The Kris Gethin Podcast

← The Kris Gethin Podcast3 sep · 17 min

274. My Exact Split at 40+: What Changed From My Pro Bodybuilding Days

274. My Exact Split at 40+: What Changed From My Pro Bodybuilding Days3 sep17 min

As we age, our bodies change — and so should our approach to training. In this episode, Kris Gethin shares his journey from competitive bodybuilding to a more functional, sustainable fitness routine as he navigates his 50s. He breaks down his current training split, why recovery now drives his results more than volume ever did, and how he stays mentally locked in even as the workouts themselves have changed.

What You'll Learn Why Kris moved away from six-day, heavy-lifting training as he entered his 50s How his goals shifted from pure muscle-building to functionality and long-term health The training split he follows now, and why fewer days doesn't mean less intensity What actually drives hypertrophy at this stage of life (hint: it's not more volume) How he approaches sleep, stress, and nutrition to support recovery Why seeking out discomfort is still central to his mindset, even with a lighter schedule Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Kris Gethin's background

01:53 Training in his 30s and 40s versus now at 50

04:12 His current workout split and modifications

06:05 Impact of aging on recovery and joint health

07:57 The role of hormonal health and lifestyle factors

09:51 Changes in diet and supplementation over the years

12:12 Maintaining mental intensity and motivation

14:04 Making workouts more challenging and functional

15:52 Final thoughts and advice for aging athletes

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