Axioma's Journal and Journey to Masters Nationals 2011

**axioma** · 07-25-2011, 01:39 PM

I know it has been a LONG time. I won't try to catch everyone up in one sitting however the MRI on left shoulder reveals:
Torn labrum
Torn biceps tendon
Torn subscap major
Torn biceps sheath
Vary from minor to major...surgery is a must.
Most of you know the recup time for this type of surgery...the worst things:
I will pay out of pocket, don't have health coverage...I'm the scourge of Obama nation...self employed.
I earn my living with my hands...massage therapist. OK, enough of this shit.

**axioma** · 07-25-2011, 01:59 PM

Master Nationals: ......quality was DOWWWWN from last year (the men, the ladies continue to push the envelope)
Granted, all of my observations are based on photos only...so
First the positives:
1. James Robertson, 50+ heavy...best physique in the show...period.
2. Tim Gaillard...beautiful physique...thought he should have had a procard.
3. Willie Vegas...great physique...a bit smooth. Glutes?
4. Prince Fontenot...congratulations man. You have knocked and knocked and you showed up with your frame MAXED out with muscle. Maybe not quite as ripped as the past, but damn dude, you look dense. Well done.
OK, the negatives:
1. Lance Johnson...I know everyone LOVES this guy...but this was a GIFT...a big ribcage should not trump lines and cuts.
2. BSA? WTF?
3. Murrel Hall over Peter Finch...WTF?

In general...I am appalled at the total disrespect that so many competitors had for this contest...contempt even. Why else would so many of them show up completely out of condition looking like shit? I am talking about guys who earn a LIVING from this sport...a GOOD living...Rodney Roller...shit. Mel Chauncey...shit. Tad "the Diet Coach" Inoue...shit. I mean....is Roller SOOO full of his XXXX attitude that he thought he had a chance looking like that?

I'm off to do the only thing I can...legs.

**axioma** · 07-25-2011, 02:18 PM

Oh, BTW...on the women...yes, they tend to come in with better overall conditioning than the guys...seems to be better overall depth, however starting to see the big guts...Pappas especially.

Margaret Negrete should have won a procard...outstanding lines, conditioning...muscles but never sacrificing a very feminine presentation...just a really pretty lady. Woman....you got robbed, lol.

**AnglicanBeachParty** · 07-25-2011, 02:49 PM

Originally Posted by axioma

Master Nationals: ......quality was DOWWWWN from last year (the men, the ladies continue to push the envelope)
Granted, all of my observations are based on photos only...so
First the positives:
1. James Robertson, 50+ heavy...best physique in the show...period.
2. Tim Gaillard...beautiful physique...thought he should have had a procard.
3. Willie Vegas...great physique...a bit smooth. Glutes?
4. Prince Fontenot...congratulations man. You have knocked and knocked and you showed up with your frame MAXED out with muscle. Maybe not quite as ripped as the past, but damn dude, you look dense. Well done.
OK, the negatives:
1. Lance Johnson...I know everyone LOVES this guy...but this was a GIFT...a big ribcage should not trump lines and cuts.
2. BSA? WTF?
3. Murrel Hall over Peter Finch...WTF?

In general...I am appalled at the total disrespect that so many competitors had for this contest...contempt even. Why else would so many of them show up completely out of condition looking like shit? I am talking about guys who earn a LIVING from this sport...a GOOD living...Rodney Roller...shit. Mel Chauncey...shit. Tad "the Diet Coach" Inoue...shit. I mean....is Roller SOOO full of his XXXX attitude that he thought he had a chance looking like that?

I'm off to do the only thing I can...legs.

I was in Pittsburgh, and I agree with a lot of what you say here.

I'm curious what you think of Terry Lewis (6th in LHW over 40). He's from here in Michigan, and is still kind of new to competitive bodybuilding.

**axioma** · 07-25-2011, 03:23 PM

He looks great! Probably won't have much problem making it as a heavyweight though, big frame to pack more on and keep his lines.

**Hammerfit** · 07-25-2011, 03:28 PM

Originally Posted by axioma

I know it has been a LONG time. I won't try to catch everyone up in one sitting however the MRI on left shoulder reveals:
Torn labrum
Torn biceps tendon
Torn subscap major
Torn biceps sheath
Vary from minor to major...surgery is a must.
Most of you know the recup time for this type of surgery...the worst things:
I will pay out of pocket, don't have health coverage...I'm the scourge of Obama nation...self employed.
I earn my living with my hands...massage therapist. OK, enough of this shit.

Damn! That bites about the shoulder......are you planning on having it done soon?

**Hammerfit** · 07-25-2011, 03:35 PM

Originally Posted by axioma

Master Nationals: ......quality was DOWWWWN from last year (the men, the ladies continue to push the envelope)
Granted, all of my observations are based on photos only...so
First the positives:
1. James Robertson, 50+ heavy...best physique in the show...period.
2. Tim Gaillard...beautiful physique...thought he should have had a procard.
3. Willie Vegas...great physique...a bit smooth. Glutes?
4. Prince Fontenot...congratulations man. You have knocked and knocked and you showed up with your frame MAXED out with muscle. Maybe not quite as ripped as the past, but damn dude, you look dense. Well done.
OK, the negatives:
1. Lance Johnson...I know everyone LOVES this guy...but this was a GIFT...a big ribcage should not trump lines and cuts.
2. BSA? WTF?
3. Murrel Hall over Peter Finch...WTF?

In general...I am appalled at the total disrespect that so many competitors had for this contest...contempt even. Why else would so many of them show up completely out of condition looking like shit? I am talking about guys who earn a LIVING from this sport...a GOOD living...Rodney Roller...shit. Mel Chauncey...shit. Tad "the Diet Coach" Inoue...shit. I mean....is Roller SOOO full of his XXXX attitude that he thought he had a chance looking like that?

I'm off to do the only thing I can...legs.

I agree....
James Robertson, 50+ heavy...best physique in the show...

**rcp1936** · 07-25-2011, 04:25 PM

Based on the pics I agree Finch got screwed
See my posing under Baldies original thread

**V-Man** · 07-25-2011, 10:48 PM

Ax,

See what the hospital has to offer before surgery. A lot of them like the one I work at have charity care because to keep our tax free status the government says we have to do so much free work.

Also check on discounts and payment plans beforehand. A lot of hospitals will make a deal so as to recover some money.

**axioma** · 07-26-2011, 09:09 AM

I have yet to consult with the surgeon, several actually. I will have to close my massage office, can't work for 4-6 months. Massage is actually harder on my shoulders than working out!

There are some things I need to get done, on house, business, before I am down an arm.

I will definately negotiate for cash deal...thanks for stopping by.

BTW, really inspired by the guys and gals on this forum...doing your thing, getting better each show...that is the way it is done.

**V-Man** · 07-26-2011, 06:11 PM

How did this whole arm thing happen. I did not go back to read.

Hang in there, you will be in my thoughts and prayers.

**rcp1936** · 07-27-2011, 08:07 AM

Originally Posted by axioma

I have yet to consult with the surgeon, several actually. I will have to close my massage office, can't work for 4-6 months. Massage is actually harder on my shoulders than working out!

There are some things I need to get done, on house, business, before I am down an arm.

I will definately negotiate for cash deal...thanks for stopping by.

That is one tough ride for the future
Hope things work out

**Mac** · 07-27-2011, 08:12 AM

Hey stranger. Seems like you dropped off the forums.

Sorry to hear about your shoulder problems and how it will affect your self-employment. I can relate to that.

You'll will overcome it, somehow.

BTW, I too don't have health insurance. Never needed it, until just this past month. A $8000 emergency room visits because of a kidney stone [thought i was dying]. Found out that at my income level, which because of the bad economy, enabled me to qualify for FREE health care benefits for self-employed and it paid for the hospital bill, in full.

**axioma** · 08-07-2011, 08:33 PM

right on...however, did that pertain just to the fact that it was emergency, would it cover elective. funny, saying elective because I HAVE to have it done...I guess I could try to snatch 350 and have everyone ready to rush me and my detached arm to the emergency room, lol.

I am actually trying to see what I can do to "rehab", basically maintain some mobility. I have been doing rotator exercises and working out with 75% of my normal weights. Immediate ice. I have gone from needing a lortab and ibuprofin to just ice over the past three weeks. I am going to alter my massage techniques, however massage is the scariest thing I do related to the shoulder, just one little combination of elevation and rotation and POW...I do the Ric Flair WHOOOOOOOOO!

I have been keeping up with you guys, just don't post. I don't know what I have to offer, feeling like old meat.

I'll start posting some workouts...just trying to lean out and carry a little less bodyweight.

**freebirdmac** · 08-07-2011, 09:32 PM

Damn, sorry to hear about the shoulder. Definitely shop a good surgeon and look for help on the bills. Glad you're lurking about!

**Amazon Doll** · 08-07-2011, 10:16 PM

Damn, this sucks about your shoulder

**bigjimjr50** · 09-24-2011, 05:12 PM

Hey Axioma, Thanks for the kind words, I told all my friends in SLC, I just didn't want to lose because of politics, and look what happened.. James Robertson

**mrky03** · 09-24-2011, 06:56 PM

Wow Ax, just caught up with your thread. Sorry to hear about all this, I hope all goes well for you.

**mkris7** · 10-12-2011, 02:38 AM

Sorry to hear about your shoulder. My prayer is for quick rehab or recovery for you.

**HeavyDutyGuy** · 10-12-2011, 12:18 PM

Ax, I hear ya. I had been feeling like that. But last week or so, I thought, screw aging, forget about the judges and politics and just do it like I started. Realized there's nothing wrong with that!

**axioma** · 01-31-2012, 01:33 PM

Just stopped by. Had a real treat, watched the Robby interview thread. I grew up in Tallahassee, so Robby was always the local celebrity.

Still training around the shoulder, doing circuits for the most part, focusing on range of motion and blood flow. Keeping journal to post on blog with recipes, etc.

Holding 220 at 12% bf. Eating good, clean, healthy food.

Supps: evaluating different creatine forms, C, B complex, ZMA, and doing a IFG precurser with bovine colostrum.

Glad to catch up on some journals and admire the dedication of all you guys and gals who stay with the forum and support one another.

Personal: I have begun the certification courses for Active Release Therapy. My first training is in Chicago in March. It is intensive and comprehensive to say the least. Our daughter is graduating college in May, interviewing for med schools now. Xiomara has been taking it easy, not training much but still looks incredible. I think she may venture into women's physique...we'll see. I have opened a new office, revamping the e-store (should relaunch in few weeks) and spending lots of time working on recipes to post on blog. Not necessarily precontest bodybuilding fare, but wholesome good food that is easy to prepare. Don't EVEN ask for a photo post...not happening,lol. I am smooth and hairy...as a gorilla should be this time of year! I'll stop by soon. Even though my shoulder has shot down the possibility of competing in the near future, I still hit the iron...never giving in but adapting and evolving. Take care, Matt.

**Baldiewonkanobi** · 02-01-2012, 08:11 AM

Class act!!!

**Marijan Lipsinic** · 02-01-2012, 04:54 PM

Hi Matt,
Great to see you post on your thread. We miss you bro.

**axioma** · 02-03-2012, 02:03 PM

Hey yourself,lol! Pm'd ya.

**Hammerfit** · 02-04-2012, 10:03 AM

Glad to see ya back bro! Been keeping up with ya. Sounds like the delts working itself out?

**axioma** · 02-06-2012, 10:35 AM

Great hearing from you. Delt is allowing me to function within parameters...not bodybuilding workouts! I'm living vicariously through you guys right now...and that's ok,lol.

**axioma** · 03-15-2012, 08:27 PM

Ok, just a quick post to catch up. I'm in Chicago taking my first a.r.t. Course. Very challenging to say the least. Please...don't post all the cool s**t I should check out while here, because you are just rubbing my nose in it because I am studying...yea...Nuff said. Anyway...I am wrapping up my second week of my new workout routine (bodybuilding, thanks...not a circuit or p90) and I feel great. Beat with a hammer great, nonetheless the shoulder is cooperating. I'll post it in few days. It is a Dante/Rambod/Helton hybrid,lol.

**axioma** · 03-20-2012, 09:32 AM

I'm A.R.T. certified!!! I feel numb, not unlike after competing, only difference is binging doesnt help,lol. I got back Sunday, hoping to have a few days to ease back into my routine:
Xiomara has a crew of Ukranian electricians rewiring the house.
Xiomara has a crew of Mexican tile guys on standby, waiting for me to rip out the ttub, toilet and vanity in bathroom so they can get started. The house sounds like the freakin U.N.
I did 5 massages yesterday, went home and started demo. Idiot Matt wasn't wearing his safety glasses and a piece of tile hit me in the eye...God it hurt, still tearing up today, bloodshot, swollen...

Stop the insanity! Stop the Bulgarian/Honduran slave driver!

**Hammerfit** · 03-20-2012, 09:36 AM

Originally Posted by axioma

i'm a.r.t. Certified!!! I feel numb, not unlike after competing, only difference is binging doesnt help,lol. I got back sunday, hoping to have a few days to ease back into my routine:
Xiomara has a crew of ukranian electricians rewiring the house.
Xiomara has a crew of mexican tile guys on standby, waiting for me to rip out the ttub, toilet and vanity in bathroom so they can get started. The house sounds like the freakin u.n.
I did 5 massages yesterday, went home and started demo. Idiot matt wasn't wearing his safety glasses and a piece of tile hit me in the eye...god it hurt, still tearing up today, bloodshot, swollen...

Stop the insanity! Stop the bulgarian/honduran slave driver!

lmbo

**Marijan Lipsinic** · 03-20-2012, 11:14 PM

Congrats on your certification Matt !
Hope you feel better.

**mastersfreak63** · 03-21-2012, 05:07 PM

Awesome looking thread. IN!!!

**axioma** · 04-16-2012, 08:21 AM

Thanks for posting, freak! If you are in, then I guess I should be too,lol.

**Mac** · 04-16-2012, 08:46 AM

Hey stranger. Hope all is well.

**axioma** · 05-17-2012, 08:56 AM

All is well. I will update soon. Notice some new members...great to see renewed interest. I look forward to contributing on a regular basis soon.

**axioma** · 06-06-2012, 08:40 AM

Still here! Trying to maintain 2x week workouts while rehabbing and work. Staying around 218. Headed to beach for much needed break, recharge batteries. When I return I will begin 90 day lean growth phase to test limits.

**axioma** · 06-07-2012, 09:51 PM

Staying in wild dunes on isle of palms. Amazing.

**Hammerfit** · 06-08-2012, 12:24 PM

Originally Posted by axioma

Staying in wild dunes on isle of palms. Amazing.

Gald to see ya back again. I love the SC coast. Grew up just south of there in St Simons Island, GA

**AnglicanBeachParty** · 06-09-2012, 08:08 AM

Originally Posted by Hammerfit

Gald to see ya back again. I love the SC coast. Grew up just south of there in St Simons Island, GA

Ditto - Good to see you back!

**axioma** · 06-20-2012, 07:42 PM

In to my second week of 5x workouts per week. I'm feeling abused.
Mon: Legs
Tue: Calves, Chest
Wed.: Off
Thur: Abs, Back
Friday: Calves, Shoulders
Sat: Abs, Arms

Trying to address areas that Baldie once mentioned as needing attention: Traps, Calves.

Lesson learned in 7 workouts:
Pace myself...chomping at the bit. Now paying for it with some lower back issues. Taking me 10-15 steps to adjust enough not to walk like I'm pinching a loaf. Positive: Seem to be dealing with it better than previously, so hopefully it will only affect workouts for next two weeks.

218.5 @ (guessing) 12%.

Friend of mine,Bill Hall entered his first show on Saturday, The Supernatural in Spartanburg, SC. He is 43, the most natural guy I know, can't even take a fat burner for health concerns. He took home two seconds in Novice and Masters. Great show, great competitors and great expediters. He recognized the areas he needed to improve while suffering a loss in Novice. Masters was judged fairly, but he was robbed in Novice. My congratulations.

**axioma** · 06-21-2012, 08:58 AM

Got through back. Couldn't put much into rows so I did 9 sets of pullups, dumbbell rows and seated cable.

**Hammerfit** · 06-21-2012, 09:37 AM

Originally Posted by axioma

Got through back. Couldn't put much into rows so I did 9 sets of pullups, dumbbell rows and seated cable.

Glad to see you back at it. How's the shoulder?

**KevinCouch** · 06-21-2012, 01:23 PM

Glad to see you're back at training regularly again. I've taken a short hiatus from training this week and next week at beach with family.

**axioma** · 06-23-2012, 10:06 AM

Shoulder is doing well. Not overloading it, nothing Heavy Duty. Just keeping sets around 8-10 on presses and not going to failure. I know it's there.

**axioma** · 06-23-2012, 10:07 AM

Originally Posted by KevinCouch

Glad to see you're back at training regularly again. I've taken a short hiatus from training this week and next week at beach with family.

You are thee reason I have no plans to compete...Just couldn't approach your level. Keep it up...freaking incredible.

**axioma** · 06-23-2012, 10:09 AM

Really enjoying having a garden. We have enough lettuce, peppers, cucumbers, tomatoes and squash to eat every day! I finish second week of training today!