Barbells vs Dumbbells: 22.5-Inch Bicep Strong Bodybuilding Legend Picks Safety Over Ego for Building Muscles

Jay Cutler is a bodybuilding phenomenon. The former champion’s career was illustrious, and he became the only champion who reclaimed the title from the man who defeated him. Jay hasn’t competed since 2013, but the 49-year-old maintains a magnificent physique. Cutler has been bodybuilding since his teens and possesses a wealth of knowledge about working out.

The four-time champion posted a video on Instagram where he talked about bench pressing. Cutler gave his opinion on dumbbells vs. barbells in order to maximize muscle growth. While stating his preference, Cutler told everyone to leave their egos behind when bench pressing.

Jay Cutler explained why he prefers using dumbbells

Mr. Olympia title holder posted a short video on Instagram with the caption, “Barbells VS Dumbbells for Bench Press: Which one is Best? We leave our egos at the Door.” In the video, Cutler explained while people often view the barbell bench press as the benchmark of strength, it may not be optimal for muscle growth. “It’s a lot safer in the long run.”, said Cutler.

The bodybuilding icon said, “We want to focus on more movements to build the chest.” He also explained how one must focus on getting eight to twelve repetitions with the weight they’re lifting if they want to build muscle. Cutler then stated what he prefers about the dumbbell bench press.

“I stick more to dumbbell pressing. It’s a nice isolateral movement. You can definitely get more benefit from the contraction.” said the fan-favorite bodybuilder. However, Jay also said another aspect that makes the exercise better than its barbell counterpart.

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While Cutler didn’t directly explain why using dumbbells would be safer, one can make an educated guess from his use of the word, isolateral. Using dumbbells during a bench press allows for a better range of motion and could help to fix imbalances, which makes them safer.

The training philosophy of the bodybuilding legend

When Cutler was competing, he went up against the arguable GOAT of bodybuilding, Ronnie Coleman. While Coleman lifted as much weight as possible, Jay had a different approach. Cutler rarely changed his workout routine and didn’t try new movements unless required.

Although he could lift quite heavy, Cutler didn’t do it regularly. Jay tried not to increase the weight unless he could do at least eight reps. However, he made sure not to go past the 12-rep threshold.

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Jay is a bodybuilding legend. He is a former Mr. Olympia and Arnold Classic winner. For Jay, it was about maximizing each workout, and he picked each exercise accordingly. There was no space for ego.