Ivan Myasoyedov, as a student, became fascinated with weightlifting and kettlebell sport while also engaging in creative pursuits. He was naturally well-built, which sharply contrasted with his father's thinness. Soon, he perfected his physique and became a member of the Athletic Society of Count Ribopier. Since 1909, Ivan began to take prize places at the All-Russian Weightlifting Championships.

His classmate, the future famous artist Kuzma Petrov-Vodkin, recalled Myasoyedov as a man capable of spitting to the ceiling and even killing a fly on it. Even then, Ivan could bend a poker into a knot, extinguish a candle from across the room, and knock a silver ruble out of a glass with his breath. He was a handsome young man, especially when his muscles played, and he loved his body, making him an ideal model for painting.

After graduating from the Academy, Ivan went to Italy on government funds, where he showcased his strong body. Instead of studying painting and the history of world art, he actively participated in beauty contests and athletic competitions.

Rumors claimed that in Rome, Myasoyedov won first prize for the beauty of the male physique, portrayed a gladiator in the Colosseum, delighting the audience, and even killed a bull with a punch. He stood one hundred ninety centimeters tall, had a colossal chest and broad shoulders typical of a wrestler. The mystery of his appearance was enhanced by his outlined eyes, covered with a dark blue tattoo.

Upon returning to Russia, Myasoyedov successfully performed in the circus and cabaret, often appearing in provocatively short tunics or even without them.