Saitama and Genos share a unique mentor-student relationship in One Punch Man, but one aspect often confuses fans—why doesn’t Saitama train Genos properly? Given Saitama’s unparalleled strength, one would expect him to pass on his methods to his disciples.
However, despite their close bond, Genos remains leagues below Saitama in power. The reason behind this dynamic goes beyond simple laziness or indifference.
Saitama’s simple workout routine holds no value for Genos (Photo: One Punch Man/Madhouse)Saitama’s Training Methods are Unconventional
One of the biggest obstacles in Saitama properly training Genos is that his journey to power was highly unusual. Saitama’s famous workout routine—100 push-ups, 100 sit-ups, 100 squats, and a 10-kilometer run every day—sounds absurdly simple.
Yet, it led him to break his physical limits, granting him unimaginable strength. The problem is that this method likely wouldn’t work for anyone else.
Genos, being a cyborg, does not rely on organic muscle development. His power increases through upgrades and modifications rather than traditional physical training.
Saitama’s routine, which pushed a regular human body beyond its limits, has no application for someone who depends on mechanical enhancements. Even if Saitama wanted to guide Genos, he lacked the scientific knowledge or technical expertise to help him grow stronger.
Saitama Lacks the Skills of a Traditional Teacher
Saitama does not approach combat the way a typical martial artist or warrior would. He lacks formal training and does not rely on refined techniques, battle strategy, or advanced combat theories.
His immense power allows him to win fights without effort, making traditional coaching unnecessary for himself. Because of this, he does not possess the mindset of a teacher who can methodically break down techniques and help others improve.
Genos, on the other hand, thrives on structured learning. He actively studies different fighting styles and absorbs tactical advice from skilled warriors like Bang.
His approach to combat is precise and calculated, whereas Saitama’s battles end in a single punch. Since Saitama has never had to develop strategic fighting skills, he cannot effectively teach Genos how to improve.
Saitama’s Philosophy on Strength Differs from Genos’ Approach
Beyond technical limitations, Saitama and Genos have fundamentally different perspectives on strength. Genos pursues power with relentless determination, constantly seeking ways to enhance his abilities.
He believes strength comes from external improvements—new technology, better weapons, and advanced battle strategies. His goal is to avenge his past, driving him to push himself beyond his limits.
Saitama, however, sees strength differently. Having already reached the pinnacle of power, he no longer actively seeks improvement. He fights out of boredom rather than ambition, and his victories feel empty because no opponent poses a real challenge.
This contrast in mindset means Saitama does not share Genos’ obsession with becoming stronger. Since he does not see the pursuit of power as an ongoing journey, he has no motivation to train others.
Genos thrives on strategy, while Saitama fights out of boredom (Photo: One Punch Man/Madhouse)Saitama’s Indifference and Laid-Back Personality
Another reason Saitama does not properly train Genos is his general lack of interest in heroism as a profession. While he enjoys fighting strong opponents, he does not actively seek recognition or responsibility. His laid-back nature makes him an ineffective mentor because he does not take the role seriously.
Genos, as opposed to, idolizes Saitama and treats him as the ultimate source of wisdom. He asks for advice and watches Saitama closely, hoping to learn from his master.
However, Saitama often brushes off these moments, either because he does not see the need for training or because he simply does not care enough to engage in it. His relaxed attitude and lack of enthusiasm make him an unwilling teacher, even though Genos respects him deeply.
Genos’ Growth Requires a Different Path
While Saitama’s strength is unmatched, his path to power is not one that Genos can follow. As a cyborg, Genos benefits more from upgrades, technical enhancements, and combat training from experts like Bang or Drive Knight. His growth depends on a different kind of improvement—one that Saitama cannot provide.
Despite this, their bond remains strong. Genos continues to admire Saitama, and Saitama, in his way, cares for his students. However, true progress for Genos lies outside of Saitama’s influence, which is why the hero does not train him in the way one might expect.