From the days of Eugen Sandow in the late 19th century to the competitive stages of the New York Pro, the sport has continuously transformed, creating legends and reshaping fitness culture.

Every Winner of the New York Pro Bodybuilding Show

The New York Pro is one of the most prestigious bodybuilding competitions. Held annually, it has produced some of the finest champions who have gone on to dominate the Olympia stage. Iconic athletes like Kai Greene, Dexter Jackson, and Roelly Winklaar have carved their names in history by winning this event.

• Kai Greene (2011, 2013, 2014) – The Predator's intense routines and eccentric style made him a fan favorite.
• Dexter Jackson (2008) – The Blade has won almost every title in bodybuilding, with the New York Pro adding to his illustrious career.
• Roelly Winklaar (2018) – Known for his insane mass and muscle bellies, Roelly’s victory here cemented his place among the elite.

Each winner showcases the variety of physiques and training styles that have come to define the sport.

The History of Bodybuilding: From Sandow to Classic Physique

Bodybuilding as we know it began with Eugen Sandow, often considered the father of modern bodybuilding. Sandow’s exhibitions in the early 1900s were some of the first instances of people marveling at a sculpted physique. Over time, the sport developed with the introduction of competitions like Mr. Olympia in 1965, founded by Joe Weider.

As bodybuilding evolved, the modern-day Classic Physique division was introduced, aiming to bring back the look and aesthetics of the past, blending old-school aesthetics with modern-day competition standards. Champions in this category, like Chris Bumstead, embody the elegance of the past while pushing the boundaries of today's fitness.

Lee Priest’s Insights on Golden Era’s Bodybuilding

Lee Priest, known for his outspoken personality and incredible physique, has long been a critic of modern bodybuilding’s focus on mass over aesthetics. In many interviews, Priest often highlights that the Golden Era – the period during the 1960s to 1980s – was about creating a balanced and aesthetically pleasing physique. According to him, legends like Arnold Schwarzenegger, Frank Zane, and Sergio Oliva epitomized the art of bodybuilding, focusing not just on size but also on symmetry, proportion, and conditioning.

In Priest’s view, modern competitors should revisit the principles of the Golden Era, where training focused on high-volume workouts, a strong connection to each muscle group, and building physiques that were admired for their artistry.

The Golden Era: Embracing the Essence of Old School Bodybuilding Training

The Golden Era of bodybuilding is often referred to as the pinnacle of the sport. During this time, training routines were simpler yet highly effective, emphasizing quality over quantity. Bodybuilders trained for strength, aesthetics, and performance, incorporating exercises like bench presses, squats, deadlifts, and pull-ups.

Key characteristics of Golden Era training included:

• High-volume training: Most athletes train 5–6 days a week, sometimes even twice a day.
• Focus on compound movements: Exercises that engage multiple muscle groups were preferred.
• Mind-muscle connection: Bodybuilders were deeply attuned to how their muscles responded to different exercises, adjusting for optimal growth.
• Minimal equipment: Unlike today’s high-tech machines, the old school relied on barbells, dumbbells, and basic machines.

Top 10 Accessories to Carry While Going to the Gym in 2024

In today's fitness world, accessories can be crucial in optimizing your workout. Whether you're training like the Golden Era legends or following modern methods, these items will enhance your gym experience in 2024:

1. Lifting Straps: Essential for deadlifts and heavy pulling movements.
2. Weightlifting Belt: Supports your lower back during squats and deadlifts.
3. Resistance Bands: Great for warm-ups, stretching, and adding extra resistance to workouts.
4. Wrist Wraps: Provides support during pressing movements.
5. Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is key, especially during intense workouts.
6. Pre-Workout Supplements: To give you an energy boost and improve focus during training.
7. Towel: Hygiene is critical when moving from machine to machine in the gym.
8. Gym Gloves: Helps prevent calluses and improve grip during heavy lifts.
9. Smartwatch: Tracks your heart rate, calories burned, and overall progress.
10. Foam Roller: For post-workout recovery and improving muscle flexibility.

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