Written by Garett Reid | NSCA, CSCS, CISSN, M.S.E.S.S
Fact checked by Andrew Lenau, ISSA CPT & Sports Nutritionist
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It’s a great time to be alive for bodybuilders and regular gym-goers alike. Regardless of your level, there’s only one thing stopping you from improving; the desire to actively pursue information to better yourself. We now have the internet, which gives us access to some of the top information in the world concerning exercise and fitness at the push of a button.
Today, you can simply go and jump on Youtube if you need information on the deadlift, help with nutrition, or help with programming. Consider that to just 20 years ago when the only way you learned something was from the random guy at the gym. The only problem now is perhaps there’s too much information. No. Wait. There is way too much information. Other than us at SET FOR SET, we wanted to lay out the best bodybuilders to be following for information AND motivation this year.
THE 12 TOP BODYBUILDERS IN THE WORLD TO FOLLOW (2023 EDITION)
With big admiration to the all-time greatest bodybuilders, such as Arnold Schwarzenegger, Dorian Yates, Frank Zane, Jay Cutler, Phil Heath, and the list goes on, this article focuses on the best bodybuilders who are still active, whether that's competition or simply online with respect to bodybuilding and working out.
In no particular order, here are the worldwide best bodybuilders that you should be following in 2023 if you want to learn, be inspired, or get more motivation in the gym.
1. Mamdouh Mohammed Hassan Elssbiay “Big Ramy”
If you’re looking for professional bodybuilders to follow, it’s probably a good idea to keep an eye on 2020 and 2021 Mr. Olympia Champion, Big Ramy.
Although he came 5th at the 2022 Mr Olympia and 4th at the 2023 Arnold Classic, when Big Ramy is on the stage he is the big threat, pun intended.
At 5’9”, Big Ramy tips the scales at around 300 lbs depending on the time of the year, giving him a monster frame which is where he gets his name.
While his Youtube channel isn’t the most active, and his Instagram leaves a lot to be desired, he is currently the best there is right now. Therefore, when he does post something, you want to be sure you see it.
And you can always follow the Big Ramy workout split to make some serious muscle gains.
2. Brandon Curry
Brandon Curry won the 2019 Mr Olympia title and the 2019 & 2022 Arnold Classic, which should be all you need to know about why you should be following him.
This American IFBB professional bodybuilder knows what he’s doing and loves to share his tips on social media. In fact, Brandon Curry is actually one of the more active bodybuilding personalities on social media as he frequently posts content from his normal everyday life, such as him watching his kids play sports or events he attends.
He also likes to share his meals, which we find particularly interesting...can you imagine how much food he consumes in a day?! Thankfully, he's a sponsored athlete of Trifecta Nutrition (best meal delivery service for bodybuilders). He is clearly fed very well.
We actually reached out to Trifecta Nutrition for this article to see what he eats. They told us he gets a weekly order of:
- Flat iron steak (4lbs)
- Shrimp (2lbs)
- Shredded chicken (4lbs)
- Salmon (2lbs)
- Sweet potato (4lbs)
All in all, his social media presence makes him much more relatable than some other bodybuilders who only post themselves at the gym.
Still, he also posts excellent workout tips, which could be just what you need to move to the next level in your fitness journey. Or, you could just check out the posts of him posing if you’re looking for some quick motivation; the guy’s physique is insane!
Brandon Curry's Youtube Channel
3. Regan Grimes
At the young age of just 22, Regan Grimes went pro, which is the motivation that’s needed to get younger lifters to follow their dreams. Although he hasn’t grabbed an Olympia title win yet, he has stood on the stage 3 times and has won 3 other professional bodbuilding competitions.
Because of his immense success, both on the stage and in the world of social media, he's become sponsored by awesome brands like Do You Even, Celsius, and Trifecta Nutrition.
If you're curious what his go-to foods are, Trifecta Nutrition sends him a weekly order of:
- Salmon (5lbs)
- Bison (5lbs)
- Broccoli (3lbs)
- Diced Chicken (9lbs)
Overall, we find that what makes Regan Grimes unique is simply his youth. He proves that you can achieve dreams that many would call a fairy tale with hard work and dedication.
We recommend following Regan for pure inspiration to train hard and eat healthy.
Regan Grimes Giant Set Chest Workout
4. Roelly Winklaar
Roelly Winklaar is easilly one of the best bodybuilders. He has placed in the top 3 at Mr. Olympia and won the 2018 Arnold Sports Australia. Being so, his physique is something to behold. He is known to have the best arms in bodybuilding.
However, what really makes Roelly’s social media content so awesome are his daily life posts. It’s not uncommon to see him post videos and pictures of him messing around with his friends and spending time with his family. This is a fresh breath of air as too often, this field can sometimes get a bit stuffy with people always taking it too seriously. All the time.
Now we’re not saying you shouldn’t be training hard and have a certain level of dedication. However, it’s nice to see some pro bodybuilders goofing off with their friends and having a normal life. Well, as normal as you can be when you’re an IFBB pro-mass monster.
5. Flex Lewis
Not all of the best bodybuilders have to be 250lbs+. Flex Lewis is regarded as the best 212lb professional bodybuilder OF ALL TIME! And that’s no exaggeration.
Flex Lewis has won dozens of pro comps over his bodybuilding career, which started in 2013. In fact, he owns the title of Mr. Olympia seven times and one win at The Arnold! He has more Mr. Olympia titles than many bodybuilders have wins. In fact, he has dominated the 212lb class so much that he has been called up to compete in the open category.
When size is everything, the mere fact that he has been asked to compete with guys considerably heavier than him should tell you everything you need to know.
That aside, his social media content is pretty awesome as one pic may be him in a flex off, the next with his young daughter, then hanging out with Dana White. In other words, it’s eclectic, and we love it (you’ve probably realized we like seeing bodybuilders being real people!).
However, he still offers plenty of motivation and tips. Regardless, it’s always cool to see someone so successful be real as it can make us feel like succeeding can be a reality. By the way, his Youtube is quite active.
6. Calum Von Moger
Calum Von Moger is one of the more popular bodybuilders, with Youtube being his main source of content. In fact, he was one of the original fitness Youtubers and has been very successful in this role. Still, Calum is a 3X Mr. Universe so he can definitely back up his talk.
One of the reasons why Calum is so successful and famous is because of how relatable he is, and he is more of a physique competitor, which can sometimes be more relatable than some of the other beasts on this list. We’re not saying that his physique is any less impressive, just that it seems to be a bit more achievable than others (but that’s still a looooong stretch).
His social media content is definitely one of the more educational ones on this list as he talks about all things fitness. For example, he has made several videos dealing with training while in quarantine over the past year (because of this thing called Covid) to help his viewers get through this time period.
However, he still talks about programming, training variables, exercise breakdowns, and diet. Definitely follow Calum if you want top educational content on a consistent basis.
7. Noel Deyzel
Noel Deyzel is one of the newest faces to be seen on social media, and people love him. While he is an IFBB professional bodybuilder, he hasn’t earned as many impressive wins as many of the other bodybuilders on this list, so he is (was) not as well known.
Noel created his Youtube channel in 2008, but he didn’t really start loading videos consistently until around 2018.
Since then, he has gone viral over the past few years with a few of his videos where he’s taking a comedic role on a subject or is calling out haters. He’s also become famous for his critique on modern society.
At the same time, he gives excellent advice on all things fitness in compact little nuggets, making him likable and clickable. He takes on just about every imaginable topic, from lifting, masturbation, steroids, and sex. However, he does it in a funny yet educational way, which is what we need.
While he may not be the most successful bodybuilder on this list (but to be clear, he’s still an IFBB professional bodybuilder), he is probably the most social media-friendly bodybuilder. Follow him if you want a mix of good solid info and laughs.
8. Chris Bumstead
Chris Bumstead is another famous bodybuilder who is known for his young age and being shredded. Unlike many of the other bodybuilders on this list, Chris isn’t a mass monster competing in the open division but is instead a physique competitor. Or we should say physique champion.
He won the Mr. Olympia Classic Physique competition four straight years; 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022. That makes him the reigning champion making him an obvious choice to follow.
Leave a comment if you think he's going to win the 2023 Mr Olympia title.
Another significant difference is that Chris Bumstead is young at the age of 26 and grew up during a different era than many of the other competitors. This makes him a bit more social media savvy, making his channels and content more digestible than some.
Perhaps where he really shines is he consistently posts progression pics (or digression when he’s taking a break) but adds useful tips and information to educate you along the way. This can almost make you feel closer to him as you learn with him rather than from him. For example, it’s not uncommon for him to run body recomps with his followers or maybe even bulks.
Now, you may not look the same as Chris, but you would have the chance to have the same experience as him and actively learn from his mistakes or discoveries. For more detailed information on his programming, check out Chris Bumstead's workout routine and diet that he follows in his off-season training.
Chris Bumstead Killer Shoulder Workout
9. Ronnie Coleman
Ronnie Coleman, arguably only second to Arnold Schwarzenegger when it comes to famous bodybuilders, winner of Mr. Olympia 8 years in a row, and the creator of "Lightweight Baby!", is considered by many to be one of the best in bodybuilding history.
While he has currently gone through some major changes with his health, he still has a significant role in the world of bodybuilding. Whether you check out his motivational reels or just watch old training videos, it’s hard to not get pumped up when you see this mass monster train.
However, one of the things we love about Ronnie is his old school training mentality. He trained hard and with an intensity like no other. Further, Ronnie Coleman loves lifting heavy ass weight. In fact, that’s one of his call signs;
“Everyone wants to be a bodybuilder but nobody wants to lift heavy ass weights!”
If you have read our articles on strength and hypertrophy training, you’d know that we put high emphasis on including some strength training in your program. Ronnie Coleman's workout routines are a shining example of that.
Further, we love the fact that Ronnie loved using free weights. Barbells or dumbbells; if you watch his videos, there’s a good chance he’s using one of those. Regardless, the saying “To know where you’re going, you need to know where you came from” applies to Ronnie as he was the face of the new era of bodybuilding.
Compared to other bodybuilders of the past, Ronnie is the most active and educating online, which is why he makes the list to this day! Legend!
10. Makaveli Motivation
While not necessarily a specific bodybuilder, Makaveli Motivation’s entire channel is dedicated to creating motivational videos to get you pumped for your next sesh. This inspiration to release your inner monster comes in various forms of videos.
Still, one of Makaveli Motivations’ primary ways is by collecting footage from a specific bodybuilder, throwing in some quotes, and then, of course, laying a sick dramatic track over the top.
In fact, you can find motivational videos with a good portion (if not all) of the bodybuilders on this list. So, while not a bodybuilder, one of the most significant determinants of success in the gym is getting the motivation to get there, and Makavekli Motivation does just that.
11. Omar Isuf
Omar Isuf is a little different from the above channels as Omar Isuf is more about education than motivation, but there’s definitely some of that too. Further, most would probably describe Omar Isuf as a strength athlete as he primarily does videos surrounding Olympic lifting, powerlifting, and other big barbell movements.
However, he’s constantly evolving and trying new things, so bodybuilding is definitely a part of his channel. In fact, he has had the king of muscle hypertrophy, Dr. Brad Schoenfeld, on his channel quite a few times.
Basically, Omar Isuf is a great channel to watch if you want to be entertained and educated at the same time. He uses the perfect blend of comedy in his approach to making some of the most mundane topics extremely interesting.
12. Buff Bros
The Youtube channel Buff Bros was developed by brothers Hudson & Brandon White. Their channel offers information on just about every single aspect of the world of fitness. Diet, sleep, hormones, and of course, training!
Their channel is geared more towards beginners, but anyone can learn from their content indefinitely. Plus, they’re just funny, which makes it an entertaining watch as well. They may have a video on “Best biceps exercise” or “Beginners workout program”, basically the information you may need if you’re just stepping in the gym.
(MORE THAN) HONORABLE MENTIONS FOR BEST BODYBUILDERS TO FOLLOW IN 2023:
As we all know, these days, famous faces are changing left and right. While we picked the 12 best bodybuilders with "staying power" in mind, there are plenty of others to keep an eye on.
Below is a list of more great bodybuilders and fitness influencers to follow:
1) Hadi Choopan: Winner of 2022 Mr Olympia Title (and was close to winning for several years prior).
2) Nick Walker: Winner of 2021 Arnold Classic, 3rd at 2022 Mr. Olympia, 2nd at 2023 Arnold Classic.
3) Ramon Rocha Queiroz: Winner of 2023 Arnold Classic Physique. 2nd at 2022 Mr Olympia Classic Physique (lost to C-Bumstead).
4) Samson Dauda: Winner of 2023 Arnold Classic.
5) Jessie James West: Not a pro bodybuilder but definitely a great fitness Youtuber (who often trains with pro bodybuilders).
6) Will Tennyson: For those who like to learn, watch experiments, and...laugh, Will's Youtube is the place to be. Not a professional bodybuilder, but possibly a professional comedian and definitely a pro Youtuber who is very relatable.
7) Vincenzo Masone: Won the 2022 IFBB World Amateur Championships and is now an IFBB Pro who you will likely see on top soon.
8) SET FOR SET (that's us!):
The most obvious choice on who to follow this year is us! While we love to point to some of the pro bodybuilders, we can tell you that we will constantly be posting the most up-to-date information on all things fitness, including bodybuilding. We have articles on top workouts, in-depth information on a specific muscle exercises, entire programs laid out for you, nutrition tips, meal plans, supplement advice, powerlifting, strongman, and everything else fitness. But our top area is BODYBUILDING.
Check out our recent blogs and be sure to take our workout quiz!
Want more of the best in fitness to follow?
- Top 25 Female Fitness Models
- Top 25 Male Fitness Models
- Top 12 Natural Bodybuilders
- 15 Biggest Bodybuilders of All Time
FAQs about "Best Bodybuilders":
You ask, we answer! Here are some of the most common questions in regards to bodybuilding greats.
Who is the world number 1 bodybuilder?
That's a subjective question, but considering the Mr. Olympia is the greatest achievement in bodybuilding, and the Mr. Olympia Title is the most sought after title, Hadi Choopan is the number 1 bodybuilder in 2023 as he is the reigning champion (2022 Mr Olympia). We'll see what happens come winter with the 2023 Mr Olympia.
Who is the biggest bodybuilder of all time?
Greg Kovacs is often regarded as the phsyicallly biggest bodybuilder of all time. However, many would say Ronnie Coleman is the biggest bodybuilder ever.
If you are interested in learning more, check out our article on the biggest bodybuilders in history. That said, many
Who is the best bodybuilder of all time (strictly physically and competitively)?
Considering the Mr Olympia is the most prestigious competition in bodybuilding, Ronnie Coleman and Lee Haney could be considered the best of all time as they are both tied for the most wins with 8 consecutive titles (which also means they are tied for the most consecutive titles in history).
Nevertheless, Arnold Schwarzenegger is often praised as the "best body" in bodybuilding history.
Who is the most famous bodybuilder of all time?
Arnold Schwarzenegger is easily the most famous bodybuilder of all time. He is still thought of as a bodybuilder, even though his bodybuilding days far precede the rest of his career as an actor, businessman, governor, and public figure. There's also the Arnold Classic, which is continually growing and the best pro bodybuilding competition to be in apart from Mr Olympia.
Follow the Arnold Workout Split
Who is the GOAT of bodybuilding?
Arnold Schwarzenegger. While Arnold surely didn't invent bodybuilding, he did popularize it. Also, he won 7 Mr Olympia's.
Who is the richest bodybuilder of all time?
Arnold Schwarzenegger is the wealthiest bodybuilder in the world with a net worth of approximately $400-450 million.
What are (arguably) the best bodybuilders of past and present by muscle groups?
| Best Bodybuilder Chest |
Arnold Schwarzenegger |
| Best Bodybuilder Legs |
Tom Platz |
| Best Bodybuilder Back |
Big Ramy |
| Best Bodybuilder Shoulders |
Naseer El Sonbaty |
| Best Bodybuilder Biceps |
Roelly Winklaar |
| Best Bodybuilder Triceps |
Roelly Winklaar |
| Best Bodybuilder Abs |
Dexter Jackson or Flex Wheeler |
| Best Bodybuilder Glutes |
Ronnie Coleman |
| Best Bodybuilder Traps |
Johnnie Jackson |
What is the best bodybuilding supplement stack?
If you want to train like a pro, the best (legal) supplements to support health and promote muscle gain and fat loss are whey protein powder, creatine, beta-alanine, casein protein powder (it's like slow-release protein for before bed), omega 3, and vitamin D (10,000IU).
The perfect supplement stack for bodybuilding (only the musts):
- Optimum Nutrition Whey Protein
- Optimum Nutrition Casein Protein
- Optimum Nutrition Micronized Creatine Monohydrate
- Ghost Pre-Workout
**The above links are all from Amazon**
4 Responses
SEYYED MOHAMMAD ZAFFARANCHI
Well composed
Harrison Fuller
I order from Trifecta all the time, wish I was sponsored too lol
SET FOR SET
@DAN, Hadi definitely needs to be on here now! Update coming soon.
Dan Carpenter
Solid. But where’s my guy Hadi Choopan!
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Garett Reid
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