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Killer Instinct Shoulder Workout

For IFBB Physique Pro Matt Christianer, the best plan of attack is really no plan at all.

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  • 45 min

  • 5

  • Yes

IFBB Pro Matt Christianer
IFBB Pro Matt Christianer

Even before Matt Christianer became the first-ever IFBB Physique Pro in 2011, the fitness model knew the importance of staying ripped. “I’ve been walking around at 6% body fat since 2009,” Christianer says. ”Someone will get sick and I’ll get a phone call at 10 p.m. asking me to shoot tomorrow.”

It’s hard to believe anyone could maintain that level of shape by feel, but Christianer is attuned to his body’s needs.

“I do what I consider instinctive training,” Christianer says. “When I enter the gym and feel strong, I hit my weak points, and when I show up and feel weak, I hit my stronger muscles. “Life is unexpected; I don’t like to follow any plan that’s set in stone.”

BOUNCE BACK: Christianer broke his hip and leg in a 2001 car accident. A month later, he was training his upper body in a wheelchair.

Christianer’s Top 3 Competition Tips

1. FIND THE ONE: If hiring a coach, pick one and follow him to the T. Don’t combine advice from different sources.

2. DON’T RUSH: Take 16 to 20 weeks to prepare for a show; you should already be stage-ready two to three weeks before a contest.

3. HAVE FUN: Being onstage is an energy exchange. Take the crowd’s energy and project it back to the judges.

Matt’s Stats

AGE: 31
HEIGHT: 5’8″
WEIGHT: 180 lbs
RESIDENCE: West Hollywood, CA
WEBSITE: christianertrainingrevolution.com
SPONSORS: Six Pack Fitness, Faith for Fit Meals, myoatmeal.com

The shoulder workout below is an example of one of Christianer’s “instinctive” routines. Do the last set of each move to failure.

Routine

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The Workout

Exercise
Equipment
Sets
Reps
Rest
Exercise 2 of 5

Bus Driver

Equipment
Weight Plates
Sets
5
Reps
12
Rest
1 min
Bring a weight plate to eye level and twist to each side as if you’re turning a wheel.
Exercise 3 of 5

Military Press

Equipment
Barbell
Sets
5
Reps
8-12
Rest
1 min
How to
Perform on a leg press machine. Kneel where your butt would normally be. Place hands wide and high on the platform and press. Spotter is necessary.
Exercise 5 of 5

Machine Reverse Flye

Equipment
Sets
6
Reps
10-15
Rest
1 min
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