Stefan Kienzl: Bodybuilding Fans Judge Athletes Based on Instagram Pics, Not Fine Details
Stefan Kienzl Analyzes Bodybuilding’s Hottest Topics: Judging Standards, Pro Status, and Open vs. Classic Showdowns
In this episode of GI Conversation, hosted by Vlad Yudin, bodybuilding coach Stefan Kienzl dives deep into the elite competitive scene. Kienzl, renowned for shaping champions like Nathan De Asha, Shaun Clarida, William Bonac, Urs Kalecinski, Wesley Vissers, and Martin Fitzwater, shares expert opinions on the biggest bodybuilding controversies of 2024.
This discussion covers Martin Fitzwater’s breakout performance at the Olympia, the shockwave of Chris Bumstead stepping into the Men’s Open division, and the ever-changing dynamics of Classic Physique competition.
Martin Fitzwater’s Breakthrough at Olympia 2024
Martin Fitzwater’s fourth-place finish at the 2024 Olympia stunned many, but not his coach, Stefan Kienzl. He revealed that both he and Fitzwater were confident in their ranking, despite social media predictions suggesting otherwise. Kienzl highlighted that most bodybuilding fans assess physiques through Instagram images rather than appreciating the intricate conditioning and stage presence developed through months of intense training. Those who witnessed Fitzwater dominate at the New York Pro recognized his potential as a legitimate Olympia threat.
Fitzwater’s greatest asset is his exceptional bone structure and overall symmetry—key attributes of elite bodybuilding aesthetics. Kienzl stressed that bodybuilding judging often prioritizes minimizing flaws just as much as amplifying strengths. With Fitzwater displaying the least weaknesses on stage, his high placement was a direct result of their meticulous contest prep and peak conditioning.
The Prague Pro: Fitzwater vs. Bumstead
Following the Olympia, Martin Fitzwater entered the Prague Pro as the frontrunner—until Chris Bumstead shocked the bodybuilding world by announcing his debut in the Men’s Open division at the same event.
Stefan Kienzl viewed this as an advantage rather than a challenge. The higher the stakes, the more significant the victory, and competing against a superstar like Bumstead only elevated the prestige of the contest. While Vlad Yudin speculated that Bumstead’s presence might add pressure to Fitzwater, Kienzl remained fully confident in their game plan.
Despite Bumstead’s elite genetics and dominance in Classic Physique, Kienzl was convinced that switching to Open Bodybuilding in just four weeks wasn’t enough to surpass a seasoned Open-class competitor like Fitzwater. The sheer muscle mass, thickness, and density required for success in Open bodybuilding take years of hardcore training to develop—not just a few weeks of adjustments
Fitzwater’s Battle at the Prague Pro
Heading into the Prague Pro, Stefan Kienzl was fully confident that Martin Fitzwater would claim victory. However, an unforeseen setback struck—Fitzwater suffered a hamstring tear during his second transition into a back pose. Despite the painful injury, he pushed through with sheer determination, and Kienzl remained convinced that his athlete’s conditioning and stage presence would secure the win.
Kienzl also argued that Shaun Clarida deserved to place higher than Chris Bumstead at the Prague Pro. While Bumstead’s star power was undeniable, Kienzl believed Clarida’s razor-sharp conditioning and impressive muscle density for his size should have given him the advantage in the final standings
Bumstead’s Impact on the Men’s Open Division
Although Martin Fitzwater emerged victorious over Chris Bumstead, the reigning Classic Physique champion still secured second place, outperforming over 90% of the Men’s Open lineup. This sparked a major debate—what does Bumstead’s success indicate about the future of the Men’s Open division?
Stefan Kienzl recognized Bumstead’s world-class physique and undeniable star power but clarified that he had not truly challenged the elite-tier Open bodybuilding competitors. He emphasized that, based on the judges’ scorecards and his discussions with IFBB head judge Steve Weinberger, Bumstead was not close to overtaking Fitzwater in the rankings.
Bumstead’s dominance in Classic Physique stems not only from his structure but also from his commanding stage presence. While bodybuilding is officially judged on muscle mass, conditioning, and symmetry, fans are naturally drawn to charisma. If Bumstead continues refining his Open physique while preserving his signature stage appeal, he could evolve into a serious threat in Men’s Open bodybuilding.
Is Bodybuilding’s Judging Criteria Truly Defined?
Vlad Yudin questioned whether bodybuilding’s judging standards are clearly outlined, considering how often fans debate contest results.
Stefan Kienzl acknowledged that the criteria aren’t always strictly defined, as judging is influenced by the specific lineup at each competition. He used the Women’s Bikini division as an example—while the category typically rewards a softer, more feminine physique, there are times when a more conditioned athlete wins. This occurs when the most shredded competitor still presents the most complete and balanced overall package compared to the rest of the lineup.
Ultimately, Kienzl believes the IFBB judges do an excellent job, even if fans occasionally dispute the placings. In bodybuilding, the overall physique and presentation hold more weight than focusing on individual details.
The Surge in Pro Cards: Boost or Setback for Bodybuilding?
With more IFBB pro cards being awarded than ever before, the bodybuilding community remains divided on whether this trend benefits or harms the sport.
Stefan Kienzl acknowledges both the advantages and drawbacks. A higher number of pro cards means more opportunities for athletes, which helps grow the sport. However, he warned that many newly crowned pros develop unrealistic expectations. The harsh reality is that, despite the IFBB having hundreds of professional bodybuilders, only 10–20 truly rise as legitimate title contenders on major stages.
The increasing saturation of the pro ranks means that earning a pro card no longer guarantees success. Athletes must understand that the real challenge begins after turning pro—not before.
Classic Physique Showdown at Olympia 2024
Stefan Kienzl, known for coaching several elite Classic Physique competitors, reflected on their performances at the 2024 Olympia.
Wesley Vissers, for instance, claimed victory at the Arnold Classic but placed eighth at Olympia. Kienzl attributed this to the difference in competition level. At the Arnold Classic, Vissers’ unique structure stood out against rivals who lacked fully developed hamstrings and glutes. However, at Olympia, he faced a much deeper lineup filled with “glute and hamstring monsters” like Urs Kalecinski and Ramon Dino, which exposed his weaknesses. Even though Vissers presented the same physique that secured his Arnold Classic win, the heightened level of competition at Olympia ultimately changed the final outcome.
Can Anyone Dethrone Bumstead in Classic Physique?
With Chris Bumstead reigning over Classic Physique for five consecutive years, Vlad Yudin questioned whether contenders like Urs Kalecinski and Wesley Vissers genuinely believed they could defeat him.
Stefan Kienzl strongly affirmed that his athletes had the right champion mindset. Confidence is often built on previous victories, and their past performances had proven they belonged among the best, giving them legitimate belief in their Olympia potential.
When asked whether Classic Physique competitors were too friendly with Bumstead instead of embracing a more aggressive rivalry, Kienzl avoided discussing the social aspect. Instead, he focused purely on a technical breakdown of Bumstead’s physique.
According to Kienzl, Bumstead’s biggest flaw lies in the individual “beauty” of his muscle bellies. While his overall structure is stunning, some competitors display more aesthetically refined muscle details. However, Bumstead’s towering frame and commanding proportions create such an overwhelming visual presence that these minor imperfections don’t affect his dominance in the division.
Who Will Claim the 2025 Classic Physique Olympia Title Without Bumstead?
With Chris Bumstead confirming that 2024 was his final Classic Physique Olympia, the division is now completely up for grabs.
Stefan Kienzl views this as an exciting turning point. Without a dominant champion, no clear frontrunner exists, meaning any elite competitor has a real shot at seizing the title. He stressed that victory in 2025 will ultimately depend on who can make the most significant improvements in their physique while minimizing weaknesses.
This unpredictability makes the 2025 Classic Physique Olympia one of the most eagerly awaited contests in bodybuilding. With the title wide open, the competition is fiercer than ever, setting the stage for thrilling battles and unexpected upsets.
Final Takeaways
This Episode with Stefan Kienzl delivered an in-depth analysis of bodybuilding’s biggest debates. From Martin Fitzwater’s rise at Olympia to Chris Bumstead’s influence on the Men’s Open division, Kienzl provided expert breakdowns and exclusive behind-the-scenes insights.
As the 2025 season approaches, the bodybuilding landscape is shifting rapidly. Kienzl’s perspective highlights the relentless pursuit of excellence required to succeed at the sport’s highest level, making this episode a must-watch for both fans and athletes.
Stay tuned for future episodes as Vlad Yudin and Stefan Kienzl continue dissecting the ever-evolving world of professional bodybuilding.
