Breon Ansley, the acclaimed American professional bodybuilder, is embarking on an exciting new chapter in his career as he sets his sights on the 212 division in 2023.
With a successful history in the IFBB Pro League’s Classic Physique division, including two Olympia titles, Ansley is eager to explore the opportunities presented in the 212 class.
Recently, he joined forces with fitness influencer Tristyn Lee for a rigorous back and biceps workout, showcasing his dedication to achieving a suitable body composition for this next phase.
The Classic Physique Era
For much of his illustrious career, Breon Ansley has been a force to be reckoned with in the Classic Physique division. As a former Classic Physique Olympia champion, he secured victories at the prestigious event in 2017 and 2018.
Despite stiff competition, Ansley remained a consistent top-five finisher at the Olympia in subsequent years.
However, after a fourth-place finish in the 2022 Olympia, Ansley decided to bid farewell to the Classic Physique division and embrace new challenges.
The Transition to the 212 Division
Having previously competed in the 212 division early in his career, Ansley is no stranger to its demands.
As he sets his sights on making the complete transition in 2023, the 43-year-old is determined to optimize his physique for the new weight class.
Unlike in Classic Physique, where competitors must adhere to strict size limitations, the 212 division allows Ansley to maintain his muscle mass without compromise.
His aim is precise – to claim victory at the 2023 Olympia and etch his name in the history books again.
Team-Up with Tristyn Lee
In his quest for excellence, Breon Ansley sought out fitness influencer Tristyn Lee for a back and biceps workout.
Tristyn’s reputation for maintaining minimal body fat and sporting a ripped physique has made him a standout in the YouTube fitness community.
Recently, Lee has hinted at entering competitive bodybuilding, making this collaboration all the more intriguing.
The Intense Back and Biceps Workout
Ansley and Lee embarked on an intense back and biceps workout, utilizing the rest-pause training method for all exercises.
Focused on adding mass, width, and depth to their back and biceps muscles, the duo spared no effort in this training session.
Pull-Ups
The workout commenced with four pull-ups to warm up the back and biceps. Ansley led the way, acknowledging the challenge of pull-ups, mainly as he increased his body weight.
Maintaining strength and rep count is crucial as he prepares for the new division.
Hammer Strength Low Rows
Next, Ansley and Lee engaged in hammer-strength low rows, a compound movement targeting various back muscles.
This exercise is vital for developing muscle mass and improving upper body posture.
Cable High Rows
Continuing their back-focused training, the duo performed cable high rows, further stimulating the back muscles.
These horizontal pulling movements are integral for building a thick back while safeguarding the shoulders during upper body exercises.
Dumbbell Shrugs
Shifting their focus to traps, Ansley and Lee executed heavy sets of dumbbell shrugs. Well-developed traps contribute to a robust appearance and aid in scapular functions, protecting against neck injuries.
EZ Bar Curls
Ansley and Lee performed sets of EZ bar curls for biceps isolation, benefiting from the curved shape that maintains a natural wrist position. This exercise primarily targets the biceps brachii muscles, promoting strength and muscle gain.
Dumbbell Preacher Curls
Concluding the workout, the duo tackled dumbbell preacher curls, an effective exercise for isolating the biceps.
By firmly pressing the triceps against the pad, this exercise forces the biceps to lift the weight unassisted, leading to enhanced strength and muscle growth.
Challenges Ahead
As Breon Ansley prepares to transition to the 212 division, he acknowledges the hurdles he will face. Reigning champion Shaun Clarida presents formidable opposition on the path to claiming the division title.
Nevertheless, Ansley’s unwavering determination and dedication to his craft make him a strong contender for victory.
The Takeaways
Breon Ansley’s journey to the 212 division marks a pivotal moment in his illustrious career.
With a successful track record in the Classic Physique division, he now embraces new challenges and opportunities in the weight class that aligns perfectly with his physique.
The intense back and biceps workout with Tristyn Lee exemplifies Ansley’s commitment to refining his body composition and taking on the best in the 212 division.
As the 2023 Olympia draws near, the bodybuilding community awaits Ansley’s arrival on the grand stage, eager to witness another chapter of greatness unfold.