Uploaded April 2025 | Updated September 2026, 7 hours ago
In this episode of Iron Culture, Eric Helms and Trexler welcome Maddie McConnell, a world champion natural physique athlete, to discuss the current trends in natural bodybuilding, her journey into the sport, and the challenges that come with being a world-class physique competitor. Maddie shares her experiences transitioning from a general fitness enthusiast to a physique athlete, the significance of her recent achievements, and insights into training and preparation. In this conversation, Maddie shares her journey as a vegan bodybuilder, discussing her training regimen, nutrition strategies, and experiences during competition prep. She emphasizes the importance of variety in her diet, the role of high-protein vegan sources, and the growing acceptance of vegan athletes in the bodybuilding community. Maddie also reflects on her future aspirations in the sport and the evolving landscape of natural bodybuilding.
Reminder:
Don't forget to check out our sister podcast, Front Page Fitness, hosted by Drs. Lauren Colenso-Semple and Eric Trexler!
youtube.com/@fpfpodcast
Time stamps:
00:00 Introduction
10:46 Maddie's Journey and Accomplishments Bodybuilding
19:52 Competition Highlights and Achievements
29:50 Choosing the Right Competitive Class/Category
39:00 The Lesser-Known Challenges (and Costs) of Bodybuilding Preparation
53:00 Training and Nutrition Insights from a Vegan Competitor
01:06:54 Protein Intake and Muscle Retention
01:28:00 The Experience of Competition Prep
01:39:00 Future Plans in Bodybuilding
In this episode of Iron Culture, Eric Helms and Trexler welcome Maddie McConnell, a world champion natural physique athlete, to discuss the current trends in natural bodybuilding, her journey into the sport, and the challenges that come with being a world-class physique competitor. Maddie shares her experiences transitioning from a general fitness enthusiast to a physique athlete, the significance of her recent achievements, and insights into training and preparation. In this conversation, Maddie shares her journey as a vegan bodybuilder, discussing her training regimen, nutrition strategies, and experiences during competition prep. She emphasizes the importance of variety in her diet, the role of high-protein vegan sources, and the growing acceptance of vegan athletes in the bodybuilding community. Maddie also reflects on her future aspirations in the sport and the evolving landscape of natural bodybuilding.
Reminder:
Don't forget to check out our sister podcast, Front Page Fitness, hosted by Drs. Lauren Colenso-Semple and Eric Trexler!
youtube.com/@fpfpodcast
Time stamps:
00:00 Introduction
10:46 Maddie's Journey and Accomplishments Bodybuilding
19:52 Competition Highlights and Achievements
29:50 Choosing the Right Competitive Class/Category
39:00 The Lesser-Known Challenges (and Costs) of Bodybuilding Preparation
53:00 Training and Nutrition Insights from a Vegan Competitor
01:06:54 Protein Intake and Muscle Retention
01:28:00 The Experience of Competition Prep
01:39:00 Future Plans in Bodybuilding
