Dorian Yates believes today’s generation of men has become soft and weak. On Jan. 27, 2026, he shared that the gym is where they can become physically and mentally resilient for future challenges.
“Learn to be uncomfortable… This is my message to you all… we need strong men! I believe you need some stress in your life, you need challenges and you need to overcome them. Strong men make good times…”
During his prime, Dorian Yates dominated the Mr. Olympia stage in Lee Haney‘s wake. He held the throne for six consecutive years before sailing off into retirement. Although it’s been decades since he stood onstage, Yates continues to watch over the sport.
He believes today’s gym-goers and bodybuilders lack the same mental strength and toughness that was on display during the 1990s. Environment plays a factor, but the bodybuilding legend still argues that fitness is where true growth happens.
Dorian Yates Says Men Are ‘Weak and Soft,’ Encourages Challenges at the Gym
In the Instagram reel, Yates highlighted that today’s men are weak and soft because life has become too comfortable:
“What do I think about the current generation? Well, I think they are weak and soft. Maybe it’s not their fault because of the environment. Maybe I’m softer than the generation before me because things are too comfortable now.”
For physical and mental growth, Yates said the biggest needle-mover is the gym.
“You got it too comfortable, too much technology, and a man needs challenges. You need challenges. You need to overcome challenges and to get stronger. The challenge is in the gym guy. We need to get stronger, well, I don’t. You need to get stronger because we need strong men in the future.”
He added that men have to remain strong to handle life’s challenges, and eventually, it becomes a habit.
“You got to get strong for the future, for yourselves, and for your families. You need to have some stress in your life. Challenge yourself, and go to the gym, push yourself, and you will feel so much better.
When you get a challenge and overcome this, it becomes a habit. Life is going to throw things at you, and you’re not going to be ready unless you get stronger mentally and physically,” said Dorian Yates.
It’s not just typical gym-goers that Yates has called attention to. He recently argued that modern Mr. Olympias don’t represent the ‘ultimate male physique.’ Unlike his era, he noted that athletes lack quality muscle and stature.
Yates wants to see the next generation of men thrive. He believes physical and mental resilience are key to a better quality of life.
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