CBUM's Calorie Intake on a Bulk: A Detailed Look
Classic Physique champion Chris Bumstead, known as CBUM, is celebrated not only for his aesthetic physique but also for his diligent approach to nutrition. His offseason, or bulking phase, is a period of high-volume eating to maximize muscle growth. The exact number of calories CBUM consumes can fluctuate based on his weight, how close he is to a competition, and how his body responds. However, public records from his YouTube videos and interviews provide a clear picture of his dietary strategy over the years.
One of the most referenced examples of his bulking diet comes from a 2022 vlog where he broke down a day of eating that totaled 5,203 calories. This intake was comprised of specific macronutrient targets to support his training and recovery. It is a testament to the fact that for elite bodybuilders, eating can be as demanding as training. More recently, in a late 2024 vlog, a slightly more modest target was noted at 4,133 calories, with the intention to increase if the scale wasn't moving. This variation highlights the importance of constantly adapting a diet based on real-time feedback from the body, a key principle that applies to all levels of training.
The Macronutrient Breakdown for a CBUM Bulk
While the total calorie number is impressive, the distribution of those calories across macronutrients is what truly dictates the results. CBUM's diet is a masterclass in balancing protein, carbohydrates, and fats to achieve optimal muscle growth while controlling body fat gain. His strategy follows the classic bodybuilding approach, with a few personal touches.
Protein: As a foundational macro for muscle repair and growth, protein is prioritized. A common guideline, which CBUM follows, is around 1 gram per pound of bodyweight. At a bodyweight of roughly 250 pounds during his bulk, this translates to around 250-290 grams of protein per day. This ensures his muscles have the building blocks they need, especially with the high-volume training he undergoes.
Fats: Healthy fats are crucial for hormonal function and overall health. CBUM aims for roughly 20-30% of his total daily calories to come from fat. This would be approximately 156 grams of fat on a 5,200-calorie diet. Sources often include olive oil, almond butter, and avocados.
Carbohydrates: The remaining calories are filled with carbohydrates, which serve as the primary fuel source for his intense workouts. This can lead to very high carb intake, with one day showing 666 grams. He strategically times his carbohydrate consumption, with a large meal post-workout to replenish glycogen stores. Sources include rice, pasta, bagels, and potatoes.
Staple Foods in CBUM's Offseason
CBUM's diet is built on a foundation of nutrient-dense, whole foods, despite the sheer volume. His meal plan is not about eating 'dirty,' but rather consuming clean, high-quality calories to facilitate growth without excessive fat gain.
A list of staple foods in his bulking diet often includes:
- Lean protein sources: Ground turkey, ground beef, chicken breast, and his own CBUM Itholate Protein powder.
- Complex carbohydrates: Brown rice, white rice, sweet potatoes, and pasta.
- Healthy fats: Olive oil, almond butter, and avocado.
- Fruits and Vegetables: Bagels, blueberries, raspberries, and assorted vegetables for fiber and micronutrients.
- Supplements: In addition to protein powder, he uses glutamine and fiber supplements to aid with digestion.
CBUM's Bulking Diet vs. His Cutting Diet
For comparison, it is valuable to look at the stark contrast between his bulking and cutting phases. As competition approaches, the goal shifts from mass-building to shedding body fat while preserving muscle, which requires a significant calorie reduction.
| Aspect | Bulking (Offseason) | Cutting (Pre-Competition) |
|---|---|---|
| Calorie Intake | ~4,500–5,200+ calories per day | Sub-3,000 calories per day |
| Carbohydrate Intake | Very high, up to 666 grams | Significantly lower, around 250 grams |
| Fat Intake | Moderate, around 150-160 grams | Low, around 30 grams |
| Protein Intake | High, around 290 grams | Remains high to preserve muscle mass, around 330 grams |
| Food Choices | A wider variety of foods, including higher carb sources like pasta. | Leaner cuts of meat, white fish, low-sugar vegetables, and oats. |
| Training Intensity | High, with a focus on strength and mass. | High, with increased cardio to burn fat. |
The Takeaway for Aspiring Bodybuilders
Chris Bumstead's diet is a reflection of his elite status and genetic potential. The quantity of food he consumes during a bulk is far beyond what most recreational lifters would require. His own advice, as quoted on Instagram, emphasizes the importance of individualization: "What works for you, works for you". He recommends starting with a slight caloric surplus, perhaps 200-300 calories over maintenance, and slowly adjusting based on progress. This controlled approach prevents unnecessary fat gain while still fostering muscle growth.
Ultimately, the lesson from CBUM's bulking strategy is not to blindly copy his extreme calorie intake. Instead, it's about adopting his principles: consistency, smart macro distribution, reliance on whole foods, and diligent tracking to achieve your own physique goals. His discipline and focus on digestion are hallmarks of a world-class athlete and are lessons that can be applied by anyone on a mass-gaining journey.
Conclusion
In summary, the number of calories Chris Bumstead consumes on a bulk can range between roughly 4,500 and over 5,200 calories, with figures varying depending on the specific offseason period. This extremely high intake is fueled by a precise macronutrient split that prioritizes protein for muscle repair, high carbohydrates for energy, and moderate healthy fats for hormone function. His diet, based on clean, nutrient-dense foods, and his advice on tracking and individualization, provide a valuable framework for aspiring lifters, though his exact caloric intake is not a suitable target for the average person.
For more detailed information on Chris Bumstead's off-season diets over the years, check out the in-depth breakdown on Barbend.com, which covers various diet updates and calorie counts.
