Derek Lunsford’s 2023 Olympia prep is entering its final stage, and he is leaving no stone unturned to dethrone Hadi Choopan on Nov. 5. Five weeks out of the competition, Lunsford went through an intense pull-day workout and posted the video on his YouTube channel.
Derek Lunsford is not just another bodybuilder; he’s a force to be reckoned with in the world of professional bodybuilding. As he gears up for the 2023 Olympia, it’s evident that he’s on a mission to seize the coveted title and etch his name in bodybuilding history. With just five weeks remaining until the Olympia showdown, Lunsford’s journey to glory is reaching its climax.
The Rise of Derek Lunsford
Derek Lunsford recently went through a pull-day workout as a part of his 2023 Olympia prep. He is currently dieting down, and the primary goal of his workouts is to isolate the muscles rather than going too heavy. Additionally, Lunsford has changed the exercise sequence from his previous workouts. So without further delay, let’s see how the former 212 champion trained his back and biceps five weeks out of the 2023 Olympia.
Lunsford’s rise in the world of professional bodybuilding has been nothing short of spectacular. He initially competed in the 212 division, where he made steady progress through the early years of his career. His hard work and dedication culminated in a historic victory when he dethroned Shaun Clarida to become the 212 Olympia champion in 2021. However, as his physique continued to evolve, it became apparent that the 212 division could no longer contain his potential.
The Olympia management recognized Lunsford’s immense talent and accepted his request for a special invitation to compete in the Men’s Open division. This marked a momentous shift in Lunsford’s career, as he stepped onto the Men’s Open Olympia stage in 2022. The bodybuilding world watched in awe as Lunsford dominated the stage alongside giants like Hadi Choopan and Nick Walker, ultimately securing a remarkable runner-up finish. It was a testament to Lunsford’s determination and the limitless possibilities of his physique.
A Two-Division Olympia Champion in the Making
Most experts believe that Hadi Choopan, Nick Walker, and Derek Lunsford will once again be competing for the top three spots at the 2023 Olympia. However, Lunsford has not been complacent about his chances, and the recent physique updates are a testimony to the same.
Derek Lunsford is no stranger to the Olympia stage, and he’s well aware of the formidable competition he faces. As the 2023 Olympia approaches, experts and fans alike anticipate another intense battle for the top three spots. Hadi Choopan, Nick Walker, and Derek Lunsford are expected to be the frontrunners, but Lunsford is not resting on his laurels. His recent physique updates are clear evidence of his relentless pursuit of perfection.
Derek Lunsford’s Pull-Day Workout
Close Neutral Grip Lat Pulldown
Lunsford’s pull-day workout is a carefully crafted masterpiece designed to sculpt his back and biceps into works of art. With the Olympia drawing nearer, Lunsford’s training regimen becomes increasingly critical. His workouts prioritize muscle isolation over heavy lifting, ensuring that every fiber of his muscles is honed to perfection.
The pull-day workout kicks off with the close neutral grip lat pulldown. This exercise targets the lower lats and provides a solid stimulus to kickstart the session. The close grip engages the biceps to a greater degree while directing the focus to the lower part of the lats. It’s a strategic choice by Lunsford to build a balanced and aesthetically pleasing back.
Wide Grip Lat Pulldown
Next on the agenda is the wide grip lat pulldown, a staple exercise in back development. Unlike traditional pull-ups, this variation demands less physical strength while engaging all the muscles that make up an impressive back. The latissimus dorsi takes center stage, but the biceps and forearms also come into play. Lunsford’s execution of wide-grip lat pulldowns is precise and purposeful, setting the stage for what lies ahead.
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Hammer Strength Reverse Grip Low Rows
As Lunsford progresses through his pull-day workout, the focus shifts to imparting thickness to his back. Enter the Hammer Strength reverse grip low rows, a horizontal pulling movement that targets the lower lats. The choice of this exercise is a testament to Lunsford’s commitment to balanced muscle development. It’s not just about width; it’s about creating a three-dimensional masterpiece.
Bent Over Barbell Rows
Few exercises rival the power and effectiveness of barbell rows when it comes to building strength and muscle. Lunsford knows this well, which is why he incorporates bent over barbell rows into his routine. This compound movement engages nearly all the muscles in the upper body’s posterior chain, contributing to a complete back development. As Lunsford moves substantial weights with precision, his back takes on a form that demands respect.
Rack Pulls
Here, Lunsford gets philosophical.
“I’m not able to go quite as heavy as I could have if I would’ve put this like second or third in the workout. But that’s not the point. I can still lift a good amount of weight, feel strong,” Lunsford said.
While speaking about its benefits for back development, the 30-year-old stated:“I love these because it lights up everything in the back! Everything from the lower lats to the upper traps, the mid traps, rear delts, rhomboids… Everything! This is a great exercise to hit the entire back and to build the strength too. To keep your strength up…”
Rack pulls are a potent weapon in Lunsford’s arsenal. This deadlift variation hones in on the upper half of the movement, lifting the weight from the rack instead of the floor. The range of motion is shorter, but the gains in size are significant. While some may choose to perform rack pulls earlier in their routine, Lunsford strategically places them towards the end. It’s not about lifting the heaviest weights; it’s about building strength and translating it into a sculpted masterpiece.
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Speaking of the benefits of rack pulls, Lunsford emphasizes their impact on the entire back, from the lower lats to the upper traps, mid traps, rear delts, and rhomboids. It’s a holistic approach to back development that defines Lunsford’s training philosophy.
Chest Supported T-Bar Rows
The pull-day workout wouldn’t be complete without chest supported T-bar rows. This exercise is a favorite among bodybuilders for good reason. It engages the lats, rhomboids, traps, posterior deltoids, forearms, and biceps. It’s a comprehensive back builder that indirectly involves lower body muscles like glutes and hamstrings. For Lunsford, it’s an essential component of his quest for a legendary physique.
Dumbbell Hammer Curls
As Lunsford wraps up his intense pull-day workout, the focus shifts to his biceps. Dumbbell hammer curls take center stage, targeting the biceps brachii, brachialis, and the Brachioradialis muscles. These curls add girth to his forearms and biceps, enhancing the overall aesthetics of his arms. The workout concludes with heavy sets of dumbbell hammer curls, a testament to Lunsford’s dedication to every facet of his physique.
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The Countdown to Olympia Glory
Derek Lunsford has four workouts left for each body part before the 2023 Olympia takes place. He is putting in the last bit of work to become the first two-division Olympia champion. All we need to do is wait and watch if he achieves the goal this year.
The 2023 Olympia is fast approaching, and the excitement in the bodybuilding community is palpable. As Derek Lunsford puts the finishing touches on his physique, he is on the cusp of making history. With four workouts left for each body part, Lunsford’s dedication, discipline, and determination are evident. The goal is clear: to become the first-ever two-division Olympia champion. As the clock counts down to the Olympia showdown, one question remains: Will Derek Lunsford achieve his dream?
Derek Lunsford’s Olympia 2023 Training Roster
1. Lat Pulldown (Close Neutral Grip)
- Focus: Lower Lats
- Equipment: Lat pulldown machine with a neutral grip handle.
2. Lat Pulldown (Wide Grip)
- Focus: Upper and Middle Lats
- Equipment: Lat pulldown machine with a wide grip bar.
3. Low Rows (Hammer Strength Reverse Grip)
- Focus: Lower Lats, Mid-back
- Equipment: Hammer Strength machine.
4. Barbell Rows (Bent Over)
- Focus: Entire Back – Lats, Rhomboids, and Traps
- Equipment: Barbell.
5. Rack Pulls
- Focus: Upper Back, Lower Back, Glutes, and Hamstrings
- Equipment: Power rack and barbell.
6. T-Bar Rows (Chest Supported)
- Focus: Middle and Upper Back
- Equipment: T-Bar row machine.
7. Hammer Curls (Dumbbell)
- Focus: Biceps and Forearms
- Equipment: Dumbbells.
For a detailed visual journey, enthusiasts can tune into Derek Lunsford’s personal YouTube channel:
Overview
The road to Olympia glory is paved with sweat, determination, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Derek Lunsford exemplifies these qualities as he prepares for the 2023 Olympia. His pull-day workout showcases the intensity and precision required to sculpt a physique worthy of the Olympia stage. As Lunsford pushes his limits in the gym, he continues to inspire and motivate countless fans worldwide. The 2023 Olympia promises to be an unforgettable spectacle, and Derek Lunsford is undoubtedly one of its brightest stars.
Now, it’s just a matter of time before we find out if Lunsford’s efforts will crown him the two-division Olympia champion. Regardless of the outcome, his journey serves as a testament to what’s possible with passion, dedication, and an unwavering belief in oneself. The bodybuilding world waits with bated breath to witness the culmination of Derek Lunsford’s epic journey.
Featured Image @Derek Lunsford_ (Instagram & Youtube)
