Victor Martinez reveals all about his use of insulin during his bodybuilding career
The Generation Iron Podcast, hosted by Victor Martinez, Ehsan Farahi, Edwin Mejia Jr., and Vlad Yudin, offers a captivating glimpse into the world of bodybuilding. In a recent episode, the hosts delved into intriguing topic of insulin – and whether or not Victor Martinez used it during his competitive career. Here’s a comprehensive recap of the insightful discussion.
Like it or not, insulin has become a massive part of competitive bodybuilding. Popularized in the late 80s and into the 90s by Milos Sarcev, the powerful but dangerous drug is often used by competitors to help bulk up during the off season. Some bodybuilders bemoan its modern popularity and warn of the health dangers associated with it. Others find it to be just another tool that helps push bodybuilding to the next level of “freak factor.”
In this week’s episode, various topics are discuss such as “out-angling” in bodybuilding photos, mixed couples routines, and the recent criticism of Liver King’s organ diet. However, the highlight of this episode involves Victor Martinez opening up about his insulin use. Let’s dive in.
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Insulin Use in Bodybuilding
One of the fan questions addressed in the podcast was whether Victor Martinez had ever used insulin. Victor candidly admitted to experimenting with insulin, shedding light on its risks and benefits.
Victor Martinez notes that he first heard of insulin in the early 90s. He tells the story of a friend and fellow competitive bodybuilder (who was not named) that wanted to try using the substance. Victor ultimately declined as it was so new he didn’t know what the bigger outcomes may be to his career.
It seems that his caution was warranted. The fellow bodybuilder ended up using the insulin every day as part of his daily testosterone and GH protocol. This led to him becoming very massive – but also gaining a lot of fat. Ultimately, the bodybuilder’s career was upended and he stopped competing because of the experience.
Fast forward to ten years later, with more time and experience of insulin use across the industry, Victor Martinez decided to start using insulin. However, he only used it twice per week for a maximum of 6-8 weeks during his cycle.
Victor Martinez emphasized the importance of caution, highlighting the potential dangers associated with misuse. Martinez recommended a cautious approach, advocating for limited use and proper carbohydrate intake to mitigate risks. The biggest risk of using insulin as a bodybuilder is to take the substance but not have enough food or carbs – sending your body into shock. This can be fatal. This is why Victor strongly suggests that anyone who uses insulin always have extra carbs on the go. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
Ehsan Farahi echoed Martinez’s concerns, emphasizing the perilous nature of insulin compared to other performance-enhancing substances – considering it to be the most dangerous drug used in the sport. He recounted harrowing experiences of individuals suffering severe reactions to insulin, underscoring the need for responsible usage within the bodybuilding community.
RELATED: Samir Bannout – Insulin Works… But It’s Ruining Modern Bodybuilding
Out Angling in Bodybuilding
The discussion then turned to the practice of “out angling” in bodybuilding, where competitors strategically position themselves to appear larger. Martinez explained that this tactic, born out of insecurities and the desire to project a formidable physique, has deep roots in the sport. From professional photoshoots to social media posts, bodybuilders employ various techniques to accentuate their strengths and conceal weaknesses.
Martinez also reminisced about encountering towering figures like Big Ramy and Ronnie Coleman, highlighting the awe-inspiring presence of these legendary bodybuilders.
Expanding on the concept of “out angling,” it’s worth exploring the psychological underpinnings that drive this phenomenon. Martinez’s observation regarding the insecurities prevalent among bodybuilders sheds light on the underlying motivations behind strategic posing techniques.
By delving into the psychology of body image and the relentless pursuit of perfection, the hosts offer a nuanced perspective on the intersection of physical appearance and self-esteem within the bodybuilding subculture. Additionally, recounting personal encounters with towering figures like Big Ramy and Ronnie Coleman adds a personal touch to the discussion, enriching the narrative with vivid anecdotes and firsthand experiences.
The Liver King’s Controversial Diet
Another hot topic tackled by the hosts was the controversial diet of “Liver King,” known for consuming raw organs and testicles. Victor dismissed the trend as a passing fad devoid of substantial health benefits. He attributed Liver King’s adherence to this diet to branding and revenue generation rather than genuine health concerns.
The conversation veered towards potential legal ramifications for promoting such diets, drawing parallels to lawsuits filed against individuals for false advertising in the fitness industry.
Further elaboration on the controversy surrounding Liver King’s diet can provide additional depth to the discussion. Martinez’s dismissal of the trend as a mere marketing ploy underscores the pervasive influence of branding and commercial interests within the fitness industry.
By examining the broader implications of extreme dietary practices and their potential impact on consumer health, the hosts foster a critical dialogue on the ethical responsibilities of fitness influencers and the need for greater transparency in promotional efforts.
Moreover, exploring the legal ramifications of promoting potentially hazardous diets adds a layer of complexity to the conversation, prompting reflection on the accountability of public figures in shaping dietary trends and health narratives.
Wrap Up
The Generation Iron Podcast offers a fascinating glimpse into the inner workings of the bodybuilding world, covering a diverse array of topics with depth and candor. From the perils of performance-enhancing substances to the evolution of posing routines, the hosts provide valuable insights while engaging listeners with captivating anecdotes and expert analysis. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and triumphs within the realm of bodybuilding.
You can watch the full episode above. And make sure to check back every week for new episodes on the Generation Iron Fitness Network or wherever podcasts are downloaded.
