Victor Martinez answers why weight lifters, bodybuilders, and other strength athletes seem to get pointy elbows over time
The latest episode of the Generation Iron Podcast, hosted by Victor Martinez, Edwin Mejia Jr., Ehsan Farahi, and Vlad Yudin, dives into a wide range of topics – including the recent IFBB Pro “three year rule” and the increasing length of the Olympia competition broadcast. Most notably, Victor Martinez helps to clear the mystery behind why so many weight lifters seem to get pointy elbows over time.
Here’s a quick overview of what to expect in this week’s episode of the podcast:
- Pointy elbows in weightlifting: Recognizing and addressing physical changes, like calcium buildup in elbows, to prevent long-term damage.
- Prostate Health: How to stay proactive when it comes to your prostate in the world of bodybuilding and in general as men age.
- New Pro Card Rule: What does Victor Martinez think of the latest “three year rule” that will effect pro card status?
- Olympia Restructuring: With even more divisions being added into the sport, how can the Olympia weekend become less unwieldy in length?
- Olympian bodybuilders and coaches: Do all pro bodybuilders at the Olympia level need a coach in order to succeed?
You can watch the full episode of the Generation Iron Podcast above. And for a in-detail recap of the episode keep reading below. Let’s dive in!
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FAN QUESTION 1: Why Do Weightlifters Develop Pointy Elbows with Age?
A fan asked why elbows seem to become more pointed as weightlifters age. Victor Martinez shared a personal anecdote about his conversations with Chris Dickerson, who experienced elbow pain during exercises like skull crushers and dips. While Dickerson didn’t seek medical advice, Victor took it a step further by consulting doctors.
The likely culprit? Calcium buildup and inflammation caused by years of repetitive stress. This highlights the inevitable wear and tear that comes with bodybuilding. Victor emphasized the importance of recognizing early warning signs, such as elbow pain, and adapting training methods to prevent further damage. Using elbow sleeves is one preventive measure, but the key takeaway is to listen to your body and prioritize longevity in the sport.
FAN QUESTION 2: What Causes Prostate Enlargement?
Prostate enlargement, typically affecting men over 40, was the next fan inquiry. Victor Martinez explained the role of testosterone in maintaining prostate health. As testosterone converts into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), the prostate essentially becomes a magnet for it. Using humor, Victor likened the prostate’s relationship with DHT to a “cheap hooker in VIP” who should be kept out.
For bodybuilders, especially those using anabolic steroids, the risk is heightened due to increased testosterone levels leading to more DHT conversion. Supplements like B7 or Propecia can block DHT and slow prostate enlargement, but genetics ultimately determine individual susceptibility. Victor stressed the importance of regular checkups for all men, particularly after turning 40, to address this common issue proactively.
IFBB Pro Three-Year Rule Controversy
A hot topic in the bodybuilding community is the new IFBB Pro rule requiring athletes to compete or pay their pro card fees at least once every three years to retain their status. Previously, pro cards were permanent, allowing bodybuilders to take extended breaks without consequence.
Victor Martinez acknowledged that while the rule may seem restrictive, a pro card itself doesn’t inherently guarantee business opportunities. Success in bodybuilding comes from building a personal brand, showcasing transformations, and maintaining a strong presence. For athletes who aren’t actively competing, the pro card holds little practical value.
The hosts debated the fairness of this rule for up-and-coming athletes who may need to take a hiatus due to life circumstances. With fees exceeding $200 annually, the financial burden can be significant, especially for those not earning prize money. While professional golf has similar dues, bodybuilders earn significantly less, leading Victor to jokingly compare IFBB fees to a bowling club membership.
Olympia Restructuring: Should There Be an Elimination Round?
The Olympia, the pinnacle of professional bodybuilding, has faced criticism for its lengthy format. With more athletes qualifying and additional divisions being introduced, the event is becoming increasingly unwieldy. In response, IFBB Pro Head Judge Steve Weinberger suggested there were loose talks of a preliminary elimination round to streamline the competition.
Victor Martinez supported the idea of making the Olympia shorter, noting that the current two-day structure might not be sustainable. Ehsan proposed an alternative: extending the pro shows across the five days already allocated for the Amateur Olympia. This would make each night more manageable for audiences and competitors alike.
While no official changes have been announced, the hosts agreed that restructuring is necessary to preserve the event’s appeal as it continues to grow.
Shawn Ray vs. Chris Aceto: A Battle of Words
Shawn Ray’s penchant for stirring controversy came under scrutiny as the hosts dissected his recent comments about Chris Aceto. Ray criticized Aceto’s involvement with Derek Lunsford, suggesting Lunsford didn’t need a coach to win the Olympia again. Aceto fired back, pointing out Ray’s lack of Olympia titles and highlighting his own track record of coaching champions.
Victor Martinez advised ignoring Ray’s inflammatory remarks, noting that engaging with him only fuels the drama. However, the conversation shifted to the broader question of whether top-level bodybuilders truly need coaches. Victor Martinez argued that coaching is not mandatory for Olympian bodybuilders and depends on the individual athlete’s needs.
In contrast, Ehsan maintained that even elite athletes benefit from the guidance of a coach, citing examples like Hadi Choopan, whose physique improved significantly under professional coaching. He also notes that every other professional sport has coaches for pro athletes.
Wrap Up
With a mix of humor, experience, and honest debate, the hosts continue to provide a platform for bodybuilding enthusiasts to stay informed and engaged. Discussing a mix of current events and functional information in bodybuilding and fitness – this episode provides a wide variety of information for lovers of the sport.
As the sport evolves, the Generation Iron Podcast remains a vital source for navigating its challenges and celebrating its achievements. You can watch the full episode at the top of this article. And make sure to check back every week for new episodes on the Generation Iron Fitness Network or wherever podcasts are downloaded!
