A Day In The Life Of Fouad...

BLOG

2010-12-24T14:35:00.002-05:00

Hey all I just wanted you to know I am signed on with Weider and am doing all my blogging on their site now. You can check it out here, sorry I didn't tell you guys sooner I wasn't neglecting my fans. Thank you all for reading, Merry Xmas and Happy Holidays to all of you!

http://www.flexonline.com/fouad_abiad_blog_intro/news/1496

Sacrifice Without Regret,
Fouad 'Hoss' Abiad

11 Weeks Out

2010-12-06T08:28:00.004-05:00

Time is flying by, I feel like just yesterday I was 16 weeks out and 285lbs! Well its a little over five weeks later and I have dropped about 15lbs and it feels like the show is around the corner. I have begun to take care of some of the odds and ends for the day of the show now because I know myself, as I get closer I'll get more retarded and won't be able to think straight. I take care of things like show contracts, membership status, hotels, flights, etc. now so I don't need to worry later.
Things with Weider have been going smoothly, I know you guys like my blog over here but I have also started blogging on the FLEXONLINE.COM site so if you notice these blogs getting shorter and shorter you know where to find me! The videos I have planned will be airing throughout the next 11 weeks on FLEXONLINE.COM as well. There will be about five of them, mostly training but I think I'll throw in a couple lifestyle ones just to give you guys a more in depth look at the my life as I get ready for the biggest show of my pro career!
So I can tell you that have followed my blog for a while, some of the craziness that I am known for when dieting has begun. For you new to my blog, its nothing really crazy, just impulsive and obsessive behaviour. The other morning I woke up at like 5am starving and couldn't go back to sleep, so I laid there for a bit trying to crash again but wasn't happening. I finally decided to get up and hit the shower and get ready for morning cardio. Just before I jumped in the shower I decided, "I think I'm going to shave my head", a normal thought progression..lol. One minute on the way to the gym, the next minute, taking the clippers to my melon..lol. Anyway, so I did and it looks okay, my gf likes it which is good enough for me. So the next time you see me the mohawk may be gone and the new almost bald Fouad will be there.
Aside from the mental behaviour things in the gym have been going very smoothly. I was getting some therapy done on my arms, they were getting to the point where the tendinitis was so bad I was having trouble contracting them. That's normal amongst most pros who have been at it for a while. The wear and tear of years and years of pounding heavy weight takes its toll on the body. Fortunately for me I have two therapists, Alvin Brown(out of Pickering) and Dave Cowie(out of Windsor) who both do an amazing job keeping me healthy and strong in the gym. They have their work cut out for them because BBing's not easy but regardless they fix me up and keep me ready for battle!
I wanted to apologize to you guys for not getting in a blog last weekend, it was a crazy weekend and I was guest posing so it just took a lot out of me and I never got to the blog...won't happen again...I hope. The guest posing went off without a hitch, the London, Ontario fans (almost hometown really) were amazing in their support for me and all the kind words. There is nothing better than guest posing for fans who really appreciate what you're doing and all the hard work you have put into it so I wanted to thank all who attended and say I was honoured to be the guest at that show! In the same show I had a client, Stephan Caron who had taken about a ten yr layoff from BBing. I was more than happy when he came to me and said he wanted to get back onstage. We got started immediately on bringing him in at his best ever. Unfortunately Stephan did not take who first place which was very disappointing to me since I really wanted that for him. He did although take home 2nd in the Masters and 3rd in the Middle Weight so it was a great day for him after ten years off! Next time we'll get the win!
Okay guys that's about it for me, check me out at FLEXONLINE.COM I will be blogging there twice a week. My blogs there will be more about the mechanics of what I do and not so much about my personal life so those of you who want workout tips or food tips check me out there!

Sacrifice Without Regret,
Fouad 'Hoss' Abiad

13 Weeks Out

2010-11-22T00:55:00.002-05:00

Getting closer and closer each week, the date seems like its approaching fast now and I am ready for it! This past week has been a busy week for me. I'm wrapping up a webinar that I am holding this Wednesday, November 24th for a live Q&A for all fans interested in stepping up their game. It has been quite an effort on my part to try and figure out how all of this works. Buying the software, learning how to use and then most of all marketing and actually putting on the Webinar (seminar on the web) is going to be new to me but I am excited to interact with the fans LIVE!
My girlfriend said to me 'you don't seem so focused on the show'? Which I thought was a little ridiculous at first but then realized what she was talking about. I have been up day and night trying to give back to fans with Newsletters, blogs, tips of the week, updating my members section and different items thrown in like the webinar, actually training with people and so forth. It has been a little taxing mentally and this will be the last week for it. After this week my attention will turn 100% to the show coming up in three months, the FLEX Classic.
I am going to start scaling back, not because I don't enjoy giving back or doing interactive things online but it has taken away from my physical game. The time I could be spending stretching, preparing mentally, posing, etc., is not being utilized the way it should. So, I love you all but get in to the Webinar this week because after this one I will be taking some time for myself to really sharpen my game to a point and bring home some hardware in February.
My weight is now around 275lbs and feeling tighter than ever before at this weight and in all honesty I think I may hit the stage around 255-260lbs which will be about 10lbs heavier than last year. Honestly I think all 10lbs is in my legs so I hope the competition is ready for whats coming down the road!!!
My workouts have been solid and I am training relatively injury free and really trying to still add size while getting shredded. Nothing has changed in my workouts except possibly the speed and intensity. I am still doing all the hardcore things, deadlifts, squats, military press and all free weight movements. My goal is to lift heavy and intense all the way into the show because I feel thetas what keeps you growing or at least helps you keep a full, healthy muscle leading into the show.
I am guest posing this weekend in London, Ontario at the London Championships and I am getting very excited to hit the stage. There are going to be a lot of friends at this show since it is close to my hometown and I think that has actually got me more excited than normal. I thought to myself when I woke up today how lucky I am to have made the choices I made in my life. In a few days I get to hit the stage in front of many friends and fans and put on a show for them. It may seem insignificant to most in the business because well, its just another guest appearance. For me its not. I guess I am learning to stop and take note of whats going on around me instead of just blindly going through day to day without seeing or hearing anything or anyone. I think I am blessed to be in a position to have so many good people around me, willing to train with me, willing to push me, encourage me and root for me to get to the top.
Bpdybuilding is usually a very selfish sport and I'm not saying I'm not guilty of that but I am saying taking the time to see whats around you can change you. How could I have imagined ten years ago then I would be coming back to the same stage one day as the 'entertainment'..lol. I never imagined it back then and sometimes now I still don't believe its real. All I can say is I am very thankful for the choices in my life that have brought me to this moment. I am very thankful for the people in my life that have supported me all along the way and I am very thankful to those people that I will see on Saturday cheering me on or just are there to be good friends.

Sacrifice Without Regret,
Fouad 'Hoss' Abiad

14 Weeks Out

2010-11-15T22:02:00.002-05:00

Things are on point this week! Everythings going smooth, weight is down, strength is up and the physique is looking more and more complete everyday. For some reason I am not feeling very anxious this time around, I'm feeling confident about my chances at winning in February. I really feel like this offseason has been good for my physique. My legs are up, my stomach feels tighter, calves came up and back and shoulders are wider believe it or not.
Last week was a great week in the gym. I had a great chest workout and filmed it for all of you, just go to my website www.fouadhossabiad.com and sign into the members section to check it out. 405lbs on the incline bench seems to be routine now and the week before I even did 455lbs for four reps so things are really clicking. I think the biggest news had to come on leg day though. It was my first time free weight back squatting since my leg injury. Man, I breezed through 405lbs like it was baby-weight! Banged out 12 solid reps like never before, legs felt great, no tenderness, no friction, just smooth and powerful!
I have made a big change on the career front as well. As some of you know I left MD about two months ago and I have turned the page and made the move to FLEX. I am now a Weider athlete at least for a little while anyway but I am very proud to be part of history. I hope it becomes a more long term agreement but i guess that's up to me and my placings. There is a bump in the road though as all of us experience some get hit harder than others. My Muscletech contract comes to an end in three months and I am looking for a change. They have decided to let my contract expire and I am a little excited to be honest. MT is a great company and they treated me great but at the end of the day its hard being part of a ten man team. In leaving I have a chance now to really grow with a company. There are some ideas I have in mind but like I said I have three months left so I will let you guys know as soon as I know!
So that's about it for this week. I guess the point I wanted to get across was that there are always bumps in the road. We all deal with issues, problems, adversity, some not so well and some deal with it like its nothing. I had a couple clients this week that were down in the dumps about some issues but I think its because sometimes we think we're alone. None of us are alone, some make it look like nothing is wrong on the outside but there are always things they need to deal with. Just because you don't know about their issues it doesn't mean there are none there.
The point is, life is always going to be hard if you let it. You have to role with the punches sometimes and see what you can turnover on the other side of things. I found out a few days ago that MT wasn't going to resign me and I honestly was upset for about an hour. After that hour passed I got on the phone and now I see it as an opportunity. Nothing can stop you if you don't want it to. You are in control of your life and the things you choose in life are the things that are coming to you. I choose to get off my ass and find a company that's going to believe in me and for the long term. I'm going to find a company who sees the same vision for me that I see in my own mind. When I find that I will be on top of the world and all the pieces of the puzzle will be there. How are you dealing with your adversity? Are you letting it beat you down? Are you giving up? Get off your ass and take control of your life, nothing and no one person can stop you unless you let them!

Sacrifice Without Regret,
Fouad 'Hoss' Abiad

15 Weeks Out

2010-11-01T22:57:00.002-04:00

Okay I apologize for being a couple days late but I'm just trying to get my bearings with the new diet and being so busy all of a sudden. Things are going well although last week was a bit of a roller coaster week with my weight. I am currently sitting at a pretty lean 285lbs and feeling very confident about my look come Feb and Mar.
My legs used to be a week point and after smashing them all year with different techniques, different splits and different volumes I feel like they have finally responded the way they were supposed to. The other day I was actually posing with some friends and the look I had was actually a little bottom heavy to be honest. That day my legs were more impressive than my upper body and THAT has never happened unless it was after leg training. They are taking on a new dimension almost, the sweep is better on the outside and the inner thickness has really volumized my legs.
Like I said at the top of this my weight was on a bit of a roller coaster ride this week. After about three days on the diet I dropped about 10lbs (water and glycogen) and even though in my head I new it was nothing to be concerned about it actually threw me a little. I always drop about ten pounds when I start dieting but this year I thought since I was more lean going into the diet it wouldn't happen. I guess the part I didn't think of was, more muscle means more water in the body and more water to lose. Either way the strength is good and actually getting better so I know the muscle is still growing. Anyway after I spoke with Hany (my trainer) and we increased the food and tried to fill me a bit I have gained back five and am losing nice and slow now.
The cardio is getting easier this week and I assume week after week it will continue to do so. I can't lie though I am doing 40min on the stepmill and this morning around the 36min mark I had to stop and catch my breath..lol I know its embarrassing, I'm supposed to be a pro athlete but like I told a friend earlier in the week, I am a 'strength athlete', we are different..lol
Last weeks blog talked about going for your dreams and not giving in to social pressures or anything else. This kind of falls in line with that. For about three years now the Ontario Physique Association has been asking me to put on a bodybuilding show in Windsor, Ontario(my hometown) and I have declined. Not because I didn't want to but in all honesty I didn't think I had what it took to put on a major production like that.
This year one of my best friends and training partners Paul Lauzon came to me saying that they asked him to do it and to see if I would join him. The good news is I have finally decided to take on the challenge. Paul convinced me that we could do it and we have given ourselves enough time (Oct. 8, 2011) to really make it an outstanding show. Its going to be called the Fouad Abiad Classic and I have plans to make it the biggest show of the year in Ontario!
I really think bodybuilding has given me everything in my life. That doesn't always mean material things or tons of money (even though that's coming..lol). I mean more about a sense of knowing myself and knowing what I am capable of. So many people have so much in them but just aren't willing to take that chance. Are you really living your life? Is there something out there you want to do that you just can't quite bring yourself to grab hold of?
I say go for it. Bodybuilding has taught me a system above all else that will hold true in ANY instance in life. For example, when your getting ready for a bodybuilding show you do your homework. You take your time, you have a long offseason, you fine tune your physique until you know its just right and then you unveil it! Everything in life follows the same guidelines...for me anyway. When I decided to compete in my first show (ironic enough it was the Windsor Cup), I gave myself a little over a year to take the time and really bring a great package and I won that show. This show I am putting on is no different. I am giving myself a little over a year to fine tune this beast so on the day of the show all I have to do is open the doors and the event will be amazing!
Sure it took me a push from a friend but now I am that friend and I am pushing you. Find your passion and follow the steps. Take the time to really understand what you're getting into and then fine tune it before you show the world. My dad taught me one thing in life. He never cared what I did for work or what I chose as a final career, all he told me was if you do something do it with all your heart and believe in yourself.

Sacrifice Without Regret,
Fouad 'Hoss' Abiad

16 Weeks Out

2010-10-25T15:05:00.003-04:00

The time has finally come, time to drop everything, put my head down and go to work. I haven't stepped on stage since Aug 2009 and I almost feel like I have forgotten how to diet..lol..I know it'll come back quick though.

I am on day 2 of the diet and am already feeling great. There is a ton of food in my diet so I don't even know if I can call it that. I'm eating over 5000 calories all from clean food and somehow it really feels like I'm gonna get bigger as I get leaner going into this thing. As it stands now I have already added about 10lbs of contest weight to my frame and if I can gain another 5lbs during this diet its gonna be lights out for the competition!

So that's all the positive side of things for you but surely there must be a downside to dieting right? Well here it is. Since I have gained about 10lbs like a mentioned, cardio has become IMPOSSIBLE..lol. I have no idea how someone Ronnie or Jay's size gets through 45min on the stairs with all that muscle. In all honesty I think I will get used to it in the next week or so but for now it feels like I'm walking up stairs with cinder blocks attached to my legs!

Being this heavy and most of it being muscle is much harder than when I was a fatter 290lbs starting my diets. The stepmill is no joke and being on it for 45min is a true test of how bad you want to work. The extra muscle mass is not only heavier but also takes more oxygen to keep it fuelled. I think I'm going to buy a small oxygen tank and strap it to my back for the next week or so...lol.

Alright, enough whining, I had to get it out though. I don't want you guys to think I'm all smiles. The best part about the diet is now you all will get to see the real me. Its 16 weeks out now and I'm still cheery but as the weeks dwindle down you will be reading a much different blog say around the four week mark. I become obsessive about everything, I become a shop-aholic, I become agitated, intense and powerful all at the same time. I can't even explain it I guess you will all have to follow along for the next four months and see for yourself.

So on to other business. The website is finally done, I guess you could say that. Its launched but I still have some things I want to fix up here and there but the basic set up will not change from here on out. For a while anyway. Please get on and check it out at www.fouadhossabiad.com and sign up for my free newsletter and get in for the free members section while you can. Only the first 1000 members are free!

Enough of that. I went out for dinner last week with some friends and it was brought to my attention that one of my friends was having some trouble with BBing and what its all about. I guess he is torn about what the point really is. I just wanted to touch on this for a minute before I go. I have been through many days in my career when I sat and thought 'what am I doing, do I really want to be doing this?'. Those days are the tough ones when you contemplate everything. Why am I eating all this food? Why do I have to drink all these powders? Why do I have to go to the gym instead of going out? Why am I sitting here in pain from a leg workout and I can barely walk?..okay skip the last one I actually love that feeling..lol.

Point is, we all have bad days, sometimes even weeks where things aren't going right and it seems like you just aren't doing what you're supposed to in life. The way I see it, everyone goes through those times in any serious endeavour they take on in life. The business man who is away from his family for weeks at a time, the office worker who is working four hours past there shift getting home at 10pm, the MMA fighter who can't win a fight, the actor or actress who can't get a gig, the salesperson who just doesn't want to go out for another drink but knows its part of the job. I know all of these people and they all wrestle with the same issues we do from time to time.

Bodybuilders and people who are around bodybuilding I have found like to isolate themselves, like only we go through these hardships or somehow ours are different from other people. Sure, our chosen profession/hobby is harder than any other on earth but trust me, other people are going through the same hardships in their own life. Its fine to sit and contemplate your choices in life and its always okay to have a bad day, we all have them. What I find to be sad is when outside influences take you away from what you really love. When you let those bad days get a hold of you and take you off course.

If you love going to the gym, if you love eating all your meals and feeling healthy, if you don't want to go to the club every weekend, there is nothing wrong with you. Don't let that crazy uncle tell you just because your eating chicken and broccoli and not cake that you're crazy. Next time that happens ask them why its fine that their guzzling a beer while golfing at 9am? Or why its ok to light a big fat cigar and sit in a smoke filled room eating Cheetos just because your playing cards?

What we do is not 'normal'(who knows what normal is anymore anyway), but its what we do because we love it. If you have a dream, a goal or you just want to feel good and live life on your own terms, don't let anyone tell you otherwise. Deep down we are all a little nuts, we just choose to show it in different ways. For me, its painting myself dark, oiling myself up, dawning my nicest banana hammock, getting up in front of thousands of people and showing what they can achieve with a little elbow grease. (that visuals gotta tug at your heart strings..lol)

Sacrifice Without Regret,

Fouad 'Hoss' Abiad

One More Week

2010-10-17T21:22:00.003-04:00

The countdown is on and I am excited as can be. Funny, I woke up today feeling fat, sluggish and shitty (even tho I don't actually think I'm fat) and thought to myself 'I can't wait to start dieting!'. Well be careful what you wish for....I just spoke to Hany (my trainer) and we start the diet Saturday!

Its about time because honestly I can't take it anymore. I actually weighed myself after about three meals today and the scale said 303lbs!! I am ready, Hany and I have calculated everything this year. Every training session, every meal, every therapy session and its all going to pay off now in the next 16 weeks!

Okay so I know the lingering question, what am I going to eat this week since I have to start dieting on Saturday? Honestly in the past my mind was like a light switch when it came to diet. I would eat as much crap as I could and then come the day of my diet I would flip the switch and that's it, not another piece of anything! This time though I think I have been in the offseason so long I have had everything I could possibly want and now I am ready to just start. I don't need any last minute binges or garbage meals I just want to bring it!

Okay, I'm not going to lie there is a couple things. Some friends are taking me out for my Bday on Wednesday and I think I am probably going to enjoy some good cheesecake or something along those lines after a big fat steak, maybe a T-Bone! Some other friends want to take me out on Thursday so I think that one will be my last all you can eat sushi outing and I want to make it a good one....I hope they're ready for me..lol.

Alright back to reality. I had a great week of training still benching 405lbs on the incline for fun, got some smith squats in again with a little tenderness but feeling good. I was also able to hit six plates a side on the hack squat this week so the strength in that exercise is really coming back fast. Legs overall are just coming back better and better each week.

I have been using a foam roller at home most days. I like to roll out my quads when they aren't too sore to flush them and I also have been using it on my right lat to keep it from getting too bound up....Hany's advice. I'm seeing a new therapist in the Windsor area in conjunction with Alvin Brown's therapy. I needed someone close to home so I could get two sessions a week, Dave Cowie is my Osteopath in Windsor and really seems to have the same work ethic as Alvin. I am confident I am in great hands with both!

I did have a minor set back this week. Doing DB curls yesterday I actually felt a sharp pain shoot down my arm. It almost like a tendinitis pain but I think with some therapy, home therapy and just being diligent in its recovery I should be fine. No worries all, I am going to be 100% come February and like I said in one of my FB status updates, I'm bringin it in such a way they're going to change the name to Fouadruary..lol..its my month!

Enough bullshitting..lol...life is good, training is good. Seeing things in my mind before actually putting them into effect is really working out well for me. I find myself bangin out weights in the gym with only one thing in mind and that's my look come four months time. I find myself resting between sets but not really present...I can't hear anyone or anything, it feels like its just me and the weights and my thoughts. What are my thoughts?

This is a hard one to answer but I'll try. When I'm sitting there in between sets waiting to do the next set, waiting to give it everything I have, I'm thinking of the show. I can see the person standing next to me on stage, see the person on the other side of me. I can hear the judge calling out each pose, I can hear the guy next to me breathing heavy wanting a rest while I'm getting stronger. I can smell the Protan, hear the background music, hear the noise coming from the crowd. I can feel everything as if I was there seeing it clearly, living it in my mind so come that day standing up there I know what to expect. I know I'm going to bring it, I know the guy next to me will be shocked that I am so prepared it seems like a walk in the park! My strength will make him weaker, I will TAKE his energy and make it my own. All of these things flash through my mind in the 60-90 seconds that it takes me to get ready to trash the muscle just one more time...

Sacrifice Without Regret,

Fouad 'Hoss' Abiad

Keep and eye for the new website which should be up in the next day or so www.thefouadabiad.com.

Firing On All Cylinders

2010-10-12T01:04:00.002-04:00

First I want to apologize to you all for being a day late. It was Canadian Thanksgiving yesterday and I did indulge myself just a little so I guess it made me a little lazy....but I would never leave you all hangin so here is this weeks instalment.

Last week was an amazing week all around for me. Training, career, rehab, all facets were a go and all I had to do was enjoy the ride. As most of you know by now I am rehabbing a quad tear that happened a few months ago now and things have really been coming along. Alvin Brown has been doing the deepest tissue work I have ever gotten on my physique. I gotta be honest I really dread going to see him every week because the pain he inflicts is so bad I leave like I was just in a bar fight. The positive side of that is the effects in the gym.

Last week I was able to bring back some of my old school strength because when you aren't hampered by injury you can really kill it in the gym. I am back to curling 80lb DB's and I was doing 405lb Incline Presses for a clean 8reps. The biggest achievement of the week had to come on leg day. Not only are my Leg Press and Hack Squat numbers up (12plates a side and 5plates a side, not crazy but getting better every week) but to top it off I was able to squat for the first time since July. Mind you it wasn't a free squat, it was a smith machine squat but regardless I was able to get up to three plates for a solid 12 reps. I think I could have gotten to 18-20 if I was completely healthy but I'm minding my rehab and checking my ego.

Career wise things have really been great. MD posted a new leg workout video we did back in September and it was received with overwhelming support from the MD fans! Someone also took a progress pic from my FB and posted it over at MD which was also received very well. To hear some BBing fans put me in the first tier category in BBing and rank me amongst the best in the world really makes me proud. Now I just have to produce come March.

Not only in my own career are things going well but like most of you know I do online physique coaching. I receive weekly updates from my clients and all of them are really making progress. The offseason athletes are getting bigger and better and the competitive athletes are getting shredded and all is clicking like it should! Nothing makes me feel better than getting an email from a client that is miserable about the diet but is so happy with the way they look, they don't care.

My discipline went out the window last week. I got in a few extra cheat meals knowing I have a guest spot coming up and I am about to shut it down and go completely clean with the food. For some reason and I don't know why lately my crutch has been ribs! Why? I have no idea. I started eating them one day about a month ago and since I have been having them for my cheat once a week and last week cuz I got stupid I had them twice. I mean I guess it could be worse, I guess I could be pounding back ice cream and cake which is complete garbage. Ribs are bad because of the high fat content and the sodium but at least they have quite a bit of protein so its not totally useless. I guess this is what I mean when I tell my clients to find something BBing friendly to cheat with.

On a more personal note, I thought I would share this with you all. Throughout my career people have always asked me, "why are going to all this trouble bodybuilding for such a small gain and no glamour?". I try and explain to them its something in me but there is no way they will ever understand. I think majority of people give up on their dreams somewhere around the age of twelve because someone told them whatever they were thinking was a joke. I can personally admit to that because my original dream in life was to be a race care driver and eventually test drive exotic cars.

Yes, as you all know that didn't happen and now seems comical as I probably can't fit into most of those cars...lol. I was fortunate in life to find another dream as I got into my 20's and yes like race car driving everyone around me said "that's stupid", "its too much work for no money", "you'll never make it, just have some drinks with us", "that's not even a real sport". I have heard it all but at the end of the day its MY dream and that's all that matters.

The point most people don't get is the all of the satisfaction doesn't come from being one of the best bodybuilders in the world. The real satisfaction comes from being able to say I did things my way and I made it work. I didn't have to give in to peer pressure or peoples ignorance, I am my own boss and am drawing out my own journey. No one can say anything to me about my choices because they are all mine and I live with conviction.

Having a dream and reaching for it is the most honorable thing a person can do, no matter what anyone thinks of it. Sure giving in, taking the safe route, sitting behind a desk is also admirable. You can make a great living and you will be accepted into society as the norm but is that all you want. Do you just want to be accepted or do you want people to say "you know what, he did things his way and he's living his dream!". Is money and fame all that matters or is there more to life and more to you?

Don't be scared to go for what you want in life. There are going to be people everywhere waiting to tell you what they think...that its stupid and impossible but the voice in your heart is the only one that matters. When you do something do it with all your heart and accept your decisions as your own. No excuses, no regrets...

Sacrifice Without Regret,

Fouad 'Hoss' Abiad

www.thefouadabiad.com (should be live this week!)

Almost Time

2010-10-03T23:06:00.002-04:00

It has been a long offseason and its still not over yet. I haven't been onstage since August 09 and it is really wearing on me mentally. After I turned pro I have done at least two shows a year for the last four years and this was the first time I sat out. I think the progress I have made over the last 13-14 months are going to be evident when I step on stage in Feb-Mar or at least I hope so anyway.

As most of you know I have had some leg injuries this year but have been diligent in my rehab and very cautious in my return to make sure none of the injuries reoccur. I have been training legs back from my time off for about five weeks straight now, still not squatting but each week that leg press has a little less room on the pins and the same goes for the hack squat.

I have been training legs over at Powerhouse in Detroit Michigan. Its a rough area and a hardcore gym but man they love bodybuilders! That's not a family gym that's for sure, its the closest thing to hardcore around my city so its worth the border crossing! They have an old school hack squat that I swear isn't even oiled up...lol...three plates on this thing feels like six on a new hack. Almost makes you feel like your doing a real squat.

Anyway on to other things. I have an appearance at the Western Ontario show in London, I'm hoping you all will make it...and please be prepared with questions. I usually like to hang out after I get off stage and just shoot the shit with the fans. I'll have DVD's and hopefully some of my new line of clothes with me so you can grab so new HOSS gear!

So I have been cheating a little more than usual this week, I think its because I know I am going to start dieting soon so I am getting in the last little bit of junk before I completely shut it down. I am going to start really cleaning things up after my birthday (oct.15) for the Nov 28th appearance at the Westerns. On Nov.13th I will really shut things down and go into hibernation for the ASC...no more friends, no more cheats, no more family, no more fun.....eat, breath, sleep bodybuilding!

Don't get me wrong tho, I am planning on updating my new website (thefouadabiad.com, coming soon) with videos for you all along the way. Just sign up to be members and follow me in the gym, on the cardio equipment and in my house as I get ready to step up with the big boys in 2011!...its about time...

Interestingly enough I have a couple clients in the Nov 28th Westerns and I am hoping to get them into the winners circle so I can get some good pics with them backstage, since all of us will be in shape it could be fun! My clients are working hard and all you other bbers better be training hard because I'm bring them in 100%. Ontario always has great up and comers it should be a great show!

Before I go I just want to ask all you HOSSAMANIACS...lol...(just joking I'm not that cheese), are you all doing everything you could be doing to achieve your dreams. A while back I realized I only thought I was doing all I could do to be the best I can be until a friend really set me straight. He asked me to sit back and really look at my life and see where I had time available to me? He asked me to sit back and ask myself what can I do to get more out of my life? After taking some time and really pondering what I am doing with myself, I realized I was wasting my opportunities.

People have become conditioned to think that you grow up, get a job and that job pays your bills and that's how you earn your money and that's it. What I have learned is that's not it. That is only one part of it. Truly successful people dip their hands in many pots and take candy from each one ending up with there ultimate fortune. I'm sure a lot of you went to the Jay Cutler seminar this weekend or if not you know who he is (or you should..lol). He is a perfect example of someone who has not sat back on his contract(s). He has decided to dip his hands into everything. Shirt, hats, DVDs, posters, training people, real estate, etc, etc, etc.

The point of all this is do not become complaisant. Never tell yourself, 'that's enough for me'. Always ask for more. Ask yourself, 'what do i have to offer and how can I get more for myself'. 'What more can I do to get more out of life', this way you are never stuck and owe one person anything. That way if someone does you wrong or a boss fires you, you just keep moving because you are in control of your destiny. Are you in control of your destiny and your dreams?

Sacrifice Without Regret,

Fouad 'Hoss' Abiad

Las Vegas

2010-09-27T13:07:00.003-04:00

There was a time in my life when I would have been going to Vegas with nothing in my suit case except some club clothes and money for vodka/sevens…lol. I have realized those days are long gone and may never return…at least while I am bodybuilding.

In contrast this time around my suit case contained, my DVD’s, my T-shirts, pictures to sign, gym clothes an extra bag for food and lastly some comfy clothes to sleep in. I know it sounds like a party..lol

Believe it or not this past weekend was pretty amazing. My girlfriend and I arrived on Thursday for the 45^th Mr.Olympia weekend and from the moment I arrived MuscleTech really showed their appreciation for their athletes.

I was picked up at the airport given tons of merchandise in clothing and gym equipment that I didn’t even ask for. It was just the way MuscleTech operates, I am really grateful to be with the best company in the industry.

Friday morning I hit the expo with all my new MT gear on and was ready for the greatest bodybuilding fans on earth. People kept asking me if they were bothering me, if I was tired, how I could really want to be there all day. Honestly nothing could have been further from the truth. I love being around all the bodybuilding fans, my fans, other pros fans it doesn’t matter.

I was talking to Seth Feroce for most of the weekend and Cedric McMillian and the one thing I realized is we all like being there because not only are we in the sport but we are still major fans of the sport ourselves. We were just like most fans when Phil or Jay would walk in, kind of taken back by there size and shape. It’s a good feeling to be a fan of the sport you are part of, it keeps you grounded and very appreciative of all the fans who aren’t in it except for sheer enjoyment.

MT treated us to dinner at the Mandalay Bay and had front row tickets to prejudging and finals. I have never been to a Mr.O to watch, this was my first time. Sitting front row watching this guys battle it out gave me goose bumps and got me just itching to hit the stage again!!

I would like to congratulate Jay on his 4^th Olympia and Phil on really showing that he has what it takes to be the best one day. Branch is the man also, I have never seen conditioning like that in my life on any human being in person. Maybe there are guys in pics somewhere that are harder but like I said in person I have never seen anything like it! I was also really happy for Dennis Wolf for bringing back his Olympia form and Ronnie Rockel for getting noticed and placed where he deserved. Kudos to the judges, it was a tough show to judge but I personally think they got this one right.

On a final note I realized that drinking and partying don’t really have a place for me anymore. I had every intention of going out on Saturday night and really having some fun since its been so long. After watching Phil, Jay, Branch battling it out I realized it wasn’t important. My purpose in life has changed. My enjoyment doesn’t come from seeing the bottom of a bottle of vodka anymore, my enjoyment is going to come when I can say I am one of the best. Leaving my mark on the sport is more important to me than anything. I am not in this to ‘live the life’ or ‘live the dream’ as some think it should be lived. ‘Living the Dream’ for me, means having people stand and cheer for me when my time is done because they respect the work and mark I have left behind.

Dennis James retired last night at the show and the people stood on their feet for 5-10mins applauding him for his effort and career. He took a chance, didn’t take the safe route in life, decided to chase his dream and he made something of himself. For that I was also on my feet and at the end of the day that is how I will measure my success.

Sacrifice Without Regret,

Fouad ‘Hoss’ Abiad

Ask and You Shall Receive

2010-09-20T20:13:00.002-04:00

Whats goin on everyone? I have been slaving away this week and last week. Ever since I started seeing my new physio therapist things have been booming! I described to you all what new plans I had in store last week and I am still working on them. Very excited to get them going but in the meantime crazy things are happening all around me.

This past week I went to Powerhouse Detroit for a leg workout to be filmed by MD (www.musculardevelopment.com). I love that gym in Detroit and its only about 20min over the border from my home in Windsor, Canada. The general manager there is also a really great guy and said we can come back anytime to train for free, so, that's exactly what we're gonna do.

I was a little worried about my leg workout as I have been for a while. As you all know I had to take about 4-6 weeks off training quads because of injury and this workout we were filming was only my fourth quad workout since I was off. Alvin Brown has been treating me every week and my legs actually felt really good last Friday. Still not going heavy and still not cleared to squat but the workout was still awesome and my legs are still fried three days later!

So that was some good news on the training front but the best news that day came after training was done. One of the guys training near us was a promoter and after seeing me he asked if I would guest pose at his show...'Done', I said. So that's not that crazy you say, everyone guest poses. Okay well on my way out the door I was introduced to the owner's son of all the Powerhouse's in America. I asked if they had one in Canada anywhere only to find out they didn't....I looked at him and said, I have always wanted my own gym with a grin. He knew where I was coming from and the meeting with him and his father is set. Now I'm not saying anything will definitely come from this but being open to all possibilities is a great start.

The next day was the Detroit Pro Show where myself and Shawn Ray were the analysts. I have never been an analyst...at least publicly anyway..lol. It was cool sitting next to the legend shootin the shit and takin care of business. After the prejudge and night show we did a video wrap up which isn't something that comes easy to me but I think I did alright. You can find it on the MD site and judge for yourself...just don't be too harsh :-(

At the show I also met John Simmons which was pretty cool as I also consider him a legend of the sport himself. The nice thing was he actually asked me to guest pose at his show as well and I gladly excepted. Lastly in that same night as if enough good hadn't happened I was approached by one of the pros on stage that night and we discussed me taking him on as a client. I will let you know who it was when it all comes together. All I can tell you is he has a ton of potential and I know I can get him into the top spots!

I wanted to touch on something I thought of this past weekend, it was a realization I guess. All these people are talking about quantum physics, visualization, positive thinking, the book The Secret and so on and how these things can make you great. Well I'm calling bullshit.

Those things are only part of the equation. What they forget to tell you is that all of those things without planning and hard work will get you nothing. The realization I have come to in my own life is just to be open and positive to the idea that your hard work can take you as far as you can see in your mind.

For example; I have been busting my ass the last three weeks more so than ever before with all the new things you read about last week. Constantly on the computer, emailing, planning, studying to become better. Along the road while I am doing these things new opportunities are coming to me and now I am open and ready for them. Without me working like a dog, the new website wouldn't be done, the clothing line wouldn't be started, the new and old clients wouldn't feel taken care of, I would have never met the promoters last weekend, etc., etc, etc. My point is that you have to work hard day in and day out with the ultimate goal always in the front of your mind. You do have to visualize and see it as if its already a part of your life but without ball busting determination and drive the other thoughts are just pretty dreams.

Sacrifice Without Regret,

Fouad 'Hoss' Abiad

Big News Coming Soon

2010-09-13T19:36:00.002-04:00

Ok Hoss fans its taken me some time but I am about to get off my ass and finally make something of myself...lol I have been enjoying the life of a boydbuilder fulltime and really have not started to think about the things I want to leave behind later on.

So what does all this mean? Well for the you guys it means everything! I am currently working on a new website that will be much more interactive. I think my current site is a little out of date and need to step it up and give you all the kind of treatment you deserve.

I also am in the process of coming out with all new merchandise. No more cheesy 'Hoss' shirts although thank you for the emails telling me you like them. This time I am working on clothing that you actually might wear somewhere other than the grocery store and not feel like a scrub. Hats, Beanies, T-Shirts, Sleeveless, Tanks, Hoodies, Jersey Pants and yes even some little tanks for all the female gym rats out there!..lol

Ok, ok, all bodybuilders have there own clothing line and good websites what is so special about this. Well There is some merchandising that I don't think other pros have and thats all the powerlifting gear you could ask for. I am starting out small but am working on lifting straps, elbow sleeves, knee wraps, weight belts, ect. all with my symbol on it (yet to be released!). I am going to make sure companies other companies stay honest by giving you all the best prices for everything!

Ya, ya so there is some merchandise, 'I don't even use a belt' you say? This is just the tip. I have already started my own YouTube channel (www.youtube.com/fouadabiad) and will be adding videos after they are on my website for a bit. See I am adding a membership section to my site and no its not for some price of $10.99 a month. I am giving back to you for free all you will have to do is enter your email and you will be aloud to enter the membership section with photos, videos, blogs, ect.

One of the other things I have been thinking about is Skype Consultations. There will be a payment made for 30min of Skype time for strictly training and nutrition consultation. Here you can ask me personally all your questions about anything regarding the program you are currently on. The price is yet to be determined but I know one thing for sure you can fit a lot of info into 30min.

Finally I am thinking about making my own book on my philosophies about training and diet. It will be an Ebook not long maybe a few pages just outlining what kind of training and diet I have used to get to where I am today. I haven't fully committed to this one yet still waiting to see what the demand will be.

There are a bunch of other ideas I have in mind and over time all of these things will be implemented. I am really about to give this thing my all and make sure you all get the best of me. So far its been a lot of work, I haven't watched TV in 7-8 days really and its getting to me. Anyone who knows me knows that TV is my best friend.

All in all it has been great, traveling down new avenues, really taking on new clients and letting them know I am 100% focused for them. I am beginning to expand my empire and it will all begin here with your help!

Please stay tuned to my website www.fouadmuscle.com or to my Facebook page and sit back and enjoy the ride with me. We can all be better and this is my way of showing that I am going to be bigger, stronger and more successful on all fronts.

Sacrifice Without Regret,

Fouad 'Hoss' Abiad

The Mind is a Powerful Thing

2010-09-06T16:32:00.003-04:00

I'm into the last bulking phase now before my diet and I have to be honest I am itching to get back onstage. I am still busting ass trying to make more improvements before it is time to shred it down and dawn the posing trunks. That being said it really feels like each day is a lesson in patience and consistency.

I have made improvements and I really want to get contest ready to be able to see them! The challenge comes in knowing that your competition is still working hard at putting on more and more muscle and still improving. That means I have to keep at it regardless of how impatient I have become about this. Its just 8 more weeks and it will go fast but just not fast enough I guess. I'm grinding out each day, each, meal, each set, each rep just trying to keep my eye on the ultimate goal....bringing the biggest, hardest package to date to the ASC stage.

My weight is holding steady at around 285lbs but I feel like I am getting leaner and leaner at this weight so that is always a good sign. I have begun thinking about posing music and going through the motions in my mind of what it will look like the day of the show under the bright lights.

I have even begun looking at new posing trunks..lol...believe it or not I am a little superstitious about my trunks. I wear the same ones for every shows prejudge and I feel like I need new trunks for every big show I enter. Not sure if any of you do this but its just something that I noticed I do recently and I'm not even conscious of it.

I have really begun to incorporate time in each of my days to really focus on what I am doing. To really visualize the day, how it will look, who will be there, what people will be in the audience, the music in the background. It has started to be that detailed as I envision the day and how it will go. Of course in my mind I am winning so only time will tell if the vision in my mind will come true or not.

I think training the mind to think through negativity and to be strong in the face of bad attitudes is a major part of becoming a champion. A great physique can take a turn for the worst in a hurry if the person can't control how he/she feels inside. Personally at one show I did in 2007, I looked great but after a couple bad attitudes were able to get into my head my physique really took a turn for the worst.

Battling through adversity is not only about not caring about exterior things that happen in your life. Its also about battling the negative thoughts and bad feelings that are always trying to hold you back. Some people let that get the better of them, some people use those thoughts for fuel in their attempt to drive thru them....which person are you?

I know this really seems like a lot of fluff but in all honesty, a great body is useless without a great mind. Take the time in your day to stop, sit down and just think. Envision how you are going to do things, what the final outcome will look like. The more you do this the clearer the vision will become and as time goes on you will begin to see it happening....just remember its not always overnight.

I'll leave you with this story. In high school I was often board in class and would find myself doodling in my notebooks (whatever I wasn't an academic). I was a car nut so I would always doodle a Ford Mustang GT (the 96-04 style). I did this over and over again, all the while driving a piece of crap car but it didn't stop me from doodling that Mustang and dreaming about it. I did this all through high school and most of University all the while driving crappy cars. Until one day I was washing my new car and realized...OMG....all that doodling left an imprint in my mind and that day I was washing the car I had envisioned myself in for years! I was washing my brand new Ford Mustang GT, it took me years to get but who cares, I got it! Just remember this simple rule, if you can't see it in your mind, you will never see it in real life!

Sacrifice Without Regret,

Fouad 'Hoss' Abiad

Being a True Professional

2010-08-30T21:32:00.002-04:00

The days keep passing and I keep growing...lol...I'm sitting at 294lbs right now and feeling good about how lean I am and the gains that I have made. I'm eating relatively clean now, I got all the junk out of my system after my guest appearances and finally am working hard.

Training is good, for a while I tried to simplify things and see how my body would respond. In some body parts it works great and I continue to use it, in others it doesn't. I was doing a 3 set, 3-4 exercise split and going to failure on all sets. Most of the time I was out of the gym in 9 sets and feeling great. The problem is this type of training only works for me on my body parts that I can feel easily. For my lagging body parts I don't really see a positive effect.

I believe that if your mind muscle connection is strong in certain muscles they will grow easily without much volume. I think for me anyway when it comes to lagging body parts they need to be hit with a variety of angles and maybe a little more volume than normal.

So since I realized this after a couple months of trials, I have gone back to really mixing it up when it comes to my leg development. My last quad workout went like this:

8 sets of leg extensions (increasing the weight after each set) X 20reps

8 sets of leg press (increasing the weight after each set) X 20reps

4 sets of squats(weight stayed the same) X 20reps

That is not a traditional leg workout for me. It was lacking in angles but the rep and set scheme really did me in. Give it a shot but make sure you are pushing right through to 20, no stopping.

Life on the outside has been good as well (that's what I call it since I am in the gym for what feels like all the time), my client base is growing and my online coaching business is really flourishing and people are getting great results! What more can I ask.

Actually one shitty thing happened. The love of my life was backed into last week....not my girlfriend, the other love of my life....my STANG! I had put it away for a couple months since I have been doing a lot of driving. The first day I bring it out, dude backs into me in the gym parking lot. Shitty but at least she'll get her backside buffed and shined....yes perverts I'm still talking about the car...lol

One of the best things to happen to me in my career took place last week. I was asked to do a golf charity event for kids with cancer and some kids from Children's Aid. Obviously it was voluntary and I jumped at the chance. I love all my fans but I'm sorry none are better than little kids. They just love big muscle, it reminds them of cartoon characters and they get so excited. So I signed some hats, shirts and some pics for the kids and took pics with all of them...making them pose with me of course!

I guess I could say I indulged myself a little as well. As part of the event the Fire Dept in town brought out one of the trucks. Well I took it upon myself to ask to go for a ride..lol, but wait it doesn't stop there. When we got back I walked away but kept looking back at the basket they use to save people in high rises. Finally I said 'fuck it, I'm gonna ask', I went back and asked them to take me for a ride in the basket..lol..they looked at me like they already knew I wanted to..lol, embarrassing but whatever, I was a kid for a day.

Anyway, seeing those kids, some in wheelchairs, some with crutches, some with just no one to be there for them really made me appreciate the things I have in my life more than I already did. Lately anytime I see or feel something that I think is a big downer I think about how happy those kids were with all that they had going on.

I have been invited back next year and the organizers called to tell me I was a big hit with the kids (and some of the adults..lol, guys asking how to get in shape), without hesitation I told them I will be there before the first kid hits the door!

Sacrifice Without Regret,

Fouad 'Hoss' Abiad

One Goal in Mind

2010-08-22T20:14:00.003-04:00

Last Sunday marked the day I decided that I am completely shutting it down and preparing for the 2011 ASC on all fronts. I have left no stone unturned this year, getting all different types of therapy, doing many different phases of training, eat, ect. Hany and I have been in constant contact all year making sure things are always moving in the right direction. This year I have even kept a focus on my mind, really trying to meditate and visualize the things I want to achieve and the things I want to see happen. As I said before I have left no stone unturned, this coming years ASC will be the big one for me.

Some people say I shouldn't put so much pressure on myself and I should keep things quiet. Those who know me know thats not me. I like being intense and passionate about something, I don't want to hide out and keep things bottled up. I want to make this ASC showing almost like a reinvention of 'Fouad Abiad'. I want people to see the changes I have made and take not that I will keep leaving nothing to chance to get myself to the top.

I love the haters, I love the doubters, I feed off their energy and live to prove them all wrong as I have time and time again. This show isn't going to be a 'just happy to be there' show. I really plan on stepping my game up to the next level and being compared with the best in the world. Whether that happens or not has yet to be seen but in my mind it has happened time and time again....

Its hard taking so much time off. Injuries have really held me back this year from a couple shows I think I could have done really well at if not won! It hard watching new up and comers get all the hype, the checks, the magazine coverage and constantly hearing about who has done what. It has been tough but Hany has kept me focused on the ultimate goal. I needed him to do that. Where I wanted to compete a couple times this year even with injury, after discussing it with Hany I realized I would not be at my best and this would not further my career. Taking the much needed time to rehab injury and bring up stubborn body parts has been tough but will be all worth it come March.

I know what most of you are thinking...its going to be such a tough show. You are all correct, the ASC is the 2nd biggest show in BBing and the only person that is at the top that usually doesn't do it is Mr.O himself. Guys like Phil Heath, Kai Greene, Victor, Branch, Evan, Roelly will all be there and will all be much improved and gunning for the top spots. I realize this and I am looking forward to it. Am I scared? Most pros won't tell you this but...YES! Those are the best in the world and it will be the challenge of my BBing life. I can say this, a long time ago I was taught this simple definition....Courage is defined as the ones who are scared but go anyway.

Yes I am going into battle with the best and the only ammunition I will have is the hard work that I have put in all year. Will it be enough? Keep posted to this blog, my fan page on facebook and the Muscular Development forums for updates, videos, pics to show you all how this last phase of my offseason is going. One more bulking phase and then time to get shredded...who knows maybe I will video tape the whole thing from now on and bring you all along for the ride!

Sacrifice Without Regret,

Fouad Abiad

Back to Work, Feeling Good!

2010-08-11T23:41:00.003-04:00

Its been about a week and a half since my one week layoff and man all I can say is, it feels great to be back! I took some time in my down time and tried to really figure out where I wanted to go next with my physique. I came up with these things that need addressing...bigger hams, bigger calves, bigger arms and a little more fullness to my quads...geez as I right that it seems like I just mention my whole body...fuck..lol

Anyway, I fiddled with it for a few days but came up with a good split that Hany thought was good for my physique and what we are trying to emphasize. For those of you with the same lagging body parts I have here you go:

Sunday -OFF

Monday - Back & Hams

Tuesday - Arms & Calves

Wednesday - Off

Thursday - Quads & Hams

Friday - Chest & Shoulders

Saturday - Arms & Calves

I started this split this week and so far I am loving it. I was having trouble for the longest time trying to figure out how to really give certain bodyparts hell but this is the split that i have been looking for.

I had a little trouble getting the bad food out of my diet this last week or so but eventually I have been able to really get things nailed down....well, except for the Timbits I had today (donut holes for those of you in the US). I can't help it sometimes I just gotta have a baked good of some sort, its a weakness.

On a very positive note I have three clients going into the Canadian Nationals this year and I am looking for all of them to do very well with possible pro cards to bring home. I already told Hany if they bring home pro status he's gotta call me the Jr.Pro Creator! lmao. I think I can make it stick and I think at least one of my athletes will do it this weekend, its going to be very exciting for sure.

The only thing better than accomplishing my own goal of turning pro is helping someone else to realize their dreams. I actually leave tomorrow morning for Saskatoon and am pretty excited to see old faces that I haven't seen in a while. Back when I was competing at the national level there was a great camaraderie amongst all the bodybuilders. Now going back I am going to get to see a lot of those same guys either as trainers or new talent or some that are still competing. Its almost like a high school reunion..lol

Things are moving along nicely though, I am living one day at a time and really trying to experience everyday and every workout. I am putting everything I have into each set and each meal thinking that this is all leading up to the big show in Columbus, the ASC. I know nothing in life comes easy and I am not taking anything I am doing lightly.

Sacrifice Without Regret,

Fouad 'Hoss' Abiad

Ready to Grow!

2010-08-01T23:26:00.002-04:00

Well I've been back from BC for a bit now and I've had a good long rest and I am ready to get back on the horse! BC was amazing, reminded me a lot of Northern California, beautiful weather, tons of trees and mountains everywhere. Sushi there was great, people were extremely nice and to top it all off the BBing community out there was amazing!

I actually was in the best shape ever in the offseason for that event and I really think the fans appreciated me trying my hardest to show up looking relatively good for them. The competitors were all nice, I actually had a bber and bikini competitor (couple) help me put my color on even though they were getting ready to go on themselves....very selfless, I appreciated it greatly!! Everything was perfect from the lighting to the music and I have to say Dean did an amazing job putting on the show as it all ran very smoothly.

It was also really nice to get out there and see some old friends I haven't seen in a long time. Nadia and Chris were very welcoming and they are both judges so I really respected all they had to say about making my physique better. Darren and Lara were really good to introduce me to all their friends and let me hang with them and go for dinner. I thank you both very much if you're reading this. Darren once I get my M6 I'll let you drive it if you ever come to Ontario..lol.

After BC I got home and it was finally time to relax. I had discussed my return with Hany and he said he wanted me to do NOTHING for one week! I don't think I have done 'nothing' for a whole week in my entire career! He said nothing at all, no cardio, no weights, don't even drive by the gym..lol So I listened.

All week long I just spent my time, stretching, taking care of clients, eating very clean food to try and give my body the nutrients it was craving like fruits and lots of other good stuff. Okay I have to admit, I may have put down a few large pizzas and some ice cream but I'm sure my body needed it..lol.

In that week off I also got some good therapy in and some good reading time to help learn new things about thinking clearly and nutritional info that can always make my clients better. My new therapist (who should have been my therapist from day one) Alvin Brown is absolutely incredible. I have no worries about anything he is doing since he does a number of different techniques and also had the experience to back up his treatments. He has worked on a number of different pros including Ronnie Coleman and Jay Cutler, closer to home he works with Ben Pakulski and Bob Weatherill, needless to say his resume and word of mouth make it clear I should have been seeing him from the beginning.

Alvin shares my vision for getting to the next level and feels we can take the proper steps to get there with a little extra work. We are working on getting my mind right since that is step one in any plan of attack...believing and seeing it mean more than anything. We have begun physical and mental preparations for the 2011 ASC now because its going to take that much time to really get me to my all time best. All I can say for sure is you are all in for a treat with what I am going to be bringing to the stage in less than half a year.

For now, Hany and I have devised a good program for growing...yes growing. I am sitting at a pretty good 285lbs right now and over the course of the next four months we plan on bring that to a lean 290-295lbs. I have never been lean at 295lbs and if I can get into guest posing shape at that size than my stage weight should be right where I want it in February. I am hoping to be somewhere between 255-265lbs come 2011! Watch out boy!!!

Anyway like everything else all of this work comes at a big sacrifice. Nothing comes cheap and buying the best food, seeing the best physiotherapist and having the best trainer are all expensive things to deal with day in and day out. Luckily I have MuscleTech and Muscular Development behind me and are willing to make the investment in me because they know I am leaving no stone unturned to make it to the top.

Like I told the fans out in BC, I am taking Canada to the top in 2011....count on it!

Sacrifice Without Regret,

Fouad 'Hoss' Abiad

One More To Go!

2010-07-20T12:49:00.002-04:00

Its been a busy year for me and I am very thankful for that. I have done a lot of traveling this year in comparison to other years and I am down to the last appearance for a while. This year I will be in British Columbia for the BC Provincial Championships and on the Sunday I will be at Popeye's Kitsilano for a store signing.

I am feeling very proud to head out to BC, its an honor for me to be part of a great Canadian show and see some Canadian fans out west. I keep hearing how beautiful BC is, I haven't had the chance to visit yet so I am definitely looking forward to it!

On the technical side right now things are still pretty straight forward. I am doing about 9-12 sets per bodypart and lifting as heavy as I can. Therapy is going great, I am seeing a new chiro and am also going to be seeing Alvin Brown this week. I hear he is one of the best to work on BBer's so I am looking forward to it.

Food wise there is much less pressure dieting for guest appearances than for shows..obviously I guess. I set my meals up in the morning and pretty much know what I want to eat. Some days I will eat 2 chicken meals, 2 steak, one egg white and one shake. Other days I will eat 4 fish meals, 1 steak, 1 shake. It really is nice to have the freedom and as long as the food is really clean I keep getting tighter.

My weight was down to 274lbs this morning and I am feeling ready to hit the stage, a couple more cardio sessions and that should about do it. My cardio is the stepmill first thing in the morning about five days a week. I don't like doing any cardio on leg days but other than that I am on it!

After this appearance I am looking forward to a forced layoff. I have been ordered by the boss (hany my trainer) to take a week off and do nothing. He says I am not even aloud to drive by the gym..lol. In my twelve years of bbing I have never really had time off. Even after shows when I take time off its not really time off. I still get in and do some light training or some cardio or something. This will be the first lazy week in a long time.

So I'm trying to decide what to do with myself. Its definitely going to be nice to get into therapy for the whole week and really heal up. Other than that I'm not sure though. I'm thinking possibly a vacation, maybe just a week of TV and take out..lol.

I guess I have a great problem. I love my job so I never take time away and when I am ordered to I really don't want to....how many people can say that! Its easy sometimes to get into the mindset that we always want more, more, more. Not very often do we take a step back and really appreciate what we have and what we have achieved in life.

Always train hard, stay focused, chase your dreams and make them reality....anything is possible if you're willing to believe in it and work for it.

Sacrifice Without Regret,

Fouad 'Hoss' Abiad

They Don't Mess Around Down South!

2010-07-12T19:10:00.002-04:00

Whats goin on everyone. Little late with the entry, just got in last night from Florida where I realized there is an amateur scene in the US that I had no clue about. Its a little hard to see things from up here in Canada but when I do get a chance to go to any shows in the US I am always impressed.

Me and a friend flew down to Ft.Lauderdale for the Southern States Championships. First off I have to thank Peter of USA Sports for having me down to the show, also wanted to thank his friend Sam for making sure I had all that I needed and taking me to the ZOO gym an awesome place to train! The fans in Florida were amazing, very cool and had so much BBing knowledge to talk about. The competitors were all very complimentary back stage so I have to thank all of them as well.

Most importantly the one thing I noticed was the quality of physiques there. All the competitors were in shape and were very balanced. The thing was the quality of physiques didn't just stop at the stage. I like to sit in the audience at the shows and just hang out and most of the fans looked like the could have been pros too! Its nice to see that many people in one place all in great shape. I like to think about the people who say BBing is dieing when I look at that, it seems bigger and more competitive than ever to me. Also in attendance was Dayana Cadeau, Krystal Richardson, Bill Willmore, Lee Banks, Mike Van Wyck and so many more I noticed but can't recall at this moment. It truly was a great event to be a part of and I look forward to it next year.

I have to say it was also an honor to be part of the guest posing line up that Peter had put together. I was only one of six, Mark Alvisi, Manuel Romero, Dave Henry, Hidetada Yamagishi and last but not least Victor Martinez. Unfortunately I was the only one not getting ready for a show....that meant I was the fat guy..lol. They all looked awesome and I wish them luck at their upcoming events.

One of the great things that happened to me this weekend was bumping into Dayana Cadeau. She was judging the show and I had a chance to talk to her backstage a bit at intermission. I respect her as a BBer and as a person and value her opinion since she has had such a great career and seems to really know physiques in general. She went on to tell me how much I have improved in the last year especially in the lower body which as most of you know is a lagging area for me. So, thank you to her and he awesome comments.

After getting home last night I decided to give myself a little bit of relaxation since I have been eating very clean over the last few weeks. I'm not proud of it but I gotta admit the pizza and chocolate didn't last long after I got it home...lol. I really didn't sleep that well while away either so I really took advantage of my day off today.

All that being said the relaxation is over and I am looking ahead to the BC Provincials. I have quite a few friends out west that I look forward to seeing, I also have been getting quite a bit of emails from people that will be attending who look forward to seeing me. I am very excited to put on a good show for my Canadian crowd!!

So what am I doing in the gym? Training for the next couple weeks will be very heavy and very low volume as it has been. I am actually doing about nine sets per body part right now and really noticing a fullness and density to the muscle that wasn't there before. There are great arguments for high volume and low volume but to be honest I have always gotten great results from lifting heavy. The bottom line I have found is the best plan is the ever changing plan. Six to eight weeks and then switch. That keeps your body guessing as well as keeps your mind fresh in the gym. The workouts aren't too different, there are staples in every workout that don't change but the reps, sets change and that's what keeps my body guessing.

I will actually be video taping more of my workouts or possibly just a few sets from each workout for people to see what I am doing from time to time. If you are interested in seeing these small video clips join my fan page on Facebook. You can get there by going to my website fouadmuscle.com and clicking on the Facebook link. http://www.facebook.com/pages/Fouad-Hoss-Abiads-Official-Fan-Page/131874590177024

Lastly I wanted to say a few things about my clients. I have a few clients heading to the nationals and although my trainer Hany Rambod has claimed the moniker 'The Pro Creator', I am looking forward to stealing it for the weekend. I really believe that all four of them have a good chance at turning pro. I am very proud at how hard they have been working and the progress they are making.

I will be out in Saskatoon for the Canadian Nationals and most likely backstage making sure everyone is prepped the best they can be. It isn't easy to do the things we do as BBer's and it also isn't easy to train some people as a coach. I have to say these four clients I have going to Nationals have been some of the easiest clients I have ever worked with. Zero complaining, follow instructions to a 'T' and there progress is evident of that. It is a pleasure to work with all of them and because I have such a respect for their work ethic I am really busting my ass to be there for them and make sure they achieve their dreams.

Good luck to all four of you, keep your focus strong and get what you deserve!

Sacrifice Without Regret,

Fouad Abiad

Are you as big as you think you are?

2010-07-05T01:56:00.002-04:00

Coming off the high from the weekend in the Bahamas was a little tough. I had a little too much to eat on Sunday flying home...what can I say, airports have the best junk food (Cinnabon!).

Anyway as soon as I woke up Monday my ass was back on the stepmill and getting ready for the next appearance. I have to say it was a little hard to sleep this week. Even though I was only there for a couple days I got used to the huge soft bed at the Pelican Bay Resort, just an amazing place. Hopefully Silvera's from FRECON can bring me out again next time they have a big event in the Bahamas, a BIG thank you to them.

It was nice this week though, I actually had a week where I didn't have to travel. I was feeling good physically and didn't drive up to Burlington (T.O area) to see my therapist. I actually ended up seeing my deep tissue therapist here in town. I have realized after years of treatments there is no one treatment that will keep you healthy. Your body is very complex and when we put it through the punishment we do it takes a variety of things to keep us running smoothly.....at least I need it anyway.

I realized I need, deep tissue massage, acupuncture, graston's, chiropractic work, foam rollers and laser treatments to keep my body healthy and all injuries at bay. I know most of the pros I talk to or most guys my size usually see some type of therapist once or twice a week to stay healthy. Knowing that others are going through it makes me realize its just part of the game and has to be done.

So being home was nice, I got to rest, relax and not have to pack any meals. I seem to have a bigger sense of focus and attention to detail when I am home and have everything I need at my fingertips. I am getting ready to guest pose at the Southern States which is a very big show and I am trying to bring a nice physique for the fans out there. The last couple weeks training has been hard and heavy which is a big change from the higher volume stuff I was doing. I think my body responds better to the heavy, low volume type training. The one thing I can say for sure is, I think its a good idea to keep your training style changing every so often.

There was one problem with being home though. As some of you know who have read my blog in the past, I seem to have a shopping habit when I am dieting. I have been dieting for about four weeks now and even though it hasn't been hard I am still entering the shopping zone...and this is what brought it about....

Most of you know I am being trained by Hany Rambod. Once a week or so I send Hany pics so we can assess my physique and keep things moving in the right direction...herein lies the problem. I have been working off a ten year old Dell laptop with a very old video card. I would take photos at the gym and come home and upload them onto my computer, resize them, look at them and send them off.

One night Hany called me and as we were talking he mentioned a couple areas he thought still needed work. I completely disagreed with him and said 'you're crazy things are looking great'. He again, disagreed. Later on the next day at my girlfriends house I decided I wanted to look at the photos again to see what Hany was talking about....in shock I looked at my pics and wondered why I was half the size from the pics on my computer! After calling my brother (computer tech) I found out because my video card was old it was making all my pics look much bigger than they should be! It was like looking in a funny mirror at a funhouse. Here I thought looking at the pics on my Dell, I was ready to stand next to Jay Cutler, only to find out I am the same size as Jay Cutler the Chicago Bears quarterback! Needless to say Hany got a good laugh out of it all and thought that maybe I would finally bust my ass since now I can see what I really look like...lol.

So this brings us back to the shopping. I spent the next two days researching online, talking to my bro and bothering numerous Best Buy employees (who I think were just scared of me) to find out what computer would be best for me. Gotta say it killed the shopping craving and although I was completely stressed out, I finally ended up going home with a new MacBook Pro with all the bells and whistles.

Its probably waaayyy too much computer for my needs but like everything else in my life, its extreme. There is no grey, just black and white. I guess that's what makes us all similar. I train numerous clients, female and male and there is only one common denominator to all of them...intensity. We are all extreme, we all want to win at all costs, we are either eating a large pizza in one sitting or chicken and yams, or in my case, buying a ten year old computer in the classifieds or the newest laptop on the market. I guess the only thing that separates us is, who is willing to sacrifice for what they want....your right, it always comes back to that!

Sacrifice Without Regret,

Fouad Abiad

BAHAMAS!!

2010-06-28T14:29:00.002-04:00

Its my first day back from the Bahamas and whoever said being a pro bodybuilder isn't fun, never did it the right way! I have to thank Maurice and Trevor who took care of me very well and they put on an amazing show...great promoters. Before I go on I also want to thank the people who showed up to the show, the competitors and especially BIG ROB for being such awesome people. BIG ROB, I'm gonna tell Hany you are comin for him and your name will be up there with the greats soon enough!!

I have to say it was an amazing trip and everything that I dreamt of coming up as an amatuer and leading up to this came true. I always wanted to travel the world as a pro, I always wanted to be able to 'Wow' people and motivate them to achieve their dreams. All of those things came true this weekend.

I boarded the plane in Detroit city with my good friend and training partner Paul Lauzon. At first glance the women giving us our tickets said, "man I feel sorry for the person sitting in between you two" as she laughed. As we laughed about it I asked if there was anyway she could save that person the trouble and possibly have us sitting alone in three seats, she was polite enough and I think had sympathy for that person and accepted my request. That was the beginning of a great trip. There is nothing worse than sitting in a hunched over, squished position for three to four hours.

Anyway, when we got there Trevor was there to pick us up. I wouldn't leave the airport at first, you have to understand being 280lbs and the weather being in the 110's with humidity isn't a good mix. After getting up the courage I ran from the airport to the car...one air condition to another..lol.

We went for a bite to eat, got some groceries and headed to our room. Maurice put us up in a beautiful sweet overlooking the water with all the amenities, I couldn't have been happier. They told me they wanted me to come to the weigh in which at first confused me, those generally aren't exciting events where the guest posers show up. Weigh ins are generally tense events where are the athletes are on edge weighting for their turn to shine the following day..... Not in the Bahamas though.

The weigh in was in a Market Square type area with outdoor bands, bars and restaurants all along the marina in Freeport. I couldn't believe it, it was like a party atmosphere and none of the competitors seemed stressed or anxious. The scale was set up on the stage where the band played and competitors came up one at a time and weighed in. At the end they called up Joel Stubbs and myself and we got a very warm welcome from all the people there, tourists and locals alike.

After that we went and grabbed a nice dinner at the square and packed it in. Afterall it was a work trip. We hadn't slept much the night before since it was an early flight and I had to cut water for the next day so I wanted to get some rest.

We woke up the next day very well rested and ready for the task at hand. Problem was it was only 10am and the show didn't start till 7pm so we had some time to kill. So we went shopping. There I learned I can't haggle for shit and the locals there worked me for all my money...lol. I remember at one point I actually realized later on I ended up paying two dollars more for something instead of two dollars less..lol. Whatever, I was dehydrated, that's my excuse and I'm stickin to it.

We got back to the room and realized it was still only 1pm. I was really dehydrated and it was literally a sauna outside (not just sayin that...it really felt like a sauna when you opened the hotel room door to go outside) but we were in the Bahama's and figured we should do something, so guess what genius idea I came up with. Lets go to the beach. So dehydrated and exhausted we walked down to the beach, then decided a swim would be refreshing. Swimming in salt water in the hot sun without being hydrated and not being able to drink water = very bad idea..lol. After about an hour I was knocked out, we sluggishly made our way back to the room and I tried to crash until the phone rang ten minutes later. Time for your spray tan...lol

I got up and got ready, we got to the event and I couldn't believe it. The auditorium was full and the usher was running around grabbing chairs from wherever he could to let people sit down. Then it was just standing room only and the place was packed and live! I was getting more and more nervous/anxious, I wasn't sure how I'd be received. They called me to come out, I stood behind the curtain as my music started and I walked out and I could not believe the crowds reaction. The loudest crowd I have ever heard, the welcome they gave me was unbelievable, something I will never forget. Those people really know how to express themselves...lol.

Afterwards I stayed out front and hung out with a lot of them just talking about bbing and life on the island. I signed photos and took pics with everyone there, men, women and little kids (gotta love the little kids, they get so excited). It was amazing.

The next day we had a few hours to kill but I just couldn't take the heat anymore. I decided I was going to rehydrate and park my ass in front of the air conditioner all day (i know not that fun but it was HOT). When it was finally time to leave, Maurice picked us up and dropped us at the airport. I gave him a few DVD's for himself and some athletes and said thanks for everything. The girl at the airport counter in the Bahamas had the same feeling for that imaginary person sitting between me and Paul so she took care of us just as well as far as seating goes. Luckily no one had to sit next to me and I didn't have to be squished in my seat, I guess sympathy for the small is international...lol

All in all, it was an amazing experience and as for guest posing's it was one I will never forget. I have a couple more coming up in the next little while and all I can hope is that I can put on a good show for the crowds there all the same.

Goals start out as dreams and sometimes those dreams seem crazy. People tell you that its not possible, not worth it, not gonna happen. I firmly believe that if you want something and you are willing to work hard for it and keep it in the front of your mind at all times it will happen. Your dreams will become real life goals and will be realistic even if only to you. Your belief in yourself is the most important thing and when your dreams come true your friends, family and people around alike will all begin to have that same belief in you. Sacrifice for that dream.....

Fouad Abiad

Too Much Info?

2010-06-20T21:20:00.002-04:00

I have been at this BBing thing for a while now. Even though I started BBing late in my life (20) I think I have seen and heard it all as far as training techniques, supplement strategies, diets, vitamin and mineral regimens, ect. I have read all the major mags at one point or another and am constantly online trying to learn more. I think learning as much as you can about what you are doing is a great thing and you always have to be open to learning more. There is only one problem with that.

In the last couple weeks I have realized I am a product of the information age at its best. There is so much info at my finger tips I have become consumed with trying to add it all in. I realized that my training program has become similar to a cluttered closet with the important things tucked in the back where you can't see them. Okay, I'll explain.

When I started training back in the day, things were simple. Eat protein and carbs, lift weights from A to B and make sure you get some rest. Sounds pretty easy right?...it was. It was simple and without complexity and best of all it worked. The problem is over the years I have learned too much and I think this happens to a lot of BBers. I have done everything, I have done, low volume/heavy weight, high volume/moderate weight, rest pause, negatives, supersets, strip sets, drop sets, forced reps, giant sets, century sets, you name it I have tried it.

Of course we have to try new things to get ahead in the sport because that's the only way you'll know what works for yourself. Thing is I have forgotten where I started....until now. I forgot that squats and deads, very heavy, with lots of food was the key then and is still the key now. In the last couple weeks I have cut out all the crap and different things that make BBing complex and just decided to eat and train.

My training has been heavy and basic. Not a lot of sets, usually 9-12 for small body parts and 12-15 for large body parts. More rest between sets, lifting heavier and mostly all free weight. It has felt so much better than the 25 set workouts I was doing with minimal rest between sets. It feels like BBing, not aerobics and this heavy kind of training is what I am used to. 25sets a body part might work for guys like Cutler and Priest but its just not for me.

Bottom line is, its okay to try new things and its important to always keep learning but in saying that, always remember what got you to where you are. Keep it simple, don't try and reinvent the wheel. Train hard, train smart and always remember the foundation and building blocks that really build great physiques.

Sacrifice Without Regret,

Fouad Abiad

Living the Life...

2010-06-14T00:19:00.003-04:00

As the old saying goes, 'Be careful what you wish for, you just might get it'. As a pro bodybuilder one of the things that sets the successful pros apart from the average pros is being busy. My entire career I haven't been busy...lol. I have been a bodybuilder now for twelve years and a pro for three and I have always asked myself, 'is this all there is to it'.
Throughout my career I have spent my days working, working out, eating, sleeping and getting ready for the one or two shows a year. I thought, there is no way this is it. I started to see other pros traveling from state to state or country to country and I realized what I was missing. The life of a successful pro can be measured not just by placings but also by how in demand he is. After realizing this the dreams started to flow.
I decided, I wanted that, I wanted to travel from country to country and guest pose, make appearances, interact with bodybuilding fans....live the life....be successful. Well all my wishing has started to come true. This is my first day home in my own bed in about a week and a half and right about now I am just happy to be here. I was in NYC last week for a seminar, from there travelled to Toronto to see my therapist and from there travelled to Sudbury, Ontario to see my clients take home some much deserved hardware.
I have to admit and I am not complaining at all because this is the life I chose and I want it, but it is hard to be away from home week after week and really make gains as a bodybuilder. Being away from your kitchen, your gym, your training partners, it all takes its toll. I guess this is what the top ten in the world deal with all year round and for me its only the next month or so. Definitely something I welcome but also something I will have to adjust to. After all becoming good enough to win the big shows is still the top goal at hand.
I have to congratulate Valerie Richman and Misha Ristic who busted the f;ing ass for 14 weeks to realize their dreams. Val has been working with me for a little over a year now and at our second show together and a good offseason we were able grab a 1st place in figure. Mish just started training not too long ago and although he could only manage third he did weigh in 12lbs heavier than his last show meaning things are only going to get better with more hard work. I can say this, if he can gain 12lbs a year who knows where he will be by 30, the kids only 25 years old!
As for the people of Sudbury, Ontario, I honestly can not say enough about how great they were. Thank you to all of them who came up to me and supported me with kind words and great respect. I have to say for every person who came up to me it will help motivate me to do that one more rep or set and keep kickin ass in the gym. I also wanted to thank Ron Hache for his hospitality at his show, he really put on a great event with quality competitors.
I think a lot of pros stop going to some of the local shows after they gain success. Personally I get a lot of satisfaction out of going to all the shows. I enjoy watching competitors getting ready to hit the stage, it reminds me of when I was starting out. I see some of these guys and girls go from show to show and improve and move up the ranks and it actually gives me a sense of motivation to work harder.
At the end of the day there is nothing better than interacting with bodybuilding fans for me. There is also no better feeling for me than knowing that I might possibly be able to help someone achieve there goal with a little more help or a tip that might make all the difference. There was one guy yesterday pumping up and getting ready to go onstage and he said to his girl, "I can't take it anymore, just give me that bottle of water". I think he was going to chug it all...lol. I looked over and told him to hold out, its just a little longer, work just a little harder you're almost there. He passed on the water and continued working. Watching that made me realize how hard all these guys work, no matter what level, how big or small, we are all realizing our dreams.

'Sacrifice Without Regret'
Fouad Abiad

Rollin' Along

2010-05-31T00:38:00.002-04:00

Okay I am into my first week of dieting and things are moving along smoothly. I gotta be honest it feels good to eat really clean. I didn't eat too much crap in the offseason but even just the little extras you add in here and there really effect your appetite. Now that I am eating diet clean I am starting to get hungry again which is really going to help keep me big!

I know it sounds confusing, I am dieting but trying to grow as well. Those of you who follow my career know I am not dieting for a show but for some appearances so I am not restricting cals in a big way but have just cut out all the crap. I have added in daily cardio and intend to eat as much as I can as long as its diet food. I want to see how hard I can get while still staying big and eating lots of usable food. Any of you who will be at my appearances, don't worry tho, I appreciate your support too much...I won't show up fat...lol.

This past week has been good. I realized that all the high volume training has been great for rounding out my muscle shape. Although in BBing its not good to just train one way all the time. I have decided to go back to hitting it heavy to really get the density in the muscle that everyone is always looking for. Being that I have been at this for almost 12 years (10 of them being heavy all the time) now and I have endured some aches and pains I will be treading carefully. Heavy for 4-6 weeks and then back to light for a couple. I think hitting it like that will allow me more longevity in the sport and less nagging injury.

So for my first week of going heavy I have also decided to put the belt away. I never relied on it too much, only on the heavier sets but that's still maybe too much. I put it away this week and actually had bigger and better lifts. I was doing hams the other day and after a couple exercises we hit stiff leg deads. Normally I stop at the four plate mark (405lbs) maybe doing 6 and that's with a belt. This week I decided to keep going, I went up to 475lbs for 8 clean reps, no belt! I am not the strongest BBer nor have I ever claimed to be but for me that was big, especially doing it with no belt.

Over the years I found that something has happened to me mentally in the gym. Doing rep after rep and set after set has given me confidence to make some of the biggest lifts. Although with those sets and reps came small injuries and setbacks and over the years my mind has become more focused on saving myself versus my old school mentality....lift first, think later.

This past week I went back to not worrying. I went back to not worrying about injury because if you worry you can't be going balls out. I went back to not worrying about how many reps and sets and how long I have been there, instead lifted heavy enough that my body told me when it was done. I went back to not worrying about how great my form looks to everyone one around me but instead made sure the feeling in the muscle was so full it felt like it was going to split. I just went back to not worrying....

Sacrifice Without Regret,

Fouad Abiad

Battling Adversity

2010-05-24T23:51:00.003-04:00

Okay, I know I haven't been around for a while and I guess I must apologize for not being better to those of you who do take the time to read my blog. Its been an offseason riddled with speed bumps and I have been doing my best to stay strong and control my destiny. I really feel after all I have been through in my bodybuilding life that if you want something bad enough you will jump any hurtle to achieve your dream.
Here is a short recap of the last few months. I was sick with the flu/brochitus/cold from Dec 15 thru Jan 15. That month really halted my progress, after that I was able to regain most of my size but was still having issues with my joints. Back in March I started seeing Adam Bogar of Dynamic Nutrition in Burlington and since then we have been scraping, massaging, beating up, raking and whatever other term you want to use for the treatments on my elbows and knees. It has been fun to say the least.
I know when its written out it doesn't sound that bad but it has been tough and that brings us to today. To say it bluntly.....I AM KILLING IT! I am weighing in at a lean 295lbs and am the leanest I have ever been at this weight with almost a full six pack showing. I am still working with Hany Rambod and we seem to understand each other better so working together is really making things pop!
My workouts have become a mix of Hany's FST-7 program and my own training that got me to where I am today. I believe that the addition of some of Hany's techniques is really changing my physique to bring my package to the next level. Just so you have an idea what I'm talking about here is an example. Hany usually like the '7' set to be done at the end of the workout, I have found that for me it is best utilized as the exercise that works for me best. So if doing legs I feel squats the most I will do 7 sets there and then move on to the next thing.
Diet wise we were trying to hit the 300lb mark with the same shape I have now but 300lbs lean doesn't come easy. I never did get there so its going to have to wait because I have dropped the hammer and begun to diet. I have a few guest posing appearances coming up (Bahamas, Florida and BC) and I want to make sure I look sharp for all of them. I appreciate all of my fans and I feel it would be wrong of me to not come in a little sharper since they are there partly to see me. The diet is going to be simple, chicken, steak, rice, potato that's it! Eat, train, sleep, grow oh and somewhere in there I have cardio to do so I can grow and get lean at the same time!
I am working on a routine for my appearances and I always welcome any ideas any of my fans want to give me. If you get an ideas for great songs to pose to, hit me with them at fouadabiad@gmail.com.
Lastly I want to congratulate Billy Pope on a job well done dieting, he wasn't a full time client of mine, he's pretty smart on his own, but with a little help he looked awesome at his show and qualified for the Ontario show. My other clients are all doing awesome I have a few getting ready for sudbury who should be coming in great shape with one being a Super Heavy Weight! and all the others will be at the Canadian Nationals in August. Who knows, watch out Hany, I might become the Pro Creator of the north..lol. I have some great guys and girls heading to Saskatchewan and I am looking for some cards and hardware for them!
Ok thats it for now, like I said I just started dieting so as those of you who followed my blogs before I can get a little crazy as the cravings set in....check back for updates and until then always remember....

SACRIFICE WITHOUT REGRET!!!

Getting Through Adversity

2009-12-25T17:45:00.003-05:00

Its been a couple months since my last post and I have been doing my best to really get some good news to give you guys. As many of you know the offseason is a long challenging time when you battle against your own mind to keep motivated. Its easy to fall off track and stop eating all your meals, eat crappy food or even go for a drink or two without realizing you're really hindering your progress.
I have never been one of those people that has a tough time staying motivated, I see the task at hand and go for it. That being said I know my genetics have taken me as far as they are going to take me. Its time I step it up and really begin dotting all the I's and crossing all the T's.
I have spoken to Hany in the last couple days and we are going to be revamping my training and eating to really maximize what my body can do.
I will be training twice a day about four days a week, I will still be hitting legs twice a week in an effort to bring them up. As for food I am not sure how Hany is going to change things, it might be subtle but I know one things for sure. We have decided that we are going to treat the offseason just like the precontest. He is going to give me my diet and I am going to eat exactly what is on it without any additions or fillers and only he will decide when I can have a cheat and what that cheat will be. It really is giving him all the control and I think its the way it has to be if I am going to get to the top!
Okay, as for the last couple months this is what has been happening. My training reached a really good point where I was really moving some heavy weight. I have changed my form a little too, slowing things down a little with a less sloppy range of motion. I have noticed some new growth, mostly in my legs but a little everywhere else. I have added in ab work four times a week just to keep them tight and really carve them in. This is something I have never done in the past.
My diet recently has been great, I have been eating lots of food maybe more than ever before (most of it clean). The problem was I began to look at the scale a little too much more than the mirror and I ended up at about 295lbs but not with the look I wanted.
Now the bad news is bad. I have had knee problems as some of you know and I have had to stop squatting. I have really increased the volume in my leg press and hack squats so I think it is actually helping me grow. I have also been sick the last two weeks and have not been able to get into the gym except for here and there and it really has taken its toll on my look. I always believed it was better to miss the gym and get healthy than go train when you're sick, so I have been watching a lot of TV and still eating.
All of the things I have said so far are part of growing and becoming better in bodybuilding. Greatness and success do not come easily in this life and even with great genetics you have to do everything right, you have to give your blood, sweat and tears, you have to avoid all the pitfalls and if you fall you have to get up and keep moving, you have to sacrifice....

Sacrifice Without Regret,
Fouad 'Hoss' Abiad

Starting the Offseason

2009-11-07T17:51:00.003-05:00

Whats going on everyone, its been a while since my last post but I am back to work now so you can expect weekly posts. I have to tell you they might not be as interesting in the offseason but at least it will give you some insight into the life of an IFBB Pro.
I have finally started my offseason prep for my next season. I still am unsure about which shows I plan on doing, I need to bring up my legs and that might take a little while. I have a few minor injuries that I have been dealing with and knee problems that have arisen from doing heavy sloppy movements. This year I am not focused on the weight but more focused on the rep speed and range of motion. I have been training with this new method for about a month now and I have really noticed soreness and good pain in places where I really need it. It doesn't look as good in the gym but if in the end it produces results than so be it.
I trained quads this morning about to go back for hams and calves. This was my quad workout:

Leg Press - 7 X 10-25
Hack Squat - 5 X 15
Vertical Leg Press - 4 X 12
Leg Extension - 4 X 15

I have been trying to add more volume and keep the reps a little higher when training my lower body. I feel my legs more and feel they get more work when the reps are on the higher end. I have never really trained this way in the past so it may be the key to unlocking the growth in my legs that I need.
Well that's all for now, I will hit you back soon.

Sacrifice Without Regret,
Fouad 'Hoss' Abiad

The Aftermath...

2009-08-30T19:25:00.002-04:00

Whats goin on everyone. Its been a long three or four weeks since my last post so I'm gonna give you all a rundown of my time away and what the future holds. First I want to say I am a little disappointed that I wasn't able to win a show this year. I have set many goals for myself along the way in my bodybuilding career and have achieved every single one of them, be it financial, professionally or just in feeling good about what I'm doing. I think that is the main reason it is so hard for me to think that it won't happen for me this year.
Heading to Tampa I felt relatively at ease about everything, I wasn't really nervous about the show. I felt ready and confident that I had added quality size and was going to do well. Upon arrival I had the owners of Camp Muscle Clothing pick me and my training partner Paul at the airport and take us to the hotel. Hany, my nutritionist met us there and things proceeded to fall into place. I had retained a little water from the flight and we began setting up how to get rid of it so a little night cardio was in order on Thursday night. Friday morning things really started to come together and by Friday night I felt like I was in peak condition and as full as could be. I woke up Saturday morning still feeling confident but not feeling as sharp as I had felt the night before. It didn't really effect me mentally though, I hit the stage with confidence and tried to own it. It wasn't my day though, DJ had me beat and I give respect where it is due, he is a veteran of the sport and I didn't look good enough to make that irrelevant.
On a great note though all three of my brothers were able to make into Tampa on Friday and having them there was amazing. Two of them haven't seen me compete since 2002 so I was really trying to get the win for them but sometimes things don't work out like they're supposed to. It was fun though, after the show my three brothers, Paul, Hany and I went out for some food. I was supposed to be a well behaved meal out since I was possible competing a week later. So we started out a sushi place at 11 at night, my brother ordered a boat for the table (something like 100 pieces of sushi) and I ordered a plate of pasta to boot since I was craving it. Needless to say the sushi and the pasta were all gone literally in a matter of minutes..lol.
So as we're sitting there I happen to mention IHOP and how they have been tormenting me with commercials the whole time I was dieting. My brother says hes never been and Hany starts going on about banana pancakes, next thing I know we're in a cab on the way to IHOP and four entrees later Hany tells me I better stop if I am going to do the show next week...lol. I'm thinking, you waited till the fourth entree to tell me to stop..lol. Good thing he was there though, I could of kept going.
Anyway, I woke up the next morning and had breakfast with everyone and said by as they all went home and I went onto Dallas. In Dallas the cardio began full tilt to get rid of the IHOP I devoured a couple nights before. There was a pretty good Gold's gym near the hotel and a couple friends of mine Max and Katina took me to there gym so that was cool. The week was busy, on Tuesday I did a photo shoot at MetroFlex (always a favorite place to go) with MD which I think turned out well. Wednesday and Thursday were spent grocery shopping and preparing food in my hotel room. Oh yeah and still hammering away at the cardio, the IHOP was just about gone by that time.
Friday was prejudging and I felt like I looked better than the week before and was confident hitting the stage. After the callouts I realized I wasn't going to do as well as last week but it didn't really effect me. I have come to realize that different judging panels like different physiques and there isn't much you can do except keep getting better until they like what you're bringin.
After prejudge I wanted to stay strict in case things were close the next day. I felt good about the way I came back on Saturday. I was a little harder and I thought it was important to give the crowd a good look at what I really had to offer instead of coming back off. It was actually quite a relaxing show altogether, I had good people around me all week and leading up to the show helping me stay focused so it was relatively stress free. After the announced the placings I thought I could have been a place or two higher but I was happy for Bill and Joel, they are both good guys and deserve to go to the Olympia.
After the show I had many fans and some industry insiders come to me and tell me they had me higher than 4th. That's always nice and helps soften the blow of a loss so I want to thank all of those people now. After the show, Hany, Paul, Bill Wilmore and myself went to the Cheesecake Factory(a post show favorite). I didn't get to crazy there, I actually had been on low sodium for so long that everything I ate there just tasted salty, except the MILE HIGH CHOCOLATE CAKE! That wasn't salty..lol.
Like I said though I didn't go too crazy at all eating that night. I had a MuscleTech shoot the next day and didn't want to disappoint them at all so I made sure I showed up in the best shape I could. The shoot on Sunday went well and MT being the awesome company they are took me out for Sushi dinner after the shoot, I have to thank them for that!
I kept it clean most of the night that night also because I had another MD shoot the following day. Per Bernal was the photographer and even though I thought I didn't look my best, he has a way of setting up lighting that can make a fat guy look great..lol. Anyway the shoot went from about 8am to 3pm and although it was a long day I think we got some great shots.
The best part of that day was 3pm because that was it for the year for me. I had busted my ass all year and it peaked through those three weeks I was away from home. I did two video shoots, three photo shoots and two shows and although I didn't win a show I think overall I represented myself well in all aspects of my career over that time. I couldn't wait to get home though, that night I checkout out of the hotel at 3am and went and slept in the airport terminal till 7am where I caught the first flight back home.
Now I am home and after eating like crazy for the last two weeks ( I have been training and doing cardio since I got back) I have had time to reflect on what happened. I have spoken to Hany about my conditioning and we both agree that trying to come in bigger worked but is not something we want to do again. I believe as does he my physique only looks good when I am shredded, not kinda shredded but peeled to the bone. That being said I have made it my mission to step on stage next year at 260lbs. That will be a 15lb jump but I think I can do it. Although that is my goal I will drop to 250-255lbs if it means dry and ripped to the bone. Like I said that is the most important thing next year.
For those of you who are wondering what my plans are, well, when you decide you want to add 10-15lbs to your frame you basically know you need as much time as possible. For this reason I am passing on the O and using this time to grow. You may not see me onstage again until next September unless my body responds more quickly than I think.
Thank you all for the support, the kind words and always having my back at the shows, on the boards, through Facebook or any other outlet. My family, friends and fans are everything to me and I appreciate them more than anyone could possibly know.
I guess since I didn't achieve the goal I had in mind this year that means I have to double up goals for next year. I'll let you know what the goals are for this year as the year goes on, stay tuned....

Sacrifice Without Regret,
Fouad 'Hoss' Abiad

9 Day Out

2009-07-30T12:32:00.003-04:00

First pro win. That has all that has been going through my mind for the last thirteen weeks. Over the course of the last two weeks the feeling and thought has become so strong that there is nothing else I am able to think about. I think this is a wide open field with some great bodybuilders but something outside of the realm of reality is telling me that it is my time. I have been having weird visuals and dreams of the day going my way. I have so much support from everyone around me I feel like there is so much positive energy flowing around me now that it is my turn to step up and take what is mine.
I have worked hard for ten years in bodybuilding and have achieved all of the things I have set my mind to, well this is one more. I have my mind set for the win, so many bodybuilders turn pro and compete and never win a show. I won't be happy with second, top five, top ten, nothing. It is a lot of pressure to put on yourself but sometimes you have to want the ball as they say in other sports. I am ready to take the ball and finish the game.
A lot of things have been thrown my way this offseason and precontest prep and I am still dealing with them. I have dealt with more injuries this year than any year in my career. I have dealt with relationship issues, financial issues and friends family illnesses. All of these things I feel have been a test for me, like someone saying if you persevere you will be rewarded. Well, I have persevered and have gone through all the shit and I am still here without deterrence. The show is around the corner and nothing will stop me from showing up in the best shape of my life and earning my spot at the top.
Things are also on the rise career wise. I am filming a week in the life installment with MD the biggest baddest magazine in bodybuilding and also have a shoot setup with them post show so look for me there. It is nice to see that the premier bodybuilding mag has noticed my efforts and only drives the message of hard work home even harder in my own mind. Work hard and things will come your way, its all a matter of time, dedication and sacrifice. Who knows, if all goes well with the next couple shows you might be seeing me in the pages of MD for a long time...

On a more humorous note I have to let you know how crazy I have become about food. Every year I usually make a list of foods to eat after the show, I think lots of bodybuilders do this so its not big deal. This year I decided I wasn't going to because I have grown out of it....so I thought. It started one day last week when I was watching a show about the best sandwiches in the USA. There is a restaurant near my house that supposedly has the best grilled cheese in the USA..mmmmmm grillllled cheeessee...lol. So I made a point of putting that into my phone as a place to go after the show. Since that one entry I have added about eight different restaurants and twenty three different foods...lol. And by the way, does anyone else notice that Dairy Queen has a commercial on every channel at least every twenty minutes and has come out with three new Blizzard's in the last three months. Jeez, I can't get away from them, needless to say they are on the list. I also noticed that my junk mail is ninety percent fast food coupons and flyer's. Its ok though, I have them all saved in a drawer and I think I am going to attack them all day one day...don't tell my nutritionist though, he'd beat my ass..lol.
For some reason training is still insane. I can't believe it and I am seriously dumbfounded by the amount of weight I am able to still lift eight days out. I am still front squatting, barbell rowing and incline pressing 405lbs. Some of my other lifts are actually heavier now than in the offseason, very strange. I am not complaining by any means and am very happy with the way my body is holding up. I really think it will translate to a different look on stage this year. I believe it will give me a denser fuller look that I have never had before.
Well, I think that's all for now. I am gonna try and get a nap in because as most of you know from past blogs sleep is a hot commodity right now. Before I go I thought I would also let you guys know I am still eating at least 4000cals a day, still all whole food consisting of steak, chicken, fish, oatmeal, brown rice and sweet potato. I love it, I'm eating like a pig but my glutes are more striated now than they were onstage last year!

Sacrifice Without Regret,
Fouad 'Hoss' Abiad

3 Weeks Out

2009-07-20T00:24:00.002-04:00

It has finally happened, the OCD of dieting is in full effect. Here is a sample of a some of things I'm talking about. I cook my meal the same, eat with the same plate (after washed of course), eat with the same fork, sit in the same place and position when eating and to top it off I can't start eating if there is a commercial on TV. Whatever program I am watching has to have started for me to start eating...wtf? I don't know what happens to me four weeks out from a show but things turn very strange for me, whatever it works I guess. On the positive side of the OCD, there isn't a dish in the sink, everything is dusted and laundry gets done before it has a chance to pile up. I guess you take the good with the bad...lol.
This week my calories were dropped a little, the steak was pulled from the diet and switched for fish and some of the carb meals were tapered a little. Funny thing is these minor changes to the diet allowed me to drop five pounds last week and I am just about ready now to hit the stage. I hate being ready early, I think to be freaky I have a couple more pounds to go but I know it could come off in a matter of a couple days if need be. So now its just a waiting game. I am comfortably waiting for the show now at 254lbs and should be able to hit the stage around the high 240's. Its not much more weight than last year but it will be a deeper more complete package than the last time I stepped on stage.
Aside from the food and the craziness my training has been absolutely insane. I am having a very hard time understanding why I am still able to lift the way I am with the intensity I have at the three week mark. Normally by this time I am lifting 60% of what I normally do and energy in the gym is really low. This time around, energy is low but only outside the gym or sometimes during cardio. When I am lifting I am on fire and still breaking some of my old records, I really don't get it but I'm not complaining. For example on Friday training hamstrings after already doing eight sets of two other exercises me and my training partner started stiff leg deads. My max on that exercise in the past and in the offseason was 405lbs for 10reps. On Friday I did 455lbs for 10 reps and although its not a big jump from the norm the most significant thing is that I am doing this three weeks out.
I am hoping that this prolonged strength and gain in strength are going to mean a fuller harder appearance on stage. I find when I lift too light or use too many supersets and things like that my body really flattens out and becomes stringy. In the training area I could not be happier with how things are going right now.
My legs have been a sticking point for me this year and I have really been hammering away to make them catch up to my upper body. I think I have done relatively well creating more balance but usually the diet and the cardio wreaks havoc on my brain when I am looking in the mirror every morning. My legs would tend to flatten out like crazy in years past from the diet and the cardio, this year they are a little flat which sucks but the heavy lifting is really keeping them up which is helping me mentally get through.
On the career end of things I am also looking forward to some new developments that happened this week. I received a call from a very prominent bodybuilding magazine and I won't mention anymore about it until it comes through but it was a good phone call, lets just leave it at that for now but I'll fill you in when it comes together. I also nailed down my first guest posing appearance in the US and am really looking forward to it, Kalamazoo, Michigan, Sept 19th, come out watch me bring the house down!!
I also did Pro Bodybuilding Weekly (radio show) this past week which is always fun. Dan and Bob the hosts kept on trying to get me to make predictions about the show but that is something I have always been against. Trash talk is fun but I don't think I am ready for it yet so I'll hold back for now. Canadian Bodybuilding Radio also had an interview with me that I believe airs this week, those guys over there were great and I was honored to be their first guest.

All in all things are looking up and I am visualizing great things happening. Its amazing what your mind can visualize when you want something bad enough. I have such vivid imaginings that I can see the trophy in my mind and what it looks like to the very detail. Some of the great sports personalities always said you have to be able to see it and visualize it deep inside of yourslef if its ever going to happen.....lets hope they were right!

Sacrifice Without Regret,
Fouad 'Hoss' Abiad

4 Weeks Out

2009-07-11T21:33:00.003-04:00

Let the games begin! That is the only way I can think of things right now. To date this diet has been a joke. I have been dieting for ten weeks and have only lost 11lbs but look like I lost 30lbs. I have been lifting like an animal and actually breaking some of my old records while dieting, that's unheard of for me. Normally I get weaker as the diet goes on. I have been eating about 5000cals a day and have been doing minimal cardio. Like I said things have been easy. Until now...
All of the things said above are about to change. The carbs are lower, the cardio is higher and glycogen stores are not what they were in weeks past so record breaking lifts may have to wait until after the show. There comes a point in every diet when the body stops working and the mind takes over. That's why so many people can't compete as bodybuilders, the mental toughness it takes to lift heavy weight and do cardio on minimal calories is torture and a true test of how bad you really want it. Either you have it or you don't.
I am looking forward to dialing in the last ten pounds. I am sitting at 260lbs right now and have about ten to lose to get that freaky, grainy conditioning that I have been known for bringing. This last ten pounds will take the next three weeks and all the mental toughness I have. The sad thing about all of this is I look forward to sleepless nights, being weaker in the gym and being hungry all the time. Those things all mean I am getting closer and closer to the goal of winning an IFBB show. Without feeling those things, you can not be a champion so you have to welcome it or stay off the stage. I have never heard any great bodybuilder say the dieted for the show and didn't feel hungry, cranky, lose sleep or lose strength. Every bodybuilder from the very top down feels one of all of these things when getting ready for a show.
Career wise things are picking up. I have an appearance next week at GNC in Toronto, I also have a couple guest posings lined up for the fall. They are significant since one of them is my first US guest posing which makes me very happy since it means I am gaining popularity in another country which is very important. There are a couple other store appearances in the works that I am trying to finalize, these are also significant because it gives me a chance to really talk to any fans that have questions for me. Lastly, PBW radio show is on the agenda in the weeks to come as well as SuperHumanRadio, both well known radio shows that I am happy to be part of. Like I always say, if you keep working good things will happen. Its just a matter of time and patience. If you guys are interested I also did an interview with bodybuilding.com this week, you can find it through the site under articles and interviews.
Okay as for the technical stuff. My lifts are still good right now as my body hasn't really begun to drain itself of glycogen and carb stores. Some of them this past week were, 405lb barbell rows, 405lb incline press, 315lb behind the neck press, 405lb stiff leg deads. There has been one minor setback. I have been dealing with a minor quad strain but I think its almost 100% so hopefully the next time I have a blog for you I will have some good quad numbers to put up. I actually broke one of my records this week for barbell shrugs...seven plates a side! I'm working hard to catch up to the big boys. It might take me a couple years but if I can stay healthy I am going to make it happen.
On the food end of things nothing has really changed except for a slight reduction in carbs. I am still eating six whole food meals, no shakes. Steak, chicken, fish are my protein sources and brown rice, yams and oatmeal are still my carb sources. The one thing I can say about knowing when you are dieting hard. I know some of you have felt this, when you are eating a meal and in the middle of it no matter how big it is, you know you're going to be starving when you are done. Actually I'm at the point now with some of my meals when I am starving while eating..lol.

Like I tell my family though, no sympathy. I chose this life, I love this life and I want nothing more than to immerse myself in it. I have said before I am a competitor and a fan of bodybuilding and want to be more than just a one time Olympia competitor, I want to make my mark. Whether it happens this year or another I will make the improvements needed to get me to where I need to be. This is a team sport and as I said before, this week more than ever I have great friends keeping me up and one person I can't thank enough for letting me know what is at stake. She has made me believe more now than ever before how important it is to never let up!

'Sacrifice Without Regret'
Fouad 'Hoss' Abiad

5 Weeks Out - Tampa Bay Pro

2009-07-04T05:58:00.002-04:00

Well, I must be five weeks out because its 5am and I am sitting in front of the computer and NOT SLEEPING! It drives me crazy, I went to bed at like 2am and have been up every hour since then looking at the clock hoping its time for me to start my cardio. I can't really start cardio until about 7am because if I do it before then that means I have to eat my breakfast after that and then my day has started way to early. So I try and time it so I start cardio at 7am and eat my first meal around 8:30am.
Its amazing how the body reacts to having such little bodyfat on it. In the offseason some of you know me as 'Hoss' because I get so heavy, I sleep like a bear in that phase of the year. I go to bed at around 2am and wake up around 2pm the next day. I also feel sorry for anyone sleeping next to me in the offseason because I think I snore like a bear also..lol.
Anyway, I'm rambling. I have noticed a dramatic change in the way I feel this year while dieting and I think a few factors have played into that. As most of you know I am working with Hany this year and he opted to keep me lean this offseason. He wanted to see how my body would react since I have never stayed lean in the offseason before now. I started my contest diet at 271lbs. That might be confusing to some of you since I reported a heavier weight but trust me I wasn't lying I just didn't know. The scale at my gym was 8lbs off! Whats the point of even having a scale if its 8lbs off!..lol.
I went out and bought a new scale and realized I was 271lbs at the start of my diet and as I just stepped on the scale now I was 263lbs. The crazy thing about that is I've only lost 8lbs since the start of the diet 9 weeks ago. I normally only diet for about 9 weeks and I usually drop anywhere from 40-50lbs by contest time. I think this year its going to be more like 20lbs if not maybe a little less.
The point to all of this is the ongoing debate of getting big and fat in the offseason or staying leaner in the offseason. I was a firm believer in getting as big as a house and then shedding all the fat until this year. I have now realized that going a little over is essential for growth but getting sloppy fat (like me at 301lbs...jeez) is not necessary.
In my closet I have about three sets of clothing. One for 'fat offseason Fouad', one for 'started dieting not so fat Fouad' and the last one if 'ripped can finally fit into jeans Fouad'. The nice thing this year was eliminating one of those sets of clothing. I had 'kinda chubby' and 'lean', it makes life much easier, any of you guys out there that love to eat and pack on the pounds know exactly what I'm talking about.
Last but most importantly, I'm a little crazy this time around but as you can see from my previous blogs not nearly as much as years past. Since I didn't get crazy fat this year I don't have to restrict my calories really at all while dieting. I'm still eating in the 4-5000 cal range and loving it. My mood is much better, my friends and family all actually want to be around me this time..lol. Normally I'm a complete ass to be around when I'm dieting. I think having a good support system without outside pressures or negativity's has also really helped keep me levelled out.
I know bodybuilding is an individual and selfish sport, so I thought all these years. As I get older and get into the business of making this my life I have realized that every ounce of help you can get from anyone around you, girlfriend, friends, family, fans, trainer, anyone, its all so important to what the final product ends up looking like. I think if you are happy while training and you have good people around you, not only is the contest diet much easier but you can remain at peace with yourself while you get ready for the one big day you have been gunning for, for 14 weeks. I think it also shows in the way someone looks on contest day, so I hope. If I look like shit this year I'm going back to being an ass, since it worked before..lol.
The excitement for the show has become completely evident this week as we get into the last few weeks here. Before this week, I was feeling very easy going about it and actually wasn't thinking about the show itself that much. This week it has begun to hit me, fans emailing me about it being my first pro win or top three placings, its all very flattering and exciting. With that excitement comes pressure. I feel like the pressure is on now to take my physique and my career to the next level and I am trying to make it happen now. I don't want to wait another year of offseason to rebuild, I have put in the time and I need to make that impact now and that's the kind of pressure I have begun to feel. Its better this way because I work better under pressure, this will only make me stronger.
The great but sad thing is my three brothers are all coming to the show to see me kick some ass. I have to tell you that they are loving but ruthless and if I go out there and give anything less than a stellar performance they are going to rip me a new one for weeks after...lol. Gotta love good family!

Sacrifice Without Regret,
Fouad 'Hoss' Abiad

June 23, 2009

2009-06-23T21:57:00.003-04:00

Well, I was dreading this day and it has come. For some reason the cravings that weren't there at all over the last eight weeks have all of a sudden just shown up all at once. Last night I didn't care about food and it was pretty much the last thing on my mind. Until today winning the show has overcome all other thoughts. Today, thoughts about pizza, doughnuts, and chocolate ice cream all broke into my mind and wouldn't leave as much as I tried. I think I know the reason and it happened all at once.
Somebody please explain to me why people feel the need to watch the food channel while they do cardio. I always do my cardio on an empty stomach in the morning. My cardio of choice is the stepmill (the moving stairs) and I trained legs yesterday so it wasn't feeling very good anyway. To top it off there are about five T.V's in front of the stepmills at my gym and three of them were on food channels! What is wrong with people?! Why would watching chefs making delicious food on t.v make you want to train harder or make cardio any easier? I do forty minutes in the morning and today it felt like four hours because I had to watch people make gourmet pizza and some other stuff that I don't even know what it was but it looked so damn good...lol.
So I finish up and leave the gym and for some reason I couldn't get the food out of my head. It was like all the fast food signs were brighter, more colourful and actually were the only signs I could see..lol. Then I get home and I had mail, so I thought. In my mail was a Pizza Pizza flyer, a KFC flyer and a McDonlald's coupon book. Man when it rains it pours.
Well I am happy to say that the warrior in me was able to eventually (after burning my mail) get my head on straight and block any negative thoughts about food or anything else. There is only thing on my mind right now and that is winning this show coming up and I don't want to give anyone an easy road by messing up my diet and looking like shit.
People always ask me if I feel lucky because I don't have a normal nine to five job? I am always very grateful for my career choice and that I was able to follow my dream but today I actually felt like I worked eight hours in a factory. I barely got out of bed this morning, for some reason after a great leg workout my body needs lots more sleep. When I finally did get out of bed and made my way to the stepmill at the gym, it was a chore with every step since my quads were already burning after the first three minutes in. After coming home to eat I was out to the grocery store to stock the fridge and then cook more food. By the time that was done I was back at the gym for a forty set training session of chest and tris and before I could leave I did another cardio session. When I got home I sweaty and gross and I swear I felt like I did when I was eighteen and I was working in a factory. Just getting home exhausted and sweaty, getting into the shower all recalled those memories of real blue collar work.
Don't ever let anyone tell you what we bodybuilders do is easy, even if it looks that way from the outside looking in. When its done properly and pushed to the very limits it can be one of the hardest jobs on earth. All that being said I wouldn't trade it for the world! My dad was a blue collar man and if anything when I work this hard it makes me feel like him. That makes me proud...

Sacrifice Without Regret,
Fouad 'Hoss' Abiad

8 Weeks Out

2009-06-14T22:58:00.002-04:00

Wow, its been a good week! I have been crushing the iron and lifting more than I ever have at the eight week mark. Usually as most competitors know the closer you get to a show the weaker or lower on energy you become. I have been dieting for six weeks and I am getting stronger each week but still getting tighter. This week I broke a couple of my records and that has got me on fire and ready for the coming week.
Front squats are a tough thing to master and I never really did them on a regular basis until this year. Even though I was doing them week to week I was having trouble mastering the form and getting the feel. In the last few weeks I have really begun to nail it and its paying off. I broke my front squat record this time front squatting 405lbs for 10reps. I know that doesn't sound like a lot when you watch Ronnie front squat 600lbs for fun but for me it is a personal best with that many reps.
Incline press has also been a sticking point for me over the year and as of late its become one of my favorite exercises. Again there are plenty of bodybuilders out there that can lift more so I am by no means bragging but for me I broke another record of mine. I incline pressed 405lbs for 10 reps also this week for two sets and then went on to dumbell press 170lb dumbells for three more sets. I have never done that kind of weight back to back like that so I am feeling good. If I can stay healthy I am going to try to keep this up all the way into the show, within reason of course.
Hunger is still not an issue as I am still getting in 4500cals or so. Someone emailed me this week about wondering how I was eating that many calories and still losing weight. Here is the best way I can explain it.
First off I train twice a day now on some days which is something I have never done. I have a fast metabolism to begin with, not Dexter Jackson fast but I can lose weight pretty easily. So now there are days where I do cardio in the morning then eat, train a bodypart, eat some more and then train a different bodypart. This type of training is really keeping my body burning like a furnace. Secondly and maybe most importantly, all the food I am eating is as clean as can be. I am eating low glycemic carbs this year which is also something I haven't ever done before. Oatmeal, Yams and brown rice are the sources and protein sources are chicken, fish and steak. That's it, that's all I am eating every day, no fats, no sugars, no empty calories. So that being the case my body is using it all to rebuild from two a day workouts and whatever it isn't rebuilding with it is using for energy. Nothing is being wasted.
Over the years in my bodybuilding career I have been somewhat of a homebody. I like to be home to make sure I am getting my meals in on time and that way I can also make sure the quality of the food I am eating is up to par. On a more picky not I have been blessed to be able to make a living from bodybuilding so I can be home to eat meals fresh and not packed in cold Tupperware containers. This type of lifestyle has lead me to missing out on many occasions because I have to eat every couple hours so home base is the place to be for me.
I decided this year that I wasn't going to let my eating schedule dictate what I do and don't do this summer. I have always competed in late summer meaning I am always dieting when everyone else is sitting on a patio somewhere enjoying the weather.
This weekend we had a pretty big event going on in Windsor with concerts and parties going on in the streets. I thought why not make this the weekend I change things. So I ate my meal and headed out with a few friends. They were all drinking, partying and eating great food. To be honest it didn't bother me, I mean I am always interested in a cold beer while under the hot sun but I was OK. I think today showed me that you can still be a great bodybuilder and have a good social life, just because you're out doesn't mean you have to eat crappy food and it doesn't mean you have to be drunk.
All this being said, if I notice even the slightest bit of change in my performance in the gym or in my physique, its back to my old ways. Nothing is more important to me than getting better each year and reaching the top of the sport. Till next week, keep the injuries in check, the iron clanging and the motivation to be the best at its peak!

Sacrifice Without Regret,
Fouad 'Hoss' Abiad

9 Weeks Out

2009-06-07T23:28:00.002-04:00

The show is getting closer and closer and even though things have been hard I am getting more and more excited by the week. Some bodybuilders think its easy to stay in offseason mode, just eating whatever you want and training but for me it gets tiring. There comes a point after four or so months when I just get sick of the offseason and being chubby and really look forward to getting down to business.
This past week brought some challenges but also gave me some hope. In the last blog I spoke about some of the injuries I have had and was a bit discouraged. I have had a hamstring problem for the last few weeks and my therapist has been working on it to no avail. My therapist mentioned it might be my back, as he named some of the symptoms that go with low back pain and disc problems. I really began to identify with it and told him that those were the symptoms I was feeling. This week he began working on my low back on the traction table and also making daily back adjustments. Its only been a week of these treatments and I am already starting to feel better and am able to train pain free! I think a couple more weeks with him working on my back and I will be 100% again feelin good.
This small injury has really taught me to have some variation in my training. For example my back training this week was mostly machine work to keep my low back stable. For legs I had to make other small changes, instead of hack squats which were too much for my low back I had to do reverse hacks which still gave me a burn without slowing the healing process. I guess what I am trying to get across to you all is sometimes when you are training bad things can happen. Instead of throwing in the towel you have to find new ways and have an open mind about how you can really make the muscle work.
I am still growing as the weeks go by, I am at 275lbs and getting leaner. It feels really strange because I am accustomed to the scale dropping and that ends up meaning I am looking better. This time the scale isn't budging, in fact it is going up but I am looking better week by week. I can also tell that the diet is really starting to work because I am getting very hungry in between meals. I am still eating what I was eating two weeks ago but my metabolism has really kicked into high gear. Some of you have emailed me about specifics. Daily I am eating three red meat meals, two fish meals and one chicken making up all six meals with no shakes. This is also the first time I have ever eaten six meals a day without shakes. I think I like it but it does get expensive. Carbs are simple, oatmeal, yams, brown rice and the occasional salad just for some flavor.
Usually as I start to get excited about a show I begin to visualize the stage and how I am going to do. Its not something I do consciously but most of you know how it is when you are doing cardio or in between sets on the gym floor, sometimes your mind just wanders. This is the first pro show I am entering in my IFBB career that I really feel like I have a chance at winning. I can see the callouts and I can see the battle, everyday it looks a little more clear in my mind.
I don't know if its this visualization that has given me the strength in the gym but this week I resumed lifting some of the weight that I haven't lifted in a long time. Leg press - 18 plates a side, incline press - 405lbs for ten reps. I know there are bodybuilders out there that are much stronger than me but for me putting those numbers up while in the middle of a diet is very rare indeed.
Before I let you guys go this week there is one more thing I know of that has given me strength and I have thought of it everyday in and out of the gym. A very good friend of mine told me on Sunday that her daughter was diagnosed with cancer. After hearing something like that it makes all your aches and pains, personal problems and financial issues all seem so insignificant. It made me realize that I have my strength, my family, my friends and I should be grateful for everyday with them. My friend called the other night to tell me about how strong her daughter has been in the hospital and how she hasn't even cried through all the poking, prodding and surgeries. I found a lot of inspiration in that young women's strength and decided that I will dedicate the Tampa Bay Pro show to her for giving me the strength to get through it all and be my best.
The show is getting closer and I am fighting harder and harder, my time is now and I have to break out at this show. I am shooting for the veterans and trying to make my mark, this is the show and this is my year!

Fouad 'Hoss' Abiad
Sacrifice Without Regret!

Nothing can stand in my way!

2009-05-26T22:31:00.003-04:00

So we're a little over ten weeks out from Tampa Bay now and things are rolling right along better than I could have imagined. There have been a few setbacks, hence the title but overall I am happy with the progress I have been making and still baffled by the weight loss even while eating five thousand calories a day.
So lets get to the setbacks so you all can understand what we really go through on a day to day basis as IFBB Pro's. One of the goals this year was to really bring up the legs all around, hams, quads and calves. To do this we have been blasting them twice a week, heavy and high volume, the perfect recipe for injury. Most bodybuilders either go heavy or they go high volume but because of the imbalance in my physique I have had to do both all year. In the process I have managed to overwork and inflame my tendons in my knees and my elbows.
On a daily basis you could walk into my apartment at any time of day and find me with ice packs wrapped around my knees and most likely an ice pack on deck for one of my elbows. Its the only way to keep the inflammation down and allow me to keep training and growing. Anyone who has ever had tendon inflammation of any kind can understand the pain that I go through on a daily basis. These are just the day to day things that I have to live with as I try to grow and become better at what I do.
On top of the day to day challenge of keeping me feeling good enough to train I have minor tears that also come with the territory of lifting heavy for long durations of time. For example, I have a minor tear right now in the top left area of my calve and it makes it hard to do any type of leg curl. I am also battling a hamstring tear that I actually tore about nine years ago now but it has been aggravated again and I am getting it worked on. These are just two of the many minor tears I have dealt with this year. Maybe other bodybuilders are training injury free all year round but I would bet my pay on the fact that anyone training as hard as I am is going through similar problems. As I said its part of the territory so I'm not trying to complain but just trying to educate you all about some of the things you have to look forward to as you become great bodybuilders.
That's pretty much it for setbacks so I guess I am lucky that nothing really bad has happened and I am thankful everyday to still be doing what I love. On a more positive note as I said before I am still eating about five thousand calories a day and still seeing minor changes in my physique everyday. I actually am heavier now than when I started my diet but I am much leaner so I guess that means I am growing into the show which is something I have never done before.
In the past I have always gotten really heavy and then cut cals to help get me in shape. I think that approach worked because it always got me really ripped for the stage. The bad side of that approach for someone like me could have been that it made me stringy and smaller as I dieted. I have a fast metabolism so I think cutting calories drastically burns a lot of mass as well as fat in my body. With the contest diet appraoch Hany is using with me and if I can keep lifting heavy (and its getting heavier every week) all the way into the show I think you will all see a completely different physique. I am excited at what I am seeing so far and can't wait to hit the stage.
So at ten and a half weeks out my weight is 275lbs in the morning on an empty stomach, still eating lots and lifting offseason weight but precontest. So far a great report card as far as I can see. Who knows you all might be witnessing my first pro win in a few months...

Sacrifice Without Regret,
Fouad 'Hoss' Abiad

So it begins...

2009-05-17T19:58:00.003-04:00

What's going on everyone? I'm back at it for the 09' season and getting ready to make a bigger impact than last year at the Tampa Bay Pro in August. I started dieting a couple weeks ago and figured it was time to get back to typing and letting you all know how messed up things really get as I get hungrier and crankier in the weeks to come.
As most of you reading this know I am working with Hany Rambod this year so the diet and training around now is really new to me. In years past working with Chad Nicholls we really only dieted for about eight weeks for most shows, Hany had me start at the fourteen week mark. I am hoping the longer diet makes a difference as we are trying to grow into the show instead of lean down. In all honesty I'm not looking forward to dieting for an extra six weeks than I do normally but if it means a big W at the end of the struggle than that's what it has to be.
One of the benefits of working with Hany this year was being able to keep my weight down throughout the offseason. I am usually known for getting very heavy in the offseason, hence the name 'Hoss' and it has worked to date in helping me obtain size, usually 5-10lbs a year since I started. The problem with this is now that I am at a higher level if I keep doing what I was doing and eating mass quantities of food at each sitting my stomach is going to start growing with the rest of me. That's why this year we kept meals small and my weight in check, although only time will tell if it was the right way to go when I hit the stage.
The other great thing about growing into the show so far has been being able to eat more while dieting. For instance, right now I am eating about 350-500g of carbs depending on the day so I am still relatively nice to people..lol. I am going to try and keep my demeanor a little more civil this year, being hungry isn't really an excuse to be an ass.
Training this year is really different for me. So far I am only doing cardio six times a week which is nice but I have three days where I train with weights twice a day. This is new for me, I have never done more than one training session a day and those three days are really taking it out of me. To counter that I am only training with weights five days a week instead of my normal six so I think it balances out in the end. The other main difference is we are doing anywhere from 30-40 sets per bodypart so its fine now but I wonder as I get down in carbs and low on energy how its going to feel to get through that. Like I said its all new and you guys can come along for the ride.
Overall I think it was a good offseason and I am very curious to see what the finished product is. As the last couple weeks have passed I have begun to see small changes in my physique as for as fat loss and that has aloud me to see some of the muscle gains that have come through hard work this year. We'll keep this blog all business but I think most of you know that followed along last prep as I get crazy in the head so does the writing!
If any of you have questions or if there is anything you want me to write about feel free to email me, fouadabiad@gmail.com.

Sacrifice Without Regret,
Fouad 'Hoss' Abiad

Cover Number Two!!

2009-02-15T23:34:00.002-05:00

What's goin on people. I have been busting ass in the gym to bring you guys a new package for 2009. I am really looking forward to the Tampa Bay Pro in August and I wanna say I am not just looking to qualify for the Olympia but it would be nice to get my first pro show win under my belt! I don't like to make predictions so I won't but I will just say, I am past the point of just being happy to be there....I want more! Wantings not enough though so I have been killing myself to put the pieces of the puzzle together.

At one point this past month I had to take a moment to reflect on my career. MuscleMag International decided to feature me on their cover for the second time and I was really excited about that. I think the cover turned out great (if I might say so myself...lol), thanks to Paul Buceta for his awesome photography. I don't really know how to express myself about it I guess I just want things to keep rolling the way they are so I gotta keep killin it in the office.

Training is going well. I suffered a minor back injury a few weeks back but after some extensive chiro work I was able to keep smashing the weight without really missing a beat. I am still lifting heavier than I ever have before and I have maxed out the dumbell's for some exercises and some of the machines as well. I guess now I have to break records with reps when it comes to those movements.

My goal this year along with Hany's was to really overhaul my physique by bring up my strong points and making sure the lagging ones weren't lagging anymore. One of the goals was to bring up the quads which I have been killing myself in the gym to do. I am bangin out legs twice a week heavy and high volume and although I am seeing some growth its not what I want yet. I guess it means I just have to keep hammering away and let nature take its course. I seem to be stuck when it comes to the squat at a weight I am trying to break but my body just won't let it happen...its discouraging but I gotta keep reminding myself I am a bodybuilder not a powerlifter, the size will come with time.

Not too much has happened on the personal front. I am toying with the idea of adding a supercharger to my Mustang but still haven't decided if that's what I want or if its better to wait for the 2010 Camaro to hit the road. Maybe you guys should weigh in and let me know what you think. I have always been a Mustang guy so I kinda feel like a traitor looking at the Camaro but man, its a nice ride. If I get it, you guys will be the first to know.

The ASC is a few weeks away now and I am really looking forward to it. I'm not competing in it this year because I just don't feel ready to stand in that line up but I am working a booth there. You guys can find me at the MMI booth or at the Muscletech booth all three days. I will have shirts, pics and DVD's for anyone interested but I am happy to just say hello and snap a pic with you so don't be shy to pop in! Oh, if you see me out at one of the clubs, I wasn't drinking if Hany asks....

Alright, that's about all for today, just a short one to keep you all kinda informed. If there is anything you guys wanna know about that I haven't written about, feel free to email me at fouadabiad@gmail.com and let me know.

New Year, New Strategy

2009-01-09T23:09:00.002-05:00

Hey everyone, I know, I feel horrible its been over a month but I have a lot to go over with you now so its better than getting a boring one every week...right? Anyway, some of you have been busting my balls about updating you on things so here goes.
Okay so you guys know now that Hany is now my nutritionist and things seem to be working better than I could have imagined. Last time we talked I was bitching about my joints being sore and not being able to move. Well its been a little over a month now and my body is really responding and getting used to the heavy pounding of the iron.
I'm wearing Patella Tendon bands for my legs when I train them and the bands seem to really be helping and I have really increased the amount of joint md I am using. On a really positive note I have been breaking some of my old records and I am really happy with the strength gains. Just today I did 8 plates a side for hacks and 4 plates a side for front squats, both things I couldn't do before.
I think the clean eating and taking all my vitamins and minerals everyday is really helping. In the past I was of the impression that I only needed my vitamins and minerals in precontest mode but this year I have kept them in and it may have been the added help I needed to keep me recovering and growing.
On the personal side of things life is finally settling down and things are really falling into place. I just signed a three year deal with MuscleTech, so career wise things are moving in the right direction.
I know I told you guys I bought a condo and man that has been stressful. I took possession back at the beginning of December and the place was in rough shape. I had a friend come in and start tearing it apart. It has been about a month of renovating now but the place is redone from top to bottom. It was decorated by me personally and I must say I think I did a pretty good job...lol, maybe a career in interior decorating after bodybuilding...lol?
Anwyay so that just finished up today and I have all sytems go on the new place. At the same time I just finshed up packaging and sending out all the pre-ordered DVD's. I think the DVD turned out great and I think anyone who watches it will get a real idea of who I am and how I got here which was the reason for making it in the first place. This one was more of an introduction to me and the next one will be the hardcore training vid you guys love so much.
Well, that's about all and I know it doesn't sound like much but with the holidays and the renovations it just seemed like so much. I got out for the holidays and hung out with some old friends and maybe had a little too much fun. I can't be faulted for that though, we all need to let loose once in a while so that's what I did. The fun's over now and its back to work, I need 09' to be my biggest year yet and I have a lot to prove to myself as a bodybuilder. If all goes well and I can stay healthy you guys will see a new and improved Fouad in August at the Tampa Bay show. Till next time...

Sacrifice Without Regret,
Fouad 'Hoss' Abiad

Feels Good To Be Back!

2008-11-30T23:10:00.004-05:00

Hey hey, everyone, whats going on. Things are on a roll again and I am feeling good! It has only been one full week since I have started training again in the gym but man I am feeling like 09' is going to be a good year.
Well, I told you all that I might be hitting the stage soon. After some long deliberation with my nutritionist (Hany Rambod) we have decided that rushing back onto the stage would be a bad career move and wouldn't allow me to be my best. Over the course of my career I have had a pretty good track record of coming back each season better and better and its just too soon. We were thinking of hitting the IronMan Pro show but I told Hany that I had a goal of winning a show this year and I don't think its time....yet.
Hany's main training philosophy is the FST-7 principle which is based on stretching the muscle fascia for more muscle growth. To learn more about the program pick up this months MuscleMag International (I think Johnnie Jackson is on the cover). Anyhow, I started fitting this principle into my workout program this week and I can't tell you guys how sore I am. I'll give you a small example of what I mean. The day after training legs I was sitting around watching TV. I would have to get up to get something but it was like I was getting myself ready for a big set. I couldn't even get up off the couch....to get up, there was a minute of contemplation, then psyching myself up, and finally slowly get up....it was ridiculous and I have a feeling its going to be like that all year. So be it, if that's what it takes to win then it must be done.
Since I am not doing the IronMan I have started eating again. I haven't received my offseason program yet so I have been working on my old offseason program. My weight hasn't really changed but my muscles feel more full again and I look different so I know things are falling into place. Lately I have been eating a lot of ground turkey and ground steak. I was never a fan of turkey but ground up its much easier to cook and eat so its fast becoming a staple in my offseason diet.
On the business end, things really are starting to pick up. My online nutritional business Platinum Nutrition seems to really be taking off. I have many more clients this year and people seem to really be happy with their programs. I enjoy helping people get to where they want to be and when they are serious and don't cheat its very rewarding for me.
The DVD I have been working on is coming along nicely I have finally received my rough copy of the final product from the editor. After watching I decided that you all deserve some nutritional advice so I am going to add a section of cooking and show you all what I eat on the average day in the offseason. It might take a little longer to finish but I know you will all like it more with the added info.
I don't know how many of you all are car nuts but if you have been reading along at all you guys know my car is my baby. Well it looks like the time is near and I am going to have to store her for the winter. Its kind of depressing me but I think its best and it doesn't really make too much sense to be driving around a Mustang in the winter so away she goes. In its place I think I am getting a Jeep Cherokee, not the coolest car but its a 4X4 and since I am like a little kid I'm sure I'll have some off-roading pics for you all to laugh at. Knowing my luck they will be pics of me stuck in the mud or something along those lines.
Okay, that's about it for now. I have to ice my elbows, after that FST-7 training on my triceps I feel like my elbow is blown out. Don't worry its not the program, I had bad elbows to begin with. That's what you have to do when you get to this level, train with the pain because there is no time to waste....

Sacrifice Without Regret,
Fouad 'Hoss' Abiad

Chompin at the Bit

2008-11-18T21:28:00.002-05:00

Hey everyone, its been a long time I know, I apologize. I have been caught up taking care of other things for the last few weeks and haven't really had time to share new things going on my life. I guess we can start with the training. There is nothing to report...lol...no in all seriousness, there really isn't much to report since I have been off for the last three weeks.
You know, I don't think people in this industry really realize how much they love training until its taken away from the them. I hear people say all the time, 'oh, I don't have time' or 'I'm too tired to go today'. At this point I don't think I will ever say those things again, I miss going to the gym more than anything on earth right now.
I actually started back last Thursday just doing some cardio because I was told I was aloud to get in there for that. Today I couldn't really take it anymore and I just got in and trained calves a little and that alone brightened up my entire day. I think as of next week I will be back into the swing of things 100%.
Even though training has been non existent I have still maintained a bodybuilding diet consisting of chicken, egg whites, ground turkey, rice and oatmeal with the odd cheat meal here or there. I thought eating this way without training would make me fat but it really has simply kept me bigger and fuller than I thought I would be from not training. Today I weighed in at 270lbs, flat and soft..lol.
Things outside of bodybuilding seem to be going well. You guys know I have a habit of buying things, well I finally bought something I can be proud of. All this time I have been renting a condo, well I finally am able to purchase a condo of my own. Its small and by no means a long term dwelling but for the next couple years its perfect. It overlooks the water and definitely will give me a nice view doing cardio every morning on my StairMaster. I guess its going to keep me busy since it needs some minor renovations, you know, paint, carpet, some added fixtures but other than that its all good.
Something I think some of you will like and some of you won't is a piece of art I have been waiting a while to get and I finally got it a couple weeks ago. I don't know if any of you guessed but yes I got new ink. I have a new tat running down the back of my right arm and I apologize to those of you who don't like tats but its something I have wanted for a while and I think it looks just like I imagined it. Once I get back into training and I'm not so scrawny I will get some pics up for you guys to judge for yourselves.
Well, I think that's about it, I know, not too interesting but what can I say its my time off and its boring as hell. One thing I can keep you guys guessing about is when I am going to hit the stage next. I guess all I can say is it might be very soon, keep your eyes peeled to my blog for more info.

Sacrifice Without Regret,
Fouad 'Hoss' Abiad

Tough Pill to Swallow

2008-10-26T23:52:00.002-04:00

Whats up everyone. It has been about four weeks since the Olympia and things seem to getting busier by the day. I have an appearance in Texas in a couple weeks so I am looking forward to that since I have some good friends down that way. Plus, what can I say about those Southerners, they really know how to get it done. Maybe I will hit up MetroFlex just to get that dirty hard work feel that I had the last time I banged out some iron there.
It should be fun regardless but that is only some of the good news. My first DVD, 'Sacrifice Without Regret' should be done soon. We are just putting the final touches on it so I am really looking forward to seeing the final product. I am trying to incorporate some nutritional advice into the DVD but am still unsure how to do it. I think I may just take you all for a walk through my kitchen to show you some of the things I eat and take on a regular basis.
That's really all I got for good news. I have been going through kind of a tough time lately so I have been compensating by shopping again...its my vice what can I do...lol. Although I have to say at least some of my purchases have been smart. I have bought a few things for the home and since I did I thought I would reward myself by buying something for my car...lol. I guess I'm the only person on earth who rewards themselves for buying something by buying something else...how stupid..lol.
The other bad news is I have been ordered to take a rest. I am to take a break for the next couple weeks by order of my trainer. Since I did four shows and I haven't taken a break yet he thought it would be good for my physique and my mental state to take a break now and I don't have a say in the matter. I am a full time bodybuilder and don't really do to much of anything else other than watch TV and shop. If all I can do is buy stuff for the next two weeks, man I am gonna be broke as hell.
The rest should be good for me though. My joints are really starting to get sore now and I found I have really been sleeping a lot of the time, not by choice. I will just be sitting there and find myself nodding off in the middle of the day, so I guess that's my body telling me something. Maybe I will take up yoga for the next two weeks, I'll have to hide out in the back though, I have a reputation to keep...lol.
I have received my first start up program from my nutritionist and I have to say I feel much better. Its not as much food as I thought it would be but my body feels much better. I guess my fears of the last few weeks getting a new nutritionist were overblown. I thought it was going to be a lot harder than it has been. I get two cheat meals a week and the diet is set up so that I don't ever really get hungry but I think its enough to keep growing.
I have been learning moderation. My cheat meals in the past when I did my own offseason nutrition weren't cheat meals, they were cheat days. I would take a whole day off and eat whatever I wanted. I am learning now that everything doesn't have to be black and white and instead of eating a bucket of ice cream and two large pizzas, I can have a good meal that my body can use and that get back to the program. So far it feels good to have control over myself. I have to try and employ the same technique when I go out...that might not be as easy, I let you guys know how that works out.

Sacrifice Without Regret,
Fouad 'Hoss' Abiad

Gonna Be a Tough Year

2008-10-20T00:34:00.002-04:00

Wow, what a turn since the last time I talked to you guys. In the last two weeks my life has taken a drastic turn in what I hope will be the best decision of my life. I have decided that I will work with a nutritionist all year and I have chosen Hany Rambod to be that guy. I think his focus on his athletes and attention to detail will really help me get the most out of my physique.
That being said, my god I am in for hell this year as is everyone around me. From what it sounds like Hany is going to have me on what seems like a contest diet pretty much year round. No, in all honesty I really don't know what he has in store for me other than he doesn't want me to get fat and that starts with dropping the binge weight I have already gained. He has put me on a low carb diet that started about four days ago, the nice thing is I am able to breath again and I have lost ten pounds so I don't feel like a beached whale anymore (maybe a beached baby whale).
I have never really done anything like this. Throughout my career my life has been black and white pretty much. When its time to diet I hit the switch and I bust ass to look as good as I can. When its the offseason then I eat a base diet and then pretty much whatever I want on top. I have never really been meticulous with taking vitamins and I think in the past I might have drank a little too much when I was supposed to be sleeping.
This year will be different. Hany is teaching me moderation and that starts with getting rid of the binging and that means binging with food or alcohol. So this new diet I have is low carb with only a couple cheat meals (that's right meals not days...shitty) a week. Although I am scared of this new philosophy I trust Hany and I am willing to do what it takes to get to the next level. Whats the point in competing if you never get better right.
Ya know its weird. I had all these plans to go on vacation and do a whole bunch of nothing after the show and then I go and hire a nutritionist for the offseason and there is no rest for the wicked. I think I will still get that vacation it just might have to wait until Christmas time or after the New Year.
The other exciting part of working with someone in the offseason is he will be writing my training programs for me as well. This is something I have never had before. I have worked with Chad in the offseason once before but that was just nutrition. This will be the first time I have someone guiding my growth in the gym and I really think Hany will be able to bring up the weak points in my physique.
Enough of all that it gets a little boring after a while...lol. So I have pretty much finished screwing around with my car. Last week I put in a new GPS/DVD system and that has pretty much finished off any major purchases...for a while anyway. Now I have turned my attention to my apartment. I know, I know, who fixes there car before there apartment, what can I say, she's my baby. Regardless I figure its time for a new bedroom set and maybe some new paintings of something to spruce the place up a bit. I have been living as a minimalist for a long time now trying to get my career off the ground and I think I have finally reached a place where I can afford to live a little.
Other than that everything else is pretty much the same. My friends are terrified of this new program because they think if I have to eat clean all year I am going to be a complete ass....they might be right..lol. I do have a little bit of a procedure getting done this week but its kind of a secret so I won't let you guys in on it just yet. All I can say is that it will make my stage appearance a little different, some of you will think better and some of you won't even notice. Anyway, until next week or the week after or until I have something to talk about, train insane and always keep your focus, nothing is more important.

Sacrifice Without Regret,
Fouad Abiad

Back in the Saddle

2008-10-07T02:12:00.002-04:00

Okay, its been a week and it already looks like I have never seen a treadmill in my life. My ass doesn't fit into any of the jeans I bought, my shirts that used to be tight in all the right spots are now only tight on my gut...lol. Man, you work so hard to get it all off and keep it off and then one week of eating and forty pounds later and I don't even look like the same person! No, in all honesty though, most of it is water retention from being on a low sodium diet for so long, my body will balance out over time....I think?..
Anyway, things have been good since the O. People have been very encouraging through email and in person. Everyone has something nice to say about my performance of even the fact that I have achieved that standard for myself. Even though all of the kind words keep me motivated and in good spirits nothing is more motivating than the feeling of standing on stage and NOT being able to compete. Nothing has ever felt worse.
Part of the fire that fuels my sets and reps since the show has been that humbling feeling of the last call out. I took Sunday and Monday off after the Olympia and Tuesday I was back in the gym blasting the weight like never before. The added weight I've gained has made me feel strong again so I am throwing iron around with confidence again and getting mind blowing, skin splitting pumps.....man there is no better feeling. When I put a weight on the bar and get into my set, whenever I feel like I am done that feeling from Firday night at the O replays in my mind so vividly that it makes me train that much harder. I know people are proud of me but I want more from myself!
I think I stayed on a contest diet for so long this year I can't go back to regular life. I am so used to the go, go, go lifestyle of contest prep that now that the time is done I don't know how to relax. I still wake up and go to the gym and do cardio. Then I run errands for a couple hours then later on in the day I go back for my workout. It seems like the only thing about my day that's different is the ten bagels a day I have been tearing through...lol.
I am thinking of working with a nutritionist all year this year. Its something I have never really done before and am unsure if I need to. It seems exciting to me to think that with proper guidance I could go that much further in the sport. For the time being I am writing my own program and it is a little different than last year.
My training is higher in volume and just a little lighter than before, not much though. My diet is more regimented with proper vitamin/mineral supplementation and I actually have added some other supplements to my program that I used before but only sparingly. The NanoX9 from Muscletech was always a favorite of mine but this last week I have been using the Nano Vapour before and during my workout and I think its playing a big part in the good feeling I am getting in the gym.
Food wise I am trying not to eat to much junk but man I love food. It seems like I am getting all the good nutrition I need but then after each meal I end up adding things like M&M's (peanut of course), muffins, cookies, ice cream. I can't help it right now but at least I am getting all the quality too so I don't feel so bad. I'll give you guys a tip that I have been doing this last week and I did a little last year as well. I love cereal (cheerios to be specific) but I am not a huge fan of milk. So I have been buying big boxes of cereal and instead of milk I have been using Nitro-Tech Vanilla RTD's (Ready To Drink) for a milk substitute. It looks like milk and almost tastes like it too, not to mention its an easy way to get my protein in the morning without having to make eggs or anything like that. What can I say, I get kinda lazy in the offseason and what could be better and less work than a ready made shake...lol.
On the career side of things I have wrapped the last session of my DVD and am in the process of editing and polishing it up (don't worry I have a professional doing it, I'm not sitting here cutting it myself)..lol. It should be released in November but if any of you want to buy pre-orders of my DVD email me at fouadabiad@gmail.com or go to my site www.fouadmuscle.com. I think you if you guys like my blog you will like the DVD. It's an honest account of real training sessions, that means you won't see me screaming and throwing weights across the gym, its real. Not to mention you'll see me out at the club (yes big men can dance...lol), the chiropractor's office and bloopers between me and my friends which I am sure so many of you meat heads out there will appreciate.
I am excited for this year, I have achieved most of my goals that I have set out for myself over the course of my career. I have a couple more for next year and I don't know if I already wrote about them but I guess I will tell you all now. I don't normally do this, I like to keep this kind of thing between me and some close friends but here goes. My goals for 09 are to win a small show and crack the top ten at the Olympia. So with that being said I guess I'm gonna take my vitamins and hit the sack, I gotta a lot of growing to do.

Sacrifice Without Regret.
Fouad Abiad

The Mr.Olympia 2008

2008-10-01T13:13:00.004-04:00

I know its been a couple weeks and I am late with my post so I sincerely apologize. I have been bogged down with the final week of the O prep and after traveling and all that good stuff I am finally home and able to take the time needed to explain whats going on in my life.

So, lets get to it. The last week of my prep was good, training was actually more intense than the weeks previous as the show got closer I got more and more excited which showed itself in workout intensity. My weight dropped all the way to about 239lbs so I think I hit the stage at around 242lbs or so which was a couple pounds lighter than the Europa. I think after dieting for so long I lost a couple pounds of muscle which was evident by the scale and by the way I looked on stage at the O.

Its four days after the Olympia now and I am finally able to take it all in and realize what I have accomplished but it wasn't the case right away. Here is an account of my weekend in detail for all of you.

First, I have to thank the Olympia committee for the way the take care of the athletes. For the first time in my bodybuilding career I felt like a professional athlete. My best friend Al came with me from Detroit airport and when we got into Vegas we were immediately amazed at the amount of people in the airport. After searching for a while we found our ride and it wasn't a taxi. The O committee had a limo waiting for me and it was a good feeling knowing they cared that much. The limo dropped us off at our hotel and I the weekend began.

After doing the grocery shopping and cooking out of the way it was time to relax. I had a feeling of constant tension and anxiety the first day there especially because I just didn't know what to expect from everything. It was time to get to the athletes meeting and I was still feeling anxious about things and not very happy just nervous. Then I walked into the meeting. All I thought was 'WOW, I am sitting in a meeting with the best in the world and I am not a spectator. They gave us all the speech about where to be at what time and what not and they kept saying 'You guys are the best in the world, we are here for you'. All I kept thinking was, they're talking about me too!

Thursday it was time for the Press Conference and my nerves were shot. I'm not sure why because I knew the Press Conference was really for the top six but I knew I would have to say something and that was nerve racking, public speaking isn't my thing. Yes I can dance around in a pair of XXS posing trunks but I get nervous saying a few words...lol.

It was exciting though, they lined us up backstage and we had time and all the guys we jawing at each other in good fun. Its amazing the magazines don't portray the guys in the sport the way they really are, there is so much camaraderie amongst them and honesty between them, they are all such good friends. The Press Conference started and I was so nervous I sweat my way through the whole thing...lol..I think I dropped most of my water just sitting there.

That night there was a Meet the Olympians event and it was fantastic. The fans are amazing and so loyal to there favorites. I have a new appreciation for bodybuilding fans and I want to personally thank all of you who came to me for advice or just to give your support. Looking over at Jay's table I saw a glimpse of what I wanted from the sport. Jay Cutler had a line leading to his table as long as the room and we were in a hall so you can imagine the amount of people. One day, one day...

Friday. The day of reckoning. This was the day I was so anxiety riddin about, prejudging was at eight o'clock and I wasn't ready mentally for it but I had no choice, I had to get it together and get out there and preform. I guess in a show of that magnitude you can never really be ready your first time. I pumped up and went out and I thought the individual round went well. Then it was time for comparisons and I had no day dreams of being in the top call outs but as time passed I realized I might not get called out. It was a very humbling experience and I have to tell you its hard riding high from getting the first call out in the previous two shows. Finally I was called out in the last call out and by that time the air had been let out of my balloon and I was hitting poses and feeling worse and worse with each pose. No one wants to be last even if it is the Olympia.

After Pre Judging my girlfriend was the first one to tell me I looked great and she was so proud of me, those words helped keep me from crying even though I wanted to be better for her. My brother had a limo waiting for me so we could celebrate and even though it wasn't a celebration he took me and my entourage out for dinner. I sat and tried to be happy but like I said it was a humbling experience and I wasn't able to fake it too well. My brother pulled me aside at one point in the night and told me to hold my head high and gave some good words of encouragement and love. Good family is important and without them I don't know where I would be. My sister and brother in-law also were there and the love they gave me got me through to the next night.

Saturday was the finals and I was in a little better spirits by that time, Al who wrestled for TNA and had a shot with the WWE gave me a good pep talk before the show and told me to go out and have some fun. I have to say after the hard ship of Friday it was all taken care of in the middle of my routine on Saturday night. I walked out on that stage and took a look into the crowd, there must of been 8000 people in the arena and flash bulbs going off and cheering louder than I have ever heard. At first it made me more nervous and then in the middle of my routine I turned around and took inventory of where I was in my mind and this sort of calm came over me and then I was extremely happy. I began to hit poses with authority and excitement, wanting more from the crowd and giving them all I could. I walked off that stage and I was teared up and feeling like I just accomplished more than I could have ever dreamed. I posed on the O stage and I rocked the crowd!

I sat down backstage by myself and looked around, all the ill feelings were gone and a feeling of elation, calm and joy came over me that I will never be able to explain properly in words. I began snapping pics of the backstage area and taking note of the life I had created for myself. What a feeling.

One of the highlights of the weekend was feeling like part of the boyz when sitting in the backstage area waiting to go on. Both nights Friday and Saturday I had a chance to chill in the waiting area with Dennis James, Melvin Anthony, Dexter Jackson, Craig Richardson and more as they made fun of each other, told stories of guest posings and stories of being onstage at certain shows. They made me feel like part of the group and for a guy who still has some of there pics on my wall at home, it made the entire trip worth it. They are all cool as hell and thank every one of them for treating me with rookie respect.

The finest moment for me came in the athletes meeting when I was talking to Toney Freeman (who was like an older brother to me this year) and I was telling him how awestruck and surreal all of this was. I was telling him I couldn't believe I was there and it was all too overwhelming to put into words. He looked at me and said "You wouldn't be here if you didn't belong here". Those words will carry me through my next year of training and I will make it my mission to be back at the O and hopefully next year I will be standing next to Toney when they make that first callout....

Sacrifice Without Regret.

Fouad Abiad

Two Weeks To Go!

2008-09-15T22:40:00.002-04:00

Whats goin on people?

Lets get down to business first I guess. I am two weeks out from the Olympia now and I have managed to ignore all the polls and the hype so I don't get too discouraged. Instead I have managed to see the show for what it is and that is not only the SuperBowl of bodybuilding but also the All-Star game. So I guess that makes me a bodybuilding all-star ;). A good man told me that and it took me a while to see it that way but I do now and being top twenty in the world at anything has to give me pleasure. Hell, if that doesn't give me any satisfaction than what will?

Anyway, my weight is down to 242lbs today so I am back down to my ideal weight that I was before the Europa. It hasn't been easy and I have to admit these last four weeks have been the most trying of my career. I wake up constantly staring at the ceiling of my bedroom trying to figure out how to get through the night without going on a free for all in the pantry. Somehow I have managed to stay disciplined and I believe it will pay off since my hard work always has in one way or another.

Hitting the 242lb mark also affords me another small piece of satisfaction....no more cardio! Well, I guess that would be the case if I wasn't obsessive compulsive. I can't actually bring myself to not do any cardio, I did a little this morning and probably will do a little tonight too, I just hope I don't wake up even lighter tomorrow. I am pretty sure at this point if I get any lighter I will only be burning muscle.

The gym has been weird for the last week or so. I have been unable for the first time since I started dieting back in June to lift heavy. I just can't muster the strength to get my old poundage's up. Since I am obsessive compulsive I can't leave the gym unless my muscles are screaming in agony. So, instead of doing 14 sets of heavy duty lifting I have been doing 20-26 sets for each bodypart to make up for the lack of weight. Only time will tell if it gives my muscle a worse or better appearance. Looking in the mirror now it seems like everything is all good so I guess I will keep it going for another week.

Enough of business though, you guys can read that stuff in any mag or any other blog. Let me tell you about my neurotic side....lol. I have been craving food for so long that I am actually not craving it anymore. You got it right, I found the answer to all of North America's weight problem. If you just stop eating good food for long enough your brain actually forgets what it tastes like and you don't crave it anymore...lol. Just screwin around. Seriously though, I actually am not really craving any specific foods anymore.

Those of you who don't compete might not understand this but I am craving situations now instead of food. You get to a point when you diet for too long where the food you used to crave no longer becomes the center of your attention. The center of your attention becomes the situations that involve food. For example, I no longer crave pizza, I crave the football party on Sunday's that surrounds the pizza. Or, I no longer crave McDonald's but I crave the road trip where I stopped at every rest stop not to pee but for some McD's because I had that much time. Or, I no longer crave the sushi in Toronto but I crave the laughter that went along with watching the waitresses gasp that I had eaten a boat of sushi made for four. Anyway, I think you guys get the point. Well, those situations aren't far away now and I will make sure I revisit that Sushi place because I think it was as enjoyable for the waitresses to watch me eat all that Sushi as it was for me to eat it...although the owner couldn't have been that pleased...lol

On a much higher note. Today while doing my obsessive behavioural cardio, after about six minutes in where I usually begin to curse the ground I walk on, instead, a warm feeling came over me at a thought I had. I thought to myself, next week I will be standing on the same stage as Jay Cutler and I earned the right to be there...

Sacrifice Without Regret,

Fouad 'Hoss' Abiad

What is Courage?

2008-09-07T23:56:00.003-04:00

I'm three weeks out and I am sitting at my computer at 2:00am not able to sleep. Its not because I am hungry (well maybe a little), its not because I am nervous and its not because I have been up all night partying (although I wish it were). I am up this late and writing this blog because there are some things on my mind I need to express to you all.

People think bodybuilding is an easy sport, you just hit the gym, eat your food, take your supplements and the next thing you know you are standing on the Olympia stage. People also think that bodybuilders are weak minded and have self esteem issues. Well, in my two years as an IFBB pro I have learned that nothing could be further from the truth of either of those things.

The latter of those two points is the one I want to touch on. As an amateur I had the privilege of being able to win my first couple shows and also win my class a few times. As an amateur you enter each show expecting to win or if not expecting at least being able to imagine winning. This makes it easy to really train hard, diet and focus since you know anything can happen and you have a chance of winning. This is great for a bodybuilders contest prep but does nothing to strengthen you mentally for what lies ahead if you ever do break into the higher levels of bodybuilding.

I am three weeks out from the biggest show of my life and I have finally come to the realization that mental toughness is actually a pro bodybuilders most overlooked attribute. I say this because I have entered five IFBB shows now and haven't won any of them. The crazy thing is I knew I wasn't going to win any of them and yet I still trained to my full extent with every intention of winning or placing. That is the courage to fear losing yet still be your best and accept your fate.

Somehow today I realized why this show is different from the rest. I have had to reach deep into my soul for a toughness and focus I didn't think I had to get ready for this show. You would think it would be the easiest one seeing as it is the Mr.Olympia contest, but your wrong for that exact reason. For the first time in my pro career I have to get ready for a contest and train my hardest knowing I may not even crack the top ten. I didn't realize how hard a task this would be until I started but it is wreaking havoc on me mentally. There is a new level of courage I have taken on in doing this show because never before have I trained this hard to potentially be 15th.

This is why I say bodybuilders have a mental toughness that is commonly overlooked. In no other sport do you find athletes pushing themselves to the limits knowing they won't win. In football when the other team runs up the score more times than not you see the losing team fade and begin to give up. This is the opposite in bodybuilding. I am going into this show knowing I can't win and yet I have to train harder for this loss than I have ever trained for any of my wins. The other side to this coin is an even greater testament to bodybuilders everywhere. We train and diet and we compete. We lose but we never stop. Why? There is something in our hearts that tells us if you keep pushing, if you keep training your time will come....that is mental toughness that is unmatched. That is courage...

Sacrifice Without Regret,

Fouad 'Hoss' Abiad

Four Weeks Till the Big Dance

2008-09-01T16:47:00.003-04:00

Hey everyone,

I missed last week because my brain was a mess from eating at buffets and trying to decide what I should do about the biggest show of my life. I decided that since it is the biggest show of my life it doesn't make to much sense to skip it.
Last Monday I returned to my office (the gym) and got my ass in gear on the step mill. When I weighed myself in the morning before my cardio I was a watery, fat, 276lbs. Eating at buffets and your soon to be mother in laws house for a week straight will do that to you. I gained an unhealthy 30lbs in just one week and now it was time to get it all back off.
So, literally, one step at a time I began to take it off. Chad got me back on my diet last Monday and I got myself back in the gym working hard. I have good training partners, one of which is getting ready for the Canadian Nationals so staying on the diet and getting into the gym has been relatively easy in terms of motivation.
I feel a little burnt out I have to admit but it is an honor to stand on the O stage and I really am pushing myself mentally and physically to bring the best package I can bring. This last week of training has actually been very intense and has rekindled the fire I had when I started this precontest season. Training at Metroflex with Johnnie Jackson, seeing Flex Lewis' work ethic and watching Branch Warren tear through iron like it was tissue has made me realize what real hardcore is. It brought new meaning to the term, 'when you think your training hard, someone else is training harder'. Those guys in Texas were animals. I'm sitting here in my air conditioned heaven while they're out there in the sweltering heat building physiques cut from stone. So I brought some of that mentality back with me and my training has been on fire.
Sleeping is a sad state of affairs for me. I go to bed only to wake up two hours later, not able to fall back asleep for hours sometimes. Its choppy and very light but I am getting as much as I can for now.
The diet has been pretty easy. I ate so much food after the Europa that I think I made myself sick of eating and actually was glad to get back on the diet. It has been one week and I have dropped twenty-three pounds......can you say water weight...lol.
So I am back down to 253lbs this morning and with another 8-10lbs to drop before the O things are moving in the right direction. Sometimes I have to pinch myself because I can't believe I am going to be standing on the Olympia stage. I remember it like it was yesterday, standing on the Windsor Cup stage at 21 years old. Sometimes I don't believe it and I am not sure I will until I actually get on the stage and feel what its like to pose with the best in the world.
Just a final thought to try and really express my feelings about it. A few nights ago I was on YouTube watching some of Kevin Levrone's posing video's. Now I always get nervous before shows but not because of the crowd, more so because of the competition and wanting to do well. This video brought about a new nervousness though. At the start it shows the camera behind him just as he is about to pull the curtain to get onstage. As he opens the curtain all you see is a see of people and camera's flashing. I just realized I will be going from posing in front of 500 people to posing in front of 10,000 people! Like I said a whole new ball game and an entirely new nervousness. I can't wait.....

Sacrifice Without Regret,
Fouad Abiad

O, O, OMG.....I'm O Bound!

2008-08-19T20:38:00.005-04:00

Hey everyone its about two days after the Europa and I am fatter than I was in the middle of the offseason..lol. Just playin but it feels like it for sure. I just finished my last day of shooting yesterday with MuscleTech and they were so nice to take me to the nicest buffet I have ever been too. Like that's what I needed was a buffet. Needless to say I ate enough for a small village and will never forget my night at the Brazillian Steakhouse which I am not too good to call a fine dining buffet, something I never thought I would see. Its actually a nice enough place to take a date as long as you can control yourself from refilling your plate six times like I did...lol
Last week was crazy, my head has been spinning and I have actually been so hard at work I haven't had a chance to sit and really think about the things I got to do last week or the things I accomplished.
After the last blog I told you guys I had a ton of work to do and that's what I did. I met a good friend of Steve Kuclo's down in Dallas named Max who was a stand up guy for sure. He was there to train with me and drive me around to get things I needed for the show and I will never forget his kindness for sure. Hope your shoulder injury gets better buddy. After slaving away on the hotel cardio machines Sunday and Monday morning, Max picked me up on Monday night and we went to Gold's to train. I tore it up. I have never trained that hard four days before a show before, I mean it was leg day and I was doing, squats, hacks, leg press you name it. All things I wouldn't normally do that close to a show but it just felt right.
Monday night I hit the cardio again as hard as I could and went to bed knowing I was going to be at the most hardcore place on earth the next day...MetroFlex Gym, shooting with Johnnie Jackson for MMI. I woke up Tuesday at 6:00am, smashed some cardio made sure I looked good, put on my little black booty shorts and headed out with my best Zoolander face on. When I got there I realized I had arrived in a place where being tired or slacking just wasn't aloud. The music was deafening and the dirt and dust in the machine made it hard to breath but the sound of DMX booming through four 20" subs was enough to make your blood boil and ready to train.
The MMI shoot was a fly on the wall shoot meaning me and JOJ got to train as if we were alone and the photogs just shot around us. Needless to say me and Johnnie trained back and I had one of the best back workouts I had ever had. It wasn't heavy but just the intensity inside that gym made you squeeze out reps you never thought you had in you. After Johnnie left I shot some Tricep shots and some Hamstring shots and we called it a day.
My day wasn't over however. I had trained Shoulders, Legs and Back and still had to fit in Chest and Arms with only a day left of training. So later on after getting back from the shoot I called Max and he picked up me and my girl and went to the gym to train. We hit Chest, Tris and a little Shoulders and again I had a great workout. For some reason, I don't know maybe it was being in Dallas but I had been training like an animal and loving every minute of it. We got back to the hotel late Tuesday night, I smashed out some more cardio and hit the sack because I had GASP to shoot with in the morning.
Wednesday the 13th. Again I woke up at 6:00am went down and busted out some cardio so I don't disappoint the GASP higher ups. Hopped in a cab and again got to hell on earth; MetroFlex for 8:30am. I shot with my man FLEX Lewis for something like eight hours in that gym and it was about 120 degrees in there. It was a long day but I know we got some good shots so it was all worth it even though I was half dead on the car ride home.
I was all done cardio at that point and training and had began carb loading for the show on Friday. So Wednesday we just went to bed, well I guess you could call it that. I don't think I have had a good nights rest in about 10 weeks but anyway. We woke up Thursday and I thought this girl has been with me going through all this shit and I haven't given her anything in return. So I said to my girl Sommer, lets hit the mall. So Thursday before one of the biggest shows of my life what do I do....I go shopping...lol...what a chick thing to do..lol. I ended up buying a whole bunch of stuff which made me feel better and at the same time I got my girl some new shoes that I thought she really deserved so all in all it was a fun trip.
Friday the 15th. Showtime. I woke up ready for some reason. I looked at myself in the mirror and I was a little nervous about the show but I new I was the best I had been out of all three shows and that I was going to do well. I didn't think I was going to win or nothing don't get me wrong I just knew that I was going to repeat my shape from the week before which was my goal.
Well when prejudging started I realized I had exceeded my shape from the week before because I got the first call out again in a deeper line up. It never fails, I wanted to jump up and down right there I was so excited. I love this sport. Toney Freeman congratulated me right there on stage during the call out and that's where the fun ended...lol. The judges wanted to see me compared to everyone. I was called out first and then second and then forth and then again and again and again, my legs felt like I had ran a marathon. At one point Tarek Elsetouhie pulled me aside and said to me jokingly in Arabic, 'what is this, are they trying to kill us as a joke'....lmao, we had a good laugh about it because he knew I felt the same way and we were called out together almost every time.
Prejudging ended and most people had me anywhere from 3-5th so I was happy and went back to the hotel with Sommer and just chilled out and tried not to think of the possibilities of what could happen the next day.
All I know is I didn't drink a single drop of water and I came back the next day for the finals harder and drier than the night before. I came to battle, I did my routine and then the top five posed down one more time. After our pose down they lined us up and began to read the placings. When they read the forth place name and I was still standing there I thought I was dreaming! I turned to Dennis James and he stuck his hand out to congratulate me and I think I almost ripped it off because I pulled him so hard for a hug thank you..lol. Toney Freeman I think was happier for me than I was for me, I swear he was like an older brother to me the entire weekend.
At that point all I did was try not to cry because I knew they were taking pics. After they were done I walked off stage and the first person I saw was a lady with a 'Press' badge. She looked at me and handed me a folder with '2008 Olympia' written on the front. She said "Here is your Olympia Qualification" and before she could finish saying it I burst out into tears because everything I had worked for, for ten years had finally come true.
Everyone backstage congratulated me and I ended up doing a Bodybuilding.com interview half in tears but I think everyone forgave me for that seeing as it was the biggest accomplishment of my career.
I was on cloud nine but here is the funny part, no celebration. Why you ask? Because I had more shoots!!!...lol. Me and Sommer went to the Cheesecake Factory where I had never been before, BIG mistake, I controlled myself but it was hard. We talked about what I had done and the show, we had a good meal and turned in.
Next morning, up at 7:00am hitting the cardio. Photo shoot with Muscletech at 12:00pm. It went well it wasn't too long but its work regardless. I shot with Darrem Charles and Johnnie again and the more I am around these guys the more I realize how real they are. They really inspire me to be better so I appreciate that.
After the shoot, no celebration. Why you ask? Because I had another shoot!!! Next morning up at 6:00am smashing the cardio making sure I look good for another MuscleTech shoot. Can't disappoint the people who got you there, so I always do my best not to flake out or show up looking sub par (that should be a lesson for you beginners). The shoot was at MetroFlex again, it was about eight hours long and it went really well.
At one point I stopped and zoned out. Imagine this, in one corner is FLEX Lewis shooting with Gaspari, in the other corner Johnnie is shooting with Muscletech, on the four 20" subs Tupac, DMX and Biggie are blaring so loud the only thing I can hear is Brian Dobson and his training partners pounding 500lbs worth of iron off the cement floor...bang....bang....bang. At that very moment I finally realized I was living a dream....

Sacrifice Without Regret!
Fouad Abiad

Tampa Bay

2008-08-11T13:36:00.003-04:00

Its two days after the show and I am trying to get my head back on straight because I know there is a lot of work to do still over the next eight days. The Tampa Bay show ended up being just the kick in the ass I needed to let me know that I still have what it takes to be a competitive IFBB Pro and even more.

I didn't really fill any of you in on the pre-show jitters or thoughts that I had because a competitor usually does his best to block those things out and stay positive. Now that the show has passed I can talk a little about things that go through your mind in the final weeks whether you are an IFBB Pro or simply doing your first local show.

After the Houston show I refocused and decided that I was going to attack Tampa with a full head of steam to try and redeem myself. That being said I still had doubts all through the final weeks of my prep, thoughts of uncertainty if this was really for me or if I had what it takes. Being mentally tough and having courage to me, means having those fears and going through with it anyway, so that's what I did.

All the way up to the final day before the show I was still feeling unsure of myself and uncertain if I wanted to go and feel another disappointing performance. Still I kept to the plan that Chad and I had worked out and decided I would do my best and let the chips fall where they may. In the end the Tampa show proved a few things to me but one most importantly. If I work as hard as I can in the gym I can achieve a level of physique that is competitive and that is enough for me to keep working towards more.

On August 9th I showed up in Tampa with the best package I could bring, it wasn't the best package of the day nor was it the best package that I in vision in my mind of one day having but it was the best I could do with what I currently have. The judges I believe saw that and rewarded me, putting me in the top five along with Darrem Charles, Dave Henry, Dennis James and Toney Freeman, all athletes I look up to and aspire to be like.

Now the show is done and after all the congratulations and good feelings its time to get back to work as next weeks show is going to be even harder than Tampa Bay. Along with the four names I mentioned there are others like Johnnie Jackson and Erik Fankhouser who will be throwing their hats into the mix. Not to mention I have a couple photo shoots lined up, so the good times and celebrating will have to wait for another week or so.

On a lighter side of things I have realized that my militant work ethic that I use to diet isn't so militant...lol. I mean I always listen to Chad Nichols and I always fulfill contract obligations with MT, MMI and GASP since they all are very good to me but somethings when left to interpretation may not be construed the way they were meant to be. For example, Chad says to me I can have a good meal after the Tampa Bay show and enjoy myself. These words were like death to my conditioning. I went out after the show to this meal:

Large Plate of Nachos

Tortellini

Chicken Avocado Salad (extra large)

Extra Large Fudge Sundae

Large Cookie with Double helping of Ice Cream

That was one meal!!! Whats wrong with me. I woke up the next morning and my head was shaped like a basketball with two slits in it that my eyes could barely see through. I said to myself its okay I'm sure the other guys did the same thing. So I go down for breakfast, I wasn't gonna eat much just some eggs and cereal and you know a healthy breakfast but not really a diet breakfast. I see Toney Freeman, down there and he looks like he is still on stage. Chiseled face and all....later I see Dave Henry with the same look. So I am starting to wonder, am I really a bad bodybuilder, these guys stay strict and I'm off stuffing my face. Then I see Nicole Ball (she won the women's BBing the night before) and she also looks shredded still. So I say to her, wow you still look great didn't you have anything sloppy to eat last night, she says 'I had a muffin and a coffee with cream in it'..???OMG a muffin and a coffee! After hearing that I felt like the worst bodybuilder ever and needless to say it got me right back on track.

I got into the hotel here in Dallas on Sunday and started busting ass on the cardio machines and it will continue until I work off that glutenous meal I decided to have without thinking. Anyway, just a little tip for you guys, when someone says 'if you think you're working hard someone else is working harder', I just learned that saying is all too true.

Sacrifice Without Regret,

Fouad Abiad

Final Week

2008-08-04T05:32:00.002-04:00

So, its 5:34am and I can't sleep, can any of you guess why? That's right I am absolutely starving and I also can't seem to get out of my head that I didn't write my blog this week. It seems that when I am this crazy into the diet every little loose end needs to be tied up or I just can't seem to relax. So I figure now is as good a time as any to get my ass up and write you guys some nonsense about my week. As for the starving part, I already took about ten minutes staring into the fridge and realized god hasn't created any calorie free foods since yesterday and closed the door, I feel much better now....

Anyway, training is going as well as can be this week. I mean if you are doing everything correctly you can't expect to be lifting record numbers at this point. Actually if you are doing everything right you should just be happy to really get through the number of sets and reps you have set out for yourself. That's pretty much where I'm at. I get to the gym, take a deep breath and plow through set after set without thinking about it until I am done. If I stop to think I am finished, stopping means restarting again and at this point I can only get myself fired up once.

Cardio sessions are actually much better than I thought they would be. I have a StairMaster at home so I do my morning empty stomach cardio at the gym and I do my night cardio in my apartment. It works out well for me that way, they are only two thirty minute sessions since I was already in pretty good shape from the last show.

Food. What can I say about food, its the ultimate drug. I find myself sitting and daydreaming about foods I used to eat as a kid for some reason. I think my emotional attachment to food is unhealthy....ya think...lol. I was telling my girlfriend this story just the other day. As a child growing up with four siblings and a father who was a welder and a mom who was a stay at home mom, things were a little on the poor side. I mean don't get me wrong we always had everything we needed but never the extras that most kids have.
Growing up the only cereal in the house was Corn Flakes, no Reece Puffs, Fruit Loops, Cap'N'Crunch, none of that. So I used to add my own healthy dose of sugar to the Corn Flakes to make me feel like a kid...lol. Anyway one of my favorite things to do growing up was to fill like a big Salad bowl full of Corn Flakes, cover them in milk and sugar and then throw them in the fridge. I know, I know that's gross but Oh so good. Everything gets all soggy and the Corn Flakes soak up most of the milk. After about thirty minutes in the fridge its time to put in a good movie, watch a football game or whatever and just enjoy.
Point is I have come to realize that the Corn Flakes taste like shit but the point is I have been daydreaming about food so much I have even started dreaming about food all the way back in my childhood. I know, I need help...lol.

This last week is all about focus though and finishing up the last bits of work to make sure I look my best. I have already started to pack for my two weeks away and my hair and wax appointments are coming up. Oh yeah that should be fun, I'm getting my body waxed, don't worry its only gonna take about five hours...lol. I already asked the esthitician if she could stop in the middle so I could eat a meal...lol. As for my hair on head it shouldn't take too long to get through that part of things since most of it is slowly going away. I haven't decided how I am going to cut it yet but there isn't too many choices when its falling out faster than its growing so I will let the hair stylist do her thing and hope for the best.

I guess that's about all the rambling I have this week. I have cut my music, almost packed and have done all my homework. Now I just have to go write the test and see if I pass. The Olympia qualification has still be out of reach to date so I'm gonna see if I can make that happen this weekend. Be sure to watch as I think it will be web cast on Pro Bodybuilding Weekly. Okay its 6:00am now, I'm gonna go drink a ton of sugar free Kool-Aid and hope that gets me back to sleep!

Sacrifice Without Regret,
Fouad Abiad

Refocused and Ready for Battle!

2008-07-27T20:09:00.003-04:00

Whats going on everyone. It has been a tough road to this point for many different reasons but things seem to be coming together nicely. This week was one of reflection and refocus. After the Houston Pro Show I realized I hadn't dealt with my poor performance. This week I took some time out to think about what happen and how I can make it better in the future, I also took some time to let it go!
I am two weeks out from the Tampa Bay Pro Show now and I am tighter than I was for Houston already. I weighed in this morning at 245lbs and plan on dropping more if I can. One of the mistakes I made leading to Houston was playing the size game but not trying to catch any other athlete but more so with myself. I wanted to come in as big as I could and still be in shape, the problem was I didn't have my shape that I was recognized for last year.
So what am I doing differently you ask? When it comes to training in the gym with iron I have tried not to change anything. That is one equation that I will not mess with. I still am lifting as heavy as I can and trying to keep the volume as high as possible without over doing it.
Cardio has gone a drastic overhaul and if someone asks me after the show what I did differently, cardio will be the main culprit. I have gone back to basics with my cardio, in the past I have never been a treadmill or bike kinda guy. I always stuck to my old companion the Stepmill or Gauntlet, that's the moving stairs for those of you who don't know. For the Houston Chad and I had my cardio set up at 45min once a day first thing in the morning. I was on the treadmill the entire prep because I was seeing my weight drop so I thought it was all the same. Man, do I stand corrected. Being on the Stepmill the last couple weeks has really etched in some of the lines in the lower body I am really known for, it burns like a bitch especially when you trained legs the day before but it has to be done. The second change to my cardio was splitting my cardio into two sessions which is also something that I have always done. I am doing two 30min sessions instead of one long 45min session. The extra 15min isn't really whats doing the trick, its more the timing. First session is done on an empty stomach in the morning and the second session is done just before my last meal, which has no carbs in it by the way. So essentially I am burning most of the small amount of carbs I have had during the day and going to bed with my metabolism cranked. Welcome to the world of no sleep...
Now, there is some good news. Like I said I am refocused and am void of distraction. For the Houston I was always looking for food, I just wanted to eat all the time and I don't know why because I am not that kind of dieter. I generally flip the switch and then there is nothing left to do except follow the plan. For this show, I have gotten that militant attitude back. My girlfriend came here this weekend and I even cooked her my famous Penne with Blush sauce (which if you didn't know I would kill anyone of you for if it wouldn't hurt my show prep...lol). So as far as food goes it has become more for fuel again and less for fun, I guess getting mopped at a show will help you realize whats important.
On the same not my girlfriend has become more understanding of my situation and she actually doesn't hate me this week so it has been a little easier to focus on the task at hand. I know it has to be hard on them dealing with our cranky asses, so I have been doing the best I can also to make her life less miserable. Its a two way street I guess but either way you look at it, if we are okay I can think more clearly about the things I need to be doing.
I have also been trying much harder to be nicer to the people around me, be it, close friends, family or just the dude in the gym who was in the wrong place at the wrong time...lol. Its a tough thing to do but a conscious effort has to made or I will drive everyone crazy.
On the crazy side of things, I have also curbed my craziness into one corner I think. I used to be on the net buying anything and everything I could get my hands on. Lately though it seems to be all directed toward my car. This I don't feel so bad about. My car is like my hobby or my release and since I can't go out and have a few drinks then I might as well enjoy modifying my car. I have an 05 Mustang GT and this past week I had it lowered, this coming week I am adding a few more goodies to it. When its done I will give you guys a good shot of it so you can email me some of your opinions.
Anyway, now I am rambling. The Tampa show is going to have the like of Dennis James, Darrem Charles, Toney Freeman and Mark Dugdale to name a few so I guess you guys see what I am getting at. If I stand a chance against these Olympians I better show up at 100% or else I will just be another fan but with a better seat than most. To all of you getting ready for the North Americans or the Canadian Nationals, keep slammin that weight and to my peers in the IFBB, its all good, have that piece of pie, no ones lookin...

Sacrifice Without Regret!
Fouad Abiad

Too Long in the Hole.

2008-07-20T17:32:00.002-04:00

Where should I start, training, diet, life, craziness, relationships? I guess I will start with the most important reason for this blog and that is training and diet. I haven't had a cheat meal or day in a little while so I am currently pretty close to where I need to be for the stage. I weighed in at 249lbs this morning and I know I only need to get to about 245lbs before I load up. I think Chad is bringing me down nice and slow which is great for the physique but is wreaking havoc on my mental state...lol.
It isn't easy walking around at 3-5% body fat when that isn't what your body is comfortable with. I mean, some guys are naturally shredded so they probably don't feel weak or sluggish on a daily basis but when your naturally supposed to be around 8-10% and you are forcing it down it gets hard to operate.
Needless to say training has been less than stellar over the last week. My training partners tell me we are going hard and I am pushing the hardest I can but it just feels like nothing is happening. I am so used to lifting heavy all the time that when I don't I feel like I am slacking. Anyhow to make up for the lack of weight being pushed I have incorporated some other things into my training like, drop sets, negatives but most of all more volume and almost no rest between sets. There is nothing like doing 30 sets for legs with no rest in between....jeez, it was a good one though.
The diet hasn't changed, I am still on steak, chicken, rice and potato's and like I said before it feels like just enough to keep me alive. There is something I need to explain to those of you who have never been on a contest diet though. The meals haven't changed in a while but I honestly feel like they are getting smaller and smaller. Every time I eat the meal seems to be done before I have even realized it. Good thing there isn't anyone here video taping me, maybe I am simply inhaling my food like a slob and I just don't realize it. Regardless, it seems like its never enough.
On the career front, I finished up my second photo shoot of the year earlier on this week. I think it went well, I was in good shape and felt confident that I gave all I could give. I cut water for the shoot, not drastically like I would for a show but enough so that I couldn't drink water for half a day before and the day of. I don't know how many of you have tried to lift weights when dehydrated but a 45lb plate no longer feels like a 45lb plate, all of a sudden it feels like a wheel of a big rig! The article we shot was a squat article so I have to admit half way through the shoot I was done and I mentally had to push my body through. The shoot was with MuscleMag International and it was for an article and a cover. I have to keep my fingers crossed though because covers are never guaranteed and all it takes is a hot chick with a lot of plastic to give me the bump...lol.
One last thing I have to tell you guys about so you know a little more about the glamorous life of an IFBB Pro. I'll start from the beginning. I need you to know that before Wednesday night I hadn't had a good nights sleep in about 6 weeks. Anyway, so at some of the shows and expos there are fans that are there for autographs, pics and swag and I appreciate everyone one of them but I'm sorry, it stops at my front door.
On Thursday morning I was finally getting some good shut eye when the phone rang at 7am. I ignored it and tried to go back to sleep but no more than 2 minutes later the phone rang again. So I answer it and low and behold its a fan asking me for pictures! I asked him how he got my number and he said he couldn't tell me but he wanted to know if I had some pics for him. I may be 300lbs in the offseason but listen, that shit creeped me out big time. I told him not to call my home ever again, I may have used some other words but that was the gist of it and then I hung up. So get this, the guy calls back right away begging....please can I have some pics he says....I couldn't believe it. I gave him a good piece of my mind and luckily for me he hasn't called since. So anyway I guess that means I am getting somewhere in my career since I have my very own IFBB stalker now?!?
Lets see did I leave anything out. Oh yeah, my social life is in the toilet..lol. My girlfriend hates me again this week, my friends don't call me anymore because I am too much of an ass to them and I haven't been out in three months. I am not a huge party guy or anything but I love a good drink from time to time and lets just say its been a little too long since I got a little release.
All of the complaining above doesn't matter though because I wouldn't trade my career for anything. It is hard but I am doing something I love and even though the working months are really hard, the offseason is all mine. At the end of the day its all about what I am willing to sacrifice....

Sacrifice Without Regret.
Fouad Abiad

Another Week Another Battle!

2008-07-15T14:43:00.002-04:00

Hey y'all, sorry I'm late with this weeks blog, things are a little hectic and I am trying to keep my head on straight while getting ready for Tampa Bay. Thanks again to all of you for your encouragement and thanks for taking the time to read my nonsense blog...lol, half the time I am so depleted I don't even know what I am writing so if it makes sense to any of you then I am well ahead of the game.

Alright lets start with the serious part, the training and diet. Training is still very good since I ate so much after the show it still feels as if my muscles are full enough to lift good poundage's. I am training as heavy as I can, I would say its about 80% of what I lift in the offseason so I am content and don't feel too weak. Most importantly I have really shortened up the rest periods in between so i can really increase the burn and etch in more detail.

The diet, what can I say about the diet, its the same old shit...lol. Chicken, steak, Rice, Potato all in small enough amounts that I am able to stay alive but am barely able to function, gotta love the way the precontest prep really tests what you're made of. I have returned to the weight I was just before dropping water for Houston so I have a few extra pounds to shed and then I should be good. The toughest part now is the waiting game, I can't wait to hit the stage again and try to move up.

Now for most of you up and comers who think BBers have it easy let me give you my schedule for the next little while. I finished a show on the 4 & 5th of July. I have a shoot on the 16th then another show on the 9th of August. From there I shoot again on August 12 & 13th then the next show is the 15th & 16th of August, wait its not over, then I get to shoot again on the 17th, 18th, 19th & 20th.

So what is the point of all that? Don't think its a cake walk because the better you get the more work it takes. I didn't realize when I was coming up, I thought I would turn pro sign a few contracts and then sit on my ass but think again brother, it only gets harder and harder the higher you climb. Mind you I'm not complaining, I love what I do but I am just giving you dreamers a heads up about the reality behind the scenes.

Now aside from the in the gym my life is in shambles. For some reason I can't stay off Ebay, all I do is log on to try to find new things to buy and this is a direct result of the diet because I'm not like this in the offseason. Don't ask me why it makes it easier to diet when you're buying things but it is. So far I have bought a new laptop, home entertainment center, camcorder and I still have three months of dieting left...my god, I'm gonna have to make it big just so I can support my precontest shopping habit...lol.

Anyway, sorry for being late with the blog this week, to all of you who are doing shows coming up, stay strong, don't cheat and keep busting ass in the gym. Remember, when you think you're training hard there is someone killing themselves to beat you too!

Sacrifice Without Regret!

Fouad Abiad

Ready for More...

2008-07-07T23:26:00.002-04:00

Whats up everyone. Its two days after the Houston Pro show and as you all know by now I was seventh place and not satisfied with my placing. Lets talk about getting to the show...lol. My plane left on Wednesday morning for Houston, walking through Detroit Metro airport all I could see was Bagels, Cinnabuns, Chocolate bars and Sandwiches. So after fighting the urge to eat all of those things I found my way to my gate scaring half the public because I am an abnormally large arab man with a mohawk...lol. I do my best to smile but I don't think it helps..lol
I boarded the three our flight in good spirits then we hit a storm, just as we were about to land the plane picks up again and we get redirected only to sit on a tarmac somewhere else for an hour and a half before being able to come back to our original airport to land. So I missed a meal and was pissed. Then the cab ride from Houston airport to the hotel was about forty-five minutes and eighty bucks later and that pissed me off. Then the hotel didn't have a microwave for me that they were supposed to have and that pissed me off. Then I had to change rooms because there was no fridge and That pissed me off. Anyway after all was said and done I was checked in and pretty pissed off.
From there on things turned around. My girlfriend showed up the next day and helped me calm down by helping me prepare food and cleaning up and things like that. I slept a lot Thursday and ate every couple hours making sure I was nice and full for the battle Friday. There in lies the problem, I ate too much. I have added about 8-10lbs of muscle since the last show and trying to fill it out became a chore and I went a little overboard.
I hit the stage on Friday at a full hard 249lbs and I was the first one out to do my free posing, I felt big and hard. After I went off I had to wait for twenty-one other guys to go and as I waited I could feel the pump spilling out over the muscle and I was losing it as I stood there. By the time I was ready to go back out for comparisons I had spilled over and it was evident that I had tried to fill too much.
After all was said and done I received a good crowd response, a good response from bodybuilding insiders and tons of support on the muscle forums to go with my seventh place finish. I am unhappy with my placing but am happy to know that most of the public noticed my gains and sees my potential now its up to me to put it all together in Tampa.
August 9th is just under five weeks away and since I have been eating ice cream and pizza for the last three days I guess its time to get back to work. I plan on hitting the stage in Tampa a big, shredded 244lbs and hopefully this time I won't miss the mark.
So I want to thank everyone of my fans for there support and I also want to apologize for letting you guys down. I know a lot of you made predictions and I did my best to make them come true but I just missed the timing a little, don't lose faith I will be back to show what I am really made of. Thanks for having my back y'all.

Sacrifice Without Regret,
Fouad Abiad

One Week Out

2008-06-28T15:13:00.003-04:00

Oh baby, its right around the corner and I can't wait. The diet is crappy, training is losing its intensity since I am so low on energy but my motivation to keep bangin' is higher than ever. I am currently sitting at 251lbs in the morning, dry and empty. I can't wait to carb up in a few days and see what my body looks like when its not depleted.
The diet has been relatively easy as far as the prep goes (I never cheat) but as most of you competitors know some of my relationships have been strained. I have a tendency to alienate myself from the world when I am dieting. I know its wrong but its the only way I know how to get it done. Most of the people in my life to this point have been around for so long they just ignore me when I'm being an ass but unfortunately I hurt some people in the process. My sister and I had it out because of my stupidity and ignorance, since then she has forgiven me because I admitted I was a jerk. My poor girlfriend has had to deal with a Fouad she's never seen before. We met in the offseason so she knew happy go lucky, buffet eating, fat Fouad, only to run into dieting, regimented, selfish, moody Fouad. I feel sorry for her because I want to do more for her but I just can't make it happen right now. Luckily for me she has endured all the nonsense and will be there for me next weekend.
I have been reading a lot of the bodybuilding boards and have noticed that some people have mentioned me as a top five contender at this show, hell, some even have me winning...lol. I have to admit, I have my daydreams of getting the first callout and winning the show, as a competitor you have to visualize those things. As a realist I also have to visualize the possibility that I may get the last callout, anything can happen and I think one should be ready for anything. At the end of the day its only one battle in a war of a career, so whether I win or lose I have to come back to fight again. Like my dad used to say, as long as you fight your hardest and do your best you will always feel good about yourself.
Personally I feel like this is by far the best I have ever looked. I am as hard or harder than I was last year already but I am ten pounds heavier. I really feel like that extra ten pounds could be the difference between fifth and third, or maybe even first!
Thank you to all of you who supported me, my friends, my family and especially my girlfriend who has been through hell and back and only has a week left till she gets the fat happy Fouad back (even though it will only be for a few days since I have three more shows to do...eek for her).
The next time you guys here from me will be post Houston so wish me luck, I will do my best to represent you Canada. There is nothing left to do now, the music is cut, the posing trunks are packed, the contracts are signed and all the blood, sweat and tears have been shed. All there is left to do is hit the stage and rock the house!

Sacrifice Without Regret!
Fouad Abiad

Two Weeks Out

2008-06-22T22:59:00.004-04:00

Okay, its finally starting to happen. Usually when I diet for a show I start getting weaker around the four or five week mark. This year I have made a conscious effort to lift as heavy as I could for as long as I could leading up to the show. I figured this would help keep more muscle as well as keep me more full and for all intensive purposes it has worked.
Finally at the two week mark I am now noticing a significant loss in explosive power. For those of you who compete you know that the last four weeks before a show is all mental. Your mind tries to play tricks on you, telling you that you are too small or too weak, that your losing too much weight, that your not doing enough, etc., etc., etc... The ones who can control these thoughts and stay focused are the ones who become champions.
The hardest part of controlling that mental fight is when you are ready to step on stage but still have to wait. Now at the two week mark, I am ready. My weight this morning was 255lbs and I believe after dropping water I could hit the stage in the best shape of my life. The problem is now I have to wait two weeks and control my mind so I don't deviate from my program. So on the diet end things are smooth and couldn't look better right now, I just have to lift a little lighter so I don't hurt myself.
This week was good for career highlights. I found out this week that I will be doing a photo shoot at MetroFlex in Texas in a few weeks with Johnnie Jackson. My favorite gym of all the ones I have been at is Gold's Venice and I have always wanted to train at Temple Gym in England but MetroFlex will come into a close third and will be a highlight of my career to this point. JOJ is a great bodybuilder and to be part of that shoot with him will be as rewarding as the venue.
The Ontario Championships (provincial show) were this weekend and I had a chance to attend since I had a client and a friend competing in the show. I want to thank any of you who were there and are reading this for all your support and kind words. I don't think some of you understand the significance of your support. For some of you to tell me I am an inspiration and that you read my blog every week made this all worth it. Some others told me that they were counting on me to put Canada back onto the bodybuilding map. That's a ton of pressure but so flattering I will do everything in my power to be the one to represent Canada in the bodybulding world and show people that us Canucks can bang with the best!

Sacrifice Without Regret!
Fouad Abiad

Three Weeks Out

2008-06-16T01:11:00.003-04:00

Well....I am three weeks out now and officially going crazy. Well I was until today. For the last few years of my career I have been used to seeing the scale drop from day to day or week to week as I diet. This year something strange is happening, for the last three weeks my weight has barely moved between 265-260lbs but my physique seems to have changed dramatically. I don't think I could be gaining muscle at this rate so I am not sure what to attribute this change to but who's complaining..lol.
I know you all want to see pics and progress but for the sake of competitive mystery I am going to hold out until after the show then I will post them in succession for you to observe the small changes from week to week.
This week brought some new and promising changes though. I have been looking for an apt. in the Toronto area since I am finally making the move from my hometown of Windsor. I found an apt. online and have just now seen the pictures and I have to say it could be my new home. Its a little nerve racking moving from my hometown since I will have to find new training partners and basically new everything, doctor, mechanics, ect....but its something that has to be done so cross my fingers and hope for the best.
Another new endeavor that has been a little bit of a challenge while dieting has been my pursuit of becoming Canada's only GASP clothing distributor. I am contracted with GASP but since I liked there clothing so much I really felt other bodybuilders should have the advantage of having there clothing as well. GASP currently doesn't ship to Canada but I am aim to change that in the near future.
Keep checking back and I will have a site for all you canucks to order from soon enough. The diet changes to fish and low carbs this week so if next weeks blog is a little crazy sounding you'll know why, thanks for checking in!

Sacrifice Without Regret,
Fouad Abiad

Four Weeks Out

2008-06-08T20:48:00.004-04:00

Well, its a month from show time and I am starting to feel the excitement, anxiety and pressure all at once. This is a small show for the IFBB but a big show for my career and after finding out Silvio Samuel is doing this show I have really begun to visualize callouts. If I end up in a callout with Silvio its all in the judges hands but at least I will be ready mentally.
Contest prep has been strong this week, I'm still not that hungry and still around 265lbs. I feel like I am getting harder and drier as the days pass but the weight isn't changing much so the scale is making me play mind games with myself. Part of a bodybuilders prep is the mind games he/she must endure the final weeks before a show. Those who can focus will succeed.

Career wise I received an incredible push from the Houston Show promoters since they decided to put me on their show poster as a headliner. This is a big deal for me since me and Silvio are the only bodybuilders on it.
This week I also finished filming another installment to my DVD (coming soon). This week we filmed a good Hamstring and Calve workout and with only a few sessions left to go it should be complete sometime after the Olympia so keep your eyes peeled.

Consistency is Key,
Fouad Abiad

Whats Up All

2008-05-30T16:35:00.002-04:00

Well its May 30Th and I am one day short of five weeks out from the Houston Pro Show. This will be the first show of the 08' for me but will not be the last. The diet has gone well so far I am currently weighing in at 265lbs and hope to hit the stage around 245-250lbs.
Hunger is becoming an issue but I am being diligent in my diet and am trying to bring my best to the show. Fortunately for me I have a cheat day tomorrow so I think Pizza Hut, Burger King, Taco Bell and many more will be getting a visit from me...lol.
I also got a call today from my agent in Toronto about a commercial audition. What commercial you ask? Its a lollipop commercial..lol, that's all they told me. Hey I guess not all of us can be Arnold, some of us have to start with commercials, baby steps.
Check back in the coming weeks for more show prep updates as well as an update on my budding TV/Movie career.

Sacrifice Without Regret,
Fouad Abiad