Is CBum Natural? Chris Bumstead Workout and Steroid Cycle for Mr Olympia
Chris Bumstead, affectionately known as “CBum,” is a Canadian bodybuilding icon and four-time Classic Physique Mr. Olympia champion. With his incredible aesthetics, golden-era proportions, and humble demeanor, CBum has become the face of modern bodybuilding. Yet, one question continuously floats around fitness forums, YouTube comments, and gym locker rooms: Is Chris Bumstead natural?
This debate is not just about one man it’s a window into the broader conversation around enhanced physiques, natural bodybuilding, and the sacrifices athletes make to reach the top.
Table of Contents
ToggleWho Is Chris Bumstead?
Chris Bumstead is an IFBB Pro bodybuilder who rose to dominance in the Classic Physique division in 2019. Born and raised in Canada, CBum’s rise to stardom is marked by consistency, discipline, and aesthetics that harken back to the golden era of bodybuilding.
With millions of followers on platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok, CBum has reshaped how younger generations view bodybuilding. He’s not just an athlete he’s a brand, a Gymshark partner, and an inspiration to countless aspiring lifters worldwide.
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What Does It Mean to Be Natural in Bodybuilding?
To be “natural” in bodybuilding means building muscle without the aid of anabolic steroids or other performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs). This includes testosterone derivatives, growth hormone, SARMs, and more.
Natural bodybuilders often compete in federations that conduct drug testing. But even there, gray areas exist with “testosterone replacement therapy” (TRT) and designer supplements. When it comes to elite physiques like CBum’s, fans and critics alike speculate: Can anyone look like that naturally?
Chris Bumstead’s Admission About Steroid Use
In a rare act of transparency in professional bodybuilding, Chris Bumstead has openly discussed his use of anabolic steroids. Unlike many pros who dodge the question, CBum has confirmed that testosterone is a key part of his steroid cycle.
During the offseason, he sticks to TRT-level dosages (around 250 mg per week). As he gears up for Mr. Olympia, that dosage can climb to 500 mg weekly. Importantly, he avoids harsher compounds like Trenbolone, citing their severe health risks.
This moderate and health-conscious approach to PEDs sets CBum apart. He’s not chasing short-term size at the expense of long-term health.
The Role of Genetics in CBum’s Physique
Chris has repeatedly credited his elite genetics for his structure and muscle-building potential. His wide clavicles, small waist, and full muscle bellies give him a classic, aesthetic physique that fits the Classic Physique division like a glove.
That said, genetics alone don’t create champions. Bumstead trains like a machine, diets with monk-like discipline, and meticulously monitors his recovery. Even with moderate steroid use, most athletes would struggle to replicate his look without years of focused work and elite-level DNA.

Chris Bumstead’s Mr. Olympia Workout Routine
Offseason Training
CBum’s offseason routine focuses on hypertrophy with high volume and intensity. He typically trains one body part per day. Workouts include 5 to 6 exercises per muscle group, with an emphasis on progressive overload.
Pre-Competition Prep
As Olympia approaches, CBum zeroes in on detail and symmetry. He adds more isolation movements, particularly for arms, to refine his proportions.
Each session usually involves two working sets for compound lifts and several controlled reps for isolation exercises. The focus is on form, contraction, and time under tension not just throwing around heavy weights.
Cardio & Diet
CBum performs cardio twice daily during prep: morning fasted sessions on the treadmill or stairmaster and evening sessions to maintain conditioning.
His diet is classic bodybuilding: chicken, fish, rice, eggs, oats, and vegetables. Supplements include pre-workouts, multivitamins, creatine, and fat burners—nothing fancy, just consistent fueling for performance.
Chris Bumstead’s Steroid Cycle for Mr. Olympia
While exact details may vary, Bumstead’s PED use is notably restrained:
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Offseason: 250 mg testosterone/week (TRT-level)
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Contest prep: Up to 500 mg testosterone/week
He avoids toxic compounds like Trenbolone and Winstrol, prioritizing longevity. CBum also conducts regular blood work to track internal health, hormones, and organ function.
After being diagnosed with IgA Nephropathy (a kidney condition), he became even more cautious with PEDs. He adjusted dosages and emphasized long-term health over short-term gains.
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Can CBum’s Physique Be Achieved Naturally?
The brutal truth? Probably not.
His razor-sharp conditioning, dense muscle maturity, and perfect proportions are telltale signs of enhanced performance. While some claim “natty or not” debates are pointless, they help set realistic expectations for natural lifters.
Even with elite training and dieting, the ceiling for natural physiques is significantly lower. CBum’s look is the product of years of training, genetic blessings, meticulous nutrition, and moderate PED use.
Chris Bumstead’s Thoughts on Health and Longevity
Unlike many in the bodybuilding world, CBum has been vocal about the dangers of hardcore cycles. He outright avoids Trenbolone and other harsh steroids, stating the side effects aren’t worth it.
In fact, he’s made it clear that if his health takes a turn, he’ll walk away from the sport.
His message to fans is simple but powerful: love the process, enjoy training, and don’t sacrifice your future for short-term validation.
Ethics and Transparency in Bodybuilding
Chris Bumstead has become a beacon of honesty in a world often clouded by secrecy. By admitting to steroid use, he helps demystify the process behind elite bodybuilding.
In an industry plagued by unrealistic standards and influencer dishonesty, CBum’s transparency fosters healthier conversations. Instead of glorifying PEDs, he advocates balance, awareness, and education.
Conclusion
Chris Bumstead is not natural by the strictest definition, and he doesn’t pretend to be. His success is built on genetic excellence, years of brutal training, and a carefully monitored steroid protocol that prioritizes health.
Rather than chasing extremes, Bumstead shows us a different path one where transparency, discipline, and longevity can still lead to greatness.
Whether you’re a natural lifter, a curious fan, or an aspiring pro, there’s a lot to learn from CBum’s mindset, work ethic, and honesty.

Hi, I'm Dave Moffat the founder and Chief Editor of steroidsourcetalk.com and certified International Personal Trainer and Certified Nutritionist. My passion has always been bodybuilding but with 15 years' experience in weight loss programs too, it's hard not to mention all that when you're working at your fitness level fullest (I hope). When Im not in the gym or spending time away from my family i often think about what advice would help others achieve theirs goals just like these inspired mine.
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