A list of the 30 most powerful people in the Industry & Business of bodybuilding, strength sports, and fitness of 2024
Presented by Generation Iron, the bodybuilding, strength sports, and fitness world is filled with a whose who of talented athletes, businessmen, and personalities, all of them leaving their own impact on the health and wellness industry. Generation Iron’s Power 30 honors thirty unique and important individuals who have left their mark on the bodybuilding, fitness, and strength sports industry this year.
The Power 30 is our annual attempt to create a ranking, through in depth discussions amongst our editorial staff, of the 30 athletes, CEOs, and personalities that have made an impact on bodybuilding this year.
30 Most Powerful People In Bodybuilding & Fitness 2024
30. Angel Bajana
Angel Bajana is a prominent fitness trainer, bodybuilder, and entrepreneur from New York well known as the founder of Elev8tion Fitness Gyms. His expertise in the gym business from managing Iron Addicts in Miami to now running over five gym locations across Florida makes Angel one of the most successful entrepreneurs in the gym space. Angel is also known for his dedication to educating his followers about launching businesses, effective training methods and maintaining a balanced lifestyle. His influence extends beyond social media, as he continues to inspire and guide individuals in their fitness journeys with a blend of experience, passion, and practical advice. Generation Iron currently has a film in production with Angel about the Elev8tion Fitness and his journey as an entrepreneur.
29. Dorian Hamilton
Dorian Hamilton is a notable figure in the fitness and bodybuilding community, recognized for his achievements as a competitive bodybuilder and his work as a coach and owner of HD Muscle. Dorian has made HD Muscle a prominent brand in the sports nutrition space alongside his brother Noah Hamilton from Burlington, Ontario. His expertise extends beyond coaching and sports nutrition to include operating gyms such as RAW Gym in Stuart Florida. Dorian’s has become a respected and influential figure among athletes, entrepreneurs and fitness enthusiasts alike. His contributions to the fitness industry are marked by a passion for excellence and a drive to inspire and guide others on their fitness journeys.
28. Joey Swoll
Joey Swoll is a bodybuilder and fitness influencer known for his massive size and shreds and has shared multiple muscle-building articles about nutrition and exercise, and he also co-founded the reputable supplement company “Shredz”. Aside from that, he has authored the fitness guide “Train Harder Than Me”. Recently, Joey’s gym positivity videos have gained some serious traction online across all social media platforms and this has led to him being featured in many popular publications such as British GQ and the New York Post.
27. George Farah
George Farah is a highly respected bodybuilding coach and nutritionist, widely regarded as one of the top trainers in the bodybuilding world. Originally from Lebanon, George moved to the United States and transitioned from a competitive bodybuilding career to become a sought-after coach known for his expertise in preparing athletes for major competitions like Mr. Olympia and the Arnold Classic.
He has worked with some of the biggest names in the sport and was featured as Kai Greene’s coach in Generation Iron 1. Farah has helped many bodybuilder’s achieve peak conditioning and performance through personalized training and nutrition plans. Farah’s approach is known for its precision and effectiveness, focusing on optimizing every aspect of an athlete’s preparation, from diet and supplementation to posing and mental conditioning.
Despite facing personal health challenges, including a battle with cancer and a shooting, he still trained athletes from his hospital bed (which was profiled in his documentary “The Guru”). George Farah remains a prominent and influential figure in the bodybuilding community, respected for his deep knowledge, experience, and commitment to the sport
26. Jim Stoppani
Dr. Jim Stoppani is a Yale-educated PhD who has devoted his life to studying all things involving exercise, nutrition, and supplementation. Jim also worked on the editorial staff at Weider Publications for 11 years, where he eventually served as the Senior Science Editor for several well known magazines such as Muscle & Fitness and FLEX. Jim is also the personal health consultant for several celebrity clients including Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, and Jim also wrote The Book on weightlifting: Jim Stoppani’s Encyclopedia of Muscle & Strength.
25. Ali Gilbert
Ali Gilbert stands out as a true pioneer and expert in her field.
With a deep passion for helping men get jacked, lean and optimize their testosterone, Ali has earned the well-deserved title of “The Queen of Men’s Health.”
As an entrepreneur, she’s built a highly reputable coaching brand, Silverback Coaching, helping high performers, CEO’s, and thought leaders impacting the lives of 1000’s of men across the world. Recognized highly by Muscle & Fitness, EliteFTS, Mark Bell Power Project, Marek Health, she spreads the message moving forward men’s health on various podcasts, conferences and events both here in the US and internationally.
She is the founder of the Silverback Summit, the only men’s health event bringing together the world’s leading experts in TRT, fitness, nutrition + business.
24. Fouad Abiad
Fouad Abiad is a well-known professional bodybuilder, coach, and fitness influencer, recognized for his successful career in the IFBB Pro League and his contributions to the bodybuilding community. Born on October 15, 1978, in Canada, Fouad gained prominence for his impressive physique, characterized by dense muscle mass and balanced symmetry, which earned him the nickname “Hoss.” Throughout his competitive career, he participated in numerous prestigious bodybuilding competitions, including the Arnold Classic and Mr. Olympia, where he consistently placed among the top contenders.
After retiring from competition, Fouad transitioned into coaching, where he continues to influence the sport by mentoring up-and-coming bodybuilders. He is also the host of the popular “Real Bodybuilding Podcast,” where he discusses bodybuilding, fitness, and nutrition with industry experts and athletes. Fouad’s passion for the sport and his no-nonsense approach to training and diet have made him a respected figure in the bodybuilding world.
23. Kai Greene
Always looking to embrace different facets of his creative personality, Kai Greene has become one of the rare crossover successes in the bodybuilding world. Having starred in Generation Iron, featured in Stranger Things Season 2 and endorsed by brands such as RedCon1, Reign Energy, and collaborated with a who’s who in the fitness and bodybuilding space, Kai Greene has proved as popular as ever.
If his millions of followers weren’t proof enough, his foray into different forms of entertainment showcases just how in demand Greene is. When fans view his recent documentary, Kai, the world will learn everything about the talented bodybuilder’s life.
22. Brian Powers
Brian is the Global Director for the Arnold Sports Festival, which is one of the largest sports festivals in the world and hosts one of the biggest bodybuilding events of the year – the Arnold Classic. The Arnold Classic today features over 40 sports and 60 events the first week of March.
Recently, the Arnold Classic had announced that it would raise the prize money for the Men’s Open Bodybuilding division to $500,000 for first place, rivaling the Mr. Olympia. The Arnold Classic is more than just bodybuilding, however, as they host strength sports, martial arts, and a multi-day expo for all types of athletes, and Brian Powers plays a big role in making sure this ship is run right.
21. Don Saladino
Don Saladino is a highly respected celebrity fitness trainer, entrepreneur, and wellness expert known for his work with Hollywood stars, athletes, and fitness enthusiasts. With over two decades of experience in the fitness industry, Don has built a reputation for transforming the physiques of some of the biggest names in entertainment, including Ryan Reynolds, Hugh Jackman, and Scarlett Johansson, helping them prepare for physically demanding roles. He is the founder of Drive495, a high-end gym in New York City, where he combines functional training with tailored nutrition plans to achieve remarkable results. Don’s expertise extends beyond personal training; he is also a successful online coach, offering fitness programs and guidance to a global audience. His holistic approach to health, focusing on sustainable fitness, proper nutrition, and mental well-being, has made him a trusted figure in the wellness community, inspiring countless individuals to achieve their fitness goals.
20. Matt Jansen
Matt Jansen is a major authority in the bodybuilding community. Having trained the likes of the late Dallas McCarver, Nathan De Asha, and most recently helping craft the physique of the Nick “The Mutant” Walker, it’s safe to say Jansen is a coach of repute. Jansen has also helped Shaun Clarida realize his dream as a 212 Olympia king – showing that he has the wealth of knowledge to turn the top pros into champions.
Aside from that, Jansen is a co-owner of RAW Nutriton, and will be featured in a documentary produced by Generation Iron about Matt Jansen, Dom Iacovone (his partner), and Chris Bumstead on their friendship and how they built Raw Nutrition and Revive into blockbuster brands. The doc is called “The Raw Story.”
19. Dorian Yates
The 6 time Mr. Olympia champion changed the sport forever, bringing a never before seen look to the stage with his size and conditioning, and for that he is known as one of the most iconic bodybuilders in the history of the sport. Also known as “The Shadow”, Dorian Yates was the original mass monster, though now he focuses on spreading the message of focusing on overall health, he is nothing short of influential.
18. Mike O’Hearn
A long-time and avid bodybuilder, Mike O’Hearn is a staple in the industry. The self-proclaimed natural bodybuilder has taken his fair share of criticism over the years. Despite the detractors and the naysayers, Mike O’Hearn has proven time and again to be a truly impressive bodybuilder. Most recently, O’Hearn has launched The Mike O’Hearn Show co-produced by Generation Iron to give audiences a deeper look into his life including his training and his opinions on the latest happenings in the bodybuilding world.
In addition to this, O’Hearn appeared in the 2023 feature film – Magazine Dreams.
17. Derek “More Plates More Dates”
Derek Munro, known online as “More Plates More Dates,” is a prominent fitness influencer, entrepreneur, and content creator renowned for his in-depth analysis of bodybuilding, fitness, and self-improvement topics. His YouTube channel, More Plates More Dates, has gained a large following for its detailed breakdowns of performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs), supplements, and hormone optimization, as well as his candid discussions on health, fitness, and dating.
Derek’s content stands out for its scientific rigor and evidence-based approach, often delving into complex topics like anabolic steroids, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), and biohacking. He is also the founder of Marek Health, a telemedicine clinic specializing in hormone optimization and health services. Derek’s expertise and transparency have made him a trusted voice in the fitness and wellness community, attracting viewers who appreciate his honest and well-researched content.
16. Sam Sulek
Sam Sulek is a rising fitness influencer and bodybuilder known for his impressive physique, engaging content, and candid approach to fitness. Gaining popularity on platforms like YouTube and Instagram, Sam shares his journey in bodybuilding, offering workout routines, diet tips, and insights into the bodybuilding lifestyle. His down-to-earth demeanor and relatable content have attracted a growing following, particularly among younger audiences looking for inspiration and guidance in their fitness journeys. Sam’s commitment to transparency, whether discussing his training regimen or the challenges he faces, has helped him establish a strong connection with his audience, making him a notable figure in the online fitness community.
15 Flex Lewis
James “Flex” Lewis, is a legendary professional bodybuilder from Wales, celebrated for his dominance in the IFBB Pro League’s 212 Division. Born on November 15, 1983, in Llanelli, Wales, Flex earned his nickname “Flex” due to his remarkable flexibility as a young rugby player before transitioning into bodybuilding. He is best known for winning the prestigious Mr. Olympia 212 title a record seven times consecutively from 2012 to 2018, making him one of the most successful athletes in the division’s history. Renowned for his incredible muscle density, balanced physique, and relentless work ethic, Flex Lewis is widely regarded as one of the greatest 212 bodybuilders of all time.
After retiring from competitive bodybuilding in 2020, he has continued to contribute to the fitness industry through various ventures, including gym ownership, coaching, and media appearances, inspiring countless athletes and fans around the world. He also has a podcast, the Straight Outta The Lair Podcast with Flex Lewis and his extraordinary guests, where they discuss strategies for overcoming obstacles in life.
14.Eddie Hall
Edward Stephen Hall, or better known as Eddie Hall, is a very well known professional strongman. He has won UK’s Strongest Man on multiple occasions and he is also a winner of Britain’s Strongest Man, as well as England’s Strongest Man. Eddie even deadlifted half a ton, which was him pulling a 1,102 lb deadlift.
13. Dominic Iacavone
Dominic Iacovone is a health and fitness expert, entrepreneur, and social media influencer known for his work in biohacking and hormone optimization. He gained recognition for his expertise in helping individuals enhance their physical and mental performance through personalized approaches to health, including hormone replacement therapy (HRT), nutrition, and fitness strategies. Dominic is a founder Raw Nutrition and Revive (now called Relive) and has worked alongside Chris Bumstead and Matt Jansen to create one of the fastest growing supplement brands in the business.
Dom Iacovone will also star in the upcoming documentary, “The Raw Story,” chronicling the rise of Raw Nutrition and Relive alongside his partners and friends in brotherhood – Chris Bumstead and Matt Jansen.
12. Hany Rambod
An over twenty-time Olympia winning coach, Hany Rambod is the premiere bodybuilding trainer of our time. Helping many pros reach the promise land and beyond, Rambod has helped Jay Cutler, Phil Heath, and Jeremy Buendia obtain Olympia glory on multiple occasions.
These days Rambod is helping Hadi Choopan in his own quest for the Sandow and was behind the scenes with Derek Lunsford as he earned the Olympia 212 title AND a Men’s Open title. Rambod still coaches Lunsford who is now in the open class, and he also coaches Chris Bumstead who is dominating the Classic Physique division.
11. Lee Labrada
Lee Labrada is a renowned bodybuilder, fitness expert, and entrepreneur who rose to prominence in the 1980s and 1990s as one of the sport’s top competitors. Born on March 8, 1960, in Havana, Cuba, Labrada immigrated to the United States, where he pursued a career in bodybuilding. He earned a reputation for his aesthetic physique, known for its symmetry, proportion, and classic lines, which led him to achieve high placements in prestigious competitions, including Mr. Olympia, where he consistently placed in the top four.
Beyond his competitive career, Labrada has significantly impacted the fitness industry as the founder of Labrada Nutrition, a company offering a wide range of supplements and nutrition products. His commitment to health and fitness has made him an influential figure, and he continues to inspire new generations of bodybuilders and fitness enthusiasts.
10. Jesse James West
Jesse James West is a popular fitness influencer, YouTuber, and social media personality known for his engaging content centered around fitness, bodybuilding, and lifestyle. Born on January 25, 2000, in New Jersey, Jesse has built a large following by sharing workout routines, nutrition tips, and challenges with a charismatic and approachable style. His content often features collaborations with other fitness personalities and athletes, making his channel a go-to destination for those looking to improve their fitness and gain inspiration. Jesse’s energetic and positive approach to fitness has resonated with a wide audience, helping him become one of the prominent figures in the online fitness community.
9. Tamer El Guindy
Tamer El Guindy is a prominent figure in the world of bodybuilding, known for his impressive achievements both as a competitor and as an advocate for the sport. He gained recognition as a top-tier bodybuilder, earning the title of Mr. USA and competing in prestigious events like the IFBB Pro circuit.
Beyond his competitive success, El Guindy is now the #1 promoter of the IFBB Pro and NPC worldwide via his brand, Muscle Contest. With over 200 shows across Brazil and the USA, El Guindy is also celebrated for his contributions to the bodybuilding community through his work as a coach, mentor, and promoter. He has played a pivotal role in nurturing new talent and promoting the sport, helping to shape the careers of many aspiring bodybuilders. El Guindy’s dedication to bodybuilding extends from Brasil and his involvement as the producer of the Mr. Olympia show in Las Vegas proves to be pivotal in the industry today. His various media projects, including documentaries and publications help highlight the challenges and triumphs within the sport, solidifying his legacy as a multifaceted leader in the fitness industry.
8. Dan Solomon
Chief Olympia Officer Dan Solomon is at the heart of the 200-billion-dollar fitness industry. Responsible for putting on the Olympia year after year, you could argue that Solomon is the most important behind-the-scenes figure in bodybuilding today, which is why he will be starring an an upcoming documentary on the Mr. Olympia’s 60th anniversary with Generation Iron is producing.
Always looking to bring something fresh to the table, it will be interesting to see where Dan Solomon leads the Olympia as it approaches the 60th anniversary show in October 2024.
7. Ronnie Coleman
The eight-time Mr. Olympia king, Ronnie Coleman has remained popular and relevant in modern times through his continued motivational training to his successful supplement line. Despite his array of unfortunate injuries, Ronnie Coleman still trains and remains positive, which is something all of us can afford to learn from.
6. Derek Lunsford
Derek Lunsford is a professional bodybuilder, coached by none other than Hany Rambod, who won the 2021 Mr. Olympia title for the 212 division. Following that, he was even offered a special invitation to compete at the 2022 Olympia in the men’s open class, where many did not expect him to excel due to his shorter stature, but he placed second, right on the heels of the “Persian Wolf” Hadi Choopan, who is also coached by Rambod. Then in 2023, Lunsford took home the title in an intense show.
Besides that, he offers coaching advice on top of his insane work ethic to get the massive physique he has.
5. Jay Cutler
Even after retiring with his 4 Mr. Olympia titiles, Jay Cutler is still training hard and remaining relevant in the bodybuilding community, always spreading knowledge and collaborating with other popular names in the industry such as Ronnie Coleman and Jesse James West. His Cutler Nutrition and TRIFECTA nutrition brands have exploded in recognition and popularity. His podcast has also become a great source of information for avid fans and Cutler’s ability to pick winners has made his one of the most important voices in bodybuilding today.
4. Jake Wood
The Olympia owner himself Jake Wood has done well to keep the brand afloat after purchasing the event and brand name from AMI, being only the third individual to own the Olympia. The pandemic could have destroyed, or at the very least cancelled, the Olympia event in these last couple years, but through his ingenuity and business smarts Jake Wood was able to overcome the hardship and succeed where others would have faltered.
Aside from just owning the Olympia brand, Wood is considered a key component of bringing back the Ms. Olympia into the schedule. And he continues to be determined to transform the biggest event in the year into a more accessible, more finely produced competition worth of its title.
Jake Wood will be featured an an upcoming, untitled documentary on the Mr. Olympia.
3. Arnold Schwarzenegger
A pioneer in the sport of bodybuilding and possibly its most popular figure to date, Arnold Schwarzenegger continues to sit atop the industry as revered royalty. Schwarzenegger still manages to put on one of the best and most important shows of the year, the annual Arnold Classic. As his recent documentary has showed, no matter the industry, from bodybuilding to movies, Schwarzenegger has always dominated whatever space he’s entered making him the most influential fitness figure of all-time.
2. Jim Manion
Undoubtedly one of the most influential and powerful individuals in bodybuilding, Jim Manion continues to be a major entity within the bodybuilding world. The combination of his sharp mind, business expertise, and leadership has made sure that the IFBB Pro League is still standing tall as the most popular bodybuilding leagues in the sport. The mastermind behind all the machinations in the IFBB Pro League, Jim Manion has proven to be the glue that keeps the bodybuilding world together.
1. Chris Bumstead
The five-time Classic Physique Olympia champion, Chris Bumstead has proven himself to be one of the most popular figures in bodybuilding. Sporting a powerful and aesthetic physique unmatched by his peers, Bumstead has become very influential in the industry with his likable personality and transparency on controversial topics such as anabolic steroids. With his win at the 2023 Olympia, Bumstead further cemented his legacy as the quintessential Classic Physique champion.
Now with Five titles, Bumstead is looking to further his legacy as champion and has even hinted at a transition into the men’s open division. He also will be featured in the upcoming documentary, “The Raw Story”.
