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  • Follow the 2026 Olympia on September 24 to 27, 2026!

James Hollingshead’s Honest Life & Training Update – Heavy Weights, Mental Struggles, and Baby on the Way

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James Hollingshead Feed

James Hollingshead Feed

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Mental health is a big topic atm. I've found myself in a place where I feel unhappy without explanation. They gym is the safe space. we crack on and we do our best

Pro bodybuilder James Hollingshead dropped an emotionally raw and insightful update, blending hardcore training with real-life vulnerability.

He’s currently pushing body weight above 310 lbs, deep in a surplus phase. Training is still one day on, one day off, but he’s starting to ramp up frequency, intensity, and volume—throwing in drop sets and heavier compound work. He emphasizes controlling the eccentric, staying aggressive on the concentric, and mixing time under tension with heavy loads.

Key physique goals right now:

Tighter midsection

More shoulder width

Bringing lat development back up after it faded during his last prep

Avoiding deadlifts temporarily in favor of machines that emphasize lat isolation

But it’s not just about sets and reps. James got deeply personal, opening up about:

Mental health battles and feeling “invisible”

Struggles with eating in a surplus, admitting it’s harder than dieting

The stress of becoming a father soon, with his partner planning to give birth in Norway due to unsafe UK hospitals

Wrestling with his own limitations around responsibility, travel, and feeling off balance

A touching moment: a stranger asked him, “Are you okay?” while he was quietly breaking down inside. That small act of kindness hit hard.

James reminded us that even at 310 lbs, pro status doesn’t mean you're immune to life’s weight. He’s still trying to “just be a better man,” train hard, and stay present—even when it’s not easy.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, burned out, or like you’re going through the motions… this one will hit home.
 

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