- Name: Ken Bragg
- E-mail: kenneth.bragg@gte.net
- Age: 35
- Where: Pittsburgh, PA
- Height: 5'4"
- Weight: 190 Lbs.
- Years Bodybuilding :23
- Favorite Bodypart: Triceps, Abs, Back
- Favorite Exercise: Weighted Dips
- Favorite Supplements: Champion Nutrition's Protein, Creatine, & Glutamine
How Did You Get Started?
My older brother Jim introduced me to weights at the age of 12. I had good results and became instantly hooked. I have always wanted to compete in bodybuilding but the military and college seemed to use too much of my time. Finally, I decided that it was time to get up on stage and see where I stood among the other natural competitors. My first contest was the 1999 NABF Allegheny Mega-Natural where I placed 4th in the men's open middleweights. I took a year off from training so that I could concentrate on improving some areas. I then competed in the 2000 NABF Steel City Classic where I won the middleweight and the overall which qualified me to turn pro in this organization.
What Workout Plan Worked Best For You?
I have always used volume training but recently I have started to use more of a reduced volume/increased intensity program. I work each bodypart just once a week to allow maximum recovery. I use the heaviest weights that I can for 4-6 reps going to total positive failure. I usually train Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, & Friday with Wednesday and the weekend off.
What Nutrition Plan Has Worked Best For You?
What Supplements Have Given You The Greatest Gains?
Champion Nutrition Creatine is by far the best that I have ever used. I also use their protein and glutamine.
Why do you love Bodybuilding?
I love natural bodybuilding. Since I do not use drugs, natural bodybuilding contests have provided me with an opportunity to compete. I enjoy being on stage and displaying all of the years of sacrifice and hard work that it has taken to get there. There's no feeling like being on stage and hearing the screams and cheers from the audience; acknowledging that you have done your best to prepare for that contest. Bodybuilding has truly been instrumental in shaping me into the person that I am today.
What Are Your Future Bodybuilding Plans?
I will judge another NABF contest (The Steel City Classic) on April 21, 2001 in Monroeville, PA. The following week I anticipate in competing in the Musclemania Northeast in New Haven, CT. I will continue to judge, compete in, and eventually promote natural bodybuilding contests for as long as is possible.
What One Tip Would You Give Other Bodybuilders?
Train heavy and go to positive failure! Many bodybuilders simply do not go heavy enough to reach failure within a good rep range, especially on squats. When preparing for a contest do not make the mistake of reducing the amount of weight for your workouts; keep the weights as heavy as possible without sacrificing too much form so that the risk of injury is minimal.
Who Are Your Favorite Bodybuilders?
I admire Skip LaCour for what he has accomplished and what he has contributed to the sport of natural bodybuilding. Also, I admire Rick Balbo (1999 NABF National Champion), "Tricky" Jackson, and Derik Farnsworth.