My Cheat Day Confession

I’m with you on the chesse burger, but how does beer make you strong?
Anyway, my cheat foods are too numerous to mention in complete, but some of them are Meat Lover’s Pizza from Pizza Hut, chocolate shakes, chocolate chip cookies, and egg nog (near christmas).

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leanhybr Reply:
November 19th, 2009 at 7:08 pm

David,

Beer makes us weak

The truth is my alcohol consumption is pretty low.

I just like being inflammatory!

Yes… Egg Nog is good.

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Jenith Flex Reply:
November 19th, 2009 at 8:29 pm

Dont waste your energy arguing with critics… Prove them wrong,,,,thats the best “revenge”

Dont make excuses to hang onto patterns that lead no where. You have great potential to prove yourself beyond a resonable doubt.

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John Walker Reply:
November 19th, 2009 at 11:06 pm

Hey Guy’s
I’m a brother from the United Kingdom and unfortunately we’re
classed as being part of Europe which is ironic considering we’ve
fought for centuries to avoid such a fate (I digress)
The statement that beer makes one weak is inacurate, there are
many good things about beer (not including the taste) that make it
an ideal beverage for men, it is the over consumption of beer that
is the problem! not beer it’s self.
Please understand that even drinking too much water will have an
adverse effect on your body.
Please ignore wankers like James no matter how hard that may be
as arguing with the likes of him only feeds his overblown sense of
his own importance.
James has to realise that he has an opinion but the trouble with
opinions is that they’re like assholes (everyone’s got one)
Warmest Regards
John Walker.

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Peggy Reply:
November 19th, 2009 at 10:38 pm

I consider it ignorant denial. Deprivation is not healthy! When you deprive, you obsess over it. I control with moderation. My workouts reflect a day of weakness as opposed to strength & vice versa…I will never claim to be perfect, how dull would that be? GOTTA LOVE A COLD ONE!!!

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Khader Omar Reply:
November 21st, 2009 at 7:07 pm

Hey Elliott,

You and mike shouldn’t be wasted your time on this guy, who clearly has no idea what you and mike are trying to achieve, unfortunately you get people that are narrow minded, so best thing to do is not to waste your energy on them. I can understand your frustration and anger on reading this guy comment, while you & mike are working hard on helping the average Joe reach their goals.

However my favorite cheats’ foods are chickens burgers, kebabs and fried chickens so on. The list goes on, a typical students diet.

Elliott I’ll love to purchase your program but I recently purchased Hardgainer Project X from Jeff Anderson, and haven’t started working out yet, I’m waiting for the Christmas holidays, which we get 6 weeks break from uni, so I could start working out properly furthermore can you give me some advice on how to cooperate some of your methods into the Hardgainer project x program.

Thank You

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Marco Reply:
November 26th, 2009 at 5:11 pm

Schwarzenegger used extensively beer for carbs load so that shouldn’t be so bad

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Right on Elliott. This dude is on crack. The hole part about Greek status template is crap. Templates are meant to be broken. I’m down with what your saying. Blast this dude.

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The guy is most likely very skinny and as you said not very strong. The only people I know who maintain both considerable strength and low body fat are competitive gymnasts and even they gain weight in the off seasons.
My weakness is for beer and pizza parlor food. Pizza, cheese steaks, strombolis and the like.

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James does have a good point that we are slacking in our over all fitness as a nation. However, if we lived our lives or based everything on the world around us we would be lost. We decide how we live and bump James! I am heavier than i have been in 6 years but i have been going heavy in the gym. I need to get back on track but i too am very strong and doubt James would want to stand in front of me and contest that. I tend to cheat more than once a week and that is probably my biggest problem. I have an issue here lately with ice cream. Good old fashioned chocolate ice cream after almost every meal. James, come workout with me one day and push what i push. Then eat ya some ice cream and relax!

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I’d like to buy your program Elliot and Mike, however after getting to the order page I noticed a subscription amount of $49/month.

What is the subscription amount for? I bailed when I saw that.

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leanhybr Reply:
November 19th, 2009 at 7:11 pm

Hameed,

We created the coaching program to be with people as they
move through the program and to support everyone… especially
beginners.

But we’ve come to realize that TONS of you want the program without
the video coaching… so, keep an eye out as we will soon be re-releasing
the program complete with MY favorite workouts, MINUS the coaching
and subscription cost.

This will probably be early next week.

Thanks!!

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Hameed Bhatti Reply:
November 19th, 2009 at 7:31 pm

Thanks! Looking forward to that!

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Joseph Reply:
November 19th, 2009 at 9:26 pm

Since I already purchased the program will I have access to this re-release?
I am trainer and gym owner myself so I don’t feel like I need the personal coaching, but I love reading information about fitness and getting new ideas for programs. You can always learn something from other coaches who are in the trenches every day. Thanks and keep up the good work.

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leanhybr Reply:
November 19th, 2009 at 10:05 pm

YES! Everyone who purchased a copy gets FREE lifetime updates
to the book.

I really think the extra sections that we’ve added will clear up
some of the confusion about what workouts to do.

Always looking for feedback too… so, if there is anything
else that you feel the books are lacking let us know and
we’ll get busy creating another update.

OMG i honestly cannot believe that guy!! Im europian and to be honest, what in Gods name is wrong with america and the americans?? i love america its great ive travelled there several times and had complete an utter fun. anyway im completly with you elliot and like you said if you in single digits you can’t be that strong. your program is better than any i have ever come accross and being only 16 its amazing considering ive done more to my body in 3-4 months than i have with at least 3-4 years or my martial arts!! now one of my favourite cheat foods would deffently be the american double cheese burger with some bacon i love it. this guy should take his BS somerwher else and not to be funny but elliot againts i think he was called james, elliot my friend you would surely win. and to be honest i would die for the strength you have and the body aswell. another cheat food is must be a lil bit of chocolate i would gladly rebel elliot and i stand by your side. thanks for the great program and you really are in great shape.

Chris

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Having lived in Europe myself for a little while, I do understand what perspective James is coming from, but I do believe he was being disrespectful and not considering all the facts. Fat people, weak or strong are everywhere, Europe too!
So here is a beer toast to Elliott for not being afraid to stand up and make available a plan for many people to follow to improve themselves, which is a lot more than what skinny James is doing! Oh, and I like pizza also!

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leanhybr Reply:
November 20th, 2009 at 2:32 am

Thanks Kim You’re awesome!

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F*ck that punk a**. He know’s exactly what it’s like to overweight, as in 50 pounds. Congratulations to him for his weak single digit bodyfat, non-eating a**. Anyway, Beer is #1 on my cheat list. Followed close with cheeseburgers and nachos.

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I have to side with the original comment. I understand we can’t all be perfect; but I want advice on fitness from someone that practices what they preach. You yourself made fun of his being a trainer, commenting that he got a certificate! So I want sound advice from a trainer that works out, eats healthy, and can guide me to meet my goals similarly, not from a trainer that guzzles beer and eats fast food. Set the example for your students.

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Michael Reply:
November 19th, 2009 at 8:23 pm

WOW! I used to think that i had to be in perfect shape to train. But when it comes down to it, it is all in what you are looking for. Do you want strength and muscle or toned and cut? If you want toned and cut i can do it. There are times i go heavy and put on some weight to really push through my workouts but when the time comes, I shred up as well. So what do you want? Someone that knows their body and can go from heavy to shred but altering their workouts or do you want someone that looks cut up that read a book and has no field knowledge? I can understand you want to know that they know what they are doing. The person may have eaten his way to good shape and took a course but is he going to know how to get your body to respond? Our bodies are all different and respond differently to each exercise. I teach my guys to learn their bodies so that they understand how to manipulate it to grow or to cut. I don’t want to train them forever!

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Hey Elliot,

I’d just like to say that I’m from UK, and this guy’s readiness to judge people by the nation they’re from is not something that I or many people I know associate with. I’ve never had the opportunity to travel to America but almost every American I’ve met I’ve gotten on great with.

I find it ironic how he’s ready to slam Americans as fat/whatever when looking so much of the information I rely on to stay in shape comes from the likes of Robert Dos Remedios, Gregg Avedon, Nate Green, etc., and as a keen martial artist many of my favourite athletes come from America, (Matt Serra, Mike Swick, etc.)

Please don’t judge us all by this guy.

As for cheat foods, you nailed my one right there, I like my beer!

Take care man,

Ferg

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leanhybr Reply:
November 20th, 2009 at 2:34 am

Ferg,

Thanks for your comment brother. I don’t in anyway
believe that most Europeans are like this dude.

Best Regards!

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Pizza is probably my number one cheat food. As far as other cheat foods go, I refuse to eat fast food (mcdonalds, burger king, arby’s etc) Subway is the only exception to this. Even though i am of age, I choose to not consume beer. I train too hard to consume those empty calorie beverages that will negatively effect my progress. Whereas other items such as water, milk or Gatorade are a much better source of nutrition. But that’s just me.

That email was pretty funny. No athlete trains at single digit body fat numbers year round. They train on their “heavy side” in off season and cut down in those last few weeks upon preparation to competition day for whatever the sport might be.

For those individuals training at Mike and Elliott’s Gym, I congratulate them. Those are the people that are making a difference in their body and life. Who cares if they don’t have the visual “beach body” going. Everyone has to start somewhere. Everyone has different goals, not everyone is training to compete in the Olympics.

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I’m a big backer of cheat days. I live for those days. I eat to live, I live to eat. Chocolate Chip Cookies (any cookies), ice cream, cakes, greasy cheeseburgers, sausages, potato salad…oh heck, I need to go start my bbq. Keep up the good work.

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leanhybr Reply:
November 20th, 2009 at 2:35 am

Haha! John… I usually pass on the sugary stuff, but I LOVE
fatty / salty stuff!

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hahaha would love to see a video of you smashing your comp after a dumb ass email and then hunt them down!!!

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Hey Elliott, I am new to your website… but I have been training for several years now on an intense fast paced workout, however not as ‘home grown’ as the hybrid muscle way. I am 195lbs, 6′0″, @ <10% BF… so by no means 'chubby', in fact I probably look like the 'Greek template' (or a Mattew Mcconaughey figure), BUT sometimes I wish I COULD gain some weight (fat) instead of having a low BF like I do. This guy that emailed you is simply full of it, and sounds pretty self righteous. Greek status template?!?! come on guy, what percentage of Americans actually look like that?

And yes, beer is actually beneficial to body building (and strength…to a point), one beer a day (of decent quality) provides you with plenty of electrolytes and minerals that you may not get from your food. In fact, it has been proven to hydrate you BETTER than water after intense exercise or training… so the next time you work out, bring a cold one along for afterwards.

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Ahaaa so you like beer Elliot well come to Belgium buddy, we’ve got the worlds best ones here!
My favorite cheat food is probably pizza or fries with lots of mayonaise (that’s right mayonaise, that’s how we do it over here! )

And about the dude from the mail. He’s an idiot, he’s probably the one that’s mediocre. And apperently he hasn’t had a good look at your members. Take that byron dude for example, i’ve seen him in a copple of vids and he’s pretty ripped.
Anyways i’m currently on your LHM program and it’s freakin awsome!

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leanhybr Reply:
November 20th, 2009 at 2:37 am

Thanks Kevin!

Yea, I’ve had a few Belgium beers and they knock the crap out of
me… strong stuff! Awesome!

Byron is a freak for sure!! I wish I could take full credit for him being
so jacked and lean… but he was pretty awesome when he got here.

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heyyy Elliott i got your e book it totally kicks ass. you and sean nalewanyj are the only 2 dudes i get my info from.

hahhahaa that guy is a personal trainer? so what?! im tired of these girly men,who work so hard to get to a ripped 150 and posess the strength of a squirrel. if you train you gotta train like a warrior not a ballerina.

keep up what your doing, your doin good bro

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leanhybr Reply:
November 20th, 2009 at 2:37 am

THanks for joining us Andrew!!

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Elliott, its a refreshing take to be able to see the average american working out. That you guys show us men and wemen who have something to lose and how much work it really takes to lose it. I grow tired of the commercials with the chisled bod’s selling product. I appreciate the honesty you two bring the the arena.

Thanks

Cheat Foods

Beer, Hot Wings & Fries.

Bud

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leanhybr Reply:
November 20th, 2009 at 2:38 am

Thanks Bud… yea, our intention was and is to just be “REAL”.

Nothing made up or fabricated here.

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Hey Eliot, my FAVORITE cheat food is cheddarwurst and an ice cold beer! MMMMMM!
You know, it sucks when you’re doing a really wonderful thing for people to help them acheive, not only fitness but, a better feeling about themselves, then one ….sorry, I have to say it because i can’t think of a better term….. bunghole can send an insulting email. I LOVE my cheat food and honestly when the Pats are on there is nothing better. I could starve myself and feel like crap all the time but life is too short and if you’re going to be healthy you deserve to be happy too.

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It’s too bad that someone would rip on a person who is inspiring others to be the best they can be through fitness and in life. It’s not easy to change habits, and James is exhibit A because it took him 39 years to get to where he wanted to be. That’s the first mistake made with his e-mail to Elliot and Mike.

The second mistake he makes is that his perception of a successful body (being in a single digit BF%) doesn’t mean that it is considered “successful” for another person. Yet, in his writing tone, he blankets his perception as if it’s the world’s standard when it’s definitely not.

When he was 50lbs over-fat, he was inspired by someone to get up and do something about it. This person or group that inspire him was most likely leading a group of people as well. Unfortunately, the third mistake in this e-mail is that it’s also a slap in the face to the person or group who inspired James.

It appears that too much of Jame’s self worth is in un-guaranteed single digit BF%.

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mfing chipotle chicken bowl with black beans, rice, corn, salsa, hot, sour cream, cheese, lettuce, guacamole and chips

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Good for him that he’s perfect. I wonder how he’d have felt if someone took a look at him when he had gone from +50 to +30 pounds and said the same thing. It seems that he is one of those shallow-minded people who values aesthetics over all else. I’d rather be a chubby albeit strong man than a fit albeit weak little bitch any day.

As for foods, that burger looks a little small and lacks bacon. My biggest weakness is probably “all you can eat BBQ”. I’ll eat a Bronto-Burger size serving of ribs every time..

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leanhybr Reply:
November 20th, 2009 at 2:41 am

Scott… you are a big, big man my friend.

2 Brontosaurus burgers for you!

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I am one of those chubby strong guys in my opinion. I tailgate most Sundays and enjoy bbq and beer in excess, on that one day, that is one way I enjoy life. As for the greek template guys, my friends and I show them up regularly at the local gym. As a member of the bench press 400 club I work hard for strength and fitness not just fitness.

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im all for being in shape not exactly cut from stone but in good overall shape that man if you can call him that is INSANE saying u gotta be made from stone anybody with half a fitness brain knows u NEED body fat to stay healthy just like a car too lean u sputter and die. So i say HELL NO to mediocrity and yes to feeling great being healthy and enjoying all that life has to offer.

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Frank Hernandez Reply:
November 19th, 2009 at 7:20 pm

sry got caught up in the moment favorite cheat food has gotta a medium – medium rare bacon bleu cheese burger. oh ok im gonna stop now im gettin hungry

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leanhybr Reply:
November 20th, 2009 at 2:42 am

yea, bleu cheese burger.. mmmm!

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Congratulations James on your “chiseled” body. I myself am by no means chiseled, but as a result of subscribing to programs such as hybrid muscle, underground strength, joe defranco, elite fts, the diesel crew, etc., I have developed crazy strength, power, and athleticism. So James: You keep your clients on the smith, cybex, and life fitness machines, convince them hammer strength is “just like free weights”, then have them do some bicep curls, jog on a treadmill, and finish up with some leg extensions, while we deadlift, squat, and press hundreds of pounds, swing kettlebells and hammers, shoulder some sandbags, flip tires, drag sleds, carry stones, crank out hill sprints, push-ups and pull-ups till we puke, and then chase it all down with cheeseburgers and pizza. Give our workouts a try and see how useful simply being “chiseled”, vascular, and skinny is when your body actually has to perform. By the way James, I wonder if you could provide me with some advice to help me build up my inner chest. My symmetry is off, and I just can’t get the striations I’ve been working for.

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leanhybr Reply:
November 20th, 2009 at 2:43 am

hybrid muscle, underground strength, joe defranco, elite fts,
the diesel crew, etc. — great mentors

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Cheers to the beer.. however our beer here in Canada is quite stronger than what I have had while visiting the US. IF you would like good strong beer head north folks…

OK Seriously now.. keep up the good work guys, this is the first program that I have come across that actually makes any sense.

Thank you

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leanhybr Reply:
November 20th, 2009 at 2:43 am

I bet you’re right about Canadian beer Ken!

haha!

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Hi Elliot.This guy James doesn’t know what he is talking about!The dig about America or your clients pictures wasn’t called for.In europe obesity is getting a lot worse then it use to be,especially in my country which is England!I know this as it’s been on the news a few times this year.I’m also studying to become a personal trainer and got told about the percentage of people that are now over weight.Two of my favourite cheat foods is pizza and cheese burgers!

Chris
England

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One thing I’ve learned is that anyone can type up a great physique on the net lol! What I mean is that in the real world im about 16% bodyfat and average looking but on the net I’m currently 4% bodyfat year round and I’m extremely good looking lol! I’d gather that you’ve gotten my point by now..: ) As far as cheat meals go, I love everything from cheeseburgers to Pizza to fries to just about anything and everything and Ive also lost fat while cheating not just with a meal but with whole cheat days. With that said, and since I am on just about every fitness list, I can’t help but believe that you are going to segway into pimping out cheat to lose by Joel marrion lol.

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leanhybr Reply:
November 20th, 2009 at 2:45 am

haha! Yes Ralph… we will be “pimping”

Joel next week!

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Ralph Reply:
November 20th, 2009 at 4:35 pm

Awesome!!! Ive had great success using the CYWT system!!
Hope all is well!!
~R~

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boneless buffalo wings are the most delicious things on earth i also like pizza and burritos good stuff right there

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Hey Elliott: I wish I had your muscular stature. Look, you put yourself out there, not only in word, but in pics and videos. I’d love to see James do the same. Come on, James! Post a video. Let’s all get to see the man behind the words.

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leanhybr Reply:
November 20th, 2009 at 2:47 am

Carl.. yea, I put myself “out there” and sometimes its a bit
nerve wrecking! But comments like yours and all of the positive
remarks here reminds me why I put my butt on the line like this!

Thanks.

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Okay Elliot,

First of all I am Canadian soooo, I have to say that I love Canadian Beer since the alcohol content is higher than American beer.

Favourite cheat foods, well….

1. Bacon Cheesburger
2. Pizza with chesse, spicy Italian Sausage and onions

As for James, what he needs to realize is that you can look like an underwear model or Greek God for that matter….but that Does Not directly co-relate to superior strength and strength/endurance.

Single joint movements (curls, leg ext, lateral raises), can get you looking good but will not be of assistance if you have to flip a tire or even perform a deep squat for 2-3 hours will gardening!!

Wayne

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leanhybr Reply:
November 20th, 2009 at 2:48 am

I’ve got to get my hands on some of this Canadian beer I keep
hearing about!!

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Congrats Jim for getting to where you are, but that’s as far it goes pal. I too am 42yrs old, was 50 lbs more than I am now and maintain single digit body fat for 8 months a year, and never go above low double-digit the other 4. You say you’ve gotten “several” clients into the same shape. What about the others you didn’t? Unless you’ve only had several clients during your personal training career, did you call the other ones chubby or fat and throw them out of the gym? With that attitude I can see why you would only have had several clients. I could go on but, one last thing, you say “you” got them in that shape, do you give any credit to the people who actually lifted the weights or watched their diet? Come down off your high horse “Sir James” and remember where you came from.

Enough of my ranting. Elliot & Mike, thanks from everyone who will benefit from your knowledge and experience.

Oh, I just bought a case (35 lbs) of chocolate covered cashews that I’ll enjoy to the utmost. And David, I don’t even bother cooking my chocolate chip cookies, I’d rather eat the raw dough. We’ll be thinking of you, James, on our cheat day. Enjoy whatever you deem as your vice.

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Elliott – you shouldn’t have even wasted your time on this vain, narcissistic, condescending jerk. If James chooses to maintain single-digit bodyfat year-round, that’s his decision and good on him. But there’s nothing worse than someone who gets himself in good shape and then, for lack of a better term, goes Evangelical on everyone. Stand on the mountain, Brother James, and bless the pathetic lemmings in the valley below with some of your light! *rolling eyes* If he talks this way to his clients, it’s no wonder that he’s only trained “several” clients.

I’ve been in the single-digits with body-fat. I got there a couple of years ago. It was a great accomplishment, but I didn’t like the way I felt. I lost strength, muscularity, and everyday functioning. I may have had the abs that women supposedly are attracted to (and come to find out isn’t nearly as big a deal as we all think), but with my brain being melted away by lack of adequate calories, I didn’t have a single creative thing to actually, you know, SAY to them. I immediately started lifting heavy again a few months later, added on a good amount of muscle, glycogen, and yes, some fat. Everything about my daily functioning improved dramatically.

Look, I’m not saying Elliott and Mike have a perfect program. I don’t think it exists. If it did, we wouldn’t be looking at 70% of the population being overweight or obese (never mind all the other illnesses and diseases that plague us). But as a fellow Exercise Physiology student myself, I’m always looking for programs that offer me at least one thing that I can incorporate into how I train my clients. Elliott and Mike’s work has definitely provided me with that, and we’re barely into the throes of the program.

Keep up the good work. Let the hate wash away.

P.S. Extra-cheese pizza is always a preferred cheat meal.

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leanhybr Reply:
November 20th, 2009 at 2:51 am

MP – you’re correct I probably should not have “even wasted your time on this vain, narcissistic, condescending jerk.”

And you’re also correct… our program is NOT perfect.

I really wish to EMPOWER my clients and friends and teach how to
create dynamic program that can GROW with you instead of a single
regimen of sets and reps that are set in stone.

Thanks for everything boss!

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Though I am a frequent visitor to your emails & blogs, This is the first time I have ever felt compelled to respond. James, you are a very confused, self absorbed little pussy boy.
If you truly maintain single digit body fat, You would be in tears if you ever worked out in any gym with the quality of athletes of Mike & Elliot. You guys should invite him to come for a couple of workouts in your gym and by all means, video tape it!!

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leanhybr Reply:
November 20th, 2009 at 2:53 am

yea, that would be a great video — haha!

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I am with you Elliott, there are many kinds of body types, I doubt our friend could flip over many truck tires.
but who knows. By observation I have learned that there are many body types, not the ones that are clinical either. I notice different bone typed stature, width, short thick muscle, long muscles and other body differences like big hands verse small hands, thin boned and thick boned. All of these factor along with diet contribute to a persons genetic predisposition to how their body looks and responds to exercise. I have few cheat foods but enjoy three things, relaxing with a few glasses of white wine, hot dogs wrapped in a tortia and finally cinnamon graham crackers or ginger snaps.

Warmest regards, Dano – Chicago

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Well James should have shone a picture of his “greekness” I guess he didn’t want to get ridiculed for being toner. I think you (Elliot) made a hell of an improvement on your physique, so geek boy can screw off. Besides performance is what counts looks don’t matter when it comes to competition.

Favorite cheat Foods: BK triple whopper, dove unconditional chocolate icecream

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leanhybr Reply:
November 20th, 2009 at 2:53 am

Thanks for the compliment Jeff.

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I Just ask myself if this ” greek physique” looking guy have the same feat of stength than the old greek use to have … is he really strong ? does he have a a good conditionning (im not talking about slow boring cardio here) ? does he have a good grip strength ? core strenght ? and so on … I’m a martial arts instructor and I saw too much good looking guys with no ”real world fitness” and I saw so much guy’s who looks like nothing and who are strong as hell so … I think I made my point here…
DAVE

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leanhybr Reply:
November 20th, 2009 at 2:54 am

Preach on Dave!!

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James would not last one day in your strength camp. Elliot, just knowing that should be satisfaction enough.

On the subject of countries, hers the deal; without going into a complete dissertation on health and history it would seem that the USA is one of the most unhealthy counties out there and it does not need to be that way because we have unlimited access to unlimited info (unlike China who restricts their people’s use of the internet (yes I know China is in Asia, just using it as an example)). BUT the USA is still, without a doubt, the best country in the world. One piece of proof is that large numbers of people from all other countries are trying to move here and very very few Americans are trying to move out (especially to any country in Europe). Just about every country in Europe is poverty stricken and the people are malnourished and depressed. And there government is doing nothing about it because they could care less. I could go on but I won’t bother.

What gets me is why so many people are giving you and your partner crap. It is not like you are trying to sell us snake oil. People are talking smack because they want to prove their way is right and yours is wrong. Give it up.

Elliot and Mike; thanks for all the free info. I would buy your program but I am saving up for CHRISTmas presents. It is hard to buy for myself this time of year. Keep up the good work and don’t let ignorant hecklers bother you.

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leanhybr Reply:
November 20th, 2009 at 2:55 am

Mike,

You keep rocking our blog with awesome posts like this and I may
just buy you a copy of LHM for CHRISTmas

Thanks for your support buddy!

Shoot me an e mail on December 25th

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Michael M Reply:
November 21st, 2009 at 6:29 am

Hey thanks. You bet I will be following your blogs and videos (and commenting as well). And I will send you an e-CHRISTmas card on the 25th …

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Oscar Reply:
November 21st, 2009 at 12:53 pm

Just about every country in Europe is poverty stricken and the people are malnourished and depressed. And there government is doing nothing about it because they could care less. I could go on but I won’t bother.

Michael,

You couldn´t be more wrong, mate. Your American pride is blinding you.
I agree with you that USA is the best country and to be honest I believe
that here in Europe we are far behind

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Oscar Reply:
November 21st, 2009 at 2:16 pm

Just about every country in Europe is poverty stricken and the people are malnourished and depressed. And there government is doing nothing about it because they could care less. I could go on but I won’t bother.

Michael,

You couldn´t be more wrong, mate. Your American pride is blinding you.
I agree with you that USA is the best country and to be honest ,we are far behind the USA

You haven´t been in Europe, have you?

I invite you to come to Spain and I will show you how malnourished and depressed we are over here.

Please, keep being that proud about your country as I am of mine but don´t talk rubbish.

About James, I think that guy is mad and has got a very tipical english ego ( not everyone´s the same in England ) and as Elliot said everyone is training for different goals which in the case of this freak would be to have a beach body all year round.
The problem with this guy is that he doesn´t show respect. Maybe someone will show him what that word means.

Anyway, Eliott and Mike, I think you are one of the most realistic guys in the trenches that enjoy training as much as you do living.

Keep it up!
Oscar

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Ya, what a pompous fool ! It’s all about being healthy and any exercise makes you healthier, idiot!
“Pizza”

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My two cents worth is that it isn’t fair to make comparisons with others, because what works for me might not work for someone else. I was born with skinny genes, I’m barely brushing 170lbs, am 5ft, 8in. 49 years old and in excellent condition. I have been trying all my life to gain a little bulk, but I have contented myself with the fact that I have a great set of abs, and very ripped overall. Someone who gains weight easily has a whole different set of challenges, so it isn’t anything special in me why I don’t have the same problem. We all need to help each other and leave the egos out of it. I wish I were as strong as some of you big guys, but I think I’m making the best of what I have. (I’m Jamaican living in Jamaica by the way)

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leanhybr Reply:
November 20th, 2009 at 2:56 am

“We all need to help each other and leave the egos out of it.”

- well said.

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you hit the nail on the head. if he is truly single didgit BF all year long, he can’t possibly be nearly as strong as he might think he is. it is actually very unhealthy to stay in single didgit BF for extended periods of time. as for me, my favorite cheat meal is sirloin steak, baked potato with butter, sour cream and cheese, and a great merlot.

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Proud to be a chubby strong guy! At 44 and 225 my bench is over 400 and I’ve carried a 500lb yoke 100′. Low bf does little for me, I like feeling strong and able get engage life. And I love food! That guy sounds a bit obsessive and one dimesional to me. Hooray for hard work, good times, and a leading a life worth living! I think I need a cheeseburger or two…

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Thanks everyone for your feedback. However, I am not the James who wrote what Elliot read in the video. If you read my response closer you’ll see that the only thing “James” and myself have in common is our name and age. Hahahahaha

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I’m 100% with you Elliott, this coming from a slightly chubby albeit very strong 46 year old who not only loves a loaded burger every now and then but being up here in Maine, steamed lobsters and clams and a big bowl of butter to dip them in. My mouth is watering as I write. With these great foods comes some intense workouts. Love them both.

Jack

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leanhybr Reply:
November 20th, 2009 at 2:57 am

I LOVE Maine!

My mother-in-law lives there and I love to visit.

Maine-iack LOL

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well guys its this simple americans in the most part are all lazy and overweight…but to bash the men in your videos because they dont look like statues of Greek Gods is BS. unless you are naturally skinny and have a very high metabolisim or are a personal trainer and working out is your career than most americans dont have the time to spend that they do keeping a single didget body fat count… the fact that these men are setting goals and achieving them is spectacular in itself… now another thing you can be in the single didget range and be strong as an ox just look at Johnny Jackson he is a pro bodybuilder that has also competed in powerlifting and is said to be one of the strongest guys out there ( argueable of course ) but still it can be done..a future goal for someone..who knows but my favorite cheat food is Lazagna… the Cheesier the better… good day gentlemen and god bless america!

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leanhybr Reply:
November 20th, 2009 at 2:58 am

Johnny Jackson is an animal. Sick, sick dude!!

incredible strength for a bodybuilder for sure.

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I’m sure you are just fine and in great shape Elliott. This guy thinks muscle building is all about being “super” lean. This is unfortunately what bodybuilders too often do, is starve themselves, to get their fat down. To me bodybuilding isn’t about fat loss. Now, obviously you wouldn’t want to stand on stage with a big beer gut hanging out, but this shredded thing can get a little out of hand. I don’t think that ultra lean is really healthy either. Yes, we want “lean” with an aesthetic physique, but you can look too hard at this. Bodybuilding is about muscular development and health. Why should you have to stand on stage with a shriveled starved face to win a muscle building competition? I wish bodybuilding would get away from the “ultra-lean” stuff, especially with women, they need extra body fat. Some bodybuilders just don’t look as awesome in competition, they have starved away their hard earned muscle. There are degrees of lean, you don’t have to be 1% bodyfat to be considered lean.

Love greesy cheeseburgers. I like a little beer now and then. Clean foods to me are the ones that are natural without preservatives and other artificial junk, so a cheeseburger could be a clean food, if clean ingredients are used. Good wholesome stuff. If I’m going to eat butter, I prefer to eat the real thing.

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leanhybr Reply:
November 20th, 2009 at 2:59 am

Grass-Fed organic cheese burgers!

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Troy Reply:
November 20th, 2009 at 6:03 am

It’s cool you take the time to reply to messages.

Organic is the way to go, wish the whole world would grow food
organically. We would be working with nature instead of against it.

Do you supplement with MSM? (not advertising or anything, just passing on some info) It’s used a lot for joints and stuff, but it does more than that. It’s like one of those really important things that your body needs and to some degree gets overlooked, and you mostly hear “it’s for joints and pain,” you know, old arthritic man stuff. I take around 6 1/2 – 7 grams a day. I can tell you I feel stronger, and healthier. I just want everyone to know about it, so I mention it a fair amount. I drink like a teaspoon of powder in water, lime juice, and lite salt when I workout, and more more during taking my vitamins. I honestly sometimes feel like running when I take it. I can be done with a workout, and then be ready to run if I wanted to. And I am not one who is known for running. I’ve taken my fair share of supplements, so I can tell when something seems to be working. You know how creatine works and you know it’s working, it’s like that. If you aren’t taking it, then start. It’s cheap and your body probably needs more of it anyway. I would just like to hear some more results from it. It’s like one of those “wow” supplements that doesn’t get the attention it deserves. It might even be trimming some fat off me, but I need more time to confirm that. To your health!

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That guy is trying to bash a program that is obviously working for people. I like how your videos show average men and women, working hard to change their bodies..not just chiseled guys like on commercials selling crap. real people, real results. Though I haven’t purchased the program because of financial reasons, I do hope to see it really take off and succeed. Keep doing your thing Elliot and Mike and don’t let idiots get to you!

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My favorite cheat food is the lean flesh of 42 year old, single digit body fat, Euro-fag douche bags who think they are gods gift to the fitness world. Yum, Yum.

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What was he expecting, the fake before and after photos from supplement adds? My favorite part about the before and after photos from your program is that they were obviously real people who got great results. They don’t all look like Arnold now or anything, but that honesty is one of the main reasons I’m looking forward to trying your program.

I love cheat foods to, but my favorite has to be Tacos, or Mexican food in general for that matter. Nothing is better than big plate of Nachos and a cold beer while watching the (hockey) game.

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leanhybr Reply:
November 20th, 2009 at 3:00 am

Tony,

We just want to keep it REAL.

No fake photos here… ever!

Thanks boss!

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Hey Elliot, Don’t worry about that guy. I workout very hard 3-4 times a week, but still have a wife and 4 kids… Not everyone can stop their whole lives just to workout, like this guy. I’m very strong, although not in perfect shape, but I think these great people that take time out of thier lives to do something that over half of the population do, I think we should celebrate that!!!! And single digits body fat? Like a femal ballerina???? Yeah that’s attractive. If people workout hard every week, F—- it, go get a burger every once in a while.

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yea pizza is the shizzle man screw the euro nazi idiot! we cud all kick his skinny ass any day…respect to you brotha!

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Oh boy, I don’t think I can list my favorite cheat foods, as there would not be enough room to comment on
But yea, I am gonna take the lower route and say fuck you James you biased piece of shat.

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Hi Elliot and Mike,

Just wanted to add my two pennies. As mentioned above by fellow brit ferg And think it is wrong to judge a whole nation in such away. In order to maintain single digit body fat will leave you feeling weak and tired. How could this possibly be the peak of fitness? Fitness is about much more than just the way you look on the beach.

Personally I am more interested in getting fit and strong and building a powerful body (as I have just undergone a microdisectomy this is of great importance to me). This bloke seems to think he is the most important personal trainer on the planet but he is one amongst many thousands – so who cares what he thinks.

By the way favourite cheat food is beer – could not live without it, life is to short (if you ever get the chance try superbock or sagres both portuguese beers – my wife is portuguese by the way – not sure if these are well known in America) also love chip butties and a good curry.

Anyway keep up the great content – if i wanted mediocre i would hire a personal trainer just like him but i don’t so i choose to learn your system!!

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leanhybr Reply:
November 20th, 2009 at 3:01 am

Thanks Doug…

one of my favorite cheat foods is chicken livers.

didnt mention that in the video… haha!

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Hey Elliot, u are NOT anywhere close to being chubby or flabby or anything like that! This loser who emailed u is just that, a L.O.S.E.R! How dare he attack u and Americans…please, he can take his greek statuesque image and shove IT! Also, big muscles on guys is HOT…I bet this old man is week and scrawny…

Love ur cheats toO! We have to have cheats, like u mentioned…we need it, keeps us going!

Please keep doin what u have been doin and dont listen to the haters bc that is all they are!

Love ya,
Lauren

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leanhybr Reply:
November 20th, 2009 at 3:02 am

“big muscles on guys is HOT”

very good

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BBBBBBEEEEEEERRRRRRRR!!!!!!

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Elliott,
I agree with you 100%. Talking about Greek statues…Elliott, you and your friends look more like Greek statues than the single digit body fat folk (look at a statue of Hercules…he has love handles, small ones, but they are there). I grew up in Germany and travelled throughout Europe, Eurasia, North Africa, and the Middle East, so I’m not just pulling the previous statement out of my ass. You guys look strong and NATURAL and not an artificial fluffy pretty boy.
Second, beer was actually created in ancient Sumeria (modern day Iraq). It was given to slaves to provide them with plenty of protein and carbs, so they would be strong enough to work. However, the alcohol would passifie them, so they would not rebel. Hell, even the great Arnold would drink beer for weight gain.
Third, all of his off hand remarks about Americans…I’m sorry, but most of those European strongmen that lift stones, throw kegs, and pull eighteen wheelers do not look like they are at a single digit body fat; yet, they are strong as hell. Hmmm, riddle me that Batman.
Finally, my cheat foods: Carl’s Jr. Six Dollar Guacamole Burger or Jalapaneo Burger, Schnitzle, Chicken Fried Steak, Fried Chicken, and of course anything with Bacon ’cause Bacon makes everything better.
Keep up the good work and don’t let some fluffy poof get you down.

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That guy is full of himself. I should track him down myself. I’m not ashamed to say I’m a fat strong guy. I can also garantee not too many people will say it to my face. Guys like this have the nerve to look down thier nose at us all the while they are envious of our strength. I’ll never take “fitness” advice from someone who isn’t stronger or bigger than I am. I’ll never take diet advice from someone who has not weighed close to what I weigh. What would be the point in that. A 300+ lb man can’t survive very long on what a 150 lb man eats. It just won’t happen.

My point is this. If he didn’t like the training or results shown in the videos then click the red x at the top right corner and be on yourway. Don’t come on here and flame people you don’t even know from half way around the globe just because you think your “way” is better.

My favorite cheat meal is homemade baked buffalo chicken legs. More meat and less hassle.

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This guy is an idiot there is no way you can look like a greek god year around, especially if your trying to gain muscle or strength. His outlook of fitness is twisted, there is a difference between being week and chiseled, and having strong functional muscle.
Favorite cheat foods: cookies, candy, anything sweet

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if ya wanna get big and lean do body opus. you can eat all that crap, a lean body comes from calorie manipulation the workouts are secondary. I put on 10lbs in the past 5 weeks and dropped 4% body. It works the books by Dan duchain, check it out

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Elliot
Let James keep rambling, on his ass can probably hardly lift a truck tire.
Anyway, Cheat foods are pepperoni lovers pizza from Pizza Hut mozzarella sticks from arbys chocolate shakes cheeseburgers ice cream and chocolate syrup
I am also applying what I am learning from you and Mike into my weight training class at school and it gives you a very good feeling when you feel that burn deep in your muscles
KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK GUYS

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Hell. I can’t go a week without Hamburger Helper! Love the stuff. Also the first thing I do after a torrid squat session is grab a cold one! I mean what a douchebag! Probably won’t bang his chick unless he body fat tests her first!

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Life is about where you are going, not where you have been or where you are presently!!! as long as people are on the path and moving towards health (which also includes a balance to include soem of our vices) then props to them. Individuals who stand on their high horse usually have furhter to fall and a past they are trying to make up for. True passsionate individuals help those peope achieve their goal and foster positive energy, not negative crap like this guy.

Rock on man, love your stuff………… CHOCOLATE is my cheat food, hell yes. And oh, btw, for that guy, i maintain 200lb+ at 5′7″ with clear abs, a high 600lb squat but can still bump out soem runnign or sprtints or solid hour of cardio . oh and yeah, except maybe 12-16 weeks a year for comp prep, I drink beer too

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The writer of that particular email is clearly keeping himself at a high percentage of douchebaggery for 12 months out of the year.

I am Canadian… and we love our beer. I definitely fit into the chubby but VERY strong category. I am changing my body to be LESS chubby… but would never try and cut out cheat foods or get to single digit bodyfat levels. I am not a bodybuilder.

The fellow that wrote the email is probably one of the guys who goes to a bar, orders water, and proceeds to hold his glass of water in the fully flexed arm position with the hand fully supinated under his glass… aka douchebag.

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Why didn’t he attache a picture of himself or his “several clients”?
Send a picture or it never happened.

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This guy should have sent his pic in. Let’s see his stats. Put up or shut up.
If this guy would take a closer look at Greek statues most have very thick disproportionate torsos to the rest of their bodies. This is due to training(working) that is very similar to Strongman training. Most of these guys moved stones all day, in sandals or barefooted.
Oh, my favorite cheat food is Greek. Gyro’s baby!

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leanhybr Reply:
November 20th, 2009 at 3:04 am

great observation about the greek statues!

awesome, thanks.

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Who says you have to be “blessed” with a physique that is is Greek to be a trainer. I had a trainer who was born in Buenos Aires, a short guy who studied with the Weider Brothers. He did the wrestling circuit some and had a gym in BA, and then came to Israel where we trained dudes who might have passed for “Greek”, and just plain guys who came to get fit at a Community Center gym for thirty years. He didn’t strike me as having a six pack worth mentioning, but he knew his business. He had pics of Arnold, Bill Pearl, Labrada, the blasts from the past. I don’t recall anything “Greek” about their physiques.

After a few years in the fitness business he said it was a matter of everyone finding their niche to get fit. So you want a six pack that will wow the ladies, okay for you. You want to just be fit so you have to strength to handle your day to day, that fine as well.

There are so many variable to training, and so many different people with their personal goals that Mr. James forgets what a personal trainer is supposed to do–to suit the needs of his client. Yeah, even if it might mean if the client has to go more slowly to reach their goal.

That’s why you guys “went to school”. My trainer tells me I am not eighteen years old anymore, and keeps me on the same routine until I get down to “my weight”. Once I get there he will change it up so I can reach my goals. You do the same with each of your clients.

Ah, my trainer doesn’t have a “Greek” physique either. He might go by the book more strictly, but that’s his style. And, I am sure if you want a bod, he will get you there . . . as any good trainer will do.

The bottom line is that Mr. James likes to talk the talk, but . . . he walks crooked.

Food? I guess I am at the point in my life where I have figured out what works for me and what doesn’t. There is not such thing as cheating, and I am sure Mr. James eats stuff that would be considering “cheating”, but he is too vain to admit it.

Zev

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leanhybr Reply:
November 20th, 2009 at 3:04 am

keep up the great work Zev!

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here’s the euro version of ‘lean hybrid muscle’

http://estrip.org/elmwood/users/paul/images/0807/TerryAndMatthewEuroTrunks0805.jpg

preworkout = 1/2 pack cigarettes

post workout = the other half

keep kick’s ass elliott. you’re ARE making a difference in people’s lives. don’t ever forget that.

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I do not believe that the, Hahah Greek God works out at all. People that work out are pleasant to be around from all of the endorphins. This guy is a phony.
The world is already fill with too much conflict, I am here to learn… while I munch on my crust less pumpkin pie!

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Chiseled is for body-building. That’s not what we do here. Having a “beach body” is not the same as having a strong body. Is this “gentleman” breaking his own records every week? Is he pushing himself past his own strength limits regularly? Having regular cheat days keeps us from unhealthy binging psychologically. And constantly obsessing with having a “perfect” body tells me that he has some serious esteem issues and feels like he has to prove something to people all the time. Must be lonely being the only person who is so F***ing perfect all the time.

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James is what is wrong with the fitness industry. A so called trainer, not likely. He has never spent any time under a bar especially ones that serve beer. Douche bags like him are the reason I call myself a strength and conditioning coach as opposed to a ‘personal trainer’. Go get a bosu and a stability ball and some gloves with the fingers cut off and hit the aerobics studio, leave the iron to the men.
My weakness, anything Dairy Queen.

Keep up the great work
Spending time under the bar from Canada!

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Hi,
You called him a “Nazi”. Is he German? No matter… In my trips to Europe (including Germany, Sweden, Holland, Switzerland), there are a LOT of “cheat foods” in the regular diet. Rich cream, cheeses, sausages (knockwurst, bratwurst, and other “wursts’), salty cured and smoked meats, rich goulashes, stews, schnitzel (breaded fried veal or pork), noodles, pastries and more. ALL DELICIOUS! And Elliot, I know you’ve seen and competed against Strongmen from these countries… They have anything BUT “Greek God” type physiques!

I remember Arnold even mentioning drinking beer while working out in Austria when he was young. A bit dangerous!

Elliot, I admire your physique and strength! I’m not looking to get that big though. The GREAT thing about your program is that it MAKES SENSE! It will work whatever your goals are! I’m 46 and just had hip replacement surgery after years of suffering with osteo-arthritis. Recovering well by the way.

What I find most interesting about your program is the addition of the stongman type movements. Of course it’s nothing NEW but most people FORGOT about this kind of training. Many people didn’t realize they were actually DOING it every day! Laborers, stone masons, carpenters, roofers etc.
I ran a Car Wash for 10 years. Moving full 55 gal. drums on a handtruck, holding a polishing wheel while bending down to buff the bottom of a car, moving wheelbarrows heaped with sand etc. I’m sure we’ve all seen someone like a roofer put a load of shingles on one shoulder, balance, then climb a 20 ft. ladder to a roof (and he has to do it SEVERAL times a day) and say “How the HELL did he do that?!!”… He wasn’t motivated because he wants to improve his physique. He’s motivated by PUTTING FOOD ON THE TABLE! Many a traditional gym trained Bodybuilder (God forbid just with machines) would be “left in the dust” by these manual laborers!

Anyway getting to “Cheat Foods”… Of course the regulars: Burgers, Pizza and fast food. How about deep fried seafood? Clams, Oysters, Fish, Shrimp… Pasta dishes like Fettucinni Alfredo or Carbonara mmm!!! Sometimes though, just a couple (or 3) footlong chilicheese dogs with fried onions? I digress!!!

Shouldn’t we train for the physique or goals we personally WANT? If there is a better or faster way to get the results we seek, shouldn’t we try it? Whatever works for the individual, RIGHT?

I’m glad this fellow is so happy in Europe. He can stay there!

God Bless America!

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Hey guys,

First off, people like this James guy are the biggest reason I avoid gyms pretty much altogether. It’s not his bodytype (I have pretty low body fat myself, not single digit though), it’s his attitude. So I pretty much stick to working out in my garage, which over the years has become pretty well equiped.

But enough talk about sir James. I really want to talk about food. I’m a proud Canadian (I’m also quite proud to have many American friends and relatives)and as such a love a lot of Canadian food. Here are my top 3:

#1. Poutine – Fries with white cheese curds and a sort of gravy-like sauce. Next time you have a cheeseburger, try that on the side!

#2. Sugar Pie – It’s just what is sounds like. Basically, picture pecan pie without the pecans. It’s a French Canadian thing, and my French grandmother makes the best sugar pie there is. The good thing about this stuff is you really can’t eat very much of it – it’s just too sweet.

#3. Beer – Americans, Canadians, Europeans, we all love our beer. Nothing tastes better after an intense game of hockey (or any other sport really) than a cold beer. Goes pretty good with a burger too.

Now if I indulged in all of this stuff all the time, I’d be pretty overweight. Most of the time I eat properly, and my workouts are very intense, but hey, I enjoy food and there’s nothing wrong with indulging yourself every now and then. If I had to choose between single digit bodyfat and beer, I choose beer.

Take it easy guys,
Craig

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just like everybody in high school can’t hope to make varsity not everybody can hope to have the physique of a professional bodybuilder. not everybody is a powerlifter, bodybuilder, or an athlete. to assume that everybody wants to have 1 digit body fat and a super shredded body is ridiculous. the people featured in the video are to be admire for the changes they’ve made and all there hard. the before and after pictures are very impressive. in my opinion this guy is a conceded asswhole.

my favorite cheat foods are anything that looks good when I’m hungry. could be a philly cheese steak, hamburger, pizza, chicken wings, etc. i love all kinds of food.

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Hahahahaa! what a loser… sounds like an absolute wannabe. To all the REALLY STRONG and BIG guys who read this (and who most likely were born that way) I say congratulations, because we are the kind of people that have a fisique of a champion. We are strong by genetics, yeah, it is difficult for us to whipe out all of the fat that lies on top of our muscles, but I believe that firstly: it’s difficult, not impossible; and secondly: like you were saying, we want to keep strong, and maybe sometimes we have some extra pounds on, but at least we are happy. We enjoy our meals, we have a specificly planned diet, we are disciplined and… we get to eat a delicious cheesburger, pizza, drink beer.. you name it!!

I hope that instead of looking at this guy as an offense, or an insulting guy, I’d consider him as a sign that many people will be jealous or envy us, and he’s one of those. So I guess we should thank the dude for letting us know we are just human beigns that like having great bodys, a lot of strenght and who enjoy food.

PS: Elliot, I don’t know how you look these days, but I don’t think you’re chubby, sure, sometimes we have one cheat food to many jeje, but compared to a real chubby guy… Obviously we find those comments irritating but not everyone is blessed with amasing genetics or is so dedicated and disciplined like us.

Take care and never give up.

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elloitt, i also am a pt, this guy is not correct in maintaining single digit fat % all year round, all the research i have seen says that is not real good for the overall body. so, continue your cheat days, they make life a lot better, and the rest of the days train hard. most people fail in there weight maintenance by trying to be as perfect as this guy says he is.

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When I crave for something, I find it, eat it, and get it over with. Then move on to eating clean again until the next craving.

I love my cheat food, I’d go crazy without them.

Oreos, pizza, beer, patron, Dairy Queens all chocolate Blizzard, all of the stuff that’s unhealthy. I eat it when I crave it and never regret it. I stay strong, and can tell my body comp changes for the best when I do indulge in my cravings, but I still eating clean.

The haters will always be there. Their shouts of anger are nothing but confusion and frustration from not understanding why we do what we do.

Everyone needs to indulge once in a while, or we’d go completely insane!

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I’m with you! burger gooood!!!!! I don’t drink to much but when I do ” me likey ”
as far as the idiot who had to much of himself that day! well……….. hum! one day you’ll meet and oh buddy! my cheat foods are raw fish and poi but, I never deny the normals as well. ( pizza,hot dogs,pies,doughnuts etc. ) I know not very healthy! but, hey I’m not perfect. you guys are great! keep it up!

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I cheated my way to losing almost 50lbs this year and stepped out on stage in one of those tiny two piece posing suits, so I see nothing wrong with strategic cheating. I want to compete again in the summer. A program that can help me put on a little muscle and shed the fat with the proper diet without all that god awful treadmill-style cardio and potential muscle loss is definitely for me. I’m looking forward to the journey.

As to cheat foods…if I could cram in Chick-fil-A, Tex Mex, pizza, and homemade baked goods into one day, then I would be an incredibly happy person.

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Nobody will prevent me to eat my 28 chicken wings twice a month at my favorite restaurant (Cage aux Sports) while watching the Montreal Canadiens.

By the way, i am 10 % bodyfat, ripped, strong, bursting with energy and…an ISSA CFT.

I am sorry but i must say this, if i had in my team a Trainer with that kind of 2 dimension thinking, that says comments like that without knowing the person and without knowing where this person started, 30 % bodyfat, week, no energy, and know, to see this person on the video working like few would, demonstrating strength, energy, fitness, agility; then, i would insist that this Trainer go back and get really certified.

We do not need this kind of fraud in our gyms.

jotopforme.

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My favorite cheat food is PIZZA! and BEER! Id rather be a little chubby and strong then to give up my favorite foods.

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Well, first of all Elliot…I think you guys are doing a great thing expanding the ideas of fitness for those who really don’t have a handle on how to achieve their fitness goals…Kudos to you on that…however, being an example is very important and beng human and not perfect is also acceptable, however, One honest to goodness cheat day is most accepted by serious bodybuilders and athletes…but when you start giving yourself too many excuses and start making a cheat day into cheat DAYS….well…again…example, example…example…like when looking to open up a business or store…the most important thing is what…right….location….location…location….but…as far as calling the dude a Nazi right after telling us not to attack himl….again…example…example…example… Keep up the good work and try to control your emotions….it’s better for business…and by the way…my favourite cheat foods are almond M&Ms, dunkin donuts occasionally, and that’s about it…I rarely drink alcohol, or coffee, mostly green tea…I believe that you are what u eat to some degree….geen tea and veggies, and lean meats and poultry are great…but again…I’m not saying you need to be perfect….discipline is the key…and let’s face it….when teaching others…they look at you as well as up to you.

Chris

[Reply]

leanhybr Reply:
November 20th, 2009 at 3:10 am

Chris,

I agree… my calling him a Nazi was uncalled for. I do apologize
for that.

My emotions are pretty tame… except when I’ve forgotten my
manic pills (Joke)

Thanks for your support!!

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I would like to know more about this perfect trainer and his single digit body fat he and his clients have……. wat kind of meal plan does he have them and himself on?? hummmmm… just a guess but im saying a low low carb bodybuilder lean out diet (that is very very unhealthy to do all year round) in order to keep that single digit body fat????… do his clients feel strong? is everyday tasks easier on them? is there energy levels high?…………..
Well anyways Elliot, i agree with you 100percent bro! and my favorite fat cheat meals are meat topper pizzas! apple pies! chocolate milk with peanut butter cookies and the best is startch pancakes with ghetta and eggs with butter and jelly on toast! with of course a glass of chocolate milk!

Keep tearing it up brother! always looking forward to your new posts and vids,

Ray

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burritos and tacos!!!!!!

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Well, we don’t know what this James guy looks like…interesting he didn’t attach a picture or website with his training advice on it. Heck, he could be a naturally skinny guy with a crazy metabolism. Who knows…but yes, typical Americans are very obese. There is plenty of evidence of that; however, we also have the most fit people on the planet, go figure.

On the cheating aspect, yes, there is scientific evidence to support some strategic cheating…although alcohol is not on the list. http://www.cheatyourwaythin.com/ Joel Marion will tell you all about it.

I carb-cycle and like to eat a nice burger, pizza, with a Corona or two, so yes, it is all about moderation. You have to allow yourself to do this from time-to-time or you will not stay on a diet. Eat healthy most of the week, then have a cheat day, really, that is all there is to it.

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European standards? Would that be the part of Europe who’s butt we saved, or the part who’s butt we kicked?

REAL beer is my weakness. B vitamins and a little protein make it pretty easy to rationalize, too.

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I’ve alway tetered on the side of big and strong. I’ve got one sentence for this guy. Take Crisco, scoop with Tablespoon, eat and repeat!

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Who cares what the fake pretty boy thinks. Tell him to take his pretty muscle to the beach and walk around in his short shorts before he gets his face bashed in( Sorry just don’t have the patience for ignorant people). He brags about being a personal trainer that says it all. I would like to meet him in person but I forgot he is a “internet warrior”. I would like to see him flip a tire or lift a stone.

Ice cream cake!

Peace out.

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Hands down my favorite cheat food has to be mint chocolate chip ice cream.

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Pizza and beer, I’m very focused as a trainer in down under Australia, at 40yo i am stronger and faster than i have ever been and must have 2 cheat days a week for sanity. My kids ask me why i dont have a 6 pack, my reply is ” of course i do, it’s in the fridge”. I’m happy with by muscle strength and power and definition, and thats who i have to please. Train hard, eat well, and rest, it really is simple. Oh and Elliott, go tell this knuckle head to go blow a goat !!!

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hate hate hate do your thin Elliot.. my cheat food ice cream , cake (tres leches)

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Hey Elliot,

This James guy is a total asshat and I agree with a lot of your points but you’re so wrong on one important matter. Beer. American beer, well mainstream American beer anyway, it sucks. Budweiser is about as bad as it gets.

Now in fairness most European beers suck too but in a continent as diverse as Europe with such a variety of beers it’s natural that many of them will produce better than America has.

When it comes to Beer, The Czech Republic is where it’s at. Budvar (the original Bud) is the Daddy of beers.

But apart from that minor slip up, keep up the good work. You’ve helped me a lot now I’d like to help you by encouraging you to sample some fine European beers!

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Hey Im with u Elliot, Bro my cheat foods are also cheese burgers and no Im not a single digit body fat type lifter but Im pretty strong and Im very proud of my body, so is my wife lol. but I do have a very strict high protien diet because it works good for me. I dont like the fact that there are people who think their way is the only way, but on the other hand who cares, oh, and mr. personal trainer single digit body fat, plz bring yur skinny ass over to my gym and make those comments! l8r Brothers, go heavy or go the hell home lol

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I Love Wings Fries and BEER these are the best. I am 53 and water ski I run the slalom course at 15 off with ease. You need explosive strength for 6 small bouys and then again and again for 5 or 6 sets. Thats what tis type of training does for me. The outside is still a little soft looking but the inside brick wall James

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I agree with you Elliott – if not for anything cheat meals keep you sane! I can’t gain any decent muscle without dieting hard for a few days, then having a nasty cheat meal – it floods your body with carbs and fat for the next few days of dieting.

My ultimate cheat meal? Warm chocolate chip cookies (homemade) with a nice thick layer of peanut butter on them. MMmmm!

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Sorry, but Belgian beer rules!!! America wins with the cheeseburgers:)

Anyway, I’m European, we’re not nazis btw^^, and by my EUROPEAN STANDARDS you guys are awesome! They haven’t even invented wharehousegyms in Europe yet. So I’m kinda making one in the attik at home. The training methods are great and if you can’t grasp this; you either haven’t done it yet or you’re plain retarded. Jezus fucking christ.

Elliot and Mike, don’t let this get to you, this guy is not THE VOICE OF EUROPE. Keep ‘em coming.

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leanhybr Reply:
November 20th, 2009 at 3:08 am

Jenova,

I bet you’re right about the Belgian beers!

I apologize for my Nazi comment… that was uncalled for.

Thanks for your support!!

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James is obviously a DOUCH BAG !! with TOO much self-indulgent mirror time on his hands .

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hey there Elliott!! awesome video! totally agree with you on this one pal. It got me thinking though…. Did this James guy subscribe to the LHM Program? he must of done right? so i guess you did something right to convince him to invest….. so i guess the joke is on him!

I’m from London England and my cheat foods are a little different. my favorite cheat food is a truly massive steak dinner… a huge juicy steak with absolutely everything to go with it. loads of potatoes, sweet corn, carrots, broccoli, mushrooms, tomato, green beans and cauliflower – and i have it all dripping in butter and béarnaise sauce!!! And i wash it all down with a couple pints of Guinness Beer (which are 150 cals each!). pancakes and maple syrup for dessert…… ah… you gotta love the Western world.

I should also add that the day after a cheat day is when i have the most energy. I play high level rugby and the only way to keep up with the pace and power is by gorging on what you like best the day before.

keep up the good work guys, i’m loving the program!!!

matt

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HOOTERS …..

and oh ye i apologize

smack that dumb ass email writer

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americans can be just as fit as europeans , thats just a stupid stereotype!

i have gained about 30lbs within the past year and still am close to single digit body fat percentage, i work out 6 days a week targeting each muscle group 2 times.

as for cheat foods, I HATE THEM.
i eat super clean 24/7, 365 days a year
i just don’t get satisfaction out of eating s***, knowing i am doing myself a terrible disservice
i enjoy most people’s clean foods just as much as they enjoy cheat foods
for example, a bowl of old fashioned oats with whey protein and skim milk is heaven on earth to me!

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Well, let me begin by saying “that guy must be an”IDIOT”, I remember meeting a bodybuilder named Shawn Ray and asking him how he keeps his body so thin, answer was one cheat day a week keeps him sane. That guy had a greek physique and I realize it probably wasn’t all that helped.especially nowadays.But to say he has kept his bosy like that all year. Good luck throwing up after every meal.
Your methodology about cheat day is correct. Without a bit of a pat on the back after staying on a diet for a while is a good thing. As long as you don’t overdo it and undo what you have tried hard to achieve.
With the comparison to European people and their bodies. Wow how insecure are we really.Over ther they can smoke dope, get access to steroids easily, and then do it all over again the next day.

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G’Day Elliot,

All the Yank bashing aside (Jeez you blokes are thin skinned…haha)

How about a Steak sanga with beer – Never mind the mince get a real slab of beef in there – Texican style in two thick pieces of homebaked bread. (remember the Dagwood)

Some US beer is ok (Bud, Adams – keep practicing – you’ll get there…) prefer German, Belgium, Aussie and even Kiwi beers.

I’m 51 and much like the older blokes at your strength camp. Were’all not in bad nick compared to you young flappy slobs! Old Bastards Rule!!!

Matt

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what a cocky prick. hes probably 140 pounds with the metabolism of a god. but hey, if being anorexic keeps you in the single digit body fat percentages then whatever. my favorite cheat foods are definitely some good fried chicken or some nice bacon pizza.

-Dan

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that guy so on called the perfect man is an IDIOT..men must hav muscles and be in condition to lift weights and fight and must not be lik a girl havin slim arms and legs and that guy is proud of makin men girls………….

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My favorite cheat food is steak Anion rings and chips…. Before meals 2 Big ass beers red Wyn dooring meals and jagermeister after meals….

If dad was dirt tolk hill be crying to is mom

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Favorite cheat foods: ice cream, beer and red wine.

BTW Mike and Elliot, I like your style, both of you, and I think you have a lot to offer. I only wish I could train personally at your gym.

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HAHAHA Nazi. Nice.

But I digress. Although maintaining a greek god physique isn’t that easy (even though that is what your programme started out promising,, what with vikings and spartans and roman gladiators) I gotta say…this guy is right. Americans are fat and embrace mediocrity. Come on, you’re known as the obese nation. While what a lot of what these people achieved is great, it still doesn’t put them at an awesome place by the end of their journey…and yes, ammie beer is mediocre.

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i am with u sometimes i like to cheat drink a beer or so who dont , that guy is a idiot

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Ok, this guy may have been able to find a better way to say what he did, but he does have several points that I agree with. I’m American, and I must say that in general our country’s fitness levels are mediocre to downright horrible, because most people just don’t care. I also agree (to some extent) about his assessment of the testimonials. Don’t get me wrong, the guys made great changes. I know that takes hard work and they should be proud of the progress they’ve made. But I cannot honestly say that I was inspired by their after photos either. I also noticed that a lot of comments are making a lot of negative assumptions about James without any knowledge about him. Just because someone has single digit body fat does not mean he’s weak and doesn’t know what he’s doing in the gym. The last time my bodyfat was tested, it was 3.3% (tested in a Bod Pod). I am 5′7″ and weigh 170. My last workout I did full squats with 325 for 3 sets of 5, I’ve deadlifted 405 for 5 reps, and I got 10 reps with 225 on the bench press. Definitely not setting any records, but I wouldn’t classify that as weak either. And I’m definitely not promoting bodyfat levels that low, I’m just saying, don’t judge someone’s whole mindset, level of training knowledge, and strength based on his bodyfat, as they could be totally unrelated. In my case, I think I may just have “skinny genes”. I don’t really watch what I eat, I just try to eat fairly healthy. Whereas most people struggle to lose weight, I have the opposite problem: I have to constantly eat to the point of being uncomfortable if I want to put on weight. As far as a cheat day, I don’t think it’s a bad idea. I like to load up on desserts over the weekend.

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What a jerk!!!

If he was such an expert, he would KNOW that not every body has statue perfect features or potential to reach it. Some people are shorter with very broad frames and some are tall and sinewy and will NEVER look as muscular and well proportioned since most sinewy people have longer limbs …

He may actually see you guys as over-weight, but he misses the very important fact that NOBODY IS BUILT EXACTLY THE SAME!!! Good grief … I think by ANY standard you guys look fantastic, you wouldn’t be hosting a site like this and offering these programs if THEY DID NOT ACTUALLY WORK.

I guess if he had to compare me with supermodels I’d be fat (never mind over-weight) even though I’m 1.76m and 65kg’s … I’m slowly working on getting my weight down to 60kg’s and find the information you guys provide extremely helpful.

I just love sweet things and seafood and red wine (and tequila occasionally) … so every now and then I’d have mussels and rich cream cheese on crackers with some herbs and black pepper, or garlic snails smothered in cheese … or prawns … hehehe.

These are not healthy, I know that. It only happens once in about 6 or 7 months though. Red wine and dark chocolate though are two of the things I like to indulge in that doesn’t do too much damage but I’d still only have them once in about a month or two.

And then … STRONG COFFEE … oh boy!

Guess we all have our little obstacles hey …

GREAT JOB GUYS!!! Keep it up … you motivate the rest of us that haven’t got supermodel or statue perfect features. MWHA

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Great stuff… Have been using the “cheat” method (not that I like to call it that) for a while. Basically, I will eat healthy for 3-4 days and then decide to load up on some bad stuff but remember to keep the quantity in check so as to not overeat.
I have come to the realization that it is best not to take fitness too seriously.
I mean, why worry about not being in the perfect shape and not taking time out to go to the beach to sun bake (relax) when you are too busy slugging it out in the gym 5-6 days per week. Heck! Life is for enjoying.
Besides that, the benefits of working out and dieting are only rewarded after quality rest/recovery.
Depending on the individual, some people train for physique and others for strength. Also, some people find it hard to lose weight and others find it hard to gain weight.
I prefer functional strength over physique (which still looks better than your average couch potato).
I dropped 5% body fat on a short holiday (yay for me) while not working out and dieting at all. However, I was always doing a lot of walking.
My cheat foods always vary… it depends on where I am when I have the urge and can sometimes end up something as bad as a pastrie, cream bun and flavored milk…. best way to get a good dose of calories!
Am not really into alcoholic beverages but I have found that hitting the gym on a morning after a big night on the turps gives good workout results… only if I am not too hungover
Best to confine alcohol intake to the weekends accompanied with a good pub meal!

- C from oz

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Hey Elliott,
I completely agree with you, this guy is an idiot! I don’t think you guys are chubby oder fat, because I saw your videos on the internet, which are impressing! I’m from Europe, Germany, and I honestly have to say that most (ca. 50%) people are overweight, chubby oder fat, not strong or Greek statues. I don’t know on which planet James lives. I do know that many people try to work out and get leaner, but most of them are on the wrong way, because of following programs designed for bodybuilding magazins or doing tons of cardio with 7 cheat days per week, while wondering why they don’t lose any pound.
Anyway, my favorite cheat foods are choclate and selfmade pie. I don’t have a cheat day, but 2 to 3 cheat meals per week, normaly over the weekend.

Keep on going guys!

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Okay, I’ve seen the video, and it seems like this guy, James, just wants to pat himself on the back for his accomplishments. This seemingly condescending email was an attempt to put you down for what he, obviously, can’t offer his own clients. It’s just professional jealousy, plain and simple.

As for cheat foods…cheeseburgers, french fries, and Pepsi Max are mine.

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beer was first invented in egypt c. 5,000 yrs ago as far as is known.

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I work for Friendly’s Ice Cream. My favorite is ice cream!

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PIZZA and BEER!!!!!! I’m a man of few words. First off I would kill to have a build like you have. Second, if he don’t like it here, get the fuck out.

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G’Day Elliot,

I think this could be stereotypical, but there is nothing better than an ice cold beer. I am Aussie, i love to cheat on a friday or a weekend after a workout, fishing or surfing. I am one of those skinny necked bastards that you love to stir up, i think i am pound for pound strong and my body fat is ‘low’. This guy is just another ignorant “trainer” who doesn’t see that fitness, health and well being doesn’t revolve around looking good in front of the mirror; he probably looks at Dave T and says he is flabby or Usain Bolt and says he is puny – that doesn’t mean they aren’t amazing athletes just because they don’t have “Greek Physiques” according to James. What you and mike are achieving and promoting is a worthy system and it will achieve results for years to come.

All the best,
Phil
Yamba Australia

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Who the hell does this guy think he is?! Just put himself up on the pedistal, nobody should ever put themselves on the pedestal. Im from a very small village in Alaska and it is very expensive to diet properly, so I pretty much eat “cheat foods” everyday. I know that its gonna catch up to me eventually, but for now I am still one of the lean, stronger and fastest guys in the town. When the seasons right we subsist off the land so that means fresh meat, fish, berries and vegetables. During the long frozen winter though its just anything to microwave. I say keep doing what your doing just as long as your pushing it out every workout.

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Hi Elliot,

I just watched the video and read the E-mail from James. Wel, to me it sounds like a huge lack of respect to dare sending such a mail to someone who dedicates his life helping people getting in shape, better health an to get a better life. Even not knowing you.
I just bought you great E-book last week and started Hybrid Training and man those farmer’s walk are killer but I love them !
I also am European, living in Belgium. I am also a personal trainer when I am not working as Command Sergeant Major for the Belgian Army. All my clients train hard, briefly and infrequently, and all have results like yours because they are encourraged to work hard like trainees under your guidance. I also give them advice about nutrition and I do advice them to cheat from time to time, like I do )
Avoiding cheating on the food all the time is very bad for the psychological side of the human being and will bring milion more harm than an innocent cheese burger.
I know those kind of personal trainer like James, I have seen quite some, and in my opinion and from my experience, clients following such a narrow minded coach end discourraged and worse quit training.
Training and food MUST be fun (I think). By the way, I have American friends and they are all great guys, like you are Elliot.
And hmmm what I like most when I cheat on food ? Chocolate the dark one. French fries with a nice hamburger or meat balls in tomato sauce. I Like pizza too. Oh man I’m getting hungry now.
And of course, I like it when the Colonel tells me: “Sargeant Major, If you continue getting broader and bigger we will have to get doorways larger”

Wishing you all the best,

Kind regards,

Stéphane

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Hi there, I came from Canada, quebec (French-Canadian in fact) I will begin with saying that probably there will be some mistake so I apologize rigth away. First, I think that both James and Elliot have a point. It’s true that some people will accept mediocrity as a standard of living and it’s true that in America (Canada too) people tend to overweigth. BUT, for the fitness, I think James miss a point: it’s not everybody that WANT a Greek statue template. For myself, I want to have 200 lbs with 10% body fat. I dont want to be a strong man, I want to be in a good shape. If my goal are not to have a greek statue template, that’s fine and I dont think it’s mediocrity because, like I said, it’s what you want that is more important. So, if James consider that a goal, that’s fine for me, but it’s not for everyone. It’s the same thing for money, religion, work, relationship, positive mental attitude, everything in life is different for everyone and everybody should be respectful of the individual goals. For my personnal cheat food, 2 things: Grampa burger from A&W and Poutine . Have an happy live

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I think James should post a picture of himself with his single digit body fat. I think we all break our diets or eating correctly once or twice a week. I’m 61 and just started getting back into wieght lifting from a long time of over eating
I’ve lost a lot of fat and i’m still working on losing more. I was 225 now I’m down to 200/205. your workout is helping alot.

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Hey man!
I think you’re attacking a great mission-helping people build muscle while burning fat! Awesome! My wife (Michelle) and I have been have been engaged in a similar mission since 2005 through http://www.buffmother.com.
Unfortunately, this business invites a ton of criticism from people with nothing better to do. My advice, don’t “chase the snake that just bit you”.
You are much too talented to waste you’re time on critics. Pour your energy into positive people and it will return X 100!
Travis
P.S. I’m sure you already knew all that but guys like james can sometimes make us forget…

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leanhybr Reply:
November 20th, 2009 at 7:41 pm

Travis,

Me like buffmother.com! Great hook, all the best
to your wife and her business!!

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Hey man!
I think you’re attacking a great mission-helping people build muscle while burning fat! Awesome! My wife (Michelle) and I have been have been engaged in a similar mission since 2005 through http://www.buffmother.com.
Unfortunately, this business invites a ton of criticism from people with nothing better to do. My advice, don’t “chase the snake that just bit you”.
You are much too talented to waste you’re time on critics. Pour your energy into positive people and it will return X 100!
Oh yeah, We like burgers and beer too!
Travis
P.S. I’m sure you already knew all that but guys like james can sometimes make us forget…

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I know you asked us not to critize this gentlemen but I’m fed up of dick heads critizing others for what’s really there own insecurity. I must confess I do prefer the weak lean body type but I think we all need encouragement until we attain our own view of what we beleive is the perfect body. Keep up the good work.

My favourite cheat food is cottage cheese with pineapple. Not much of a cheap but it satisfies my sweet tooth.

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hey elliott,
i think this guy is asking for an ass whippin. seriously, how can he have a go at you and your team when he let himself get 50lb overweight? this wimp sounds like he’s jelous of you and your teams physique. he sounds like the guy that was a couch potato for 30 years with a pin dick and no friends. then he finally decided to get off his ass. now he spends all his time lifting weights and living on hope that he will make friends and get the girls. he lost weight eventually and now his depression and anxiety have stolen his ability to eat healthy, store energy and have strength and size. the result is a wimp talking shit to try and make himself feel good. WHERE IS HE… LETS SHOW THIS TOUGH GUY HOW TOUGH WE ARE! COME ON… RRAAAGHHH!!! LETS GET THIS FAGGOT!!!

P.S. my favourite cheat foods are. KFC, chocolate, pizza, burgers, meat pies, and of course alcohol.

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Elliott:

I couldn’t agree with you more… and I identify with your tact for dealing with this “cockalorum”. Besides being an American, I am also a veteran (his comment tightened my jaws ) and was proud to serve alongside my “chubby” military buddies and protect our ‘fatties’ at home.

Enough rant! As re: the “cheat meal” … I don’t know if its exactly that, but I like a large salmon salad with macaroni and onions (Mayonaisse is the cheat part?) for my post workout carb/protein infusion.

Elsewise – keep on keeping on! I think the world of you and Mike and what you are contributing to the effort.

Best Regards,
Ken P
_____________________________________-

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Hey Elliott

You may not like the sound of this but my favorite is a Blue Cheese burger from a local restaurant, oh yeah and I love my beer too. People need to have their comfort zones and just because we’re working out, doesnt mean that we have to get rid of everything in our lives. I’m 39 and look forward to getting back in good shape as I have been a decent athlete my whole life but there are times I will enjoy myself. So buddy in the emal get get a grip, You guys are doing a great job so keep it up. He seem like one of those people who just needs to bitch

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Hey Elliot,

I am not sure I understand what this guys problem is.
Is he upset that you use people in your before and after pictures that is not going from flabby to extremly cut? (like the ones on the tv-infomercials)
Does this guy just have a problem with americans in general or does he have issues with his overweight past?
In either case he has totally missed the point.
We all have different reasons and goals with our workouts.
Me personally has always adapted my workouts to make me a better football player. I have never been interessted in keeping my bodyfat in single digits. (not that there is anything wrong with that, I just dont belive it makes me a better football player)
Anyways, what I wanted to say is that from what I understand the object of this program is not to keep your bodyfat in single digits. I know you as a strongman probably aren´t perticularly interessted in keeping your bodyfat under 10%. And Mike as a powerlifter either for that matter.
I mean you could have that as a goal if you want, but correct me if I am wrong, the program is designed to get stronger while loosing fat.

The before and after pictures are there to show results, results of normal people doing the workouts Mike and Elliot are trying to sell. And when I say results I mean loosing fat while getting stronger.
If you are looking to loose fat while getting stronger you should try this program, if not I am sure there are plenty of other workouts out there for you.
Or perhaps get the latest abtronic product, the people in their before/after sure look good…

As for cheat-food I do get cravings for beer…and with that potatochips…mmmm

And Elliot don’t focus so much on this guys comments on americans. The issue here is if the program works or not and if you ask me i think the before and after pictures show one thing, RESULTS.

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Elliott, dont worry about people like this..they are jealous and most likely are either 1.) fat and lying behind a computer screen, 2.) skinny BUT WEAK, or 3.) strong but not as strong as you or others and again is using the computer screen to hide behind…He sounds like a typical fitness club trainer, if he is a trainer at all to begin with…He might want to spend more time trying to attain his goals and those of his “clients” instead of worrying about something someone else has to say on the internet.

Regardless, here are my favorite cheat foods:

1.) Hotdogs
2.) Pizza
3.) Any Italian pasta dish
4.) Pizza
5.) BEER!

There are many more but those are always my faves. Keep up the great work man.

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Hey Elliot! Basically what i gathered from his e mail albeit his opinion,is that he like many of us all have DIFERENT GOALS as far as strength and the appearance of our ideal phyisique (he mentioned something about greek gods! LOL) my goal is to get big like Arnold was in the 80’s!! Without the roids!With that in mind simply realize his goals differ from yours or mine….He did mention something that strikes what i have been thinking about lately as far as Americans being out of shape now-a-days. My theory (one of many LOL) is that the food we consume these days, if buying it from a mainstream food corporation (which are the predominate choice at the supermarket) is that there are sooo many additives and other unhealthy ingredients in them that were not most likely widely consumed generations ago. This is why i feel that Americans are very high, if not the highest country as far as obesity rates go…a solution to this is to simply cook home made meals without the additives,and workout! As far as my fav on the cheat food list is cheeseburgers also! im gonna go have one right now as a matter of fact…Have a great day,dont let that dude piss you off too much!!

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Elliot,
I’m 57 and have always lifted and ran. I am in good shape and believe we should all take care of our bodies. I feel that to each his own, but don’t believe anyone should put another down because he doesn’t believe in the same training methods or diets. I think this guy has overstepped his bounds. I like your training methods and feel they have helped me. I too, like to cheat once in a while as it helps relieve those “bad” craviings. I would like to see more people doing more exercising as we as a nation have become soft, but we don’t have to be skeletons to be in shape.
Thanks for all you do!
Vince

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You and the “James” just obviously have starkly different goals. I think you’re doing a fantastic job with yours.

As for my favorite cheat foods? Chocolate Truffles, Mikes Hard Lemonade, and Loaded pizza. Mmmmmm.

Great video!
Sunny

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Hey Elliott

That James guy is just one of those guys that likes to think what he does is the best and everything else is worth shit. He probably saw your stuff and thought it was great, but he has to give a negative comment on it just to make him feel good. Like we says up here, he is “un estie de tête dur”.

As for cheat foods I like Beer, but not just any beer, A strong Canadian beer, we have some that are 11% alc. And the best food is a good Poutine.

You guys are great keep up the awsome work.

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Ioan Reply:
November 20th, 2009 at 10:11 pm

Hey hey, I think we came from the same region, you came from quebec rigth? )

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justin Reply:
November 23rd, 2009 at 12:56 pm

No not exactly, right now I live in east ontario, but my family is mainly from quebec.

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America is the best country in the world. And I am not even American, I am an Indian. That said, my favorite cheat food is pizza, cheese burgers, and KFC. I am not going to buy your course for at least six months or so. This is because I am trying the basic body building techniques to increase my mass. I will hopefully buy it in the future as I am looking to increase my stamina and build strength.

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i knw you said not to hate on that guy but damn he’s very ignorant in a sense that there are so many other ways to workout, chubby or not, that does not mean you are not knowledgable of fitness, and double big macs and triple whoppers are amazing but once a month =)

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i knw you said not to hate on that guy but damn he’s very ignorant in a sense that there are so many other ways to workout, chubby or not, that does not mean you are not knowledgable of fitness, and double big macs and triple whoppers are amazing but once a month =)

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Elliott and Mike,

Guys like this is why you need to continue to do what you do. He is an asshole to say the least and is trying to get his fifteen minutes of fame at your cost. Screw him and keep bringing us who want to learn more and change people’s lives the information we desire…. Oh, my favorite cheat foods are definitely cheeseburgers, pizza, non-low carb pasta, Reese’s peanut butter cups etc. I try to only have one cheat day and eat as strict as possible 6 days per week.

Lift hard or go the f**k home…….. James or whatever your freakin name was….

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Hey guys,
I totally with you. If you can’t take a few cheat days and eat what you love, then how the heck are you supposed to stick with your diet. Also, I am not all that interested in keeping 4% body fat and looking like a Greek god, 10-12% is fine with me so long as I have some muscle underneath. I want to be strong and able to out perform the other guys on the field. The strength and endurance is what matters, not the vanity of the 6-pack (which I have anyway). As far as my cheat foods go, I’m all German with the bread, cheese, meat, and beer. I have to stand by the burger as well.

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Hi my name is Rob, I too am european and I too am a personal trainer however too subscribe to Hybrid muscle training and I like what these boys have to say. I must admit I have my fare share of vices also. I very much like cheese burgers and I very much like beer. More recently I have been enjoying Red Wine. I teach 18 group fitness classes a week, all of which I’m fully participating in. At times when I’m motivated I perform strentgh training and can deadlift in excess of 300 – 350 lbs but can also run a 10k in 40 min and do a sprint triathlon on a sunday after a week of work. So what do I do after that, I do the things I enjoy and eat the foods I like, not all the time, although I could probably consume more calories and be ok. I want more strength and a bit more size and still blitz 18 classes a week plus PT. This is why I want some new ideas from the Hybrid boys. Lifes for living and we should enjoy what we like and when necessary we can prioritise treats versus results for the sake of goals. We’re here for a short time so lets make an impact but for whoever’s sake can we not enjoy ourselves a little along the way.
Keep up the good work Boys

From The Scottish Highlander in the Scottish Borders

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hey guys… Love the comment by john Walker: “opinions are like assholes, everyone’s got one” that cracked me up. Anyway, my grandparents lived through the depression, and food was scarce and they ate bread and dripping often… Now for those of you who don’t know, that’s basically the left over fat from cooking meat spread on bread. YUCK! But if it’s all you got… Guess what? My Grandpa is 93 and still kicking. Still mentally alert… He worked damned hard all his life and his body was lean and he had wiry real world strength. We are so afraid of food these days, but it’s bullcrap! when you work hard, live in a cold environment or workout really hard; your body not only needs fats, sugars and salt, but it also burns them and you don’t get fat or sick.So that wanker can piss off!! I love beer in moderation! Pizza is awesome, and my wifes lasagne.

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John Walker Reply:
November 22nd, 2009 at 10:49 pm

Michael
Glad that I was able to cheer you up and I’ve eaten my fair share of
bread and dripping and it aint too bad especially with plenty of salt.
You’re right on the money when you state people are afraid of food
these days, there is so much bullshit written about the supposed
danger of one kind of food or another it’s just gotten totally out of
hand, when you’re in hard training your body needs all kinds of food
and lots of it, there is no reason to deprive yourself of anything that
you like, all things in moderation is what makes life worth living, life’s
just to short to not experience the pleasures of great food and excellent
Beer! my personal favourite is Stella but Becks is also another fine Beer.
It seems to me that your Grandfather could teach us all a thing or two
about living! you ought to get together with him and write down what
he has to say, you’ll probably have enough good information to write
your own nutrition course and if you do let me know and I’ll be your
first customer, thanks mate.
Warmest Regards
John Walker.

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Nige Reply:
November 26th, 2009 at 9:46 am

Want to clear up a saying I’ve seen here that’s just missing the final part: as it is also one of my all time favourite phrases and something I remind myself if I make when I make excuses for not exercising etc.
It’s “excuses are like assholes, everyone’s got one and they all stink”. You just gotta have that last part!
James is what us Australians would call a wanker. And yes, we do like our beer and Tasmanian beer rates with the best of them!

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First off as a CFT he should not be putting anyone down trying to better themselves in health and fitness. He should support people to try new and innovative workouts and techniques. Anything to improve any aspect of your life is a step in the right direction.

Eat right,train hard,cheat here and there. Oh and i love a big plate of chinese food once or twice a week. So he can kiss my a**.

Good luck with your goals everyone.

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I’m Aussie, and to put it simply; I love beer… Stella Artois from Belgium, Corona from Mexico, Speights from New Zealand, and the Tahitian beer which I can’t name right now. And locally, there’s an awesome brewery/pub at Port Adelaide that makes it’s own stouts and ales that are just superb. Obviously, if you overindulge in beer and chocolate and burgers; you’ll be HUGE and sick. But now and then as a cheat food is great. many body builders have a cheat day and are super cut. Look at Skip La Cour in “Mass Attack” magazine 2004. Freaky ripped, and he says in the article that he has a cheat day on weekends; when with friends. It’s also about life balance. Its a mental break from the regimented disciplined eating necessary for being strong and lean.

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Gday Elliot and all,

I am not one to usually post on blogs but I sincerely could not believe the self indulgant crap that was oozing from this bloke’s cake hole (no pun intended!lol!). My blood began to boil just as yours did! If single digit body fat is your claim to fame then so be it mate kudos to you! And the fact that you are a PT as well must add multitudes of cred to your claims. I am sorry though I missed the name of your website? I also missed your list of clients who are willing to come forward and back your claims, oh and I also missed basically the whole point you were trying to make apart from an indignant stab at Elliot and his hardworking clients. It is far easier to armchair critic someone and if that is your usual attitude toward life then I am positively sure that several clients is probably the max number of people who are willing to stand in your presence at all!

A mile to walk for someone maybe a marathon for someone else. The positive effect of self transformation on any one person is simply too massive to measure to try to trivialise this is just a refelction on your own attitudes and self beliefs.

Keep up the great work Elliot and Mike its a ripple effect mate the lives you are changing also change the world around them for the better as well.

By the way I don’t know if you guys have them in the states but I can’t go past red frogs as a cheat food (the big ones not the small ones!). And massive tacos!!!!

Guy.

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leanhybr Reply:
November 21st, 2009 at 3:53 am

You guys are all FREAKIN awesome! Love seeing everybody rally together. We try to encourage you, so thanks for returning the favor! MIKE

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What’s he trying to prove? Really? I can go around telling people I’m a personal trainer, and I am, but that doesn’t mean a thing. All it means when you tell people that is “hey I think I’m pretty darn good, listen to me!” And people see through that charade so quickly. I’m in Australia. I don’t think the baseline standard of education for personal trainers is very good here. But he obviously put in a lot of good work if he managed to lose a lot of weight, and that’s great, and he should be pleased. He also should recognize the capacity in others to train hard and respect that. It’s admirable to try to help others. Also, your own fitness has nothing, nothing at all to do with someone else’s fitness, being able to lift more weight than someone else, or run faster, or whatever does not mean you’re going to experience less illness than them. You should measure yourself by your own standards, not someone else’s.

I have a lot of fiber and vegetables and good foods in my diet, but I eat too many baked goods and drink too much coffee, I don’t get as much protein as maybe I should be eating, and I’m neither under nor overweight. I don’t have rippling six pack abs, but I am pretty darn healthy, and I’m sorry, single digit body fat percentage sure as heck does NOT mean you’re automatically healthy. There are actually health benefits to having fat on your body. Lots of them. The capacity to gain and lose weight is a sign of a correctly functioning metabolism. That’s how it works. It’s what humans do.

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Im from Norway so that makes me a european as well. from my view you are not chubby and many of those u have used your program is fit as well so i wouldnt even care about this dude.

A burger once in a while taste very good

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I’m with you Elliott, cheating is good and I beleive necessary to remain strong. There are overweight/obese people all over this world and to single out one nation is pretty small minded. Keep up the great work, you inspire all who truly want to get fit. Burgers are oh so good!

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Parker Reply:
November 22nd, 2009 at 3:58 pm

You guys need to lighten up on poor James, he is in good company. A lot of individuals thought out the years have thought we should create a perfect society of beautiful people. Hitler comes to mind first, then the Russians. I’m all for individual goals and an individual seeking the help he or she needs to reach them. Come to think about it, they are both from Europe.

I do not pay a time for your advise and don’t have to read it if I disagree. James this might be hard for you but if you Google remove link form favorites, you may find the relief you are looking for.

Have a great day

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im from the uk, i eat way to much cheat food for my own good and love every second of it, is the bloke in the email tryin to say hes got a level of fitness like the greek statue template?? cause most us over here in the uk are nowhere near that…. or that ive seen anyway, and u guys seem to be on the video in pretty good shape, if not better than that

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I think having cheat foods serve several purposes. They taste great and act as reward for all the hard work you have done for the rest of the week. Also, after having a pizza or burger or whatever it is I usually feel a bit guilty and that motivates me to try and keep eating healthy again.

The cheat foods enable me to keep focus on my ultimate aim. You only have to look at glossy magazines and you will see a celebrity who has “fallen off the wagon” and put on some weight – probably because they have been starving themselves the rest of the time!

It’s all about finding the right balance, and rewarding yourself with something that actually tastes nice once every so often will keep your motivation high. I don’t think sitting at home in front of the tv eating, cottage cheese and protein shakes all week is going to do that!

As James has managed to keep his body at a level he is comfortable with I would have thought he would have been more supportive of those who have seen the light and are at least trying to do something about it. Well done to all those who are heading towards their goals!

I’ve just bought the Lean Hybrid package so I’ll be interested to see how it will work for me.

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Well, first of all, I just read an article about leptin, how it helps you lose weight, and how it is acquired by having cheat foods twice a week or so.
What I do is incorporate my cheat meals with my workout.
My weakness is ice cream, and thats about it. Im talking about tub after tub of ice cream, its just delicious. I eat ice-cream mixed with high fiber cereal (incredibly delicious) like honey bunches of oats and all bran before my workout. Believe me that when I eat this I have twice the energy for my workout. And if you are wanting weight loss, then eat a smaller ratio but because you’ll work twice as hard, you’ll burn much more calories on the hours after your workout. Then when I finish working out, I just have a protein drink, no carbs, and it makes up for it. I love doing this and this diminishes all my cravings for good.

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Funny story. Maybe a bit off topic, but we had a new guy take over our gym. Great guy. But, he was talking about getting rid of the heavier dumbbells. Wanted to do things like make more room for abdominals, lol. Some people don’t know what a real weightlifting is. Like we are all trying to look like Richard Simmons. As far as abs, you can just plop down a mat anywhere, or sit on a bench, use a cable machine, whatever. “Yes, folks, welcome to our abdominal training center.” Thank god he didn’t get rid of the dumbbells.

Love to hit the Chinese buffet, but I really can’t totally consider it a cheat food. Some people might. I don’t do the dry tuna stuff, I slather some mayo in there, if I eat it.

I like plain vanilla ice cream, not the cheap stuff. Now that is probably closer to a cheat food because of the sugar. I like me a soda as a treat too. I don’t keep in my fridge, but I’ll get them individually from the store. I don’t want to sit around drinking the stuff.

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G.day Bloke
Im with you on having at the very least one cheat meal a week + beer-it keeps you sain. I would like this joker to send you a photo of his ‘Choice body’-what a total wanker. The other option is to find out where this p***k lives and…..no sorry what was i thinking.
Take care

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Men and Beer would always go great together. what people forget is that anything in excess is bad. that’s just it. control over your life is what everyone needs to practice. control, to be disciplined enough to train hard and eat well. but come on, why deny the occasional, ice-cold beer (and chips on the side)?

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Okay Elliott I will honor your wishes and not attack this Nazi idiot. However, I must say that I have only had to deal with one such hata in the past 7 years. He did not have the guts to insult me face to face (wise choice) but did approach a young bodybuilder that came to me for assistance. It was nice to hear that my client was already sold on my methods, and made the gym a difficult place for this other individual to return to. Saying that, It is insulting to read such garbage that could not be further from the truth. My favorite cheat food is a cheeseburger as well (with fries). I will dabble in the sweets as well (pie and cake). No matter what, I must ensure tht the cheat meal is not all empty calories. It may keep me a little chubby at times, but strong all the time.
Thanks,
Warren Bryant

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Pizza any with extra cheese, burger king, kfc, dennys breakfast menu, cakes, and resse peanut butter and chocolate bars. Keep up the good work eliot

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man if this guy knew his stuff he would know it all comes down to how many calories you eat whether you want to lose or gain weight and if you’re happy with the way you look then it doesn’t matter.

I’m with you Eliot, I love me some big cheese burgers, also Italian food: meaty pasta, lasagna, meatball or salami subs.

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that guy is a wanker
his name is james ffs lmao
ever seen the penises on those greek statues?lol
abs or no abs,i dont want a body of a 16 yr old greek boy lol

my cheat food is homefried kfc southern style and chololate drinks and 70% dark chocolate
came back from a stabbing to my liver,lung back and forarm 5 yrs ago and i have the pains of that but pain is my friend,i eat pain
everyone i know either says nothing and looks away when i wear no shirt or they look and blush or the little shallows stare at the old ripped guy lmao

i love you guys btw

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What an asshole! Yes America is the fattest nation on earth, but many European countries don’t lack far behind.. He even puts the rest of us Europeans to shame (from Denmark) No wonder many Americans don’t like Europeans. I’ve seen your after photo, and oh my lord.. It is SICK! So keep the work up, and laugh at ignorant retards like that motherfucker

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I was looking at Elliots pics the other day, just to really check and see if there was any reason why someone would call him chubby.

That’s not chubby. Chubby is where you have stuff hanging over your belt, like me. Hey, I’m working on it.

Elliot is pretty darn lean. Maybe not shredded, but who cares. He’s bigger and leaner than before. Tha beast!

I like the idea of this Hybrid Program. Looks like you get bigger and stronger, so chicks will dig you more, excellent. You get leaner and healthier, nice. And, you have useful muscles that can do work, and you aren’t winded walking up stairs, ch-ching. Sounds like the best of all worlds in this program. When I get some expendable cash saved up, I would like to purchase the program.

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Whats up people, I just registered on this delightful discussion board and wished to say hi there! Have a extraordinary day!

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