Isaac Hinds | Ad watch, misc | Sunday, 07 February 2010, 10:23 pm
Super Bowl 44 is in the books with the New Orleans Saints beating the Indianapolis Colts 31-17. The Super Bowl is the one television event where most people look forward to the advertisements as much as they programming itself.
Overall I thought the ads were lackluster and nothing stood out as being memorable. Budweiser dominated with the most spots during the big game but most didn’t live up to previous years’ creative. Here are ads that caught my attention for various reasons…
Doritos “Tim”
Admittedly, I laughed but because it was so dumb. Really…Dorritos in the gym?
Doritos “House Rules”
This one is funny and cute. Kids and puppies usually get people’s attention when used right.
Denny’s “Screaming Chickens”
This screaming chicken spot reminds me of the Budweiser Wassup commercial but hey everyone can go to their nearest Denny’s on Tuesday for a FREE Grand Slam breakfast. I find perplexed, screaming chickens amusing for some reason. Perhaps it’s because I’ve been eating chicken every day for the last few weeks.
Careerbuilder.com “Casual Fridays”
Disturbing to see out of shape men in their whitey tidies but an accurate depiction of what most corporate men look like and why we don’t want to see them this casual.
Dockers “Men without Pants”
What is it with dudes without pants? Did the movie The Hangover inspire ad people to take this direction? There’s an amusing line in the movie where one of the characters is walking around without pants. Funny in the movie but again disturbing in this commercial.
Michelob Ultra “Little Bumps”
Nothing says working out and staying fit like a cold beer. Lance Armstrong pimp’n beer? A bit of a stretch.
Snickers “Game”
“You’re not you when you’re hungry”. I kinda like it. The best part is Betty White saying, “That’s not what you’re girlfriend says.”
Did you have a favorite commercial from this year’s Super Bowl?
Product
You’re busy. Between meetings, social events, and hopefully a workout or two, your schedule’s packed. Don’t you wish you could hand off simple tasks so you could have more time to play? That’s why we built Siri. Because we believe everyone could use an assistant. Because we believe there’s a simpler way to get things done. Just like a real assistant, Siri understands what you say, accomplishes tasks for you and adapts to your preferences over time.
Isaac Hinds | misc | Friday, 05 February 2010, 8:18 am
Thanks for visiting hardbody.com! Our traffic continues to increase every month and we had a record number of visitors. Check out the top ten search terms for January.
1. Gia Allemand
2. Katie Bopp
3. Missy Coles
4. Monique Minton
5. Kim Lyons
6. Felicia Day
7. Ab Circle Pro Girl
8. Amanda Latona
9. Jamie Ford
10. Amber Steel
Isaac Hinds | misc | Thursday, 04 February 2010, 4:48 am
This weekend the Indianapolis Colts will take on the New Orleans Saints in Super Bowl. The biggest Colts’ fan in the fitness industry has to go to the 2008 Ms. Figure Olympia, Jenn Gates. Doubt her love for her hometown team? Jenn’s son Peyton is named after the Colts’ quarterback, Peyton Manning. When it comes to the Saints, try to find a bigger fan than trainer Kim Oddo. Kimbo can be seen rock’n a Saints Jersey at shows and his team will finally get their chance on the big stage this Sunday.
Many people tend to watch the Super Bowl for the ads. It’s the one time a year more people watch ads on purpose.
It’s no secret that eggs and particularly egg whites are a source of high protein and used by many competitors. Some of you probably already ate egg whites today while others can’t stand them.
How often do you eat eggs/ egg whites?
If you are someone who does eat eggs/egg whites, check out www.incredibleegg.org for a variety of recipes and health facts on eggs. It’s a great site devoted to the egg. This is one of the commercials running for the web site…
Isaac Hinds | misc, videos | Thursday, 28 January 2010, 2:45 pm
Nichole Guenther is one of the top NPC National level Figure competitors in the biz today. When she’s not quarter-turning it out on stage, you might catch her working at the MuscleMilk booth. This time she’s been spotted on HGTV’s House Hunter’s International. The episode shows three Fiji homes for the Arizona fitness couple to choose from. Nichole tells me, “The people in Fiji are awesome and it was one of the most amazing experiences in my life.” Check out the episode here.
Isaac Hinds | misc | Wednesday, 27 January 2010, 1:54 pm
A number of people use the Sony Reader, Amazon’s Kindle or Barnes & Noble’s Nook to read books electronically. They are a pretty cool way to purchase and read books. Today Apple announced it’s own version plus a little more with the iPad. The iPad goes a few steps further than the other readers though. I won’t bore you with all the geek speak but for those of you who are interested in these types of gadgets check out the iPad.
The iPad can and I suspect will change the way photographers interact with prospective and current clients. They will not only have the ability to show their portfolios but can also display shoots. Look for magazines and newspapers to utilize this gadget as well. They will have the ability to display interactive ads and content.
Sure it isn’t perfect and some people are complaining about things it is missing. I don’t view it as a replacement to the laptop. I view it as a shift in the way people can and will interact with media.
Isaac Hinds | misc, videos | Wednesday, 27 January 2010, 1:31 pm
I was doing my morning cardio and caught Martha Stewart on the TODAY show. The woman usually bores me to death but this morning she was discussing the varieties of rice. It was fairly interesting to hear about the various types of rice and suggested uses. The disturbing part came when TODAY show host, Meridith tells Martha she likes to be entertained when she eats. When a pole is brought in Martha says, “I’ll gyrate right here.”
Isaac Hinds | misc | Wednesday, 27 January 2010, 7:47 am
I’m stoked to see this site continue to grow and gain new visitors every month. I receive emails, texts, instant messages and smoke signals (ok maybe not smoke signals) daily from visitors on a variety of topics. Some of you offer praise while others offer criticism. It’s all welcome. Lately, I’ve been receiving emails from people wanting me to post things happening in their corner of the world. It’s great however let me offer my two cents.
When sending me your news be short, to-the-point and tell me in a sentence or two why your news is unique. Tell me why it would benefit the readers of Hardbody. There are literally hundreds of people holding camps. I say sweet… the more the merrier as anything promoting Health & Fitness is fantastic. That said, what makes your camp different and why should I or anyone else care? You have a podcast, radio show or blog. Great but simply having one and having a pro on as a guest isn’t all the unique. You have a gym… again great but what’s unique about it? Location? Classes? You’re a trainer…okay thousands of those. So what? Tell me what you’re doing different and unique for your clients. There’s a growing trend in the competitive world of fitness/figure/bikini where people are starting “teams”. Again… LOVE IT! It’s a great way to get started and have a support system. When starting a team don’t copy what others are doing. Imitation may be a form a flattery however it can often make you look like a wannabe. Do something unique and make it your own. We all get inspiration from various sources but why would anyone want to join your team that is a cookie cutter replica of someone else’s when they can go to the original source?
Don’t stop sending in your news but when you do send me information think about how you’re unique.
Bodybuilding.com’s Jamie Eason caught up with Nita Marquez at last weekend’s Fit Expo. Nita is preparing for the Phoenix Pro where she will be competing in the IFBB Pro Fitness division. Anyone who has seen Nita’s routines knows she isn’t afraid to ham it up and show of her strength moves. Now it’s time for her daughter to show off a little strength but in the vocal department. Listen to these hardbody vocals.
Isaac Hinds | Industry News, misc | Monday, 25 January 2010, 10:08 am
IFBB Figure Pro Felicia Romero is preparing to make her 2010 debut in her own backyard at the Phoenix Pro Figure show. Despite the busy schedule of preparing for a contest, Felicia tells me she recently recorded a spot for a reality tv show in Arizona. The following story features Felicia and few other women regarding the potential reality show.
Are you buff? Reality show to feature pumped up Valley women
CHANDLER, AZ — Ladies, put on your workout clothes and get ready to pump some iron.
A reality TV show featuring buff Valley women is being shot in the Phoenix area.
The show, Iron Maiden, will follow the lives and workout routines of five women. Their goal? To take home as many fitness championship titles as possible.
“These women are the rock stars of the fitness world,” said co-creator Bill Stanton.
All the women in the show, he says, have at one point in their lives been out of shape or overweight. Each woman has her own inspirational story to tell.
Twenty four-year-old Katelynn Cashin battled anorexia growing up. She became a fitness model four years ago.
Cashin says her new lifestyle helped her overcome unhealthy eating issues and gave her a better outlook on life.
“I hear all the time that I’m intimidating,” she said.
Those compliments give her confidence level a boost.
Felicia Romero, 27, has been competing in fitness tournaments since college. She works at Fitness Works in the East Valley.
“This lifestyle is very hard,” Romero said. “So that’s the one thing that I would tell women is it’s not something that I wake up one day and I look like this. It’s something that takes a lot of work, a lot of effort.”
Stanton says they’re still shopping the show around and they’ve had a lot of networks interested in the program. He hopes it’ll be on TV next fall.
Isaac Hinds | Polls, misc | Sunday, 24 January 2010, 2:17 pm
I like to chew gum when I train but aside from that I normally don’t. I’ve talked to a few competitors who tell me they chew gum like crazy. Who knew? If you overheard the conversation you’d swear we were talking about smoking. Competitor X, “I really need to cut back, I’m over a pack a day.” What about you…
Isaac Hinds | misc | Sunday, 24 January 2010, 11:13 am
I ran across this picture gallery on Denver’s FOX 31. The gallery reads, “Too Much Muscle… A look at the more extreme participants in the body building world.” You may recognize some of the people, like female bodybuilder Jennifer Cowan.
Jennifer Cowan strikes a pose in Chicago.
It seems a little random that they’d choose to feature these types of images. Musta’ been a slow news day.
Isaac Hinds | misc | Saturday, 23 January 2010, 5:02 pm
This just in from the Fit Expo in Los Angeles. I’m told Jaquelyn Kay is the new Bodybuilding.com Bodyspace Spokesmodel Search winner. A favorite of Hardbody.com, Erin Stern was the runner-up. Check back for more coverage from the Fit Expo throughout the weekend.
Congrats to all the finalist and Jaquelyn on the win.
Isaac Hinds | Industry News, misc | Friday, 22 January 2010, 1:05 am
Those of you in Columbus on March 6, 2010 will want to check out this Charity After-Bash. It’s without question the fitness industry’s baddest party just as the flyer claims. The master promoter, Jason Dhir is once again holding the biggest after-party in the biz. I’ve attended this party every year since its inception and it gets bigger and better every year. Jason always brings in the top fitness stars and also “mainstream” celebrities.
This year the party will be held at BoMA Niteclub 583, E. Broad St., Downtown Columbus. Doors open at 10pm. To pre-purchase tickets or for more info visit groovetickets.com or jasondhir.com. Check back for a schedule of events.
Hardbody.com is a proud sponsor and will be there covering all the action.
Isaac Hinds | misc | Thursday, 21 January 2010, 7:35 pm
One of our favorite IFBB competitors, Erin Stern is out in LA for the Bodydbuilding.com Bodyspace Spokesmodel contest. She shared this photo of her and fellow finalist Mindy K. Erin said she’s having a blast and everything is going great. One male and one female will be victorious this weekend. Good luck to all the competitors.
Mindy and Erin at the IRONMAN photo studio.
Vote to pick the BodySpace Spokesmodel Winners!
Start Time: Tomorrow, January 22 at 9:00am PST
End Time: Saturday, January 23 at 9:00am PST
I haven’t watched the show but apparently MTV’s Jersey Shore is pretty popular. I hear it mentioned often by a variety of people and it seems to be the butt of many late-night talk shows. If you’ve seen it feel free to chime in with your thoughts in the comments section. It looks like the guys from the show are in pretty sic shape. Muscle Milk sent this photo out via their twitter. Not a bad way to get some mainstream exposure and hey the dude is rock’n some hardbody abs.
The Jersey Shore Crew with their Muscle Milk.
Photo via MuscleMilk Twitter.
IFBB Pro Gina Aliotti brings you a her weekly tip of the week. This time G’s has some advice for your cruisers. This got me thinking when did you replace your shoes last? I think I’ve had mine a few years. OOPS.
With so many of us doing cardio on a daily basis and often more than once a day, it is important to replace your running shoes! Even if you keep your shoes clean and in tip top shape, doesn’t mean they are! Over time running shoes lose stability and shock absorption and can lead to some serious injuries!
For those that are running/walking around 25 miles per week look into replacing your shoes every three to four months.
I know we all have our favorite pair of shoes but consider rotating your shoes to make them last longer!
“In that he didn’t die at the finish line, he could have run faster” – Tim Noakes
When's the last time you bought new running shoes?
Check out the new addition to this year’s Europa Expos. There will be a gym in the middle of the expo floor at all three Europa shows. Those in attendance will get the chance to watch the pros train. The expo gym is sponsored by Apollo Fitness Equipment and the pros are sponsored by various supplement companies.
This year’s events take place on April 16-17 in Orlando, July 23-25 in Hardford and August 13-14 in Dallas. Visit: www.visionstarinc.com for more information on the show and how you can watch the Pros train.
Come watch the Pros Train.
Never before done …We will be building a GYM in the
Isaac Hinds | Industry News, misc | Tuesday, 19 January 2010, 6:31 pm
IFBB Pro Alicia Marie has notched another endorsement to her resume. This time she will be featured on not only a product commercial but also its packaging. Alicia tells me she she finished shooting the Ab Coaster II commercial this afternoon. When asked if she was another “sell out” endorsing some bogus exercise equipment she simply said, “No.” What’s new with the Ab Coaster II? Alicia shared, “You can add heavier weight using extra plates if needed and it also includes a rep counter.” Look for the commercials to begin running in the next few weeks.
Here’s a pic from today’s shoot.
Alicia Marie on the set with others during the shooting of the Ab Coaster II.
Alicia will be making the transition from Figure over to the new IFBB Pro Bikini division this year.
Isaac Hinds | MMA, UFC, misc, videos | Tuesday, 19 January 2010, 4:01 pm
Check out the latest promotional video for the new UFC GYM. One familiar name/face to those who follow the fitness/figure industry is IFBB Pro Tanya Merryman. We interviewed her a couple years ago here on HARDBODY if you’re new to the site. She’s often remembered for her killer calves however she’s making a name for herself off the stage as the Group Fitness Manager for UFC GYM.
UFC GYMs are the newest extension of the UFC brand. As the video explains, it’s not a place to go and be a UFC fighter, it has a huge list of offerings from classes to weights and cardio. Congrats on the position Tanya and best of luck with the gym!
Isaac Hinds | misc | Tuesday, 19 January 2010, 1:04 pm
Gaspari Nutrition is producing a series featuring their newest sponsored athlete, IFBB Figure Pro Ava Cowan. Ava’s no stranger to the competitive scene however few have had a chance to hear her story. Visit: gasparinutrition.com for the first video of the series.
Isaac Hinds | misc | Tuesday, 19 January 2010, 5:44 am
Mike Davies’ Fitness Factory Boot Camp is headed back to Seattle. The camp was such a success last year that it’s back again. The camp will be held on February 5-7, 2010 in Bellevue, Washington. Check out the details below for this kick ass camp. If you attend tell them HARDBODY sent ya and let us know how the camp goes.
When: February 5-7, 2010
Where: L.A. Fitness
550 106th Ave NE Suite 215
Downtown Bellevue, WA
Boot Camp Training Package Includes:
• 4 Training Sessions
• Posing Seminar
• Bootcamp
• Cardiovascular Training
• Open Q & A
Isaac Hinds | misc | Monday, 18 January 2010, 10:39 am
Anyone with an internet connection can call themselves a reporter but there will always be a need for credible, reliable and accurate information. Magazines and newspapers have typically been the most trustworthy sources, however the times are changing. As more and more printed publications continue to struggle they are to migrating their content to the internet. Yesterday a story in NYmag.com reported the New York Times is looking to charge readers for access to their site. Many people feel it’s a mistake while others think it’s the right move.
Would you pay for access to a site that had content you wanted to read?
Isaac Hinds | misc | Monday, 18 January 2010, 10:05 am
If you’re like me and order your supplements on Bodybuilding.com you’ll want to take note. At checkout you can choose to donate $3 to the Haiti Relief Fund instead of getting a free gift. It’s a great way to contribute to the devastation that took place last week. Look for it at the checkout screen and consider donating to the cause.
Isaac Hinds | misc | Saturday, 16 January 2010, 8:25 am
The 2010 Bodybuilding.com Los Angeles Fit Expo is one week away. Despite the cancellation of the IRONMAN PRO Bodybuilding contest, the Fit Expo will be business as usual. The new Bodyspace spokesmodel winner will be crowned and a number of NPC & IFBB Pros will be in attendance. Check out some of the ladies slated to appear at the event.
Scheduled to appear during the weekend are:
• 8 Time Ms. Olympia LENDA MURRAY
• 2009 IFBB New York Women’s Pro 1st Place Winner CATHEY LeFRANCOIS
• IFBB Figure AVA COWAN
• FBB Figure Pro KRISSY CHIN
• NPC Bikini Competitor JANAEE ADAMS
• IFBB Bikini Pro MICHELE D’ANGONA
• NPC Bikini Competitor STACEY NAITO
• NPC Figure Competitor ALI HARRIS
• NPC Figure Competitor REYHANEH TAMAYO
• IFBB Figure Pro SONIA GONZALES
• IFBB Figure Pro ALICIA HARRIS
• IFBB Figure Pro ALICIA MARIE
• NPC Top 5 National Level Figure Competitor PRUDENCE MOE
• IFBB Figure Pro SHERLYN ROY
• 2008 FLEX Bikini Model Winner & IFBB Figure Pro KATHLEEN TESORI …and many more!
If you’re in LA and plan to attend the expo you can print this coupon for $5 off the cost of admission. I unfortunately won’t be attending the Expo this year however HARDBODY.com’s West Coast man, Ron Avidan will be there covering the action. Click here for more information on the event.
Isaac Hinds | misc, videos | Saturday, 16 January 2010, 7:39 am
Lately there’s been record-low temperatures recorded across America. Many of you are dieting and have low bodyfat. You get colder at a faster rate than most. Well not any more. Now you can stay warm with THE NECKY! It’s like a SNUGGIE for your neck! BRILLIANT!
Isaac Hinds | Industry News, misc | Friday, 15 January 2010, 12:38 pm
IFBB Figure Pro Gen “monkeybutt” Strobo is no stranger to a competitive scene. She steadily improved her physique as an amateur figure competitor in the NPC and achieve IFBB pro status last spring. She took a few months off to add muscle and in her pro debut qualified for the Ms. Figure Olympia. Apparently needing another challenge Strobo decided to enter the Walt Disney World Marathon last week. She didn’t train for it specifically like most people do. Nope she jumped in to show her support for fellow family members. Her husband Rob alerted me her accomplishment via twitter. Her pace was 11:49 with a finish time of 05:09:51. It pains me to think about walking 26.2 miles much less run it. Congratulations Gen!
