On hand were baseball Hall of Famer Johnny Bench, John Balik from Iron Man magazine, Muscle Beach Director Joe Wheatley, IFBB Pro Jerome “Hollywood” Ferguson, co-founder of Muscle Beach Relna Brewer, fitness model Brenda Kelly, Eric the Trainer and many more.

http://blip.tv/file/3264486

Day 6

I got up early and had my supplements and green tea, showered and shaved and had a breakfast in my room of oats and protein with a black coffee. I then set off walking to Gold’s. I walk along the beach front then head inland a couple of blocks and I am there. I have been here a couple of times before so I enjoy the walk, taking in all the sites down there on the beach.

Gold’s

Gold’s is, as you would expect, huge with every piece of kit you could ever imagine. I spent a little time looking around at what’s out there now for kit and watching people, then I got down to some training.

Shoulders and Arms

I did a similar workout to what I had done with Robby a few days before, but this time I worked my shoulders all at once then moved on to my arms. I did Standing Press, Lat Raise, Bent over Lat Raise for 3 rounds adding weight on each round for 10-12- 8-reps. Yep- all this kit around me and I used a barbell and two dumbbells. For arms I combined Curls with Close Grip Bench Press for 2 rounds, 10 reps each.

Next up, I combined Pushdowns and Cable Curls for 2 rounds. I finished arms with Rope Extensions. I wrapped up the workout with some ab work.

After a great workout there needs to be good food, Robby’s base is built on this. There are some awesome bodybuilders out here and they are not the pro’s I am talking about. The Joe average out here is way above the Joe average at home. I am convinced it’s the working environment and the foods that are available.

So I headed to The Firehouse again, my choice for breakfast number two was egg whites and multigrain pancakes with blueberries. Wow they eat a lot out here and it was huge. I took my time with it, all the while doing the who’s who of bodybuilding heading in the door.

Later Robby and Arden picked me up and we headed to Santa Monica for some more filming. This was a great experience as Robby pointed out where he used to live and train and eat in the old days. The interview was fantastic; we talked about all aspects of our sport for at least 45 minutes putting tons of information in there for the viewer. After lunch we parted ways and I came down to the beach to write and read, oooh what a life, work, work, work- ha-ha.

Day 6 – Homeward Bound

The last day of a fantastic week. I headed over to the Marina Café below the gym in the morning and had my last Lou’s Special. Whilst waiting for that to be made I rang home and disrupted the kids watching a movie, glad to see they were missing me. I spoke to Molly and it was all the one word answers “yep, erm, yer, umm”.

“Have you missed your Dad babe?”  “Yep.”

“Ok then, put your Mum on.”

After breakfast I read a little of a book that I can highly recommend, a book that Robby gave me called Beyond The Game. It’s the collective sports writing of Gary Smith. I will cover it further in my News and Views next month, a great book. I headed down to the beach front at lunchtime and walked the beach side path towards The Firehouse for my last lunch. With this being a Sunday the front was packed out with people.

Once at The Firehouse there were many more characters of the bodybuilding kind this time. I ordered Buffalo- again (ok I like it), egg whites and steamed vegetables, along with this I had wholegrain toast and a coffee. From my seat I could people watch all around me. Two guys were sat over to my left and slightly behind me. They were definitely bodybuilders, one was muscular and the other was on the smooth side.

When they stood up they both puffed up to twice their size and walked to the pay desk with their arms stuck out- I am sure they wanted me to look at them so I did what I normally do which was act unimpressed, I looked everywhere but at them. I could see them but they wouldn’t have known. They were doing full body poses just paying the bill. I cannot do with guys like this, they give bodybuilding a bad name. Come on, there is a place for posing and it’s not at a pay desk!

After lunch, I headed back to my hotel and packed for home. Robby and Arden picked me up at 3pm to take me to the airport. Get this, Arden gave me a couple of scarves for Louise that she makes and designs. Many celebs out here own her work, so I was honored. Robby gave me some ‘Built’ baseball caps and had made me a meal for later- Salmon and potatoes, cooked a special way that was delicious. We hugged and said our goodbye’s. Waving them off I thought to myself “Wow, Robby Robinson – The Black Prince, one of the greatest bodybuilders to ever live, made my lunch!

Looking over the week, I can say with all certainty that I have had one of the times of my life. If I was never to come back here, I would remember this week with fondness forever. I have learnt a lot- I have been motivated, empowered and inspired beyond words. It is like I have gone full circle.

This very morning before departing for home I sat in the Marina Café and listened to the seagulls. It took me back to my youth growing up in Bridlington, a far cry from LA I know but don’t seagulls sound the same all over the world? The days when I was a kid, I would spend down at the water front. On one such day I went searching for a Muscle Mag in the local newsagents. I found one and opened it up to see a page with the heading ‘Welcome to my World’ with a picture of this awesome black bodybuilder- his name was Robby Robinson.

Thank you Robby and Arden, for letting me in to your world.

Ian Duckett- www.bodyindesign.co.uk

www.RobbyRobinson.net

Ian Duckett is the UK’s most formidable and sort after personal trainer and was training clients before Personal Training was in Vogue. He is a natural for life athlete and has been at the forefront of natural bodybuilding for 20 years, winning such titles as ‘Mr Natural Britain’ twice and the European title. He has also placed 4th in the World Championships on two occasions and recently won the World title, also the Pro Am – He is a reputed Powerlifter, winning 6 titles and placing 2nd in the British finals.

His passion for his work is immeasurable, this shows in the client base he has. He has been helping clients achieve the goals that they only dreamed of and has been tirelessly doing this for more than 20 years. Title winners and corporate professionals, as well as clients wanting to be the best they can be, fill Ian’s day. Ian has trained with the best and studies his standard of work constantly. ‘You should never stop learning’ is one of Ian’s mottos.

He often travels to the USA to improve and refine his art. Working recently with the great Robby Robinson–this again moved Ian forward. He is also a great believer in the power of the mind, knowing that this area is the key to unlocking potential from a client. He knows what buttons to press and how to bring out the best in the client. Ian is and has over the years been a leader in training principles and nutrition ideas, he is copied many times but never duplicated.

He is a sort after Guest Poser and seminar speaker, conducting seminars in gyms up and down the country and also in supplement outlets. Ian owned and ran one of the most successful gyms in the UK. Future Bodies Gym was a 10,000 sq ft home to many champions and successful clients alike. Future Bodies was sold in 2002, since then Ian has concentrated on his BodyInDesign Personal Training business, phone consultations business and maintaining his website and product sales. Ian is very goal orientated and has achieved each of the goals he set out to do, such as – Writing 4 books – Producing training DVD’s – Producing a subscription only magazine – A supplement company – Designing and producing training t-shirts – Producing motivational art work.

It is safe to say that Ian gets the most out of each day and he has that rare combination these days of knowledge and experience. Professional Background . Director of bodyindesign Ltd . Personal Trainer . Author . Illustrator . Contributing writer to other websites and magazines Significant Accomplishments . 1989 – Mr Natural Britain . 1995 – Mr Natural Britain . 1999 – Mr Natural Europe . 2005 – 2nd in the Natural Pro Am . 2005 – 4th in the Natural World Championships . 2006 – 2nd in the BAWLA Powerlifting British Championships. 2007 Pro Am winner–Guest Star at the NPA British–2007 World Championships winner. . Winner of more than 25 other regional bodybuilding titles Ian has had more Area and British title winners as clients than anybody else and has been doing this for at least 20 years.

Ian’s area of experience is in the training of figure girls, he has had winners and top placings in this class, both in British and International competitions, for many years. Ian has been a featured writer in Hardgainer magazine and has been featured in many books and publications over the years. Ian has published four books that were sold in major book stores and supplement companies in the UK. They still sell now on the internet through his website to all corners of the globe.

Ian has also produced two training video DVD’s that have achieved the same results as the books. TV Appearances . Calendar . Sky TV . Look North . Radio Leeds . BBC tv inside eye. Featured Articles . Hardgainer magazine . Featured model in Stuart McRobert’s ‘Build muscle, lose fat’ book in 2006 . Health and Strength magazine . Musclemag International- feature writer for 4 years . Bodypower . Bodybuilding Monthly . The Beef magazine . Yorkshire Post . Cyberpump.com . MrUniverse.com . Allsports . Maximuscle . Numerous other health and fitness publications over the last 20-25 years. Individual Athletes . Jenny Garside – 4 time Britain winner and 2nd in the World Championship ladies figure class 2005–Winner BNBF British 2007 –NPA British 2007 –Worlds 2007. . Claire Cotter – British Finals winner and 3rd in the World Championships 2006–2nd–NPA British 2007. . Karen Wriggles – Mike Williams Classic winner . Michelle Clift – UK winner and 3rd twice at the British Finals. . Debbie Scholefield – Yorkshire winner–3rd NPA British 2007. . Julie Ainsworth – Multi title winner . Lynn Beman – Title winner . Annie Davis – Yorkshire winner and British finalist . Frances Walton – Title winner . Andrew Barber – British Under 21 winner . Rob Gorry – Title winner . Ian Cooper – Multi title winner . Helen Everson – Title winner . Gayle Bellamy – British Under 52kg winner . Local TV stars . Phil Guy – Multi title winner .

And more than 60 other title winners and finalists over the last 20 years. Corporate Clients . Walkers Transport . Nick Marr . Dave Symon. Nutrition Companies who have supported Ian . Allsports International . Maximuscle . Udo’s Oil . Natural Nutrition Products . Organic Foods Currently Ian is supported by ‘AST Sports Science’ supplements, his clients are also. . Many more camps at Bodyindesign. . New vidoes on youtube. . 2-New books in 2009 .

Continue to help clients achieve their goals Ian has created a name for himself in the world of figure, bodybuilding and natural health. His passion and innovation have kept him at the top for years. He is truly a trainers’ trainer – in fact his nickname is The Guru. Need we say more? Areas for more info: Short and sharp book—True Grit book—bodyindesign web site—look for articles on this site and others featuring Ian.

Who I’d like to meet:
I have met most of my hero’s Robby– Arnold–Stallone–Labrada. I never got to meet the now passed away Arthur Jones. He was an awesome man that changed the industry I am in today.

Be sure to visit Ian’s website, www.bodyindesign.co.uk.

Day 4 – off day from training

After breakfast, a little walk and phoning home I was picked up by Robby and Arden. They took me to an organic market in Santa Monica where they buy their food supplies. This was paradise again for me- row after row of fresh from the farm foods as Robby put it.

Robby went off shopping and Arden and I went off in another direction. This gave me the chance to have a nice chat with her about how much I think Robby is grounded with her. Behind every great man there is a great woman and she is no exception. You can see the love and respect these two people have for each other. He is constantly the gentleman with her. So you guys out there tell your girl that you love em and appreciate all that they do for you. You never realise what you have- till it’s gone.

After the market Robby and Arden took me to a store where Robby buys the herbs that he uses in this master plan. He picked them out for me and Arden and I weighed them. Herbs, Robby explains, are something that have been used for many hundreds of years and are something he has always used himself.

We bagged up about seven and he said he would take them home and ground them up for me then drop them off later and show me how to structure their use. I was looking forward to this because in only 3 days I could see a difference in my physique. Some of this is due to rest, as I don’t normally stop, but most definitely some of this is also due to the advanced balance of supplements and training, with good food also of course.

I came out here in good shape, I never lose my abs, but I lacked a little muscle fullness and was not as vascular as normal. But now I looked full and hard. My skin also looked better from the use of oils Robby had given me to try out. This is something I had been concerned about as I am now 42 and my skin is not as tight as it was when I was younger.

Robby gave me the oils he uses. Yes, he is black- and genetically he would not age as much as a white guy – having said that he is 62 and looks under 40. There is only so much that is genetic. I thought it was just genetic but having spoken at length about this I found that- no- he works at it- he looks after himself. He uses oils for his face when shaving and oils his body many times a day, also the right supplements are used for anti ageing.

Sure enough later, around noon, Robby came by with the packs of herbs and told me the best times to use them for the best effects. He also said he had a surprise for me and had ordered a cab to take us there. We headed to downtown LA to Wiltshire BLVD for a Pilates session. Robby had booked me in with a young lady he uses often for body alignment, Miki Muller. For the next 45 minutes Miki put me through a series of movements to work deep into the core of my body and lengthen my spine. All the while Robby laughed at me-“Work that man, make him have it Miki.” She had me in positions I didn’t know I could do and I like to think I fared well. The positions plus the breathing exercises made me feel relaxed and deep down worked all at the same time. She was very good and very professional and knew the body inside out- Robby told me later that she is the best there is and anybody who is anybody goes to her, she’s the best in the USA.

Visit with Dean

Now here was a whole new world of experience for me. Dean was featured in Robby’s Built DVD and everything that was done here today was filmed for the Master Plan DVD featuring all that Robby, Arden and I did over this week. I say that because the session I had here was so advanced that I would have to write a book, to even touch on the work here. So I will cover in brief and you can see the footage yourself.

Dean is what you call a body mechanics master, his knowledge is off the charts. Basically he worked on the fascia tissue of the body and released it, so perfect body mechanics could be used and therefore allowing more efficient movement, range of motion and even distribution of load. Robby was first on the table and I watched as he got extreme ranges of motion from him all the while explaining what he was doing and why. Dean is a huge guy and Robby was putty in his hands.

After Robby it was my turn, I was filled with a bit of apprehension. Dean stood and looked at me- I wondered what he was looking at and looked behind me. This got a laugh from everyone. Basically he was checking me out, lining me up in his mind. When I stood I had one hip further forward than the other. Heavy dead lifts had twisted me so my right side was forward and up from the hip region. When I laid on the table, I was worked and manipulated from many angles that you just have to see to believe the range of motion that he got in my shoulders- it freaked me out. A fantastic experience worth the DVD price alone as you will learn so much about the human body and it’s workings.

Later on that day I decided I would have a walk to The Firehouse for a meal. The mechanics work made me feel so good, my body was like a fine tuned machine and as fluid as water itself. I could not believe how good I felt, walking along the beach front. This is just an awesome vacation and learning experience all in one.

Before heading in for a meal I called into Gold’s. I as having a look around the shop there for some trackies and heard a voice “Hey are you Ian Duckett?” Yes it’s true, I kid you not. All the bloody way out here and I bump into two great English lads who’s names escape me (so guys I know you read my blogs so please email me so I can keep in contact).

We had a chat and they said they had seen me win the Pro Am last year and we took photos- this I was so humbled by as there we are with the world’s best bodybuilders around us and they want to talk to me and take photos. Thank you guys, you made my day even more special. Later when I sat in the Firehouse I wished I had asked them to join me. Hope you enjoyed your stay guys and your trip to the Olympia.

Ian Duckett- www.bodyindesign.co.uk

www.RobbyRobinson.net

Ian Duckett is the UK’s most formidable and sort after personal trainer and was training clients before Personal Training was in Vogue. He is a natural for life athlete and has been at the forefront of natural bodybuilding for 20 years, winning such titles as ‘Mr Natural Britain’ twice and the European title. He has also placed 4th in the World Championships on two occasions and recently won the World title, also the Pro Am – He is a reputed Powerlifter, winning 6 titles and placing 2nd in the British finals.

His passion for his work is immeasurable, this shows in the client base he has. He has been helping clients achieve the goals that they only dreamed of and has been tirelessly doing this for more than 20 years. Title winners and corporate professionals, as well as clients wanting to be the best they can be, fill Ian’s day. Ian has trained with the best and studies his standard of work constantly. ‘You should never stop learning’ is one of Ian’s mottos.

He often travels to the USA to improve and refine his art. Working recently with the great Robby Robinson–this again moved Ian forward. He is also a great believer in the power of the mind, knowing that this area is the key to unlocking potential from a client. He knows what buttons to press and how to bring out the best in the client. Ian is and has over the years been a leader in training principles and nutrition ideas, he is copied many times but never duplicated.

He is a sort after Guest Poser and seminar speaker, conducting seminars in gyms up and down the country and also in supplement outlets. Ian owned and ran one of the most successful gyms in the UK. Future Bodies Gym was a 10,000 sq ft home to many champions and successful clients alike. Future Bodies was sold in 2002, since then Ian has concentrated on his BodyInDesign Personal Training business, phone consultations business and maintaining his website and product sales. Ian is very goal orientated and has achieved each of the goals he set out to do, such as – Writing 4 books – Producing training DVD’s – Producing a subscription only magazine – A supplement company – Designing and producing training t-shirts – Producing motivational art work.

It is safe to say that Ian gets the most out of each day and he has that rare combination these days of knowledge and experience. Professional Background . Director of bodyindesign Ltd . Personal Trainer . Author . Illustrator . Contributing writer to other websites and magazines Significant Accomplishments . 1989 – Mr Natural Britain . 1995 – Mr Natural Britain . 1999 – Mr Natural Europe . 2005 – 2nd in the Natural Pro Am . 2005 – 4th in the Natural World Championships . 2006 – 2nd in the BAWLA Powerlifting British Championships. 2007 Pro Am winner–Guest Star at the NPA British–2007 World Championships winner. . Winner of more than 25 other regional bodybuilding titles Ian has had more Area and British title winners as clients than anybody else and has been doing this for at least 20 years.

Ian’s area of experience is in the training of figure girls, he has had winners and top placings in this class, both in British and International competitions, for many years. Ian has been a featured writer in Hardgainer magazine and has been featured in many books and publications over the years. Ian has published four books that were sold in major book stores and supplement companies in the UK. They still sell now on the internet through his website to all corners of the globe.

Ian has also produced two training video DVD’s that have achieved the same results as the books. TV Appearances . Calendar . Sky TV . Look North . Radio Leeds . BBC tv inside eye. Featured Articles . Hardgainer magazine . Featured model in Stuart McRobert’s ‘Build muscle, lose fat’ book in 2006 . Health and Strength magazine . Musclemag International- feature writer for 4 years . Bodypower . Bodybuilding Monthly . The Beef magazine . Yorkshire Post . Cyberpump.com . MrUniverse.com . Allsports . Maximuscle . Numerous other health and fitness publications over the last 20-25 years. Individual Athletes . Jenny Garside – 4 time Britain winner and 2nd in the World Championship ladies figure class 2005–Winner BNBF British 2007 –NPA British 2007 –Worlds 2007. . Claire Cotter – British Finals winner and 3rd in the World Championships 2006–2nd–NPA British 2007. . Karen Wriggles – Mike Williams Classic winner . Michelle Clift – UK winner and 3rd twice at the British Finals. . Debbie Scholefield – Yorkshire winner–3rd NPA British 2007. . Julie Ainsworth – Multi title winner . Lynn Beman – Title winner . Annie Davis – Yorkshire winner and British finalist . Frances Walton – Title winner . Andrew Barber – British Under 21 winner . Rob Gorry – Title winner . Ian Cooper – Multi title winner . Helen Everson – Title winner . Gayle Bellamy – British Under 52kg winner . Local TV stars . Phil Guy – Multi title winner .

And more than 60 other title winners and finalists over the last 20 years. Corporate Clients . Walkers Transport . Nick Marr . Dave Symon. Nutrition Companies who have supported Ian . Allsports International . Maximuscle . Udo’s Oil . Natural Nutrition Products . Organic Foods Currently Ian is supported by ‘AST Sports Science’ supplements, his clients are also. . Many more camps at Bodyindesign. . New vidoes on youtube. . 2-New books in 2009 .

Continue to help clients achieve their goals Ian has created a name for himself in the world of figure, bodybuilding and natural health. His passion and innovation have kept him at the top for years. He is truly a trainers’ trainer – in fact his nickname is The Guru. Need we say more? Areas for more info: Short and sharp book—True Grit book—bodyindesign web site—look for articles on this site and others featuring Ian.

Who I’d like to meet:
I have met most of my hero’s Robby– Arnold–Stallone–Labrada. I never got to meet the now passed away Arthur Jones. He was an awesome man that changed the industry I am in today.

Be sure to visit Ian’s website, www.bodyindesign.co.uk.

Day 3 – Workout 2

I awake with a start on the day. Right away I took my morning supplements that Robby had structured out for me for the days ahead, I washed these down with cold, clean water. After morning rituals I headed out for breakfast at the Marina Fitness café. I had the usual- oats, egg whites and blueberries with a black coffee and more supplements.

I will write more about supplements at another time when I know more about their role in how Robby has structured them. After that awesome breakfast I was ready for anything. I was scheduled to meet Robby and Arden at 9am for Chest and Back work after which they planned to take me to the Santa Monica Stairs, all 198 of them going all the way up and of course down. With the time I had between breakfast and the workout I headed to the beach to do a little more writing.

The Workout

We hooked up outside the gym and once again did a little filming before heading inside for the workout. Chest and Back was the order of the day. Here is what we did:

To start with we did an exercise that Robby has done for years for opening out the lats, hard to explain, but it is a little like a vacuum pose. I found this exercise a lot harder on the muscles than it looked. But thought it would be fantastic for those clients that struggle with a lat spread and the front relaxed pose, as it really helped you open up. After a little band work for posture.

We then move to Low Pulley Rows using a handle that Robby explained was used by all the greats in the sport – Arnold, Edd Corney, Zane, the original Gold’s gang- and it was made by Joe Gold himself. It made the Low Rows even more special, I tell you, knowing the history behind the bar. We did these much different to what I had done in the past and I felt them really deep in the whole of my lat. We did one set of 12-15 reps. Again guys all this will be available on the DVD.

We then moved to Dead lifts in the rack. Again style was the main focus and correct body mechanics at all times, we did a set each of ten reps. Chest was up next- Robby expressed that he was a great fan of Vince Gironda and had always wanted to train with him but never got the chance. Robby also said he has used some of Vince’s techniques for many years.

Hence we moved on to a Flat Bench Neck Press-like a bench press but the bar travels more towards the upper peck neck area. This will place the stress a little more on the upper pec area. We did a set each with a weight that allowed 12 reps.

Next up we did a Dumbell Flat Bench Press for 12 reps, very strict movement with a hard contraction and a deep stretch. Over the years I have read in articles ‘squeeze the contraction, feel the movement, concentrate’– and I have done that, but not on this level. I had been well and truly schooled.

We then headed back through the gym to the Low Pulley Row, with the priceless handle in tow. In fact it went everywhere with us, it was like another training partner. We add weight and Robby again went through a picture perfect set and then made sure I got a perfect set also by constantly- encouraging and correcting- “Come on Ian, I’m going to get my reps, make me work now, come on”- in that deep unmistakable voice. I got 10 reps here.

Then it was back to Dead Lifts, with again a little more on the bar. We followed this up with Neck Press again, a little more weight, a little more feel and even better reps- 10 reps each. Dumbell Press next –yes you are getting the sequence, 10 reps again.

After this we did two sets of Pullover and Press- 85lbs for Set One and 75lbs for Set Two with an even deeper stretch. This was a great movement that I felt in the lats and chest. This was the hardest movement for me as Robby demanded a deep, deep stretch hence the lighter weight on the second set. We finished up the workout with a set of Chins.

All the time that I had spent with Robby and Arden I had never seen any of Robby’s physique, he constantly wore a Built T shirt, sometimes two- and a vest. With a little prompting from myself and Arden he took his tops off in the studio room. As you can see from the shots, he looks fantastic- this is Robby’s everyday look, a physique that is built with good clean foods and clean living and training. Drugs in the sport were responsible for a very small part of his bodybuilding efforts, he built his size the natural way and that’s why today at 62, yes he is 62 in these photos, he looks like he does.

After a post workout drink in the Jeep, we headed for the Santa Monica steps. These famous steps were situated in the Santa Monica Valley. I was surprised to see a hord of people on them- some even held light dumbbells and pumped away with their arms as they went up and down them. We parked at the top and headed all the way down the 198 steps, then we began the climb.

They were very steep and it really got stuck into the hips, glutes and calves. Robby and myself did a round then Arden, then it was Robby and I again followed by Arden. This was followed by an ice cold regulator drink with added Glutamine by Robby and Arden. Everything was taken care of. This was something they did to a fault- they looked after me like you wouldn’t believe. They were very thoughtful and caring- the passion for this- just jumps out at you.

Drinking the ice cold post workout drink and looking out over the valley, was just heaven and it was a beautiful day. After that fantastic workout and stair climb it was time for another meal. Robby and Arden knew of just the spot. They took me to a beautiful little restaurant that is frequented by Hollywood stars and sports celebs whereupon we ordered and tucked into a ‘Trainer’s Special’ as the menu said- egg whites, rice, fruit and whole-wheat pancakes.

In between eating, we filmed a little more and covered subjects like- business- and how I train the bodyindesign girls, also how incredibly strong they are. Robby also talked about competing and how people should not do long duration CV- this I smiled at, as I have been banging on about not doing CV for a long time now.

After this delicious meal we headed to their home, as Arden has some things there for me. My eyes lit up upon seeing a draft copy (that nobody else has yet seen outside of the family) of Robby’s biography book The Black Prince. This I was very humbled by. I was also given a watermelon and some low salt, low yeast bread bought from the farmer’s market that they visit regularly.

They then dropped me off back at my hotel. After a shower I headed out to my favorite spot for writing. Sat in the sun, I reflected on the day as I wrote the piece you have just read. I watched the sun go down on an awesome day and was excited at what was in-store tomorrow.

Ian Duckett- www.bodyindesign.co.uk

www.RobbyRobinson.net

Ian Duckett is the UK’s most formidable and sort after personal trainer and was training clients before Personal Training was in Vogue. He is a natural for life athlete and has been at the forefront of natural bodybuilding for 20 years, winning such titles as ‘Mr Natural Britain’ twice and the European title. He has also placed 4th in the World Championships on two occasions and recently won the World title, also the Pro Am – He is a reputed Powerlifter, winning 6 titles and placing 2nd in the British finals.

His passion for his work is immeasurable, this shows in the client base he has. He has been helping clients achieve the goals that they only dreamed of and has been tirelessly doing this for more than 20 years. Title winners and corporate professionals, as well as clients wanting to be the best they can be, fill Ian’s day. Ian has trained with the best and studies his standard of work constantly. ‘You should never stop learning’ is one of Ian’s mottos.

He often travels to the USA to improve and refine his art. Working recently with the great Robby Robinson–this again moved Ian forward. He is also a great believer in the power of the mind, knowing that this area is the key to unlocking potential from a client. He knows what buttons to press and how to bring out the best in the client. Ian is and has over the years been a leader in training principles and nutrition ideas, he is copied many times but never duplicated.

He is a sort after Guest Poser and seminar speaker, conducting seminars in gyms up and down the country and also in supplement outlets. Ian owned and ran one of the most successful gyms in the UK. Future Bodies Gym was a 10,000 sq ft home to many champions and successful clients alike. Future Bodies was sold in 2002, since then Ian has concentrated on his BodyInDesign Personal Training business, phone consultations business and maintaining his website and product sales. Ian is very goal orientated and has achieved each of the goals he set out to do, such as – Writing 4 books – Producing training DVD’s – Producing a subscription only magazine – A supplement company – Designing and producing training t-shirts – Producing motivational art work.

It is safe to say that Ian gets the most out of each day and he has that rare combination these days of knowledge and experience. Professional Background . Director of bodyindesign Ltd . Personal Trainer . Author . Illustrator . Contributing writer to other websites and magazines Significant Accomplishments . 1989 – Mr Natural Britain . 1995 – Mr Natural Britain . 1999 – Mr Natural Europe . 2005 – 2nd in the Natural Pro Am . 2005 – 4th in the Natural World Championships . 2006 – 2nd in the BAWLA Powerlifting British Championships. 2007 Pro Am winner–Guest Star at the NPA British–2007 World Championships winner. . Winner of more than 25 other regional bodybuilding titles Ian has had more Area and British title winners as clients than anybody else and has been doing this for at least 20 years.

Ian’s area of experience is in the training of figure girls, he has had winners and top placings in this class, both in British and International competitions, for many years. Ian has been a featured writer in Hardgainer magazine and has been featured in many books and publications over the years. Ian has published four books that were sold in major book stores and supplement companies in the UK. They still sell now on the internet through his website to all corners of the globe.

Ian has also produced two training video DVD’s that have achieved the same results as the books. TV Appearances . Calendar . Sky TV . Look North . Radio Leeds . BBC tv inside eye. Featured Articles . Hardgainer magazine . Featured model in Stuart McRobert’s ‘Build muscle, lose fat’ book in 2006 . Health and Strength magazine . Musclemag International- feature writer for 4 years . Bodypower . Bodybuilding Monthly . The Beef magazine . Yorkshire Post . Cyberpump.com . MrUniverse.com . Allsports . Maximuscle . Numerous other health and fitness publications over the last 20-25 years. Individual Athletes . Jenny Garside – 4 time Britain winner and 2nd in the World Championship ladies figure class 2005–Winner BNBF British 2007 –NPA British 2007 –Worlds 2007. . Claire Cotter – British Finals winner and 3rd in the World Championships 2006–2nd–NPA British 2007. . Karen Wriggles – Mike Williams Classic winner . Michelle Clift – UK winner and 3rd twice at the British Finals. . Debbie Scholefield – Yorkshire winner–3rd NPA British 2007. . Julie Ainsworth – Multi title winner . Lynn Beman – Title winner . Annie Davis – Yorkshire winner and British finalist . Frances Walton – Title winner . Andrew Barber – British Under 21 winner . Rob Gorry – Title winner . Ian Cooper – Multi title winner . Helen Everson – Title winner . Gayle Bellamy – British Under 52kg winner . Local TV stars . Phil Guy – Multi title winner .

And more than 60 other title winners and finalists over the last 20 years. Corporate Clients . Walkers Transport . Nick Marr . Dave Symon. Nutrition Companies who have supported Ian . Allsports International . Maximuscle . Udo’s Oil . Natural Nutrition Products . Organic Foods Currently Ian is supported by ‘AST Sports Science’ supplements, his clients are also. . Many more camps at Bodyindesign. . New vidoes on youtube. . 2-New books in 2009 .

Continue to help clients achieve their goals Ian has created a name for himself in the world of figure, bodybuilding and natural health. His passion and innovation have kept him at the top for years. He is truly a trainers’ trainer – in fact his nickname is The Guru. Need we say more? Areas for more info: Short and sharp book—True Grit book—bodyindesign web site—look for articles on this site and others featuring Ian.

Who I’d like to meet:
I have met most of my hero’s Robby– Arnold–Stallone–Labrada. I never got to meet the now passed away Arthur Jones. He was an awesome man that changed the industry I am in today.

Be sure to visit Ian’s website, www.bodyindesign.co.uk.

He had at least seven television stations on hand to document this event. Also on hand was John Balik, the owner of IronMan Magazine, who by the way is one of the big Sponsors of this great event. Reg Lewis was the recepient of the Muscle Beach Hall of Fame award. Chet Yorton also made an appearance for this show and he also was the recipient for the July 4 Muscle Beach Hall of Fame Award. One really has to physicaly be there to get the real feel and energy of how great this event is. It has the best backdrop that any show could wish for.

You’ve got the boardwalk, which on any given Saturday, Sunday or holiday has thousands walking up and down from Santa Monica to Venice. You have the sun, the surf and all types of entertainmet all along the boardwalk. I would hope that anyone visiting Los Angeles, especially if it is on a summer holiday such as Memorial Day, July 4 or Labor Day, you have got to visit Venice Muscle Beach. You will find it a great experience. See you at the next Muscle Beach Show.

2009 Muscle Beach Championships (Results)

MEN

Heavyweight - Peter Jablonski

Light-Heavyweight – Ramsey Abdin

Lightweight – Bishoy Hanna

Masters Over 40 – Thorsten Vosgerau

Masters Over 50 – Ramsey Abdin

Masters Over 60 – Jerry Burton

Middleweight – Guillermo Escalante

Novice Heavyweight – Shawn Zimpfer

Novice Light-Heavyweight – Ryan Swasey

Novice Lightweight – Bishoy Hanna

Novice Middleweight – Kinshasa Moffitt

Overall Novice – Bishoy Hanna

Overall Winner – Peter Jablonski

Teen – Boston Loyd

WOMEN

Heavyweight – Victoria Dominquez

Lightweight – Jackie Lee

Masters – Jutta Vosgerau

Overall Winner – Victoria Dominquez

FIGURE

Masters Over 35 – Cheryl Stoneham

Masters Over 45 – Cheryl Stoneham

Medium – Andrea Mandella

Novice Medium – Kelly Grossman

Novice Short – Taylor Hansen

Overall Novice – Taylor Hansen

Short – Sonjya Rossow

Overall Winner – Andrea Mandella

MIXED

Mixed Pairs – Jutta Vosgerau, Thorsten Vosgerau

BIKINI

Medium – Victoria Kirsanova

Short – Carolyn Wang

Tall – Victoria Hodgkins

Overall Winner – Victoria Kirsanova

For information on Bill Grant’s Old School Training DVD and Creatine Cocktail supplement, please visit www.billgrant.net

(Photo: MuscleSport Mag staff writers Bill Grant and Brenda Kelly by “The Pit.”)

The younger brother of Vic Tanny – who went on to become one of the pioneers of the gym industry – Armand won the 1949 Pro Mr. America and 1950 Mr. USA titles. He came to the forefront in “Strength & Health” magazine at the young age of 14.

The Rochester, New York native broke in to the business as a weightlifter, as many of the old-time bodybuilders did. He competed in that field as a teenager and placed second in the 1941 Junior nationals in Ohio. As many young men of the era did, Tanny joined the military when the United States became involved in World War II and he suffered a knee injury. 

Once back home, he turned to bodybuilding and could either be found at Muscle Beach or his brothers gym in Santa Monica. Tanny was also part of the Mae West traveling nightclub act, a group of which Zabo was also a part of.

Tanny delved into a brief acting career and also tried his hand at professional wrestling in the 1950s. He also joined the Joe Weider crew and was a writer for Muscle Power (the precursor of Muscle & Fitness) magazine.