Inside Westside Barbell, Powerlifting's Most Exclusive and Controversial Gym

In the dead center of Ohio, inside a dingy warehouse littered with weights and what looks like torture devices lies powerlifting’s most controversial and exclusive gym - Westside Barbell.
Founded in 1987 by Louie Simmons, the gym is now a legend in the powerlifting and strength sports world thanks to the methods and training machines Louie has developed, and the 140 plus world records the gym has broke in competition.
However, Louie and some of his lifters hold very unapologetic stances on steroids and their use of them, and this has left the gym mired in controversy. We traveled to Columbus, Ohio to meet with Louie and some of the lifters at Westside to talk with them about the culture of the gym, Louie’s renowned training methods and their use of performance-enhancing drugs.
WATCH NEXT: Meet The LeBron James of Weight Lifting - vice.video/2EH6Zak
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[@illuminatiCorgi]

Growing up, this is what I thought all gyms looked like.

[@andrestrujillo1421]

Mark Sneddon Honestly me too 😂

[@planetstrength8798]

Mark Sneddon until you found out about planet fitness 😂

[@JD-di6md]

It's what all gyms should look like

[@TheFlipsta97]

@@JD-di6md No Joshua. It's good to have disparity, can you immagine how enraging it would be if you wanted a rack or a bench, and all the equipment was taken by people who had no idea what they were doing?

[@JD-di6md]

@@TheFlipsta97 I meant the gym should be packed with those freakbeasts yelling screaming and crushing PRs that's motivating.. watching women use the smith machine to do kickbacks, barbell leg press, hip thrusts and squats for the 10th time that week is discouraging

[@area51r]

vice always with the most out of touch reporter they can find.

[@Rich45464]

🤣🤣 every damn episode

[@BasedNeptune]

Truth

[@viking82]

C'mon they only have millennial vegans to send out, what can they do. ;-)

[@LizardMan942]

@@viking82 true aaha

[@zachrowson1076]

He just obviously doesn’t lift

[@Topsealguy]

Rest In Peace Louie. Your work will never be forgotten

[@DiabetixDude14]

was just about to come back to this video and comment my condolences to the absolute legend who made powerlifting more well known

[@lemonsvcuts56]

Heroes get remembered but Legends never die

[@kratzy11]

i will forgotten him

[@Insaniya.humanity]

@@kratzy11 but first you need to learn how to write

[@AleF202]

@@kratzy11 cope lmfao

[@louv5166]

As a small, bullied kid, I started going to the gym at 15. Becoming stronger than all of my friends and many adults boosted what I thought of myself. It also protected me. For those who have little, going to a place where you feel good about who you are and what you can do is a place of refuge. I never felt as good as I did emotionally than when I was as strong as a bull. Those around you treat you better, see you better. And you treat yourself better in many ways.

[@tommycarrizal1656]

Lifting is religious the gym is a temple it helped me too in dark times much respect bro keep lifting🙏

[@hardlines2635]

Same for me but it also brought me trouble, especially from young guy’s who wanted to fight, I can be out shopping and guys will bump into me expecting me to turn on them,

[@ianarn]

@@hardlines2635 are you very tall and muscular?

[@JB-pp1kt]

Idk it’s all about confidence period not how much you can lift lol. Sure it helps but no reason to look down on yourself. I go to the gym everyday but before I always kept it 100 with myself

[@CallMeSlade]

@@hardlines2635 I get the same thing from small people. Because I’m 6’4 and me being super friendly without wanting to cause fights until I’ve had enough, I’d get bullied for literally no reason other than these small people wanting to show their friends how tough they are. It’s always funny to me because when I grab their arm and force them to kneel and apologise, they cry and run off lmao.

[@rhynnedevelopmentcorporati507]

This is actually incredibly wholesome, mostly troubled men who find comfort and satisfaction through lifting under a wise old man who has dedicated his life towards powerlifting.

[@vitaly6312]

Exactly. It gives people room to be savages so they don’t have to be in society.

[@alexantone5532]

Vitaly wdym

[@John_F_Kennedy79]

@@alexantone5532 it gives them room to be savage in the room in form of lifting weights, instead of being a savage out in society. That’s what he means

[@jimvanderheijden2]

Sounds like a rockie movie but for power lifting

[@pierce1234567891]

Yeah anabolic roid abuse wholesome baby :)

[@shittymcrvids3119]

Eh, I'd rather have them lift weights than do crime.

[@paranoidandschizophrenic2813]

True win win situation

[@brkus1668]

I think they do both, don't see how one excludes the other.

[@stoiccrane4259]

@@brkus1668 Time behind bars disrupts weightlifting progression. They have incentive to stay clean.

[@royythaboi7163]

Maddog 😂

[@imakelovetoyourmommy5203]

shitty mcr vids then*

[@scottlapier4797]

"He'll never admit it, but he wants us to succeed." ....just like my dad.

[@monke5403]

Rest In Peace, truly changed the landscape for strength training. It’s crazy to think we are so lucky to have all of the knowledge we do about strength training, if it weren’t for people like louie we would not be doing the things we do today.

[@WillStopka]

People are mad that they are open with their drug testing instead of lying about it?

[@Sora-o]

People would also be mad if they lied about it.

[@u.sgrant7526]

@@Sora-o You never really know in this industry. Low-dose con-artists who'd sell a dead bird to a blind person get praised, while honest people get bashed. IMO, 99% of people in the bodybuilding game are either gay, insecure or there to make money scamming people. In the actual sports (PL, olympic, cross-fit, strongman, etc.) there's lots of dogma and problems, but at least they know how to train hard, and sometimes even smart.

[@u.sgrant7526]

@@Sora-o You never really know in this industry. Low-dose con-artists who'd sell a dead bird to a blind person get praised, while honest people get bashed. IMO, 99% of people in the bodybuilding game are either gay, insecure or there to make money scamming people. In actual sports (PL, olympic, cross-fit, strongman, etc. as well as commercial sports) there's lots of dogma, issues and PED, but at least they know how to train hard, sometimes even smart and it's exciting. Unlike bodybuilding where's it's all genetics and drugs

[@user-gp8tp1di4h]

I'm always confused by that... If they compete in a non-drug tested federation what's the problem lol

[@reachon7396]

I think people are upset that they’re taking drugs and in a way making it seem normal, you can set a bad precedent but being honest doesn’t make it that much better.

[@jordy2299]

This is like anti-planet fitness. Ideal.

[@senorjalapeno3937]

This is what the dweebs who crossfit, that wish to be like this.

[@andymarinelarena3459]

@@senorjalapeno3937 CrossFitters incorporate west side methods very commonly in in strength cycles/workouts. Louis has even developed and marketed products on Rogue witch is the CrossFit Mecca also located in Columbus. You should maybe understand a little bit more about CrossFit community as a whole before shading the entire community out of ignorance.

[@senorjalapeno3937]

@@andymarinelarena3459 like I said, they WISH. Jusy because they implicate and or practice certain workouts, it does not make themselves be apart of THAT community as you put it. They don't even do fucking pull ups. That alone is a fucking joke.

[@andymarinelarena3459]

@@senorjalapeno3937 😂Bro you obviously have no understanding what crossfit is. Pull ups strict,kipping,weighted pull ups are extremely common in wods.In fact I just did 200 STRICT yesterday as part of my WOD😉.The whole “kipping pull ups aren’t real pull ups!” Is a total misnomer. Ofc they’re not real pull ups hence the the prefix they’re different than normal pull ups because it incorporates a more metabolic approach which is better when ur focusing more on building higher aerobic/anaerobic capacity whereas strict or weighted focus more on strength/hypertrophy. Cross fit athletes don’t “try to be” anything,rather they try to optimize several aspects of fitness while periodically testing and re-testing. That’s it, just workout and look to the best in more specific communities like louis,kelly starrett, Mark bell,sonny webster,Brian Mckenzie etc. for ideas,methods and inspiration nothing more nothing less. I really don’t get why average commercial gym bros feel so threatened by crossfit. I’ve never heard a crossfit person Slander an entire training methodology rather they start by assuming they can learn from others.

[@senorjalapeno3937]

@@andymarinelarena3459 lmao crossfit is for a bunch of pansies who cry when they were told they ain't special fuck outta here with your participation trophy

[@kelsomcentire6298]

Rest In Peace, Louie. Your efforts won’t be forgotten

[@gradymoxley2925]

"If you think its the drugs? Ill tell you ehat i take, and you can try it" Honestly fair, bro is confident in himself

[@Y49R]

I like how they get breakfast together 4 times a week

i like how they inject steroids into each other's butts and then scream POWER!

[@humbertocobian4740]

Why are you guys hating for?

[@shayaanlindow8180]

POOR PIRANO I mean it’s not like admitting something makes doing that thing ok. Now whether or not steroids are positive or negative is a different conversation, but your mentality of admitting something makes it ok is just wrong. Have a good day if you’re reading this tho :)

[@aousrs717]

this is priceless regarding the gym I'm going to where no one says hi to me for a whole month!

[@louiefiend]

These dudes think steroids make you stong just like magic....pathetic. Bet they wouldnt squat the bar alone properly for 25 reps

[@gdicommando4456]

At least they admit to their steroid use. Most powerlifters nowadays obviously use steroids but will deney it to the death

[@chinchecker464]

Phil The Logician a lot

[@BaronVonBielski]

Phil The Logician Larry snd every other guy he hangs out with.

@@BaronVonBielski *I said name 3 that deny it, and you said Larry. He has admitted to being not natural. Now name 3 people Larry hangs out with, and the instances in which they denied steroid use. Unless you do that your claim is reduced to horse shit.*

[@martinwendland4699]

@@BaronVonBielski no one denies, they just dont admit because that means losing sponsors

[@stevenhewes1990]

Phil The Logician Dan Green, Yuri Belkin, Andrew Belyeav.

[@chi-townconcerts3485]

Visiting Westside as a 16 year old powerlifter was one of the greatest experiences of my life. I got to have a 10ish minute conversation with him about powerlifting and training

[@user-ot7ue2yb2e]

lifting is a really special sport. i go to a gym that’s home to a bunch of elite lifters, and contrary to the stereotypes they’re all incredibly helpful and thoughtful. i can’t even deadlift my bodyweight (yet) and i get treated with respect, kindness, and encouragement. like they said in this video, it’s such a mental sport and the “meathead” stereotype isn’t really true.

[@steroidsR4losers]

The reason the STEROID LOSERS don't like talking about their STEROIDS: The STEROID LOSERS want us to believe their "size" & "strength" came from lifting weights! The STEROID LOSERS want us to buy their BOGUS supplements & "training programs"! FAKES & CROOKS! Stay natural buddy!

[@Nsamity]

My testosterone levels doubled just watching this

[@user-dm6yo7de7k]

This is a fitting comment since all the guys in the video raised their t levels unnaturally

[@sbh_tx]

wonder if Louie even knows covid exists

[@AlexDutyBMXMTB]

Really? My balls shrank from watching this

[@deltahomicide9300]

My neck fat doubled

[@sirtrollalot7762]

0 x 2 = 0

[@theAFCproject]

Welcome to the salty spitoon, how tough are ya?

[@OldSlyEyes]

Steve650 unsung hero

[@Ironman3OOO]

How tough am I?! How tough am I?! I ate a whole bowl a nails........without any milk

[@ariswitty99]

@@Ironman3OOO no milk? Gotta get that gomad bro. Gallon of milk with the nails

[@zaccrowe4317]

Best comment of 2018

[@hotmodelinbikini]

I ate a bowl of cereal this morning, without the cereal.

[@adamcupples8082]

Imagine being in jail and getting out, thinking your life is out of direction, and finding refuge, dedicating your life to reaching your peak physical strength under a wise old man who does it FOR FREE, I love it

[@jpm000001]

Sounds like something out of a movie

[@mikeh8783]

RIP to the legend, Louie Simmons.

[@rudylabsilica2286]

“To be honest we’d never let you in here.” Haha, ouch!

[@JB-cd6gn]

Obviously interviewer has zero interest in muscles, bet $$ he is vegan

[@spacegupta71]

Type of shit people need to hear sometimes

[@nighthawk4149]

Money talks.

[@BeastinlosersHD]

At the core I think he just doesn't have the body to lift. I think the fact he is not a bulky dude is just the icing on top.

[@erikletendre7512]

If the reporter cared at all he’d take it personally and bulk up and make a career out of it so he could join. Tis the point of the entire video in only guys who take this shit to the max are allowed to work out there

[@seventhings1591]

It's not against the rules to take drugs its against the rules if you get caught -TJ Dillashaw

[@adepresseddanawhite4534]

Take all the drugs you want. Henry cejudo showed him what a gold medal beating looks like

[@Babyuwuwugirluwuwu]

All the drugs can’t give him a gold medal

[@jackmehoff915]

there are no rules against PEDs in power lifting

[@5koby4]

@@adepresseddanawhite4534 Wait Henry cejudo has a gold medal?

[@thedotmachine8804]

5koby4 Yeah he does; he just never brings it up because he is just too damn humble

[@gonzalezfelix11]

7:15 hits different now… R.I.P Louie Simmons

[@Sheenovastee]

Really does.

[@randomdudewholikesmusic1640]

I just found out about Louie's death... Thanks to this man opening up about his low self-esteem issues at the beginning, even if it was mentioned for a few seconds, it helped motivate me to be consistent with working out... I'm 5 months in, monday to friday. By the time I was born in 2000, this man was lifting for decades, but I wish I could've thanked him. RIP The Last Samurai of Weightlifting.

[@avocado5387]

repent and trust in the finished work of Jesus the holy wrath of God was laid on Jesus on the cross for your sins you deseved the wrath of God but it was laid on Jesus. To cover up your sins a perfect sacrifice was needed Jesus was that perfect safrifice repent of you sins and put your trust in Jesus for salvation.

[@charlesyoung9980]

I'll pay anyone 500 bucks to go to that gym and erase that board. That is, if you make it out alive.

[@TylerMarshallxxxBAM]

easy peasy. Bring a sprinter to outrun all of those balloons, bring a gun to pop all of those balloons , or bring a couple heavy weight fighters to choke em all unconscious one by one cuz you cant bench press your way out of a rear naked choke!!!

[@nickgoedde9046]

Ed Jones lmao that’s gold

[@stevena8719]

Not a single person in that gym knows how to fight. A well trained fully grown man could walk in and out easy.

[@stevena8719]

@coffee cures79 I make more money than you

[@stevena8719]

@coffee cures79 Everything about my life is better than yours

[@jayr1352]

The bench press dude has the shortest arms I've ever seen lol

[@mataio1234]

He is for sure built for bench press with thoes arms haha

[@themanagement69]

It’s a given for any bench press champ

[@kowoh]

You can have a great bench press with long arms but the shorter guys are dramatically better at it. I have seen NBA players who can bench 500 lbs no shirt , raw but the top powerlifters are double that hehe.

[@darkflay12345]

Short people have short arms. How to easily spot manlets

[@jayr1352]

@@darkflay12345 his arms are disproportionately short, though

[@leoverran311]

62 years old and I guess I got a late start. This is inspiring stuff, I’ll never get as strong as these dudes but I’m gonna try.

[@jessenunez7205]

Hope you get strong man! It ain’t ever too late to join the lifting party bro

[@DopeyDetector]

❤

[@jpm000001]

Respect man

[@DanielRodriguez-gm1ih]

It’s amazing the mentality that they have. They love lifting and found people to share their passion with. I would never do something so destructive to my body but I definitely have respect for the hard work these people put into lifting.

[@uberdriver9877]

Body building is more destructive than weightlifting....

[@steroidsR4losers]

The reason the STEROID LOSERS don't like talking about their STEROIDS: The STEROID LOSERS want us to believe their "size" & "strength" came from lifting weights! The STEROID LOSERS want us to buy their BOGUS supplements & "training programs"! FAKES & CROOKS! Stay natural buddy!

[@DrOrr]

@@uberdriver9877 the lifestyle these dudes live is pretty destructive though

[@Author_Sun]

@@uberdriver9877 no

[@elpibe3514]

Heavy lifting in a non competitive maner is actually incredibly healthy,improves hormonal function and bone density

[@sahilbasera834]

I mean they lift heavy ass weights and take steroids to get big, strong and break records. People around the world do worse stuff and never get judged

[@cardsfighter2]

That's some impressive talking out of your ass. How bout an example?

[@Pizza-PizzaP]

Tug Speedman you ever heard of Jeffery Epstein? How did it take so long for the stuff he did to get taken seriously

[@cardsfighter2]

@@Pizza-PizzaP you wanna try some English and punctuation so I can understand what the fuck you're saying?

[@femto4301]

Tug Speedman His punctuation is perfect what are YOU talking about. Also what is this “talking out of his ass” he’s clearly right

[@hcole3201]

Pizza you’re comparing politics to sports. Also that’s a false equivalency. At that point, why not say “nobody cared about hitler for a while during the time of appeasement, so why does it matter if the Russians are doping in the olympics?” Just cause something immoral completely unrelated happens (even if everyone knows it’s wrong like Epstein or Weinstein) and isn’t immediately identified rectified or spotlighted doesn’t make everything else ok.

[@turboboy1983]

The only difference between these guys and all the other competitors is that they’re upfront with what they’re doing/using. Honesty has become taboo in our society.

[@ralphfraz]

We live in a culture where I genuinely believe most people are live day to day carrying tons of repressed shit they would never reveal

[@basedkneegrow8324]

We live in the second weinmar republic. It is chock full of liars, hypocrites, and self delusional narcissists.

[@JK-vc7ie]

Beebo the mighty little bear Not everyone cheats in life.

[@kowoh]

Agreed beebo , sorry but some sports the records are so inflated because of PED’s that you can’t compete unless you take them. This isn’t a criticism it’s a fact But there are drug tested meets people can compete in if they want So I don’t see anything unfair about it.

[@JK-vc7ie]

@@kowoh Maybe one unfair thing would e a three inch bench press that counts

[@Galmondify]

I wish my gym had metal plates. The feeling of metal and the sound it makes gives the gym character

[@chikokolat5989]

Started lifting 1+- years ago and watch this video, got me into powerlifting right from the start. A legend will always be remembered. RIP Louie.

[@TheFineolase]

"it's great for lateral movement, I can really feel it strengthening my feet...."

[@patrickbecker2481]

this comment cracked me up hard!!!!

[@hiphopstrongman]

I mean, improving proprioceptive ability of the feet does make them (and the legs, by extension) stronger. He wasn’t wrong. 🤷🏾‍♂️

[@davidwolicki3684]

@@hiphopstrongman but that's not what a fucking belt squat is for

[@williamgregg6339]

@@davidwolicki3684 - But he wasn't belt squatting.

[@davidwolicki3684]

@@williamgregg6339 execatly, the guy doesn't know what he's doing

[@effortlessGFX]

“We’d never let a guy like you in here, nothing personal.” Reporter: takes it personal.

[@gravitytraining6516]

How did he?

[@Tr055]

I don't think he took it personally.

[@gregchapman6190]

I don’t think he did at all,and to be honest the guys in there didn’t look to good anyway ,I’m sure they are strong as hell though

[@PedroHenrique-nj3fk]

@@gregchapman6190 it's a powerlifting gym, not a bodybuilding one, their gol is to get stronger, not bigger

[@sayno2lolzisback]

We all saw that coming a mile off lol I would have burst out laughing if he told me that because the truth would already be so obvious

[@DeliciousManX]

Fun fact: you don't have to travel all the way to West side to have this sort of experience. The power lifting gym from my home town had a similar vibe. We were all brothers/sisters all driven to getting stronger. It was a great experience.

[@rapture_soon]

And they have shitty old equipment and it's small af in there

[@AD-df5tm]

Exactly. You get this same kind of atmosphere and closeness at any powerlifting gym. Hell any small gym period. I used to train at a small kickboxing place and it was the same kinda thing. Westside is 90% marketing BS.

[@chiefhamim]

I actually watched this video a couple of months ago and was amazed, watching this again just to find out in the comments that Louie Simmons died 24th of March! He will always remain a legend of powerlifting.

[@ncshorty11]

Me walks in : So how do y’all feel about cardio

[@AlexIsUber]

*gets murdered with a 45 pound plate*

[@vinceramirez6963]

I’m dead lol

[@kyleerway5685]

The owner would throw a plate at your head like Thor

[@nurimagen314]

they would throw a plate at you like a frisbee

[@respectedmastermind]

They probably move weights to do cardio, like farms carry

[@SuperBigfrank22]

You can say what you want about Louie Simmons but about 20 years ago a called WestSide from Pittsburgh just to ask Louie a couple of question's and he had me on the phone for like 45 min and was very nice to me and helpful. I had just started to Powerlift and was a older guy. Nothing but love for the man.

[@Patensfitness.com1]

Wow. You just called up?!

[@kowoh]

In the 90’s when I was a younger dude I got into powerlifting and I basically just copied what westside did. I made the most progress I ever have in my life. And what Louie is teaching now is way more advanced then the training was back then.

[@espkwy]

I pretty much did the same exact thing about 15 years ago. Got the number out of Powerlifting USA, and asked to speak to him. Even returned a letter from me

[@j.richards2346]

Exercise Warehouse in Bloomfield 🏋🏼

[@levicastele503]

Rest In Peace Louie. You taught me what I know.

[@gregnixon1296]

I started in a gym a lot like this. Chalk on the floor. Torn carpets. Writing on the walls. Missing ceiling tiles. Mismatched plates. I miss it.

[@Pablo123456x]

I like the bald T-Rex little arms guy.

[@Luckydogx]

those stubbs for arms are what make him the best bencher. The weight doesnt travel far.

[@Technoirz]

Lol t-REX 🦖 even that dance he did at the end look like a T-REX

[@paulbunyon8182]

i think it’s kurt angle

[@anxietyebriety6553]

Yeah, that dude is strong asf. Thats why you should never fight random people, you never know what you're gonna get lol

[@Dilanom]

@@anxietyebriety6553 do you really think that guy will be able to land a shot with a reach like that hahah

[@davecullins1606]

Westside gives them: 1) [Community] A group of friends that loves and helps them to succeed in what they care about. 2) [Competence] The ultimate chance to master the passion that matters most to them. 3) [Autonomy] The feeling of freedom to do exactly what they want - to lift like no other. Of course they're addicted to that gym - to them it fulfills all three requirements for human happiness!

[@criteriumgoat6525]

@Genetic Sequence didn't you watch the vid? These people have real jobs!

[@fitfogey]

Look ya’ll. Everyone’s life coach just showed up.

[@grumpyolddan]

@Genetic Sequence they can workout if they want? Who wants to be a lame POS with a cartoon profile pic their whole life

[@bobbyhill4118]

Forgetting one more and it’s a driving factor to get them stronger, and that’s competition. Not to be an ego lifter but I like competing with my friends when we lift, like I’ll take a bunch of pre-workout, go squat some heavy shit or see who can bench 225 the most, race each other outside on a track, do suicides, etc.

[@anasazizi9484]

@Genetic Sequence Its what they love to do so what is wrong with that

[@FCWW87]

903 bench press…. Drugs or not, that is fucking impressive.

[@adamhebert5365]

Honestly unbelievable. Regardless of what doses of any compound you’re pushing. Well beyond what human bodies should be capable of reaching. Respect.

[@og3suso978]

I love the spirit in this gym and that everyone knows each other and be buddys. That's great 😎👍🏻

[@Dylan-cu4ty]

That day when Louie passes, powerlifting will forever lose a *titan* among men. Respect for him taking troubled men under his wing and giving them new direction and purpose.

[@MrJlambo54]

My HS strength coach went to Westside and met Louie, and he was the best coach I ever had. I've never been there but this place is like Mecca in my opinion. For many years I wished I could've been able to lift there. I no longer powerlift, I've started competing in bike racing, but I still use the same mentality and training methods I learned from my coach that came from Westside. It doesn't matter what sport you compete in, this attitude and training style works if you embrace it.

[@fallendorjager127]

Not much of a loss

[@fallendorjager127]

@Kade Cooper hey loser shut up cause if I could I’d beat your stupid teeth in, drop the discord and mic up

[@heheheyup6573]

@@fallendorjager127 bro youre so cringe 🤣 go outside 🙏🏽

[@anonymooseanonymouse6371]

@@fallendorjager127 😿

[@masonsmiley9251]

I think a lot of guys who watched this video can’t comprehend the mindset of guys who compete out of this gym. Most of these guys Louie takes under his wing either fell on hard times or are avoiding rock bottom. Louie builds them up and gives them something to strive for. Powerlifting gives them an outlet for misplaced aggression or the stress of life and allows them to focus on staying straight. David Goggins another inspirational athlete and former NAVY SEAL stated, “Suffering breeds character. You cannot feel extreme highs without extreme lows”. So all of the grueling workout sessions and strained muscles aren’t just for the hell of it. Just like the world record bencher stated in his interview. He feels his best and most motivated when he’s so beat up he can barely make it to the bathroom. They don’t care about how they look or how they feel, it’s about putting themselves through pain with fellow men with the same mindset, very similar to military training. One of Louie’s prodigies Matt Wenning actually revamped special forces training and improved recovery and resistance to injury for the 75th ranger regiment. When you see the comments on this video where dudes are like “Lol look how beat up and unattractive these guys are; I’m glad I just train to look good!” Or “Wow these guys are just a bunch of juice monkeys”. Those dudes are most likely soft as shit and can’t comprehend pushing the body and mind past a place of comfort and into the void. Mad respect to the guys who put up with hardship and try to push past it. If you think it’s easy or can’t see the benefit of it, try pushing yourself out of the comfort zone and see how it feels. Maybe you’ll enjoy it or maybe it breaks you. You’ll never know until you try.

[@leetlikelime]

it's not the void. it's just physical pain. they say it's just about having the right mindset day in, day out. annihilate your physical boundaries as many days as humanely possible with PEDs. i have to say i respect them, as someone who wishes he could lift more at the gym. However, I like to think that I see hobbies that became obsessions for what they are- escapism or a form of comfort gained from dwelling on an idea. ..so you know what breaks you, what does that make you? less flawed? no, what matters is that one is happy, and content in the end.

[@SuperAussie999]

Eloquently said!

[@matthewkissel7921]

Jesus you had a lot to say

[@masonsmiley9251]

Matthew Kissel Ha just my two cents

[@algreen1929]

It's the 75th Ranger Regiment

[@miggi8144]

Man, I'd love a full-length doco on West Side. Plenty of interesting characters and what a story!

[@LA-Irminsul]

The way he said dead or in trouble somewhere was so honest and humble. No lying in it. What a great thing to see, finding purpose

[@SilentMike]

Awesome see you guys feature Louie and westside. Powerlifting is a niche sport with a culture not many get to see in pop media.

[@WesternUranus]

Cool channel my man !

[@spencermariano8454]

Mike be my bff

[@spencermariano8454]

Lol his name is paco^

[@spencermariano8454]

Can I get some Paco tacos with sour cream

[@maltXdefault]

How are you still relevant

[@fiachradillon]

Notice how these men don’t judge. Mind their business and do what they do best. More respect to them ✊

[@justicegandy7517]

What do you mean. They brag about the weight they do when theyre all juiced to high heaven

[@xBio420]

@@justicegandy7517 Well some of them are ex cons, ex drug addicts etc and they're all friends and really only care about one thing, lifting as much as they can. It's not the same type of judgement you'd get from an everyday person. However idk what people find appealing to powerlifting, personally i dont find the powerlifter body type appealing and lifting as much weight as i can just to say i did and possibly end up with a completely fucked up body (torn muscles, broken backs etc) doesnt sound too good either, bodybuilding exercises with a some strength training will do just fine i think.. obviously powerlifters get my respect tho for accomplishing smth like that.

[@Jmack7861]

FlakƎ the powerlifter bodytype is not these guys. These guys do geared powerlifting where being fat makes the suits work better. Real powerlifters that lift raw look great because the more muscle mass and less bodyfat you have means you will do better in your weight class. Larry wheels, dan green, Pete rubish are perfect examples

[@hesaidchest]

@@Jmack7861 But Larry, Dan and Pete all take steroids, takes a second to google it

[@BaronVonBielski]

imlee888 Larry isn’t on steroids? Lolololololololooolololol

[@jonkrause6714]

Thank you for intro video and referral to movie West Side vs The World. Just finished watching it and it has got to be the best raw transformation of emotional strength tied into physical performance with the true love of moving iron. Amazing influences into all other sports, too. A silent icon that definitely deserves hall of fame notoriety. Thank you for your service, too. Semper Fi & Ductus Exemplo.

[@DarkFairlight]

RIP Louie - a true legend of the sport

[@buttadick]

"We're going to do an interview in one of the toughest gym in America, full of harden members from all corners of society, who should we send ?" "Well, all we have left is a guy that weighs about 40 cups of Starbuck and has probably never lifted a dumbbell his entire life" "Good enough"

[@jakobj58]

Out of all the Vice employees this guy had the highest T levels

[@tia4361]

@@jakobj58 fax

[@undeadmens]

Guy goes in gives these guys who gets shit on all the time for doing what they love a pretty fair interview and doesn't demonize them and you wanna shit on the guy because he isnt shredded out the ass. Guys still probably in better shape than 50% of the country and gave these guys a fair rap whats wrong with that ?

[@trulyjahir1112]

nineninenineninenineninenineninenine I don’t think they bashing the guy doing the interview. I think everyone feels like vice always sends the wrong person to the wrong place... *ALWAYS*

[@jakobj58]

@@trulyjahir1112 They think it creates a nice image of 'two world clashing' but it's usually just cringe.

[@louisedge2382]

'i feel it really strengthening my feet'

[@juswolf22]

Louis Edge 😂

[@JJ-pu9fc]

never skip feet day

[@CPAJayhawk]

Surprised the old man didn’t back hand him

[@Patensfitness.com1]

Louis Edge foot and ankle training is massive. If you don’t have good mechanics down there then all your lower body work will be off. Try standing on a balance board for 90secs one leg eyes closed and see how you get on.

[@Balloonbot]

@@Patensfitness.com1 Powerlifters couldnt give a shit

[@seaforty]

RIP man

[@alejandroguerreroryc2821]

Only those who workout for real will understand the strength and will this guys put into their sport.

[@mikeblxde4735]

“I feel it really strengthening my feet” I know louie facepalmed inside at that

[@henryroth3297]

Posterior chain starts with the feet

[@russscott8650]

I doubt it, cause that's the point.

[@Adotp-]

Not a neck between them.

[@arianfusha1853]

lmao

[@breadyegg]

Is this an adaption of the Bill Hicks line: "not a thumb between 'em"? If so, kudos, sir.

[@Tony-ob7lh]

I see you being super defensive all in these comments. Got a powerlifting bf or something...triggered snowflake lol

[@Lappelduvideify]

Did you see that guy using his HEAD against the pad? No wonder he has no neck.

[@permaculturedandfree2448]

A SJW professor has a neck!..fuck its funny..anyone remember? He started antifa...or was .grrrr I need to get checked for dementia

[@tylercriss6435]

Crawl to the bathtub? Crawl? I can't ever conceive of wanting to be strong so badly you'd sacrifice your health and quality of life for it. Additionally, I envy having something you want to fight for so badly you'd risk life and limb for it. Two sides to the same coin I guess.

[@Egm_080]

Saw this in 6th grade (months after the vid dropped) and it kicked my passion to lift and get deeper into powerlifting

[@amak5496]

I first watched this about two years ago before I had started lifting; I thought these guys were crazy. After two years of being in love with lifting it just makes sense now.

[@adamj2381]

It was the opposite for me. When I started lifting, I liked powerlifting for the ability to lift maximal weight, and adopted the conjugate method. In my 20s, I value longevity and athleticism over pure ego lifting. I saw that these guys were the best and wanted to be like them. That changed when I realized I wanted to be fast as well as strong.

[@jaredfrazier2216]

@@adamj2381 and small

[@marioseijas4355]

@@jaredfrazier2216 lol

[@alexmurphy5289]

@@jaredfrazier2216 Actually, yeah. Most people would want a natural body and actually do cardio instead of being obviously juiced up like these guys. To each their own, not everyone wants to lift like this

[@alldetected3106]

I'm not on the same wavelength as them but I understand the appeal and honestly respect their attitudes towards criticism and ideologies.

[@alexxtam]

I wish people would understand the passion powerlifters have for their sport. Fighters beat up their metabolisms for the sake of weight classes. Pro basketball players are willing to destroy their knees and ankles for their sport. Football players risk countless injuries on the field, and so on and so forth. Powerlifters aren't concerned with their health. It's not for the sake of staying in shape or being physically healthy. They do it because they want to be the best, and I wished more people understood that level of dedication and passion in anything.

[@Nick-iy7hn]

My Life Is A Paradox the best comment Period.

[@wyattnyfeler7270]

Cavalry Trooper that is such a dumb comment people make real sacrifices for sports too just because you aren’t putting your on the line doesn’t mean your aren’t making a sacrifice

[@sleepy502]

@@adamdorm3149 Sadly there hasn't been a war where soldiers made actual sacrifice in the last ~70 years or so.

[@nguyenhongquang6397]

@Green Giant You can't be the best in everything, mate. Sometimes tradeoffs are required.

[@jackmehoff915]

Yeah okay, none of that applies to WestSIde because they are far from the best at anything other than using supportive equipment to do no touch benching and quarter squats.

[@terryconjugateiron]

Thank you Louie for showing me how to train into my 40s being banged up. Love and respect from Greece.

[@Lucas_OBrien]

Louie’s legacy will live on. He will be sorely missed. ❤️

[@avocado5387]

repent and trust in the finished work of Jesus the holy wrath of God was laid on Jesus on the cross for your sins you deseved the wrath of God but it was laid on Jesus. To cover up your sins a perfect sacrifice was needed Jesus was that perfect safrifice repent of you sins and put your trust in Jesus for salvation.

[@tricepsish]

What's with all the frustration and hate aimed towards powerlifters? Yes, some may be short and not aesthetically pleasing.... but this isn't bodybuilding..... these guys are pushing their bodies and health to the limit to lift insane weights. They have my respect at least

[@olenoname1445]

tricepsish L

[@spikeman1444]

I love the attitude of these guys. It's so impressive what they do. I just think that if you have a family you're doing them a disservice. You're sacrificing living a long and mobile life for trophies and records. Your family deserves a functional and not injured mom, dad or spouse. I also think that if you injure yourself doing this and others need to take care of you, it's selfish. I still respect what they do though, as long as others don't suffer because of their choices.

[@WesternUranus]

Keep in mind this is the most hardcore powerlifting gym in the world, it doesn't represent the totality of the sport. Most powerlifters like the progression, they strive for new heights and personnal bests. You also get a good endorphin rush after you really push yourselft hehe Unlike bodybuilding that is so focused on the looks and often driven by body dismorphia, powerlifting demands that you be healthy, flexible and balanced. It's about optimisation of your training and knowing yourself. For the average guy that means not getting hurt, being healthy, having a stable life.

[@ExplosiveGuides]

tricepsish Because of all the liberal soyboys

[@MegaJolaus]

There's nothing to admire here. Just a bunch of tortured souls torturing their bodies as well.

[@oliverwilson7220]

"I crawl to the bathtub in the morning because I can't stand up straight, that's when you find out what you're made of" Well I'd guess Glass now

[@bensimmons6149]

Stupid isn’t it

[@ronaldwhitman1377]

@@bensimmons6149 as Stupid as you?

[@NotGeorgeBush]

757WN jokes on you they won’t even make it to 60

[@Eli-gn6dr]

@Héctor Acosta Well they get some sort of reward out of it, personal enjoyment or satisfaction. It may be unhealthier than a different hobby or job, but it is just as valid as others.

[@bbqseitan7106]

Héctor Acosta you’ll live a happier life if you stop trying to squeeze “productivity or reward” out of everything you do

[@robertmurray8355]

R.I.P. Your knowledge and work will never be forgotten. LETS GO WESTSIDE!

[@rileykindred9221]

driving 4 hours to the gym and back everyday is wild

[@pjmac550355]

That one dude who broke the bench press record has the craziest looking body I’ve ever seen

[@Thelawncarenut]

400 LB power lifter leaning on a Prius in the gym parking lot.

[@williamjameslehy1341]

Because he has nothing to prove.

[@WhoopityDoo]

And I bet he gets excellent gas mileage.

[@WhoopityDoo]

Given your infatuation with homosexuality, has it ever occurred to you that you're covering up for something?

[@emailjwr]

The Lawn Care Nut - isn't it more likely the prius belongs to the vice guy? Or is his rental car?

[@paulocuento9949]

he can lean wherever he wants.. funny how thats the thing you noticed

[@wwesodratedrkoz]

7:19 hit different 😞😞

[@knicksprop]

Really provides some perspective. I go to the gym 5-6 times a week, lift, heavy often but am sometimes frustrated by lifts. That said, it's fine, I mean, least my back isn't fucked up and I already play rugby so.

[@StilwellMotovlogger]

I wish I heard a *YEAHHHH BUDDDDAAAYYYYY* at the end.

[@mittennomad266]

everybody wants to be a body builder, but nobody wants to lift heavy ass weights

[@caledfwlch]

Ain’t nuttin buda peanud

[@jordanhuff9409]

Light weight!!!!

[@stephentarabetz7192]

Hahahahaha Yeeeaaahhh buddy

[@scottmatthews6889]

Yeahhh buddddddddyyy!

[@biguglyboyiv6295]

I've always had this quote stuck in the back of my head. I used to compete in powerlifting and I had always wondered what 1st place had won. I asked my coach and he looked me dead in the eyes and said "about a week's worth of groceries and a fuckin back-ache".

[@maggie0285]

I have much respect for that place. I was troubled too growing up and found running. I do 5ks clear up to the marathon. Been part of the running community for years. Running saved my life and did more for me than any psych drug, doctor or therapist. And I live in Columbus Ohio too so this is cool

[@kylebernadyn2465]

They pointed this out in the Westside vs the World documentary but imagine all the record-breakers and legends whose names we don't know because their numbers were replaced on that board over time.

[@Dreadlock1227]

I mean in all honesty, even if you’re on steroids, you still gotta do all the work. The steroids just help you be able to put in better work, more often but you still gotta actually put in the work

[@MassaMainio]

Eeh, ”all of the work” is bit misleading, natural lifters and athletes do all the work, roid users don’t do the same amount of work. I personally have no issue with people choosing to do roids, but it’s something you should straight up admit cause it’s cheating

[@asdnetwork4268]

@@MassaMainio cheating at what? Open competitions everyone is juicing.

[@Gruentastic]

@Michael Brown spotted the juicer

[@MassaMainio]

@@asdnetwork4268 Yeah, and that’s why nobody cares about open competition, people who choose to do roids just lack the dedication and will to work for it as hard as natural athletes, that’s why they try to keep it a secret.

[@asdnetwork4268]

@@MassaMainio lacks dedication? Well I think you just discredited yourself.

[@MrGrizzleysGames]

7:22 over 400KG! That's fucking insane!

[@isaacmartinez8226]

Honestly I just come back for the intro to motivate me to get a lift session in 😂🤔

[@ValensBellator]

The only issue I have is with people who are juiced to the gills but selling themselves and their products on Instagram to teenagers while claiming to be natural. Otherwise, if you’re honest about what you’re doing, have at it!

[@ptarleton]

We got anyone here at Vice, anyone at all, who lifts weights? No. Ugh. Fine. Send Dhani.

[@mohamedelalouani2269]

I feel like you'd get fired from Vice if you lift weights, or do anything deemed manly. Skinny jeans and soy milk or gtfo.

[@joshfaye3300]

Mohamed El Alouani vice is the shit tho

[@Rensoku611]

Enrique Gaviria lol!!

[@gunzac21]

Vice is still the shit. They remain top notch. The journalism is good

[@gunzac21]

Ben Jay disagree. I currently serve. Yes she had her perspective and he had his. But vice was fair they showed both ideas on equal plains. I think they both had important perspectives to listen to and both views got a lot respect. The guy presented himself in an immature (he does comedy so it’s to be expected) but yet very serious and intellectual way. She had her own set of issues where she had to realize this was not her space and not made for her. She had to suck it up and deal with that. The military is 85% male and the network should reflect that.

[@moxifloxi]

3:09 owned

[@brig.badger2896]

Nigga what the fuck are you doing here?

[@bras7855]

Wasn’t expecting you here

[@Han-nk3io]

Hi mox

[@davidfonseca2517]

Who's are u??

[@kianoryan6373]

That’s guys my trainer now😂😂

[@christopherseat9871]

RIP Mr. SIMMONS. Thankyou for everything and everyone you inspired, changed the spirit, the sport, and helping bring science and knowledge to POWERLIFTING. 🤝🇺🇲🏋️‍♂️🇬🇧🏋️‍♂️🇨🇦🏋️‍♂️

[@jerometrescott742]

This is literally a whole new world of weight lifting. This is where warriors are made. Much respect.

[@juangonzalez3034]

Seems counterproductive to lift weights to the point where you wake up disabled

[@mrman8364]

This isn't bodylifting where people are trying to look the best, this is powerlifting where people push them selves to the limit to be the best even if it cost them long-term injuries in the future.

[@juangonzalez3034]

@@mrman8364 I know I'm just being a smart ass.

[@mrman8364]

@@juangonzalez3034 Nah bro you make a point, why work so hard to then just be in the hospital due to pushing themselves too hard or having harsh side effects from using too much steroids. (not saying all powerlifters do steroids, but most do) Most people agree powerlifting isn't the greatest sport for your health and can be dangerous at times if you aren't careful. You are smart by thinking more about people's health rather than there desire to be the best.

[@juangonzalez3034]

@@mrman8364 definitely, health is top priority but I can understand the competitiveness and pushing your body to the limits.

[@whitegoodman7465]

feel bad for these powerlifters like larry wheels, etc..if only they could wrap their head around living with unimaginable pain when you get older, multiple surgeries, broken bones, etc..its all fun and games right now but it will catch up to them and they will a pay a price.

[@polthomaskeeley7860]

I love the 'eat together, stay together' embodiment/spirit instilled by him in that he brings his soldiers to the diner to have breakfast together four times a week. That's an awesome community vibe right there. You can build such loyalty by making gestures like that. Chapeau.

[@steroidsR4losers]

The reason the STEROID LOSERS don't like talking about their STEROIDS: The STEROID LOSERS want us to believe their "size" & "strength" came from lifting weights! The STEROID LOSERS want us to buy their BOGUS supplements & "training programs"! FAKES & CROOKS! Stay natural buddy!

[@RobertGriffith9]

@@steroidsR4losers Westside are happy to talk about steroids though. One guy in the video even said he'd walk people through how to take his stack correctly

[@steroidsR4losers]

The ROIDERS are too SCARED to come off of the STEROIDS because they would LOSE all their "size" and "strength"! This just proves that the ONLY difference is the STEROIDS between someone that uses and not uses! The difference is NOT because they lift weights, eat and sleep. People that lift WITHOUT STEROIDS do that! You are NOT FOOLING us! Lift weights WITHOUT STEROIDS and let's see how "big" & "strong" you REALLY are! Stay natural buddy!

[@steroidsR4losers]

When are the ROIDERS going to be PROSECUTED for STEROIDS? ROIDERS are LAW BREAKING UNHEALTHY FAKES! Stay natural buddy!

[@KlASELI]

Rest In Peace Louie for being an inspiration to all of us

[@bronzearcher9387]

This place is the exact opposite of Planet Fitness lmao

[@owencostello7501]

Planet fitness isn't even a gym lmao

[@boyoncrack313]

@@owencostello7501 Its a fucking kindergarten

[@blazor4033]

@@boyoncrack313 it's a daycare center compared to this place which is a dungeon

[@TotalCapacitor]

Instead of pizza they serve steroids

[@makiyn9375]

My dad broke the Arnold classic in 98 in bench 650 pounds and Westside Barbell was where he trained

[@sampsoncorgi1]

Is dave your dad?

[@makiyn9375]

Nah Mickey Tate

[@mindgamewords]

Respect.

[@breadskate4622]

Hmmmm I smell some bullshit

[@CertifiedSperg]

TwitchTimeUwU nope it’s real, this generation has all the info they want in less than 5 seconds but are still retarded enough to be ignorant my god

[@romanticdonkey468]

It’s amazing reading through the comments how many people have not the slightest clue about power lifting.

[@immortal8447]

Just saw a comment saying that the 900 pound bench press was a joke because he had a slingshot lol

[@b.f.skinner4383]

They made sure to get the manliest VICE reporter they had in the office to do this report

[@icon200]

Something tells me that these guys ain't vegan or practice yoga

[@ryanweible9090]

they may not, but if you lift heavy, yoga does help you from getting stiff and ruining your range of motion.

[@blackmarketarmy]

There are plenty of vegan weightlifters and yoga could be beneficial to their recovery so who knows what all they do

[@garthfairfield8357]

Yoga is a a crock of shit

[@aoutsky]

@@garthfairfield8357 You clearly know nothing about yoga.

[@DavakiDnD]

I competed in U23 U83kg in the UK, and I did yoga often, it's great for staying flexible which keeps injuries less frequent, and is great for active recovery. I'm also vegetarian now and still lift and haven't seen any drop in strength, although I no longer compete.

[@emilianomendoza7272]

It’s all about the passion and love for the sport. For a lot of weightlifters, the iron has saved their lives.

[@The_knife_master6661]

That's crazy this place is literally a mile from my childhood home and I had no idea it existed 😅

[@moneybe34]

rip Louie Simmons a legend forever long live Louie Simmons 🙏

[@pryme2013]

Louie to the interviewer: "you have to have a certain body type to get in here, we would never let you in here" Savage lol

[@gillsilverberg5857]

gotta be fat

[@kindaboredtoday4590]

"We're kicking the shit out of our selves just because we love it". I couldnt stop my self from smiling because you do love it; you love the pain, the will,and mentality,and daily grind thinking to yourself "I'm going to improve from yesterday today".

[@iphone202020220]

Don't forget the thing that makes this all possible, Steroids. They are juicehead turkey's.

[@kindaboredtoday4590]

Viewing I meant being sore and tired or a little hurt and still working out,not tearing up your body by taking steroids but if that what the guy meant well then oh well.

[@kindaboredtoday4590]

What's with the rude comment man,this out of the normal for you or are you just being a jerk?

[@danpt2000]

looks like decades of steroids has put them in a downhill trajectory.

[@balddonaldcerrone7930]

Luis Regalado kicking the shit out of yourself is a horrible way to do it

[@victorrockwood]

Bro said "tweak.. muscles" 😆

[@victorrockwood]

Glad someone else caught that

[@TehAuroraWolf]

Just heard of his Passing this morning. RIP a Powerlifting Legend.

[@jessevanmourik3437]

KZbin stop, I've seen this video 4 times already, stop recommending it!

[@hiphopstrongman]

You do know you have some control over what KZbin recommends, right?

[@sonofsaturn5482]

@@hiphopstrongman I keep getting fucking faux news and CNN in my recommended and next up, even though I've clicked " not interested" and "don't recommend channel" a thousand times.

[@benlooy547]

I know right? It doesn't even say "watch it again" anymore. Lol

[@augustacookeygam5579]

Stop watching it 😁😁😁