Jeff Seid opens up about how bodybuilding is extreme and not about health… even natural bodybuilding
The third episode of GI Conversation With Jeff Seid continues to explore the mind and career of one of bodybuilding’s most dynamic figures. Hosted by Vlad Yudin, this installment dives into Jeff Seid’s thoughts on the evolution of Men’s Physique, his training philosophies, and his aspirations for the future. As Seid reflects on his journey, he provides invaluable insights into competing at the top level while maintaining authenticity and discipline.
You can watch the full interview above and make sure to check out our full recap below.
The Evolution of Men’s Physique
When asked about the state of the Men’s Physique division, which was in its infancy during Jeff Seid’s early career, he observed significant changes. Specifically, he noted the increase in muscle mass among competitors over the years. While the division initially showcased lean and athletic physiques, many athletes now resemble Men’s Open or Classic Physique competitors.
Jeff Seid believes that having a weight cap for the division is a good idea to prevent further bloat and physique changes that naturally occur as divisions evolve and athletes try to top one another. He points out that this is a phenomenon that does happen in every division – but to have some sort of guard rails against it is a good thing.
Despite these shifts, Jeff Seid expressed satisfaction with the division’s trajectory and praised Ryan Terry’s win at this year’s Olympia as a positive outcome.
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Bodybuilding: Health vs. Extreme Sport
One of the episode’s most candid moments came when Vlad Yudin asked whether bodybuilding is about health and fitness or an extreme sport. Jeff Seid did not hesitate to classify it as the latter. He highlighted the toll that the sport takes on athletes, from the extreme dieting required to achieve sub-5% body fat to the drug use prevalent at the professional level.
Even natural bodybuilding, Seid pointed out, isn’t always the healthiest pursuit. The physical demands of maintaining competition-level conditioning, combined with restrictive diets, can push the human body to its limits.
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Training and Diet Philosophies
Jeff Seid offered a detailed breakdown of his training and diet regimen, emphasizing how his approach has evolved over time:
- Bulking and Cutting: While Seid experimented with a dirty bulk during the COVID-19 pandemic, he now advocates for clean bulking phases lasting 9-12 months, followed by a 10-12 week cutting phase. His dirty bulk, which led to health issues and significant muscle loss during cutting, taught him the value of a balanced approach.
- Rest and Recovery: Unlike his early days, when he trained relentlessly, Seid now prioritizes rest. “I used to go balls to the wall all the time,” he admitted. “But now, at 30, I can’t train like I did in my early 20s.”
- Cardio: Seid incorporates 40 minutes of cardio daily, often using steady-state sessions on a treadmill or high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on a bike. He emphasized the importance of cardio for achieving ultra-low body fat.
- Diet: Carb cycling forms the foundation of Seid’s diet strategy. High-carb days align with intense training sessions, such as leg days, while low-carb days coincide with rest.
- Training Style: Seid trains to failure and prefers working out alone to maintain shorter rest periods, which he likens to incorporating cardio into his lifting sessions. However, during bulking phases, he extends rest periods to optimize muscle growth.
Advice for Aspiring Influencers
Given his early success in combining bodybuilding with social media, Jeff Seid shared advice for those looking to make their mark in a saturated industry. His key takeaway: don’t wait for opportunities to come to you.
“Reach out to brands and sponsors directly,” he encouraged. “It’s a numbers game—don’t be discouraged by rejection.”
Drawing from his own experience in acting, Seid recounted emailing 100 agents before securing a handful of interviews. The same persistence, he said, applies to securing endorsements and building a social media presence.
Balancing Acting and Bodybuilding
Jeff Seid has dabbled in acting and modeling throughout his career, though his muscular physique has occasionally been a barrier. While he isn’t a “mass monster,” he noted that some roles require a more average build. Despite this, he remains committed to his current size and refuses to downsize for potential opportunities.
As for acting, Seid revealed a renewed focus on competition but left the door open for future projects in the entertainment industry.
What’s Next for Jeff Seid?
Looking ahead, Jeff Seid plans to continue competing in natural bodybuilding, with an eye on the INBA/PNBA’s Asia circuit in April. While he is open to pursuing additional Natural Olympia titles, he’s also evaluating whether achieving multiple championships aligns with his long-term goals.
Interestingly, Seid commented on the IFBB Pro League’s recent introduction of tested shows. While he sees merit in the concept, he believes it inadvertently casts a shadow on untested divisions, implying that they are exclusively for enhanced athletes. For now, Seid remains committed to the transparency and integrity of the INBA/PNBA.
Legacy and Aspirations
At just 30 years old, Jeff Seid has achieved remarkable milestones in bodybuilding. However, he admits to questioning what comes next. Acting offers opportunities for longevity, while bodybuilding remains a sport tied to youth and peak physical condition.
“Do I want to win five Natural Olympia titles in a row?” Seid mused. “Or do I want to make a broader impact in acting and other areas?”
For now, Seid is embracing the journey, whether it leads to more titles, acting roles, or entirely new ventures. Fans will have to stay tuned to see where this multifaceted athlete’s path takes him.
Wrap Up
Episode two of GI Conversation With Jeff Seid offers a deep dive into the evolution of bodybuilding, Seid’s refined training and diet strategies, and his pragmatic approach to building a lasting legacy. As Seid navigates the crossroads of his career, he continues to inspire with his transparency, work ethic, and commitment to both health and excellence. For fans and aspiring bodybuilders alike, his story remains a testament to perseverance and adaptability in an ever-changing industry.
