Tag bodybuilding

Selecting Board Shorts For The Stage

drstaceynaito Leave a comment

Originally published on mensphysique.com on Sunday, 16 October 2011. The text on the original post is all messed up, but I have repaired it here.

boardshorts
http://www.rxmuscle.com/blogs/the-look-skin-attitude-attire-and-persona/4343-selecting-board-shorts-for-the-stage.html

Many men aren’t exactly gifted with the ability to determine swhat looks best on them, especially when selecting board shorts to wear up on stage with glaring lights assaulting them from every angle. Here are a few tips to selecting a great pair for your competition.

1.Make sure to pay attention to proper fit. The shorts should hit low enough in the waistline to flatter your lat spread and make your waist appear nice and tapered. The shorts should also make your rear end look nice and lifted without any excess material creating a sagging or diaper effect. Make sure you don’t go too tight though! The shorts should not ride up your crotch or make the shape of your bait and tackle highly visible! Make sure the rise in the front lies flat and does not bunch up across your lower abdomen. Also make sure the rise isn’t so low that the shorts look like they are about to fall off.

2.Blues, greens, reds and orange tones tend to look nice on stage. Avoid khaki, brown, and dull gray as they tend to look very drab under stage lights. Be careful with white as it can become severely discolored by the spray tan solution.

3.Prints are okay, but don’t go too busy! You can select shorts which have a color blocking on them, or which have a print on them, but don’t go for a very wild pattern. You want the judges to look at your physique, not at the distracting graffiti print splashed across your shorts!

4.Try to find a pair that is distinctive so that you don’t end up wearing the same board shorts as another. In fact, it is always a good idea to have an extra pair on hand at a show in case this occurs.

Sexy Couple Shot By George Kontaxis

drstaceynaito Leave a comment

Ian and Me GK

This is Ian Lauer and me in Malibu from a couple of years ago, shot by the amazing George Kontaxis. I think you can tell that Ian and I were very much a couple then, but we are now just very good friends. He remains one of the most important and special people in my life and I am blessed to know him.

Picture Perfect With The Ladies: How To Model With A Female

drstaceynaito Leave a comment

Originally published on Tuesday, 29 November 2011

http://www.rxmuscle.com/blogs/the-business-fitness-modeling-and-showbiz/4796-picture-perfect-with-the-ladies-%E2%80%93-how-to-model-with-a-female.html

You may have modeled alone numerous times and are comfortable with your poses. This may lead you to think that posing with a woman is no different. However, there are numerous points to keep in mind any time you are at a shoot in which you are expected to pose with a lady.

First of all, don’t allow nerves to distract you from performing as expected. What helps tremendously with getting over any nervousness is to chat with the woman before the shoot in order to establish a comfort level. You don’t have to discuss anything in particular, but at least get an idea of her personality.

Be aware of the goal of the shoot. If the goal is to shoot a cover or an ad, you will most likely be the center of focus since many covers showcase the man while using the woman as a type of accessory. Fitness photographers are typically excellent at posing their models, which means you need to be able to follow direction without offering commentary on the poses you are being asked to do. If the photographer tells you to open your shoulders, or turn your head slightly more to the right, then just do it. Sometimes these microadjustments may be challenging since you have to hold a pose while also flexing and looking like you are having the time of your life. But all these elements are key in conveying the proper energy and mood through the images.

Move slowly between each pose and give the lady time to adjust as well. Remember that she needs to be in the proper pose as well. If you are asked to touch each other, perhaps with your hand around her waist and her hands on your chest or shoulder, be respectful of her. That being said, make sure that when you are both in a pose in which you are touching, you both look like you actually like each other, even if you can’t stand each other. Your poses and your facial expressions need to be genuine and believable.

Remember to carry yourself in a professional manner during the shoot. It doesn’t matter if you have the hots for your modeling partner remain a professional. If you must, you can ask for a date WELL after the shoot is over!

Why You Should Build A Show Strategy

drstaceynaito Leave a comment

Orignally published on mensphysique.com on Saturday, 01 October 2011

http://www.rxmuscle.com/blogs/the-life-inspiration-and-dedication/4258-why-you-should-build-a-show-strategy.html

victory TU
Perhaps you have already competed in risk-bookshelf-board-game-2one or more shows, or you are thinking of entering your first competition in men’s physique. The last thing you should do is enter a show with no forethought as to which shows might be better for you than others. If you want to get your feet wet, you may want to avoid the bigger shows right out of the gate because they can be intimidating and downright discouraging.
If you are selecting your first show, choose one that is local to you, a national qualifier, and one that is scheduled far enough out so that you have enough time to prep. I have seen many male and female competitors jump into a show at the last minute with little to no prep. If you are a seasoned competitor who always looks show ready, that’s one thing, but if you are not yet stage-worthy, you could damage your chances of placing high at future shows in the same region.

Remember that there are countless shows all over the United States throughout the year, so don’t rush into it. Plan things out and take your time. If you get a national qualification, great! But don’t rush onto that national stage just yet. The national circuit is quite different from the local and regional ones, and you could end up being a very small fish in a huge pond. This can be quite deflating, especially if you have done well at the local level. Keep in mind that the national shows gather the best of the best from all over the country (and Canada and Mexico for the North American), so don’t be surprised if your jaw drops when you see the caliber of competitors at national events.

While NPC USA and NPC Nationals are outstanding shows, they are huge shows and perhaps not the best ones to select for your national debut. If possible, ease into one of the other events. If you are in the south, consider Jr. USA. If you are near Chicago, consider Jr. Nationals. East coast residents could target Team Universe, while Canadian and Mexican citizens will have IFBB North American as their only national option.

Whichever competitions you select, make sure you bring your best physique possible onto that stage, and above all else, have fun up there!

Booty-Building Superset Routine

drstaceynaito Leave a comment

Originally published on RxGirl on Wednesday, 15 August 2012. The original post was published with white text on white background, so the only way to read it on the site is to highlight the text. To make things easier for everyone, I have copied and pasted the article here for you to read.

http://www.rxmuscle.com/rx-girl-articles/6311-booty-building-superset-routine.html

Booty Building Superset Routine

NPC Pittsburgh 2012

If I had given into my natural genetic setpoint which gave me a relatively flat booty due to my Japanese ancestry, I would never have transformed my posterior into what it is today. In recent years the quest for a round butt has been one of the most highly coveted physical attributes for women. In keeping with this highly sought goal, I am providing readers with a superset routine which will create the full and curvaceous look which fills out a pair of jeans nicely and turns heads in a good way!

THE ROUTINE
Make sure to move from one exercise within a superset to the next quickly, without rest. Once you have completed a superset, rest for 30 seconds then begin your next superset. Complete all sets in Superset 1, then complete all sets in Superset 2, etc.

Superset 1 –
5 sets of the following:
25 jump squats

20 stiff-legged deadlifts with dumbbells

15 stride jump crossovers How to do: Using a bench or plyo box, place one foot up on bench with that leg almost parallel to floor. Jump explosively over bench, springing off bench and landing with your other foot on the opposite side of the bench. Repeat on other side.

Superset 2 –

5 sets of the following:

15 walking dumbbell lunges

20 Butt Blaster

15 prone leg curls

Superset 3 –

4 sets of the following:

20 one-legged dumbbell deadlifts

20 one-legged cable kickbacks

Superset 4 –

20 one-legged leg press (lying on your side and pushing through your heel)

20 plie dumbbell squats holding dumbbell between legs with wide stance and squatting LOW

12 barbell good mornings

Dry Skin Is Not Sexy

drstaceynaito Leave a comment

Originally published on mensphysique.com on Wednesday, 07 September 2011

http://www.rxmuscle.com/blogs/the-look-skin-attitude-attire-and-persona/4101-dry-skin-is-not-sexy.html

There is nothing sexier than a man with a chiseled physique whose skin is like polished wood, healthy, smooth, and even. Yet I see so many male competitors who don’t seem to care about the appearance of their skin, and who sport an epidermis which looks and feels like a piece of driftwood.

Healthy skin that glows looks amazing onstage, takes spray tanner better, and reflects the optimal diet which competitors should be practicing. So how does one get such healthy skin?

There are general guidelines which should be followed:

Avoid long hot showers

Moisturize regularly, preferably right after you shower

Wear sunblock regularly

Increase water intake

Consume healthy fats with omega-3 fatty acids

Exfoliate with scrubs, washcloths or loofahs

Since skin is the largest organ system, and also since it reflects a person’s overall health, it is imperative to take the above steps to ensure that your skin will look its best.

Get Revved Up For The New Year!

drstaceynaito Leave a comment

Golden 2015 Happy New Year Greeting Card With Sparking Spot Ligh
Every year we have the opportunity to start fresh with a brand new set of days to change our attitudes and tackle our goals. Many people start the new year with resolutions to embark on diet and fitness programs in an effort to get into the best shape of their lives, improve their health, or perhaps enter a bodybuilding contest. I am bracing myself for the influx of new gym members this month because I know they will pack my local gym, but I am also well aware of the attrition rate which also occurs each year. I applaud anyone who makes the effort to change old habits and who truly commits to a regular exercise program and clean meal plan, and believe it is important to implement supplements which can boost energy levels and hasten fat loss and weight loss efforts.

Two of my favorite fat burner supplements are SWAT Fuel’s 9mm and 9mm+P, both of which deliver sustained energy with no jitters or crash. These thermogenic capsules were formulated with military personnel and law enforcement offers in mind, who must remain razor sharp through long vigils and who must also wield weapons which require precision aim. A case of the jitters in these individuals could be disastrous, so it is reassuring to know that 9mm and 9mm+P deliver on their promise of steady and long lasting energy. The 9mm+P formula contains an appetite suppressant which is extremely effective in halting cravings and preventing overeating. Both of these products are also excellent for anyone who wants more energy, whether it be for a workout or for work.

Be sure to check out SWATFuel.com and order directly from them!

Perfect Stage Makeup

drstaceynaito Leave a comment

http://www.rxmuscle.com/rx-girl-articles/6198-perfect-stage-makeup.html

The original post was published on RxGirl.com on Monday, 30 July 2012. The text was white on white, so the text is tough to read unless you highlight the entire body of the article. To make it easier for everyone, I have copied and pasted the article here.

100906a6676
Let’s say you have decided to compete in your first contest and have already chosen your suit and accessories, booked your tanning appointment and, in an effort to keep costs down, decided to do your own makeup. If you have done stage makeup for other competitors then you most likely know what colors and techniques to use in order to avoid looking like a ghost onstage. However, if the extent of your makeup application skills has not ventured beyond bridal makeup and a nice going-out-on-the-town look, you might want to read on.

FOUNDATION:

First and foremost, the foundation you use needs to be DARK. I mean really dark. Generally speaking, the color on your face needs to be only a shade or two lighter than the color on your body after you get your spray tan. For those of you familiar with MAC Foundation colors, Studio Tech NW43 or NW45 are excellent foundation shades for the majority of competitors. However, I do not like MAC foundations because 1) they are extremely comedogenic, and 2) the compacts dry out very quickly. Instead, I use Bobbi Brown Stick Foundation in Warm Walnut and that works very well onstage.

Make sure to gently exfoliate your skin prior to the day of the competition, and use moisturizer and primer immediately before applying foundation. Though I usually use a foundation brush to apply foundation for photo shoots, when working with very dark foundations for stage I find that a makeup sponge works better than a brush in applying a nice, thin yet even layer. Make sure to extend foundation onto your neck, ears and hairline, feathering out and blending. Once this is done, dust some translucent setting powder over the foundation to set it. Chanel makes an excellent loose powder which I love both for daily use and for shows.

EYES:

Usually I will do my eye makeup first, then apply foundation since using a lot of black eyeshadow can often create a lot of dust which will ruin your foundation if you have applied it prior to your eye makeup. When choosing eyeshadow colors, avoid blues, greens and purples as they tend to look garish under the stage lights. Your best bet is to stick with neutral tones. You can never go wrong with a dramatic smoky eye. If you don’t know how to do a smoky eye, check out YouTube for some great smoky eye tutorials. Also check out the image in this article which shows a perfect smoky eye for the stage. Ideal colors to use for a stage-ready smoky eye are black, champagne or platinum, a beige base, brown and perhaps a warm pink.
eyemakeupsmoekyeyes9_thumb
Here are some guidelines for creating a smoky eye with the above colors:

1. Apply eye shadow primer. I like Too Faced Shadow Insurance.
2. Sweep a beige shadow (recommended: MAC Grain) over entire lid and up along browline.
3. Apply black eyeshadow (recommended: MAC Carbon) over lid but be careful NOT to extend beyond lid crease. Extend shadow beyond outer corner of eye in a V, angling towards brow. Blend well with a blending brush. Also apply black eyeshadow to the outer portion of the lower lash line.
4. Take a brown eyeshadow (recommended: MAC Brown Down) and work into crease at outer corners. Make sure to blend this well.
5. Take a warm pink (recommended: MAC Da Bling) and sweep it over the inner and mid-portion of the lid.
6. Apply the champagne (recommended: MAC Ricepaper) or platinum shade on the browbone, the center of the lid, and the inner corner of the eye.
7. Apply black liquid eyeliner along the upper lash line, sweeping up into a cat eye at the outer corners. Please refer to the image of cat eye liner for a guideline.

Don’t forget false eyelashes! Finish off with liquid eyeliner and lots of mascara.

Make sure to also fill in your brows. I find that shadows work much better than pencils at creating a flattering look.

FACE CONTOUR:

Make sure to use a blush which is dark enough to show up on your face. MAC Dollymix is an excellent color for stage. I tend to extend the blush a bit into the side of the cheek below the cheekbone to avoid a hollowed out look, and will add a bit of bronzer to the blush when I do this.

Your contouring powder also needs to be dark, making MAC Deep Dark mineralized skin finish ideal for such a task. Apply contouring powder in an “E” on each side of the face, starting at the temple, then sweeping under the cheekbone and then along the underside of the jawline and under your chin. Make sure to blend well! A bit of highlighting powder also looks lovely when dusted lightly on the apples of the cheeks, forehead and chin, but be sure to use a light hand.

LIPS:

For your lips, choose pink or red matte shades. Avoid frosted formulas, oranges and corals as they do not translate well onstage. Also apply clear or pink lip gloss over your lipstick for a nice finish. Before you go onstage, make sure to blot the inner part of your lips with tissue to ensure that no lipstick ends up on your teeth.

IMPORTANT TIPS:

If you are nervous about how your makeup might look on the day of the show, practice your techniques until you feel comfortable. Also, make sure to give yourself enough time to apply your makeup on the day of the competition without feeling rushed. It is far better to start very early and have extra time to relax AFTER your makeup is applied than to be rushed and perhaps unable to complete your makeup application before stepping onstage.