2010 Iron Man Blog

Hi everybody!

The Iron Man in LA is here and I have the honor to be a guest speaker at The FitExpo at PROPTA’s seminar: "Women Only."  The seminar is going to include myself (Marika Johansson), Adela Garcia, Tanji Johnson and Sherry Goggin. Women will be able to ask questions and get info about different levels of training and diet.

I will be at PROPTA’s booth and from time to time at Bodybuilding.com’s booth also during the weekend, signing and selling pictures and my DVD "Cinderella Story."  Check out PROPTA at www.propta.com.

This is going to be a great event with one of the toughest fields we have seen in many years in the IFBB Men’s Pro division.

So welcome to the 2008 FITEXPO AND THE IRONMAN PRO IN LOS ANGELES, ALL THIS WEEKEND!

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
LOS ANGELES FITEXPO
FEBRUARY 15th-17th, 2008

Guests and appearance times are subject to change
Posting as of 2-13-08
______________________

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15TH

SHOW HOURS: 3:00 P.M.-7:00 P.M.

3:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. Gaspari Nutrition’s All-American Strongman Challenge

3:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. Scot Mendelson Pro Classic Weigh-In

3:00 p.m. -7:00 p.m. The Gracie US Nationals Weigh-In

4:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m. The 2008 Iron Man Pro XIX Press Conference & Weigh-In

5:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m. Iron Man Presents “Meet The Pros”

5:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. MMA: Coach Fred George and Mixed Martial Artists:

Olivier Gruner, Ben Jones and Erik Paulson

Courtesy of MMA Worldwide, Inc.

6:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. inFITnity Performance Group Presents: Expert martial art demo team for tae kwon do , capoiera, XMA , tricksters, professional dancers, break dancers, acrobatics and, gymnastics for an electic mix of entertainment.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 16TH

SHOW HOURS: 10:00 A.M.-6:00 P.M.

10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. The 2008 Iron Man Pro XIX Men’s Competition (Judging) * separate ticket purchase is required for entry

10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. American Gladiator Try-Outs

10:00 a.m. -6:00 p.m. The Gracie US Nationals

10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Con-Cret USPF American Cup

10:45 a.m.-11:45 a.m. MMA: Ken Yasuda and former IFL stars tentatively scheduled to appear: Dave Phillips, George Castro, Jason Palacios & Tom Howard and Hosted by Herb Dean

11:00 a.m.-11:15 p.m. Shin’s Martial Arts Performance Team

11:00 a.m. -1:00 p.m. Operation Fitness Teen Strength and Fitness Challenge

11:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Sumo Wrestling Demo with Troy Collins

12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. NPC Women’s Figure Competition (Judging)
NOTE: there is a charge for the event this year
* Only open to Iron Man Pro XIX ticket holders—you can purchase a ticket onsite

12:00 pm.-12:45 p.m. Ben B. Won, L.A.C. Seminar “Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine” (courtesy of The Eleanor Group)

12:00 p.m.-12:45 p.m. Dr. Robert Goldman “Anti-Aging Seminar”

12:00 p.m.-1:30 p.m. MMA: MMA Celebrity Fighter Randy Couture Appearance and Seminar (courtesy of MMA Worldwide Inc.) Hosted by: Herb Dean (Randy Couture autograph signing at the MMA Worldwide, Inc. Exhibitor Booth #737 at 2:00 p.m. -3:00 p.m.)

12:15 p.m.-12:25 p.m. Fitness Divas Dance Troupe Performance

12:15 p.m-1:00 p.m. Strongmen Competitors–Odd Haugen, Mark Phillipi, David Ostlund and Brian Shaw Seminar “Staying Strong With the World’s Strongest Men”

12:45 p.m.-1:15 p.m. Healthy Living with Cathy Silvers Lifestyle Coach
and Raw Vegan Chef Seminar/Demo (courtesy of Granola Gourmet)

1:00 p.m.-1:45 p.m. Robby Robinson Seminar “Success is in the Detail”
(courtesy of PTA)

1:00-3:00 p.m. Scot Mendelson Pro Classic

1:00-3:00 p.m. American Gladiator Autograph Signing at the
Headblade Inc. Exhibitor Booth

1:15-2:00 p.m. Dr. David Saadat Seminar “Plastic Surgery 2008”
(courtesy of The Eleanor Group)

1:15 p.m.-2:00 p.m. USC’S Headcoach Chris Carlisle Seminar “Training the Explosive Athlete”

1:30 p.m.-2:30 p.m. The FitExpo’s MaxReps 4 Cash Bicep Curl Attendee Competition Hosted by: Roland Kickinger, Bodybuilder/Actor/Producer

1:45p.m.-2:45 p.m. MMA: Javier “Showtime” Vazquez and Jon “War Machine” Koppenhaver Seminar/Demo “Making it in MMA!” Hosted by Herb Dean

2:00 p.m.-2:45 p.m. Mike Torchia Seminar “Fitness is a Family Affair”

2:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m. MMA Fighter Randy Couture Autograph Signing at the MMA Exhibitor Booth # 737

2:30 p.m.-3:15 p.m. Mark Faulkner Seminar “TBD” (courtesy of Con-Cret)
2:30 p.m.-3:15 pm. Dr. Tom Deters Seminar “Bodyfat Control”

2:30 p.m.-3:15 p.m. Heather Loundsbury Seminar “Optimal Health Through Combined Eastern and Western Nutrition (courtesy of The Eleanor Group

2:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m. Brenda Kelly’s “Timeless Fitness” Seminar with Panel Guests: Timea Majorova, Pax Beale, Kenny Kassel and
Cynthia & Jordan Bridges-Satalowich (courtesy of Bodybuilding.com and Natural Muscle Magazine)

3:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m. NBC presents “The American Gladiators Meet-N-Greet” with Wolf (Don Yates), Mayhem (Romeo Williams) and Justice (Justice Smith), Stealth (Tanji Johnson), Venom (Beth Horn) and Militia (Alex Castro)

3:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m. MMA Fighter Keith Jardine Autograph Signing at the MMA Worldwide, Inc. Exhibitor Booth #737

3:00 p.m.-4:30 p.m. MMA: The Pits, John Hackleman with MMA Fighters Glover Teixeira and Scott LIghty, Hosted by Herb Dean

3:15-4:00 p.m. Dr. Del Millers Seminar/Demo “DEL-icious 10 Minute Meals”

3:45 p.m.-4:15 p.m. Kit Rich Seminar/Demo “Pilates Plus:
Pilates Plus a Whole Lot More!” (courtesy of The Eleanor Group)

3:45 p.m.-4:30 p.m. Dr. Nick Delgado Seminar “Sexual Healing: A Five Step Plan To Restore Longevity, Intimacy and Quality of Life”

3:45 p.m.-4:30 p.m. Kenny Kassel Seminar “How to Parlay Your Fitness Package into a Career in Entertainment”

4:00 p.m.-4:45 p.m. Dennis “The Menace” James “Bodybuilding Seminar” (courtesy of Weider Publications, Inc.)

4:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m. Gaspari Nutrition’s All-American Strongman Challenge

4:15 p.m.-4:30 p.m. Power Plate Fitness Demonstration

4:30 p.m.-5:15 p.m. Kevin Lawrence Seminar “The Miracle of Protein:
Protein Use Pre and Post Workout (courtesy of BNRG)

4:45 p.m.-6:00 p.m. MMA: Keith “The Dean of Mean” Jardine and Hosted by Herb Dean

5:00 p.m.-5:45 p.m. Jerry Brainum Seminar “Sports Nutrition: Fact vs. Fiction”

5:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m. FitExpo MaxReps 4 Cash Bench Press Attendee Competition Hosted by: Roland Kickinger, Bodybuilder/Actor/Producer

5:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m. Adela Friedmansky, Tanji Johnson and Marika
Johansson Seminar “For Women Only!” (courtesy of PTA)

5:30 p.m. (doors open) Gladiator Challenge Presents “Evolution” MMA Live Event! (separate ticket purchase is required for entry)

6:30 p.m. Iron Man Pro XIX Men’s and NPC Women’s Figure Finals
*Open to Iron Pro XIX ticket holders—you can purchase a ticket onsite

7:00 p.m. (fight starts) Gladiator Challenge Presents “Evolution” MMA Live Event! *separate ticket purchase is required for entry

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 17TH

SHOW HOURS: 10:00 A.M.-5:00 P.M.

10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. American Gladiator “Try-Outs”

10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. The Gracie US Nationals

10:00 a.m. -5:00 p.m. Con-Cret USPF American Cup

11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Gaspari Nutrition’s All-American Strongman Challenge

11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. FitExpo’s MaxReps 4 Cash Push-Up Attendee Competition Hosted by: Roland Kickinger, Bodybuilder/Actor/Producer

11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. MMA: The Pits, John Hackleman with fighters Glover Teixeira and Scott LIghty, Hosted by Herb Dean

12:00 p.m.-12:45 p.m. Layla Fayyad Seminar “Flawless Skin from the Best of Nature and Science” (courtesy of The Eleanor Group)

12:00 p.m.-12:45 p.m. Isaac Hinds Seminar “Branding, Marketing & Self-Promotion in the Fitness Industry”

12:30 p.m.-1:15 p.m. Michael Walczak, M.D. Seminar “Anti-Aging and Nutrition Presented by The Legend!” (courtesy of PTA)

12:45-1:30 p.m. King Kamali Bodybuilding Seminar “Making an Impact”

1:00 p.m.-1:45 p.m. Venus Ramos, M.D. Seminar “Ask the Doc: Rehab & Prevention of Common Injuries in the Active Adult”

1:00 p.m.-2:00 p.m. NBC presents “The American Gladiators Meet-N-Greet” with Wolf “Don Yates”, Mayhem (Romeo Williams), Justice (Justice Smith), Stealth (Tanji Johnson), Venom (Beth Horn) and Militia (Alex Castro).

1:15 p.m.-2:00 p.m. Azra Mitra Layeghi, R.N., MSN Seminar “Beauty Without a Knife” (courtesy of The Eleanor Group)

1:15 p.m.-2:45 p.m. MMA: Greg Jackson & Keith “The Dean of Mean” Jardine. Hosted by Herb Dean

1:30 p.m.-1:15 p.m. Power Plate Fitness Demonstration

2:00 p.m.-2:15 p.m. Fitness Divas Dance Routine

2:00 p.m.-2:45 p.m. Phil Heath Seminar “Going the Distance With the Gift”

2:15 p.m.-3:00 p.m. Healthy Living with Cathy Silvers Lifestyle Coach
and Raw Vegan Chef Seminar/Demo (courtesy of Granola Gourmet)

2:15 p.m. -3:15 p.m. The FitExpo’s MaxReps 4 Cash Pull-Up Attendee Competition. Hosted by: Roland Kickinger, Bodybuilder/Actor/Producer

2:30 p.m.-3:00 p.m. Darren Levine presents “Krav Maga” Demonstration with Marcus Kowal

2:30 p.m.-3:15 p.m. Johnny Ray Carino Seminar/Demo “Carino Massage” (courtesy of The Eleanor Group)

3:00 p.m.-3:45 p.m. Mike Torchia Seminar “Pet Obesity and What to do About It”

3:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m. Mr. Olympia Jay Cutler Seminar “Getting to the Top and Staying There” (courtesy of Weider Publications, Inc.)

3:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m. MMA Fighter Keith Jardine Autograph Signing at the MMA Worldwide, Inc. Exhibitor Booth #737

3:00 p.m.-4:30 p.m. 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. MMA: Knockout Productions Present: Antonio McKee, Savant Young, Brett Cooper, Tracy Hess & Cobb Whitehorse

3:30 p.m.-4:15 p.m. The Los Angeles Fit Expo’s 2008 Fittest Couple Contest

Guests and appearance times are subject to change
Posting as of 2-13-08

Source: http://thefitexpo.com/schedule.asp

Official Web Site: www.ironmanpro.com

PRESS CONFERENCE/MEN’S WEIGH-IN
Friday, Feb. 15 (4 p.m.) - West Hall A. One of the most exciting events every year! Meet with Iron Man
publisher John Balik and Lonnie Teper, the most accomplished emcee in bodybuilding, as they introduce
and weigh in all its pro competitors. All industry and mainstream press, VIP guests and Expo attendees are
invited to participate. Get a sneak peek at these amazing bodies and see if you can predict who will win the IRON MAN Pro XIX title.

MEET THE PROS
Friday, Feb. 15 (5 p.m.) - West Hall A. We’ve asked the competitors to stick around in the Main Stage to
mingle and meet attendees, so take this opportunity to wish your favorite athlete good luck and grab a photo or two with them as well!

IFBB IRON MAN PRO BODYBUILDING COMPETITION (JUDGING)
Saturday, Feb. 16 (10 a.m.) - West Hall B.  The IFBB Iron Man Pro bodybuilding contest, now in its 19th
year, is the longest-running IFBB professional bodybuilding event on the West Coast. The TOP FIVE finishers will qualify to compete in the ‘08 Mr. Olympia . Total prize money is $30,000.  Competitor list includes Toney Freeman, Gustavo Badell, Phil Heath, Silvio Samuel, Desmond Miller, Will Haris, Troy Alves, Johnnie Jackson, Eddie Abbew, and many others.

NPC IRON MAN FIGURE COMPETITION
Saturday, Feb. 16 (12 p.m.) - West Hall B.  Featuring the world’s hottest, fittest female bodies on one stage!  This has been an extremely popular event over the years. The overall winner will receive a photo shoot with Iron Man Magazine’s celebrated photographer, Michael Neveux, and  will be featured in Iron Man Magazine.

IFBB IRON MAN PRO BODYBUILDING & NPC FIGURE (FINALS)
Saturday, Feb. 16 (6:30 p.m.) - West Hall B. The Finals event features individual posing followed by the exciting posedown of the top 5 to determine the ultimate Iron Man Pro Champion who will take home $15,000.  

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD: REG PARK
Since 1998 we have paid tribute to those who have devoted a lifetime commitment to bodybuilding such as Mickey Hargitay, Vince Gironda, Joe Weider, Jim Manion, Bill Bearl and Jack LaLanne.  This year the Peary & Mabel Rader Award for Lifetime Achievement will be posthumously awarded to Reg Park.

Reg Park was one of the all-time greatest bodybuilding superstars. He left an impression on the iron game that will live forever. He was larger than life and a real champion’s champion. He passed away on November 22, 2007, of advanced skin cancer.  At a special tribute held in his honor on December 16, 2007, at the Fairmont Miramar Hotel in Santa Monica, California, more than 200 of his friends and admirers gathered to
celebrate his fabulous life and times in a private party hosted by Arnold Schwarzenegger and his wife, Maria Shriver.

Reg was the first man to win three Mr. Universe titles, and he did that at seven-year intervals—’51, ‘58 and ‘65.  He also had a successful career in movies, starring in five films as Hercules.  An amazing Renaissance man, he owned five gyms in South Africa and was a contest promoter extraordinaire, holding events all over that country.  He also published a highly respected bodybuilding magazine, the Reg Park Journal.  He trained many champion athletes and bodybuilders and greatly influenced Arnold as a mentor and inspirational motivating force.

Reg first came to the attention of the bodybuilding world in 1950, when he competed against Steve Reeves
in the Mr. Universe contest.  He lost by a half point, and many thought he should have won because he had
greater muscle density and muscularity than Reeves.  He returned to win the title the next year, and his legendary career skyrocketed.  He was considered the world’s greatest bodybuilder by most fans and authorities at that time and for many years thereafter.

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SHOW SCHEDULE
******************************
Press Conference/Men’s Weigh-in, Friday, Feb. 15  at 4 p.m. (West Hall A)
Meet the Pros, Friday, Feb. 15 at 5 p.m. (West Hall A)
Men’s Judging:  Saturday, Feb. 16 at 10:00 a.m. (West Hall B)
Figure Judging:  Saturday, Feb. 16 at 12 noon (West Hall B)
Finals: Saturday, Feb. 16 at 6:30 p.m. (West Hall B)
FitExpo Hours: Fri/Sat/Sun, Feb. 15, 16, 17 (West Hall A)

*Schedule subject to change. Check www.ironmanpro.com for updates.

*******************************
TICKETS
*******************************
Judging + FREE Saturday Expo ($40)
Finals + FREE Saturday Expo ($70, $50)
*VIP Package ($125) includes Judging/Finals + 3-Day
Expo pass, BEST CENTER SEATING and the 2008 IRON MAN Pro DVD.

Call to order 800-447-0008 (24/7) or online www.ironmanpro.com. All seats are assigned.

Tickets also available at:
Max Muscle Venice
259 Hampton Dr, #A, Venice, CA 90291
Tel: 310-581-9885

IRON MAN BOX OFFICE
Los Angeles Convention Center, West Hall
Friday, Feb. 15 - 3pm to 7pm
Saturday, Feb. 16 - 9am to 8pm

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COMPETITORS
*******************************

MEN
Toney Freeman
Gustavo Badell
Phil Heath
Silvio Samuel
Desmond Miller
Troy Alves
Johnnie Jackson
Eddie Abbew
Khalid Almohsinawi
Ray Arde
Paul Baker
Troy Brown
Rodney Davis
Omar Deckard
Alfonso del Rio
Moe Elmoussawi
Deshaun Grimez
David Henry
Rusty Jeffers
King Kamali
Vincent Liu
JoJo Ntiforo
Sergey Ogorodnikov
Gian Enrico Pica
Armin Scholz
Jimmy Canyon
Ken Jones
Will Harris
Mehmet Yildirim
Dragan Paunovic
Neset Icli
Nathan Wonsley

FIGURE
Debbie Bell
Lynette Brooks
Danelle Edmonds
Laurie Eldredge
Hannah Fox
Danitza Freigher
Holly Humphreys
Jennifer Kline
Delinia Lewis
Lisa Lynn-Calhoun
Dore Madere
Kimberly McGarry
MaryAnn Pangelinan
Kathryn Payton
Kristina Perez
Alma Ramirez
Venus Ramos
Ana Tigre
Lorenn Uscilowski
Soumaya Wilmore
Lucinda Witte

A new podcast audio interview by Dan Gastelu has just been published, with Iron Man Magazine’s John Balik and TheFitExpo’s Mark Missioreck.  If you want to hear some great Iron Man Pro predictions and get a sneak preview of this year’s Iron Man Pro, tune in now to listen!

http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/balikpodcast.htm

Iron Man Magazine’s John Balik in his youth.

Enjoy! 

AMERICAN GLADIATORS at The Los Angeles Fit Expo! Try-Outs and Appearances Scheduled!

American Gladiators at TheFitExpo
The AMERICAN GLADIATORS In Person
at The Los Angeles FitExpo on
SATURDAY and SUNDAY

Come and meet the stars of television’s hottest show, NBC’s smash hit THE AMERICAN GLADIATORS!

TEST YOURSELF BY TRYING OUT TO BECOME A CONTESTANT!

CONTESTANT TRY-OUTS 10AM TO 4PM SATURDAY AND SUNDAY at The Los Angeles FitExpo, HALL A Los Angeles Convention Center You must be a Los Angeles FitExpo ticket holder to try-out.

Click below for details, rules and regs and GOOD LUCK!

CLICK: NBC-AMERICAN GLADIATORS

NBC’s American Gladiators Storm The 2008 Los Angeles FitExpo™ Looking for Worthy Opponents for Season Two

(Los Angeles, Calif…January 31, 2008)  Tryouts for season two of NBC’s hit series, American Gladiators, will be held at California’s largest and best-known fitness event, The Los Angeles FitExpo, Saturday, February 16 and Sunday February 17 at the Los Angeles Convention Center, 1201 South Figueroa Street, West Hall A.  

“While our event attracts all levels of fitness enthusiasts from beginners to professionals, we certainly have our share of the world’s strongest, fastest and most competitive weekend warriors,” said Erin Ferries, Executive Director, The Los Angeles FitExpo. “American Gladiators’ focus on strength and health is right in line with the philosophy of FitExpo.  We look forward to seeing FitExpo attendees on the show next season!”

Several American Gladiators stars will appear at The Los Angeles FitExpo, signing autographs and speaking at the Expo seminar series. Confirmed to date are “Titan” Mike O’Hearn, “Mayhem” Romeo Williams and “Justice” Justice Smith.

To audition for American Gladiators, you must come in workout attire and appropriate footwear. You will be tested on your physical ability in areas such as strength, speed, balance and agility. It is suggested that you bring a workout towel and water as well as a non-returnable photo of yourself with a completed Application. Time is limited and there is no guarantee that everyone will be seen - so come early Tryouts will be held 10 AM – 4 PM Saturday and Sunday, February 16 & 17. American Gladiators audition application and other information can be found at www.nbc.com/casting

The Los Angeles FitExpo sponsors are Bodybuilding.com, Gaspari Nutrition, Iron Man, Home-Gym.com, Subway, GNC, Prolab, Muscle Milk, Flex, Muscle & Fitness and Con-Cret. Media sponsors include Musclemag, Oxygen Magazine, Powerlifting USA, NPC News, and LA Health News.

The Los Angeles FitExpo adult admission tickets are $10 per day or $20 for all three days. Children 12 years and under are $5 per day and under 6 are free. Tickets are available in advance through the FitExpo website, www.thefitexpo.com or at the door. Show hours are Friday, 3 – 7 PM, Saturday, 10 AM – 6 PM and Sunday, 10 AM – 5 PM. On Friday, students with ID are admitted free. Discount coupons are available at participating Los Angeles area Subway, GNC and 24 Hour Fitness locations. Plenty of parking is available. For more information on attending or exhibiting, call (818) 545-0290 or visit www.thefitexpo.com

About “American Gladiators”: Hulk Hogan (“Hogan Knows Best”) and Laila Ali (“Dancing with the Stars”) host "American Gladiators," the iconic competition series, which returns with a fresh modern reinvention for the 21st century. Using splashy twists including special effects, water skills and the latest technology, the classic games will be upgraded with even higher thrills, impact, energy and spectacle!

Celebrating the everyday, true American heroes — weekend warriors who excel and take pride in their physical fitness — 24 contenders will go up against the show’s Gladiators, charismatic and eclectic warriors — in the ultimate David & Goliath battle. As in MGM’s traditional "American Gladiators" franchise, everyday amateur athletes compete against the Gladiators in contests of physical strength and endurance. The series will include such classic events as Joust, The Wall, Hang Tough and the Eliminator along with two brand-new events including Earthquake and Hit & Run. The 12 new Gladiators (six men and six women) are action-adventure stars ready to takedown the everyday challengers with hard knocks and explosive attitudes.

Thanks,

Your friends at The Los Angeles FitExpo

"California’s Largest Fitness Expo is working ’round the clock to deliver an amazing weekend for YOU on February 15 to 17, 2008 at the world famous Los Angeles Convention Center.

Check out the latest advertisement and this year we are proud to add several new major competitions including “Evolution”, a 15 cage fight event to be held LIVE! Saturday February 16th, 2008 at the Los Angeles Convention Center.

Click to view larger version.

The “MAIN EVENT” will feature U.S. HWT sensation Chase Gormley, (Currently 4 - 0) who is set for a collision course with Brazilian Native & HWT Champion Marcelo “The Cat” De’Galvao (Currently 5-1). Order tickets soon & receive a FREE EVENT T-SHIRT. Every ticket for “Evolution” includes FREE admission to The Los Angeles FitExpo. So come early and show us your Fight ticket and you are in the FitExpo for FREE!

Evolution tickets are very limited, so log on to http://www.gladiatorchallenge.com and get them while you can!  For full details on all the competitions, activities, exhibits and seminars at The Los Angeles FitExpo, click: www.thefitexpo.com

Click to view larger version.

Here’s the latest full page advertisement: look for it in national fitness and bodybuilding magazines and CLICK HERE to visit the official FitExpo site for the latest updates on the event. Thanks for your continued support.

Click to view larger version.

You are invited to join the fun of California’s Number One Fitness Expo as TheFitExpo comes to The Los Angeles Convention Center on February 15-17, 2008. We have tons more space than previous years and we’re expanding with new events (11 major competitions are set), lots more exhibitors, and a great program of free speakers and seminars. Spread the word and bring your friends and help us keep on growing!

TheFitExpo’s line-up of guest speakers and seminars is something we’re most proud of. Along with the fun of watching many of the world’s greatest athletes compete, wandering through the exhibit hall (and grabbing tons of free gifts), and maybe even trying to win some cash yourself in our Fittest Couple Contest or MaxReps competitions ($4500 CASH is there for you to win) we want attendees to have the opportunity to learn from superstar experts in training, nutrition, life extension, and overall well-being. All the classes are FREE to anyone attending The Los Angeles FitExpo, and we already have 20 classes set.

We’re happy to announce that Two-Time Mr. Olympia JAY CUTLER returns to headline a special seminar called “Getting To The Top and Staying There”. Other speakers include USC’s Head Strength and Conditioning Coach CHRIS CARLISLE, former Editor in Chief of Muscle and Fitness, DR. TOM DETERS, IFBB Pro Rookie of the Year PHIL “The Gift” HEATH, one of the world’s leading experts in childhood obesity MICHAEL TORCHIA, and from television, The IFL Sabres Headcoach KEN YASUDA.

Click to view larger version.

Returning to TheFitExpo are two of our most popular speakers, DR. DEL MILLERS, who shows us how to cook up great nutrition filled meals in ten minutes and actor ROLAND KICKINGER who will speak on his new mentoring program. You’ll meet TROY COLLINS, President of The US Sumo Federation, HERB DEAN, Mixed Martial Artist and referee, and DARREN LEVIN, founder of the Krav Maga Association of America.

And that’s just the start…

Visit www.thefitexpo.com for the full run-down of speakers, events and competitions. We’re working round the clock to bring Los Angeles a fantastic weekend like no other! Get motivated, get inspired, get going to The Los Angeles FitExpo: only 50 days to go!

Are you competing at The Los Angeles FitExpo 2008? We’re looking for great competitors who are media friendly, know how to speak in front of the cameras, and have good human interest stories that would interest press. If that’s YOU please contact us at: info@thefitexpo.com and we’ll get back to you. Make sure to tell us which town or city you live in. Thanks and good luck!”

Thanks,

Your friends at The Los Angeles FitExpo 2008
February 15-18, 2008
The Los Angeles Convention Center

Editor’s Note: Don’t miss BB.com’s 2008 Iron Man Coverage.

National Fitness Productions and Iron Man Magazine are proud to announce that the 2008 FitExpo, held February 15-17, will relocate to the world famous Los Angeles Convention Center to allow for continued growth both in the size and scope of the 4th year event event, which has become California’s largest and best known fitness weekend.

With the change in venue comes a new name for the weekend to reflect its location and premiere importance in the fitness field. The event will be known as The Los Angeles FitExpo. Now housed in Southern California’s most prestigious venue, The Los Angeles FitExpo will capitalize on its previous success and more fully present to the world the fact that Los Angeles is truly the center of fitness, health, diet, strength sport, and life extension. Erin Ferries, Executive Director of The Los Angeles FitExpo and John Balik of Iron Man Magazine stated, "We thank all of our previous sponsors, exhibitors and 12,000 attendees that made the 2007 event a cornerstone upon which we can now pump up 2008 to monstrous proportions."

Many of the world’s greatest bodybuilders will compete at the 19th annual Iron Man Pro, the biggest professional bodybuilding contest on the West Coast and the only pro show in Los Angeles, the mecca of the sport. A live webcast of the contest will be provided by Bodybuilding.com.

Other contests held during The Los Angles FitExpo 2008 include the NPC Women’s Figure Competition (the world’s loveliest & fittest women on-stage), the All-American Strongman Challenge (the world’s strongest men vie for $10,000 in cash prizes in a series of contests), the Fittest Couple Contest ($2500 and a national magazine photo layout go to the winners), the Scot Mendelson Bench Press Classic, the USPF American Cup Powerlifting, the Fit Expo Benchpress and Deadlift Challenge, and the MaxReps Competitions (offering attendees the chance to win cash in a series of strength competitions). The 2008 edition is also proud to welcome the premiere of new major events including EVOLUTION, a 15 MMA Cage Fight Card from Gladiator Challenge on Saturday night, The Operation Fitness “Teen Strength and Fitness Challenge”, and The Gracie FitExpo Nationals hosted by the legendary Gracie Family of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu fame.

The Los Angeles FitExpo will feature over 200 Exhibits offering the latest in cutting edge fitness and health products and services. Vendors are coming from around the world to participate with tons of free samples and giveaways available. The Los Angeles FitExpo 2008 is also pleased to offerattendees a full array of complimentary seminars and demonstrations covering all aspects of fitness, health, strength sport, and nutrition.

From fitness pro to those just getting started: The Los Angeles FitExpo has it all. At $10 a day it is the best bargain around! CLICK HERE TO GO TO www.thefitexpo.com.

PUT YOUR PASSION TO WORK FOR YOU!

We’re looking for a marketing professional (one to two years experience) to join TheFitExpo team (and our parent company that runs all sorts of events nationwide). Candidates should be innovative, energetic and knowledgeable about on-line campaigns and street level promotions. Office is in Glendale, California and prospective applicants must live in the Los Angeles area. Benefits/pension, great place to work as company interacts with most Hollywood studios and fitness businesses. Send your resume to gary@thefitexpo.com.

TheFitExpo Weekend Pumps Up to The Los Angeles Convention Center in 2008

National Fitness Productions and Iron Man Magazine today announced that the 2008 FitExpo will relocate to The Los Angeles Convention  Center to continue to allow for growth both in the size and scope of the  event, which has become California’s largest and best known fitness weekend.  The 2008 dates will be February 15-17.

Erin Ferries of National Fitness Productions said "After four years of huge growing crowds and overlapping special events we really needed to go to a larger venue for our weekend. The move to The Los Angeles Convention Center allows us exactly what we need to expand and add additional programming and competitions."

John Balik of Iron Man Magazine noted "The Pasadena Center has been a gracious host for TheFitExpo these past four years. Judging by the overflowing crowds, particularly on Saturday, it’s been clear that Southern California fitness enthusiasts are looking to us to allow our sold out expo floor and stage  presentations to grow."

With the change in venue comes a new name for the weekend to reflect its location more accurately. The event will now be known as The Los Angeles FitExpo.

Many of the world’s greatest bodybuilders will compete at the 19th annual IRONMAN PRO, the biggest professional bodybuilding contest on the West Coast and the only pro show in Los Angeles, the mecca of the sport.

Other contests held at the Expo include the Gaspari Nutrition Women’s Figure Competition (the world’s loveliest & fittest women on-stage), the MET-Rx All American Strongman Challenge (the world’s strongest men vie for $10,000 in cash prizes in a series of contests), the Scot Mendelson Bench Press Classic, the NxLabs Fittest Couple Contest ($2500 and a national magazine photo layout go to the winners) and the VPX MaxReps Competitions (offering attendees the chance to win cash in a series of strength competitions).

The Los Angeles FitExpo will feature 200 Exhibits offering the latest in cutting edge fitness and health products and services. Vendors are coming from around the world to participate with tons of free samples and giveaways available.

Throughout the weekend attendees can take part in a full array of complimentary seminars and demonstrations covering all aspects of fitness and nutrition.

This ‘Thank You’ message was sent out from TheFitExpo.com just a few days ago, and posted here with permission:

"This past weekend brought beautiful weather and the biggest and best FitExpo yet!  Thousands of fitness fans made the scene  coming to Pasadena to enjoy the exhibitors, contest, demos, and seminars.

Our congratulations to all the winners of the different competitions and thanks to all who made the trip to be on hand.  Complete video and pic coverage of the event will be available soon at thefitexpo.com.

Look for an announcement soon on next year’s date and location.

Thanks,

The TheFitExpo Team"

The Iron Man and FitExpo video clips keep rollin’ courtesy of Ron Avidan (GetBig.com), Lonnie Teper (Ironmanmagazine.com), GraphicMuscle.com, and me, Issac Hinds (Liftstudios.com)!

Check out these video clips to satisfy your need for more expo coverage and hilarity!

Vyotech After-Party
Lisa Marie Bickels
J.C. Lopez & LT: Arnold Predictions
Lonnie Teper’s Birthday Party
Weight Guessing
NPC Figure Competitor, Maryjo Cooke
Muscle Milk Shots
Rick Collins Legal Expert
Vyotech Booth
Cathy LeFrancois
Monica Brant!
SAN

Stay tuned on Monday for even more!  These videos (and more - a total of 36 now!) are also available here:

http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/2007ironman_blogvideopreviews.htm

We’ve added 12 new FitExpo video clips since yesterday, including some footage of Jay Cutler, Tanji Johnson, Amy Villa-Nelson, Chris Cormier, the Sabres (IFL fighting team), BSN booth coverage, etc.

Haven’t seen them yet?  Well, what are you waiting for…??

http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/2007ironman_blogvideopreviews.htm

Don’t forget to check out ‘The Eye of FitSights’ for their hilarious review of Iron Man & TheFitExpo from this past weekend, and a good description of what I call ‘Booth Anxiety.’   LOL

Link:

http://www.fitsights.com/blog/2007/02/ironman-fitexpo-recap.html

Courtesy of Ian L. Sitren (SecondFocus), here’s a photo from today’s FitExpo at what arguably is the best booth on the premises!

(Click on the photo for a larger version.)

Our highly esteemed Hind-ender, Isaac Hinds, and GetBig.com Guru, Ron Avidan, are on the scene at TheFitExpo and the Iron Man this weekend in Pasadena, CA - and they sent over these video clips for your viewing pleasure!

Take a peek:

Nicole Rollolazo @ The FitExpo - click here for the downloadable QuickTime version (10.5 MB)

Learn more about Nicole at NicoleFitness.com.

Max Muscle Gym & The ‘Bob Bowl’ @ Venice - click here for the downloadable QuickTime version (23.2 MB)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GeOVgo1i0kE