best who will win.

[flynn23]

Originally Posted by ryanmarkhardin

more photos attached

ryan great transformation man!

I love that people are starting to finish up! it sure is getting exciting!

hit the weights hard and hit the cardio harder! we are almost there keep it up guys

[BackInAction]

Originally Posted by TRANSMIGRATION

I think BOTH of you are right to an extent. Sure some guys may have planed on this contest again even though it was not announced and maybe that's not fair if they are semi-pro or advanced in this type of competition - but that is where Rescuemadden's statement comes into play, it's no excuse for you not to push hard just because you think someone might have the upper hand, Rescuemadden made a awesome transformation knowing he was up against seasoned vets but he DID IT anyway. BackInAction if your pissed about the people being in the contest again this year then that's just more the reason for you to push harder and not to give up. Fair or not it's anyone contest, it's who pushes the hardest and comes in looking the best who will win.

I am not sure at what point this turned into my excuse. Its not an excuse and has not changed my dedication to the contest at all. I came in thinking this was a contest in which everyone would be out of shape ready to make a life change, thats the point of a transformation contest.....to transform every aspect of your life. Thats my fault for going in thinking that. The longer this has gone on and he more posts I read, I realize that its basically just a bodybuilding competition with half the entries being true transformations. No excuses here man just said what was on my mind......my bad to everyone for voicing my opinion.

[willymongo]

I for one am a former reclyner potato who thinks he has a chance at winning, if not maybe top ten. I and many others have worked very hard and like IronCharles said Knowing that I gave it my all will ultimately, no matter what the results, will be satisfying.
No excuses, I am not going for the sympathy vote. We all have hard things in our lives. I want the judges to see my work and judge me on that not the fact that I have it so hard.
just my 2 cents.

[TRANSMIGRATION]

Originally Posted by BackInAction

I am not sure at what point this turned into my excuse. Its not an excuse and has not changed my dedication to the contest at all. I came in thinking this was a contest in which everyone would be out of shape ready to make a life change, thats the point of a transformation contest.....to transform every aspect of your life. Thats my fault for going in thinking that. The longer this has gone on and he more posts I read, I realize that its basically just a bodybuilding competition with half the entries being true transformations. No excuses here man just said what was on my mind......my bad to everyone for voicing my opinion.

LOL -Oh I see. I thought you meant it was a excuse for you not finishing but you ARE finishing - I see. Well in that case I see your point %100. I see some guys that appear to be bulked in off season and then come in trying to TAKE the gold from REAL people that have NEVER done anything like this and are making a LIFE change, not just a bulk then thin out and repeat. I know lots of the people in this contest have been over weight almost all of there adult life or skinny with no muscle all of there adult life and to have a seasoned player come in and try to take that spot light from a normal everyday person may seem a little unfair or unethical.

But that's life and we must deal with it (it will still come down to the best transformation) - and don't get to down bro, the judges are NOT idiots.

[Respectmyhouse]

Originally Posted by sdilly22

i agree 100% i still think they should pick a none npc guy... mostly because i'm not an npc guy lol still going for number 1!!

yea i hear ya lolol i cant belive how much all these guys from last year changed again im sure its not easy to stay as ripped as they have gotten i know i cannot stay as lean as i am year around lol i honestly felt a lil better when i was around 195 200 then i do now lol i look tighter and cut and get more attention from girls like this but i will probaly try to maintain for the summer and go bak to around 200 and try to stay as lean as i can from there and maybe winter do a nice clean bulk ( i never tried to actually gain weight once in my life lo l) and just add in plenty of cheat days (unless i get to stocky lol ) and is only fair everyone can compete though even though i was thinking that a real transformation is when a person actually just transforms and not transformed already and is just getting back to form but hey theres nothing in the rules against it and these guys are coming in like ripped demons so we gotta just go for it mr dilly your looking great bro and i love how you have stayed so ac tive and humble maybe you should make a video lololololol your style is like mine i wish you luck for real brother madden animal special k you made crazy changes again and i know you worked just as hard or even harder than everyone else and i would wish yous luck but i cant spare any more and yous def dont need it

[TheTMan]

Originally Posted by Alex-Kane

Ditto. The people who won, or who have thus far made great transformations all sought out the information they needed; either through books and magazines or through word of mouth. The excuse that you were out done by someone with more experience or knowledge IS a standard "coach potatoes" excuse. "Life is so crappy cause.... I can't do that cause...." This site and this forum specifically were made to share the knowledge that Csuponcic, TMan, Kevinvu, and Teamface and others knew already. And the fact that they posted pics isn't discouraging, but motivating. For me Csup's pics which had a Frank Zane appeal to them were motivating for me - reminding me that if I kept to this, one day I can be as symmetrical. But either way, I find the whole piece one lame excuse really. Even if some people "fattened" up before hand stll does not steal away from the fact that they had to work that fat off; even if they know how do it more "efficiently" than others. Learn from the experience and try again!

Exactly!!! If you didn't do your homework at this point, it's your fault. EVERYTHING you need to know is on the internet if you're willing to seek it out. I researched who the current natural pros are -- introduced myself and stated my purpose. I have plenty of emails with Layne Norton and a few of the guys on BB.com. Got in touch with Rob Lando and downloaded his pdf file -- developed my diet from their articles: 8 meals per day and did not miss ONE meal this whole time...haven't missed a workout. RESEARCHED. Read up on depletion strategies and have practiced them 3 times now (each time taking a week). I went and did 2 NGA shows out of state to further develop my endurance (believe me, they are tough); made all the arrangements with daycare for my daughter, spent 32 hrs total driving. Every 5 lbs I lost, I revamped the amounts of each food in my diet (and my refeed) to my new weight. I don't eat a chicken breast until it's been weighed on my food scale; every bowl of oatmeal is measured out -- everything is accounted for. I gave up BBQ sauce and ketchup, etc...all condiments. 3 gallons of water per day, period. All this while working and having full custody of my daughter and still somehow making my mortgage payment! (I don't get child support).

Someone was also complaining that some of us know how to pose better than others........~blink...blink~......STUDY! I watched countless youtube videos on this subject and have probably 500 pics in the last 11 weeks. You have sculpted your new physique, now learn how to present it for the audience! And trust me, I've had little social life this whole time...every second of everyday has been focused on this competition....but for me there is no better way to spend my time!

Ok, I could go on and on...gotta take Kylee to school. ~peace out gladiators~

[TRANSMIGRATION]

Originally Posted by TheTMan

Exactly!!! If you didn't do your homework at this point, it's your fault. EVERYTHING you need to know is on the internet if you're willing to seek it out. I researched who the current natural pros are -- introduced myself and stated my purpose. I have plenty of emails with Layne Norton and a few of the guys on BB.com. Got in touch with Rob Lando and downloaded his pdf file -- developed my diet from their articles: 8 meals per day and did not miss ONE meal this whole time...haven't missed a workout. RESEARCHED. Read up on depletion strategies and have practiced them 3 times now (each time taking a week). I went and did 2 NGA shows out of state to further develop my endurance (believe me, they are tough); made all the arrangements with daycare for my daughter, spent 32 hrs total driving. Every 5 lbs I lost, I revamped the amounts of each food in my diet (and my refeed) to my new weight. I don't eat a chicken breast until it's been weighed on my food scale; every bowl of oatmeal is measured out -- everything is accounted for. I gave up BBQ sauce and ketchup, etc...all condiments. 3 gallons of water per day, period. All this while working and having full custody of my daughter and still somehow making my mortgage payment! (I don't get child support).

Someone was also complaining that some of us know how to pose better than others........~blink...blink~......STUDY! I watched countless youtube videos on this subject and have probably 500 pics in the last 11 weeks. You have sculpted your new physique, now learn how to present it for the audience! And trust me, I've had little social life this whole time...every second of everyday has been focused on this competition....but for me there is no better way to spend my time!

Ok, I could go on and on...gotta take Kylee to school. ~peace out gladiators~

Yeah - it's a real toss up in my mind. I'm so conflicted by this whole subject. I mean either way you have a chance of winning - it just takes hard work on everyone's part. I really should just agree that everyone has put in tons of hard work and leave it at that. lol.

It's very difficult to agree with either side. I see a guy sitting on the couch that has never lifted in his/her life and see's a commercial about this transformation. Take MuscleTech and try to win $50,000!!! At bottom of screen it says *You can not enter if you have a PRO CARD or are affiliated with, have family or are employed by MuscleTech*

Guy then thinks wow! This is for me, this is for a everyday guy. He buys his supplements and buys a gym membership. Keep in mind he/she has never worked out, or has never visited BB.com. He/she busts butt for 16 weeks and makes a impressive transformation only to have it taken by a semi-pro guy. lol.

It's really hard to agree.

But then you have your educated bodybuilder (semi-pro) that is not pro and is like Man this is for me!!! I can do this, this is my chance to make it big!! He/she bust butt just like everyone else.

New to the game or old. I agree with both sides if that's possible... LOL...

[graffalanamous]

In my opinion the couch potato almost has an advantage over the seasoned vets. If you haven't been lifting weights (like a couch potato) then there is a good opportunity to add some lean mass while losing fat at the same time. The season vets will unlikely be able to add much if any muscle, because it gets harder to come by the longer you change. Couch potatos also present the possibility for a more dramatic transformation. The biggest problem with the couch potatoes is whether they can step in and bust ass from day one or whether "20 minutes of easy cardio should be enough since I'm just starting" and "I worked out hard today so maybe I'll finish my kids happy meal". No you have to bust ass from day one, something alot of couch potatoes will have problems with because bad habits die hard. I know when I started doing HIIT I thought I was kicking the crap out of my self pretty good. An I know how to take pain while training (been an athlete all my life). Compared to the HIIT I'm currently doing my hit from 8 weeks ago was a joke. Now when you get a couch potato that can train with relentless vigor the entire transformation, that for some reason doesn't need the warmup period, that's inherently tougher and gutsier than 99.9% of the population...that's when it's scary. If I had trained with the same intensity I currently train with the entire time, you guys wouldn't have a chance. But that's another excuse now isn't it? I have decided to also enter the other muscletech contest, which gives us all who may not have got fully conditioned another 7 or 8 weeks. There will be no more excuses then. I invite all of you to continue your quest for the body you want, especially if you've been "needing more time". Most people will look back and find things they think they could have done better, whether it be pushing harder on the cardio, with weights, or with their diet. The winner will probably look back and say they couldn't have done a single thing better. The winner will have been relentless for the entire transformation. Holy smokes that's long!

[auman]

Gentlemen, let's all be gentlemen.
This is the home stretch. Time to fine tune your bodies.
MuscleTech is going to reward the best overall transformation. It's not unfair for someone who is familiar with the game to be competing. The prize will still go to the best overall transformation. Broken record, I know. But why worry about things you can't control? The only thing you can control is you. Do your best, and accept how things shake out. If you win, congratulations! If not, keep at it.
As far as the judging goes, who knows what they are after. What demographic do you think they are going for? It's a business, so do they want to reward the transformation of someone who has never purchased a supplement until now and try to generate business from a totally new customer base, i.e. the couch potato that got motivated for this contest? Or do they reward the guy who knows his way around a gym, already buys supplement, just not necessarily Muscletech? In 6 months, which one of these contestants will still be buying Muscletech Supplements? And which of these transformations will help to sell more Muscletech supplements to more customers. I'm not sure I know the answer to that, but again, it's out of my control. So just do the best you can.
-Greg.

[willymongo]

Originally Posted by graffalanamous

In my opinion the couch potato almost has an advantage over the seasoned vets. If you haven't been lifting weights (like a couch potato) then there is a good opportunity to add some lean mass while losing fat at the same time. The season vets will unlikely be able to add much if any muscle, because it gets harder to come by the longer you change. Couch potatos also present the possibility for a more dramatic transformation. The biggest problem with the couch potatoes is whether they can step in and bust ass from day one or whether "20 minutes of easy cardio should be enough since I'm just starting" and "I worked out hard today so maybe I'll finish my kids happy meal". No you have to bust ass from day one, something alot of couch potatoes will have problems with because bad habits die hard. I know when I started doing HIIT I thought I was kicking the crap out of my self pretty good. An I know how to take pain while training (been an athlete all my life). Compared to the HIIT I'm currently doing my hit from 8 weeks ago was a joke. Now when you get a couch potato that can train with relentless vigor the entire transformation, that for some reason doesn't need the warmup period, that's inherently tougher and gutsier than 99.9% of the population...that's when it's scary. If I had trained with the same intensity I currently train with the entire time, you guys wouldn't have a chance. But that's another excuse now isn't it? I have decided to also enter the other muscletech contest, which gives us all who may not have got fully conditioned another 7 or 8 weeks. There will be no more excuses then. I invite all of you to continue your quest for the body you want, especially if you've been "needing more time". Most people will look back and find things they think they could have done better, whether it be pushing harder on the cardio, with weights, or with their diet. The winner will probably look back and say they couldn't have done a single thing better. The winner will have been relentless for the entire transformation. Holy smokes that's long!

You had me at hello

[TRANSMIGRATION]

Originally Posted by graffalanamous

In my opinion the couch potato almost has an advantage over the seasoned vets. If you haven't been lifting weights (like a couch potato) then there is a good opportunity to add some lean mass while losing fat at the same time. The season vets will unlikely be able to add much if any muscle, because it gets harder to come by the longer you change. Couch potatos also present the possibility for a more dramatic transformation. The biggest problem with the couch potatoes is whether they can step in and bust ass from day one or whether "20 minutes of easy cardio should be enough since I'm just starting" and "I worked out hard today so maybe I'll finish my kids happy meal". No you have to bust ass from day one, something alot of couch potatoes will have problems with because bad habits die hard. I know when I started doing HIIT I thought I was kicking the crap out of my self pretty good. An I know how to take pain while training (been an athlete all my life). Compared to the HIIT I'm currently doing my hit from 8 weeks ago was a joke. Now when you get a couch potato that can train with relentless vigor the entire transformation, that for some reason doesn't need the warmup period, that's inherently tougher and gutsier than 99.9% of the population...that's when it's scary. If I had trained with the same intensity I currently train with the entire time, you guys wouldn't have a chance. But that's another excuse now isn't it? I have decided to also enter the other muscletech contest, which gives us all who may not have got fully conditioned another 7 or 8 weeks. There will be no more excuses then. I invite all of you to continue your quest for the body you want, especially if you've been "needing more time". Most people will look back and find things they think they could have done better, whether it be pushing harder on the cardio, with weights, or with their diet. The winner will probably look back and say they couldn't have done a single thing better. The winner will have been relentless for the entire transformation. Holy smokes that's long!

True that man.

It's great that so many people can get something out of this. I see over weight people everyday now that I have changed and I just wish I could somehow help them. It's crazy how we as Americans have been programmed to eat fast food and live unhealthy life styles. Believe it or not most Americans do not work out, isn't that crazy. Not sure what the numbers are but I think it's a very HIGH % of Americans are over weight. Everyone here should be proud of what they have accomplished.

[TheTMan]

I always loved the 'inches' speech that Al Pacino gives in Any Given Sunday:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9rFx6OFooCs

[BackInAction]

Originally Posted by TheTMan

I always loved the 'inches' speech that Al Pacino gives in Any Given Sunday:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9rFx6OFooCs

love that movie!!

[CSuponcic]

Originally Posted by TheTMan

Exactly!!! If you didn't do your homework at this point, it's your fault. EVERYTHING you need to know is on the internet if you're willing to seek it out. I researched who the current natural pros are -- introduced myself and stated my purpose. I have plenty of emails with Layne Norton and a few of the guys on BB.com. Got in touch with Rob Lando and downloaded his pdf file -- developed my diet from their articles: 8 meals per day and did not miss ONE meal this whole time...haven't missed a workout. RESEARCHED. Read up on depletion strategies and have practiced them 3 times now (each time taking a week). I went and did 2 NGA shows out of state to further develop my endurance (believe me, they are tough); made all the arrangements with daycare for my daughter, spent 32 hrs total driving. Every 5 lbs I lost, I revamped the amounts of each food in my diet (and my refeed) to my new weight. I don't eat a chicken breast until it's been weighed on my food scale; every bowl of oatmeal is measured out -- everything is accounted for. I gave up BBQ sauce and ketchup, etc...all condiments. 3 gallons of water per day, period. All this while working and having full custody of my daughter and still somehow making my mortgage payment! (I don't get child support).

Someone was also complaining that some of us know how to pose better than others........~blink...blink~......STUDY! I watched countless youtube videos on this subject and have probably 500 pics in the last 11 weeks. You have sculpted your new physique, now learn how to present it for the audience! And trust me, I've had little social life this whole time...every second of everyday has been focused on this competition....but for me there is no better way to spend my time!

Ok, I could go on and on...gotta take Kylee to school. ~peace out gladiators~

I could't agree more Tman. Theres talk on here like the vets are sponsered and just eat, sleep and breath this comp. Well most of us work and put in some serious hours just to make the money to support ourselfs and the lifestyle. I've seen college kids on here posting who have all the time in the world to train and prepair there meals who say how they sleep 10 hours a day. Im lucky if I get 10 hours in 2 days. When it all comes down to it the guy or girl that wins is the one who wanted it the most.......and is the most marketable for MuscleTech haha.

[speca1k]

I read a survey saying 90% of american adults don't exercise...that is disturbing

Work as hard as you can, you determine your level of success. If you decide success is winning the contest then you need to work as hard as you can to make sure that happens. If you decide success is losing 30 lbs and developing the knowledge of how to keep it off and live a healthy lifestyle then its up to you to make it happen. Don't worry about other peoples' starting points or skill level, focus on yourself and use others' progress pictures as motivation to work harder. When the contest is over and people stop posting on this forum, will you be satisfied with the results? Thats what you should work towards.

Not sure if there is confusion, I'm not the specialkr from last year. just wanna clarify that.

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Originally Posted by thepackleader

Please, be supportive of each other. Each and EVERY person who is finishing made sacrifices. They either studied this time or studied at one time to figure this stuff out. Each person put in hard work on weights and cardio. Each person pushes themselves to keep going no matter what. Some people's bodies may have responded better than others, but that doesn't mean that person didn't work hard. In turn the person who doesn't come out as ripped doesn't mean they are a cry baby and didn't work either. The person who wins is the person who put in the most work and wanted it more? Or horse crap. As said before judging isn't perfect. I think some of who have been in shows know it is not about who wants it more. It is about who the judges feel in THEIR eyes looks better.

Have fun to the finish people. Try to be a little kinder to each other. It goes a lot further.

I would be kinder by splitting this candy bar with all of you but I already finished

I would laugh if they pick you, not because you don't deserve it but because everyone is thinking about being ripped. Like you said you knew you wouldn't be able to come in as cut as some because of your starting point and maybe not cut at all. BUT you have made a awesome transformation and that's what they are looking for, right? Good luck to you bro and keep in mind I don't think anyone in here is mad, at least I'm not. Stick around - forums will have discussions and forums will have ups and downs.

[TRANSMIGRATION]

Originally Posted by speca1k

I read a survey saying 90% of american adults don't exercise...that is disturbing

Work as hard as you can, you determine your level of success. If you decide success is winning the contest then you need to work as hard as you can to make sure that happens. If you decide success is losing 30 lbs and developing the knowledge of how to keep it off and live a healthy lifestyle then its up to you to make it happen. Don't worry about other peoples' starting points or skill level, focus on yourself and use others' progress pictures as motivation to work harder. When the contest is over and people stop posting on this forum, will you be satisfied with the results? Thats what you should work towards.

Not sure if there is confusion, I'm not the specialkr from last year. just wanna clarify that.

LOL on the specialkr from last year confusion. Until about February I thought you where him but then realized that you're not. I wonder what topic we could bring up to pull the group back together as a team like we used to be. To bad we can't travel back in time to tell our selves certain things we should or shouldn't say to keep the peace. lol

*edit* What about this for a change of direction???