Mind Pump: Raw Fitness Truth

1765: Bodybuilding Vs. Powerlifting With Ben Pollack

Mar 7, 2022

Ben Pollack, a powerlifter turned bodybuilder, shares his unique insights on transitioning between the two sports. He discusses the mental and physical challenges of shifting focus and the distinct training methodologies involved. Ben emphasizes the importance of recovery and monitoring health, especially with regard to dietary changes and anabolic use. His personal journey reveals how each discipline can learn from the other, while also exploring the role of sled training and isometrics for improved performance.

01:13:50

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Episode guests

Ben Pollack

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Episode notes

Intro

3min

From Powerlifting to Bodybuilding

6min

Transitioning from Powerlifting to Bodybuilding

27min

Navigating Strength Sports: Bodybuilding vs. Powerlifting

18min

Unpacking Health Consequences of Anabolic Use in Bodybuilding

5min

Unpacking Strength Sports

11min

Exploring Strength Training Techniques: From Sled Work to Isometrics

5min

In this episode Sal, Adam & Justin speak with powerlifter turned bodybuilder, Ben Pollack about the differences between the two sports.

Why did he switch from powerlifting to the sport of bodybuilding? (2:47)
What was the attraction to bodybuilding? (5:37)
Bodybuilding is objective, right? (6:24)
The mental challenge of switching focus in training. (8:42)
The differences in the physique between the two lifters. (16:36)
Did he feel he had a head start switching sports? (22:32)
Do the stereotypes hold for bodybuilders? (24:32)
Why MOST bodybuilders should be deadlifting. (27:06)
What exercises, from bodybuilding, will he continue to incorporate into his training? (29:46)
The contrast in nutrition transitioning from powerlifting to bodybuilding. (33:27)
What did his PRs look like at his lowest and highest weight? (40:44)
Why he loves the Smith Machine for chest work. (42:00)
What can powerlifters learn from bodybuilders and vice versa? (44:21)
The differences in drug use between the two sports. (46:20)
Does he have any favorite anabolics? Least favorites? (51:14)
The importance of monitoring your health. (54:35)
Has the weight gain affected his sleep? (56:31)
Has this change made an impact on his business? Any hate? (59:49)
Which training style would be more conducive for longevity? (1:01:13)
What does the future look like for Ben? (1:06:19)
Becoming more open-minded, the benefits of sled training, and isometrics. (1:08:04)