The 33-year-old Canadian bodybuilder Iain Valliere sent shockwaves through the bodybuilding community with the unexpected announcement of his retirement in 2023. However, his departure from competitive bodybuilding didn’t mark the end of his journey with the iron; in fact, it was just the beginning of a new chapter.
Despite officially stepping away from the competitive stage, Valliere remained deeply connected to his passion for bodybuilding, evident in his continued commitment to maintaining a formidable physique. His social media presence, especially on Instagram, became a canvas for showcasing his ongoing dedication.
From retirement to resilience: Iain Valliere’s humorous take on his physique
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In a humorous Instagram post, Valliere shared a picture with a caption that reflected his light-hearted approach to the transition. In a witty caption, “Must be a Good angle, I swear I’m much skinnier than this looks.” Accompanying a mirror selfie, Valliere humorously downplayed his muscular appearance, adding a touch of humility to his larger-than-life physique. The image stands as a testament to his prowess, strength, and resilience, captivating fans worldwide.
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The brother-in-law of five-time Mr. Olympia Chris Bumstead chose not to view retirement as a time for relaxation but instead embarked on a journey to rediscover his lost passion for track and field. Surprising many, Valliere showcased his versatility by exploring various interests. Alongside assisting Cbum in his training sessions before the Olympia, the duo even ventured to Turkey for a hair transplant. Despite undergoing surgery and taking a break from workouts, Valliere maintained his super-jacked physique, leaving everyone in awe.
Days after bidding farewell to competitive bodybuilding, Valliere found himself back on the track fields, this time accompanied by his wife Melissa Valliere. He shared glimpses of his rekindled interest, updating fans on his return to the tracks after a hiatus since 2007. In an insightful interview post-retirement, the bodybuilding icon opened up about the sacrifices made throughout his career.
The challenges he faced during his bodybuilding career
Valliere shared the challenges faced during his early days in the sport and the hurdles encountered during competitions. His reflections shed light on the determination that fueled his journey, making every struggle worth the triumphs in the end. Former pro bodybuilder Fouad Abiad recently hosted ‘Bro Chat‘ on his YouTube channel, featuring Iain Valliere, Mike Van Wyck & Paul Lauzon. Valliere opened up about the sacrifices made during his bodybuilding career, highlighting missed life moments.
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He emphasized the strict routine during the Olympia weekend, expressing the difficulty in enjoying simple pleasures. Reflecting on retirement, Valliere stressed the realization of missed opportunities and the importance of being present. Abiad added that this awareness often only comes post-retirement, highlighting the unique challenges faced by bodybuilders.
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WATCH THIS STORY: Fresh Out Of Retirement Ian Valliere Struggles To Reconnect As A Track And Field Athlete