Sergio Oliva Jr. looks back to the moment he lost in Men’s Open to 212 competitor Shaun Clarida
In the fourth episode of GI Conversation With Sergio Oliva Jr., bodybuilding legend Sergio Oliva Jr. delves into his personal journey and insights on modern bodybuilding. The episode explores how training philosophies have evolved, the role of equipment, competing across divisions, and what he learned from losing to Shaun Clarida in Men’s Open. This conversation sheds light on Sergio’s mindset as he returns to a competitive landscape that has shifted significantly since his last appearance.
Training with Dorian Yates: Balancing Old-School Methods with Modern Bodybuilding
Vlad Yudin kicks off the episode by asking Sergio Oliva Jr. about his training experience with Dorian Yates, six-time Mr. Olympia. Known for his “blood and guts” training philosophy, Yates’ approach focuses on high-intensity, low-volume workouts that push athletes to their limits. Sergio acknowledges the value in Yates’ old-school techniques, yet he notes that some aspects of Dorian’s philosophy have become less relevant in today’s bodybuilding.
Dorian Yates, for instance, didn’t prioritize glute training because it was not emphasized in his competitive era. Today, however, conditioning and symmetry require bodybuilders to train glutes extensively, underscoring how competition standards have shifted.
Sergio Oliva Jr. also highlights the importance of recognizing individual differences in body types. His own, taller frame demanded an adaptation to Yates’ routines. He explains that following the training regimen of a former champion does not guarantee replicating their success, as bodybuilding requires athletes to find what works for their unique physique. In the end, what Sergio values most from training with Yates is not the bodybuilding technique but Yates’ perspective on life and happiness beyond the sport—a balance that Sergio aspires to emulate as he carves out his career.
Machines vs. Free Weights: Debunking Bodybuilding Myths
The conversation shifts to a long-standing debate in bodybuilding: the use of machines versus free weights. While many old-school bodybuilders argue that free weights are essential for building muscle mass and strength, Sergio Oliva Jr. sees this perspective as outdated. Comparing the debate to outdated medical practices, Sergio suggests that machines, when used correctly, can yield impressive results and should not be dismissed. He believes that mastering machines can help athletes target muscle groups effectively and enhance performance.
According to Sergio, the anti-machine stance in bodybuilding is rooted in tradition rather than science, and he advises younger bodybuilders to embrace modern equipment for its potential benefits. His approach is open-minded, encouraging athletes to explore new methods rather than adhering strictly to conventional wisdom.
Overcoming Criticism: The Lesson from Shaun Clarida
The episode takes an introspective turn as Vlad Yudin brings up Sergio Oliva Jr.’s experience at the Legion Pro, where he lost to Shaun Clarida, a Men’s 212 competitor often seen as the “underdog” due to his smaller physique. Sergio recalls the frustration he felt after the loss, not because Clarida won, but because he had already struggled with diet-related setbacks from a previous competition.
Despite his initial disappointment, Sergio commends Clarida for his dedication and admits that he learned an invaluable lesson from the experience. Watching Clarida’s performance taught him that true championship-level bodybuilding goes beyond weight class or division—it’s about discipline, preparation, and focus.
Sergio Oliva Jr. also sees the experience as a wake-up call, encouraging him to improve his posing and stamina during routines. In his view, critiques targeting his loss to a “smaller competitor” miss the point of bodybuilding: the discipline to bring your best package to the stage. Sergio recognizes that Clarida’s win is proof of the importance of preparation and execution, regardless of one’s weight or stature. This perspective has motivated Sergio to refine his approach, focusing on building a physique that aligns with his competitive aspirations.
Wrap Up
Episode 4 of GI Conversation With Sergio Oliva Jr. showcases Sergio’s balanced perspective on bodybuilding, offering fans and followers a look into his journey of personal and professional growth. By training with Yates, he learned the importance of adapting techniques to fit his unique body, while his experience with Shaun Clarida taught him to respect and learn from all competitors, regardless of size or division. As he looks forward to future competitions, Sergio’s confidence in winning the Olympia shines through, fueled by the knowledge that this generation provides him with a unique opportunity to fulfill his dreams.
With a refreshed mindset and a carefully crafted game plan, Sergio is committed to overcoming the obstacles that previously held him back. His honesty about setbacks and renewed focus on self-improvement make this episode both inspiring and insightful, offering valuable lessons for aspiring bodybuilders and fans of the sport alike.
