A year after Chris Bumstead stepped away from competitive bodybuilding, the iron still defines him.

He continues to train with intent, but the objective has shifted. Unlike his prime, Bumstead’s workouts now feel more like a pattern.

While training his chest in a recent YouTube video dated December 25, the host asked the six-time Mr. Olympia about his thoughts on creativity in workouts versus strictly following a program.

Reflecting on his Olympia days, Bumstead explained, “I think when it was me competing to win Olympias, I had to have the trust of my own intuition—of what I’d done for so long.”

Bumstead relied on his intuition during his prime years, and that approach helped him clinch six Mr. Olympia titles. However, now that he is retired, he has shifted toward a more program-based workout structure.

“But now, when it comes to training, I actually love having a program because I know I’m driving specific results. And I’m also a huge believer in programming,” said Bumstead.

However, he is not against creativity in workouts. ‘C-Bum’ added that even if you want to change your workouts, you should do it without any hesitation. "Just do it, then break that itch, and then go back to the program,” he said.

Earlier, Bumstead trained primarily for muscle development and the stage; now, the six-time Mr. Olympia is more focused on overall health.

Chris Bumstead is more Inclined to General Health

“I’m definitely focusing more on mobility now, especially with my goals shifting toward performance and movement,” Bumstead told Men’s Journal. Retiring at 29, Chris Bumstead understands that he no longer has to build his physique for anyone other than himself. As a result, he can take a slower, more measured approach to his workouts.

He further added, “That said, I still think at least a level of mobility is super important for aesthetics and bodybuilding, too. If you can train and lift heavy in a larger range of motion, you can see more benefit.”

Improved mobility and athleticism, Chris Bumstead now feels freer; however, recovery has been an issue for the former Mr Olympia. “As for recovery, funny enough, I was way better at it when I was competing. Back then, it was a non-negotiable,” said Bumstead.

Given that, what is your opinion on Chris Bumstead’s decision to take his workout with ease? State your opinion in the comments below.

Written by

Suryakant Das

Edited by

Oajaswini Prabhu