Steve Kuclo opens up about the realities of modern health movements, such as the anti red meat push, and what gets overlooked
In episode three of GI Conversation With Steve Kuclo, Vlad Yudin continues his engaging dialogue with the accomplished bodybuilder, exploring topics such as life after competition, health & wellness, and Kuclo’s evolving approach to health and fitness. This episode highlights Kuclo’s transition into new roles as a father, entrepreneur, and advocate for holistic health, all while maintaining his deep connection to bodybuilding.
It may have been a bit of time since Steve Kuclo last competed on the pro stage in 2022 – and it doesn’t seem like Kuclo has plans to step back on stage anytime in the immediate future. But that doesn’t mean that Kuclo has stepped away from his love of bodybuilding, fitness, and health.
Steve Kuclo now runs a health and wellness business when he’s not taking more focus on being a father. And he still keeps track of the new generation of bodybuilders to see how the future of the sport is moving forward.
In this episode – Steve Kuclo talks about what it would take for him to return to the pro bodybuilding stage and also speaks frankly about the changes in health science for training and nutrition. Are we moving too fast towards new techniques when we should be maintaining tried and true methods? Let’s break it down below.
Life After Competition: A Shift in Focus
When asked about a potential return to the competitive stage, Steve Kuclo reflects on his current priorities. Since last competing in 2022, he has embraced his role as a father, which he describes as an incredibly rewarding experience. Bodybuilding, he explains, is inherently selfish and time-intensive, making it challenging to balance with the responsibilities of family life and launching a new business.
Despite this shift, Kuclo remains connected to bodybuilding, continuing to train regularly and keep the sport close to his heart. He hints at the possibility of competing in the Masters Olympia, recently reintroduced to the IFBB Pro League.
For Steve Kuclo, stepping back on stage would require not just passion but also adequate monetary compensation to justify the physical and mental sacrifices involved. This perspective resonates with many of his contemporaries, who, like Kuclo, now juggle careers, families, and personal commitments alongside their fitness goals.
A New Venture: Upgraded Human Wellness
Steve Kuclo shares his enthusiasm for his new wellness company, Upgraded Human Wellness, which offers a holistic approach to health. Through personalized coaching, lifestyle guidance, and natural supplements, the company aims to address the root causes of health issues rather than relying solely on pharmaceutical solutions.
While Kuclo acknowledges the value of pharmaceuticals in providing relief for certain conditions, he advocates for preventive measures and natural alternatives. By focusing on lifestyle adjustments and addressing underlying problems, his company seeks to empower individuals to improve their overall well-being and achieve lasting results.
Rather than treat the symptoms, Kuclo wants to put more focus on solving the source of the problem. This venture reflects his growing passion for helping others lead healthier lives, both inside and outside the bodybuilding community.
Red Meat, Nutrition, and Longevity
The conversation shifts to the ongoing debate surrounding red meat and its impact on health. Steve Kuclo shares a balanced perspective, noting that red meat can be a valuable part of a healthy diet when consumed in moderation. However, excessive consumption may increase risks of heart disease, cancer, and elevated levels of IGF-1, which, while beneficial for bodybuilding, may not be ideal for long-term health.
Kuclo emphasizes that wellness and longevity require a broader view of nutrition, one that goes beyond traditional bodybuilding norms. He cautions against processed alternatives like “impossible meat” and other synthetic substitutes, which he believes are more harmful due to their chemical makeup. His philosophy is simple: the fewer ingredients in a food, the better it is for your health.
Alcohol and Health: A Risk-Reward Perspective
When asked about alcohol consumption, Steve Kuclo offers a straightforward take. While acknowledging that alcohol is fundamentally a toxin, he views its use as a matter of personal risk versus reward.
For Kuclo, the occasional celebratory drink is fine, but he avoids regular or excessive consumption, prioritizing his health and fitness goals over short-term indulgence. His stance reflects a mindful approach, encouraging moderation while recognizing the social and cultural role of alcohol.
Maintaining a Bodybuilder’s Lifestyle
Despite stepping away from competition, Steve Kuclo remains committed to the bodybuilding lifestyle. Currently weighing 270 pounds, he continues to train rigorously and focus on clean nutrition. His dedication to eating for health and performance rather than indulgence underscores his disciplined mindset.
For Kuclo, food has always been a tool for achieving optimal physical and mental well-being, rather than a source of temporary pleasure. This approach, honed over decades in the sport, has allowed him to maintain impressive size and conditioning even as his priorities have shifted.
Kuclo’s Evolving Philosophy on Health and Fitness
Throughout the episode, Steve Kuclo’s insights reveal a growing emphasis on balance, longevity, and holistic health. His approach has evolved from a laser focus on competition to a broader understanding of wellness that incorporates physical, mental, and emotional well-being. This shift is evident in both his personal habits and his professional endeavors, including his wellness business.
Kuclo’s perspective resonates with the challenges faced by many former competitors as they transition into new phases of life. He exemplifies how athletes can adapt their passion for fitness into sustainable, meaningful pursuits while still honoring their connection to the sport that shaped them.
Wrap Up
Episode three of GI Conversation With Steve Kuclo showcases a multifaceted view of one of bodybuilding’s most respected figures. From his reflections on competition and family life to his innovative approach to wellness, Kuclo’s journey offers inspiration for athletes and fitness enthusiasts alike.
This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in the evolving landscape of bodybuilding and the broader implications of health and longevity. As Kuclo continues to redefine his role within the fitness world, his insights provide valuable lessons on adaptability, discipline, and the pursuit of a balanced life. For fans and aspiring bodybuilders, his story is a powerful reminder that success extends far beyond the competition stage.
