Jeff Seid addresses the notion of cheating in all-natural bodybuilding leagues
In the second episode of GI Conversation With Jeff Seid, Vlad Yudin continues his deep dive into the career and mindset of Jeff Seid, one of bodybuilding’s most recognized figures for being one of the youngest athletes to earn a pro card. From discussing his social media strategies to his experience in natural bodybuilding and opinions on the sport’s evolution, the conversation offers valuable insights into Seid’s journey and his vision for the future of fitness. Most notably, Jeff Seid answers whether or not he was concerned of bodybuilders cheating drug tests at the 2024 Natural Olympia.
Addressing Cheating in Natural Competitions
When asked if he was concerned about competitors cheating in natural bodybuilding, Jeff Seid expressed confidence in the INBA/PNBA’s rigorous testing protocols. This was a big reason why he wanted to switch to this division.
During his time competing at in the IFBB Pro, his decision to stay natural put him up against other untested athletes who could have the edge on him from using PEDs. At first Seid thought he can outwork and overcome this imbalance, but after several years of underperforming – he began to feel like he was slamming against a wall he couldn’t overcome.
The INDBA/PNBA employs WADA-approved tests, the same used in the Olympics, and also has a “wall of shame” to publicly name and shame athletes caught cheating. Seid believes these measures act as a strong deterrent, ensuring a level playing field.
At the very least, the chance of someone using steroids in an all-natural bodybuilding competition is still far less than an untested league like the IFBB Pro. So he prefers those odds for himself at this stage in his life.
Sustaining a Strong Brand in a Crowded Industry
Even during his hiatus from competition, Jeff Seid maintained his status as a household name in bodybuilding. When asked how he achieved this, Seid attributed his success to timing and originality. He explained that when he began competing and leveraging social media, the landscape was far less crowded, giving him an edge. Today, he emphasized, standing out requires a combination of creativity and high-quality content.
“You can’t just copy what everyone else is doing,” Seid advised. “You have to be unique. And now, the production quality has to be top-notch—good cameras, lighting, and audio are essential.”
Jeff Seid also highlighted the importance of being present across multiple platforms. He pointed out how easy it is to repurpose content for different social media channels, maximizing reach and engagement.
A Temporary Disappearance
At one point, Jeff Seid took an extended break from social media, leading to wild rumors—including claims that he had died. He explained that his absence coincided with a period of dirty bulking during the COVID-19 pandemic, during which he gained significant weight. Known for his shredded physique, Seid felt uncomfortable sharing this phase often with his audience.
“I didn’t want to come back looking too massive,” he admitted. “So I went on a five-month cut to get ready for my comeback.”
While the bulking phase allowed him to experiment with size, he regretted the toll it took on his health, particularly his blood pressure. Reflecting on the experience, he vowed never to dirty bulk again, calling it a waste of time due to the inevitable muscle loss during the cutting process.
Conquering Natural Bodybuilding
Jeff Seid’s return to competition this year was nothing short of extraordinary. He not only earned his pro card but also won the Natural Olympia in his first year competing in the INBA/PNBA. This rapid success disrupted the league, with some long-time competitors expressing frustration.
Vlad Yudin asked Seid about the differences between competing in the IFBB Pro and the INBA/PNBA. Beyond the drug testing, Seid noted a stark contrast in the backstage atmosphere.
Jeff Seid noted that the big difference came from the vibes backstage. In the natural leagues, Seid felt that there seemed to be more camaraderie. Where as in the IFBB Pro, it’s very serious, and there’s a lot of tension. Everyone is staying in their own zone in order to focus on winning.
He also described feeling more confident competing in a league where all athletes are guaranteed to be natural. While he respected the talent in the IFBB Pro, he acknowledged that competing against enhanced athletes often left him at a disadvantage.
Navigating the New Era of Social Media
With social media now saturated with fitness influencers, Jeff Seid reflected on the challenges of standing out in today’s landscape. He noted the increasing prevalence of cameras and tripods in gyms, a stark contrast to the environment when he first started.
“You can only see so many tripods and setups before it gets annoying,” he joked, explaining that he prefers training at a gym with fewer influencers.
Despite the saturation, Seid remains optimistic about the growth of fitness content, noting that it provides valuable inspiration and education for the next generation.
Respect for Fellow Competitors
When asked about influencers he respects, Jeff Seid was diplomatic, emphasizing his admiration for the fitness community as a whole. However, he singled out Chris Bumstead, the reigning Classic Physique Mr. Olympia, as a standout figure.
“Chris Bumstead kicks ass,” Seid stated, praising Bumstead’s achievements and influence. He also commented on Bumstead’s recent foray into the Men’s Open division at the Prague Pro, agreeing with the judges’ decision to award Martin Fitzwater the win.
“It would have disrupted the entire structure of the sport if Bumstead had won Men’s Open,” Seid explained. “Men’s Open athletes are on another level, and it wouldn’t make sense for a Classic Physique competitor to surpass them.”
Wrap Up
Episode two of GI Conversation With Jeff Seid offers a compelling look at how Seid has evolved as an athlete and a public figure. From building a resilient brand to navigating the nuances of natural bodybuilding, Seid continues to inspire with his dedication and insights.
As the series progresses, fans can look forward to more revelations about Seid’s strategies, philosophies, and aspirations. This episode reinforces his position as a trailblazer in bodybuilding, carving a path that emphasizes authenticity, health, and longevity.
