Martin Fitzwater's Arnold Prep
Bodybuilding frontrunner Martin Fitzwater shared his intense chest pump workout on March 2, just three days before the 2026 Arnold Classic where he's considered a top contender for the Men's Open title. His pre-show regimen offers insights for anyone chasing muscle gains and peak physique conditioning.
Fitzwater's journey into bodybuilding was preceded by a successful high school and collegiate athletic career in Wyoming, where he was a three-time state champion in shot put and a two-time champion in discus. This foundation in explosive strength sports provided a solid base for his transition into professional bodybuilding. His breakthrough year came in 2024, when he won the Detroit Pro, placed second at the New York Pro, and then shocked many by securing a fourth-place finish in his Mr. Olympia debut. This rapid ascent through the ranks of the Men's Open division quickly established him as a formidable new talent. Under the guidance of his coach Stefan Kienzl, Fitzwater is known for his intense training regimen. He has also been mentored by bodybuilding veteran Branch Warren. His training partnership with fellow IFBB Pro Brett Wilkin has been a key factor in his development since committing to the sport full-time in 2020. The 2026 Arnold Classic boasts a record-breaking $750,000 prize for the Men's Open winner, a purse even larger than that of the Mr. Olympia. This has attracted a stacked lineup of top-tier competitors, including former Mr. Olympia and two-time Arnold Classic champion Brandon Curry, 2022 Mr. Olympia Hadi Choopan, and Nick Walker. Fitzwater's chest workout, shared just days before the competition, included exercises like the Arsenal chest press, Smith machine press, and cable chest flys. This final push is part of a meticulous preparation that has seen him consume over 4,000 calories and 500 grams of carbohydrates on a single day during his prep. Nicknamed "The Martian," Fitzwater is recognized for his impressive muscle density and symmetry. His competitive journey began in 2017, and he earned his IFBB Pro Card in 2020 by winning the heavyweight class at the NPC North American Championships.
