Christopher Bumstead

Christopher Adam Bumstead, otherwise known as “CBum,” is a Canadian IFBB Pro League professional bodybuilder, claimed to be one of the best in the world of classic physique bodybuilding. As a four-time Mr. Olympia, CBum not only has an aesthetic physique and insane proportions but also a winning mentality that should be followed by other athletes. CBum’s journey to becoming four-time Mr. Olympia was filled with both physical and mental challenges. He was able to overcome them and is now preparing to go five for five at the next Classic Physique Olympia.

Bodybuilding:

Bodybuilding, even though it might seem different from many other forms of conventional sport at first, is extremely difficult and much more mentally and physically straining than most people think. The sport not only requires physical strength but also careful attention to diet, training, and recovery. In order to step on stage, bodybuilders must achieve a dangerously low body fat percentage that makes them feel nauseous and fatigued. Therefore bodybuilding involves a significant focus on diet and nutrition. Athletes must consume precise macronutrient ratios to build muscle while maintaining low body fat. This rigorous nutritional regime, combined with intense training, places substantial stress on the body.

Hurdles on the Road to 4x Mr. Olympia:

Chris Bumstead started his bodybuilding career back in 2014. He quickly made a name for himself with his impressive physique and dedication. CBum faced many challenges throughout his career as a bodybuilder, the biggest one being diagnosed with IGA Nephropathy, an autoimmune disorder that affected his kidneys. Diagnosed when he was training for Mr. Olympia in 2018, CBum’s legs swelled up abnormally to the point where he had to be rushed to the doctor mere weeks before a competition. Furthermore, CBum also constantly faces mental challenges such as stress and anxiety. However, Bumstead would eventually be able to communicate his feelings and relax as needed to prevent anxiety from growing. CBum eventually pushed through these challenges and won his first Mr. Olympia in 2019. This victory was a testament to his resilience and ability to manage his physical and mental health whilst competing at the highest level.

Going For His 5th Title:

This year, CBum is going for his 5th Mr. Olympia title despite almost reaching 30. In preparation for the upcoming show, Chris is following a strict and intense training and diet regimen. Besides his training, CBum also focuses heavily on recovery health management. He’s been taking supplements crucial for his health as well as doing regular checkups at the doctor. With his level of dedication and love for the sport, it’s likely that he is going to defend his title later this year on the stage.

Lessons for Athletes:

CBum’s resilience, dedication, and adaptability should be followed by other athletes not only in bodybuilding. Bumstead's journey highlights the importance of dedication and the ability to adapt to challenges. Despite his health issues, he’s continued to push himself and achieve at the highest levels. His ability to overcome significant health challenges and continue competing at the top level is also an inspiration to athletes facing their own obstacles.

Sources:

Kiran, Joseph. “‘I’m Still F***ing Battling It’ - Chris Bumstead Opens up about His Bout with Mental Struggles and Stress.” Sportskeeda, Sportskeeda, 13 Mar. 2024, www.sportskeeda.com/us/olympics/news-i-m-still-f-ing-battling-it-chris-bumstead-opens-bout-mental-struggles-stress#:~:text=In%20a%20recent%20YouTube%20video,things%20outside%20of%20one’s%20control..

Panganiban, Edcel. “How Did Chris Bumstead Get so Big?” Fan Arch, Fan Arch, 23 Apr. 2024, fanarch.com/blogs/fan-arch/how-did-chris-bumstead-get-so-big#:~:text=Chris%20Bumstead’s%20training%20philosophy%20is,stimulate%20overall%20muscle%20growth%20effectively.

“‘don’t Know How to Life’: Frustrated Chris Bumstead Feels Lost Due to His Medical Issues.” EssentiallySports, 6 Feb. 2023, www.essentiallysports.com/us-sports-news-bodybuilding-news-dont-know-how-to-life-frustrated-chris-bumstead-feels-lost-due-to-his-medical-issues/.