How I Gained 50 Pounds of Muscle in 18 Months #390
Sep 7, 2025
In a remarkable journey, one individual transformed from 242 to 293 lbs of muscle in just 18 months. They share insights on high-skill training techniques and the power of targeted volume. Discover the simplicity of 'Groundhog Day' nutrition for consistent progress. The mindset shift that enhances training results becomes crucial as well. Learn how overcoming a knee injury led to newfound biomechanics knowledge, reshaping fitness approaches forever. This practical blueprint helps anyone serious about muscle growth.
45:14
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question_answer ANECDOTE
Early Obsession And First Stages
Ben Pakulski recounts starting bodybuilding and stepping on stage at 237–242 pounds early in his career.
He explains rapid progress from a 160 lb teenager to a pro within years and the obsession that drove him.
question_answer ANECDOTE
The 50‑Pound Transformation
Ben describes going from 242 to about 292 pounds of stage weight in ~18 months between contests.
He frames that jump as deliberate and central to the episode's lessons.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Train To Your Recoverable Volume
Push toward your maximum recoverable volume based on recovery, not ego.
Increase training volume only as your nutrition and recovery allow to grow more muscle.
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Episode Shownotes: Ben Pakulski opens the vault on his insane 18-month jump from 242 to 293 lbs of stage-ready muscle. He breaks down exactly how he trained (high-skill execution, targeted volume, real failure), how he ate (predictable “Groundhog Day” nutrition), and how he recovered to handle more work than most think possible. You’ll hear the mindset that fueled it, discipline, aggression in a safe container, and ruthless focus, and the biomechanics lessons that changed everything after a career-threatening knee issue. If you want a practical blueprint for serious size without guesswork, this is it. 5 Bullet Points:
The 18-month strategy behind 50 lbs of muscle
Why one perfect exercise beats five mediocre ones
How to set volume by recovery, not ego
Groundhog Day nutrition for predictable progress
The mindset shift that multiplies training results
Ready for the next level? Join 200,000 men in their prime, reading our weekly newsletter: http://muscleintelligence.com/newsletter Unlock Your Full Muscle Building Potential With Our Complete Training Guides: https://go.muscleintelligence.com/bodypart/ Hypertrophy Execution Mastery: The most comprehensive MI40 muscle-building program EVER! https://hypertrophymastery.com/ About Ben Ben Pakulski is the Chief Performance Officer to elite executives, successful entrepreneurs, and top athletes.With over 25 years of experience, he coaches high achievers to build the physical, psychological, and metabolic resilience required to lead at the highest level. As the creator of the Muscle Intelligence framework, Ben specializes in aligning biology and behavior to drive sustained peak performance. His mission is to redefine what’s possible for people in their prime and push the boundaries of human potential.
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