Four-time Mr. Olympia Jay Cutler hasn’t competed in over a decade. However, at 49, the former champion is getting into the best shape possible. The bodybuilding veteran is taking on the fit-at-50 challenge and uploaded a video giving some vital ab training tips. While most people talk about which exercises one chooses for training abs, Cutler tackled a different aspect of core training. 

At 49, Jay Cutler has to train smart instead of simply pushing through tough workouts. While he has maintained a great physique for the last decade, at his age, recovery becomes a hurdle. Hence, Cutler made the video to explain the ideal rep range to get Olympia-worthy washboard abs. He also talked about core training frequency.

How Jay Cutler built Olympia-winning abs

While talking about ab workouts, most people focus on the movements and the training intensity. It’s also a norm to perform a lot of reps while training abs. However, the three-time Arnold Classic winner has a more conservative approach to core training. Instead of performing too many reps or choosing complex movements, the 49-year-old sticks to the basics.

In the video, the former Mr. Olympia said he “usually trains abs every other day,” instead of every day. “Especially when I’m training for a competition,” added the bodybuilding icon. Cutler then explains that the goal of core training should not be like training other body parts. He also explains abs won’t show unless the body fat percentage is low, but there is an “ultimate” rep range.

“What is the ultimate rep range for your abs? I always focus on 15 to 20 repetitions,” Cutler revealed in the video. He doesn’t perform more than 20 reps because “you’re trying to condition the abs, not necessarily build that muscle.” Hence while doing exercises like crunches, leg raises, etc. he always focuses on 15 to 20 reps, and the rest is about a disciplined diet. 

What does the former champion include in his diet?

During his prime, the man who defeated Ronnie Coleman spent millions on his diet. In fact, Jay Cutler’s grocery haul used to be insane. Cutler once revealed that he bought whole cows at a time. According to the 49-year-old, he bought an entire cow and asked his butcher to break it down into different cuts. He would also have over 20 egg whites for breakfast.

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While he might not be having as much food for the fit-at-50- challenge, Jay Cutler is not changing the structure. When the bodybuilding icon started his 12-week transformation, he posted an old video of him having breakfast. Cutler named it the Breakfast of Champions and said he was going back to having the same breakfast for his 12-week transformation.

What did you think about Jay Cutler’s “ultimate” rep range for building Olympia-worthy abs? Do you plan to apply his tips? Let us know in the comments.

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