In episode 252 of The Drop Set, I delve into the nuanced concept of stage readiness, exploring the subjective nature of preparation for competition. We examine the importance of early competition as a means to gain valuable experience and establish personal benchmarks. I also discuss the essential prerequisites for competing, including discipline, commitment, and a […]

0:00 – Intro 0:40 – Getting Started 3:47 – Supplements: Worth It or Waste It? 26:49 – Adapting to Sickness, Missing Gym Time 43:05 – What Actually Happens on Show Day? In the opening segment of Episode 251, we dive into the world of supplements – starting with the age-old debate: Is creatine worth it? […]

Welcome to episode TWO HUNDRED AND FIFTY! In the first segment, I dive deep into strategies for busting through growth plateaus in bodybuilding. First, I emphasize the importance of consistency and dedication during the off-season or growth phases. I discuss assessing whether you’re truly at a plateau and stress the need to attack growth seasons […]

In this episode, we dig in on the finer points of having a successful cut, whether it’s for a contest or just a personal transformation. The final point I make here is possibly the most important: remember to have fun with it all – it’s a challenging journey, but it should still be enjoyable overall. […]

In episode 248 of The Drop Set, I delve into the intricate journey to becoming a professional bodybuilder in the USA, breaking down the processes of various amateur organizations like NPC, OCB, INBA, and INBF. From earning qualifications to competing at national levels, the road to obtaining a pro card is filled with complexities and […]

(3:15) In this episode of The Drop Set podcast, I can’t help but unravel the aftermath of the Arnold Classic with a heavy dose of frustration. I find myself questioning the show’s BEYOND curious choices, particularly in excluding categories like women’s physique, figure, and 212 men’s bodybuilding. With a healthy dose of skepticism, I delve […]

I’ve had a lot of coaches myself over the past 20 years and I’ve spent the last 15 years being a coach myself, so I’ve seen every argument there is on the topic of meal plans vs. macro plans. Let’s put this to rest once and for all. Also some training and hormone management discussion! […]

Episode 245 marks the PERMANENT return of The Drop Set to YouTube – so if video is your thing, check it out there as well going forward.  All episodes will be geared towards an audio only format so listeners here, you won’t be missing anything.  No sweat! 0:00 – Intro/story time 1:57 – Technical difficulties? […]

One of the absolute most common questions I get is “when will I be ready for a show”, or “I’m 14 weeks out, will I be ready?” or some variation on the theme.  My usual answer is “well, it’s complicated….” and this episode seeks to finish that sentence in 30,000 words or less. Call in […]

Hey Darin, can you be rambling and borderline incoherent for 40 minutes?  CHALLENGE ACCEPTED.  The real question:  drunk or sober?  Sadly, the latter.  Yes, this is sober me and I still behave like this. Prep is underway, let’s talk about how it started.  Also, how to mess up your macros in one easy step.  Also […]