Phil Heath, one of the most influential bodybuilders in the world (former Mr Olympia from 2011-2017), recently headed to Italy to pay a visit to Panatta headquarters in Apiro, Italy.

Bodybuilding champions are knowledgeable specialists – they have to be in order to reach their goals. Ut whether they’re still competing or retired, they always love to train, test new products and provide feedback on upcoming innovations.

Heath enjoyed his recent visit to Panatta’s modern and efficient factory as it allowed him to speak with company owner Rudy Panatta about the new prototypes in the works. Rudy said Heath’s ideas and suggestions were particularly insightful namely because he switched to bodybuilding after another successful career as a varsity basketball team captain, meaning Heath understands that there are a range of different training needs.

Nowadays, Heath suggests fitness enthusiasts start by learning the basics of functional training – including proper form and technique – both of which are major assets of Panatta equipment.

During his stay, he planned a series of videos where he explains how to use the Panatta equipment and the benefits the range can provide. As a bodybuilder, Heath typically uses the language of pumping, squeezing and tensing to illustrate his training, but after spending time with Rudy, he learned the scientific theory behind why he was feeling what he felt.

Although Panatta’s high-end equipment is biomechanically sound, safe and user-friendly, tips from this calibre of champion will be useful for any fitness enthusiast – at any level – to get the most out of the equipment.

After this summer, Heath will return to Panatta’s headquarters from 2-6 October to shoot his video content about Panatta equipment. The videos will be available online shortly after, but in case you would like a hands-on experience, Heath is attending the Dubai Muscle Show at the Panatta booth – 24-26 November 2023 – where he will be available not just for a meet and greet but also for an equipment try-out!