In a sense, going to the gym is the beginning, and it is your actions there that determine who you are. Lifting weights is not merely a stereotype of being a “meathead”; bodybuilding and powerlifting are almost like scientific disciplines, particularly in the case of bodybuilding. Bodybuilding is not just about picking up and putting down weights; it is a science, as mentioned before. This is because as bodybuilders, we adhere to specific repetition ranges, maintain proper form, control muscle tension, follow strict diets, and aim to build as much muscle through hypertrophy.
Bodybuilders typically do not have a predetermined plan when they go to the gym. Instead, they adjust their workouts to avoid working on muscles that are still sore in order to prevent injury and overtraining, which can hinder gains in lean muscle mass. Unlike power lifters, bodybuilders prioritize increasing muscle mass on their bodies rather than solely focusing on strength. To achieve this, they perform sets of 8-12 repetitions with moderate to heavy weights, creating endurance and maintaining constant tension in the muscles for the desired “pump.” The pump is a sensation of intense blood flow and muscle engorgement that bodybuilders strive for during their exercise sessions. It helps bring essential nutrients and assists in breaking down the muscles, which is crucial for muscle growth. Bodybuilders strictly adhere to their diets and often make sacrifices in their social lives, even avoiding small indulgences like birthday cake. Their diets usually consist of seven meals per day consumed every two hours. These meals primarily include either 8 ounces of chicken or 90% lean ground beef, a cup of vegetables, and either two cups of brown rice or 10 ounces of sweet potatoes.
Powerlifting and bodybuilding are two distinct approaches to fitness. The main differences between them lie in their diet and training methods. Powerlifters prioritize demonstrating their strength and ego at the gym by lifting heavy weights. Their immense strength enables them to potentially confront bears in the wild. This exceptional strength is achieved through a training technique involving 3-6 reps of heavy weights, unlike bodybuilders who typically aim for 8-12 reps. Powerlifters focus on lifting extremely heavy weights, sometimes exceeding 600lbs, and maximizing repetitions instead of building lean muscle mass like bodybuilders do. This intense weightlifting engages different muscle fibers and leads to unique adaptations in the body.
In terms of diet, powerlifters strive to consume as many calories as possible without being concerned about the nutritional value of the food they eat – a sharp contrast to bodybuilders who strictly follow diets year-round for a sculpted physique. While some individuals participate in both powerlifting and bodybuilding, one fact remains certain: Ronnie Coleman is still acknowledged as the champion.
Despite their differences, bodybuilding and powerlifting share a common criticism: the use of steroids. Both sports have faced disapproval due to this aspect. The topic of steroids is highly debatable, yet it is crucial to recognize that steroids alone do not drive individuals to wake up at 5 am or eat until midnight. They also do not compel one to give their utmost effort in the gym. What often goes unnoticed is the dedication and hard work that surpasses the influence of drugs.
On the left, there is Guy Cisternino, a bodybuilder, and on the right, there is Derrick Poundstone, a powerlifter.
