As the 2024 Mr. Olympia approaches, bodybuilders around the world are intensifying their training regimens to peak at the right moment. Among them is Shaun Clarida, known as ‘The Giant Killer,’ who is rigorously preparing to reclaim his 212 Olympia title.
On July 29, 2024, Shaun Clarida shared a detailed look at his hamstring and glute-focused leg workout on YouTube, showcasing his relentless dedication and strategic approach.
Shaun Clarida’s Rise and Challenges
Standing at just five feet and two inches, Shaun Clarida has defied the odds to reach the pinnacle of the 212 division. His journey is marked by significant victories over prominent competitors like Derek Lunsford and Kamal Elgargni.
Shaun Clarida is a two-time 212 Olympia champion, and his dominance in the division made him the favorite to win last year. However, he was unexpectedly dethroned by Keone Pearson, whose superior aesthetics and shape earned him the gold.
This year, Shaun Clarida is fueled by the desire to regain his title and prove that he is still the best in the 212 category.
Related: Giant Killer Shaun Clarida Attacks Quads in High-Intensity Leg Session
The Mindset of a Champion
Clarida’s preparation for the 2024 Mr. Olympia is marked by a chip on his shoulder. The transition from being the hunted to the hunter has reignited his competitive spirit.
He is determined to showcase his improved physique and outwork his competition.
Throughout his training journey, Shaun Clarida has been transparent with his fans, sharing insights into his grueling workouts for various muscle groups.
His recent focus on hamstrings and glutes highlights the meticulous planning and effort that goes into every session.
The Hamstring and Glute-Focused Workout
In his latest YouTube video, Shaun Clarida provides a comprehensive walkthrough of his hamstring and glute-focused leg day.
With the Mr. Olympia contest just 11 weeks away, this workout is crucial for enhancing muscle detail and conditioning.
Clarida’s workout routine includes a series of exercises specifically chosen to target the hamstrings and glutes effectively.
Related: Shaun Clarida Diet Plan and Workout Routine
Lying Leg Curl Machine
Clarida begins his workout with the lying leg curl machine. He emphasizes the importance of proper rest periods between sets to ensure maximum effort and effectiveness.
“I never want to shortchange myself and half-ass that next set. I take the time that I need to recover, this way I can give every set 100 percent,” says Clarida.
This exercise helps him achieve a solid hamstring pump and sets the tone for the rest of the workout.
Seated Hamstring Curl Machine
Next, Clarida moves to the seated hamstring curl machine. Given the pump from the lying leg curls, he focuses on a few intense sets to further engage his hamstrings.
“My hamstrings are really pumped from lying. So, I don’t need to really do much warming up here. Probably just one, two feeders. Again, one to two all-out heavy work sets,” he explains.
Standing Leg Curl Machine
Shaun Clarida then incorporates the standing leg curl machine into his routine. He highlights the benefits of unilateral movements for addressing symmetry imbalances.
“Unilateral movements are great for people who have, their symmetry is a little off, where one leg, or one arm, or whatever is bigger than the other. It happens.
For us, unilateral movements definitely help with trying to make that symmetry a little more perfect,” Clarida notes.
Cable Stiff Leg Deadlift
One of Clarida’s preferred exercises for constant tension throughout the movement is the cable stiff leg deadlift.
“I’m very much an advocate for cables. I think they have a time and place for everything. The reason I’m doing cables today is one because I haven’t done them in a while and I’m a big believer in changing things up, hitting different angles, different feels. Two, that cable is going to keep constant tension throughout the entire movement for me,” he shares.
Smith Machine Hip Thrust
To target his glutes, Clarida includes Smith machine hip thrusts. This exercise is crucial for building glute strength and enhancing overall lower body development.
Elevated Dumbbell Sumo Squat
Clarida’s next glute-focused movement is the elevated dumbbell sumo squat. He focuses on a controlled motion to ensure effective contractions and a thorough squeeze
. “Just really focusing on keeping the hips forward and really drive, stretching the glutes down in the bottom position and coming up and really contracting and squeezing everything,” he explains.
Pro Force Leg Stretcher Machine
To wind down from the intense session, Clarida uses the Pro Force leg stretcher machine.
This helps him stretch and open up his muscles, providing a relaxing end to his workout. “It kind of helps wind me down, stretches things out, opens things up, and it’s just my way of sighing at the end of the session,” he says.
Clarida’s Determination and Focus
Throughout his training, Clarida’s determination to reclaim his 212 Olympia title is evident.
He meticulously plans his workouts, ensuring each session is effective and contributes to his overall goal.
His dedication to maintaining peak physical condition, despite the challenges, sets him apart as a true champion.
The Rivalry with Keone Pearson
Keone Pearson, the current 212 Olympia champion, is not overlooking Clarida. Pearson acknowledges Clarida’s past success and the rivalry between them, comparing it to the legendary competition between Phil Heath and Kai Greene.
This rivalry is set to culminate in an epic showdown at the Mr. Olympia contest, adding an extra layer of excitement to the event.
Related: Keone Pearson vs Shaun Clarida: From Rivalry to Open Ambitions
Conclusion
Shaun Clarida’s hamstring and glute-focused leg workout is a testament to his relentless pursuit of excellence.
His detailed and disciplined approach to training showcases his commitment to regaining the 212 Olympia title. As the 2024 Mr. Olympia approaches, fans and competitors alike will be eagerly watching to see if ‘The Giant Killer’ can reclaim his throne.
With his unwavering determination and strategic training, Shaun Clarida is poised to make a significant impact on the bodybuilding stage once again.