Joele Smith, IFBB Pro Physique Competitor

With the results of the first Ms. Physique Olympia, it was apparent that the judges did not want lightweight female bodybuilders competing in the Women’s Physique Division(WP).  They wanted Figure type girls who were lean and more muscular, but not too muscular.  This led to followers believing that Women’s Physique was turning into “Figure Without Heels”.  With that said, if judges wanted “Figure With A Push” competitors.  It is surprising why Joele Smith could not qualify for the chance to be in the hunt for the first Ms. Physique Olympia.  If their is one WP competitor who fits the “Figure X” prototype, it is her.  Nevertheless, she was never in the mix for Ms. Physique Olympia.

From the state of Mississippi, Joele Smith has supermodel looks and southern charm.  Yet, she has the body of Greek goddess and the mindset of a pit bull.  This steel magnolia also brings energetic routines and is not afraid to fling it on stage.  Not only does she bring a lean, tight body to the stage.  It is also flexible and she poses with regal confidence.

Always an athletic person, Smith started competing in 2010.  When she participated in the NPC Alabama Steel World Bodybuilding Championships, as a Figure competitor.  Not only did she win the Figure novice class.  She also won the Figure open class and the Figure overall.  Next, she competed in the NPC Southern Classic.  Where she placed fifth.  She ended her 2010 season, at the NPC Eastern USA Championships.  However to her dismay, she did not place.

2011 would put Ms. Smith at a crossroads.  She began the year at the NPC Junior Nationals.  This was her first time on a national stage.  Despite being in her best shape ever, she did not place.  She went back to the regional level.  Where she returned to the NPC Southern Classic.  This time, however, Smith was victorious.  As, she won her class.

Smith had already planned to compete at the NPC Nationals in Florida.  But, friends were telling her.  If she wanted to be successful on the national level, she should compete in the new Women’s Physique Division.  Which was being held at the Nationals for the first time.  At first, Smith was hesitant.  For, she did not want to give up wearing the clear heels that comes with competing in Figure.  But, Smith was convinced and decided to crossover to WP.

At the 2011 NPC Nationals, Smith competed in the C (Tall) class in the Women’s Physique Division.  She was one of over 30 competitors in that class.  Throughout the contest, she was in a neck and neck battle with Georgia’s Tycie Coppett for the class title.  After a tight struggle, the judges chose Smith as the Class C champion.  Her crossover gamble paid off with an IFBB Pro Card.  Smith would narrowly lose the overall to Idaho’s Karin Kimura.

Smith made her pro debut at the 2012 IFBB Grand Prix of Los Angeles.  Where she finished a very respectable sixth.  She would compete in three other shows in 2012.  She placed fourth at the IFBB Europa Orlando Show Of Champions.  She placed fifth at the IFBB New York Pro.  She then ended her year with a sixth place finish at the IFBB Greater Gulf States Pro.

With 2013 being the start of Physique Olympia qualification, it was thought that Smith would be in the hunt for a spot in Vegas.  But, 2013 would be a mix bag for Smith. After finishing third at the IFBB Optimum Classic and fourth at the IFBB New York Pro.  Smith would not place in the top five in her next three shows.  She placed seventh at the IFBB Toronto Pro.  Then, placed fourteenth at the IFBB Tampa/PBW Pro.  Later, she placed twelfth at the IFBB Europa Dallas SuperShow.  These disappointing showings prevented her from participating in the Olympia.

Smith At The 2013 IFBB Toronto Pro.

Smith is a graduate of University of Southern Mississippi.  She is a licensed nurse.  She is also a former model, who went by the name Joelle Tyler.  Not to mention, she is the owner and operator of Physique Pro Fitness.  A web site that provides nutritional products and workout apparel.

Smith plans to start her 2014 season at the IFBB Europa Orlando Show Of Champions.  Here is hoping that it is the beginning of a year that ends in Vegas.

To Connect With Joele Smith:

Site
Facebok
Physique Pro Fitness
Model Mayhem

By R. Knight

It may be premature to talk about the future of Women’s Physique.  Since the division is barely three years old and they just crowned its first Ms. Physique Olympia champion only four months ago.  But let’s face it, Dana Linn Bailey(DLB) can’t win it forever.  So, who is going to be the next star Women’s Physique can put their faith in?  They can start by showing some love for Erykah Blockman.

Erykah Blockman is an outgoing, young lass.  Who can give DLB her money’s worth.  Blockman may not have DLB’s social media presence(At least not yet.).  But, she has all the traits of DLB without coming off as annoying or conceited.  She is an unique beauty and slowly making the powers that be take notice.

Blockman, 26, started her fitness competition “career” on a whim.  When she participated in the 2010 Flex Model Bikini Search.  Which was held during Olympia weekend.  Although, she didn’t place in the event.  It would be the start of her road into becoming an IFBB pro.

In 2011, Blockman entered the NPC Emerald Cup.  One of the NPC’s most prestigious regional shows, she competed in Women’s Bodybuilding and Figure.  While she placed a lowly eighth in the lightweight class in bodybuilding.  She won her class in Figure.  Her next competition was the 2011 NPC Sacramento.  Where she again won her class.  She ended the year with a fifth place finish at the 2011 NPC Nationals.

In 2012, Blockman once again entered the NPC Emerald Cup and again competed in two divisions.  This time, she competed in Figure and Women’s Physique(WP).  Women’s Physique was at the Emerald Cup for the first time.  She defended her class title in Figure.  While she placed third in her class in WP.  Blockman went back to the NPC Nationals.  Where again, she placed fifth in her Class A Figure class.

In 2013, feeling that she had gone as far as she could in Figure.  Blockman decided that she would concentrate on Women’s Physique exclusively.  As she skipped the Emerald Cup, upped her training and set her sights on the 2013 NPC Junior Nationals in Chicago.  When she stepped on stage in Chicago, it was appearant that she was the odds on favorite to win.  Her back and her posing was far superior from the rest and she easily won her class and the overall in Women’s Physique. Which also won her IFBB Pro status.  It was now obvious that a WP star was in the making.

She made her pro debut two months later, at the IFBB Europa Supershow in Dallas, Texas.  Where she placed a respectable sixth.

Blockman was born in California, but now calls Beaverton, Oregon home.  Known as “spitfire” to her friends, she is a licensed paramedic and former firefighter.  She is now a popular personal  trainer.  She is a Liquid Sun Rayz sponsored athlete and a sales representative for Cyclone Cup shakers.  She is also the fraternal twin sister of NPC Bikini competitor, Sondra Blockman.  Who once caused a small storm at the 2012 NPC Nationals for some provocative posing.

It is expected that Ms. Blockman will start her 2014 competitive season at the Emerald Cup on April 26.  Where a pro show will be held for the first time.  Since, she has won there before.  It should be no surprise to see Blockman hold up the winner’s trophy again.  This time, it comes with an invitation to Vegas in late September.  In which case, the future is now.

http://www.facebook.com/erykah.blockman

We are two years in, but for all purposes. The Men’s and Women’s Physique divisions have been a magnificent success for the NPC/IFBB. This year, both divisions crowned their first Olympia champions. Mark Anthony Wingson won the Men’s Physique Olympia title. While, Dana Linn Bailey claimed the Women’s Physique Olympia title. However, while Women’s Physique has become a welcomed addition to the NPC/IFBB Family. Men’s Physique is still looking for an identity and respect by old school followers. Who, for some reason, can’t see what the interest in MP is all about. To those who disdain MP, it’s a disgrace. But, to its supporters. They say its the new era of bodybuilding. MP’s critics are long and furious. But, The numbers are clearly with MP’s supporters.

To its critics, MP is nothing but a damn twink fest. That lowers the standard of true bodybuilding. It’s just a showcase for beach boys to catwalk on stage. While wearing ridiculous looking board shorts. That allows them to cover their legs. Thus, not having to worry about training them. Which makes MP detractors cry that it is bodybuilding without legs.

That probably doesn’t matter anyway. Since, it seems the guy who wins most MP competitions are usually the ones with the best hair and prettiest face. Which makes MP competitions look more like a model search contest than a bodybuilding contest. Some critics have gone as far to call Men’s Physique, “Men’s Bikini”.

Another thing that makes MP’s attackers blood boil is the time MP competitors add to shows that are already long thanks to Bikini. With Bikini and now MP, already dehydrated bodybuilders have to wait longer to get on stage. Bodybuilders usually go last during most competition events. These bodybuilders now have to wait for hours to show their wares. While having to endure tens of Figure, MP, and Bikini competitors. As, they go on stage before them. Which means the bodybuilding side of things doesn’t get decided until well after 12am or later.

MP’s supporters, of course, see it differently. They see MP as a new cash cow for the NPC/IFBB. Who have been searching for a fitness division that will spring into the mainstream for decades. MP’s biggest backers are bodybuilding promoters. who are making decent profits. Thanks to the large number of participants competing in MP. In some shows, MP competitors are outnumbering bodybuilders. In some cases, there are twice as many MP competitors than bodybuilders. The big participation in MP is not only during national events. But, for local and regional events, as well. Add the MP competitor’s girlfriend/boyfriend, family, and friends going to the show. Promoters are making money not only from entries but, from the ticket office as well.

2013 Mr. Physique Olympia Champion, Mark Anthony Wingson

Another large proponent of MP are the competitors themselves. Who are bodybuilders at heart. But, are not interested in pushing the envelope or trying to get big for big sake. MP has given them a chance to compete on stage. For some guys, they can’t achieve the mass that is needed to compete in bodybuilding contests. They see MP as the middle ground that allows them to successfully compete. While not having to go to the extreme.

Another factor that is on MP’s side are the supplement companies. Who are now signing MP competitors to help pimp their products to consumers. Companies are literally falling over themselves to get the next big MP athlete. Resulting in them no longer seeking bodybuilders to promote their products. MP critics see this as MP taking money away bodybuilders. Which they say will make more men want to become MP competitors instead of bodybuilders.

Here’s how I see it. Both sides of the MP debate have good points. But, let’s be frank. Bodybuilding contests are beauty pageants. How can bodybuilders who compete while dipped in oil and wearing thongs call anything a disgrace. Bodybuilders seem to love to rant about how society treats them. Yet, they are first in line to moan about other people’s lives and choices. It seems because of how society treats them, bodybuilders need to reflect some deep seeded insecurity upon the rest of us. So, they can get some necessary ego boost.

That being said, I can see myself saying the same thing about MP competitors in a few years. With their large numbers of participation and seemingly growing popularity, MP will claim to be bigger than bodybuilding. Then, MP competitors will demand that they be the main attraction during the Olympia. MP competitors will demand higher prize money. Which, in turn, the MP competitor will take the place of the bodybuilder as the insecure misfit needing an ego boost.

No matter what the future holds for both bodybuilding and Men’s Physique. It seems that neither will be dropping off the map anytime soon. So, both will have to learn to coexist, live together, and let destiny decide which one best showcases how muscle men are suppose to be.

MW:  Laura Jeanne Niedermayer. How the heck are you? Any relation to Scott who used to play for the New Jersey Devils?  Tell us a little about yourself. 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LJ.FiT
Gmail: lj.fit24@gmail.com
Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/user/LJFit

Bonus Questions:Bon Jovi or Cinderella: Bon Jovi
Favorite Cheat Food: Taco Bell…oops
Favorite Movie: Gladiator
Favorite Travel Destination: Mexico
NJ Devils or NY Rangers: Philadelphia Flyers!
The New Jersey Devil. Real or Fake: Fake. Except for the time I was driving home from the shore alone, at like 1 am, through the Pine Barrens…then I’d say that shit was real!

As most fans of MuscleWeek know, Senior Editor Shane Ray caught a bad case of ‘Yellow Fever’ last year and was briefly engaged to not one — but two different Asian fitness models. And while I like to think he’s learned his lesson about dating bikini girls, I’ve also learned that his newest addiction is going to outlast that case of herpes I gave him three years ago (we shared a glass of wine, I swear!) Anyways, when I told him about a hot, new Bikini competitor from Chicago named Maxine Chaikouang, his first question was ‘Chaikouang? What kind of name is that?’ It took exactly zero coaxing to get Shane to sit down for a nice Sushi dinner (on MuscleWeek’s tab) with the razor-sharp and ultra-fine Maxine.

MuscleWeek:  Maxine Chaikouang. Did I say that right? Tell Muscleweek a little about yourself. You own your own personal training company?

Maxine Chaikouang: Yep, I’ve been a personal trainer for over 4 years, but started off on my own in August of 2010. I do most of my business at HiFi personal fitness.

MW: There is a lot of money to be made in Personal Training if one can build a niche and reputation including clientele. What separates a good trainer and “rep counter”?

MC: Besides education. Being able to know exactly what it is that your client wants. If you can provide for them something that someone else is unable to do, and give them the results in regards to their goals; they’ll tend to stay with you for a while. Also, having a six pack and great legs wouldn’t hurt. Just kidding. Kind of.

MW: I am known to train a random client here and there but doing it full time would make me pull the hair I don’t have out of my head. I find it redundant and frustrating. How do you stay motivated and enthusiastic every day with every client?

MC: I know trainers at this popular gym in Barrington, Illinois who can’t train a days worth of clients without being stoned or slipping alcohol in their bottle of Speed Stack. I do have tough days sometimes, but I try to look at each session as an hour with a friend. Most times, it doesn’t feel like work to me. I also take into consideration what my clients pay me for that hour, and it makes me think ” they’re paying this much money just to spend an hour with me “. If you’re a compassionate person, it holds you to a certain feeling of obligation to make it worth their time.

MW: So how did you fall into the whole bodybuilding/physique thing? Was it a natural transition from being a trainer and into the gym scene anyway?

MC: It was pretty natural, and it does not hurt that I practically live at a gym. I was actually inspired by this woman at the gym who was doing shows. I had absolutely no idea that bikini competitions existed, but when she was walking around in her sports bra and tight abs; it truly was motivating. There’s also my mindset that you should always look better than your clients; or most of the general population for that matter. Trainers don’t like to admit it, but I will attest to the fact that if I didn’t have the body that I did; it would have been harder to attract many of the clients I have today.

MW: You compete in Bikini. Why don’t you compete in Figure? What’s the major difference between the two divisions?

MC: I like the general softness that bikini competitors still retain. Plus, I prance around in booty shorts all over the gym; why not showcase my talents on a real stage and actually win something?  The major difference is that figure competitors are much more developed muscularly and their goal is to be even leaner than bikini competitors. Separation between muscles are much more evident.

MW: I understand you work with Dr. Ko. What does he do different than other trainers? He seems to be building an impressive track record. Have you ever worked with anybody else?

MC: You will never meet a more benevolent, yet knowledgeable person with his type of physique. You can sense that he genuinely cares about you and your success. Not to mention his eye for minor details. With his experience, I knew I was in the right hands. I have worked with Katie Peterson, a colleague of mine at HiFI personal fitness. She actually competes in figure competitions.

MW: Would you say contestants in Ms. America, Hawaiian Tropic or Hogs & Honey pageants are athletes? Why do Bikini girls in the NPC consider themselves ATHLETES?

MC: Those girls are not athletes at all. NPC bikini girls are athletes because contrary to belief, it is a hard training regimen. The diet is tough, even though we are restricting calories respectively speaking, we are eating 6x/day and it’s all healthy stuff. No sweets, and definitely NO alcohol which most people find difficult. And most importantly…WE WORK OUT.

MW: What is the long term plan with competition? Pro Card? How will life change if you win the ever so elusive Pro Card?

MC: I most definitely am working to winning a Pro Card this year. I’m not sure what the future will hold when I win my Pro Card, but my purpose of achievement and recognition would definitely be fulfilled. My life probably wouldn’t change much, if anything I would find a new expensive hobby to fill my time.

MW: Do you feel the political card is the key to success in higher levels of competition or do you think hard work always prevail?

MC: Hard work is definitely a must, but in any industry or sport, I believe that politics absolutely plays a role in higher levels of competition. Because when you reach a certain point where there are two girls on stage who look just as equally gorgeous and perfect; how else would you discern but to make a decision that is biased by the pressure from the influential people who just so happen to hold a special interest in one of the girls?

MW: I have spoken to many Bikini competitors who are already dabbling in sorcery, alchemy and pharmacy. Do you feel like using physique enhancing drugs are necessary in serious competitions?

MC: Drugs are bad.

MW: What is the most frustrating things you see or have seen in your short time in this crazy industry?

MC: Girls who try too hard on stage and present themselves as porn actresses. Repulsive… and then going on to see those girls win or place. Just my pet peeve.

MW: Maxine, you’re an Asian girl who competes in Bikini. You’re not a typical boring “Barbie Doll”. How filled is your facebook inbox with schmoes trying to run Game on you? Besides an interview request from MuscleWeek, what kind of funny solicitations do you receive? 

MC: HAHAHAHA. Shane, if only you knew. Most of them your typical “you’re sexy as fuck”, I’m actually still waiting for something original.

MW: Yellow Fever seems to be a very serious but fortunate disease that inflicts many men who cross paths with girls like you. What kind of guys do you go for? You don’t date broke-dick dog bodybuilders who lie and post ducky face phone-mirror pics on facebook all day long do you?

MC: (Cracking up) Seriously? No I don’t go for any Pauly D’s, but what I do find sexy is that all-american, clean cut, highly intelligent, and witty guy (i.e. WASP/ Tom Brady-esque) Anyone who’s unable to hold a decent conversation stands no chance.

MW: If you can change one thing about Bikini what would it be? I see the girls are getting more muscular every show. Should the criteria change? Do you really need striated abs on stage?

MC: The one change I would like to see is a lower frequency of girls who have had their boobs done. I would love to see more NATURAL girls… maybe I’m biased because my bust size or lack thereof leaves me embittered. I think the criteria is fine where it’s at, but any direction further towards muscular would deter me from competing. I don’t think you need striated abs on stage… if anything I think many guys are repulsed by striated abs on girls.

MW: Moving on. Have you shopped any potential sponsors? If you could represent any company in the bodybuilding industry which one would it be?

MC: I have yet to shop for any potential sponsors.. maybe I’ve been waiting for them to come to me? Being a novice I wouldn’t know where to start. One company whose products I’ve always been satisfied with is Optimum Nutrition, but I wouldn’t mind others who are just as reputable.

MW: If you knew you were going to be stuck on a desert island for a full year but could bring with you 3 items. Which 3 items would you bring?

MC: My baby blanket, Atlas Shrugged (it took me a damn near half a year to complete), and my favorite pair of booty shorts.

MW: Who is your bodybuilding industry Hubby? Whose glutes do you want to squeeze?

MC:Is it bad that I don’t have one?

MW: Tell us something about Maxine Chaikouang that not many people know. Tell Muscleweek a secret.

MC: I’m that girl that can bake a batch of cookies, and leave none for anyone. Quite antithetic…

MW: If you could make only one wish come true what would be that wish?

MC: That I could eat all of the cupcakes in the world and still be sexy.

MW: Maxine. What are your 2012 plans? What shows could we see you at this year?

MC: You’ll most definitely see me at Illinois State in May, and I will be ready to rock at Junior Nationals :]

MW: Is there anything you would like to plug? Your website? Your personal training business?  How can potential sponsors, schmoes and clients who want to work with you contact you?

MC: Everyone can check out my site: FitMaxPersonalTraining, or find me on FACEBOOK

Bonus Questions:

Favorite Movie?

Troy.

Favorite Cheat Food?

Cupcakes or Sushi

Favorite Clean Food?

Oatmeal

Favorite Drink?

Tequila on the rocks.

MuscleWeek: Tell us a little about yourself, Rob. Where did you grow up? What do you do for a living?

Rob Krieder: I grew up in southern Maryland. Very rural and country. My grandfather, who was a farmer, gave my parents a few acres to build a house on and that is where they still are living to this day. I get most of my genetics from my grandfather. Hard working man, with huge arms and forearms and a heart of gold.

I have been running a personal training business since 1998, RK BODIES (www.rkbodies.com). I managed health clubs and was a fitness director as well, but I got tired of making the clubs a lot of money, and I myself, only seeing a fraction of that. I’ve always done things my way, and always will.

MW: How did you fall into this cult known as the competitive bodybuilding world? Was sand kicked in your face, too like most of us?

Nope, no sand kicked in my face. I was the stocky kid in school. During lunch, we would always have arm wrestling challenges and me and another kid were the champs.

I picked up a Muscle and Fitness and Flex magazine at a 7-11 when I was about 14 and read those suckers from front to back. I had no idea what they were talking about, but I did my best to apply it all in the basement of my parents house using my fathers sand weights. I kept educating myself through magazines and Arnold’s Encyclopedia of Body Building. I grossly over trained for a couple of years trying to emulate the pro’s routines, not realizing they were all juiced up. It wasn’t until Dorian Yates came on to the scene and his high intensity/low volume approach became popular. The more rest I gave myself, the more I grew.

MW: Would you say you are now over the hump? On your way UP the hump one constantly worries about their nitrogen balance and thinks whey protein will help “build muscle”. Over the hump means if you miss a meal you know you’re not going to shrivel up and drop 60lbs and evaporate into nothing. It means you put your fanny pack away and don’t look down on men with hair on their legs. Which side of the hump are you on?

RK: I was obsessed at an early age, and I am glad I grew out of that quickly. I am educated, with a Bachelors in Exercise Physiology (Cum Laude), so I got over the hump a long time ago. I don’t look down upon anyone. Fanny packs, bad bad memories. How about tight skinz pants back in the day as well. Funny shit.

MW: Did you at one point have a true interest in winning a pro card?

RK: I still do. I hope to obtain that fucker in 2013 at Masters Nationals. I is just a personal goal, one I have had since I was a kid. I have experienced everything a pro body builder has already, except the pro card. I have been sponsored by Twinlab, MHP, MuscleTech and now Big Bitch Formula (www.bigbitchformula.com), I have traveled the country, working booths at show, tons of photo shoots, interviews, videos, magazines cover and features etc etc. I have done it all pretty much. Has it changed me or made me a better man? Not really, but it has made me realize body building isn’t a mean to an end. I will never make a career of body building. I just enjoy doing it. I wouldn’t have competed in over 30 contests in 20 years if I didn’t.

MW: What would have that really given you besides an annual bill to “renew” it?

RK: To pay for your pro card in the first place is the most absurd thing EVER. It may help my business slightly with the added title of IFBB pro body builder. That’s about it.

MW: Do you dabble in seedy ways to make money like majority higher level competitive bodybuilders do? You don’t have a pseudonym somewhere in cyberspace such as Zeus Maximus, do you?

RK: Too fucking funny. I have had so many people contact me for private posing, web cam shit etc. I have morals. I couldn’t live with myself if I did any of that crap. The only person I have a pseudonym for is my fiance. Gotta keep things new and exciting right ? lol

MW: It’s public knowledge now in the bodybuilding world over your distaste and mishap with hiring George Farah. You claim he was not invested in you and was very flaky like a typical bodybuilder despite your handsome payment to him. Tell us a little about that.

RK: We had a run in down in South Beach, Miami this past Nationals. I paid him for 16 weeks of contest prep. I heard from him the first 4 weeks and didn’t hear a peep until our paths crossed in Miami. I asked what happened ? He said what do you mean? I said, I haven’t heard from you in 12 weeks. He tried to turn it around on me, I haven’t heard from you. I said, George I paid you to be my coach, if you don’t hear from me, wouldn’t you feel obligated to at least check in with me ? He said, I lost your email. Someone broke into my garage/car and stole my lap top. I shook my head, knowing you don’t need your lap top to access your address book. I said, you have my number also. He said no I don’t. I showed my phone with his number on it. I said look, I am not hear to argue, can I get a refund, since I feel I paid for a service that I didn’t get ? He said, yeah sure, whatever to make it better. Have I seen any type of refund ?? NOPE. After my radio interview on RX MUSCLE, in which I told the same story, he probably got his panties all up in a bunch.

MW: What possessed you to hire George in the first place? Why George over somebody else such as a Chris Aceto or “Diamond” Dave Palumbo?

RK: I was going to go with Palumbo. The dude is pretty smart. However, a couple good friends of mine suggested Farah, so I did. I thought you get what you pay for ($1500) and Palumbo was much cheaper. Boy was I wrong. I may work with Palumbo for the 2013 Nationals, but to be honest, no one knows my body better than I do. I did consult with someone this past Nationals who was good, but if I had done things my way the final couple of days, I would have done much better.

MW: Is competitive bodybuilding in your future cards still?

RK: Indeed. I love this shit. I don’t give a flying fuck where the judges place me. I won’t kiss anyone’s ass either for a better placing. I do this to challenge myself. It is always a journey I enjoy. It is like therapy I suppose. Until I find another hobby/activity that challenges me in the same way, I will always be a body builder.

MW: What frustrates you the most with the way competitive bodybuilding is governed by the Usual Suspects and power brokers?

RK: Politics man…just politics. During the run in with Farah, he said I had a guy in your weight class place in the top five. I said who? I wont name names, but he said he placed fifth. I knew who it was and threw my arms up in the air and said, well that explains it. That is the only way someone with a fat ass and zero conditioning could make it in the top five.

MW: It seems like Men’s Physique is growing and bodybuilding is dwindling. Just look at the numbers. Why do you think more guys are choosing the Men’s Physique route?

RK: It is more mainstream. It is not as hard core. Body building has gone in the wrong direction the past 15 years. Bigger is not better. It has gone so far to the extreme that I don’t believe it will come back. But its the fans doing. No one wants to see a dude they see on the street every day. They want freaks. It is a freak show, but now the Physique division is great for the women admirers as well as the homosexual population. One thing about the NPC, they are smart business men.

MW: Competitive bodybuilding seems to be a game of alchemy, sorcery and chemical wizardry more than ever. I know of guys still on the local scene barely cracking the Top 5 in a light heavy class that use year around and exceed dosages up to 2g a week and possibly up to 10 unites of serostim daily. Is this facilitated by the way bodybuilding is governed?

RK: Its gone way way overboard. I say, if you don’t have the genetics to be a body builder, pick another hobby. You aren’t gonna make it past the local scene. People who use so much gear just on the local scene, make zero sense to me. This chemistry shit isn’t healthy. People are fucking with their long term health and longevity. I have learned the hard way regarding all of that also. Been there and done that with crazy dosages. I was strong, but bloated me, gave me high blood pressure and nose bleeds etc. Felt horrible all of the time. That ain’t fun to me. For the past several years, I have only touched stuff around contest time. If I cannot grow in the off season from eating lots, training like a beast, resting lots etc, then I am not cut out to be a body builder. Again it goes back to genetics man.

MW: Delusions of Grandeur seems to be an ailment affecting many competitive bodybuilders. In your early years of all of this did you think streets of gold and a lifestyle of a baller was waiting for you eventually?

RK: More people are realizing now that unless you are a Heath or a Cutler there is less than no money or opportunity for you. Like I said above, I have done it all except receive my pro card. It has helped my business etc. I know there isn’t a career in it for me. I learned this years ago. It’s all about balance. Most body builders are extremist for some reason or another. Body building is used to cover up insecurities as well. When something is done at one extreme, the other end of that extreme is waiting right around the corner. Universal balance man.

MW: You seem to be a smooth cat and Playa.  How many Figure girl Industry chick ass have you white washed?  Be honest.

RK: Out of respect and love for my fiance, I will not divulge that information. Let’s just say, I sowed oats here and there, when I was young, dumb and full of………BOOM !

MW: Is dating a competitor chick really all that? The ones I dated were all fit for a straight jacket and Thorazine drip.

RK: Chicks who get into the sport are just as fucked up as a lot of body builders. Covering up insecurities x 100. As for the ones who get on the juice, why the fuck do you want to have facial hair, a raspy deep voice, a manly face, zits, and a huge clit ? Well maybe the huge clit ain’t so bad for em. Easier to get off BOOM !

MW: Where does Rob Kreider see himself in five years?

RK: In 5 years, I will be married with kids, partnered with my boy Bobby Haire with Big Bitch Formula, kicking the supplement industry in the ass, and also opening a gym with him as well.

MW: Who are some of the best people in the bodybuilding industry that you admire and can actually call a friend?

RK: Mat Duvall, Troy Moore, Fred Smalls, Vinnie Galanti, Derek Farnsworth, Lee Priest.

MW: Who shouldn’t be expecting a Christmas card from you this year or anytime soon?

RK: George Farah !

MW: Marry. Fuck. Kill. Ready? Ava Cowan. Jessica Paxton. Erin Stern.

RK: I am engaged man brother. I wouldn’t marry or kill any of them, soooooo…….

MW: How can people get ahold of you for nutritional prep and contest coaching? Is there anything you’d like to plug? Feel free.

RK: My personal/business website is www.rkbodies.com. My sponsor Big Bitch Formula is gonna come on strong in 2012. The BEST tasting whey…ever. NO BS. www.bigbitchformula.com

MW: Name Association. I drop a name and in one word tell us what comes to mind.

George Farah: Fucking douche bag!

Steve Blechman: Wise

Steve Weinberger: The Godfather

Aaron Singerman: I don’t know who he is.

Arnold Schwarzenegger: Bodybuilding.

RK Bodies – Personal Training in Washington, DC, Bodybuilder, Model

Rather than stick around Venice and continue to try to eke out a living by training fatsos and doing the ‘Venice Hustle’, Paul returned to his native Ontario and quietly launched the WBFF. While the IFBB initially expressed some concern about a new organization, Paul provided assurances to the powers-that-be that the WBFF was no threat to the IFBB — that Paul had zero interest or ambition to bring his contests to the United States and that he was simply filling a void that neither the NPC nor the IFBB could fill. Convinced that Paul was a good soldier, the power-brokers accepted him at his word and made no efforts to sabotage Paul’s new WBFF organization.

Paul’s sense of showmanship and experience as a bodybuilder led to several successful promotions and even brought aboard mainstream sponsors. With Paul bringing in entertainment to provide lively performances for the fans, his shows were reminiscent of the old IFBB Night of Champions or Olympia events, replete with mainstream news coverage, widely seen advertising, and sellout crowds.

It seemed to be just a matter of time before Paul’s ambitions to grow his organization locked horns with the NPC/IFBB. When Paul launched the Male Fitness Model division in 2009, it seemed that he had stumbled upon something golden. What if the majority of the attendees and consumers — men — had another option to display their physique without having to take years off their health and lives by mass consuming growth hormone, steroids, diuretics, insulin, and painkillers?

The WBFF’s Male Fitness Model competition was an immediate hit with both competitors and the fans.

And the NPC/IFBB took notice. If imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, then Dillett must have been incredibly flattered when in 2010, the NPC launched their own version of the WBFF’s Male Fitness Model competition — renaming it Men’s Physique Division (MPD).

Except that Paul Dillett wasn’t flattered. He was incensed. Just like he was nearly ten years earlier when some of those same NPC/IFBB decision-makers placed Paul a ridiculous 6th behind a mutant of messy mass known as Paco Bautista and a man half his width in Darrem Charles. And just as he had done ten years earlier, Paul didn’t sit around moping about it — he ACTED upon it.

Paul announced the WBFF’s invasion of the United States by launching his first state-wide show in Boston in July, 2011. Although turnout for the show was less than expected (only 4 men competed in the Male Fitness Model division), the message was clear.  The WBFF had declared war on the NPC.

So it wasn’t that much of a surprise that Dillett followed up his initial foray into NPC-territory by launching an attack on the IFBB front as well. By signing longtime IFBB-nuisance Lee Priest, the WBFF communicated their intent to bring both a highly-organized and well-funded alternative to both the NPC and the IFBB to the United States. And after some questionable judging at the recent IFBB Europa and Tijuana shows, many IFBB competitors were quick to call Paul and make more than just a passing inquiry or two.

Sure, we’ve seen all of this before. Wayne DeMilia’s PDI (also starring Lee Priest) launch was a dismal failure, in part because of Wayne’s failing health and in part because of the NPC/IFBB’s desperate attempts to sabotage it in every way. For a small example of that, just see NPC/IFBB Shill and Getbig Owner Ron Avidan’s absurd interview with DeMilia.

But give the NPC/IFBB credit. They are no fools. They’ve been down this road before and know precisely how to control the ‘bodybuilding media’. Using a combination of a carrot-and-stick approach and an iron fist, they will do everything in their power to prevent Paul from getting word out about his show. They will offer rewards to prominent and dissatisfied Pros like King Kamali (such as an Olympia commentating spot), hand out Pro Cards to undeserving candidates who burn the new organization (see Vinny Galanti), and be forced to finally hand over pro cards to former dissidents like Sean Allan (another former PDI Pro who returned to the NPC on his knees and begging forgiveness).

Wayne DeMilia’s biggest mistake with the PDI was his own failure to aggressively recruit IFBB Pros. His ‘sit back and wait for the phone to ring’ approach doesn’t cut the mustard in a business as cutthroat as the fitness and physique business. No, I expect Paul Dillett to be spending several hours a day over the next few weeks reaching out to those guys who for one reason or another have gotten the shaft from the NPC/IFBB. And speaking of elevators and shafts, I fully expect world-renowned bodybuilding MC Robert Cicherillo to be doing the exact same on behalf of his unofficial bosses at the NPC/IFBB.

Make no mistake. The WBFF isn’t playing.

This is WAR.

MuscleWeek: Hi Steve, thanks for taking time out of your busy schedule to chat with MuscleWeek. Let’s talk about the upcoming USA show. Other than yourself, who do you see as your biggest competition for the USA?

Kuclo: There are a lot of great guys that are stepping on stage in Vegas. As the show approaches I typically am on the computer less and less and spend more time in the gym, so I’m not always up and up on who is competing in the show or looks good. You hear rumors but it’s all about who shows up the day of the show.

MuscleWeek: Gotcha. We often hear NPC guys going on and on about grabbing that elusive ‘Pro Card’. How would winning a Pro Card improve or affect your life?

Kuclo: Regardless if I am a pro or not I am still Steve Kuclo. That does not change where I’m from and what I stand for. The obvious that comes with pro status is being able to compete for prize money which is exciting and shooting for the ultimate goal of one day being Mr. Olympia.

MuscleWeek: Other than that, in what way(s) would being an IFBB Pro allow you to have a positive impact on your community/society?

Kuclo: I have recently started to work with kids and am putting together community work and programs with inner city kids. I’m calling my program, “Kuclo’s Kids.” I’ve always said I want to be a pioneer of the sport and have a positive impact on the sport from the public persona. Working as a firefighter/paramedic has shown many people that having a demanding full time job and prepping for a show is possible.

MuscleWeek: That’s definitely something admirable that differentiates you from other guys who don’t do anything except bodybuilding. Let’s talk about your heavy training style. When lifting extremely heavy (200 DBL presses), is there ever any concern over injury?

Kuclo: So much of lifting heavy weight is mental and having the confidence to push yourself to new levels is critical.

MuscleWeek: Do you think you’d regret lifting so heavy if a major injury did occur?

Kuclo: As soon as you second guess the lift or lose that mind-muscle connection you can lose it and risk injury.

MuscleWeek: Well then, don’t lose that connection bro! Best of luck at the USA.

Kuclo: Thank you for your time Jason and the interview!