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: https://www.instagram.com/fitnessrantspod/
Charles: https://www.instagram.com/charlesbarclxy
Ross: https://www.instagram.com/thephysiquecoach_/
Connect With Us On YouTube:
Charles: https://www.youtube.com/@charles.barclay
The Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@TheFitnessRantsPodcast
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
