Victor Martinez reacts to Jay Cutler’s $50,000 bodybuilding grocery budget, how antidepressants interact with bodybuilding, and why there is no excuse for a rich person to be unfit
The latest episode of the Generation Iron Podcast, hosted by the legendary bodybuilder Victor Martinez, alongside Ehsan Farahi, Edwin Mejia Jr., and Vlad Yudin, delves into a range of topics that are both engaging and controversial this week. Most notably, Victor Martinez reacts to Jay Cutler’s $50k/year bodybuilding grocery bill and shares how to stay motivated towards fitness during stressful times.
In this episode, Victor and the GI crew addressed some fan responses, tackled complex issues surrounding mental health and performance-enhancing drugs, shared tips on staying motivated during tough times, and reacted to some of the more surprising comments from bodybuilding legends like Jay Cutler. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect this week:
- How do antidepressants and Benzodiazepines affect the bodybuilding lifestyle?
- Victor Martinez shares tips for staying motivated during stressful times
- Do bodybuilders really spend $50,000 per year on groceries?
- Is there any excuse for a rich person to be out of shape?
Here’s a detailed recap of the episode, optimized for those looking to get a deep dive into the world of bodybuilding.
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A Fan Clashes With Victor Martinez: Is Bodybuilding a Sport or a Beauty Pageant?
A fan recently challenged Victor Martinez’s assertion that bodybuilding is not a sport but more akin to a beauty pageant. This fan took issue specifically with the idea that Men’s Open bodybuilding—widely regarded as the pinnacle of the sport—could be reduced to just a display of aesthetics, likening it to the less physically demanding Men’s Physique division.
Victor Martinez responded with a mix of humor and seriousness. He speculated that the fan must be a die-hard supporter of the Men’s Open division, given how passionately they dismissed the Men’s Physique category. But Victor didn’t shy away from reiterating his stance, explaining that while bodybuilding as a discipline lays the foundation for many sports, the competitions themselves don’t require the kind of athleticism seen in other sports. The competition, particularly in divisions like Men’s Open, is more about displaying the results of rigorous training and strict dieting rather than performing athletic feats.
Victor was quick to clarify that he did not intend to downplay the immense effort and dedication required in bodybuilding. He acknowledged that bodybuilding demands a level of fitness and discipline that forms the bedrock of all sports. However, the act of competing—where the focus is on physique presentation rather than athletic performance—aligns more with a pageant than a traditional sport. This nuanced view sparked a lively discussion among fans, reflecting the ongoing debate about where bodybuilding fits within the broader sporting landscape.
The Impact of Antidepressants and Benzodiazepines on Strength and Muscle Building
The next segment of the podcast delved into a more serious topic as a fan asked Victor to share his thoughts on how antidepressants and benzodiazepines (often called benzos) affect strength and muscle building. These substances are commonly prescribed to manage anxiety, stress, and sleep disorders, but they also carry significant implications for those engaged in intense physical training.
Victor Martinez started by discussing antidepressants, noting that their primary benefit in the context of bodybuilding might be improved sleep. Many bodybuilders struggle with sleep due to the stimulants found in pre-workout supplements, and antidepressants could help counteract this issue. However, Victor pointed out that there are safer, more direct ways to improve sleep without resorting to antidepressants, such as using sleep-specific supplements.
When it came to benzodiazepines, Victor was more cautious. He acknowledged that while benzos might be helpful for those dealing with severe anxiety or sleep issues, they are often abused. This recreational use can be particularly detrimental for bodybuilders, as dependency on these drugs can lead to a downward spiral, ultimately compromising both mental health and physical performance.
Victor emphasized the importance of using these substances only under medical supervision and highlighted that there are always safer alternatives available. The discussion served as a reminder of the delicate balance required when managing mental health in the high-pressure world of bodybuilding.
Victor Martinez’s Tips for Overcoming Stress and Struggles Without Losing Motivation
In a segment that resonated with many listeners, Victor Martinez shared his personal strategies for staying motivated during difficult times—a topic that is universally relevant, not just for bodybuilders but for anyone facing challenges in their fitness journey.
Victor started by acknowledging a universal truth: there is no such thing as a perfect bodybuilding prep or fitness plan. Life inevitably throws curveballs, bringing stress and struggles that can derail even the best-laid plans. However, Victor urged listeners not to run away from these challenges. Avoidance only makes the problems grow, leading to a greater likelihood of completely abandoning training or dieting.
Instead, Victor encouraged facing stress head-on. He shared how working out can serve as an incredible stress reliever, offering a temporary escape from life’s pressures while also providing a sense of accomplishment. By reframing exercise as a tool for stress management rather than an additional burden, individuals can use their workouts to combat anxiety and build resilience.
Victor also highlighted the importance of having a supportive coach. A good coach isn’t just there to provide training plans—they can also offer emotional support and motivation during tough times. Building a strong relationship with your coach can make a significant difference when life gets in the way of your fitness goals.
Vlad Yudin added to the discussion by warning against the dangers of turning to substances like alcohol or drugs to cope with stress. While these might offer temporary relief, they ultimately lead to a downward spiral. Instead, he echoed Victor’s advice to channel that energy into the gym, where the rewards are far more sustainable.
Ultimately, Victor’s message was clear: embrace the pain and struggle, use it as fuel to push harder in the gym, and trust that facing challenges directly will lead to growth, both physically and mentally.
Jay Cutler’s $50k Food Budget: Is This The Bodybuilding Norm?
A particularly interesting topic in this episode was Jay Cutler’s revelation that he used to spend $50,000 annually on groceries during his competitive years. This was in the early 2000s, a time when the dollar had more purchasing power than it does today. The hosts were curious to hear Victor’s take on such a hefty grocery bill.
Victor started by acknowledging that $50,000 is indeed a substantial amount, suggesting that Jay was likely purchasing higher-end food products rather than the most economical options. However, Victor pointed out that the quality of certain foods can greatly impact a bodybuilder’s ability to stick to a diet. For instance, cheaper cuts of steak might be less palatable, making it harder to enjoy meals and easier to stray from the nutrition plan. In contrast, foods like chicken often have minimal quality differences between price ranges, allowing for more budget-friendly options without sacrificing nutritional value.
Victor offered some practical advice for those looking to manage their grocery bills while still maintaining a high-quality diet. He recommended shopping at Trader Joe’s for affordable chicken and even suggested considering a job at Whole Foods for those who need to keep costs down, as employees receive discounts on their groceries.
Additionally, Victor shared a personal tip: whenever he’s in upstate New York or Pennsylvania, he makes it a point to visit Amish farms, where he can buy high-quality, natural foods at lower prices. This approach not only saves money but also ensures that he’s consuming the best possible products to support his bodybuilding goals.
Rich But Unhealthy: The $300 Million Indian Wedding Controversy
The final topic of the episode touched on a viral story about an Indian wedding that allegedly cost between $300-600 million. The groom, however, received criticism for being out of shape despite his immense wealth. Fans and critics alike questioned how someone with such resources could neglect their health.
Victor Martinez weighed in on the debate, cautioning listeners against making assumptions about someone’s health based solely on their appearance. He acknowledged that there could be underlying medical conditions preventing the individual from maintaining a fit physique. However, if the person is otherwise healthy and simply neglects fitness, Victor saw no excuse.
With wealth comes access to the best resources—personal chefs, dietitians, and trainers—making it easier for wealthy individuals to prioritize their health and fitness. Victor argued that, with these resources at one’s disposal, there’s even more reason to maintain a healthy lifestyle. His comments sparked a broader conversation about the responsibilities that come with privilege, particularly in relation to health and fitness.
Wrap Up
The Generation Iron Podcast episode was packed with insightful discussions that ranged from the philosophical to the practical. Victor Martinez and his co-hosts provided listeners with a deep dive into the complexities of bodybuilding, addressing fan questions, and offering valuable tips on how to stay motivated through tough times.
Whether you’re a seasoned bodybuilder or simply someone interested in fitness, this episode offered something for everyone, reinforcing the idea that bodybuilding is as much about mental fortitude as it is about physical strength.
You can watch the full episode above. And don’t forget to check back every week for new episodes on the Generation Iron Fitness Network or wherever podcasts are downloaded!
