Embarking on the journey of muscle building, many are lured by the promise of perfect form and full range of motion even when the training only involves lighter weights. However, five-time Mr. Olympia Classic Physique, Chris Bumstead challenges this conventional wisdom. In a recent revelation during his intense training session, he explained that obsessing over-optimized training might hinder young lifters’ progress.

Amidst training back and bicep muscles, Bumstead discussed a shift in his approach to communicating with his followers. He acknowledged that many of his followers are at the beginning of their fitness journey. He admitted to engaging in intense, less structured training, pushing his body to its limits with frequent heavy lifts.

Chris Bumstead reflects on his past mistakes

In the YouTube video, CBum reflected on his own journey as he candidly admitted to past mistakes. “I was training max out fu**ng two rep, one rep maxes, three times a week, and I was 20 years old my body could handle it,” he revealed. Despite the initial gains in strength and mind-muscle connection, this approach eventually led to injuries, prompting him to reassess his methods.

Bumstead’s advice cuts through the noise of conventional wisdom. He emphasized the necessity of finding one’s own path. While perfect form is crucial, he argued that fixating it while training on lighter weights can hinder progress. “If you start off your journey and you’re 18 years old and you’re just doing perfect form with fu**ng 10 lb deadlifts you’re wasting your time,” he asserted. He further advised, “Figure out your own way. Along the way do it wrong, train hard, hurt yourself, figure out your s**t and you can optimize in the future.”

However, the bodybuilding icon confessed that his current ability to lift heavier weights with proper form is credited to his earlier training. He also prioritized technique over sheer intensity, adapting his regimen accordingly. Bumstead now emphasizes a sustainable and effective approach to strength training. Just like CBum, Arnold Schwarzenegger highlighted the importance of learning from past mistakes.

Failure makes people stronger: Arnold Schwarzenegger

Arnie’s wisdom isn’t just for the gym; it applies to everyday life too. In a snippet of his interview with Elite Mind Collective, Schwarzenegger stressed the importance of paying attention to details. He compared bodybuilding to life, emphasizing the need for meticulous effort to succeed. He believed that in any task, big or small, striving for perfection is crucial for success.

Reflecting on his experiences, Schwarzenegger said, “Failures make us learn; failures make you stronger.” He highlighted the importance of embracing setbacks as opportunities for growth. Schwarzenegger’s journey just like Bumstead’s teaches us that failure is a natural part of life, but it doesn’t define us. Instead, it strengthens our resolve to keep going despite challenges.

In the quest for muscle building, Chris Bumstead’s revelation challenges traditional approaches, emphasizing the importance of personalized training. Learning from past mistakes, both Bumstead and Arnold Schwarzenegger advocate embracing failure as a stepping stone to success.