TAKE CHARGE

      Fitness at the Edge of Science

by Clarence Bass

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Fresh and Compelling

Richard A. Winett, Ph.D.
Heilig Meyers Emeritus Professor of Psychology
Virginia Tech

OMG, He's Still Doing It

How & Why

I'm in the camp that appreciates your style: intelligence guided by exercise focused research, and experience.  A good coach can tell you what and how, and a great one can tell you why.

You help us educate and convince ourselves.

Dave Walsh

Inspires and Informs

My own health situation is not dire but being born with one kidney gives me motivation to protect it. 

Your approach saved me a lot of grief in my early 20’s. My friends mostly resided on nearby cattle farms. We were all eager to get bigger. Some started taking anabolic steroids they had access to for their cattle, just guessing at dosages.

I resisted my ego and the temptation to join my friends in their experimentation, while reading about how Clarence was the leanest man in bodybuilding.

All it would have taken at that time is likely for me to pick up the wrong magazine and peer pressure may have won the day. Clarence has followed science and keen observation to his credit in pursuits of achievement of his potential. Many lessons to be taken from Clarence that extend well beyond bodybuilding and nutrition. What a great role model, more a healthy lifestyle!

Clarence’s contribution to bodybuilding, fitness and diet will be welcomed reference materials in my home and a terrific keepsake from a man who in many ways helped to construct a very important body of work that I am sure has inspired and informed many people.

That is not a small legacy.

Carl McIntosh

Thank You

I was on your website today reading a few articles and want to thank you for your site and the knowledge you provide.

You are a true gentleman and a great credit to the physical culture and health Lifestyle.  Long may you train and enjoy

your life. 

Much Respect,

Jim Figurniak

PS:. CHALLENGE YOURSELF is still my favorite book of yours. I re-read it often. 

Transformation

I stumbled upon your name, mulling over a history of nutrition and bodybuilding. I'm grateful for the wealth of knowledge and documentation that you have amassed in one place. I've come to appreciate physical fitness and autonomy on a deep personal level, moving from 350+ pound morbid obesity to a fit young man with a passion for movement.

I've had to address so many habits, coping mechanisms, and behaviors around food and my body image, and your personal story was a breath of fresh air. I'd like to personally thank you for being an advocate. For advocating rest. For advocating doing what brings you joy, enjoying food, enjoying life. I feel safer taking more rest and less physical and emotional punishment in the name of an unreal struggle for "never good enough." You are an inspiration and pretty swell human. Thank you for speaking your truth to the world.

Tyler Woods

Aging Well

In Dec. 2019, I collapsed with blood clots in my lungs.  5 days in intensive care and I was back up, running and training with weights in the gym.  Drs. were amazed at how fit I was for a 71 year old and barring the blood clots, my lungs and heart were great.  I just told them that an even older American gentleman who I have never met has been the inspiration for me over many years.  They hadn't a clue what I was talking about but, I thought this message would make you smile and know that your lifetimes work is still helping people.

All the best - Graham.

That's Who I Want To Be Like, Then & Now

When I discovered your Ripped articles in the early 1980s as a young lifter, I remember saying to myself, "That's who I want to look like when I'm older."  Well, now that I'm older (and bald), I've strived for that health & look you always presented - for this, I am forever grateful to you for your inspiration.
Thank you for your website, your eloquent writing and keeping those of us in the "masters" generation updated on the importance of health & strength as we age. 
Your writing on diet & weight training all those decades ago in Muscle & Fitness affected all of us who are now older - and we are better for it.  I do hope this finds you and your family safe during this trying time in our nation's history.

My best regards to you - Joe Daniels

Physical Culture Historian

Hi Clarence, just been browsing your site, always loved your stuff, have your books, always read your articles, you are a great inspiration.

Thanks for keeping honest bodybuilding alive; you and I know that good old fashioned training, along with rest and decent nutrition stays with you all your life.

God Bless, David Gentle, now 85 having spent 74 years in the iron game, see our “History of Physical Culture” website: https://www.davidgentle.com/ 

*  *  *

The History of Physical Culture (HOPC) contains one of the largest and most comprehensive online libraries of its kind.  It was originally founded under the name, Sandow Plus in the United Kingdom in the late 90’s.  Following the untimely death of one of its founders, ownership was transferred to Canada and it was renamed the History of Physical Culture (HOPC).  Since then it has grown exponentially. 

Its online library represents two decades of collective literature that consists of rare historical publications from the early 1900’s to modern times. The HOPC Library offers resources to meet the needs of individuals, historians, media outlets, scholars, researchers and the academic community. Along with contemporary work and biographies by its talented team of historians and writers, it contains hundreds of rare books, articles and photos donated by the HOPC Team and collectors from all over the world who support the HOPC’s vision to preserve history.”

Fitness & Science

The two of you redirected my mindset to a really useful way to approach fitness. The power of small improvements is quite amazing! I also use the website to keep up to date on fitness as well as to be inspired by the success stories you share.

Secondly, you two were the originals when it came to putting "science" into fitness! There are many in the fitness world who claim this moniker now, but you two started this years ago - and share a lot of the information at no cost to your followers.

Kudos!  

Scott R.

Thoughtful Gesture

I am writing to thank you. 

I got involved with some very bad people and ended up in prison.  I followed the wrong guys and lost my career. While in jail, I wrote to you  and you were kind enough to write back and include a complimentary copy of one of your books. 

I found it to be such a kind, thoughtful gesture and want to thank you for  it. 

I first saw you back in the early 80's in muscle magazines and followed you ever since. You are the Jack LaLanne of my generation. Truly a gentleman, a scholar, and an Inspiration!

Appreciate Openness

I have been a fan of Clarence and Carol for almost 30 years now.  I like how open and real you are with your photos and even your doctor & Cooper Clinic results.  You have been the #1 influence on how I train.  In fact, I was talking to a friend at dinner tonight about some of the things you have taught me over the years. 

Thank you again for all you do.

NP in Ohio

Happy birthday Clarence!

I really appreciate you taking the time to share the results of your Cooper  Clinic checkup.  Of course, your "ageless" pictures speak for themselves.  As a result, your life reflects solid confirmation that your fitness and diet philosophy is RIGHT ON!

The best part of your sharing is that you tell it like it is without altering the results.  Your sincerity on the aging process demonstrates your character makeup.  Plus, your writing style makes for a great narrative of who you are...a super healthy individual.  Thanks for your information which encourages us all to keep focusing on our long term health!

You definitely are an inspiration and motivator.

Sincerely,

Victor D.  Silva

Thank You from English Instructor

I'm now over 70 years young, been training since 12 years old including Army and Police service as an instructor; found out about your methods of training in the 1980s and have been an enthusiast for your methods ever since.

I have received and delivered training all over Europe working with and for Police and Special Forces.

All these organization's fitness training programs are condensed in your core philosophy of cardio, strength through resistance training, diet ,and above all, keep at it and cycle the training program up and down to allow recovery.

I like the way you embrace age and training methods to suit real life. Hence I believe your programs are spot on and your acknowledgement of aging keeps my spirits high and myself on the way to the gym.

Thank you for inspiring another human being to live well.

All the best from England,
Graham Lawrence

Gary's Gurus

"What Gary Keller (1019 Legacy Award recipient) has learned from decades atop real estate industry...are the tenants that guide Keller's life--those espoused by people such as mega-investor Warren Buffett and fitness guru Clarence Bass"

Austin Business Journal,  October 3, 2019

International Treasure

Clarence, let me just start out by saying I think you are one of the most important human beings we have on the planet at the moment. You have truly proven that what everyone thinks is not possible, quite surely is. You are more muscular than most people in their 20s. I know, that alone is freaking INSANE.

What is your secret, to that amazing lifetime of muscularity and leanness?

You are truly incredible!!

Hi Matheus:

Careful or I might start believing it; Carol warns against getting a big head.

To answer your query, my secret, if there is one, is always looking for ways to improve; building on success one step at a time. See Outlook Matters--My Story: https://www.cbass.com/outlookmatters.htm

Thank you for your very kind comment.

Clarence

Gift of Inspiration

HELLO MR. BASS! 

I JUST WANTED TO TELL YOU  I USED TO FUMBLE THROUGH THE MUSCLE MAGAZINES AT LEAST 25-30 YEARS AGO AND I'D SEE YOUR FACE ALL THE TIME. I WAS FASCINATED TO SEE YOU SO RIPPED AND HEALTHY LOOKING. YOU WERE THE ORIGINAL OF THE RIPPED GUYS AND YOU INSPIRED ME TREMENDOUSLY TO STAY LEAN.

 I'M 47 YEARS YOUNG NOW AND WILL CONTINUE ON WITH THE LEGACY THAT YOU SHARED WITH THE WORLD.

THANK YOU SIR FOR THE GIFT OF "INSPIRATION."

Regal

Love From Denmark

Hello Clarence:

You are really an idol for me...

I am sure it is true that lifestyle (eating Whole Foods minimally processed and exercising regularly) has kept you at a low body fat your whole life.  I mean, I would be overjoyed, if I could stay at the 10-12 range for my life by following your lifestyle tips. 

Lots of love and support from Denmark!

Konrad Jensen

Hey! from UK

Just been looking through your website while having my coffee on my night shift here in the UK. It's a little after 0240hrs and I've been reading some articles on Vince Gironda and looking through yours and Frank Zane's old photos from back in the day!  I've gotta say bodybuilding and physique has really lost  its way over the years. The Anabolics have completely ruined the physique. Your conditioning was insane Clarence!  I mean you really came into your top form in your 40's. You gotta love the fact you've held your condition all these years. Phenomenal physique and really inspiring.  I think a lean athletic physique is the way to go for sure! I'm 38 and seeing the levels of conditioning you achieved after the age of 40 is something to behold.  Thanks for the inspiration, and thanks for the great content on your site also!

Good day to you Sir!

Andy  Bellion

 Pharmacist Thank You

I just want to drop you a short note of thanks.  I'm a recently retired 70 year old pharmacist.  I first started reading your work way back in my old drugstore days when I could steal a few minutes and goof off.  Thanks to you I'm still working out with high intensity and strength training a few times a week as you recommend.  And I have read all of your books.  I cannot tell you how valuable your writing have been to me during my career as a working pharmacist.  I knew I could always count on your recommendations as being well researched and up to date.  I hope I (we) have helped some patients along the way.  So I just wanted to thank you and wish you continued Health and a long life.  I am sure there are many more people just like me that feel the same way that I do.

With respect,
Bill Neunder

Perspective of a Minimalist

Clarence:  At 59, I have spent my life making things simple.  I have maintained a 5'10" 160 lb physique for 40 years.  I take no medicine, supplements or vitamins and have a simple diet of fruit, vegetables, oats, rice, peanut butter, yogurt and chicken.

My workouts are just under 40 minutes 5 days a week and I use a minimal of equipment along with bodyweight exercises (sit-ups, ab wheel roll outs, pull ups, push ups and dips).  I have good muscularity and flexibility along with a resting pulse of 50 and average BP of 120/65.

I have been inspired by Jack LaLanne and Clarence Bass.  My success in marriage, family and business is in many ways attributable to my fitness and I can credit my fitness to my Spartan home gym and simple exercise regime.

Thanks for being an inspiration and like Jack Lalanne before you a national treasure.

David Helms, Dallas, Texas

From Florida

Good afternoon.  Nice to meet you via e-mail.  I have followed your career in bodybuilding and bought one of your books, Challenge Yourself.  The book was very well written and informative. 

You truly provide superb scientific information and wonderful practical knowledge to us the readers and followers.  At 58 and heading toward the "golden years," it is very reassuring to have all the information you provide.  It is also inspiring to see that with hard work and sensible eating patterns you can be healthy and strong later in life.

I am incorporating many of the principles you discuss, such as walking.  I have two medium sized dogs and except for lightning, I walk them every day for two to three miles, do one intense cardiovascular sessions a week and two full body sessions of weightlifting a week, with one being traditional lifting and the other being more circuit training. 

I am very grateful for all your advice on training, nutrition and a healthy lifestyle. I hope our paths cross one day so I can personally thank you for your excellent work.

Oliver J. Langstadt, Miami, Florida

From Australia

Thanks for sharing the article on how exercise slows down muscle aging and strengthens the immune system.  I've just turned 55 and having read this has motivated me more than ever to exercise hard and eat well.  I really look forward to reading the informative articles you put up on your website each month and I particularly like your take on each article.  You will always be my go to man for health and fitness.  Keep up the awesome work!
Andrew Jewell  

 From England

I just want to say thank you for the fabulous information and site you have put together. I saw you in the magazines I read as a kid. I've just turned 30, strong but fat after getting married, having kids, getting lazy, etc.  You have motivated me to be my best self again and reduce my weight. I always wanted abs like yours and seeing what you have accomplished way down the line I have no excuses in my 30s.

You are a true representative of physical culture, longevity and wisdom.  A far cry from the chemical Frankenstein bodies of today's bodybuilding.  You show balance, health and provide a positive role model to may young and old.  Thank you.

Joe Charnley

                              Health Markers 

Excellent Health marker tests Clarence, most people bury their heads and would rather not know at any age.  This attitude also allows one to continue along a destructive health/lifestyle regime as in "if I am not aware of any problems I do not have to solve them."
     Regarding the testosterone reading of 788 at 80 years of age without TRT - Incredible.
     During the early 80s I used to see your advertisements and articles in Muscle & Fitness and bypass them for more heavily built stars of the day (Arnold and Sergio) but having gotten older (51) I realize how much wisdom your methods hold and can aid a person to attain good health and well-being for life.
     Good health to you and yours.

Best Wishes from England.           

**********

 Better than Amazon Prime!!

Hello Carol,

Thank you very much for the very fast delivery of your book Lean for Life. And it was autographed to boot!! Also, many thanks for the bonus book The Lean Advantage 3. That was unexpected and much appreciated.

But I have a confession to make. I have known about Clarence Bass for many years. I am a lifelong fitness exerciser using just barbells and a stationary bicycles at home (69 years old, 6’4”, 190). I have been VERY impressed by Clarence in the muscle magazines over the years, but unfortunately never went to your website.

Well, several weeks ago I was linked to your website through another article I was reading on the internet. Boy, was I SHOCKED!! I actually think I lost consciousness for several minutes. It was just too much for my aging, feeble brain to absorb all at once.

I immediately went to my Amazon Prime account and ordered brand new copies of “Take Charge, Great Expectations, Challenge Yourself and Ripped 1” (I have the receipts to prove it!!). I noticed your website ordering section, but of course I thought “it will take weeks for the books to arrive.” Now I know better. And to think I could have probably had those books autographed really hurts!! (I generally “jump around” a book looking for relevant sections of most interest to me - I eventually read the entire book). I have also been on your website every single day since I discovered it.

Clarence looks “beyond comprehension.” He looks better at 80 than anyone else at 20. I feel like crying when I look at his pictures. It hurts that bad!!

By the way, you should not let Clarence bask in all the glory. You look VERY HOT!! yourself. I know there are millions of men all over the world just waiting for your bikini photos to appear on this website, YOUNG LADY!!!!

Thanks again,

Jim Lee, Alexandria, VA

           From Germany

 Recently I was giving a public lecture on the beneficial health effects of high intensity training. When addressing the "anti-aging effect" I showed the audience the pictures of you from your homepage (that show you at 30, 40 etc.). The people simply could not believe their eyes. Even when I continued talking about the next aspect of my lecture, someone asked me to switch back to the slide with your photos and asked if such a condition was really possible. How is that for a compliment!

All the best and many greetings from Germany

Prof. Dr. Jürgen Giessing, University of Koblenz-Landau,
Germany, author of High Intensity Training (HIT), 2016
 

[Your expanded training pictorial] is incredible! You have likely done something with your life that no one else in the world has ever done or probably ever will. Through unfailing life-long consistency and careful documentation you have shown what high intensity exercise, endurance, and excellent nutrition can contribute to the maintenance of maximum human physical function throughout the life span. Your life is a superb case study that will be probably be referred to forever. Congratulations, and thanks!”

 Waneen Spirduso, Professor Emeritus, The University of Texas at Austin, co-author of Physical Dimensions of Aging

 [Your expanded training pictorial] is a dramatic example of what exercise and nutrition and healthy living can accomplish over a life span. Thank you for including me. I look forward to sharing this with my students.

Edward F. Coyle, Ph.D., Professor and Director of the Human Performance Laboratory, Department of Kinesiology & Health Education, University of Texas at Austin

 The quote from [Dr. Spirduso] is well deserved... She is the recognized world renowned expert. Besides your physical accomplishments, you are the only one I know who has not seen their career diminish in their late 60's and 70's. Your latest book shows you are at an even higher level than before.

Richard A. Winett, Ph.D., Heilig Meyers Professor of Psychology, Director, Center for Research in Health Behavior, Director of Clinical Science Training, Virginia Tech

New articles in November: