Athlete Spotlight

Athlete Elite Spotlight: Nixlot Dameus

Nixlot Dameus, a respected Elite Athlete and gym owner in Philadelphia, sits down with us to discuss his rise through fitness and where he draws his inspiration and drive. Nixlot runs through his favorite Gaspari products to keep him going through his busy schedule and talks about his mentality around training.

Athlete Elite Spotlight: Leland DeVaughn Jr

  In this week's episode of Athlete Elite Spotlight, we have Leland DeVaughn Jr. joining us to explain his life in the world of bodybuilding. Leland gives his favorite Gaspari products to take on prep, as well as a look inside his life as he works his life around fitness.

Athlete Elite Spotlight: Jordan Wise

Jordan Wise, a new addition to #TeamGaspari sits down to share with us his journey in fitness, some of his favorite Gaspari Nutrition products, and where he hopes to go in this bodybuilding lifestyle

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Richie's Old School Training Tips

Arnold Press

Rich Gaspari and #TeamGaspari Elite Athlete Zeek Andrews demonstrate the proper way to do the Arnold Press, made famous by legendary bodybuilder, Arnold Schwarzenegger.Try it out for yourself and see how combining old school techniques will improve your workouts.

Two Arm Dumbbell Row for Thickness

Rich Gaspari shares in this segment of Old School Training Techniques how a two armed dumbbell row can be used to increase the thickness in your back and arms.Moving slowly through a workout is incredibly beneficial and helps you maximize the energy you put into every workout. Rich demonstrates here the proper way to do a two armed dumbbell row for increasing your thickness. When combined with our other training techniques, prepare to see the difference!

3 Parts of the Triceps Old School Training Techniques

In this segment of Old School Training Techniques, Rich Gaspari explains the three unique parts of the triceps, along with how to train each individual partCombining these exercises into your triceps days will help build every part of your triceps, to make sure all three parts are as strong as possible!

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Supplement Corner

Supplement Corner: HMB

HMB is the acronym for a mega complicated word:  beta-hydroxy beta-methylbutyrate. HMB has  gained a lot of popularity as a dietary supplement in the health and fitness community for its potential to aid muscle growth and recovery. HMB does occur naturally in the body – when your body breaks down the branched chain amino acid, leucine, that’s essential for protein synthesis and muscle repair But. As with all naturally occurring substances, the body just doesn't produce enough of it for our needs, so we must supplement HMB to realize its effect. Several studies looked at the effects of taking HMB with creatine in resistance trained athletes and found that taking 3 grams of HMB, along with varying doses of creatine, significantly improved strength and high intensity exercise performance. It also aided muscle growth and reduced body fat. These studies demonstrated that taking supplemental HMB  can affect lean body mass by...

Supplement Corner: Glutamine

Glutamine is another amino acid naturally produced by the body. But, even though it's the most abundant, at times we still don't make enough of it for a hard training athlete. That's why it’s considered a “conditionally essential amino acid.”  Glutamine is found in meat and other animal products. Consuming these foods is the simplest way to get high amounts of it. Physical stress is very hard on the body and effects a lot of our systems. The two most important to us is our digestive system and our immune system. Glutamine has shown to support many of the body's processes, particularly good digestive function and good gut health.   It also plays a roll in fueling the body by sending nitrogen and carbon to many different parts of the body.   It is estimated that a typical high animal sourced protein diet contains 3 to 6 grams per day. However,...

Supplement Corner: BCAA's

Branched-chain amino acids, or BCAAs,  are a group of three essential amino acids: leucine, isoleucine and valine.  These BCAAs, particularly leucine, have shown to be the key nutrient for turning on protein synthesis in muscle. As you exercise, amino acids, particularly the branched chains, gradually deplete. If this goes on long enough, muscle protein breakdown occurs and you go from muscle building to tearing it down. Since branched chain aminos are already broken down into individual amino acids, they are utilized immediately. As soon as they hit the small intestine they're immediately absorbed into the blood stream and on their way to where you need them – muscle.   When you're supplementing BCAAs, bear in mind that the 2:1:1 Ratio of leucine to valine to isoleucine is the only ratio that has scientifically backed studies to show that BCAAs positively effects protein synthesis after training.   However, more recent studies...

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Gaspari Kitchen

Steamed Chilean Sea Bass

Chilean sea bass is one of the most expensive fish you can buy. That being the case, a fool proof way to cook it is what you need. And I'm the man for the job.

Soup

Stretch your meal's volume by making soup.When calories are restricted it seems like cravings and the will to stuff yourself increase. How can you stretch those meager diet portions? Make soup! For very few added calories, you can get a lot of milage bit of a little bit of food.Recipe: 1 cup chopped celery 1 cup chopped carrot 1 cup canned plum tomatoes 1 1/2 cups chopped onion 1 cup sliced mushrooms 8 oz chicken breast, cut into chunks 1 tsp salt 1/2 tsp black pepper 1 tbsp extra virgin oil 4 cups chicken stock 1 tbsp chopped basil Directions: Heat 1 TBS olive oil to a pre heated 4 quart sauce pan and add the onion, salt and pepper. Lower the heat and cook the onion until it's browned and well caramelized. Add the chicken and sauté with the onion until the chicken turns white - about three min. Then add the chicken...

Rice Pizza

The term “pizza” here is, especially for an Italian, EXTREMELY generous. It's more aptly named “rice pancake topped with cheese and tomato.” But, from a purely psychological aspect, it could be considered comforting.
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Gaspari Blog

Spotting Vitamin B Deficiency Symptoms

Vitamin B is vital for overall health, yet its significance is often overlooked until deficiency symptoms appear. These symptoms can impact energy levels and brain function, among other aspects of life. Let's dive into the signs that may indicate a lack of this essential nutrient and explore the roles it plays in our body. Understanding the Importance of Vitamin B The Role of Vitamin B in Energy Production and Metabolism Vitamin B is not just a single vitamin but rather a complex of eight different types that contribute to the body's energy production and metabolism. It converts food into energy, ensures that our cells function properly, and maintains energy levels. For athletes, B vitamins are essential for breaking down proteins and carbohydrates, aiding in red blood cell production. Inadequate B vitamins can slow metabolism, impacting muscle performance and recovery. Vitamin B's Impact on Brain Function and Mood Vitamin B's influence...

Is Pre-Workout Necessary? Understanding Its Role in Fitness

When elevating your fitness game, the question often arises: is pre-workout necessary? For many, the ritual of taking pre-workout supplements has become as synonymous with gym bags and sweat towels as the workout itself. But what role do these energizing concoctions really play in our fitness routines? In this blog, we'll dive into the science and purpose behind pre-workout supplements, helping you understand their potential impact on your athletic performance and whether they're a crucial part of your regimen or simply an optional boost. What Pre-Workout Supplements Are and Their Purpose Pre-workout supplements are like the pep talk your body needs before engaging in the physical dialogue of exercise. These supplements are designed with one goal in mind: to prepare your body and mind for the demands of a high-intensity workout. Key Ingredients in Pre-Workout Supplements At the heart of most pre-workout supplements are critical ingredients that each contribute to...

The Vital Role of Rest and Recuperation in Muscle Growth for Bodybuilders and Strength Athletes

In the realm of bodybuilding and strength training, the quest for muscle growth and increased mass is a relentless pursuit. It's a journey characterized by strenuous workouts, intense repetitions, and pushing one's limits. However, in this pursuit of physical excellence, there's a crucial yet often overlooked aspect: the significance of rest and recuperation in the muscle-building process. Muscle growth doesn't occur in the gym amidst sets and reps but rather during the periods of rest and recovery. It's an adaptive response to the stress placed on muscles during workouts. Understanding this fundamental principle is paramount for athletes aiming to maximize their muscle gains effectively.   Understanding the Muscle Growth Process At the core of muscle growth lies the concept of hypertrophy. This phenomenon is triggered by subjecting muscles to resistance or stress, typically through weightlifting or resistance training. When muscles encounter this stress, they experience microscopic damage at the cellular...

When to Take L-theanine: Timing and Benefits Explained

In our fast-paced world, finding natural ways to maintain a balanced state of mind is more important than ever. L-theanine, a remarkable amino acid found predominantly in green tea leaves, has emerged as a beacon of hope for many seeking calmness and mental clarity. As we explore the optimal timing and array of benefits associated with L-theanine, let's dive into how this natural supplement can enhance your daily routine and overall well-being. What is L-theanine and Its Primary Benefits? L-theanine is a non-protein amino acid famously abundant in green and loose-leaf tea. Unlike the amino acids used to build proteins in the body, L-theanine directly influences our central nervous system. It's celebrated for its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier, modulating neurotransmitters that are pivotal for relaxation, cognitive function, and a well-regulated mood. Stress Relief and Relaxation The hustle and bustle of daily life can take a toll on our...

What Does Beta-Alanine Do for the Body?

Have you ever pushed through a grueling workout, feeling your muscles burn with each additional rep, and wondered if there was a way to power up your endurance performance? Enter beta-alanine, a non-essential amino acid that has become a buzzword in the fitness community. Let's dive into the science behind this popular supplement and discover how it can potentially transform your exercise routine and muscle performance. Introduction to Beta-Alanine and Carnosine Beta-alanine is a naturally occurring non-essential amino acid that has a significant role in the synthesis of carnosine, a compound found primarily in our muscles and brain. Unlike essential amino acids, our body can produce beta-alanine on its own, and it's not directly used to build proteins. Instead, beta-alanine combines with the essential amino acid L-histidine to produce carnosine, which acts as a buffering agent, helping to maintain optimal pH levels in our muscles during high-intensity exercise. This naturally...

Whey vs. Egg Protein: Unveiling the Optimal Choice for Athletes' Muscle Building

In the realm of muscle-building supplements, protein powders have held an eminent position, catering to the needs of athletes and fitness enthusiasts worldwide. For years, whey protein stood as the gold standard, but recent supply chain challenges have led to a resurgence of interest in egg protein. This shift has prompted a reevaluation of their merits, unveiling their unique attributes and benefits. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the differences between whey and egg proteins, assess their efficacy for athletes, and explore the modern advancements that have revitalized egg protein's standing in the fitness domain.   Understanding Whey Protein Whey protein, derived from milk during the cheese-making process, consists of two primary forms: whey isolate and whey concentrate. It boasts a high biological value, indicating its superior absorption and utilization by the body. With an impressive amino acid profile rich in essential amino acids (EAAs), particularly leucine, whey protein...

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