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Episode 8 with Charles Barclay - The Natty vs Enhanced Divide
09/13/2025
Episode 8 with Charles Barclay - The Natty vs Enhanced Divide
In this episode of the Fitness Rants Podcast, I sat down with long-time friend and a pioneer of natural bodybuilding here in the UAE, Charles Barclay. We unpack the evolution of the WNBF UAE, the truth behind drug testing in physique sports, and the ever-heated Natty vs Enhanced debate. We dive into: 🟡 WNBF’s explosive growth in the Middle East 🟡 The ethics and implementation of drug testing 🟡 Why female bodybuilding needs more awareness in the region 🟡 Misconceptions about TRT, peptides, and coaching biases 🟡 The rise of “Natty or Not” YouTube culture Whether you’re a coach, competitor, or fan of the sport, this episode is packed with perspective and unfiltered opinions. 🎙️ Subscribe for more no-BS conversations around health, performance, and physique development. Connect With Us On Instagram: The Podcast: Charles: Ross: Connect With Us On YouTube: Charles: The Podcast: Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro: Meet Charles Barkley 01:10 – Origins of WNBF UAE 03:04 – Challenges of Launching Natty Shows 06:26 – Transparency in Drug Testing 09:16 – Competing Natty vs Enhanced 12:08 – Assisted Prep vs Natural Prep 15:06 – Clenbuterol & Most Common Failures 19:03 – The Ethos of Natural Competition 22:14 – WNBF Growth in the Middle East 25:43 – Female Participation Challenges 27:52 – Athlete Exposure & Cultural Considerations 30:33 – The “Camp Mentality” in Bodybuilding 36:07 – Can Enhanced Still Be Ethical? 42:00 – Coaching Biases: Natty vs Enhanced Clients 47:05 – Coaches Using PEDs With Lifestyle Clients 53:27 – TRT, Peptides, and Misconceptions 58:37 – Strength ≠ Size? Think Again 1:05:49 – The Rise of the “Natty or Not” Culture 1:12:48 – Final Thoughts & Where To Find Charles
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