While we delve deep into the world of sports, it’s no secret that the field holds many risks and dangers to it. Bodybuilding, for instance, has built a reputation for bringing the hard work and sacrifices behind a title-winning physique to the limelight. Yet, as veteran bodybuilders like Dorian Yates have pointed out, it holds a darker side.

In an interview on the YouTube channel Jay Vincent Fitness, Yates opened up on the hardships of a bodybuilder. The sport went beyond lifting heavy weights and following a strict diet. Here’s what the 60-year-old veteran had to say.

Dorian Yates’ reflections on bodybuilding through the ages

Weighing in at about 250 pounds and joining the league of the biggest bodybuilders across generations, Yates was the highlight of the bodybuilding golden era. Having the legendary Lee Haney as his top on-stage rival, Yates showcased his potential with six Mr. Olympia titles. But after years of competing and retiring due to injuries, Yates has been vocal about the other side of bodybuilding.

The short video addressed the dark side of bodybuilding. Citing the exception of Ronnie Coleman, the interviewer asked Yates about his thoughts on older bodybuilders being “banged up”. Since many of them, including Yates, retired due to physical injuries, not all of them have been able to transition back to a lifestyle akin to his.

Read More: “He’s a Bully”: 6x Mr. Olympia Dorian Yates Nearly Fought His Idol Lee Haney Onstage After Receiving False Information About the Legend

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To this, Yates had a fitting explanation that revealed a grim side of the sport. Competitive bodybuilding was taxing. It took a lot for an aspirant to get the kind of cut and definition that the stage demanded. In fact, as Yates suggested, “We’re really pushing it to the extremes here.” Hence, the sport always had a certain amount of risk associated with it. Take Yates’ own humble beginnings, for instance.

From the streets to stage: Yates’ story of stardom

Dorian Yates never had it easy. The former Mr. Olympia began his journey when he went to prison when he was 18 years old and was ridden homeless later. But that’s where the trajectory of his life changed.

Yates gradually trained for bodybuilding and idolized Lee Haney. Even during his prison sentence, before he began serious training, he was bigger compared to everyone else around. This affirmed his sense of direction toward the sport. Now, as the 60-year-old practices yoga to keep up, his rags-to-riches story inspires others to gain a sense of purpose.

What do you make of Yates’ claims? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.

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