Barbell Shrugged The Path to IFBB Pro w/ Aaron Starker, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash #814
Sep 10, 2025
Aaron Straker, a Licensed Primary Sports Nutritionist and cohost of the Eat, Train, Prosper podcast, shares his unique journey to becoming an IFBB Pro. He delves into the challenges of competing internationally, including maintaining nutrition while navigating cultural differences. Straker sheds light on bodybuilding myths, defends the natural approach, and discusses his transition to testosterone replacement therapy. He emphasizes the importance of sound nutrition and community support in achieving fitness goals, sharing personal narratives that inspire discipline and perseverance.
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Planned Natural Build Turned TRT Breakthrough
- Aaron planned a long natural build, froze sperm as a contingency, then started TRT after reaching his goal physique.
- Six weeks on TRT produced his dream physique and left him searching for new goals.
Hernia Surgery And First-Time Pro Card Win
- Aaron developed a hernia in Thailand, had emergency surgery, then resumed prep later, delaying his season.
- He placed second at a regional and then won a major pro-qualifier in Taiwan to earn his pro card.
Pack Simple Contest Food For Travel
- Pack simple, reliable contest food when traveling: cream of rice, rice cakes, peanut butter, and plain steamed chicken and rice.
- Use local convenience stores like Asian 7-Elevens to source minimal items you can't bring.