Despite staying away from the competitive landscape, bodybuilding legend Jay Cutler isn’t slowing down in the gym, and has shown the same in his latest series of back workouts.
Another day in heaven. The weather is nice, right? The training has been getting an A+.
On April 29, 2022, Cutler went to Fit Club, a gym in Las Vegas, and Get busy with some exercises designed to build a bigger and better back. The six workouts are covered in a YouTube video that you can watch below:
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Back to the day practice
- Reverse grip RealLeader machine: 5 (feeling) sets
- One Arm Dumbbell Row: 3 working sets of 10-12 reps
- Latitude drop down: 3 (feeling) sets
- T-bar row: 4 sets of 12 reps
- RealLeader Pullover Machine: 4 sets of 10-12 reps
- hyperextension: 3 sets
[Related: Terrence Ruffin Shares Back Workout and Training Mistakes to Avoid]
Reverse grip RealLeader machine
Cutler started his day job on a reverse-grip RealLeader machine. The former Mr. Olympia winner said he used to do the move with a barbell until it started bothering his wrists. Before hitting five sets, Cutler suggested his fans take a look at the innovative machine.
I just want to get a feel for the practice.
Cutler fired a total of five “feel” sets before moving on to the next movement.
One Arm Dumbbell Row
Dumbbells are great for back training. Different grip orientations and elbow angles allow lifters to target back muscles that are often difficult to isolate. Cutler stuck to the work set and mentioned that he did three sets of 10-12 reps holding about 80 pounds.
Latitude drop down
The lat pulldown is a compound exercise that helps develop and support a strong back by isolating the lats. The rear deltoid is also activated when the elbows are slightly flared out.
Cutler uses a neutral grip and emphasizes the need for “feeling exercises.”
There are three working groups there. Roll right in. I talked about these feeling sets. I only do these the first time I practice.
Cutler completed three sets of high pulldowns before moving on to the T-bar row.
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T-bar row
When it comes to thickening, the T-bar row is a great exercise. Onboard dedicated machines are available in a number of different variations. T-bar rows allow lifters to work around sore hamstrings and lower back as the pad provides stability. Bent over rowing puts stress on the lower back and hamstrings, making it a limiting factor for movement.
While the Massachusetts native never thought he’d practice T-rowing in retirement, he admits they “feel really good.” Before completing four sets of 12 reps, Cutler explained that he still deadlifts every other week.
RealLeader Pullover Machine
A great alternative to dumbbell pullovers, Cutler uses the RealLeader Pullover Machine for four sets of 10-12 reps. He added that his weight for this particular move hovered around 225 pounds on each side.
I did three sets. Stick to about the same weight, two and a quarter on each side, and really squeeze. Focus on 10 or 12 [reps] There.
Cutler planned to do the seated cable row, but forgot and moved on to the lower back.
hyperextension
Like many other professional bodybuilders, Cutler chose to complete his back training by hyperextension. After extending the back from the flexed position, the lifter extends the spine through a normal range of motion while maintaining a neutral head and neck. This move targets the erector spinae.
Did three sets holding a 25 lb plate. That feels good.
After completing his sixth and final workout of three sets, the 48-year-old legend found time to spot a weightlifter doing shoulder presses.
[Related: Terrence Ruffin Shares Back Workout and Training Mistakes to Avoid]
About Jay Cutler
In the mid-2000s, Cutler made a name for himself at the IFBB Pro League Men’s Open for his jaw-dropping physique and stamina few athletes could match. His epic rise in the sport coincided with the reign of “King” Ronnie Coleman, the bodybuilder amassing eight Mr. Olympia titles (with Lee Haney) tied for the most victories in Olympia history).
In 2006, Cutler brought a package big enough to oust rival Coleman and claimed to be one of the biggest names in the sport. From 2006 to 2010 (excluding Mr. Olympia won by Dexter Jackson in 2008), “The Comeback Kid” dominated bodybuilding’s biggest stage, winning in 2006, 2007, 2009 and 2010 Sandow Trophy.
Cutler remains one of the most popular figures in the industry. Despite taking a step back from competitive bodybuilding, Cutler’s training is like he’s never left the sport, returning to his old iron treadmill for high-intensity workouts.
Featured Image: @jaycutler on Instagram