Power Eating
Lauren Jacobsen
BSc. (Biochemistry)
Lauren received a degree in biochemistry from Trent University in Ontario, Canada where she studied creatine and its effects on sport performance. After graduating, Lauren decided to use her biochemistry background to develop performance-enhancing supplements for many of the top supplement companies in the industry. Lauren also practices what she preaches and has competed in bodybuilding and figure competitions throughout the world. In fact, Lauren placed 1st at the Canadian Natural Nationals, qualifying to compete at the IFBB Women’s World Championships in Spain as part of Team Canada! Lauren’s also a regular contributor to Inside Fitness. She’s also the co host of the hit TV show “Body Fuel” where she presents viewers with the proper use of sports supplements for enhancing athletic performance. Lauren will arm you with the latest research on novel ingredients, delivery systems and of course new product releases. If there’s something that works or is a downright scam, Lauren will be the first to report on it!
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Training For Bodybuilding vs. Figure
QUESTION: Lauren, what’s the difference between training for female bodybuilding vs. figure?
ANSWER: After watching a female figure contest and a female bodybuilding contest, you’ll easily be able to point out the many visual differences between these two sports. Figure competitors draw on their femininity and are judged on their stage presence as a major part of the necessary criteria to win. They’re jewelled, perfectly coiffed, muscled Barbie dolls, complete with five-inch stilettos! Female bodybuilders are judged on their muscular development, symmetry, and definition. The interesting part is that many figure competitors train hard like female bodybuilders to build up their physiques. When it comes to upper body training, figure competitors focus on similar rep ranges (8–12 reps) to build muscle, just like bodybuilders. One major difference in upper body training is that female bodybuilders will focus on developing each and every muscle, while figure focuses on developing round shoulders and a V-taper in the back that flows nicely into a tiny waist. Probably one of the biggest differences between figure and bodybuilding training is leg development. Female bodybuilders desire the X-frame, which means they can train legs hard and heavy to develop quad sweeps and super-tight glutes. But this look doesn’t translate well for figure. Although some quad sweep is nice, a V-frame is more desirable; a long, lean and toned muscular leg creates length onstage and decreases bulk in the overall frame. Figure leg training is focused on high rep ranges (20–25 repetitions), supersetting, and lots of intense cardio.
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