Shawn Ray Critiques Modern Bodybuilding

[MuscleMecca Crew]

Professional bodybuilding extends far beyond muscularity and physical size; it demands aesthetic refinement, artistic expression, and captivating stage presence. Shawn Ray, an esteemed bodybuilding veteran who competed in 13 Mr. Olympia contests and secured podium finishes five times, recently voiced significant concerns regarding the modern state of pro bodybuilding. Ray emphasizes that contemporary bodybuilding has lost much of the artistic elegance and individuality that previously defined the sport.

Bodybuilders from the golden era, including Arnold Schwarzenegger, Frank Zane, and Lee Labrada, were revered not just for their physiques, but for their distinctive and charismatic posing routines. Schwarzenegger’s memorable three-quarter turn and Sergio Oliva’s iconic victory stance showcased creative individuality and artistic mastery that captivated audiences and elevated the sport’s appeal. Shawn Ray argues that modern bodybuilding competitions prioritize mandatory poses and muscle mass over creative presentation, leading to a noticeable decline in artistic expression.


Shawn Ray, bodybuilding hall of famer, commentator 2x Arnold Classic Champion and Mr Olympia runner-up expresses his opinions on modern day bodybuilding and what he dislikes about the current situation such as everyone being mentally weak and not in charge of their own careers.

We talk about Nick Walker, Bob Cicherillo (The Voice of Bodybuilding), the past Arnold Classic, the fight for the Olympia thrown between Derek Lunsford, Hadi Choopan and Samson Dauda and the role of coaches, being selfmade and why back in the day bodybuilders were still artists when they are now just executive athletes.
We also address good and bad coaching and Shawn's on career and regrets.

How Pro Bodybuilding Lost Its Artistic Edge​

To thoroughly explore Shawn Ray’s viewpoint, it is necessary to examine the factors driving the reduction of artistry in modern bodybuilding. One significant issue is the industry-wide shift from personalized posing routines to standardized mandatory poses. Earlier generations of bodybuilders crafted their own routines, which allowed them to present their physiques artistically and uniquely. Currently, athletes adhere closely to rigidly prescribed poses designed to meet specific judging criteria, limiting opportunities for individual creativity.

Another contributing factor identified by Ray is the growing dominance of coaches and trainers in athletes’ preparations. Historically, bodybuilding legends like Lee Haney, Kevin Levrone, and Dorian Yates took personal responsibility for their diets, training regimens, and posing routines. Their success came from extensive trial-and-error experiences that reflected their individuality and personal artistry. In contrast, today’s athletes frequently follow detailed programs constructed entirely by coaches, trainers, and nutritionists. This tightly managed environment often diminishes their creative freedom, reducing their capacity to showcase unique artistic flair and independent innovation on stage.

Importance of Presentation and Posing in Professional Bodybuilding​

Historically, bodybuilding competitions placed a significant emphasis on posing skills, presentation quality, and stage charisma. Exceptional posing had the power to enhance athletes’ physiques, highlighting their strengths and cleverly disguising weaknesses through visual illusion. Athletes invested considerable time in perfecting transitions, rhythm, and the ability to emotionally connect with judges and audiences alike. Shawn Ray himself was widely praised for his exceptional attention to artistic detail during posing routines, showcasing how skillful presentation could significantly influence competition results.

In recent times, however, judges have increasingly favored muscle size and extreme conditioning, placing less importance on artistic presentation. Consequently, modern athletes have limited incentives to dedicate substantial effort to posing mastery, resulting in less dynamic and less memorable stage performances.

Can the Classic Physique Division Revive Artistry?​

The introduction of the Classic Physique division represented an effort by bodybuilding authorities to recapture the aesthetics and artistic sensibilities of earlier eras. Athletes in this category prioritize symmetry, proportionality, and refined presentation, echoing the elegance associated with bodybuilding’s golden age. Shawn Ray acknowledges the value of Classic Physique, but he suggests its existence has inadvertently justified diminished artistic standards within the Open class, allowing open competitors to remain focused solely on mass and mandatory poses.

Though the Classic Physique division attempts to preserve artistry, Ray argues that the Open class, which historically embodied the highest expression of bodybuilding artistry, must also recommit to elevating presentation standards to safeguard the sport’s cultural heritage.

Athletes Pushing Back Against the Decline: Derek Lunsford’s Example​

Not all current bodybuilders have accepted the diminished role of artistic presentation. Notably, Derek Lunsford, winner of the prestigious 2025 Arnold Classic, represents a potential renaissance for bodybuilding artistry. Lunsford deliberately honed his posing skills and earned the Arnold Classic’s Best Poser Award along with substantial prize money. His success demonstrates the continued appreciation for artistry and presentation by judges and audiences, suggesting that athletes who dedicate themselves to posing excellence may have a competitive advantage.

Lunsford’s achievements illustrate that despite prevailing trends, opportunities still exist for athletes who are committed to artistic and expressive bodybuilding. His example provides a model that younger competitors can follow, potentially reigniting enthusiasm for artistic stage presence and individuality.

How Bodybuilding Can Restore Its Artistic Heritage​

Several proactive strategies can help professional bodybuilding restore its artistic integrity. Firstly, bodybuilding organizations can shift competition criteria to place greater emphasis on creative and individual posing routines. Increased recognition, awards, and financial incentives for best posers could inspire athletes to prioritize artistry in their preparations.

Additionally, training programs should encourage independent development of posing routines, reducing excessive dependence on external coaching guidance. Educational seminars and workshops focusing specifically on artistic expression, presentation skills, and stage charisma would benefit emerging athletes.

Finally, judges and competition organizers could prioritize artistic evaluation alongside muscle size and definition. By rewarding creativity, charisma, and originality, competitions could motivate athletes to rediscover the artistic heritage that once defined bodybuilding’s greatest moments.

A Vision for the Future of Bodybuilding​

The future trajectory of professional bodybuilding hinges on consciously reviving its artistic heritage. Shawn Ray’s insightful critique serves as a vital reminder of the intrinsic connection between bodybuilding excellence and artistic mastery. Reemphasizing the artistic elements in posing and presentation, celebrating individuality, and reducing rigid coaching influence will collectively strengthen bodybuilding’s appeal, ensuring its cultural legacy continues thriving for generations to come.