Jay Cutler on the Ideal Age for Bodybuilding prime
Is There a Sweet Spot for Bodybuilders to Hit Their Prime?
Bodybuilding legend Jay Cutler, known for maintaining an elite physique in retirement, remains actively engaged with the fitness world. Through social media and a successful YouTube channel, he shares valuable tips and insights. In a recent episode of Jaywalking, Cutler touched on the upcoming Arnold Classic and discussed the prime years for bodybuilders.
A 4x Mr. Olympia champion (2006-2010) and 6x runner-up, Cutler remains one of the sport’s greats. Standing at 5’9”, he built an iconic career, including an epic rivalry with 8x Mr. Olympia Ronnie Coleman. Even in retirement, Cutler continues to stay in remarkable shape, proving his dedication to fitness and the sport.
“I won at 33, Ronnie won at 34. Derek won pretty young. I don’t know Hadi’s age. Big Ramy won in his 30s. Brandon Curry, I mean Shawn Rhoden won in his 40s. So, what does that tell you? Samson’s 39 I think.”
Jay Cutler Highlights the Shift in Bodybuilding Eras
Cutler discussed how bodybuilding has evolved over time. In his era, competitors often peaked later, but he believes many now hit their prime in their 30s, possibly influenced by social media.
“I feel like it’s a little different now because you have to have a cross between social media in bodybuilding, in a sense. Unless you just put in countless hours.”
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Jay Cutler Identifies the Prime Age for Bodybuilders
Reflecting on his journey, Cutler noted that while he won his first Olympia at 33, many athletes during his time peaked earlier and retired young.
“You look at the guys now and they get better in their 30s than in their 20s. When we were coming up, everyone seemed super young. Gaspari, Shawn Ray, Eddie Robinson, even Haney. He was 22 when he won the first one and retired at 31.”
Cutler highlighted Derek Lunsford as one of the young stars of bodybuilding heading into the Arnold Classic.
“It’s kind of like the youth vs. the elder. I retired at 40. No insult to anyone because 40 is still super young. Derek is kind of the young gun heading into the Arnold.”
Arnold Classic Set to Showcase Top Bodybuilding Talent
The Arnold Classic in March will host some of the biggest stars in bodybuilding. Reigning Olympia champion Samson Dauda is set to face off against former champion Lunsford in what’s expected to be the show’s main event. Cutler also highlighted other contenders, including Akim Williams, in what promises to be a stacked lineup.
“I feel like there’s some really good talent in there. There’s a lot of good guys in that show. Akim’s in there, who did well at the end of the season.
Have you seen Carlos Thomas Jr. lately? He looks really good. He might still need a little time.”
