To support our mission to provide our Armstrong Foundation 'Let's Talk' service to the public, bring awareness to mental health and break the stigma around the topic, our team, along with clients, will embark on the iconic Yorkshire three peaks challenge on the 18th of May.

Yet another client and coach activity bringing our community from around the UK together.
Our aim is to raise donations for the 'Let's Talk' therapy program, aiming to make mental health support more accessible to the male public. By contributing, you are helping us extend our mission of promoting mental well-being for all.

You can find all the information about our Armstrong Foundation by hitting this link: Armstrong Foundation

A huge congratulations to our latest client of the month, Lucas Ballasy. Lucas has a history of fitness after dedicating years to powerlifting, strongman, cycling competitions but found himself with no direction.

He loved the physical side to his training but wanted to learn more about all elements of fitness and with that, his physique to be in the best form possible.

Working with our amazing coach Ash, Lucas has dropped an incredible 30lbs, starting at 156 and no sits at 128. With a new baby, Lucas’s biggest challenge was routine but with Ash, we created the ultimate program that allowed for a healthy and impactful work/family/fitness life balance.

“I think the biggest win is actually seeing how far my physique has come” – Lucas

WORKOUT 1

Phase 1 - Legs

Lying hamstring curls 15,12,10
leg press 20,15,10,10
Back squats 10,8,6
Smith machine Bulgarian split squats 15,12,10
Leg extensions 15,12,10
Standing calf raises. 20,15,15,10

Phase 2

Hero workout - Holleyman
30 rounds for time
5 wall balls @9kg
3 hand stand press ups
1 BB power clean @100kg

WORKOUT 2

Phase 1 - Push

Flat barbell bench 10,8,6
Seated db shoulder press 12,10,8
Seated chest press machine 12,10,8
Db side raises 20,15,10
Weighted Tricep dips 12,10,8
Tricep behind the head extensions 20,15,10
100 push ups for time

WORKOUT 3

Descending Erg calorie ladder for time
50-40-30-20-10calories
Bike erg
Rower
Ski erg

WORKOUT 1

Phase 1 - Pull

Pull ups 3 x max reps sets (wide/close/neutral)
T bar row machine 12,10,8 (dropset on the last set)
Seated iso back row machine single arm 12,10,8
Rear dumbbell flys 15,12,10 (dropset on the last set)
Preacher curl machine 15,12,10 (dropset on the last set)
Db seated curls 15,12,10

Phase 2

6 rounds
Every 3mins complete
20 calorie row
12 Toes to bar
Max barbell clean and press @40kg
90 seconds rest after each round
Notes: Write down how many max BB clean and press you accumulated in the 6 rounds. This is your score

WORKOUT 2

Phase 1 - Legs

Leg extensions 15,12,10 (dropset on the last set)
Back squats 10,8,6
Smith machine Bulgarian split squats 15,12,10 (dropset on the last set)
Lying hamstring curls 15,12,10
Standing calf raises. 20,15,15,10

WORKOUT 1

Phase 1 - Pull

BB Deadlifts 10,8,6
T bar row machine 12,10,8
Seated iso back row machine single arm 12,10,8
Close grip pull ups 3 x max reps
Rear machine flys 15,12,10
Db alternating curls 15,12,10 (each arm)
Db hammer curls 15,12,10 (each arm)

Phase 2

7km Run (Zone 3)

WORKOUT 2

3 rounds in pairs for time

600m Rower | I go u go
600m Ski erg | I go u go
400m run (together)
Into…
Db ball over double box 20 @40kg
BB Cleans 20 @80kg
Db Devil press 20 @20kg
50min time cap

WORKOUT 3

60M’AMRAP | I-GO-YOU-GO

In pairs complete as many rounds as possible
10 BB squats @BW
15 Toes to bar
20 cal Bike erg

Congratulations to our latest client of the month, Alexander Kitaev. 10 years training in the gym and after just 5 months working with coach Mikey has seen more progress than he has ever seen in his life. He is truly in the best shape of his life and his dedication and strive to be the best version of himself has awarded Alex with the client of the month! Alexander lost a total of 12kg, dropping from 84.5kg down to a lean 72.5kg. After years of trial-and-error training, he finally revealed the muscular physique he had worked so hard for.

Check out our Q&A with client Alexander below and check out the Physique Academy YouTube channel as Alexander and Mikey catch up in Dubai for a face-to-face chat.

Why did you join Physique Academy?

I joined the Physique Academy in the end of September 2023, and started the program from October 2023.

Why did you join Physique Academy?

Before joining the Physique Academy, I had been going to the gym for about 10 years, but without any proper systematic approach, with big breaks and without nutrition plan. I had managed to build muscles, but the main challenge was to get lean so that all those muscles started popping out properly. So, my goal was to achieve 10-12% body fat and maintain the muscle mass as much as possible.

WORKOUT 1

Phase 1

ARMS & CALVES

Bicep seated db curls 15,12,10
Tricep close grip bench press 15,12,10 drop set
Bicep preacher curl machine 15,12,10 drop set last set
Tricep over head ez bar cable extensions 15,12,10 drop set last set
Tricep cable push downs 15,12,15
Bicep Ez bar curls 15,12,10 drop set last set
Push ups close stance 3x max out reps
Standing calves raises 20,20,20,15,15

Phase 2

Partner workout | I-go-u-go
10x20cal @85-90RPM
10x30cal @75-80RPM

GO AS FAST AS POSSIBLE. Alternate between the two of you. I GO U GO. One of you will rest when your training partner is on the assault bike. Make sure you keep so the in the RPM range on the bike

WORKOUT 2

WORKOUT 1

Phase 1 - Push

Flat db bench 10,8,6 (dropset on the last set)
Seated ISO shoulder press machine 12,10,8
Seated chest press machine 12,10,8 (dropset on the last set)
Seated db side raises 20,15,10
Weighted Tricep dips 12,10,8
Tricep cable standing over head tricep extensions 20,15,10 (dropset on the last set)

Phase 2

3M’AMRAP
3 Power Cleans @60kg
6 Push-Ups
9 Air Squats

Info: 6 Rounds of 3 minute AMRAPs. Complete as many rounds and repetitions as possible in 3 mins. 1 minute rest after each 3 minute AMRAP
Repeat 6 times total

Score
- Official scoring: After each 3-minute cycle, start over
Record the score (roundstreps) individually for each of the five AMRAPS*
- Common scoring: After each 3-minute cycle, start where you left off at the end of the previous cycle

WORKOUT 1

Phase 1

ARMS & CALVES

Bicep seated db curls 15,12,10
Tricep close grip bench press 15,12,10 drop set
Bicep preacher curl machine 15,12,10 drop set last set
Tricep over head ez bar cable extensions 15,12,10 drop set last set
Tricep cable push downs 15,12,15
Bicep Ez bar curls 15,12,10 drop set last set
Push ups close stance 3x max out reps
Standing calves raises 20,20,20,15,15

Phase 2

10-20-30-40-50
Rower calories
Toes to bar
Wall Ball Shots (20/14 lb)

P.s. 5 rounds that each combine the exercises, In the first round, you Row 10 calories followed by 10 toes to bar followed by 10 Wall Ball Shots. In the second round you Row 20 calories followed by 20 toes to bar followed by 20 Wall Ball Shots

WORKOUT 2

WORKOUT 1

Phase 1

10M’EMOM
1MIN: BB snatch @80%

Rest 3 mins.

Into…
10M’EMOM
1MIN: 2 BB thrusters @80%

Phase 2

10 ROUNDS
3M’EMON - Every 3 mins for 30 mins complete.
D ball over shoulder 6 @55kg
Burpee over d ball 6
Pistol squat 6
Ghd 6
Assault bike 6cals

WORKOUT 1

Phase 1

ARMS  & CALVES

Bicep seated db curls 15,12,10
Tricep close grip bench press 15,12,10 drop set
Bicep preacher curl machine 15,12,10 drop set last set.
Tricep over head ez bar cable extensions 15,12,10 drop set last set.
Tricep cable push downs 15,12,15
Bicep Ez bar curls 15,12,10 drop set last set.
Push ups close stance 3x max out reps
Standing calves raises 20,20,20,15,15

Phase 2

Rower
500x10
1 min rest between each round.

WORKOUT 2

Phase 1

6 Rounds - 4:00mON/2:00mREST
18cal assault bike
12 GHD sit ups
5 Burpee Box jump owners
Into…
Round 1/4: Max BB Push press @50kg
Round 2/5: Max BB Sumo high pull @50kg
Round 3/6: Max BB Squat cleans @50kg

Ps. Write your score down of max reps for each round.

Congratulations to our latest client of the month, Edward Blackburn. When Edward first reached out to Physique Academy, he had been paralyzed by analysis and too much contradictory fitness information online.

Equip with a nutrition and training plan, educational resources, community access and an incredible coach, Edward that removed the guesswork completely. After 5 months of working, Edward has completely transformed his physique and strength.

Initially weighing 92kg, Edward has dropped down to 77kg at the end of his journey while increasing his major strength lifts substantially.

We caught up with Edward for to discuss his time with the Physique Academy.

WORKOUT 1

Push - Phase 1

Flat db bench 10,8,6
Seated ISO shoulder press machine 12,10,8
Seated chest press machine 12,10,8
Cable single arm side raises 20,15,10
Weighted Tricep dips 12,10,8
Tricep behind the head extensions 20,15,10

Phase 2

Open workout
@22.5kg dumbbells
10 db snatches
15 Burpee box jump overs
20 db snatches
15 Burpee box jump overs
30 db snatches
15 Burpee box jump overs
40 db snatches
15 Burpee box jump overs
50 db snatches
15 Burpee box jump overs

WORKOUT 2

Legs - Phase 1

Lying hamstring curls 15,12,10
Leg extensions 15,12,10
Barbell back squats 10,8,6
Smith machine Bulgarian split squats 15,12,10 (each leg)

Phase 2

AMRAP in 20 minutes
6 Dumbbell Man Makers
7 Box Step Ups
@22.5kgs each dumbbell

WORKOUT 1

Legs - Phase 1

Leg extensions 15,12,10 (dropset on the last set)
Back squats 10,8,6
Smith machine Bulgarian split squats 15,12,10 (dropset on the last set)
Lying hamstring curls 15,12,10
Standing calf raises. 20,15,15,10

Phase 2

Muay Thai
1 hour conditioning
Or
1 Hour Cardio

WORKOUT 2

Push - Phase 1

Flat db bench 10,8,6 (dropset on the last set)
Seated ISO shoulder press machine 12,10,8
Seated chest press machine 12,10,8 (dropset on the last set)
Seated db side raises 20,15,10
Weighted Tricep dips 12,10,8
Tricep cable standing over head tricep extensions 20,15,10 (dropset on the last set)

WORKOUT 1

Legs - Phase 1

Leg extensions 15,12,10 (dropset on the last set)
Back squats 10,8,6
Smith machine Bulgarian split squats 15,12,10 (dropset on the last set)
Lying hamstring curls 15,12,10
Standing calf raises. 20,15,15,10

Phase 2

Mhay Thai
1 hour conditioning.

WORKOUT 2

Push - Phase 1

Flat db bench 10,8,6 (dropset on the last set)
Seated ISO shoulder press machine 12,10,8
Seated chest press machine 12,10,8 (dropset on the last set)
Seated db side raises 20,15,10
Weighted Tricep dips 12,10,8
Tricep cable standing over head tricep extensions 20,15,10 (dropset on the last set)

Phase 2

6 rounds

A huge congratulations to our January Client of the month, Patrick Rogan. Patrick heard about Physique Academy through a family friend and decided to commit fully to the program after connecting with coach Sam. He wanted a new challenge and to reach his full potential both physically and mentally. The biggest obstacle for Patrick was changing his mindset and building the discipline required for this lifestyle change. There were tough moments when Patrick wanted to stray from the plan, but Sam was always there to steer him back on track. One of Patrick's biggest wins has been developing unshakeable self-belief and mental toughness. The program taught him to demand the best from himself and overcome any challenge, whether in the gym or in life. His newfound confidence has skyrocketed - he now approaches any difficulty knowing he can give 100% effort to succeed. The results speak for themselves - Patrick has lost an incredible 44 lbs throughout his transformation!

When did you join the Physique Academy?

I joined PA in March 2023

Why did you join Physique Academy?

After delaying joining for some time, I realised that in order to reach my physical goals I needed help and after seeing what all the lads have achieved I knew it was the place to join.

What have you achieved both physically and personally since joining the academy?

Physically I’ve gotten into the shape of my life and reached a physique that I never ever thought I’d achieve which is amazing! Personally, I know my mindset has done a complete 180 as things that would get me down no longer bother me in the slightest and I think this has improved every relationship I have too.

A HUGE congratulations to client Andrew who recently completed the Goggin's challenge accomplishing "what I think will be the toughest physical test that I have ever done" running 4 miles, every 4 hours for 48 hours!

Andrew has chosen the Armstrong Foundation as one of his chosen causes to raise money in order to enhance the mission is to help save lives through fitness, nutrition, healthy habits, positive mindset, self development and form a brotherhood. To date the Armstrong Foundation therapists have conducted 248 support sessions for both client and coaches

What made you want to do the challenge?

I wanted to push myself to my physical and mental limits. I am knowingly throwing myself right into the deep end through uncharted territory, way beyond my comfort zone. Being able to raise money and spread awareness to causes close to me also provides further accountability and motivation while helping others.

Why is the foundation one of your charities?

The discussion around mental health thankfully is becoming more and more open. However, there is still progress to be made around men’s mental health. If I can raise awareness and support to help other men feel comfortable to talk without the fear of stigmatisation, that would be fantastic.

How have you trained for this?

I wouldn’t consider myself a natural runner, but I started out with small, manageable distances, with a focus on solid pace and strengthening my legs. As the weeks passed, the distances increased with the focus shifting towards time on my feet rather than a faster pace. This was while continuing with my weight training throughout the week. Thankfully
I’ve had Harry to give me guidance and track my performance to make sure I’m making the best possible progress. The key here is consistency. Just keep turning up. I never thought I’d be in a position to say that I’m a keen runner, but by going through this experience, you might see me run a marathon sometime in the future. You never know!

WORKOUT 1

Legs - Phase 1

Lying hamstring curls 15,12,10
Leg extensions 15,12,10
Barbell back squats 10,8,6
Smith machine Bulgarian split squats 15,12,10 (each leg)

Phase 2

Mhay Thai
1 hour conditioning

WORKOUT 2

Push - Phase 1

Flat db bench 10,8,6
Seated ISO shoulder press machine 12,10,8
Seated chest press machine 12,10,8
Seated db side raises 20,15,10
Weighted Tricep dips 12,10,8
Tricep behind the head extensions 20,15,10

WORKOUT 1

Push - Phase 1

Flat db bench 10,8,6
Seated ISO shoulder press machine 12,10,8
Seated chest press machine 12,10,8
Cable single arm side raises 20,15,10
Weighted Tricep dips 12,10,8
Tricep behind the head extensions 20,15,10

Phase 2

Rowing
2000m
Rest 1:30m
1500m
Rest 1:30
1000m
Rest 1:30
500m
Rest 1:30m
250m

WORKOUT 2

Pull - Phase 1

BB Deadlifts 10,8,6
T bar row machine 12,10,8
Seated iso back row machine single arm 12,10,8
Close grip pull ups 3 x max reps
Rear machine flys 15,12,10
Db alternating curls 15,12,10 (each arm)
Db hammer curls 15,12,10 (each arm)

WORKOUT 1

Legs - Phase 1

Lying hamstring curls 15,12,10
Leg extensions 15,12,10
Barbell back squats 10,8,6
Smith machine Bulgarian split squats 15,12,10 (each leg)

Phase 2

40M’EMOM
1min: Ski erg 15cal
2min: Rower 15cal
3min: Assault bike 15cal
4min: Rest

(Set a calorie target on your ability)
Beginner: 12cal
Intermediate: 15cal
Advanced: 16cal
Elite: 17cal

WORKOUT 2

Push- Phase 1

Flat db bench 10,8,6
Seated ISO shoulder press machine 12,10,8
Seated chest press machine 12,10,8
Cable single arm side raises 20,15,10
Weighted Tricep dips 12,10,8
Tricep behind the head extensions 20,15,10

Phase 2

 In pairs complete for time
100 Assault bike calories
80 Toes to bar
60 Db Devil press single arm @32kg
40 Sand bag Box over burpee double box @40kg
20 Barbell Clean & Jerks @80kg