Dozens of elite athletes gathered in Johannesburg, South Africa, on May 21-24 for the 2026 Rebel Renegade Games CrossFit Semifinal. The four-day competition consisted of nine events in total, putting the athletes through a series of workouts designed to test all aspects of their fitness. Featuring just one qualifying spot in each division, the battle for the title became even more intense. Ultimately, Ben Fowler and Hannah Black climbed to the top of the podium.

2026 Rebel Renegade Games CrossFit Semifinal Results

Men

Ben Fowler emerged as the convincing winner in the men’s division of the 2026 Rebel Renegade Games CrossFit Semifinal. He never placed lower than fourth across any of the nine events and ended up beating his closest rival by over 100 points, essentially winning the competition even before the competition concluded. As a result, Ben has qualified for his first Individual CrossFit Games, but he has previously made one appearance in the teams division. Ruan Potgieter and Jan Arnd Finkenberg rounded out the top three overall.

1. Ben Fowler — 875 points (Qualified)
2. Ruan Potgieter — 767 points
3. Jan Arnd Finkenberg — 743 points
4. Max Krieg — 723 points
5. Tiago Luzes — 702 points
6. João Pedro Barcelos — 659 points
7. Mike Van Tonder — 630 points
8. Joshua Hong — 601 points
9. Marcello Clarizio — 582 points
10. Kealan Henry — 578 points
11. Chris Ngoma — 568 points
12. Carlos Labarthe — 543 points
13. Dane Naude — 543 points
14. Matthew Ritzlmayr — 533 points
15. Muanda Elias — 520 points
16. Williams Rios — 519 points
17. Mark Nangle — 481 points
18. Kaiden Steyn — 473 points
19. Meysam Rohani — 446 points
20. Joshua Kernot — 434 points
21. Marlo Prinsloo — 429 points
22. Willem Snyman — 419 points
23. Ibrahem Magdy — 413 points
24. Benyamine Boujar — 370 points
25. Jack Laker — 360 points
26. William Carter — 331 points
27. Joseph Harrison — 327 points
28. Hennie Terreblanche — 311 points
29. Julian Liebenberg — 285 points
30. Hamza Mahir — 271 points
31. James Van Dongen — 258 points
32. Keagan Lazarus — 245 points
33. Jacque Gericke — 220 points
34. Schalk Burger — 213 points
35. Rurik Lucena — 205 points
36. Trent Strydom — 197 points
37. Osama Abouzeid — 185 points
38. Jason Dicks — 172 points
39. Reinhard Van Der Westhuizen — 169 points
40. Keegan Cohen — 145 points

Women

Hannah Black accumulated 905 out of the maximum possible 950 points, showcasing incredible consistency across all events against a number of world-class athletes. Similar to Ben Fowler, Hannah has made one CrossFit Games appearance in the teams division, but she is now set to make her debut as an individual athlete.

Var Thormann-Moe and Matilde Garnes also put up incredible performances, proving just how stacked the roster at the 2026 Rebel Renegade Games CrossFit Semifinal. Unfortunately for them, only Hannah Black qualified for the 2026 CrossFit Games, which means that they will have to appear and perform in some of the remaining Semifinals if they want to reach the final stage.

1. Hannah Black — 905 points (Qualified)
2. Var Thurmann-Moe — 852 points
3. Matilde Garnes — 830 points
4. Tanha Bouffe — 794 points
5. Inga Loftesnes — 726 points
6. Elzaan Troskie — 710 points
7. Rosalie Belanger — 700 points
8. Brittany Anderson — 697 points
9. Evie Hollis — 635 points
10. Gilmari Reyneke — 618 points
11. Leeverne Engelbrecht — 581 points
12. Chane Spangenberg — 572 points
13. Ellie Workman — 557 points
14. Mariska Barnard — 541 points
15. Charlotte Davies — 535 points
16. Salome Boveda — 521 points
17. Emma Morgan — 497 points
18. Ashton Finkel — 497 points
19. Jenna Goldie — 479 points
20. Marike Hartman — 426 points
21. Malin Henriksson — 399 points
22. Rasha Moharram — 394 points
23. Tinei Langridge — 366 points
24. Robyn Leigh Wilson — 363 points
25. Melanie Verlinde — 351 points
26. Maria Tadic — 344 points
27. Rachelle Du Plessis — 327 points
28. Rika Marx — 314 points
29. Kylie Wolhuter — 309 points
30. Shimonique Verster — 287 points
31. Jessica Ubisse — 232 points
32. Leah Jacobs — 220 points
33. Sheree Ogle — 219 points
34. Maia Rawlins — 199 points

Related: 2026 Torian Pro CrossFit Semifinal Results — Ricky Garard & Madeline Sturt Win

Event One

10 rounds for time:

• 3 Clean and Jerks (61/43)
• 3 Bar Facing Burpees

Men’s Results

1. Ben Fowler — 00:02:43
2. Dane Naude — 00:02:53
3. Ruan Potgieter — 00:02:54

Women’s Results

1. Matilde Garnes — 00:02:57
2. Evie Hollis — 00:02:58
3. Var Thurmann-Moe — 00:02:59

Event Two

For time:

• 40 cal Bike Erg

Into

• 3 rounds of
• 21 Toes to bar
• 15 Deadlifts (120kg/80kg)
• 9 Wall Walks + wall facing handstand push up

Men’s Results

1. Ben Fowler — 00:10:47
2. Jan Arnd Finkenberg — 00:11:57
3. Carlos Labarthe — 00:12:24

Women’s Results

1. Var Thurmann-Moe — 00:12:48
2. Tanha Bouffe — 00:13:02
3. Hannah Black — 00:14:28

Event Three

2-2-2-3 (1min rest between)

• 18 Chest to Bar Pull Ups
• 12 DBL DB STOH (22.5/15)
• Max Box Jump Overs(36/30)*

*Until 75 reps are completed

Men’s Results

1. Ruan Potgieter — 00:07:07
2. Ben Fowler — 00:07:32
3. João Pedro Barcelos — 00:07:36

Women’s Results

1. Tanha Bouffe — 00:07:10
2. Hannah Black — 00:07:14
3. Var Thurmann-Moe — 00:07:15

Event Four

3-minute windows for

• Max Double Unders (unbroken)

2-minute rest

2-minute window for

• Max Ring Muscle Ups

2 min rest

1 minute window for

• Max Front Squats @ 110kg / 75kg

Note: Double Unders, Ring Muscle Ups, and Front Squats were scored separately despite being completed in succession, with 50 points available per section.

Men’s Results (Double Unders)

1. Ruan Potgieter — 335 reps
2. Tiago Luzes — 329 reps
3. James Van Dongen — 327 reps

Women’s Results (Double Unders)

1. Var Thurmann-Moe — 344 reps
2. Evie Hollis — 340 reps
3. Hannah Black — 321 reps

Men’s Results (Ring Muscle Ups)

1. Marcello Clarizio — 31 reps
2. Ben Fowler — 28 reps
3. Dane Naude — 28 reps

Women’s Results (Ring Muscle Ups)

1. Matilde Garnes — 23 reps
2. Leeverne Engelbrecht — 20 reps
3. Hannah Black — 20 reps

Men’s Results (Front Squats)

1. William Carter — 23 reps
2. João Pedro Barcelos — 22 reps
3. Max Krieg — 20 reps

Women’s Results (Front Squats)

1. Rosalie Belanger — 24 reps
2. Var Thurmann-Moe — 20 reps
3. Inga Loftesnes — 19 reps

Event Five

For time, three rounds of:

• 1,000-meter Row
• 1,000-meter Ski

Men’s Results

1. Max Krieg — 00:21:17
2. Ben Fowler — 00:21:24
3. Mike Van Tonder — 00:21:31

Women’s Results

1. Var Thurmann-Moe — 00:23:13
2. Hannah Black — 00:23:42
3. Inga Loftesnes — 00:24:07

Event Six

For Time

• 2/1 Seated Legless Rope Climbs
• 15 Bench Press — 70/48
• 2 Shuttle Runs
• 4/2 Legless Rope Climbs
• 15 Bench Press — 70/48
• 2 Shuttle Runs
• 6/4 Rope Climbs
• 15 Bench Press — 70/48
• Shuttle Run to Finish

Men’s Results

1. Max Krieg — 00:04:03
2. Jan Arnd Finkenberg — 00:04:28
3. Ben Fowler — 00:05:08

Women’s Results

1. Matilde Garnes — 00:03:57
2. Hannah Black — 00:04:23
3. Elzaan Troskie — 00:04:24

Event Seven

• One-Rep Max Snatch

Men’s Results

1. Jan Arnd Finkenberg — 140 kg
2. João Pedro Barcelos — 137 kg
3. Kaiden Steyn — 135 kg

Women’s Results

1. Hannah Black — 96 kg
2. Rosalie Belanger — 92 kg
3. Matilde Garnes — 87 kg

Event Eight

For Time

• 20-cal Hurricane Bike
• 40 wall balls
• 20m handstand walks (1 pirouette every 5 meters)
• 40 wall balls
• 20-cal Hurricane Bike
• 20m handstand walks (1 pirouette every 5 meters)

Men’s Results

1. Ruan Potgieter — 00:05:01
2. Ben Fowler — 00:05:02
3. Matthew Ritzlmayr — 00:05:59

Women’s Results

1. Matilde Garnes — 00:06:06
2. Var Thurmann-Moe — 00:06:21
3. Hannah Black — 00:06:56

Event Nine

For time:

• 30/24 bar muscle ups
• 20 Dual KB hang snatch 24kg/16kg
• 18 meter OH KB lunges 24kg/16kg

Time cap: 6 minutes

Men’s Results

1. Jan Arnd Finkenberg — 00:02:41
2. Ruan Potgieter — 00:03:06
3. Ben Fowler — 00:03:17

Women’s Results

1. Matilde Garnes — 00:02:43
2. Hannah Black — 00:02:50
3. Brittany Anderson — 00:03:02

Related: 2026 French Throwdown CrossFit Semifinal Results — Jayson Hopper & Mirjam von Rohr Victorious

With the 2026 Rebel Renegade Games CrossFit Semifinal over, only three in-person Semifinals, along with one Online Semifinal, remain. So, a large portion of the 2026 CrossFit Games roster has already been filled out, meaning that the battles for the few remaining spots will be nothing short of spectacular.

Bodybuilder Samson Dauda takes a simple, pragmatic approach to training, where effort dictates results. In a YouTube video from May 25, 2026, he explained why you don’t need to overcomplicate progress by counting set volume each week. 

Set volume and training frequency are among the biggest challenges in bodybuilding. Competitors from the Men’s Open division are tasked with presenting detail and conditioning onstage without sacrificing muscularity and size. 

In 2025, Samson Dauda was unable to defend his Mr. Olympia title successfully. While he presented a new level of conditioning, he lacked the mass needed to take out Derek Lunsford, Hadi Choopan, and Chinedu Andrew ‘Jacked’ Obiekea.

Dauda has kept training volume and intensity high, as evidenced in his recent arm workout with Larry Wheels. Before preparations for the 2026 Mr. Olympia, the former champion is breaking down why counting weekly set volume might not be necessary. 

Bodybuilder Samson Dauda Says Stop Overcomplicating Weekly Training Volume

In the video, Dauda explained why bodybuilders don’t need to count set volume each week. 

“How many sets per muscle group per week do you do? You really need to stop trying to make bodybuilding too complicated. It is very straightforward. If you have to think and you have to write down how many sets per muscle group you do in a week, then you ain’t ready for this because you don’t understand it.” 

He emphasized that structuring training isn’t complicated and warned lifters against thinking too far ahead. 

“It’s not that complicated. It’s hard in practice, but it’s not that hard in theory. You’re thinking that far and that much and putting numbers together when there’s so many variables to even determine that.

If you’re not taking that into account, honestly, I don’t think you’re ready to do this. You’re trying to find the right numbers that gives you just enough to get you there… that’s not how this works,” said Samson Dauda. 

Dauda hasn’t been the only Mr. Olympia to discuss how progress is affected by weekly set volume. Former four-time champ, Jay Cutler, made it clear that he aims for 12 sets per muscle group throughout the week in retirement. 

“Ideally, I try to do at least four movements now for a body part. If we do four movements, and we do three working sets each, that’s 12 total sets, plus a couple warm-ups, maybe adding one or two here. We end up with just enough, where I used to promote doing 20 sets a body part.”  

While weekly set volume has merit, Dauda believes intuition can go further. Time will tell if his training approach produces results when he returns at the 2026 Mr. Olympia from September 24-27 in Las Vegas, Nevada. 

RELATED: Dennis James, Chris Cormier Urge Andrew Jacked to Grow Bigger Legs, Says ‘90%’ Samson Dauda Would Be Unbeatable at 2026 Mr. Olympia

Watch the full video from the Samson Dauda YouTube channel below: 

Dennis James believes the Men’s Open has steered away from sharper conditioning. In a YouTube video from May 21, 2026, he argued that today’s bodybuilders aren’t as conditioned as those in the 90s. He emphasized that athletes in his era dieted harder and trained more often. 

To succeed in the Men’s Open today, athletes are tasked with presenting a balanced combination of size and conditioning. Samson Dauda, one of the sport’s biggest stars, struggled with this challenge at the 2025 Mr. Olympia.

While he entered the event as the reigning champion, he ultimately fell to fourth place. His pursuit of better conditioning backfired, and he lacked the size needed against shorter, stockier contenders, including Derek Lunsford and Hadi Choopan. Having watched the event live, James is assessing whether athletes boast the same level of detail he witnessed while competing. 

Dennis James Says Today’s Bodybuilders Aren’t Conditioned Like the 90s: ‘We Dieted Harder, We Suffered’

In the video, James spoke about why athletes seem less conditioned today compared to his era. 

“I went through this. I did it myself, and I trained people after I was done with the career, so I know the difference between what we used to do, not all of them, but most of them do today. Not all, but most.” 

According to James, bodybuilders in the 2000s suffered more, whether it was two-a-days or extra cardio. 

“We trained, sometimes twice a day. We did cardio two times. We dieted harder. We suffered. I don’t see this. I don’t see the suffering that we used to see on every single competitor that’s going to the Olympia.” 

He used Mamdouh “Big Ramy” Elssbiay to illustrate his point, highlighting that he had to push the Egyptian native in training to win the Mr. Olympia. 

“Ramy is the best example. He was the biggest guy that you’d ever seen, and everybody thought, of course, if you look like this, you have to be stronger than everybody. You probably are, but you don’t take advantage of it.” 

“The training was different. I pushed him. I pushed him to a point where I felt he had never been there. He’d never been to this point. You train to basically the point where you are done after the workout, there’s nothing else you want to do but sleep.” 

Above all else, James chalked up a lack of suffering as the reason why bodybuilders aren’t as conditioned today. 

“I think it’s the suffering. When I see these guys go to the meeting or Meet the Olympians, I want to see some faces where they look like they about to die. Where is it? The press conference, that was our indication, we go out there in suits. You don’t know what we look like, but you see the face, oh, he’s in shape,” shared Dennis James. 

Industry experts have been adamant that conditioning could dictate who wins the Mr. Olympia next. Judge Terrick El Guindy recently urged Hadi Choopan to improve his conditioning and leg balance to dethrone two-time champ Derek Lunsford.  

Size and conditioning remain non-negotiable criteria in the Men’s Open. Dennis James hopes to see more focus on conditioning in the future as the sport continues to grow. 

RELATED: Kamal Elgargni Says Andrew Jacked Can Win 5 Mr. Olympias, Dennis James Predicts He Can Win 2026 Olympia & Arnold Classic

Watch the full video from the OlympiaTV YouTube channel below: 

Aging gracefully is a top priority for bodybuilding legend Lee Labrada. In a YouTube video from May 22, 2026, Labrada discussed the importance of adjusting a workout or dieting routine to aid health, longevity, and functionality as we age. 

During the late 1980s and early 90s, Lee Labrada became a household name in the Men’s Open class. While he never claimed the prestigious Mr. Olympia title, he came close. Labrada gave former eight-time Mr. Olympia Lee Haney a run for his money, along with other notable stars, including Rich Gaspari and Samir Bannout. 

Labrada stepped away from the sport competitively, but still keeps tabs on the Men’s Open class. His son, Hunter Labrada, took the torch and ran with it. He has finished as high as fourth place at the Mr. Olympia contest and remains one of the sport’s most promising contenders. 

In retirement, Lee Labrada is focused on guiding the next generation of athletes on the rise. He doesn’t just offer advice to the top stars in the Men’s Open; Labrada also shares workout and nutrition pointers that any gym-goer can apply. Making changes on the fly was critical to Labrada’s success onstage, and now, he’s showing how impactful it can be as we get older. 

Lee Labrada Highlights Biggest Mistake Aging Bodybuilders Make & How to Fix It 

In the YouTube video, Labrada explained that as we age, tailoring workouts to complement longevity and functionality can help overall health and quality of life: 

“The thing that you want to strive to do is be the best that you can be at every age. At some point, it becomes as much about health and longevity, and functionality as it is about looking good.

That’s really important and that’s one of those things as bodybuilders, we have to make the adjustment as we get older.” 

Lee Labrada hasn’t been the only bodybuilding veteran locked in on longevity. Jay Cutler, a former four-time Mr. Olympia, has also redesigned his training regimen with a heavier focus on longevity and mobility for smoother aging. 

“Just trying to keep my health the most proactive thing. I always talked about the longevity,” he shared. “The supplements leading in different directions with more health aspects and longevity, it’s super important for me to live that lifestyle. Besides a perfect diet, the training has to be on point too, and of course, the sleep,” Jay Cutler shared. 

At 65 years old, few bodybuilders boast the longevity of Lee Labrada. He believes adjusting routines as we age is key to lasting progress. 

RELATED: Bodybuilding Legend Lee Labrada Reveals His 10-Minute Rule That Stops Overeating

Watch the full video from the Labrada Nutrition YouTube channel below: 

The 2026 Torian Pro CrossFit Semifinal took place on May 22-24 in Brisbane, Queensland, gathering the fittest athletes from the Oceania region and the rest of the world. The pro individual men’s and women’s divisions featured 40 competitors each, with only the top three making it through to the CrossFit Games. In the end, Ricky Garard and Medeline Sturt topped the leaderboards in their respective divisions after seven events.

2026 Torian Pro CrossFit Semifinal Results

Men

The men’s lineup at the 2026 Torian Pro CrossFit Semifinal was stacked, which resulted in an intense and unpredictable battle for the title. Ricky Garard ended up taking the win, placing in the top five across all seven events and displaying unparalleled consistency. Garard walked away with the silver medal from the 2025 CrossFit Games, but he will have a chance to finally get his hands on the most coveted trophy in the sport.

Jay Crouch had a very similar performance to Ricky Garard, but his 11th-place finish from event two ended up costing him the title. Although he had to settle for second, Crouch still qualified for the Games, which was undoubtedly his main goal. Bayley Martin grabbed the final qualifying spot after beating the 2x Fittest Man On Earth, Justin Medeiros.

1. Ricky Garard — 655 points (Qualified)
2. Jay Crouch — 643 points (Qualified)
3. Bayley Martin — 604 points (Qualified)
4. Justin Medeiros — 574 points
5. Riley Martin — 535 points
6. Isaac Newman — 526 points
7. Zac Thomas — 490 points
8. Brandyn Gaskill — 475 points
9. Hiko O Te Rangi Curtis — 468 points
10. Stephen Mischewski — 422 points
11. Benjamin Sexton — 400 points
12. Dante Karangaroa — 369 points
13. Thor Hajnal — 349 points
14. Ben Hickson — 348 points
15. Lachlan Park — 322 points
16. Ethan Van Der Velden — 315 points
17. Connor Smith — 308 points
18. Jack Fleming — 308 points
19. Kaea Taurua — 301 points
20. Jack Sweeney — 300 points
21. Gonzalo Del Rio — 298 points
22. Conor McEleny — 293 points
23. Kevin Gosselin — 284 points
24. Liam Ford — 271 points
25. John Champion — 250 points
26. Daniel Goulet — 249 points
27. Isaac Sheriff — 248 points
28. Jake Standen — 247 points
29. Nathan Corden — 242 points
30. James Hargreaves — 229 points
31. Ryan Mulvaney — 191 points
32. Jack Verman — 175 points
33. Jacob Wheeler — 168 points
34. Cameron Kuszla — 157 points
35. CJ Walker — 146 points
36. Nicky Rodgers — 101 points
37. Max Lees — 96 points
38. Alvaro Alarcon — 26 points
39. Khan Porter — WIthdrew
40. Peter Ellis — Withdrew

Women

The women’s division at the 2026 Torian Pro CrossFit Semifinal was equally, if not even more, intense than the men’s. Madeline Sturt took the win, having accumulated just six points more than Ellie Turner. Kyra Milligan was not far behind either with 586 points to her name.

Ellie Turner was the front-runner to take the win, but a 21st-place finish in the fifth event ended up costing her over 50 points. She still nearly reclaimed the top spot, which goes to show how incredible she is in the majority of CrossFit tasks.

1. Madeline Sturt — 607 points (Qualified)
2. Ellie Turner — 601 points (Qualified)
3. Kyra Milligan — 586 points (Qualified)
4. Isabella Vallejo — 544 points
5. Daisy McDonald — 520 points
6. Ella Price — 517 points
7. Jess Green — 517 points
8. Stephanie Collins — 501 points
9. Briony Challis — 418 points
10. Marnie Sykes — 398 points
11. Danielle Ford — 372 points
12. Hayley Adams — 368 points
13. Erika Palasty — 364 points
14. Erin Felton — 362 points
15. Gabi Smit — 360 points
16. Ema Iredell — 352 points
17. Gemma Hauck — 343 points
18. Tayla Howe — 342 points
19. Isabella Andueza — 315 points
20. Madi Gilmour — 310 points
21. Laura Yardley — 292 points
22. Megan Powell — 288 points
23. Mekenzie Woodhouse — 288 points
24. Brodie Preston — 281 points
25. Gemma Ellis — 274 points
26. Sarah Kebbell — 270 points
27. Ebony Jankowski — 239 points
28. Lauren Lovick — 234 points
29. Nikoletta Stadnik — 219 points
30. Lisa Hemerik — 207 points
31. Alexandra Bulic — 205 points
32. Hamali Binding — 181 points
33. Julia Hannaford — 166 points
34. Tyler McKellar — 146 points
35. Hinatea Montebello — 132 points
36. Maddie Jarvis — 104 points
37. Holly Hiney — 80 points
38. Grace Walton — Withdrew
39. Emily De Rooy — Withdrew
40. Caitlin Porter — Withdrew

Related: 2026 French Throwdown CrossFit Semifinal Results — Jayson Hopper & Mirjam von Rohr Victorious

Event One — Kuta

For time:

• 2-mile Ruck

Time cap: 50 minutes

Men’s Results

1. Ricky Garard — 19:25.34
2. Lachlan Park — 19:31.96
3. Jay Crouch — 19:57.91

Women’s Results

1. Ellie Turner — 20:10.26
2. Isabella Vallejo — 20:55.81
3. Erin Felton — 21:05.03

Event Two — Regional Redux

For time:

• 15 Muscle ups
• 1 Squat snatch 93/61kg
• 1 Squat snatch 102/66kg
• 1 Squat snatch 111/70kg
• 1 Squat snatch 116/75kg
• 1 Squat snatch 120/80kg

Time cap: 6 minutes

Men’s Results

1. Hiko O Te Rangi Curtis — 01:32.88
2. Bayley Martin — 01:33.20
3. Ricky Garard — 01:44.12

Women’s Results

1. Isabella Andueza — 01:59.68
2. Kyra Milligan — 02:00.60
3. Grace Walton — 2:15.85

Event Three — Heavy Hann

For time:

• 100ft Sled drag
• 6 Rope climbs
• 100ft Sled pull
• 100ft Sled drag
• 4 Rope climbs
• 100ft Sled pull
• 100ft Sled drag
• 3 Rope climbs
• 100ft Sled pull

Time cap: 11 minutes

Men’s Results

1. Zac Thomas — 08:20.15
2. Isaac Newman — 08:32.00
3. Jay Crouch — 08:43.21

Women’s Results

1. Kyra Milligan — 08:38.28
2. Grace Walton — 08:50.94
3. Ellie Turner — 09:06.20

Event Four — One For The Money

For time:

• 40 Calorie row
• 40 Double KB snatches 24/16kg
• 80ft KB lunge

Time cap: 7 minutes

Men’s Results

1. Bayley Martin — 03:35.24
2. Dante Karangaroa — 03:40.54
3. Jay Crouch — 03:49.62

Women’s Results

1. Stephanie Collins — 04:12.17
2. Ellie Turner — 04:13.12
3. Madeline Sturt — 04:16.93

Event Five — Two For The Show

2 rounds for time:

• 30 Pistol squats
• 30 Toes to bar
• 90ft Handstand walk

Time cap: 8 minutes

Men’s Results

1. Jacob Wheeler — 04:43.03
2. Jay Crouch — 04:44.11
3. Jack Sweeney — 05:08.86

Women’s Results

1. Isabella Vallejo — 05:24.76
2. Ella Price — 05:39.16
3. Madeline Sturt — 05:49.20

Event Six — King Arthur II

For time:

• 15 Overhead squats 70/52kg
• 15 Wall burpees
• 15 Fat bar thrusters 61/43kg
• 15 Power cleans 93/61kg
• 15 Bar muscle ups
• 15 Deficit handstand push-ups
• 15 Bar muscle ups
• 15 Power cleans 93/61kg
• 15 Fat bar Thrusters 61/43kg
• 15 Wall burpees
• 15 Overhead squats 70/52kg

Men’s Results

1. Jay Crouch — 13:19.91
2. Bayley Martin — 14:32.53
3. Ricky Garard — 15:14.95

Women’s Results

1. Kyra Milligan — 14:16.10
2. Isabella Vallejo — 14:28.55
3. Madeline Sturt — 14:54.53

Event Seven — Final

For Time:

• 30 Calorie Ski Erg
• 20 Box Jump Overs 30/24″
• 10 Kettlebell Deadlifts 185/112kg

Time Cap: 6 minutes

Men’s Results

1. Isaac Newman — 02:13.90
2. Ricky Garard — 02:17.56
3. Jay Crouch — 02:18.60

Women’s Results

1. Daisy McDonald — 02:29.55
2. Ellie Turner — 02:36.93
3. Madi Gilmour — 02:37.54

Related: 2026 Legends Championship CrossFit Semifinal Results — Dallin Pepper and Olivia Kerstetter Victorious

The 2026 Torian Pro CrossFit Semifinal featured some incredible athletes and some arguably surprising results, such as Justin Medeiros not making it into the top three spots that lead to the CrossFit Games. However, a couple more in-person Semifinal remain, along with the online Semifinal, which holds seven qualifying spots for the Games.

“The Godfather of Bodybuilding,” Charles Glass, has tried-and-true training plans for any bodybuilding division. In a YouTube video from May 24, 2026, he broke down his high-intensity shoulder and abs workout for Fit Model. 

For decades, Charles Glass has helped shape athletes from all walks of life. He guided elite bodybuilders to the top of the sport, including Dexter Jackson, the late Shawn Rhoden, and Brandon Curry. His engineering and gymnastic background gives him a unique perspective on body mechanics during lifts. 

Glass remains a top-level coach for bodybuilders regardless of division. He recently helped prepare former 2024 Bikini Olympia Lauralie Chapados for her title defense, and always shares new, innovative strategies for building muscle and burning fat. 

Charles Glass Shares Fit Model Workout for Shoulders and Abs 

Find his exercises from the video below: 

• Dumbbell Side Lateral Raise – Giant Set 
• Front Raise 
• Upright Rows 
• Bent Over Side Rear Delt Fly 
• Dumbbell Shoulder Press 
• Crunch Machine
• Lying Abdominal Crunch Machine 
• Hanging Leg Raise Machine 
• Ab Cable Seated Crunch Machine 

They started with a handful of exercises that targeted the three heads of the shoulder (front, side, and rear). Shortly after, they moved into ab-focused movements to build core strength. 

After the fast-paced session, Glass offered insights on building muscle and posing in Fit Model: 

“Normally, the last muscle you gain is the first muscle you’ll lose when you start dieting down because you haven’t had it long enough. So it goes away right away,” he shared. “You got to lift a little heavier [in prep]. When you pose, you have mandatory poses that you have to do.” 

“Just front and back, that’s it, but you can pose them any way you want to.” 

Glass continues to offer his fans workout breakdowns to elevate their physiques. When performing glute kickbacks, a popular exercise for Fit Model competitors, he cautioned against letting momentum take over the movement. 

“When you kick back in the back, leave the leg bent,” explained Charles Glass. “I’m here, and then I go all the way back, and squeeze the back.”

“Standing glute kickbacks done with control—focus on squeezing at the top, keeping tension on the glutes, and not letting momentum take over.”  

Athletes from the Fit Model division have the opportunity to qualify for the 2026 Mr. Olympia this season. The qualification period began on September 15, 2025, and runs until August 30, 2026. Fans look forward to welcoming the new category on stage when the show returns from September 24-27 in Las Vegas, Nevada. 

RELATED: Charles Glass Shares Heavy Shoulder Workout for Size, Muscle Roundness and Strength

Watch the full video from the Charles Glass YouTube channel below: 

Following months of preparation, Hafthor Bjornsson and Mitchell Hooper have clashed against each other in one of the greatest strength duels ever seen. Both had a goal of setting a new Deadlift World Record at the 2026 Enhanced Games on May 24th in Las Vegas. Unfortunately, 515 kilograms (1,135.4 pounds) proved to be too heavy for both of them, with Bjornsson getting the bar to his knees.

Hafthor Bjornsson’s Deadlift World Record Attempt

Hafthor Bjornsson came into the 2026 Enhanced Games as the Deadlift World Record holder, having set the mark of 510 kilograms (1,124.4 pounds) back at the 2025 World Deadlift Championships. So, he looked to further improve the record by 5 kilograms (11 pounds) and went to great lengths to achieve it, including clearing out his schedule for the entire first half of 2026.

Hafthor Bjornsson opened up with 425 kilograms (937 pounds), which moved extremely easily for him and increased everyone’s optimism about the potential record. After a break, he took on a 475-kilogram (1,047.2-pound) deadlift, which did not slow him down much either. With two successful lifts under his belt, Hafthor’s next jump had to be 515 kilograms (1,135.4 pounds).

After putting on his deadlift suit, lifting straps, and a lifting belt, Hafthor Bjornsson made his way to the competition floor to attempt the heaviest conventional deadlift ever achieved. In his usual fashion, the ‘Mountain’ rolled the bar toward his shins and started the pull just moments later. He managed to get the bar off the floor quickly, but he got stuck once it reached knee-height. Unfortunately, after a few moments of struggle, Bjornsson lowered the bar down and walked away with an unsuccessful lift.

Watch Hafthor Bjornsson’s record attempt here:

Related: Hafthor Bjornsson Pulls 485-kg (1,069.2-lb) During His Heaviest Deadlift Session Ever in Prep for 2026 Enhanced Games

Mitchell Hooper’s Deadlift World Record Attempt

Although many believe that Hafthor Bjornsson is the only man on earth who is able to deadlift well over half a ton, Mitchell Hooper also stepped up to the challenge at the 2026 Enhanced Games. His presence added a competitive spirit to the show, as his rivalry with Hafthor electrified the atmosphere at the venue. Moreover, being the reigning World’s Strongest Man, Hooper was the prime candidate to take on the record holder.

Mitchell Hooper’s first attempt was a bit lighter than Hafthor’s, as he locked out 400 kilograms (881.8 pounds) to kick off his performance at the Enhanced Games. On his second attempt, Hooper decided to go for 440 kilograms (970 pounds), which moved a bit slower than expected. However, he managed to lock it out and went back to prepare for the final attempt.

With 515 kilograms (1,135.4 pounds) loaded onto the barbell, Mitchell Hooper gave his all but still ended up failing to get the barbell fully off the floor. He did seem unwell after the attempt but quickly received assistance from people nearby. The main takeaway from Hooper’s performance was just how heavy the bar was, as he is one of the greatest deadlifters in the world and he still failed to get nearly any movement with the weight. On the other hand, it should be noted that Hooper has had an intense season leading up to the Enhanced Games, having won both the 2026 Arnold Strongman Classic and World’s Strongest Man.

Watch Mitchell Hooper’s attempt here:

Related: Hafthor Bjornsson Believes He Can Deadlift 550-kg (1,212.5-lb): “I am Capable of That”

It is unclear what exact plans Hafthor Bjornsson or Mitchell Hooper have for the Deadlift World Record, but it seems that the 510-kilogram (1,124.4-pound) mark could remain untouched for the foreseeable future. Hafthor’s attempt proved that he is definitely capable of exceeding the record, but it remains to be seen if he is motivated enough to continue training specifically for the deadlift, especially considering some rumors that he is eyeing an appearance at the 2026 Rogue Invitational.

Hafthor Bjornsson and Mitchell Hooper are ready to battle for arguably the most prized possession in the strength world — the Deadlift World Record. The two are set to go head-to-head at the 2026 Enhanced Games, which are taking place on May 24th in Las Vegas. Below is a full guide on how and when to watch the two Strongman icons take on the heaviest deadlift in history.

How to Watch 2026 Enhanced Games

The organizers of the 2026 Enhanced Games are hosting a free live broadcast of the action-packed day in Las Vegas. So, viewers from all around are able to enjoy the sight of world-class athletes achieving historic results across an array of sports, including Strongman, weightlifting, swimming, and more.

The livestream will be available on platforms like YouTube, Rumble, Twitch, Kick, and Roku, with the opening events starting at 6:30 p.m. ET / 3:30 p.m. PT. Meanwhile, the main events will start following the performance of renowned DJ Alan Walker, which is scheduled for 8:30 p.m. ET / 5:30 p.m. PT.

When it comes to Hafthor Bjornsson and Mitchell Hooper, they will have three deadlift attempts each, which are separated into three segments, giving them time to rest and achieve optimal performance. The schedule for the deadlift is as follows:

• Deadlift segment one: 10:55 p.m. ET / 7:55 p.m. PT
• Deadlift segment two: 11:13 p.m. ET / 8:13 p.m. PT
• Deadlift segment three: 11:31 p.m. ET / 8:31 p.m. PT

Watch the livestream here:

Related: Hafthor Bjornsson Pulls 485-kg (1,069.2-lb) During His Heaviest Deadlift Session Ever in Prep for 2026 Enhanced Games

The 2026 Enhanced Games are based on the concept that athletes are allowed to improve their performance with substances that would usually be prohibited in the majority of mainstream sports. In doing so, the athletes are able to reach new heights and push the limits of what is humanly possible.

As far as Strongman goes, the invite was sent to two of the most prominent figures in the community. Hafthor Bjornsson is the current World Record holder with 510 kilograms (1,124.4 pounds), while Mitchell Hooper is the reigning World’s Strongest Man. As such, they are the perfect candidates to further improve the deadlift record.

Hafthor Bjornsson was the first to announce his appearance at the 2026 Enhanced Games, and he decided to completely clear his schedule, including withdrawing from the 2026 Arnold Strongman Classic. Being fully dedicated to the goal, Hafthor has set his sights on the 515-kilogram (1,135.4-pounds) deadlift.

On the other hand, Mitchell Hooper has never locked out half a ton or more on the deadlift but has been pretty close to it in the past while focusing on other goals as well. Hooper is coming off wins at the Arnold Strongman Classic and World’s Strongest Man, proving he is currently in incredible shape.

If Bjornsson or Hooper manage to break the Deadlift World Record, they will receive $250,000 in prize money for their achievement. Moreover, their lift will go down as one of the greatest achievements in history.

Related: Hafthor Bjornsson Believes He Can Deadlift 550-kg (1,212.5-lb): “I am Capable of That”

The 2026 Enhanced Games are set to be one of the most interesting sporting events of the year, with Hafthor Bjornsson and Mitchell Hooper playing a major role. Furthermore, their rivalry will undoubtedly fuel the deadlift attempts, as both look to deliver their best possible performance in order to set a new record and claim the bragging rights.

Brazilian bodybuilder and fitness influencer Gabriel Ganley, known online as “Bbzinho,” has died. Multiple Brazilian reports listed him as 22.

The news quickly shook Brazil’s fitness scene, where Ganley had become one of the most recognizable young names in bodybuilding. He built a large audience through training clips, physique updates, and a playful gym-culture persona that connected with younger lifters.

By the time of his death, Ganley had roughly 2 million Instagram followers and a major supplement sponsorship, making him one of the sport’s more visible rising figures in Brazil.

What Happened to Gabriel Ganley?

Brazilian reports state that sponsor IntegralMédica confirmed Ganley’s death on May 23 and described him as its “eternal bbzinho.”

“Today the pain speaks louder. With great sadness, we say goodbye to our eternal bbzinho, who lived intensely and with whom we had historic and unforgettable moments in our family,” the company wrote, according to Brazilian media reports.

An official cause of death has not been released. Several bodybuilding pages have circulated hypoglycemia as a possible factor, but that claim has not been confirmed by Ganley’s family or sponsor.

Hypoglycemia occurs when blood glucose drops too low and can become dangerous if not treated quickly. It should not be treated as Ganley’s cause of death unless an official statement confirms it.

Who Was Gabriel Ganley?

Ganley was born in Rio de Janeiro, according to Brazilian outlet Vale Atual. Brazilian sports outlet ge profiled him in 2025 among notable natural bodybuilding names and reported that he started lifting at 15 after watching bodybuilding icons from the 1980s and 1990s.

His mother initially limited him to three gym sessions per week over injury concerns. He also practiced martial arts before focusing fully on bodybuilding.

His profile jumped through size, strength, and social media reach. Lance covered a viral clip of him performing a 500-kilogram leg press, one of the videos that pushed him beyond Brazil’s hardcore lifting audience.

By 2025, ge reported that Ganley had more than 1.2 million followers, major sponsorships, and guidance from prominent names, including Jorlan Vieira. His Instagram audience later grew to roughly 2 million.

Beltrão Agora, citing G1, reported that Ganley studied Physical Education for two years at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), where he began posting early fitness content. The report also said he moved to São Paulo in 2023 after signing a sponsorship deal and started competing in bodybuilding around the same period.

O Povo reported that Ganley first gained attention while promoting natural bodybuilding, with early competitions in 2023 and 2024 following that model. The outlet said he later told followers he had started using anabolic steroids, withdrew from 2025 competitions due to pneumonia, and was preparing for Musclecontest Brasil in Curitiba this year.

Tributes Pour in for Gabriel Ganley

Classic Physique star Ramon Dino shared one of the most detailed tributes, recalling a meeting after Dino’s Mr. Olympia victory and a later training session arranged through Oficial Farma.

“Always happy, always playful, always making those around him laugh,” Dino wrote in Portuguese. “Rest in peace, my friend.”

Brazilian bodybuilder Gabriel Zancanelli called him “a unique personality” with standout charisma and said he was still in shock. “May God comfort his family and friends. Rest in peace Bbzinho,” he wrote.

RxMuscle also paid tribute, calling Ganley a Brazilian superstar. Its post listed him as 23, while Brazilian outlets including O Povo, Correio Braziliense, TV SBC, Vale Atual, and Beltrão Agora reported 22.

Coach Fabrício Pacholok said their few meetings were always full of “good energy, many laughs, and jokes.” IFBB Pro Leandro Peres wrote that Ganley left “an eternal trail of light” and called him “an unforgettable friend.”

A Sudden Loss for Brazilian Bodybuilding

Ganley’s death adds to a difficult stretch for bodybuilding in 2026. Other losses covered this year include Albert Beckles, Craig Monson, Bi Jiaqi, Jason Lowe, Andrea Lorini, Mehdi Zatparvar, Davoud Sohrabi, Jose Sebastian Anzola Quintero, Jayne Trcka, and Kevin Notario Nunes.

His youth, reach, and fast rise made the news hit hard. For many Brazilian fans, Ganley represented the newer generation of bodybuilding: social-first, ambitious, and deeply tied to gym culture. The team at FitnessVolt sends its condolences to Ganley’s family, friends, teammates, and fans.

Bodybuilding legend Lee Labrada still pushes himself to train hard at 65. In his latest YouTube video from May 22, 2026, he revealed his current training split that has helped him stay fit in retirement. 

Competing during the early 1980s and 90s, Lee Labrada built a strong legacy against all-time great bodybuilders. Despite being outweighed by up to 50 pounds, he gave elite names a run for their money, including former eight-time Mr. Olympia winner Lee Haney and 1983 champ, Samir Bannout. 

Even though he stepped away from competing, Labrada still serves as a top bodybuilding ambassador. He’s used his platform to offer up-and-coming talent workout and nutrition advice. His son, Hunter Labrada, followed in his footsteps and has emerged as a top Men’s Open contender. 

Labrada has made longevity a top priority since his time onstage. He still boasts impressive muscularity and low body fat in his sixties. And now, fans can finally see exactly which exercises have helped him maintain his physique. 

Lee Labrada Reveals Current Training Split at 65

Find a quick overview of his split below, along with exercise selections from the video: 

• Monday – Chest and Triceps
• Tuesday – Back and Biceps 
• Wednesday – Legs 
• Thursday – Shoulders and Abs 
• Friday – Full Body 
• Saturday & Sunday – Active Recovery 

Monday – Chest and Triceps 

• Incline Dumbbell Press 
• Cable Crossovers
• Dips 
• Triceps Pushdowns
• Moderate Cardio 

Tuesday – Back and Biceps 

• Lat Pulldown
• Seated Rows 
• Barbell Curls
• Hammer Curls 
• 10 Minutes of Cardio 

Wednesday – Legs 

• Leg Press 
• Walking Lunges
• Leg Curls
• Calf Raises 

Thursday – Shoulders and Abs 

• Dumbbell Press 
• Lateral Raise 
• Leg Raise
• 30 Minutes of Cardio 

Friday – Full Body 

• Full Body Circuit 
• 40 Minutes of Cardio 

Saturday & Sunday  – Active Recovery 

• Walking 
• Stretching 

Labrada can still train frequently and with intensity. He joined 2000s bodybuilding icon Branch Warren for a grueling old-school arm pump workout. In between sets, Warren shared that depth has returned in the Men’s Open class after a dry spell. 

“In the past three or four years now, there’s a lot of depth there. You got some good athletes and young guys coming up. You got Samson, Derek, Hadi, Martin, Hunter, Nick, you got these young guys.”

“Do they look like us in the 2000s? No. Did we look like you guys in the ’90s? No,” shared Warren. “I don’t know if that’s for me to say [if the Men’s Open is headed in the wrong direction].”  

Labrada continues to guide the new generation of bodybuilders on the horizon. Based on progress photos shared through the years, this training split appears to be working for the IFBB Pro League Hall of Famer. 

RELATED: Lee Labrada Reveals 4 Mindset Hacks to Stay Consistent With Diet and Training

Watch the full video from the Lean Body Official YouTube channel below: 

Fat-loss food lists usually fail because they talk as if one ingredient can override the rest of the diet. It cannot. Chili peppers, green tea, apples, eggs, oats, yogurt, and lean meat can all fit a smart cut, but they work because they make a calorie deficit easier to live with. They do not create a separate fat-burning lane outside energy balance.

The better question is simple: which foods help you eat enough protein, fiber, and satisfying volume while staying within your calorie target? Start there and the old “fat-loss foods” idea becomes useful again. Use our TDEE calculator and macronutrient calculator to set the target, then use the foods below to make that target repeatable.

What foods actually help fat loss?

Foods help fat loss when they increase fullness, protect training performance, or make the diet easier to repeat. The most reliable categories are lean proteins, high-fiber carbohydrates, fruits and vegetables, lower-calorie dairy, legumes, potatoes, oats, and fluids such as water or unsweetened coffee. None of them cancels out calories, but several make a deficit less miserable.

Protein deserves the first spot because it supports muscle retention while calories are lower. The International Society of Sports Nutrition notes that active people commonly benefit from higher protein intakes than sedentary adults, especially during hard training blocks. In practical terms, most lifters should build each meal around a protein anchor: eggs, Greek yogurt, fish, poultry, lean beef, tofu, tempeh, beans, or a protein powder if whole food is not convenient.

Fiber is the second lever. Beans, lentils, berries, oats, potatoes with skin, vegetables, and whole grains give you more chewing, more food volume, and slower digestion for the calories. If your cut feels impossible, the issue is often not discipline; it is a low-volume diet built from foods that disappear too fast.

Which fat-loss foods belong in the weekly rotation?

A strong fat-loss grocery list has boring reliability. Pick two or three foods from each category, then repeat them until the plan feels automatic. If you need more ideas, our guide to the best high-protein foods is a useful starting point.

• Protein anchors: chicken breast, turkey, tuna, salmon, eggs, lean beef, Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, tofu, tempeh, and whey or plant protein.
• High-fiber carbs: oats, potatoes, sweet potatoes, beans, lentils, quinoa, brown rice, berries, apples, and whole-grain bread.
• Volume foods: leafy greens, broccoli, cauliflower, peppers, zucchini, cucumbers, tomatoes, mushrooms, soups, and salads built with a real protein source.
• Flavor tools: salsa, hot sauce, vinegar, mustard, herbs, spices, citrus, pickles, low-calorie dressings, and broth-based sauces.

Spicy foods and coffee can help some people, but do not build the whole plan around a metabolic effect. Treat them as appetite and performance tools. If caffeine makes you anxious or ruins sleep, it can hurt the diet more than it helps.

Which supplements are worth considering?

Supplements are optional. The useful ones either make protein easier, support training output, or provide a small appetite or energy benefit. Protein powder can solve a convenience problem. Caffeine has evidence for exercise performance, but individual tolerance matters. Creatine is not a fat burner, but it can help maintain strength while cutting. Everything else should earn its spot.

Green tea extract, CLA, and exotic antioxidant products have been promoted for years, but the practical return is often smaller than the marketing. If a supplement budget forces you to choose, spend on groceries first, then protein powder or creatine if they solve a real problem. A pill that promises fat loss while your calories, protein, and steps are random is not a tool; it is a distraction.

For most lifters, the highest-value fat-loss “stack” is not a stack at all: a calorie target, 3-5 protein feedings, 25-35 grams of fiber if tolerated, daily movement, and a sleep schedule that does not turn hunger into a nightly negotiation.

How should you build a fat-loss day?

Start with protein at breakfast or the first meal, not because breakfast is magic, but because early protein prevents the day from becoming a scramble. A Greek yogurt bowl with berries and oats, eggs with potatoes and vegetables, or a shake plus fruit can all work.

At lunch and dinner, use a plate structure: one palm or more of protein, one to two fists of vegetables, one smart carbohydrate portion, and a measured fat source. On hard training days, put more carbs around the workout. On rest days, keep carbs but let vegetables and lean protein take up more of the plate. For a simple example day, compare this against our 1,700-calorie meal plan.

Do not chase perfection. A fat-loss food only matters if you can repeat it. The best list is the one that keeps you full, trained, and sane long enough for the weekly average to move.

Can certain foods burn fat by themselves?

No food burns enough fat by itself to replace a calorie deficit. Some foods slightly increase fullness, thermic effect, or training energy, but fat loss still comes from consistently using more energy than you consume. The smarter strategy is to choose foods that make the deficit easier to follow.

Are “healthy” high-calorie foods still a problem?

They can be. Nuts, olive oil, avocado, granola, nut butter, and trail mix can be nutritious and still easy to overeat. Keep them in the plan, but measure them during a cut. Healthy calories are still calories, especially when the serving size is small and dense.

Sources

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2025). Steps for Losing Weight. Accessed May 22, 2026.
2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2026). Physical Activity and Your Weight and Health. Accessed May 22, 2026.
3. Jager, R., et al. (2017). International Society of Sports Nutrition Position Stand: protein and exercise. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition. doi:10.1186/s12970-017-0177-8.
4. Guest, N. S., et al. (2021). International society of sports nutrition position stand: caffeine and exercise performance. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition. doi:10.1186/s12970-020-00383-4.
5. U.S. Department of Agriculture. (n.d.). FoodData Central. Accessed May 22, 2026.

Recovery sleep is not won by the strongest supplement. It is won by enough sleep opportunity, consistent timing, a dark room, smart caffeine cutoffs, and only then a supplement that fits the problem.

For this FitnessVolt review, we ranked sleep supplements by ingredient clarity, melatonin dose, magnesium role, habit fit, next-day-grogginess risk, and verified Amazon availability.

We checked the current competitor set, including Sleep Foundation supplement coverage, Healthline sleep aids, Verywell Health sleep supplements, Amazon sleep supplement category results. Many sleep-supplement rankings overpromise or ignore training context. FitnessVolt focuses on what athletes actually need: a consistent sleep routine first, clear melatonin dosing, magnesium as a different tool than sedative blends, and skip guidance for next-day grogginess.

Short on time? OLLY Sleep Gummies is the best overall pick, Nature Made Wellblends Sleep Longer is the best alternate, and Sports Research Magnesium Glycinate is the best specialized pick.

Quick Picks

How We Ranked Best Sleep Supplements for Recovery

Last evaluated: May 2026. We rewarded clear labels, practical formats, lower-friction routines, and products that make their role obvious. We penalized heavy-handed sleep promises, vague proprietary blends, high-dose melatonin without context, and products that looked more like sedation marketing than recovery support.

Our scoring lens: Ingredient clarity, Dose control, Recovery fit, Habit fit, Caution. For related FitnessVolt context, compare this guide with our workout-focus nootropics, strongest pre-workout supplements, magnesium supplements.

1. OLLY Sleep Gummies – Best Gummy

Why it earned this rank: OLLY wins the gummy slot because adherence matters. If a reader will not take capsules, a familiar gummy can be the routine that actually happens.

Who should buy it: Readers who want the easiest gummy routine

Who should skip it: Skip it if you want the tightest dose control or avoid gummies.

• Best use: occasional routine support when gummies fit your habits.
• Avoid stacking with other melatonin products.
• Assess next-day grogginess before using around early training.

2. Nature Made Wellblends Sleep Longer – Best Time-Release Blend

Why it earned this rank: Nature Made is the time-release blend pick because some readers need staying-asleep support, not just falling asleep.

Who should buy it: Readers who want a longer-night blend format

Who should skip it: Skip it if you are sensitive to melatonin or want a low-dose product.

• Best use: readers who specifically want a longer-night blend.
• Start cautiously if you have not used melatonin before.
• Avoid taking it too close to wake time.

3. Sports Research Magnesium Glycinate – Best Magnesium

Why it earned this rank: Sports Research is the magnesium pick because sleep recovery is not always a melatonin problem. Some readers want mineral support without a hormone-style sleep aid.

Who should buy it: Readers who want magnesium rather than melatonin

Who should skip it: Skip it if you want a direct melatonin product.

• Best use: melatonin-free nightly routine support.
• Check total magnesium from diet and supplements.
• GI tolerance can vary by person and form.

4. Life Extension Melatonin Time Release – Best Low-Dose Time Release

Why it earned this rank: Life Extension is the low-dose time-release pick because more melatonin is not automatically better. A smaller dose can make sense for cautious users.

Who should buy it: Readers who want a lower-dose time-release option

Who should skip it: Skip it if you want a stronger, immediate sleep aid.

• Best use: low-dose melatonin routines.
• Assess timing and morning feel carefully.
• Do not assume higher dose means better sleep quality.

5. NOW Melatonin 10 mg – Best Simple Melatonin

Why it earned this rank: NOW is the simple melatonin pick because it gives readers a clear single-ingredient option, but it belongs lower because the dose is not subtle.

Who should buy it: Readers who intentionally want a high-dose single-ingredient melatonin

Who should skip it: Skip it if you are new to melatonin, train early, or have had next-day grogginess.

• Best use: experienced melatonin users choosing this dose intentionally.
• Avoid combining with other melatonin blends.
• Use sleep hygiene first, supplement second.

Best Sleep Supplements for Recovery Comparison Table

Scorecard

How to Choose

Fix sleep opportunity before buying anything. Supplements cannot overcome late caffeine, inconsistent bedtimes, bright rooms, and too little time in bed.

Melatonin dose matters. Higher is not automatically better and can create next-day grogginess for some users.

Magnesium and melatonin solve different problems. Do not compare them as if they are the same ingredient.

Test on a low-stakes night first. Do not introduce a new sleep supplement before an early competition, hard training day, or long drive.

Products We Would Skip

We skipped products with cure-style sleep claims, unclear melatonin amounts, heavy proprietary blends, unverified Amazon pages, or formulas that made next-day-grogginess risk hard to judge.

FAQ

Are sleep supplements good for recovery?

They can support a sleep routine for some people, but recovery comes primarily from getting enough quality sleep, eating enough, managing training load, and controlling caffeine timing.

Is melatonin safe for athletes?

Many adults use melatonin short term, but dose, timing, next-day effects, medications, pregnancy, and medical conditions matter. Ask a clinician when unsure.

Is magnesium better than melatonin?

They are different tools. Magnesium supports mineral intake and normal physiology; melatonin is a sleep-timing hormone. The right choice depends on the problem.

Can I stack sleep supplements?

Avoid stacking multiple melatonin or sedating blends unless a clinician has advised it. More ingredients can increase grogginess and confusion.

Bottom Line

Choose OLLY if you want a gummy blend, Nature Made if you want a time-release style blend, Sports Research if magnesium is the priority, Life Extension if low-dose time-release melatonin fits, and NOW if you want a simple higher-dose melatonin bottle.

Sources

1. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. (2025). Melatonin: what you need to know. Accessed May 22, 2026.
2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). About sleep. Accessed May 22, 2026.
3. Maughan, R. J., et al. (2018). IOC consensus statement: dietary supplements and the high-performance athlete. British Journal of Sports Medicine. Accessed May 22, 2026.

A D3+K2 supplement looks simple until you compare labels. D3 amount, K2 form, serving size, oil carrier, capsule count, and existing multivitamin intake all change the decision.

For this FitnessVolt review, we ranked D3+K2 products by dose clarity, format, K2 labeling, value, stacking logic, and verified Amazon availability.

We checked the current competitor set, including Healthline vitamin D coverage, Verywell Health vitamin K coverage, Supplement review D3 K2 rankings, Amazon D3 K2 category results. Many pages treat D3+K2 as a one-size-fits-all bone-health stack. FitnessVolt focuses on buyer decisions: D3 amount, K2 form and dose, softgel versus capsule versus liquid, diet context, and when readers should check labs or clinician guidance before adding more vitamin D.

Short on time? Sports Research Vitamin D3 + K2 is the best overall pick, NOW Mega D-3 & MK-7 is the best alternate, and Thorne Vitamin D + K2 Liquid is the best specialized pick.

Quick Picks

How We Ranked Best Vitamin D3 + K2 Supplements

Last evaluated: May 2026. We rewarded products that make D3 and K2 amounts easy to understand, offer a clear format role, and help readers avoid accidental duplication with multivitamins or standalone vitamin D. We penalized unclear K2 forms, vague health promises, and pages that could not be confidently verified.

Our scoring lens: D3 clarity, K2 clarity, Format fit, Value, Stacking logic. For related FitnessVolt context, compare this guide with our vitamin D supplements for athletes, vitamin K2 supplements, krill oil supplements.

1. Sports Research Vitamin D3 + K2 – Best Overall

Why it earned this rank: Sports Research wins overall because the label is easy to understand and the softgel format is simple for daily routines.

Who should buy it: Most readers wanting a simple D3+K2 softgel

Who should skip it: Skip it if your clinician wants a lower D3 dose.

• Best use: readers intentionally choosing a higher-D3 softgel.
• Check current vitamin D bloodwork when relevant.
• Do not duplicate high-dose D3 across multiple supplements.

2. NOW Mega D-3 & MK-7 – Best Budget

Why it earned this rank: NOW is the budget pick because it gives clear D3 and MK-7 amounts from a familiar supplement brand.

Who should buy it: Budget shoppers wanting clear D3 plus MK-7

Who should skip it: Skip it if you need a lower dose or dislike capsules.

• Best use: value-focused D3+MK-7 routines.
• Review total vitamin K if you take blood-thinning medication and ask a clinician.
• Check serving count because NOW offers many vitamin D variants.

3. Thorne Vitamin D + K2 Liquid – Best Liquid

Why it earned this rank: Thorne is the liquid pick because format matters for people who dislike capsules or want adjustable serving routines.

Who should buy it: Readers who want drop dosing instead of pills

Who should skip it: Skip it if you prefer grab-and-go capsules.

• Best use: users who need liquid format.
• Measure servings carefully and follow label directions.
• Keep the bottle stored as directed.

4. Horbaach Vitamin D3 K2 – Best High-Count Bottle

Why it earned this rank: Horbaach earns the high-count slot for readers comparing long-term cost per serving.

Who should buy it: High-count value shoppers

Who should skip it: Skip it if you want premium testing cues or a smaller bottle.

• Best use: value-focused users already comfortable with the dose.
• Compare the current serving count and price.
• Avoid doubling with standalone vitamin D.

5. Life Extension Vitamins D and K with Sea-Iodine – Best Multi-Nutrient

Why it earned this rank: Life Extension is the multi-nutrient pick because some readers want a broader D and K product, but the iodine makes it a more intentional choice.

Who should buy it: Readers who want a broader D and K formula

Who should skip it: Skip it if you want a simple D3+K2-only product or must monitor iodine intake.

• Best use: readers intentionally choosing iodine plus D and K.
• Review thyroid or medication context with a clinician if relevant.
• Check the full formula before stacking with a multivitamin.

Best Vitamin D3 + K2 Supplements Comparison Table

Scorecard

How to Choose

Do not buy vitamin D blindly if deficiency, high-dose use, medication, kidney disease, or calcium issues are part of the picture. Lab work and clinician guidance matter.

D3 amount is the first comparison. A 5000 IU product is different from a low-dose maintenance product.

K2 form and dose matter. Many buyers specifically look for MK-7, but labels vary.

Format affects consistency. Softgels are easy, capsules are familiar, and liquids are flexible but require careful dosing.

Products We Would Skip

We skipped D3+K2 products with unclear K2 form, vague mega-dose positioning, unverified Amazon pages, supplement-facts confusion, or formulas that quietly added nutrients without a clear buyer reason.

FAQ

Why combine vitamin D3 and K2?

Many products pair them because both relate to bone and mineral metabolism, but the right choice depends on diet, labs, dose, and clinician guidance.

Is 5000 IU vitamin D3 too much?

It can be more than some people need. Consider bloodwork and clinician guidance, especially if using high-dose vitamin D long term.

Who should be careful with vitamin K?

People taking blood-thinning medication or managing clotting-related conditions should ask a healthcare professional before adding vitamin K supplements.

Are drops better than capsules?

Not automatically. Drops are flexible but require careful measuring. Capsules and softgels are easier for consistent one-serving routines.

Bottom Line

Choose Sports Research for the best overall softgel, NOW for budget D3+MK-7, Thorne if liquid dosing matters, Horbaach for a high-count bottle, and Life Extension if you want a broader D and K formula with iodine.

Sources

1. National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements. (2024). Vitamin D: fact sheet for health professionals. Accessed May 22, 2026.
2. National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements. (2024). Vitamin K: fact sheet for health professionals. Accessed May 22, 2026.
3. Maughan, R. J., et al. (2018). IOC consensus statement: dietary supplements and the high-performance athlete. British Journal of Sports Medicine. Accessed May 22, 2026.

NAC is easy to oversell because it sits near serious medical and antioxidant conversations. A review for athletes needs a calmer lens: label clarity, dose, format, tolerability, and whether the product makes sense for your recovery goals.

For this FitnessVolt review, we ranked NAC supplements by dose transparency, capsule or tablet format, brand trust signals, additive profile, value, and verified Amazon availability.

We checked the current competitor set, including Supplement rankings for NAC, Healthline NAC coverage, Verywell Health NAC coverage, Amazon NAC category results. Many NAC pages drift into medical promises. FitnessVolt keeps this review buyer-focused and cautious: verified NAC labels, dose clarity, capsule count, additive preferences, and why athletes should treat antioxidant supplements as context-dependent rather than automatic recovery boosters.

Short on time? NOW Foods NAC 600 mg is the best overall pick, Life Extension N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine is the best alternate, and Nutricost NAC 600 mg is the best specialized pick.

Quick Picks

How We Ranked Best NAC Supplements

Last evaluated: May 2026. We rewarded clear NAC amounts, simple serving directions, capsule counts that make cost comparisons fair, and brands with enough label clarity to avoid guesswork. We penalized cure-style marketing, unclear formulas, overstuffed blends, and any product where the Amazon page could not be verified.

Our scoring lens: Dose clarity, Label simplicity, Brand trust, Value, Recovery caution. For related FitnessVolt context, compare this guide with our glutathione supplements, workout-focus nootropics, EAA supplements.

1. NOW Foods NAC 600 mg – Best Overall

Why it earned this rank: NOW wins overall because it combines a simple 600 mg NAC dose, broad availability, and strong bottle value.

Who should buy it: Most shoppers who want a straightforward NAC staple

Who should skip it: Skip it if you want NAC alone without selenium.

• Best use: readers who already decided NAC fits their supplement plan.
• Check total selenium intake if stacking supplements.
• Keep expectations focused on antioxidant support, not medical treatment.

2. Life Extension N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine – Best Capsule

Why it earned this rank: Life Extension is the best capsule pick for readers who value brand presentation and simple serving logic over bulk pricing.

Who should buy it: Readers who prefer a polished capsule from a familiar health brand

Who should skip it: Skip it if you want the lowest cost per serving.

• Best use: simple daily capsule routines.
• Compare bottle count and dose against high-count value picks.
• Avoid using NAC as a substitute for medical care.

3. Nutricost NAC 600 mg – Best Value

Why it earned this rank: Nutricost is the value pick because NAC buying often comes down to dose and count once a reader is comfortable with the ingredient.

Who should buy it: Value shoppers comparing cost per capsule

Who should skip it: Skip it if you prioritize premium label feel or smaller bottles.

• Best use: users who already tolerate NAC and want a larger bottle.
• Compare current price per capsule before buying.
• Store properly because high-count bottles last longer.

4. Thorne NAC – Best Premium Capsule

Why it earned this rank: Thorne earns the premium slot because some readers want the cleanest brand experience and are willing to pay for it.

Who should buy it: Readers who want a premium minimalist supplement brand

Who should skip it: Skip it if you want the most NAC per dollar.

• Best use: premium-brand buyers and ingredient-sensitive routines.
• Note the 500 mg dose when comparing to 600 mg products.
• Check current serving instructions before stacking.

5. Jarrow NAC Sustain – Best Sustained Release

Why it earned this rank: Jarrow is the sustained-release pick because it gives shoppers a format choice that the capsule products do not.

Who should buy it: Readers who specifically want sustained-release tablets

Who should skip it: Skip it if you dislike tablets or do not need sustained-release positioning.

• Best use: readers choosing release profile intentionally.
• Tablets can feel different from capsules.
• Do not assume sustained release is automatically better for your goal.

Best NAC Supplements Comparison Table

Scorecard

How to Choose

Do not buy NAC for medical promises from a review page. If you have a condition, medication, pregnancy, surgery, or respiratory concern, ask a clinician.

Dose clarity matters more than hype. Most readers should compare NAC amount, serving size, and bottle count first.

Antioxidant supplements are context-dependent for athletes. More is not always better, especially if your training goal is adaptation.

Capsule count changes value dramatically. Compare cost per serving, not just the price of the bottle.

Products We Would Skip

We skipped NAC products with cure-style claims, unclear NAC amounts, questionable combo formulas, unverified Amazon pages, or labels that made it hard to compare dose and serving count.

FAQ

What is NAC?

NAC is N-acetylcysteine, a form of the amino acid cysteine. Supplement buyers usually compare it by dose, capsule format, and label simplicity.

Is NAC a recovery supplement?

It is better described cautiously as an antioxidant-related supplement. Research around exercise performance and recovery is mixed and context-dependent.

Can I take NAC with medication?

Ask a healthcare professional. NAC has medical uses and potential interaction considerations, so supplement use should not be casual if you take medication.

What dose should I buy?

This review compares common label doses such as 500 mg and 600 mg. Follow the product label and clinician guidance when relevant.

Bottom Line

Choose NOW for the best overall NAC value, Life Extension for a polished capsule, Nutricost for high-count value, Thorne for a premium minimalist capsule, and Jarrow if sustained-release tablets are the format you want.

Sources

1. Rhodes, K., & Braakhuis, A. (2017). Performance and side effects of supplementation with N-acetylcysteine: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Sports Medicine. Accessed May 22, 2026.
2. International Society of Sports Nutrition. (2026). Position stand: effects of dietary antioxidants on exercise and sports performance. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition. Accessed May 22, 2026.
3. Maughan, R. J., et al. (2018). IOC consensus statement: dietary supplements and the high-performance athlete. British Journal of Sports Medicine. Accessed May 22, 2026.

A protein powder for men should not be judged by the biggest tub or loudest muscle claim. The useful question is whether it helps you hit daily protein targets around the training plan you already follow.

For this FitnessVolt review, we ranked powders by protein density, calories, cost logic, digestion, ingredient simplicity, low-carb usefulness, plant alternatives, and verified Amazon availability.

We checked the current competitor set, including Garage Gym Reviews protein powder rankings, BarBend best protein powders, Men's Health protein powder coverage, Verywell Fit protein powders. Most lists either chase flavor or dump every protein category into one ranking. FitnessVolt keeps the decision tied to training: lean muscle support, protein density, cost per serving, digestive fit, and whether a product belongs in a cut, recomp, or mass phase.

Short on time? Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey is the best overall pick, Dymatize ISO100 Hydrolyzed Protein is the best alternate, and Nutricost Whey Protein Powder is the best specialized pick.

Quick Picks

How We Ranked Best Protein Powders for Men

Last evaluated: May 2026. We rewarded products that make protein targets easier without turning every shake into a calorie bomb. We penalized vague muscle claims, poor serving math, weak value, mystery blends, and products that looked more like branding than nutrition.

Our scoring lens: Protein density, Muscle fit, Macro control, Mixability, Value. For related FitnessVolt context, compare this guide with our mass gainers, sensitive-stomach protein powders, clear protein powders.

1. Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey – Best Overall

Why it earned this rank: Optimum Nutrition wins because it is the most dependable one-tub answer for lifters who need protein support without overthinking the category.

Who should buy it: Most lifters who want one reliable tub

Who should skip it: Skip it if you need lactose-minimized isolate or the lowest possible cost per serving.

• Best use: post-workout, breakfast add-on, or daily protein target support.
• Use it as a protein tool, not a replacement for balanced meals.
• Compare flavor, tub size, and current serving count.

2. Dymatize ISO100 Hydrolyzed Protein – Best Lean Isolate

Why it earned this rank: Dymatize is the lean-isolate pick because it gives lifters more protein with fewer extra calories, which is especially useful during cuts or recomp phases.

Who should buy it: Cutting, lean mass, and low-fat shakes

Who should skip it: Skip it if you are bulking cheaply and do not need isolate-level macros.

• Best use: calorie-controlled shakes after training.
• Works well when protein is high but calories are tight.
• Cost per gram should drive the value decision.

3. Nutricost Whey Protein Powder – Best Value Tub

Why it earned this rank: Nutricost is the value-tub pick because cost per serving matters when a shake is part of the daily routine.

Who should buy it: Budget lifters buying protein by the serving

Who should skip it: Skip it if you want a dessert-like flavor or isolate digestion.

• Best use: budget daily protein and smoothie bases.
• Unflavored powder is flexible but plain.
• Check scoop size and servings when comparing prices.

4. Isopure Zero Carb Protein Powder – Best Low-Carb

Why it earned this rank: Isopure is the low-carb pick because it makes macro tracking simple for lifters who do not want carbs or fats sneaking into a protein shake.

Who should buy it: Low-carb lifters and strict macro tracking

Who should skip it: Skip it if you want the cheapest protein or a creamy dessert texture.

• Best use: cuts, low-carb plans, and recipe add-ins.
• Use milk or fruit only if those calories fit your plan.
• Check whether you are buying a tub or pouch variant.

5. NAKED Pea Protein Powder – Best Minimal Plant Pick

Why it earned this rank: NAKED Pea gives the list a serious plant lane without pretending it tastes or behaves exactly like whey.

Who should buy it: Dairy-free lifters who want a simple plant protein

Who should skip it: Skip it if you dislike earthy plant protein texture.

• Best use: dairy-free protein targets and smoothie recipes.
• Blend with fruit or cocoa if plain pea flavor is too strong.
• Plant-based lifters may need more attention to total daily amino acid variety.

Best Protein Powders for Men Comparison Table

Scorecard

How to Choose

Start with grams of protein per serving and per dollar. The best-looking tub can be poor value if the serving math is weak.

Match the powder to the phase. Cutting favors lean isolates, bulking can tolerate more calories, and maintenance rewards taste and consistency.

Digestive tolerance matters. A cheap whey that makes you avoid shakes is not a bargain.

Plant protein is not just a consolation prize. It is the right answer for some diets, but texture and amino-acid planning deserve attention.

Products We Would Skip

We skipped products with weak protein density, inflated muscle claims, unclear serving math, unverified Amazon pages, or formulas that looked more like mass gainers than everyday protein powders.

FAQ

How much protein powder should men use?

Use enough to help meet daily protein targets. Whole food still matters, and the exact amount depends on body size, training, and diet.

Is whey isolate better than concentrate?

Isolate is usually leaner and may digest better for some users, while concentrate often costs less and tastes creamier.

Can protein powder build muscle by itself?

No. It supports protein intake. Progressive training, total calories, sleep, and consistency still drive results.

Should I buy mass gainer instead?

Only if you struggle to eat enough calories. If you just need protein, a standard protein powder is usually cleaner and easier to control.

Bottom Line

Choose Optimum Nutrition for the safest all-around whey, Dymatize for lean isolate macros, Nutricost for value, Isopure for low-carb tracking, and NAKED Pea for a minimal plant option.

Sources

1. Jager, R., et al. (2017). International Society of Sports Nutrition position stand: protein and exercise. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition. Accessed May 22, 2026.
2. Maughan, R. J., et al. (2018). IOC consensus statement: dietary supplements and the high-performance athlete. British Journal of Sports Medicine. Accessed May 22, 2026.
3. Morton, R. W., et al. (2018). Protein supplementation to augment resistance training adaptations: a systematic review and meta-analysis. British Journal of Sports Medicine. Accessed May 22, 2026.

The best protein powder for women is not the one with the softest label color. It is the one that helps you hit protein targets without overshooting calories, sugar, digestive tolerance, or budget.

For this FitnessVolt review, we ranked products by protein quality, serving math, taste logic, label transparency, digestion fit, third-party testing cues, and Amazon availability.

We checked the current competitor set, including Garage Gym Reviews protein powders for women, Forbes Health protein powder for women, BarBend women's protein powders, Verywell Fit protein powders. Competitors often lean on pink-label marketing or broad protein lists. FitnessVolt treats the category as a training and nutrition decision: protein per serving, calorie fit, sugar, digestion, third-party testing cues, and whether plant or whey fits the reader.

Short on time? Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey is the best overall pick, Dymatize ISO100 Hydrolyzed Protein is the best alternate, and Orgain Organic Vegan Protein Powder is the best specialized pick.

Quick Picks

How We Ranked Best Protein Powders for Women

Last evaluated: May 2026. We rewarded powders with clear protein per serving, reasonable calorie and sugar profiles, useful plant or whey roles, strong mixability signals, and labels that make daily use easy. We penalized vague toning claims, proprietary blends, underdosed servings, and products that made the category feel like a marketing shortcut.

Our scoring lens: Protein quality, Macro fit, Digestive fit, Mixability, Value. For related FitnessVolt context, compare this guide with our creatine supplements for women, protein powders for sensitive stomachs, ready-to-drink protein shakes.

1. Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Whey – Best Overall

Why it earned this rank: Optimum Nutrition wins overall because it is the easiest recommendation for most training goals: enough protein, reasonable serving size, broad flavor availability, and a long track record.

Who should buy it: Most active women who want a reliable daily whey

Who should skip it: Skip it if dairy tolerance is poor or you need a strict isolate.

• Best use: post-workout shakes, breakfast protein, or protein target support.
• Pair with food if a shake alone does not keep you full.
• Check flavor-specific calories and serving counts.

2. Dymatize ISO100 Hydrolyzed Protein – Best Lean Isolate

Why it earned this rank: Dymatize ISO100 is the lean-isolate pick because the macro math is clean and easy for readers cutting calories or keeping shakes light.

Who should buy it: Lean macros and easy whey-isolate digestion

Who should skip it: Skip it if budget matters more than isolate purity.

• Best use: calorie-controlled phases and quick post-training shakes.
• Use water for the leanest shake or milk for more calories.
• Compare cost per serving, not tub price.

3. Orgain Organic Vegan Protein Powder – Best Plant-Based

Why it earned this rank: Orgain is the plant-based daily pick because it works for readers who want a vegan shake that feels approachable in smoothies and meal-adjacent use.

Who should buy it: Plant-based daily shakes with a softer taste profile

Who should skip it: Skip it if you want the highest protein-to-calorie ratio.

• Best use: smoothies, oats, and daily protein support.
• Plant proteins often need more liquid and blending time.
• Check allergens and sweeteners by flavor.

4. Garden of Life Sport Organic Plant Protein – Best Third-Party Tested Plant Protein

Why it earned this rank: Garden of Life Sport earns the tested plant slot because supplement trust matters more for athletes subject to strict ingredient standards.

Who should buy it: Plant-based athletes who value sport testing signals

Who should skip it: Skip it if you only need the cheapest vegan protein.

• Best use: plant-based training routines and athletes wanting stronger testing cues.
• Blend longer than whey for best texture.
• Check certification details on the current label.

5. Isopure Zero Carb Protein Powder – Best Low-Carb

Why it earned this rank: Isopure belongs here because some readers need protein with minimal carb and calorie baggage. It is less exciting, but very practical.

Who should buy it: Low-carb or very macro-controlled shakes

Who should skip it: Skip it if taste and creamy texture matter more than strict macros.

• Best use: low-carb plans and protein add-ins.
• Unflavored powder works in recipes but is not a dessert shake.
• Check serving size because tubs vary.

Best Protein Powders for Women Comparison Table

Scorecard

How to Choose

Ignore gendered marketing first. Protein target, calories, sugar, digestion, and taste matter more than whether a tub says women on the front.

Pick the protein type that matches your body and diet. Whey is efficient for many users; plant protein is better for vegan diets and some dairy-sensitive readers.

Calculate cost per serving and grams of protein per dollar. A cheaper tub can be worse value if each serving is small.

For athletes, testing cues matter. Look for credible third-party testing or sport certification when contamination risk matters.

Products We Would Skip

We skipped powders that relied on toning claims, had low protein per serving, buried sweetener details, used vague blends, lacked confident Amazon verification, or felt like a pink-tax version of an average protein.

FAQ

Do women need a different protein powder than men?

Not usually. The better question is whether the protein source, calories, sugar, serving size, and digestion fit your goals.

Is whey or plant protein better?

Whey is efficient and high in essential amino acids. Plant protein can be excellent if it fits your diet and you choose a product with enough protein per serving.

When should I take protein powder?

Timing can help, but daily protein intake matters most. Use shakes when food alone makes protein targets hard.

Can protein powder help with fat loss?

It can help you hit protein targets with controlled calories, but it does not replace a calorie-appropriate diet and training plan.

Bottom Line

Choose Optimum Nutrition for the best all-around whey, Dymatize for a lean isolate, Orgain for a plant-based daily shake, Garden of Life Sport for tested plant protein, and Isopure if low-carb macros matter most.

Sources

1. Jager, R., et al. (2017). International Society of Sports Nutrition position stand: protein and exercise. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition. Accessed May 22, 2026.
2. Maughan, R. J., et al. (2018). IOC consensus statement: dietary supplements and the high-performance athlete. British Journal of Sports Medicine. Accessed May 22, 2026.
3. Moore, D. R., et al. (2015). Protein ingestion to stimulate myofibrillar protein synthesis requires greater relative protein intakes in healthy older versus younger men. Journals of Gerontology. Accessed May 22, 2026.

A treadmill desk only works if it disappears into your workday. A loud motor, awkward remote, wobbly deck, or poor desk clearance will turn the best intention into a machine you avoid.

For this FitnessVolt review, we focused on low-speed walking under a standing desk rather than running performance. That means desk fit, noise, belt feel, controls, storage, and call-friendly usability carried more weight than top speed.

We checked the current competitor set, including Wirecutter under-desk treadmill coverage, Garage Gym Reviews walking pad coverage, Forbes Vetted treadmill desks, Tom's Guide under-desk treadmills. Many treadmill-desk lists blur walking pads with actual desk setups. FitnessVolt keeps the buying question practical: which units fit under a workstation, stay quiet enough for calls, store easily, and make walking while working realistic.

Short on time? UREVO SpaceWalk Under Desk Treadmill is the best overall pick, GOYOUTH 2 in 1 Under Desk Treadmill is the best alternate, and WalkingPad C2 Foldable Walking Treadmill is the best specialized pick.

Quick Picks

How We Ranked Best Treadmill Desks

Last evaluated: May 2026. We rewarded walking pads that fit under a standing desk, are easy to start and stop, keep controls simple, and can be stored without turning the office into an obstacle course. We penalized high-handrail running treadmills, unclear deck dimensions, weak remote-control details, and listings that did not make workstation use obvious.

Our scoring lens: Desk fit, Walking feel, Noise control, Storage, Workday value. For related FitnessVolt context, compare this guide with our walking pads and under-desk treadmills, compact ellipticals, home gym flooring mats.

1. UREVO SpaceWalk Under Desk Treadmill – Best Overall

Why it earned this rank: UREVO wins overall because it solves the main treadmill-desk job without overcomplicating the setup.

Who should buy it: Most home-office users who want a simple desk-walking setup

Who should skip it: Skip it if you want incline training or running speeds.

• Best use: low-speed walking during email, reading, and admin work.
• Keep speeds conservative for typing accuracy and call stability.
• Use a mat if noise transfers through the floor.

2. GOYOUTH 2 in 1 Under Desk Treadmill – Best Workday Value

Why it earned this rank: GOYOUTH is the workday-value pick because it covers the office-walking basics without pushing shoppers into a premium price tier.

Who should buy it: Buyers who want a value-friendly office walking pad

Who should skip it: Skip it if you want a premium dedicated desk-treadmill base.

• Best use: walking blocks between focused work sessions.
• Pair with an adjustable standing desk, not a fixed-height table.
• Remote placement matters if you need quick stops.

3. WalkingPad C2 Foldable Walking Treadmill – Best Folding Desk Treadmill

Why it earned this rank: WalkingPad C2 earns the folding slot because storage is often the deciding feature in a real home office.

Who should buy it: Small offices that need folding storage

Who should skip it: Skip it if you have permanent floor space and prefer a one-piece deck.

• Best use: apartments, guest rooms, and shared offices.
• Confirm folded dimensions before buying.
• Make sure your desk height leaves comfortable arm position while walking.

4. LifeSpan Fitness TR Glowup Series – Best Dedicated Desk Base

Why it earned this rank: LifeSpan belongs here because dedicated desk walkers often want a base that feels like office equipment, not a temporary workout gadget.

Who should buy it: Readers building a more permanent workstation

Who should skip it: Skip it if you need the easiest unit to slide away after every session.

• Best use: permanent standing-desk setups.
• Plan cable routing and storage before buying.
• The value depends on how many hours per week you will actually walk.

5. DeerRun Q1 Mini Under Desk Treadmill – Best Compact App-Connected

Why it earned this rank: DeerRun is the compact connected pick because it fits the reader who wants a small walking deck plus tracking features without a large treadmill frame.

Who should buy it: Compact app-connected walking in smaller rooms

Who should skip it: Skip it if you have a long stride and want the roomiest deck.

• Best use: short walking blocks and habit tracking.
• Check deck length against your natural walking stride.
• Keep expectations focused on workday movement, not athletic conditioning.

Best Treadmill Desks Comparison Table

Scorecard

How to Choose

Buy the desk setup, not just the treadmill. Desk height, keyboard position, cable routing, and stop controls decide whether walking feels natural.

Top speed matters less than slow-speed smoothness. Most productive desk walking happens at conservative speeds.

Noise travels through floors. A good mat and stable placement can matter as much as motor specs.

Storage is a real feature. If you need to move the treadmill daily, weight, wheels, and folded dimensions matter.

Products We Would Skip

We skipped treadmills with tall fixed handrails, unclear desk clearance, poor product imagery, no confident Amazon page, running-first positioning, or office photos that looked staged but impractical.

FAQ

Is a treadmill desk good for weight loss?

It can increase daily movement, but it should be treated as activity support, not a complete weight-loss plan.

How fast should I walk while working?

Most people do best at a slow conversational pace. If typing accuracy or call quality drops, slow down.

Do treadmill desks replace workouts?

No. They add low-intensity movement during sedentary time. Strength training and purposeful cardio still matter.

Do I need a standing desk?

Yes, for true treadmill-desk use. A fixed desk is rarely the right height once the treadmill raises your standing position.

Bottom Line

Choose UREVO for the best overall desk-walking setup, GOYOUTH for workday value, WalkingPad C2 for folding storage, LifeSpan for a dedicated desk-treadmill base, and DeerRun if app-connected compact walking is the priority.

Sources

1. American Heart Association. (n.d.). Recommendations for physical activity in adults. Accessed May 22, 2026.
2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). Adult physical activity guidelines. Accessed May 22, 2026.
3. John, D., et al. (2011). Treadmill workstations: a worksite physical activity intervention in overweight and obese office workers. Journal of Physical Activity and Health. Accessed May 22, 2026.

A compact elliptical is not just a smaller version of a gym machine. The shorter footprint changes stride feel, handle path, stability, and how much space you need around the machine to use it comfortably.

For this FitnessVolt review, we ranked compact ellipticals like real small-space cardio equipment: footprint first, then stride quality, resistance range, noise expectations, setup burden, rider fit, and whether the Amazon page could be verified.

We checked the current competitor set, including Garage Gym Reviews compact ellipticals, Verywell Fit best ellipticals, BarBend elliptical coverage, Treadmill Review Guru compact ellipticals. Competing lists often lump full-size ellipticals, seated pedals, and budget cardio into one pile. FitnessVolt separates stride machines from under-desk pedals, explains what compact really costs you in stride length and stability, and gives small-space shoppers a clear pick by room size.

Short on time? Niceday Elliptical Machine is the best overall pick, Schwinn Fitness 411 Compact Elliptical is the best alternate, and YOSUDA Foldable Elliptical Machine is the best specialized pick.

Quick Picks

How We Ranked Best Compact Ellipticals

Last evaluated: May 2026. We rewarded machines that make sense in apartments, spare rooms, and shared home gyms without turning every workout into a compromise. We penalized vague dimensions, flimsy-looking frames, too-short stride claims, awkward console placement, and products that looked compact only because the photos hid the clearance needed to use them.

Our scoring lens: Footprint, Stride feel, Stability, Resistance range, Value. For related FitnessVolt context, compare this guide with our walking pads and under-desk treadmills, air bikes for conditioning, home gym flooring mats.

1. Niceday Elliptical Machine – Best Overall

Why it earned this rank: Niceday wins because it keeps the small-space promise without feeling like a toy. The stride and frame give it a stronger training ceiling than ultra-compact pedals, making it the better choice for users who want real low-impact cardio.

Who should buy it: Most small-space users who still want a serious stride

Who should skip it: Skip it if your space only fits a machine that slides under a desk or bed.

• Measure floor space and user clearance, not just the product footprint.
• Best for steady-state cardio, warm-ups, and joint-friendlier conditioning.
• Use flooring protection if the machine will live on hardwood or an upstairs room.

2. Schwinn Fitness 411 Compact Elliptical – Best Premium Compact Pick

Why it earned this rank: Schwinn is the premium compact pick because brand support and console polish matter when a machine will be used several days per week.

Who should buy it: Buyers who want a familiar brand and console-forward experience

Who should skip it: Skip it if lowest price or easiest storage is the main priority.

• Best for users who want a familiar home-cardio feel.
• Check ceiling and step-up height if the room has low clearance.
• The value is strongest if you care about console usability.

3. YOSUDA Foldable Elliptical Machine – Best Foldable

Why it earned this rank: YOSUDA earns the foldable slot because storage friction is what kills home-cardio consistency for many apartment users.

Who should buy it: Readers who need a machine that can leave the center of the room

Who should skip it: Skip it if you want the heaviest, most planted feel over storage flexibility.

• Best for shared rooms where cardio gear cannot stay out all day.
• Check folded and unfolded dimensions before buying.
• Taller users should be careful with stride expectations.

4. Cubii JR1 Under Desk Elliptical – Best Under-Desk Compact

Why it earned this rank: Cubii is not trying to replace a full elliptical. It wins the under-desk role because it makes movement possible where a full machine never fits.

Who should buy it: Office movement, low-intensity circulation breaks, and seated users

Who should skip it: Skip it if you want standing cardio, interval work, or full-body handles.

• Best for seated movement during work blocks.
• Think of it as movement volume, not hard conditioning.
• Check desk height and knee clearance.

5. ANCHEER Elliptical Machine – Best Budget Full-Stride

Why it earned this rank: ANCHEER gives budget shoppers a standing option without dropping all the way to seated pedals.

Who should buy it: Budget shoppers who still want a standing elliptical

Who should skip it: Skip it if you are a heavy daily user who needs the most stable machine in the list.

• Best for moderate cardio and beginner home-gym use.
• Tighten and inspect hardware after the first few sessions.
• Compare warranty and current listing details before buying.

Best Compact Ellipticals Comparison Table

Scorecard

How to Choose

Start with the room, then the machine. Measure length, width, ceiling height, and side clearance before falling in love with a spec sheet.

Stride length is the main compromise. A compact frame can be convenient, but very short strides may feel choppy for taller users.

Under-desk ellipticals are a different category. They are useful for seated movement, but they should not be judged like standing full-body machines.

Noise and floor protection matter in apartments. Magnetic resistance helps, but placement, flooring, and pedal smoothness still affect the experience.

Products We Would Skip

We skipped listings with unclear dimensions, weak product imagery, obvious copycat claims, missing Amazon confirmation, exaggerated calorie promises, or machines that looked compact only because the photos hid the user clearance.

FAQ

Are compact ellipticals effective?

Yes, if the machine fits your stride and is stable enough to use consistently. They are best for low-impact cardio, warm-ups, and steady movement rather than maximal sprint work.

What is the difference between a compact elliptical and an under-desk elliptical?

A compact elliptical is usually a standing full-body machine. An under-desk elliptical is a seated pedal unit for light movement while working.

How much space do I need?

Use the machine footprint as the starting point, then add room for mounting, stride movement, ventilation, and safe dismounting.

Are compact ellipticals quiet?

Many magnetic-resistance models are quiet, but noise also comes from floor contact, user cadence, loose hardware, and room acoustics.

Bottom Line

Choose Niceday if you want the strongest all-around compact elliptical, Schwinn if you want a known brand and polished console, YOSUDA if storage matters most, Cubii if you need seated under-desk movement, and ANCHEER if you want a lower-cost full-stride option.

Sources

1. American Heart Association. (n.d.). Recommendations for physical activity in adults. Accessed May 22, 2026.
2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024). Adult physical activity guidelines. Accessed May 22, 2026.
3. American College of Sports Medicine. (2009). Progression models in resistance training for healthy adults. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise. Accessed May 22, 2026.

An air bike is the cardio machine that refuses to let you coast. The harder you push and pull, the harder the fan pushes back. That makes it brutal for HIIT, useful for low-impact conditioning, and loud enough that apartment buyers need to think before clicking buy.

For this FitnessVolt review, we ranked air bikes by fan resistance, handle path, console usefulness, seat adjustment, footprint, noise expectations, transport, home-gym fit, and Amazon availability.

We checked the current competitor set, including RunBikeCalc best air bikes 2026, Garage Gym Reviews air bike coverage, BarBend air bike coverage, Tom's Guide exercise bike coverage. Many air-bike pages center premium commercial machines that are not always easy Amazon buys. FitnessVolt focuses this roundup on Amazon-available home fan bikes and makes the buying decision practical: fan feel, handle path, seat adjustment, console usefulness, noise, and whether the bike belongs in a garage gym or a small apartment.

Short on time? Sunny Health & Fitness Premium Smart Fan Bike is the best overall pick, Marcy Air-Resistance Exercise Fan Bike is the best alternate, and Marcy AIR-1 Exercise Fan Bike is the best specialized pick.

Quick Picks

How We Ranked Best Air Bikes

Last evaluated: May 2026. We favored fan bikes with a clear resistance system, moving arms, visible console, adjustable seat, stable frame design, transport-friendly footprint, and product photos that made the build easy to inspect. We penalized vague listings, weak adjustability, unclear warranty signals, and bikes that looked more like generic upright bikes than true air-resistance trainers.

Our scoring lens: Fan resistance, Frame/handle design, Console utility, Home-gym fit, Value logic. For related FitnessVolt context, compare this guide with our folding exercise bikes, exercise bike workouts, walking pads.

1. Sunny Health & Fitness Premium Smart Fan Bike – Best smart value

Why it earned this rank: Sunny wins best overall because it gives home buyers the most complete mix of fan resistance, smart training appeal, frame presence, and Amazon accessibility without jumping into premium commercial pricing.

Who should buy it: Most home users who want value plus smarter tracking

Who should skip it: Skip it if you want a barebones bike with no app or smart-console angle.

• Best use: HIIT intervals, mixed conditioning circuits, and garage-gym cardio finishers.
• Setup note: leave clearance around the fan and handles; air bikes need more room than they look like they do.
• Buyer check: confirm ceiling, floor space, and noise tolerance before buying.

2. Marcy Air-Resistance Exercise Fan Bike – Best budget fan bike

Why it earned this rank: Marcy is the budget pick because it gives readers the core air-bike experience: fan resistance and moving arms. It is not fancy, but it gets the category right.

Who should buy it: Budget buyers who want the air-bike feel without premium pricing

Who should skip it: Skip it if you want heavier-duty sprint intervals or a more advanced console.

• Best use: moderate intervals, beginner conditioning, and light home-gym cardio.
• Setup note: expect basic tracking; use an external timer if interval precision matters.
• Buyer check: compare the seat and handle fit against your height before committing.

3. Marcy AIR-1 Exercise Fan Bike – Best classic entry pick

Why it earned this rank: The AIR-1 is the classic entry pick because it looks and behaves like the air bike most readers imagine: fan wheel, moving arms, and straightforward effort-based resistance.

Who should buy it: Readers who want a familiar entry air-bike layout

Who should skip it: Skip it if you want smart workouts, heavier construction, or a commercial-style frame.

• Best use: simple interval training and full-body conditioning.
• Setup note: use short intervals at first; fan bikes can spike effort fast.
• Buyer check: make sure the listed dimensions fit your workout corner.

4. pooboo Air Resistance Fan Bike – Best Bluetooth option

Why it earned this rank: pooboo earns the Bluetooth slot because some buyers want more than a timer but do not want to pay premium commercial-bike prices. It gives the category a connected option.

Who should buy it: Readers who want app-friendly training on a home fan bike

Who should skip it: Skip it if you prefer simple machines with fewer electronics.

• Best use: app-guided conditioning and home HIIT sessions.
• Setup note: test the console and app early so return windows do not close on a feature you dislike.
• Buyer check: prioritize fit and frame feel over Bluetooth if you are choosing between similar prices.

5. HOMGX Air-Resistance Exercise Bike – Best simple home fan bike

Why it earned this rank: HOMGX is the simple home fan bike pick. It belongs here for readers who want the air-bike format without overbuying features they may never use.

Who should buy it: Readers who want a straightforward home fan bike

Who should skip it: Skip it if you want the most established brand or a premium console.

• Best use: home conditioning, warmups, and interval finishers.
• Setup note: use a mat if the bike lives on hardwood or slick flooring.
• Buyer check: confirm user weight, warranty terms, and assembly expectations on the current listing.

Best Air Bikes Comparison Table

Scorecard

How to Choose

Buy an air bike for effort-based conditioning, not quiet cruising. If you want silent steady cardio, a magnetic bike or walking pad may be a better fit.

Handle path matters. Moving arms make the bike feel more total-body, but they also demand shoulder, grip, and trunk coordination during hard intervals.

Console quality matters more than it seems. Air-bike workouts often use intervals, calories, watts, or time targets, so a readable console makes sessions easier to run.

Be honest about noise and space. Fan resistance is part of the appeal, but the fan, handles, and aggressive intervals can be a poor fit for shared walls.

Products We Would Skip

We skipped upright bikes mislabeled as air bikes, fan bikes with unclear moving-arm design, vague console information, poor product photos, and listings that hid basic fit details like footprint or adjustability.

FAQ

Are air bikes good for HIIT?

Yes. Fan resistance rewards harder effort immediately, which makes air bikes useful for short intervals, conditioning finishers, and scalable high-intensity work.

Are air bikes noisy?

Usually, yes. The fan creates airflow and sound, especially during hard intervals. Apartment buyers should take noise seriously.

Is an air bike better than a spin bike?

For brutal intervals and total-body effort, often yes. For quiet steady rides, classes, or long seated cardio, a spin bike can be better.

How should beginners use an air bike?

Start with short controlled intervals and longer recovery. The machine scales with effort, so beginners do not need all-out sprints to get a hard workout.

Bottom Line

Choose Sunny Health & Fitness if you want the smartest value bike, Marcy Air-Resistance if budget is the main limit, Marcy AIR-1 if you want a classic entry fan bike, pooboo if Bluetooth matters, and HOMGX if you want a simple home fan bike with fewer extras.

Sources

1. American College of Sports Medicine. (n.d.). High-intensity interval training. Accessed May 22, 2026.
2. American Heart Association. (n.d.). Recommendations for physical activity in adults. Accessed May 22, 2026.
3. American College of Sports Medicine. (2009). Progression models in resistance training for healthy adults. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise. Accessed May 22, 2026.