When people ask me how to get their articles featured in a major publication, I tell them they need luck, referrals, and persistence. Here’s how I did it. Right Place, Right Time On August 25, 1999, I appeared on Toronto’s Breakfast Television. As luck would have it, the editor-in-chief of Flare Magazine was in the…
I must admit—writing articles for pay isn’t what it used to be. There was a time when writers in the fitness industry were well-compensated for their work. Some even made thousands per article. The late Dan Duchaine, for instance, earned as much as $2 per word for his pieces back in the ‘90s. The Changing…
A common mistake during step-ups is pushing off with the non-working leg, either by extending the knee or ankle. To correct this, keep the knee locked, the ankle in dorsiflexion (toes up), and tap the floor with the heel only. I picked up this tip years ago from strength coach Charles Poliquin, who learned it…
In a research article titled Ethnopharmacology and Male Bodybuilders’ Lived Experience with Consuming Sports Nutrition Supplements in Canada, Brian Bailey found that bodybuilders often rely on personal experience and trusted sources when choosing sports nutrition supplements. (Read more here.) Bailey also noted a growing body of research on supplement efficacy in trained athletes. Among the…
As I mention in my article Radical Methods of Injury Rehabilitation, the standard procedure for most injuries involves anti-inflammatories and painkillers along with RICE: rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Normally, what do I recommend? Almost the exact opposite! The Problem with Traditional Methods No rest and no compression, use movement with traction instead. According to…
Some muscles may not be visible, but training them can enhance the appearance of larger muscle groups. Strengthening the pectoralis minor, brachialis, and soleus can help your chest, arms, and calves “pop out” more. A highly effective method for targeting these muscles is the 10×10 system—10 sets of 10 reps per exercise. This approach has…
For well-developed calves, both major muscles of the lower leg need attention: While most people focus on the gastrocnemius, training the soleus properly can make a noticeable difference in lower leg development. Why Train the Soleus? The soleus is made up mostly of Type I muscle fibers, meaning it contracts slowly, has a low tension…
Some muscles refuse to grow no matter how hard you train them. Often, the issue lies beneath the surface—literally. Strengthening deep muscles like the pec minor, brachialis, and soleus can help your chest, arms, and calves stand out. We’ve already covered how to train the pec minor. Today, let’s focus on the brachialis, a key…
When we bought our house, one of the kitchen’s selling features was a built-in microwave shelf. But instead of a microwave, we put a toaster oven in that spot—and it’s been a cherished kitchen appliance ever since. I won’t go into a long debate about why microwaves are harmful. Let’s just say if you shouldn’t…
If you’ve built enough muscle mass and want to refine your physique, think of yourself as a sculptor. The mirror is your block of stone, and the weights are your tools. It’s time to chisel away and shape your ideal look. Here’s a two-step process to help you achieve a more proportional and symmetrical physique….