My 2022 Arnold Review, Plus a Personal Plea for 2023 Arnold and Beyond

The 2022 Arnold is in the books and the 2022 competition season and the Road to the 2022 is officially underway. Every single division for the pro women crowned a new champion, with three of them winning their first-ever Arnold title in their career. 

FITNESS INTERNATIONAL

To be successful in the fitness division you need to have a crazy physique and off-the-chart fitness skills, it can’t just be one of the other. Oksana Grishina has proven that, Whitney Jones has proven that, Missy Truscott has proven than…and now you can add Ariel Khadr to that list. Involved in the industry since age 11, it always felt like Ariel was destined to win a major title, especially since she became the youngest woman to qualify for the pros after turning 17. Injuries stalled her career and could have potentially ended it, but she prevailed and secured her spot as one of the best fitness competitors in the IFBB by winning her very first Fitness International title. After prejudging, it was clear as day that either Ariel or Missy (the then-defending champ) was going to win the title. While Missy brought a powerful physique and routine, Ariel did just enough to come out with the W. Jaclyn placed 3rd in her best placing at the Arnold yet, followed by Kate in 4th, with Tamara and Allison rounding out the top 6, placing 5th and 6th respectively in their Arnold debuts. 

FINAL RESULTS:

1. Ariel Khadr

2. Missy Truscott

3. Jaclyn Baker

4. Kate Errington

5. Tamara Vahn

6. Allison Kramer

7. Minna Pajulahti

8. Aurika Tyrgale

9. Sara Kovach

10. Amanda Ciani

FIGURE INTERNATIONAL 

In the world of figure, if you see the name Cydney Gillon on the competitor’s list, the most intriguing part is who is gonna place 2nd. Cydney hasn’t lost since 2018 and has been in the top two ever since 2017. That’s a long time to be that good at what you do and to my knowledge, that’s not going to stop anytime soon. Jessica, who has been one of the most dominant competitors in the figure division the last couple of years, placed 2nd. Lola placed 3rd, Nicole placed 4th in her Arnold debut, 2020 Figure International Champion Natalia placed 5th and 2020 Figure International Runner-Up Bojana rounded out the top 6.

FINAL RESULTS:

1. Cydney Gillon

2. Jessica Reyes Padilla

3. Lola Montez

4. Nicole Zenobia Graham

5. Natalia Soltero

6. Bojana Vasiljevic

7. Latoya Farley

8. Larhannah Robinson

9. An Da Jeong

10. Wendy Fortino

BIKINI INTERNATIONAL

These days, the bikini division is anyone’s division. A lot of amazing competitors who can win any show, including the Arnold, at any given day. In 2022, right now, that honor belongs to Lauralie Chapados, who bought a built sleek physique to the Arnold stage, earning her her very first Bikini International title and making her a strong favorite for the Bikini Olympia title this Christmas. Maureen in her Arnold debut is this year’s runner-up, and the winningest competitor in IFBB history and hometown star Ashley placed 3rd. Last year’s Bikini International runner-up Elisa placed 4th, followed by Jourdanne in 5th and Alessia rounding out the top 6.

FINAL RESULTS:

1. Lauralie Chapados

2. Maureen Blanquisco

3. Ashley Kaltwasser

4. Elisa Pecini

5. Jourdanne Lee

6. Alessia Facchin

7. Lucia Malavaze

8. Lauren Dannemiller

9. Phoebe Hagan

10. Allison Testu

WELLNESS INTERNATIONAL

Like the Olympia last year, this was the most anticipated event for the woman this year. 10 women made history and can say they were part of the first-ever Wellness International competition. Only ONE of them San say there were the first-ever Wellness International Champion, and that honor goes to Isabelle Nunes.  When Isabelle came out during prejudging, it was made abundantly clear that Nunes was the woman to beat. Nunes changed her suit and added significant muscle to her frame to fit the wellness look perfectly and made history. Angela is this year’s runner-up, followed by Sunny in 3rd, who also made incredible strides to her physique since the Arnold. Julia and Yarishna switched places from the Olympia, placing 4th and 5th respectively at the Arnold, with Kassandra rounding out the top 6. Hats off to them and all the Wellness International competitors on making history!

FINAL RESULTS:

1. Isabelle Nunes

2. Angela Borges

3. Sunny Andrews

4. Julia Chitarra

5. Yarishna Ayala

6. Kassandra Gillis

7. Barbara Cesar

8. Lorena Ragusa

9. Devyn Cambra

10. Casey Delong

And there you have it, the Road to the 2022 Olympia has officially begun, a bit longer than usual with the event in December as well as BACK in Vegas for the first time in over two years. It’s nice to see normalcy back at the Arnold with the Expo and variety of events. One thing I really loved about the Arnold this year is that only 10 in each division go to be represented, making the show that much more prestigious. I hope this continues. 

Now…to address the elephant in the room: the absence of female bodybuilding and women’s physique in the pros. This (to me) is beyond sad and pathetic on the part of Arnold Sports. I can’t state this enough…without women’s bodybuilding, the other divisions for women DO NO EXIST. I understand why the divisions were limited in 2021, but 2022, the world has practically opened back again, with women’s bodybuilding has returned to the Olympia to amazing results. The bigger women in the industry deserve to have their spot in the Arnold just as much as the other women in the industry. While the principles of fitness is more acceptable to women these days thanks to social media, the sport and industry of bodybuilding for women is still viewed as taboo and nowhere near the mainstream appeal of other industries. Because of that, the bodybuilding industry needs to embrace ALL divisions and leaving out the bigger divisions in a platform like the Arnold sends a message that even in the house you built, you are not welcomed. That’s not fair to the female bodybuilders and women’s physique competitions that put in the work day after day. So next year, Arnold Sports Committee, bring back the Ms. International and Women’s Physique International competitions. They are already shunned enough in the mainstream world. Don’t do the same to them in their own world. BE BETTER BY THEM. DO BETTER BY THEM.

Congrats to the 2022 winners and competitors, and here’s to EVERY DIVISION (especially women’s bodybuilding and women’s physique) being represented in 2023 and beyond. 

2022 Arnold Predictions

Another year, another Arnold. Last year, it was just the Fitness and Bikini divisions that got to shine due to COVID restrictions. This year, everything is back: The entire experience is back (expo and all)…with one noticeable exception. Women’s physique will not be represented again this year, and despite the return of female bodybuilding to prominence especially at the Olympia due to Jake Wood, women’s bodybuilding is STILL not back at the Arnold. It is disappointing that neither of these divisions are being represented, but it shouldn’t take away from the female divisions that ARE being represented: fitness, figure, bikini, and (making its debut) wellness. 

As everyone knows the Arnold is invite-only and this year, each female division has 10 competitors, which I respect that as it makes the Arnold that much more prestigious as not everyone can (nor should) be able to compete. With that being said, here’s my predictions on the female divisions being represented at the Arnold this year. Let me say that these are just PREDICTIONS. I have no inside info on the show or competitors (never have) so I have no clue how the Arnold is gonna go down. The judges can only judge what is in from of them THAT DAY (and yes, I’ve disagreed plenty of times and will continue to do so when warranted). Do not take these predictions personally. It’s just for fun. 

FITNESS INTERNATIONAL

10 incredible athletes make up this year’s Fitness International field. To me, this will come down to two people: current Fitness International Champion Missy Truscott and Ariel Khadr. Both ladies have (along with Oksana Grishina and Whitney Jones, two women who are not competing at the Arnold this year) the most insane physiques in the fitness division and the most entertaining routines in the industry. Missy would love nothing more than to successfully defend her Arnold crown and become a 3x Champion while Ariel would love to finally break through and win one of the big ones. Based off what I’ve seen of their preps, it will come down to who truly wants it more and who can avoid that one mistake. With that being said…I’m going to go with Missy to win her third-straight Fitness International title as she wants to begin her road to redemption to regain her Fitness Olympia title at the end of the year. Ariel in 2nd, followed by Sara in 3rd, Tamara in 4th, Jacklyn in 5th, and Minna to round out the top 6.

PREDICTIONS:

1. Missy Truscott

2. Ariel Khadr

3, Sara Kovach

4. Tamara Vahn

5. Jaclyn Baker

6. Minna Pajulahti

Other competitors: Amanda Ciani, Kate Errington, Allison Kramer, Aurika Tyrgale

FIGURE INTERNATIONAL

Despite the immense popularity of the wellness division, the figure division is still growing strong, and the 10 invitees for the Figure International prove it. Some are making their Arnold debuts but there is no shortage of OLYMPIA-level talent being in Ohio, including the current 5x Figure Olympia champion Cydney Gillon. Cydney has not lost a contest since the 2018 Arnold Classic Australia, and to be quite honest with you, as amazing as everyone else is, unless they can crake the Cydney code or hopes she comes in very off, I just don’t see her losing at the Arnold. But that’s not to say others won’t give her a run for their money. Natalia Soltero has been hitting on all cylinders the last couple of years, and TECHNICALLY she is the defending Figure International champion as her title was not on the line last year. Jessica Reyes Padilla has been one of the most dominant competitors in the division for quite some time, especially last year where she won 7 out of her 8 competitions, with the Olympia being the only one she didn’t win. Bojana Vasiljevic has one of the most amazing shapes in any division, and she looks like she’s going to come in CRAZY once again based off her prep footage. With all that being said, I got Cydney winning, followed by Jessica in 2nd, Natalia in 3rd, Bojana in 4th, Da Jeong in 5th, and Wendy BY A HAIR rounding out the top 6. 

PREDICTIONS:

1. Cydney Gillon

2. Jessica Reyes Padilla

3. Natalia Soltero

4. Bojana Vasiljevic

5. An Da Jeong

6. Wendy Fortino

Other competitors: Latoya Farley, Nicole Zenobia Graham, Lola Montez, Larhannah Robinson

BIKINI INTERNATIONAL

10 beautiful women will look to make Columbus, Ohio the most beautiful place on Earth (if only for a few days) with the crowning of a new Bikini International champion. The reigning champion Jennifer Dorie will not defend her crown, making a way for a new champion to emerge. Considering the roll she has been on, I don’t see how you can NOT have Ashley Kaltwasser as the favorite here. She has won 31 contests, more than any male or female IFBB athlete EVER and she just keeps getting better and better each contest with no plans of slowing down anytime soon. When someone like that is on a roll, good luck trying to stop them…especially in their hometown. I have a feeling she will win her first Big One since 2015. For the remaining top six, I have Elisa in 2nd, followed by Maureen in 3rd, Jourdanne in 4th, Alessia in 5th, and Danielle in 6th.

PREDICTIONS:

1. Ashley Kaltwasser

2. Elisa Pecini

3. Maureen Blanquisco

4. Jourdanne Lee

5. Alessia Facchin

6. Danielle Phelps

Other competitors: Lauren Dannenmiller, Phoebe Hagan, Lucia Malavaze, and Allison Testu.

Wellness International

Maybe THE most anticipated event in the pro shows male OR female, this year marks the debut of the Wellness International. This class has taken the IFBB by storm and based off the quality of competitors from its inaugural season, wellness might just be THE division of the IFBB for quite some time. Only 10 women can say they were in the first-ever Wellness International, but only one can say that she was the very-first Wellness International Champion. Everyone competing in this historic event was part of the first-ever Wellness Olympia back in September, including everyone that placed in the top 6 with the only exception being the Wellness Olympia Champion Francielle Mattos, who will not be competing at the Arnold. Based off the Olympia, Angela Borges should be the favorite, but this isn’t the Olympia and everyone has had time to improve. Two people who have improved TREMENDOUSLY since the Olympia are Dr. Sunny Andrews and Yarishna Ayala. Based off their prep files going into the Arnold, Sunny is going to come in crazier than she did at the Arnold and Yarishna learned her lesson from coming in TOO soft, which I feel costed her the Olympia crown. This one (to me) will be the hardest to predict hut here it goes…I’m going with Yarishna to win the inaugural Wellness Olympia crown, followed by Angela in 2nd, Sunny in 3rd, Isabelle in 4th, Kassandra in 5th, and Lorena to round out the top six.

PREDICTIONS:

1. Yarishna Ayala

2. Angela Borges

3. Sunny Andrews

4. Isabella Nunes

5. Kassandra Gillis

6. Lorena Ragusa

So there you have it, my predictions for the 2022 Arnold on the pro female side. I know everyone is going to have a blast with this being the first time the Arnold goes on in full since 2020 (RIGHT when everything went to hell in a hand basket..even though they still managed to have the pro events). To everyone attending, be safe not just due to COVID but be safe period. Don’t let a good time be your last. To all the competitors in a few days, best of luck to you all. You worked through the holidays to get here. Give the folks a show. The Arnold is BACK-back and the competition season is finally here! LET’S GO!!!!!

For more on the Arnold, go to their website at https://www.arnoldsportsfestival.com/. And to order the PPV (right now $24.99 but will go up to $34.99 after March 4), go to https://fanmio.com/products/arnold-sports. 

2020 Arnold IFBB Predictions

As you all know, the Arnold went through some MAJOR changes this year due to the coronavirus going around. Whether the moves were the right moves or not will be debated for a good bit, and quite honestly I see both sides. However, the IFBB shows WILL go on as planned, even though the preliminaries will be viewed by only families and only spectators can come tomorrow and Saturday night. We will talk about how the Arnold should move forward in 2021 and beyond in a different post, but for now, we are going to focus on the pro competitions taking place tomorrow and Saturday night.


Women's Physique International (Friday)
I say this with no disrespect to the women's physique competitors on the list...but everyone else (with the exception of one) is fighting for 2nd place with Natalia Coelho on the list. Like Shanique Grant, Natalia is a one-of-a-kind athlete who is only going to get better and she's already considered one of the best competitors in the history of the women's physique division. Unlike most, Natalia actually dreampt about being in the bodybuilding world since childhood. That is rare to hear about. Most go into the sport after usually college or in their adulthood. Natalia has wanted to do this SINCE CHILDHOOD. When you have that kind of mindset, the only designation for someone like Natalia is to be among the best to ever do it. Natalia will be hard to beat, but it can be done. Only three have ever done it and two of them (Shanique Grant and Sarah Villegas) are prepping for the upcoming Olympia. The other one IS competing at the Arnold, and that would be Penpraghai Tiangngok. She defeated Natalia at the 2019 Rising Phoenix Arizona Pro, proving that she has the formula to beat her. But it won't be easy, and I feel Natalia will know what to do this time around, being a student of the game. I see Natalia capturing her 2nd Women's Physique International title, but not without a fight from Pepraghai. For the rest of the top six, I have Jennifer Taylor in 3rd, Valentina Mishina in 4th, Laura Richards in 5th, Rulying Bin rounding out the top six and my dark horse is Desunka Dawson.

My Predictions:
1. Natalia Abraham Coelho
2. Penpraghai Tiangngok
3. Jennifer Taylor
4. Valentina Mishina
5. Laura Richards
6. Rulyin Bin
Dark Horse: Desunka Dawson


Fitness International (Friday)
With no Whitney Jones or Oksana Grishina until the Olympia, this looks to be the show that Missy Truscott FINALLY wins one of the big ones. She has been inching closer and closer to the top of the fitness rankings for quite sometimes with a complete physique and entertaining routines. She nearly became Fitness Olympia champion last year but ended up as the runner-up to Whitney Jones. As far as who will be her biggest competition...that one isn't so easy to figure out. Tiffany Chandler has been a consistent top performer the last few years and 2020 could be her breakout year. While it's been a while, Jenny Worth HAS won the Fitness International title before and ever since the late 2010s, she has continued one of the most inspiring comebacks in this sport's history. In fact, the second she steps on stage she will make history as being one of the few competitors (maybe the only female) to compete as an IFBB Pro in FOUR DIFFERENT DECADES (1990s, 2000s, 2010s, 2020s)! That alone is an incredible feat worthy of it's own reward! After an injury, Ariel Khadr makes her much-anticipated return to the fitness stage, hoping to return to where she was before her injury..right in the discussion for the top fitness competitor post-Oksana Grishina. Sara Kovach has improved her physique immensely and to me is right in the thick of things when it comes to contending for the Fitness International title. With that all being said, I got Missy winning, followed by Tiffany, Sarah, Jenny, Kate Errington, and Ariel in that order. My dark horse is Derina Wilson.

My Predictions:
1. Missy Truscott
2. Tiffany Chandler
3. Sara Kovach
4. Jenny Worth
5. Kate Errington
6. Ariel Khadr
Dark Horse: Derina Wilson


Figure International (Friday)
Oh...THIS is gonna be a fun one. No Latorya Watts, no Cydney Gillon, no Nadia Wyatt. It is pretty damn wide open to the naked eye. There are three people that have amazing size and shape that has more than held their own with the three I've mentioned earlier: Jessica Reyes Padilla, Bojana Vasiljevic, and Sandra Grajales. Jessica has amazing muscularity and a majestic look about her that is hard to ignore. She is a competitor that is a threat to any show she competes in. Bojana is someone who I've praised time and time about about her shape and presentation. when it comes to that, she's practically unbeatable. You have to be on your A-game and hope Bojana is not if you truly want to best her. Sandra has clearly put on more muscle since the Olympia and could be her biggest yet at the Arnold, but she carries herself with such poise that it's nearly unfair to many competitors. I will say among all the female divisions, this one has the most uncertainty as far as what look they will reward with the top three at last year's Olympia not competing at the Arnold. I'll go on the record saying that my predictions for the Figure International this year might be the worst-ever, but I'm going to throw caution to the win here. I have Jessica winning her first Figure International title, with Sandra as the runner-up, Bojana in 3rd, Martina Yabekova in 4th, Natalia Soltero in 5th, and Ashley Soto rounding out the top six, with Tiffani Lapoint as my dark horse. Again, I have no clue how the figure division will pan out at the Arnold. This is merely me throwing something to the wall and seeing if it sticks.

My Predictions:
1. Jessica Reyes Padilla
2. Sandra Grajales
3. Bojana Vasiljevic
4. Marina Yabekova
5. Natalia Soltero
6. Ashley Soto
Dark Horse: Tiffani Lapoint

Bikini International (Saturday)

Janet Layug finally won one of the big bikini titles when she won the 2019 Bikini International. She would love nothing more than to repeat as Bikini International Champion in 2020. To do that, she will have to beat another tough, deep lineup in the bikini division, which includes Angelica Teixera (a former 2x Bikini International Champion and Bikini Olympia champion) and Elisa Pecini (the current Bikini Olympia champion). We were hoping to see Ashley Kaltwasser compete in her own state in Ohio, but she had a few setbacks (including eye surgery) that kept her from being ready for this weekend. Get well soon, Ashley! This division is never easy to pick but winning the Olympia usually puts you at an all-time high as you go into your next contest. For that reason, I'm going to go with Elisa to win this year's Bikini International with Janet placing 2nd and Angelica at 3rd. As far as the rest of the top six is concerned, I'm going to go with Jennifer Ronzitti in 4th, Justine Munro in 5th and rounding out the top six will be Romina Basualdo. My dark horse for this year's Bikini International goes to Marcia Goncalves.

My Predictions:
1. Elisa Pecini
2. Janet Layug
3. Angelica Teixeira
4. Jennifer Ronzitti
5. Justine Munro
6. Romina Basualdo
Dark Horse: Marcia Goncalves


On a personal note, I want to comment everyone pro and amateur who decided to come to Ohio with so much uncertainty in how the Arnold would play out. The Arnold committee did everything they could to try and salvage as much of the event as possible and I think they did a good job with what they were given. As mentioned before, we will discuss our thoughts about it and how we feel the Arnold need to move forward in 2021 and beyond. Until then, make sure to watch the Arnold livestream present by REDCON1 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=28oAUrqSMNA) and if you are in the Columbus area tomorrow and Saturday night, make sure to go to the Finals and support these hard-working and deserving athletes.

Arnold 2019 Predictions

Photo credit: Arnold Sports Festival website

It's time for the biggest weekend that is NOT the Olympia...the Arnold Sports Festival! Also known as the "kickoff" to the competition season, some of the best in women's physique, fitness, figure, and bikini (as well as the men's divisions) take over Columbus, Ohio, and one of the most simple cities in America becomes the muscle capital of the world for one weekend. There's a very good chance I butchered my predictions here (wouldn't be the first time. LMAO), but here are my predictions for how I think the weekend will play out:


WOMEN'S PHYSIQUE INTERNATIONAL (PREJUDGING AND FINALS FRIDAY)


The Women's Physique International has never had a repeat champion since the contest's debut in 2015. That trend will continue this year as last year's winner and current Ms. Physique Olympia Shanique Grant will not be defending her title. After an amazing year last year for Natalia Coelho, she is considered by many to be the odds-on favorite to win her first major title. People have seemed to forgotten how good Natalia really is despite her success in the industry thus far, but I have a feeling people are going to get a very good reminder of just how amazing of a competitor Natalia really is. Her biggest competitor in my eyes might be a surprise to a lot of you: I have Lauren Rutan challenging her for the title. Lauren is one of the most incredible muscle athletes of all time and her IFBB career has barely begun. She has competed in powerlifting, weightlifting, and CrossFit at the Arnold, and with her competing in women's physique, she will enter a class of her own being the only person (male or female) to compete in the Arnold in four different events. I can't think of any other person that has done this feat. If it indeed comes down to Lauren and Natalia, we are in for a treat. The rest of the field is kinda a toss-up to me. I have Sheronica in 3rd, Valentine in 4th, Antoniette in 5th, and Margita rounding out the top 6. My dark horse for this event is Diana Schnaidt, one of the most underrated competitors in women's physique. Maybe 2019 will be the year she shakes things up there!

My Women's Physique International predictions:

1. Natalia Coelho
2. Lauren Rutan
3. Sheronica Henton
4. Valentina Mishina
5. Antoinette Downie
6. Margita Zamolova
DARK HORSE FOR THE TOP SIX: Diana Schnaidt


FITNESS INTERNATIONAL (PREJUDGING AND FINALS FRIDAY)


2018 saw the post-Oksana Grishina era of the fitness division begin with a bang with Whitney Jones winning 2018 Fitness International title (with a torn ACL!) as well as the 2018 Fitness Olympia, making her the new Queen of Fitness. This weekend, Whitney will be defending her title against some great competition, however there will be no Ariel Khadr (injury) or Myriam Capes (business ordeals) in this year's events. Looking at the field, I expect Whitney to repeat as champion. Ryall Graber, who was the 2018 Fitness Olympia runner-up, to me is her top competitor. I also predict Missy to have her best finish at the Arnold to date. Kate Errington came out of nowhere last year and was the 2018 Fitness International runner-up. I have her finishing 4th because of how good Ryall has been and how improved Missy has become. Definitely not a knock on Kate, mind you. I have Sara and Allison rounding out the top six, with Tiffany Chandler as my dark horse pick.

My Fitness International predictions:

1. Whitney Jones
2. Ryall Graber
3. Missy Farell
4. Kate Errington
5. Sara Kovach
6. Allison Ethier
DARK HORSE FOR THE TOP SIX: Tiffany Chandler


FIGURE INTERNATIONAL (PREJUDGING AND FINALS FRIDAY)


The figure division just gets deeper and deeper each year, with Candice Lewis-Carter and Cydney Gillon running things in 2018 winning the Figure International and Figure Olympia titles respectively. Candice will not be stepping on stage for the foreseeable future and Latorya Watts is still hoping to return sometime this year (still recovering from last year's injury/surgery) as well as no Heather Dees or Ivana Ivusic this time around, leaving Cydney as the odds-on favorite to win her first Figure International title. I see her biggest competition being Nadia Wyatt, who came from almost out of nowhere last year and placed 3rd at the 2018 Figure International. She definitely looked great alongside Cydney and could potentially upset Cydney and win her first major title. Jessica, Sandra, Bojana, and Maria all finished well at the 2018 Olympia, and I personally expect nothing less from them and see them rounding out the top six. One person who I think could shake things up is Wendy Fortino, who will be making her long-overdue Figure International debut. If anyone can make the top six, it's her.


My Figure International Predictions:

1. Cydney Gillon
2. Nadia Wyatt
3. Jessica Reyes Padilla
4. Sandra Grajales
5. Bojana Vasiljevic
6. Maria Luisa Baeza Diaz
DARK HORSE FOR THE TOP 6: Wendy Fortino



BIKINI INTERNATIONAL (PREJUDGING AND FINALS SATURDAY)


For the last couple of years, Angelica Teixeria has ruled the bikini division, but she will not be defending her Bikini International title this year. I feel Janet Layng is long overdue for her first major title, and I do think she has a chance to win this weekend, but because the Arnold is in Columbus and hometown folks do everything in their power to come in at their best in front of their family and friends, I'm going to go with Ashley Kaltwasser to win another Bikini International title. I see Ashley as a SLIGHT favorite but not by much. This might be the tightest contest of the night when it comes to the difference between 1st and 2nd place, but I could be wrong here. Rounding out my top 6 are Elisa, Marcia, Camile, and Frida, who I feel on the verge of a breakout in the bikini division. My dark horse pick is Ashley Jenelle. (NOTE: I had India Paulino on my top 6, but I was informed that she is not competing this weekend. My apologies)

My Bikini International predictions:

1. Ashley Kaltwasser
2. Janet Layng
3. Elisa Pecini
4. Marcia Goncalves
5. Camile Periat
6. Frida Paulsen Stern
DARK HORSE FOR THE TOP SIX: Ashley Jenelle


This is shaping up to be quite the event. For those that are not in Columbus, Ohio this weekend, you can view the festivities at this link: https://www.arnoldsportsfestival.com/visitor-info/asftv/19-asf-livestream/. REDCON1 will be providing over 70 hours of LIVE coverage of all the big events of the Arnold Sports Festival. And we will do our best to keep you all updated on the pro events via our social media platforms. Best of luck to all the competitors this weekend!

Our 2018 Arnold Predictions (UPDATED)

This weekend is the 30th Arnold Sports Festival event. It has evolved over the last 30 years and has reached several continents, but the main show is always the one in Columbus, Ohio, which this year's event will be this weekend (March 1-4). We haven't done this in a while, but we thought we would give our predictions for the pro female events. Just to be clear...THESE ARE MERELY PREDICTIONS so PLEASE don't get into your feelings, people. On that note, read and enjoy. (NOTE: Due to some new information we received over the past 24 hours, we made some changes to the article)


Fitness International

This show begins the new era of the fitness divsion, because one of the greatest of all time Oksana Grishina retired at the 2017 Olympia, leaving room for a new queen of fitness to emerge. In addition to no Oksana, Myriam Capes (who many consider to be a frontrunner for the Fitness Olympia title later on this year) is also not competing, so it's safe to say that this year is the first time in a long time the Fitness International title is wide open. Based off this year's list and their previous performances, we could see either Bethany Wagner, Regaine Da Silva, or Ariel Khadr taking home the fitness title this year. Kristine Duba has been bringing it year after year and could easily be champ as well. We're happy to see Whitney Jones return to the stage after an injury sidelined her last year. One of the most powerful-looking physiques in the division, we expect her to return to top form and make a run for a top spot. Ryall Graber is also a consistant competitor who is no stranger to placing high in shows, so we think she could be a top-6 placer. Many will be bringing in new routines, so it will be interesting to see how the judges will place everyone this year with Oksana and Myriam not in the line-up.

Our predictions:

1. Regaine Da Silva
2. Bethany Wagner
3. Ariel Khadr
4. Kristine Duba
5. Whitney Jones
6. Ryall Graber

Figure International

For the first time in a while, the top three will NOT be Cydney Gillon, Candice Lewis-Carter, and Latorya Watts. The main reason?! Latorya Watts will not be competing this year. Cydney and Candice are though, as Candice will be defending her Figure International title, and Cydney will try and join Latorya, Jenny Lynn, and Nicole Wilkins as only the fourth woman to win BOTH the Figure International and Figure Olympia titles in their careers. Heather Dees is coming off one hell of a breakout year and could challenge Cydney and Candice for the title easily. Bojana Vasiljevic, the 2017 FitGems Nation Pro Figure Competitor of the Year, has been looking insane during her Arnold prep and could easily be top 6. Ivana Ivusic and Sandra Grajales had amazing shapes last year and are threats in any competition they enter, and this will be no different.

Our predictions:

1. Cydney Gillon
2. Candice Lewis-Carter
3. Heather Dees
4. Bojana Vasilijevic
5. Ivana Ivusic
6. Sandra Grajales

Bikini International

Coming out of her first-ever Bikini Olympia win, we see Angelica Teixeria, our 2017 Pro Bikini Competitor of the Year winner), continuing her winning ways and adding the 2018 Bikini International title. The remining top 4 from the Olympia (Jennifer Ronzitti, Romina Basulaso, and Casey Samsel) will also be competing and there's a good chance they will occupy the top 6 and maybe even challenge Angelica for the title. Frida Paulsen Stern has a very strong presence that we love a lot and could also be a top placer as well this weekend. Justine Munro has one of the most consistantly best physiques in the bikini division and is a top placer in nearly each contest she competes in, and this year's Arnold should be no different.

Our predictions:

1. Angelica Teixeria
2. Jennifer Ronzitti
3. Romina Basualdo
4. Casey Samsel
5. Frida Paulsen Stern
6. Justine Munro

Women's Physique International

There are a lot of great competitors in the women's physique division, with Juliana Malcarne as the reigning 4x Women's Physique Olympia champion. And honestly, anyone has a shot at the Women's Physique International title, as we have seen some surprise placings since this event began in 2015. However, we gotta be honest, it's gonna be downright impossible to beat Natalia Coelho and Shanique Grant this weekend, assuming they are on. If they are, the best everyone else can fight for is third place. Natalia and Shanique are two of the most gifted women in not only the IFBB Women's Physique Division, but in the entire IFBB as a whole. What's scary about the both of them is they are not even at their peak. Let's take Natalia. She competed in a women's physique show WEEKS after competing at the Olympia as a figure competitor. She had been training for figure and not women's physique and DESTROYED the competition. No one was at her level. She's had time to add size and refine her shape for women's physique now. PONDER ON THAT FOR A BIT. After you do that, let's talk about Shanique for a bit. Shanique competed in figure a couple of years ago and was great there. Weeks after that, she did women's physique (again, was training for FIGURE at the time) and dominated HER competition as well. Many called Shanique the biggest threat to Juliana in 2016 AND 2017, but due to unfortate circumnstances (cowards nearly ending her life in 2016 and a injury in 2017) we didn't get the Shanique/Juliana showdown. Now 2018, we could see Juliana vs Shanique AND Natalia in one of the craziest Women's Physique Olympia battle in history. This weekend could be witness to the most insane Women's Physique International showdown to date (and to us, quite possibly the future of an entire division) in Natalia and Shanique. Kira Neuman has been doing her own share of putting in work and could be a top 3 finisher, especially after her previous performances as of late. Rounding out our list is Diana (who has made crazy gains ever since jumping from figure to women's physique), Priscila, and Brooke.

Our predicitions:

1. Natalia Coelho
2. Shanique Grant
3. Kira Neuman
4. Diana Schnaidt
5. Priscila Cavilha
6. Brooke Walker

Those are our predictions for the female pro events at the 30th Arnold Sports Festival. We expect top-tier performances that will be the best you'll see all year sans the Olympia. We are looking forward to seeing how each division kicks off 2018! If you want to watch the event but won't be in Columbus for it, Generation Iron will be broadcasting most of the prejudging and finals from the event here: https://generationiron.com/generation-irons-arnold-classic-2018-live-stream-schedule/, as well as ASF TV, which is sponorsed by REDCON1, who will be providing more than 50 hours of live streaming content throughout the weekend: http://www.arnoldsportsfestival.com/asftv/. If you have any predictions, leave a comment below this post. Best of luck to all that will be competing!

Camala Rodriquez's Next Fitness Venture

The 2017 Olympia was last time we'll see Camala on stage until potentially the 2019 Arnold, as she prepare to enter a new chapter in her female muscle career!
Photo credit: NPC News Online

2017 may go down as one of the most competitive years in IFBB figure history, with long-time competitors winning their first titles and BOTH the Figure International and Figure Olympia titles changed hands this year. 2018 will have a tough act to follow but with the talent that is currently competing and the new figure competitors that earned their pro cards this year, we do expect another competitive year for the division. There will be a noticeable name absent from the shows in 2018...Camala Rodriquez.

On social media, she announced that if she didn't automatically qualify for the 2018 Figure Olympia, she would set out for a year. She placed 12th at the Figure Olympia, her worst placing in a figure competition in a LONG time. Considering what she has been through (which we don't get into here, as the personal lives of competitors are not our place to discuss unless the athletes gives us the permission outright), we're happy she even placed period. She will be taking next year off from the stage to and plans to ,in her own words, "have fun for a year". By fun, we're talking powerlifting. Yep, the former fitness-turned-figure competitor and 2015 Figure International Champion is adding powerlifting to her already-impressive resume.

Camala has never been known for being a weak woman. She's built overtime one of the most powerful-looking physiques in the IFBB through years of hard training, but now she plans on taking it to a new level as she enters powerlifting. While she hasn't committed to any powerlifting competitions as of this writing, she has already broken a few of her own PRs (personal records) by a big amount. There's a very good chance that by the time she plans to return to figure competitions in 2019 (she is hoping for a 2019 Arnold invite), she will legit be pound-for-pound, one of the strongest women in the IFBB. And just think about how much her physique will benefit from powerlifting as well! To say we're excited for Camala in 2018 AND 2019 would be an understatement.

Check out a few recent clips from her Instagram, and you'll see why we are stoked to see what Camala is gonna be one to watch OUTSIDE of competing in an IFBB stage next year:

Yup....here’s my end of workout moves. #winning #militarymusclefoundation #BeTheCatalyst #purelinenutrition #ltemployee #beboutit #gains @amanda_carter7 learning how to #fly @ctlalpha #photobomb

A post shared by Camala Rodriguez (@therealcamala) on Oct 25, 2017 at 10:01am PDT

Gettin that form down!! You ready for my debut?? #BeTheCatalyst #powerlifting #gameface #gameon #2018 #motivation #thebestisyettocome Powered by @thepureline.com & @lifetime.life Order today with promo code CAMALA. #glutagenX #isofactor #crank #vegamax #carniclear #ltemployee

A post shared by Camala Rodriguez (@therealcamala) on Nov 22, 2017 at 7:09am PST

The Science of Perseverance: How Your Beliefs Can Strengthen (or Weaken) Your Motivation. “Permanence, perseverance and persistence in spite of all obstacles, discouragements and impossibilities: It is this, that in all things distinguishes the strong soul from the weak.” -Anonymous 1RM 285lbs——30lbs up from last week! Boom! How ya like them apples??? What’s your goal going into the new year?? #BeTheCatalyst #GetYourJoyOn #athlete @thepureline.com @tokyojoes @lifetime.life #motivation #fitness #figurequeen #beboutit #ltemployee

A post shared by Camala Rodriguez (@therealcamala) on Dec 5, 2017 at 8:10pm PST

“Do or do not. There is no try.” —Yoda #BeTheCatalyst #GetYourJoyOn #purelinenutrition #crank #athlete #lifestyle #bigback #beboutit #spiritualgangster #figurequeen #lightweight #ltemployee

A post shared by Camala Rodriguez (@therealcamala) on Dec 6, 2017 at 9:56pm PST

“To hell with circumstances; I create opportunities.” -Bruce Lee Not quite full depth for my 6th set. #buttstill #BeTheCatalyst #ltemployee #lifestyle #beboutit #bootygains #purelinenutrition #GetYourJoyOn @tokyojoes #athlete #2018

A post shared by Camala Rodriguez (@therealcamala) on Dec 7, 2017 at 3:16pm PST

Expect plenty more clips like this next year. She is only scratching the surface of what she is truly capable of, and we can't wait to see what she has in store! We at FitGems Nation wish Camala best of luck to her in the months ahead!

For more on Camala, follow her on social media at the following links:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealcamala/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Camala-Rodriguez-IFBB-Pro-153674027989808/

WE'RE HEADING TO THE ARNOLD!!!!

We'll do it live!!! FitGems is Arnold Bound! 

Yep, you read that correctly. After YEARS of not being able to attend for various reasons, I'm happy to announce that the founder of FitGems Nation will be LIVE in attendance at the Arnold Sports Festival this year!!! I knew this was going to happen for weeks, but didn't want to say anything to jinx it. This has been a long time coming for me and it's gonna feel so good to finally meet many of you who I've supported and who have supported FitGems Nation for years.

I can't promise how much footage I will provide, but I invite you all to follow us on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/fitgemsnation), Twitter (https://twitter.com/fitgemsnation), and Instagram (http://instagram.com/fitgemsnation) as I will be attempting to post photos LIVE at the Arnold. Also, use the hashtag #FitGemsAtASF15 as we'll be using it for our candid coverage as well.

Long story short, the excitement for the FitGems brand is at the highest it's ever been and as I've stated over and over again, none of this could have possible without all of YOU. You are the reason FitGems has been able to stand the test of time. Looking forward to what is shaping up to be a very memorable Arnold Sports Festival!

2013 Figure International Review: Candice Keene is Figure Supreme

On paper, Erin Stern was the favorite. Before the Arnold began, most people had Erin winning her first-ever Figure International title, with Nicole Wilkins sitting out. Any can you blame anyone. I mean, she IS the reigning Figure Olympia champion. Yeah...try telling Candice Keene that, though. She had other plans. Candice, with her best package to date, took home her first major title of her figure career and she did it on her birthday. Needless to say, this was probably the best birthday she's ever had. How many other people can say that they won a major title in their sport on their birthday?!

Best birthday present ever for Candice Keene?! I think so!
Photo credit: Bodybuilding.com

Another one who shocked a lot of people was Heather Dees. Bring HER best package to date, Heather brought in the right amount of muscle and tone to take the runner-up spot. Erin Stern, the favorite heading into the event, placed 3rd, and compared to Candice K. and Heather D., she was far from her best. If the Erin that showed up at last year's Olympia was at this year's Arnold, we would have a whole different story to talk about. No doubt she will learn from this and come back better than before. 4th place went to Candice Lewis, who brought an amazing physique to the stage. Mallory Haldeman continues her first figure run as she placed 5th. Rounding out the top six was fitness-turned-figure competitor Camala Rodriquez. Her physique has always been a strong point during her fitness run, and it's translating to figure quite nicely. The biggest shocker in the figure ranks goes to Ava Cowan, who brought what many believe to be her best physique to date, but was outside the top six.

What are your thoughts about the placings? Agree? Disagree? Has the landscape of figure change with Candice and Heather's performance? Sound off in the comments below and on our Facebook fan page (https://www.facebook.com/fitgemsnation).

FINAL RESULTS:

1. Candice Keene
2. Heather Dees
3. Erin Stern
4. Candice Lewis
5. Mallory Haldeman
6. Camala Rodriguez
7. Ava Cowan
8. Gennifer Strobo
9. Cheryl Brown
10. Kamla Macko
11. Ann Titone
12. Aleisha Hart
13. Candice John
14. Nicole Sims
15. Alea Suarez
16. Giada Simari
16. Natalie Waples
16. Olga Morales

Top 6 Awards (including Candice's speech) (from NPCNewsOnline)



Candice's interview and photoshoot after her win (from NPCNewsOnline)

FitGems to have Social Media Correspondent at Arnold Sports Festival 2013!

The Arnold Sports Festival is this week, and we are happy and privileged to announce that for the first time in FitGems Nation history, we will have our own social media correspondent at the Arnold Sports Festival! 

Her name is Jennifer Bahney. She is a future figure competitor who trains at Powell Fitness, which happens to be near Columbus, the home city of the Arnold. She runs a hair care web site called Long Hair Lovers, (www.longhairlovers.com) and posts quite a bit about her business on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/Longhairlovers) and Twitter(http://twitter.com/longhairlovers). She is also dealing with hypothyroidism in her quest to compete one day. Definitely an inspiration. 

Jennifer will be attending the Arnold on Friday for the women's prejudging events (Ms. International, Fitness International, Figure International). She will be tweet via her personal Twitter account (@JenniferBahney) during those events and possibly the expo afterwards. She will also be providing some updates via our fan page (https://www.facebook.com/fitgemsnation) For those that have followed FitGems since the beginning, this is a big step for us to even do something like this. In time, we hope to evolve and provide more exclusive footage from events such as the Arnold. 

Please follow along with Jennifer, and for all things Arnold, use the hashtag #asf2013. This is the official hashtag for the Arnold that will be used by everyone throughout the week. 

Jennifer, we look forward to what you will bring to the FitGems Nation this weekend and beyond. To all the spectators and competitors heading to Columbus in a matter of days, have fun! 

2013 Arnold Shake-Ups Continue

Earlier this year, we mentioned that Nicole Wilkins would sit out the 2013 Arnold so she could focus on the 2013 Olympia. News has broken out over the last few days that will no doubt change the landscape of the Arnold on the female side of things. Adela Garcia announced on her Facebook page that she would be sitting out the Arnold as well, making room for a new Fitness International Champion, the first since 2010. It has also been mentioned via the popular board Siouxcountry that Iris Kyle and Sonia Gonzales might be sitting out as well. This means all but one champion will NOT be defending her title in 2013, and that's Yaxeni Qriquen, who became Fitness International Champion in 2012 after Iris sat out this year due to an injury. 

Bottom line, this news can be summed up as simple as this: Arnold 2013....Game. Changer.

Although the list hasn't been made public yet, the fact that defending champions and top names are OUT of the 2013 Arnold makes next year's event one of the most-interesting events of 2013 right off the bat. For fitness, Oksana Grishina looks to be the favorite to win her first Fitness International title, but Myriam Capes and Tina Durkin are coming off great years in 2012 as well. For figure, Erin Stern being the defending Figure Olympia champion is an automatic favorite, but Candice Keene, Ava Cowan, and quite possibly Candice Lewis and Camala Rodgriquez will make sure Erin's journey to her first Figure International title won't be an easy one. For bikini, Nathalia Melo will have the current Olympia champions advantage, but Nicole Nagrani will have the former Bikini International advantage, and India Paulino is coming off a great 2012, so expect her to be in the bikini mix. As mentioned earlier, Yaxeni will be the only one to defend her title (unless something changes on that, then the FBB field is DEFINITELY wide-open), but Debi Laszewski has been chopping at the bit waiting to get that big win that many people feel she deserved for quite some time. And Alina Popa has shown she can hang with the top girls as well. 

Which division do you think will have the biggest shake-up at the Arnold? One thing is for sure...interesting times are ahead for the women's side of the sport in 2013. Will the 2013 Arnold be the "passing of the torch"? Time will tell...

Nicole Wilkins to Sit Out 2013 Figure International

Nicole Wilkins @ 2012 Figure International. She will sit out this contest in 2013, guaranteeing a new champion crowned.
Photo credit: Muscular Development

The Arnold list isn't out yet and won't be out for a good month or so, and already there's a major shake-up for one of the Arnold contest. Nicole Wilkins, the three-time and current Figure International champion, will sit out the 2013 Figure International show, putting on hold a possible record-breaking fourth Figure International title. Here's why Nicole decided to sit out the show next year, from her Facebook page:

For the past five years, the Monday after Thanksgiving always marks the first day of my prep for the Arnold Classic. But not this year - because, since 2008, I've decided to sit out the event. For the first time since I've been a pro, I'm going to give myself a longer offseason to make the improvements I feel are necessary to get my physique where I want it to be to hopefully win back the Figure Olympia title.  

For those of you who will be in Columbus, I will be too - just at the Met-Rx booth and not on stage. I'm sure it will be hard watching all of the other girls competing that weekend, but I know this is the right decision for me at this time. And I know I'll be back on the Arnold Classic Figure International stage in 2014 going for title No. 4! 

Thank you to Fitness Management Group (FMG), my trainer Kim Oddo and MET-Rx for supporting me with this decision. Here's to a great 2013!

This news is HUGE, as we will definitely be crowning one new champion at the Arnold next year. This no doubt makes the current Figure Olympia champion Erin Stern a odds-on favorite to win her first Figure International title. But then again, Candice Keene will be entering 2013 with a streak of her own after arguably the best year of her career. Ava Cowan is definitely one to consider in the Figure International title hunt, and quite possibly the fitness-turned-figure competitor Camala Rodriguez could shock the world and enter her first FIGURE International competition and emerge victorious.

It will definitely be interesting who will emerge at the new champion in 2013 whether it be those names mentioned above or someone else What will also be interesting to see is what kinds of improvements Nicole will make during her offseason. She can definitely bring it, as proved in 2011 at the Tournament of Champions when she wowed a lot of people with her lean and tight yet full and feminine physique, something most people didn't think was possible from Nicole. Imagine if she can pull that look off again.

Will we see a look similar to this from Nicole next year?
Photo credit: MuscleContest.com

We have full confidence when Nicole does return to the stage in 2013 (whether it be at the Olympia or sometime before), she will wow the audience again. We wish her best of luck in her offseason and on her road to regaining the Figure Olympia title in 2013! 

2012 Figure International Review: Nicole, 3X the Champ

For figure, 2012 began the way 2011 ended, who would be the better woman: Nicole Wilkins or Erin Stern? Well, much like how 2011 and 2010 began, 2012 began the same way...with Nicole Wilkins on top of the figure mountain. Nicole received a perfect score and won her 3rd straight Figure International title, tying with Jenny Lynn for most Figure International titles won. Should Nicole be in the Figure International next year, Nicole has the chance to cement her legacy as the winning-ist Figure International Champion of all time. If anyone can break the record, it's Nicole. Erin Stern has failed to best Nicole since the 2010 Figure Olympia, and that hasn't changed, as she came close, but no cigar. Candice Keene and Ava Cowan were neck and neck for 3rd and 4th place, but Candice beat Ava by one point to earn an Olympia qualification, along with Nicole and Erin. Heather Dees brought a great physique, placing her in 5th in her Arnold debut, and Teresa Anthony rounded out the top six in figure.

Full results:
1. Nicole Wilkins
2. Erin Stern
3. Candice Keene
4. Ava Cowan
5. Heather Dees
6. Teresa Anthony
7. Larissa Reis
 8. Cheryl Brown
 9. Gennifer Strobo
 10. Krissy Chin
 11. Jelena Abbou
 12. Latisha Wilder
 13. Sue Knott
 14. Raquel Hernandez
 15. Gloria Tarpley
 16. Alicia Harris

2012 Arnold List Released

It's OUT!!!! The 2012 Arnold list has just been released. Did you favorites make it on there?

2012 Ms. International (15)
Maria Rita Bello
Brigita Brezovac
Kim Buck
Tina Chandler
Alevtina Goroshinskaya
Monique Jones
Iris Kyle
Debi Laszewski
Cathy LeFrancois
Zoa Lindsey
Geraldine Morgan
Yaxeni Oriquen
Kim Perez
Alina Popa
Maria Segura

2012 Fitness International (17)
Michelle Blank
Jodi Boam
Myriam Capes
Regiane Da Silva
Tina Durkin
Allison Ethier
Adela Garcia
Oksana Grishina
Tanji Johnson
Diana Monteiro
Julie Palmer
Kayde Puckett
Camala Rodriguez
Daniella Ruban
Kizzy Vaines
Sheri Vucick
Bethany Wagner

2012 Figure International (16)
Jelena Abbou
Teresa Anthony
Cheryl Brown
Krissy Chin
Ava Cowan
Heather Dees
Alicia Harris
Raquel Hernandez
Candice Keene
Gloria Keplinger Tarpley
Sue Knott
Larissa Reis
Erin Stern
Gennifer Strobo
Latisha Wilder
Nicole Wilkins

2012 Bikini International (18)
Jennifer Andrews
Jaime Baird
Abbie Burrows
Juliana Daniell
Sonia Gonzales
Candyce Graham
Diana Graham
Jessica Jessie
Lexi Kaufman
Nathalia Melo
Justine Munro
Nicole Nagrani
India Paulino
Jessica Paxson
Natalie Pennington
Monique Ricardo
Tianna Ta
Christine Vargas

There will be more Arnold-related posts as we get closer to the big event. Until then, congrats to everyone that made the list! 2012 Arnold...here we come!! 

Official Look at Arnold Pro Female Competitors

Here's a look at all the female competitors for the 2011 Arnold Sports Festival from the official Arnold Sports website. A picture and bio has been included for all the competitors.

Ms. International:
http://www.arnoldsportsfestival.com/home/sports-and-events/ms-international.html

Fitness International:
http://www.arnoldsportsfestival.com/home/sports-and-events/fitness-international.html

Figure International:
http://www.arnoldsportsfestival.com/home/sports-and-events/figure-international.html

Bikini International:
http://www.arnoldsportsfestival.com/home/sports-and-events/bikini-international.html

For more on the Arnold Sports Festival, go to http://www.arnoldsportsfestival.com.

Arnold 2011 VIP Packages & Regular Tickets On Sale Soon!

The news was released today that the 2011 Arnold VIP Package was going to be one of epic proportions. Here's the press release about it, from the main Arnold Sports website (http://arnoldsportsfestival.com/bulletins/articles/ASFNews12):

The Arnold Sports Festival is proud to announce several exclusive Weekend experiences that will only be offered to Arnold VIPs.

They include a Meet & Greet with competing International Federation of Body Building professionals, entry into a raffle to win lunch and photo with Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, entry into a raffle to win two Arnold VIP Ticket Packages to the 2012 Arnold Sports Festival, early entry to the Arnold Fitness EXPO, and a commemorative Arnold VIP Gift Tote and VIP Credential.

The new Arnold VIP Ticket Package exclusive features are in addition to premium seating and/or admission to nearly all Weekend events, including the 23rd Annual Arnold Classic and all other professional International Federation of Body Building events held during the Arnold Sports Festival, set for March 3-6, 2011 in downtown Columbus, Ohio.

“Arnold VIP Ticket Package buyers are the most dedicated attendees at the Arnold Sports Festival and we are proud to offer some very special enhancements to reward VIP ticket holders for their loyalty,” said Arnold Sports Festival co-producer Jim Lorimer. “We are excited to offer the Meet and Greet with IFBB professional athletes and early admission each day to the Arnold Fitness EXPO, among other exclusive offerings. These changes will provide a world-class experience for our most dedicated attendees.”

Arnold VIP Ticket Packages will cost just $350 each again in 2011 and are available via pre-sale beginning June 23 at www.ticketmaster.com/arnold. Use pre-sale code FACE. All other tickets to the 2011 Arnold Sports Festival go on sale June 28.

The Meet & Greet with IFBB Professionals will be held the evening of Thursday, March 3 at Veterans Memorial and will feature appearances by professional men’s and women’s bodybuilders, fitness, figure and bikini athletes such as Kai Greene, Phil Heath, Iris Kyle, Adela Garcia and Nicole Wilkins-Lee. (All IFBB athletes competing at the Arnold Classic and related professional events will be invited to the Meet & Greet.)

VIP ticket holders will also be invited to enter the Arnold Fitness EXPO 30 minutes before doors open to the general public on Friday, March 4; Saturday, March 5; and Sunday, March 6.

The Arnold VIP Ticket Packages will include the following 12 tickets:

* Reserved seating for the 23rd Annual Arnold Classic, Bikini International and Arnold Strongman Classic Finals on Saturday, March 5 at Veterans Memorial

* Reserved seating for the Ms. International, Fitness International and Figure International Finals on Friday, March 4 at Veterans Memorial

* Reserved seating for the Arnold Classic and Bikini International Prejudging on Saturday, March 5 at Veterans Memorial

* Admission to the Meet & Greet With IFBB Professional Athletes on Thursday, March 3 at Veterans Memorial

* Admission to the Arnold Party With The Pros – the Official Arnold After-Party – on Saturday, March 5 at the LC Pavilion

* Admission to the Arnold Amateur IFBB Fitness, Figure and Bikini Prejudging on Thursday, March 3 at Veterans Memorial

* Admission to the Arnold Amateur IFBB Men’s and Women’s Bodybuilding Prejudging on Friday, March 4 at Veterans Memorial

* Three days admission to the Arnold Fitness EXPO and all events included with Daily EXPO ticket. Arnold Fitness EXPO admission includes entrance 30 minutes before doors open to general public.

* Admission to the Ask Arnold Training Seminar on Sunday, March 6 at Veterans Memorial

* One ticket that is redeemable for a commemorative VIP Tote Bag that will include a Special VIP credential.

Presale for the VIP Package, as well as tickets for separate parts of the Arnold 2011, will begin on June 23rd, which is this Wednesday. For more on what events will be on presale this Wednesday, go here:

http://www.ticketmaster.com/promo/j4w9k7

One more piece of advice, I've been told that if you want a good hotel within good walking distance of the Columbus Convention Center, it's best to go on and book your hotel NOW, or else you will be walking farther or need to catch a cab. Just some advice, that's all.

Have a great weekend, everyone, and to those competing at the Jr. Nationals in Chi-town this weekend, GOOD LUCK!! :)

2010 Post-Arnold Poll Results and New Poll for April 2010

Thank you to everyone that voted in the 2010 Post-Arnold polls. I asked "Do you agree with the placings" for each of the pro categories (Ms. International, Fitness International, Figure International)

For Ms. International, 55% said No, while 45% said Yes. For proof of voting, click here: http://poll.pollcode.com/y9dn_result

For Fitness International, an overwhelming 75% of you said NO, while 25% said Yes. To view the poll yourself, click here: http://poll.pollcode.com/zse_result

For Figure International, much like Fitness International, an overwhelming of you (71%) said no, while only 29% said Yes. To view proof of voting, click here: http://poll.pollcode.com/oSZ_result

While the voting is over, you can still post your comments on the links I provided you, or leave a comment below.

For this month, the poll is How do you feel about IFBB Pro Bikini, with its first couple of shows in the books? Your choices are:

• I think it's a great addition to the IFBB
• I need to see the rest of this year's shows to make an opinion
• Just another T and A division for the IFBB

Results to be revealed at the end of the month.

2010 Figure International Results (Nicole Makes History; Erin is Bridemaid Again; Heather Shines; Mindi's Streak is Over; Felicia Rebounds; Larissa is Vegas Bound)

Nicole Wilkins-Lee came as a favorite to win for the simple fact that she was the reigning Figure Olympia champion. There were those wondering would the soft trend continue in 2010 or would someone a bit harder take the Figure International title. Whether fans liked it or not (and trust me, there's a lot that DON'T like it one bit), soft is in for figure, and could be in for the long haul as Nicole (with a perfect score) captured the Figure International title. This win makes her the second woman to ever win both the Figure International and Figure Olympia titles, joining the likes of Jenny Lynn. Unlike Jenny, though, Nicole is the first female EVER to simultaneously reign as Figure International AND Figure Olympia champion. All thoughts and feelings aside about the direction of figure, I would like to say congrats to Nicole on this achievement.

For those that wonder where I stand on the whole figure issue, be on the lookout for a blog post about it in the very near future.

Erin Stern was once again runner-up at a figure contest, after she was runner-up at last year's Ft. Lauderdale show. She is someone that MANY people would love to see the new figure look go around. Erin's not hard, but she had an attainable athletic look that no one would mistake her for being a bikini competitor. Presentation is key in figure, and if Erin can nail it soon, I don't see her leaving the top rankings in figure for quite some time, regardless of the trend.

Heather Mae French might just have the soft look that people wouldn't mind see awarded. Personally, I thought she was the more balanced of the top six, and her shape was incredible. I don't get the bright pink, though. Kinda hurts my eyes, and I can see why she might have not gotten 2nd place...or even 1st place. It will be interesting if a simple change in suit color affect her placing, should she decide to leave the pink route. Speaking of suits, her two-piece suits reminds me of a certain former figure competitor that goes by the name of Christine Pomponio-Pate. Click here and here and see if you can spot what I'm talking about.

Mindi Smith's streak of victories came to a end this weekend, as she placed 4th in a tough line-up. Some people said that she looked a bit disappointed when her name was called. Well..she's been hearing nothing but first, first, first her entire figure career, so I think she has every right to feel a bit disappointed. Noticed I said disappointed, not bitter. She came in a bit harder than what she did at the Phoenix Pro, and that might have been her downfall. Nethertheless, she's heading to the Olympia, and will no doubt find a way to make a big statement as a figure star to watch in 2010 and beyond.

Felicia Romero bounced back from a fourth place position at the Phoenix Pro to a fifth place finish at the Arnold. No, that is not a typo. Yes, you're probably wondering how can anyone bounce back from a fourth place finish going to a FIFTH place finish? Simple, her physique improved from the Phoenix Pro. She keeps this up, and she will be back to her winning ways before you say "UNCLE!!" BTW, interesting colors on the one-piece suit, Felicia.

Rounding out the top 6 was someone that surprised me last year, Larissa Reis. The woman looked incredible and muscular, but it flowed evenly. Maybe it's just me, but it seems her legs somewhat overpower the rest of her physique, which isn't surprising as most Brazilian woman have incredible leg structure. If she can balance her legs with her upper body, or vice versa, then she could be a dangerous threat to the figure scene for quite a while.

All six beautiful ladies are set to have a date with destiney, as all six are qualified for the 2010 Figure Olympia.

Rest of the Best:
Monica Brant, the eternal fan favorite, placed just shy out of the top 6, with a smaller yet conditioned physique. If I can count the amount of people that want to see this look of figure awarded again, I would be one rich...fill in the blank. :) Kristi Tauti's tight physique was awarded a eighth-place spot. Andrea Watson aka The Figure Hobbit, made her Arnold debut in awesome faction, despite, like Mindi Smith, her winning streak came to an end as well. She will rebound, just like Rosa Marie Romero, who's coming off the heals of her breakout performance at the Phoenix Pro, which earned her an Olympia qualification. Like I said before, there may not be a more elegent poser in figure like Rosa. She brings something new and different to the table, and it will be interesting to see if she brings it in her first Olympia this September. Monica Mark-Escalante placed 11th, looking FAR better than what she did at the Phoenix Pro. A little more exposure and conditioning on her part, and she will be a force to reckon with in the very near future. Latisha Wilder (who placed 12th) STILL doesn't get any love from the judges, as many people (yours truly) don't seem to get what Latisha is doing wrong. Maybe one day, the judged will get it.Candice Houston and Christina Casoni placed 13th and 14th, respectively. Krissy Chin and Kim Tilden tied for 15th place. Sherlyn Roy (minus her signature flower), Alicia Harris and Angela Mraz round out the deep figure field.

FULL RESULTS:

1. Nicole Wilkins-Lee
2. Erin Stern
3. Heather Mae French
4. Mindi Smith
5. Felicia Romero
6. Larissa Reis
7. Monica Brant
8. Kristi Tauti
9. Andrea Watson
10. Rosa-Maria Romero
11. Monica Mark-Escalante
12. Latisha Wilder
13. Candice Houston
14. Christina Casoni
15. Krissy Chin - Tie
15. Kim Tilden - Tie
17. Sherlyn Roy
18. Alicia Harris
19. Angela Mraz

Do you agree or disagree with the placings? Share your thoughts on the comments below.

Arnold 2010 Poll Results

Thanks to everyone that voted in the Arnold 2010 polls. According to you, all three current Olympia champions will go on to win this year's Arnold in their respective divisions. Will you be right? We'll find out tonight!

Here's the results of the polls:

Ms. International
Lisa Aukland 9%
Dayana Cadeau 6%
Iris Kyle 30%
Debi Laszewski 17%
Mah-Ann Menz 0%
Yaxeni Oriquen Garcia 7%
Jeannie Paparone 2%
Betty Pariso 2%
Alina Popa 13%
Brenda Raganot 6%
Elena Shportun-Willemer 2%
Antoinette Thompson 4%
Dena Westerfield 4%

Fitness International
Myriam Capes 0%
Regain De Silva 3%
Nicole Duncan 0%
Tina Durkin 3%
Allison Either 3%
Adela Garcia 37%
Oksana Grishina 6%
Tanji Johnson 23%
Julie Palmer 3%
Kayde Puckett 11%
Camala Rodriguez 3%
Sylvia Tremblay 3%
Kizzy Vaines 0%
Bethany Wagner 0%
Trish Warren 6%

Figure International
Monica Brant 17%
Cristiana Casoni 6%
Krissy Chin 4%
Alicia Harris 0%
Candice Houston 0%
Heather Mae French 13%
Monica Mark-Escalante 2%
Angela Mraz 4%
Larissa Reis 2%
Felicia Romero 13%
Rosa Marie Romero 0%
Sherlyn Roy 0%
Mindi Smith 4%
Erin Stern 2%
Kristi Tauti 0%
Kim Tilden 0%
Andrea Watson 8%
Latisha Wilder 2%
Nicole Wilkins-Lee 23%

Don't forget the catch the free webcast tonight! It will kick off at 7PM Eastern/6PM Central.

http://webcast.bodybuilding.com/fitshow/2010arnold/arnold-classic-webcast.html

2010 Arnold FitChat TOMORROW!

Tomorrow afternoon (at 4PM Eastern/3PM Central), FitGems Nation will sponsor the 2010 Arnold Womens FitChat. For this FitChat, we'll be discussing the Fitness International, Figure International, Ms. International, and the Arnold Amateur (Women's Bodybuilding, Fitness, Figure, Bikini). In addition to the above, we'll be discussing the following:

* Predictions for each division
* How well the current Olympia champions will fare in the Arnold
* Who will have a breakout performance and break the "glass ceiling" Which pro debuts will be the most impressive
* Thoughts on why Pro Bikini didn't make the 2010 Arnold Sports Festival and was it or was it not the right decision and the announcement of Pro Bikini joining the Arnold in 2011
* And more!

As of this writing, there are no special guests, but don't be surprised if a Arnold competitor from the present or past stops by to chat for a bit about the Arnold.

Here's the link to the FitChat: http://www.fitgemsnation.net/page/fitchat-1

Please join us tomorrow at 4PM Eastern/3PM Central. Looking forward to seeing many of you at the FitChat! LESS THAN ONE WEEK AWAY FROM THE ARNOLD!!!!!!

2010 Arnold Competitor Interview: Monica-Mark Escalante

The Arnold is just around the corner, and one of the rookies that plans on making a statement, or should I say a "Mark", on the Figure International front is Monica Mark-Escalante. Monica won the 2007 Ironman Figure competition and was deemed by many to be a future IFBB Pro. Now entering her first year competing as a pro, she will now get her opportunity to compete amongst the best in the world. Despite getting ready for two shows in the span of only a couple of weeks, Monica was gracious enough to grant FitGems an interview prior to her Arnold debut and her pro debut in less than two weeks at the Phoenix Pro.

FitGems Nation: You are making your pro debut at the Figure International in a few weeks! How does it feel to make your pro debut in one of the biggest shows of the year?
Monica Mark-Escalante: I will be making my pro debut at the Phoenix Pro on Feb 20. The irony is that the first show I ever did was in Phoenix. That means my first show as an amateur and a pro will both have been in Phoenix.

(Yeah, should have checked on the whole pro debut thing, my bad.)

(Monica winning 2007 Ironman Figure-Picture from Muscular Development)

FitGems: In 2007, you won the Ironman Pro Figure and was dubbed a future IFBB Figure Pro. Two years later, the dream became a reality when you won the Team Universe. Can you describe how it felt to finally call yourself a pro?
Monica: Turning pro in 2009 was a dream come true. Since I was 18 years old, I wanted to be a pro figure competitor. To finally accomplish that feat after all that time is an awesome feeling.

FitGems: In 2007 and 2008, you competed with a somewhat hard look, yet last year, you came in softer and apparently it did the trick.  What changes did you make in your training between 2007 and now, and what changes (if any) do you plan to make as you enter the IFBB?
Monica: In 2007 and 2008, I came in harder than I did in 2009. During the 2009 prep period, I scaled back my cardio (relative to the previous 2 years), slightly increased my healthy fat consumption, and decreased the intensity/volume of my weight training. I also did not carb deplete/carb load in the days prior to the show; this helped me stay relatively softer come the pre-judging. These changes helped me to produce the physique that eventually helped me to capture the pro card.

FitGems: What is the ideal figure look to you? There are a lot of opinions out there.
Monica: In my opinion, my ideal figure is similar to the look I brought to the 2007 USA’s in Las Vegas. I came in well conditioned, tight, and fairly hard but still did not have any freaky striations on my body. I was also slightly more muscular as compared to the 2009 look. In my opinion, however, nice curves with good symmetry and proportion are the keys to winning physique.

FitGems: You look like a Hollywood starlet? Is Hollywood in your future (or at least a TV gig?) LOL.
Monica: I am flattered that you think I look like a Hollywood starlet, but I have never really thought much about becoming a TV star. I guess if Jillian (the trainer from the Biggest Loser) ever moves on, I might want to try out for her spot…hahaha.

(Monica's ideal figure look from 2007 USAs-Picture from Muscular Development)

FitGems: What changes (if any) do you expect with figure now that the bikini division has survived its first full year?
Monica: I don’t believe that many changes will take place in figure despite the new bikini division. Bikini and figure already have their own unique looks that differentiate the two classes. I just hope that figure does not eventually start to fade out like the “Fitness” division has over the years.

FitGems: What changes (if any) would you like to see in figure, or any of the female divisions for that matter?
Monica: Now that the bikini division is here, I would like to see figure winners to be able to come in well conditioned, tight, and fairly hard with a decent amount of muscle mass. Other than that, I don’t really see any changes I would personally make in the female divisions.

FitGems: I know you’re stoked to be on stage with Monica Brant, who’ve you mentioned is your idol. What does that mean to you, to have her as a competitor in your Arnold debut?
Monica: Being on stage next to Monica Brant will be one of the highlights of my career. I have admired her physique and her career over the years, so competing with her is a true honor.

FitGems: Where do you see yourself ranked at the Arnold? Top 10? Top 6? Dare I say…winner!? (I mean, we ARE guaranteed a new champion with the reigning champ Zivile Raudoniene in WWE)
Monica: I don’t like to make any predictions about my placing in shows. I do, however, set goals for myself. My ultimate goal is to win the Arnold, but I realize that I will be on stage with some of the best Figure competitors of the world. Cracking the top 5 at the Arnold would be a great place to start.

FitGems: Where do you rank the Arnold competition with the rest of the figure contests of the year, including the Olympia?
Monica: I rank the Arnold and the Olympia as the two most prestigious competitions a competitor can ever compete in. The women that compete at these events are all true champions and they have earned their right to be on that stage.

(A newly refined Monica @ 2009 USAs-Picture from Muscular Development)

FitGems: I heard through the grapevine (more specifically, Juan Carlos Lopez) that you are pretty strong in the gym. Is that true?
Monica: I think I know the story you heard about me being strong in the gym. I can’t really deny that I am fairly strong. I like to train hard, so through the years I would say that I have acquired a good amount of strength.

FitGems: What is one thing that most fans may not know about you?
Monica: The things most fans may not know about me is that I’m pretty shy. Sure I like to stand on stage and be behind the camera, but put me in a room full of strangers and I feel somewhat uncomfortable.

FitGems: Do you have any special talents (Oh yeah, as Mr. Brown of Meet the Browns would say, “NOTHING NASTY!!” Keep it clean as crystal. LOL.  )
Monica: My special talents lie in the kitchen. I’m a creative cook and love to make healthy meals that don’t taste like “diet” food.

FitGems: After the Arnold, what plans do you have for 2010, as well as plans for your pro figure career?
Monica: After the Phoenix pro and the Arnold, I hope I get a qualification for the Olympia so I can focus on preparing for that and perhaps some shows around the Olympia. If I don’t qualify in Phoenix or at the Arnold, then I will probably try to qualify for the Olympia at the California Pro in May. As far as my figure career, I hope I can inspire others to be the best they can be on and off the stage. I would like to do more fitness modeling and eventually maybe co-author a book on fitness with my husband.

FitGems: Do you have any closing words for your fellow competitors and fans that will be seeing you at the Arnold in March?
Monica: My closing words for my fellow competitors at the Arnold are “keep training hard so we can bring an awesome lineup for the show.” As for my fans, I want to say thank you for your support.

FitGems: Where can fans reach you? Do you have a MySpace, Facebook, Twitter, etc.?
Monica: My fans can reach me via my website at www.monfit.com. My face page is up for now along with my contact info as the site is still under construction. It should be finished soon. I am also on Myspace and Facebook.

(Welcome to the IFBB, Monica!!)
picture from RxMuscle

Thank you Monica for taking the time to do this interview, and on behalf of the FitGems Nation, we wish you the very best of luck in your pro debut in Pheonix and your Arnold debut in Columbus!