Iron Culture presented by MASS Ep. 249 - The Spirit of Bodybuilding (with Dr. Mike Israetel)
Nov 20, 2023
Dr. Mike Israetel, a sports scientist in bodybuilding, discusses the spirit of bodybuilding in this episode. They talk about the highs and lows of a competitor's journey, the personal growth through criticism, the significance of perseverance, and the motivations behind competing. They also touch on the negative effects of using steroids and the potential use of myostatin inhibitors in bodybuilding.
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Early Prep Failures Fueled A Comeback
- Mike recounts early shows where poor peaking left him carrying water and performing badly on stage.
- Those struggles motivated long-term learning and a decision to pursue a final peak and potentially a pro card.
Contest Prep As Rite Of Passage
- Eric describes bodybuilding as both sport and art that forces deep introspection and identity formation.
- Contest prep acts as a rite of passage that creates emotional highs, lows, and transformative meaning.
Pro Card As Cultural Validation
- Turning pro functions as a cultural stamp that validates long efforts and completes a rite of passage for many competitors.
- The emotional release at becoming pro often includes crying and deep relief.