“See Them Deteriorate Away”: Ridiculously Fit In His 50s, Mike O’Hearn Narrates the Story of 20-Year-Olds Dreaming to Become Mr. Olympia Without Proper Guidance

Despite being in his 50s, veteran bodybuilder, actor, and powerlifter Mike O’Hearn is known for his shredded physique. As evident in his appearances, O’Hearn has a really high muscle mass and low-fat percentage. The Generation Iron actor regularly posts videos on health and fitness as a means to educate his audience on the nuances of what the sport of bodybuilding demands and entails. 

O’Hearn has previously expressed his concern regarding the abuse of PEDs by youth athletes. In a video with Frank Sepe, he talked about the downsides of using these compounds and the importance of getting bloodwork to decide what is necessary or harmful for the body in the long run. 

Mike O’Hearn explains the ideal way to run peptides

O’Hearn (54) recommended not using peptide compounds for sports athletes while indicating the misplaced expectations that youngsters have cultivated. Every passionate gym-goer aspires to be Mr. Olympia at least once. However, passion soon turns to obsession, and many resort to quick fixes. This, aided by a lack of knowledge of bodily needs, leads to young athletes abusing steroids to the point that their body stops functioning properly. 

“They came in going I’m going to be Mr. Olympia and I look at them and I go…ooh..ooh there’s not much of a foundation there, you’re not complete. I wouldn’t run that and then they just run the stuff,” said O’Hearn.

Continuing the discussion, the seven-time Fitness Model of the year added, “Then I just see them deteriorate away and then they get off of it and then they’re done by mid-20s and I’m like…dang…I wish somebody would have told you or you would have listened.” 

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O’Hearn suggested waiting for a few years before making a conscious decision. “…Give it 5 years of just consistent training, consistent nutrition, and then if you decide to go down that road, go down that road.” 

Is Mike O’Hearn himself using any compounds? 

Mike O’Hearn’s monster build has seen him often accused of being an enhanced athlete. Over the years, while he has been questioned about his natty status multiple times, the Gladiator maintains a calm and collected nature while responding to such allegations. Back in November 2022, YouTuber Tanner Shuck also asked O’Hearn the same question. O’Hearn politely denied the allegation once again and insisted to take the “long road” instead of shortcuts.

“To the guys who want to do this for a long period of time, you got to go back, and you can say whatever you want about me, but I’ve been here since the 80s. And I’m still here today. So there’s a long road to take. It’s a tough road. But for those that really want it, do the long road won’t do the short term.” 

While O’Hearn’s natty status continues to divide the room, the fact remains that he is the hardest worker in the room. Following a strict diet and workout for so many years is a testament to his athleticism and strong work ethic.

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