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#53 - Steroids, Stage Time, & Social Media Lies...w/Zach Pulkinen
Manage episode 474856168 series 3553809
Ever wondered what really happens behind the scenes in the fitness industry? In this raw, unfiltered conversation with trainer Zach Pulkinen, we peel back the curtain on bodybuilding competitions, steroid use, and the dramatic evolution of gym culture over the past decades!
Zach takes us through his journey from military base gyms where he grew up as a child, and everyone was focused on hard work, to today's social media-dominated fitness landscape. His perspective on competing is refreshingly honest, describing the brutal reality of prep that involves months of discipline for just minutes on stage, substantial financial investments, and potential health consequences that many influencers never discuss!
We tackle the taboo topic of performance-enhancing drugs with surprising candor. Rather than the typical denial or glorification, Zach offers balanced insights on responsible approaches to testosterone supplementation, the dangers of young athletes taking extreme protocols, and why blood work is non-negotiable. "These kids are running cycles that I've never even touched!" he reveals, highlighting how social media has driven increasingly dangerous trends!
For listeners navigating the healthy road of fitness, this episode delivers practical wisdom on creating sustainable approaches that allow for life balance. We discuss how supplement quality varies dramatically across the industry, why women often train more effectively than men, and how finding your fitness path doesn't require competition or extreme measures.
Join us as we prove that sustainable, healthy fitness is possible at any age when you cut through the industry noise and focus on what actually works.
To follow Zach on his journey, here is his instagram: @zach_pulkinen
For a cleaner-healthier supplement brand visit: @unmatchedsupps
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Chapters
1. Introduction to Zach's Fitness Journey (00:00:00)
2. Old School Gym Culture vs Modern Fitness (00:10:18)
3. The Reality of Bodybuilding Competitions (00:21:58)
4. Getting Real About Steroids (00:40:31)
5. Creating a Fitness Plan at 40 (00:57:55)
6. Quality Supplements and Industry Insights (01:11:33)
7. Setting Goals and Accountability (01:25:57)
58 episodes
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