Tony Pearson speaks candidly about steroid and insulin use during his bodybuilding era while also reflecting on what he would change if he had a time machine
In the third episode of A Conversation With Tony Pearson, host Vlad Yudin continues his engaging and insightful discussion with former professional bodybuilder Tony Pearson. This episode delves into the use of performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) in bodybuilding, the health consciousness of bodybuilders, Tony’s training philosophies, and his post-retirement career.
Tony Pearson acknowledges that there has been a rapid rise of PED use as bodybuilding has evolved. But he also notes that PEDs were being used freely during his era as well. He even experienced the early rise of insulin use in the sport (though he always avoided it out of fear for his health).
Looking back at his prime years with the knowledge he has now, Tony Pearson also reflects on what he would do differently if he could go back with the insight he has today. His answer may surprise you! Let’s dive into the conversation below.
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Increased Use of PEDs and Steroids
Tony Pearson believes there is a significant increase in the use of steroids and PEDs in modern bodybuilding compared to his era. Although he doesn’t have specific information from current competitors since he is no longer active in the scene, he can discern this from the way these substances are discussed online and from observing the physiques of contemporary bodybuilders.
He notes that the current emphasis on massive size contrasts with the Golden Era’s focus on definition, leading to a higher reliance on steroids today. While he finds today’s bodybuilders massive size impressive – he can tell at a glance that there is a softness that simply was not there in bodybuilders of his era.
Insulin & Diuretic Use in Bodybuilding
Tony Pearson explains that insulin use only started to emerge towards the end of his career. He chose to stay away from it due to its extreme danger and his lack of trust in its effects. Despite being hungry to win over his fellow competitors – he was always skeptical on trying out untested drugs – even if it could promise him a chance to get ahead.
Tony Pearson also confirms that diuretics were indeed used by bodybuilders in his time, primarily to achieve a dry and shredded look for competitions. However, he emphasizes that bodybuilders tried to avoid relying heavily on these substances. He acknowledges that many of his peers did use diuretics, despite the risks involved.
Modern Trends and Concerns
Vlad Yudin expresses concern about modern bodybuilders using a cocktail of various drugs to achieve bigger physiques. Tony agrees, reiterating that the pursuit of massive size has made the use of multiple drugs almost a necessity. He states that achieving the enormous muscle mass seen today is nearly impossible without chemical assistance.
But with the trend taking hold of the top successful athletes both in competition and on social media – it creates a normalized standard that will influence others to achieve the same effect. This creates a mentality that PED use (and abuse) is a necessary component of bodybuilding. And it can have dire consequences on an entire generation of athletes.
RELATED: Bodybuilders Are Dying – An Investigation Into Modern Bodybuilding, Health, & PED Use
Health Consciousness in the Golden Era
In comparison to the risky drug use of today, Tony Pearson reflects that most bodybuilders during his era were quite health-conscious. They aimed to be large and shredded while also prioritizing good nutrition and overall health. The love for fitness and the health benefits that come with it were integral to their approach to bodybuilding.
Regrets and Reflections
When asked by Vlad Yudin what he would change about his bodybuilding tactics if he could go back in time, Tony Pearson shares that he wouldn’t change much about his career. However, he might have trained a bit lighter and focused more on form to reduce the wear and tear on his body.
While Tony Pearson didn’t take his physique to massive size like some of his peers, he did push his body through some extremes that he is ultimately paying for now. He believes that even with his conservative training style – he could have gone lighter to achieve the same success with more longevity.
Tony Pearson also expresses gratitude for having avoided many of the drugs that were used by other bodybuilders, attributing his avoidance to a fear of those substances. In hindsight, he is thankful he steered clear of them due to their potential health risks.
Gym Etiquette and Hard Work
Tony Pearson expresses his annoyance with gym-goers who make excessive noise while lifting, preferring to channel all the energy from the struggle and pain into the lift itself. This perspective is shaped by his upbringing, which involved arduous tasks such as picking cotton in the fields during his teenage years.
His early life instilled a strong sense of hard work and discipline, which he carried into his bodybuilding career. This discipline and dedication have been key to his success and peace in the sport.
Wrap Up
In episode three of A Conversation With Tony Pearson, viewers gain a deeper understanding of Tony’s views on the evolution of PED use in bodybuilding, the health consciousness of athletes in the Golden Era, and his personal experiences and philosophies. Tony’s reflections on his career, training, and post-retirement activities offer valuable insights into the world of bodybuilding, highlighting the contrasts between past and present practices. As the series continues, fans can look forward to more enlightening discussions with this legendary figure.
You can watch the full episode above. And don’t forget to check back every week for new episodes only on the Generation Iron Fitness Network!
