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Renowned bodybuilder Larry Wheels is no stranger to pushing the boundaries of strength. However, his recent feats have raised concerns about the potential dangers of his ambitious journey towards becoming an IFBB Pro.

In a recent video, fitness expert Greg Doucette expressed genuine worry over Wheels’ heavy lifting approach, specifically highlighting his jaw-dropping 200 lb dumbbell shoulder press. While the feat is undeniably impressive, Doucette cautioned about the risks Wheels may be taking in pursuit of his IFBB Pro dreams.

Greg Doucette thinks Wheels is putting his shoulders at risk

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Doucette emphasized Wheels’ desire to compete in the prestigious Mr. Olympia Men’s Classic Physique competition, pointing out that this pursuit might be steering Wheels into risky territory. Doucette reflected on Wheels’ previous commitment to Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) after a fatal accident, noting that while Wheels had initially taken a more controlled approach with HRT, recent developments suggested a potential return to more potent substances.

The 48-year-old coach, on the other hand, had a much more stern warning for Wheels. He urged caution when attempting max weight sets.“You’re cheering Larry on nothing wrong with that but please be more careful if you’re going for max weight sets of four in the gym using very heavy dumbbells you’re putting your shoulders at risk,” stated the veteran bodybuilder.

He highlighted the vulnerability of shoulders to injury, particularly when dealing with heavy dumbbells in exercises like the shoulder press. While acknowledging Wheels’ phenomenal strength and massive following, Doucette encouraged him to prioritize safety over momentary triumphs. Doucette also shared his own experiences with shoulder injuries, emphasizing the importance of avoiding potential harm during intense workouts.

Once Doucette had advocated for a “train to failure” approach. However, the IFBB pro coach emphasized doing this according to individuals’ capabilities.

Doucette supports a ‘train to failure’ approach

A while back Doucette shed some light on a study where people gained muscle without lifting heavy weights. He questioned if this was practical and touted that building muscle is easier in the beginning but gets harder over time. Doucette criticized overreliance on studies, saying they can’t accurately predict individual results.

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He mentioned Jeff Nippard, who preferred science-based training over pushing himself. Doucette believed in the exact opposite of this. Intense training and pushing to failure to stimulate muscle growth effectively. He suggested that weightlifters can achieve better results by pushing their limits in workouts, even if they fail sometimes.

READ MORE: “Train a Muscle More Moderately”: Amidst Bodybuilding Legends Like Dorian Yates Preaching High-Intensity Training, 60-YO Bodybuilding Legend Advises to Take a Step Back

One question definitely arises as Greg Doucette criticizes and advises Wheels to be more careful yet advocates training to failure. What, in your opinion, is the best way to achieve the desired result?

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