Some pro bodybuilders have been caught photoshopping their physiques on social media… is this a serious problem?
In the latest episode of the Generation Iron Podcast, hosts Victor Martinez, Edwin Mejia Jr., Ehsan Farahi, and Vlad Yudin deliver another unfiltered and honest conversation about the current state of bodybuilding and fitness culture. They touch on everything from supplement scams and the explosion of new divisions in bodybuilding, to the ethics of photoshopping physiques and realistic paths to achieving pro status.
Here’s a brief overview of the topics discussed in this week’s episode of the Generation Iron Podcast:
- How old is too old to become a pro bodybuilder?
- Victor Martinez on the wide spread bait and switch with bodybuilding supplements.
- Should there be a Men’s Fit Model division?
- The major line crossed when pro bodybuilders photoshop their physiques.
You can watch the full episode above. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of the major talking points and straight-to-the-point insight.
This week’s episode of the podcast is brought to you by Transparent Labs. If you would like to try Transparent Labs Grass-Fed Protein for yourself, save 10% OFF using code GENIRON10.
For a limited time, Transparent Labs is giving away a FREE Protein Starter Kit with every Grass-Fed Protein subscription! This kit includes a shaker bottle and a variety pack of 5 single-serving protein pouches in their top flavors, so you can find your favorite.
FAN QUESTION: Can a 34-Year-Old Still Go Pro in Bodybuilding?
The episode kicks off with a standout fan question from a 34-year-old who works long hours at a lumber company—16-hour days during the week and 12 hours on Saturdays. Despite the grueling schedule, he manages to hit the gym regularly, doing a full-body machine circuit of 14 exercises and a 30-minute treadmill session. He weighs 190 pounds at 5’5” and wants to gain more muscle mass. His big question: is he too old to chase a pro card in bodybuilding, and what should he be doing differently?
Victor Martinez’s Advice:
Victor Martinez is immediately impressed by the fan’s dedication, saying, “This man does more in one day than most people do in a month.” He makes it clear: 34 is not too old to go pro—if anything, it’s the perfect time if the passion is there.
From a training perspective, Victor suggests restructuring the workout entirely. Rather than doing 14 different exercises in one session, the fan should focus on just 3 to 4 exercises per workout, targeting one or two muscle groups. This brings more intensity to each set, promoting real muscle growth instead of general fatigue.
He also advises increasing the repetition count, going beyond 10 reps per set to push hypertrophy further.
Supplement & Diet Tips:
- Vitamin C (3,000 mg daily) for recovery.
- Simple, consistent meals: 8–10 ounces of chicken breast, paired with rice or potatoes.
- Carb drink post-workout for replenishment and better recovery.
The core of Victor’s message is simple: simplify the routine, increase focus, and eat smart. And no—34 is definitely not too old to start competing.
Arnold Schwarzenegger and the Supplement Industry: Are Pre-Workout Labels Lying?
The team shifts gears to a recent statement from Arnold Schwarzenegger claiming that most pre-workout supplements are inaccurately labeled. This matches up with a separate exposé by fitness influencer Goob, who revealed that many creatine gummies have little to no creatine at all.
The Creatine Gummy Scam:
Victor Martinez doesn’t mince words: creatine gummies are mostly useless. Even if labeled correctly, the actual dose per gummy is too small to have any real benefit unless you’re eating half the bottle a day.
Ehsan goes deeper, explaining that many companies are cutting corners by sourcing low-quality creatine from China to maximize profits. The profit-over-quality model leads to poor results for consumers—especially athletes who rely on consistency and purity in their supplementation.
Vlad Raises the FDA Question:
Why isn’t the FDA cracking down on these issues? Victor and Ehsan clarify that the FDA only regulates safety and legality—not the efficacy of ingredients. As long as the label doesn’t contain banned or dangerous substances, and the ingredients listed aren’t completely fabricated, companies stay within legal boundaries.
Victor points out a common trend: many supplement brands start out strong with high-quality ingredients, then cut costs over time once they’ve earned consumer trust. It’s brand bait-and-switch at its finest.
RELATED: Best Creatine Supplements For Bulking & Muscle Growth of 2025
The Rise of New Bodybuilding Divisions: Are We Watering Down the Sport?
The crew reacts to a controversial statement by top coach Hany Rambod, who suggested creating a new men’s division, similar to the recently announced Fit Model category. But Victor and Ehsan aren’t buying it.
Too Many Divisions?
Victor Martinez says adding more divisions is only about increasing participation to drive revenue. It’s less about advancing the sport and more about getting as many people involved—and paying entry fees—as possible. He compares it to a “DEI for bodybuilding”, where inclusivity is used as a money-making tool.
Ehsan joins in the sarcasm, joking about adding a “Most Normal” division for casual gym-goers. The consensus: we already have Men’s Physique, Classic Physique, and Open Bodybuilding. Adding more just dilutes the standard of elite competition.
Victor argues that bodybuilding should remain about showcasing the best physiques in the world. “If everyone qualifies, then what’s special about being a pro?” he asks.
The Photoshop Debate: When Is It Going Too Far?
One of the most heated topics in the episode is whether it’s ever okay for bodybuilders—or fitness influencers in general—to photoshop their physiques for social media or magazine covers.
False Advertising vs. Fraud:
Victor Martinez says it straight: Photoshopping is false advertising. This was especially rampant in the ’90s, when magazine covers were heavily edited. While it’s not immoral in itself, it becomes a serious issue when it’s used to sell products or create unrealistic expectations, especially in competitive sports.
Edwin brings up another level of concern: when Photoshopped images are used to sell diet plans, supplements, or weight loss products, it borders on fraud. Consumers are being misled into believing results that were never actually achieved. That’s not just unethical—it could be legally questionable.
Victor draws a clear line: bodybuilding is supposed to be a sport based on real achievement. Faking your results—even outside of competition—goes against the spirit of the sport.
Wrap Up
This episode of the Generation Iron Podcast delivers a lot of hard truths in a no-nonsense tone. From the false promises of supplement companies to the ever-growing number of competition divisions, the message from Victor Martinez and the team is clear:
- Keep your training focused and intense.
- Don’t fall for marketing hype—read labels and know what you’re putting into your body.
- Pursue bodybuilding for the right reasons, not just clout or shortcuts.
- And above all, stay authentic—in your photos, in your training, and in how you present yourself to the world.
For anyone in the fitness world—whether you’re just starting out or aiming for a pro card—this episode offers a wake-up call. Quality, integrity, and passion still matter.
You can watch the full episode at the top of this article. And make sure to keep checking back every week for new episodes on the Generation Iron Fitness Network or wherever you download podcasts!
