Victor Martinez explain why he thinks bodybuilding will never be in the Olympics… and his reason might not be what you expect
In the latest episode of The Generation Iron Podcast, hosts Victor Martinez, Edwin Mejia Jr., and Vlad Yudin get into the Olympic spirit by debating whether or not bodybuilding can ever be featured as an Olympic sport. Other topics discussed include the struggles of camaraderie in bodybuilding today, Nick Walker’s confidence (or is it cockiness?), and weighing the benefits of HIIT vs regular cardio.
As most already know, this week has been overtaken by the 2024 Olympics in Paris as news and coverage has become the sports focus across the world. While certain strength sports are present, such as Olympic weightlifting, bodybuilding has been consistently left in the dust when it comes to appearing at the Olympic events.
Victor and the GI crew use the hype surrounding the world class event to discuss the history of bodybuilding and the Olympics and whether or not it could ever actually become an Olympic sport. While that is the main topic of discussion, it’s not the only items on the docket this week. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect in this episode:
- HIIT vs traditional cardio for fitness newcomers – which is best?
- Is Nick Walker’s confidence also his downfall?
- Could bodybuilding ever be an Olympic sport?
- Victor compares today’s bodybuilding camaraderie to past eras – is there more animosity?
- Have bodybuilding superstars lost all privacy when training in the gym?
We recap these topics and more below. Let’s dive in!
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Should Bodybuilding Be in the Olympics?
Vlad Yudin posed an intriguing question: Should bodybuilding be included in the Olympics? Victor expressed skepticism about this possibility, but not exactly for the reason you may expect.
Originally, Joe Weider claimed that he would one day get bodybuilding to be accepted as an Olympic sport. This ultimately never happened. Many believe the number one reason is the association and culture of steroids in bodybuilding. The Olympics are very strict with drug testing – and pro bodybuilding as we know it would never be able to pass those tests.
Victor Martinez, however, believes there is another non-drug related reason that bodybuilding will never be at the Olympics. He claims that the sport is too subjective to fit the criteria of a typical Olympic sport.
While other Olympic sports like gymnastics are based on scores from a panel of judges, bodybuilding lacks clear technical criteria, making it more akin to a beauty pageant. In fact, Victor Martinez directly states that bodybuilding is a beauty pageant more than a standard sport.
Victor Martinez believes that if a sport like bodybuilding were to be included into the Olympics, then traditional beauty pageants such as Miss America should also be included. They both feature the same kind of subjective judgements.
That being said, Victor Martinez is a huge fan of the Olympics and excited about the current games.
Fan Critique: The Role of Carbs in a Bodybuilder’s Diet
A fan critiqued Victor Martinez’s previous advice on diet, particularly his recommendation to include rice in a muscle-building diet. The fan argued that rice is a simple carbohydrate that quickly turns into sugar, suggesting that vegetables, being high in fiber, are a better alternative to keep one full for longer.
Victor responded by emphasizing that the fan’s critique likely comes from someone who is not a competitive bodybuilder. He stressed that complex carbs like rice are crucial for athletes aiming to perform at optimal levels. Victor shared his personal experience, stating that the worst results he ever had were when he tried to carb-load using vegetables only. He reiterated, “Nobody is carbing up on vegetables,” underscoring that for serious athletes, complex carbohydrates are essential for energy and performance.
Fan Question: HIIT vs. Regular Cardio for Rapid Weight Loss
Another fan asked whether High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) or regular cardio is better for rapid weight loss. The fan mentioned not having trained for over nine years, prompting Victor to advise against jumping straight into HIIT.
He recommended starting with 30 minutes of regular cardio, ideally on an empty stomach and in the morning. As fitness improves, one can gradually increase the duration and intensity. Once the fan reaches a weight closer to 250 pounds, they could then consider incorporating HIIT. Victor’s approach emphasizes building a sustainable routine to avoid injury and discouragement.
Nick Walker’s Bold Olympia Claim
The episode also featured a discussion on Nick Walker’s recent statement about his determination to be #1 at this year’s Mr. Olympia. Victor interpreted Walker’s declaration as confidence rather than arrogance, noting that such hype is essential for generating excitement among fans.
He argued that if everyone were humble, the competition would lack the electricity that rivalries and bold claims bring. Walker, with his consistently improving physique, backs his words with actions, making him a formidable contender and justifying his confidence.
Animosity Among Bodybuilders: Then vs. Now
Another hot topic was Nick Walker’s observation that there is more animosity among bodybuilders today compared to the 90s. Victor agreed, attributing the increased hostility to the rise of social media.
He noted that bodybuilders today are more isolated, training privately and engaging online rather than in person. Social media amplifies this animosity as people constantly post, react, and critique each other’s physiques and statements. This digital culture of calling each other out has heightened the sense of rivalry.
Training Privacy: The Case of Ramon Dino
The hosts also discussed the issue of bodybuilding celebrities being recorded while training. Vlad and Ed shared an experience from Brazil where Ramon Dino, a prominent Brazilian bodybuilder, was surrounded and recorded by fans in the gym.
Victor did not see this as a significant problem, arguing that it comes with the territory of being a public figure. He acknowledged that fan enthusiasm is crucial for a bodybuilder’s success, especially in countries like Brazil, where bodybuilding enjoys a passionate following.
Wrap Up
The latest episode of the Generation Iron Podcast provided a rich discussion on various aspects of bodybuilding, from diet and training to competition dynamics and celebrity culture. Victor Martinez, Edwin Mejia Jr., and Vlad Yudin continue to offer valuable insights and engage with their audience, making the podcast a must-listen for anyone interested in the bodybuilding world. Whether addressing fan critiques or debating the inclusion of bodybuilding in the Olympics, the hosts bring a blend of expertise, personal experience, and engaging commentary to every episode.
You can watch the latest episode of the podcast above. And don’t forget to check back every week for new episodes on the Generation Iron Fitness Network or wherever podcasts are downloaded!
