Terrence Ruffin wants to add more size to his physique – but also keeps his steroid use to “moderate” levels due to his blood pressure
Bodybuilding standout Terrence Ruffin is preparing for a high-profile return to the stage, targeting the 2025 Pittsburgh Pro. In a revealing update shared on December 3, 2024, Terrence Ruffin opened up about his plans to refine his physique, address his approach to performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs), and take on rising competitors in the Classic Physique division.
Terrence Ruffin’s resume speaks for itself. The two-time Arnold Classic champion remains a dominant force in the Classic Physique category. His most recent competitive success came in 2023 when he placed fifth at the Olympia and followed up with a victory at the Sheru Classic Pro.
However, his momentum came to a halt in 2024 due to an elbow injury. This setback kept him out of the 2024 Mr. Olympia, which saw reigning champion Chris Bumstead clinch his sixth consecutive title before announcing his retirement. While others competed, Ruffin focused on recovery and growth, using the time off to prepare for his future.
Aiming for Size to Compete with Top Contenders
As Terrence Ruffin charts his path forward, his primary focus is building size to match competitors like Mike Sommerfeld, who has emerged as a serious threat in the Classic Physique category. Ruffin explained his strategy for adding muscle in key areas to maximize his chances against the division’s best.
“I think overall size is needed,” Ruffin shared. “I saw pictures from last year versus Mike [Sommerfeld], and I was like, okay, yeah, I need to be a bit bigger now—he’s gotten a lot bigger.”
Specifically, Ruffin plans to target his arms, hamstrings, back, and lats, aiming for a more dramatic and balanced physique.
“My side chest—I would definitely like a little bit more in my tricep in that pose, a little bit more on the hamstring as well. In the back pose, just more back. Lats, maybe some more lats in the abs and thigh. My waist is small, but I don’t have the widest shoulders, so I think a little bit more lats would benefit me to kind of build up that taper a little bit more,” Ruffin explained.
Strategic Contest Plans for 2025
Terrence Ruffin confirmed his participation in the 2025 Pittsburgh Pro, marking his official return to the competition circuit. He’s also considering appearances at the Detroit Pro and the New York Pro, depending on his progress and recovery timeline.
“I got to qualify,” Ruffin said. “I would love to do the Detroit Pro, but I can’t promise that because with the stem cell treatment and the time off, it’ll be cutting it close. You may see me there depending on how I’m looking. My coach is interested in me doing it, so maybe, but we’ll see.”
With a tentative plan to compete in late March or early May, Ruffin aims to test his improvements before returning to the Mr. Olympia stage later in the year.
“Moderate” Steroid Use and Genetic Considerations
In addition to discussing his competition goals, Terrence Ruffin provided insight into his use of PEDs, describing his regimen as “moderate.”
“With me, I believe I’m more moderate. I’m not super high. I’m not super low. I’ve coached guys that reached the top of their limit with just 500 migs of test,” Ruffin revealed. “I definitely do more than him, but I think with me, there’s a lot of things when it comes to genetics and gear.”
Ruffin explained that his genetic predispositions and health concerns, particularly blood pressure, prevent him from adopting extreme steroid cycles.
“My liver is fine, but blood pressure, in particular, is the thing for me. So if I was ever to do anything crazy, I wouldn’t be able to compete for very long at all. I’m not high whatsoever because I’ve seen some crazy shit, but I’m not like a genetic freak,” he said.
By prioritizing health, Terrence Ruffin ensures his longevity in a sport where overuse of PEDs can often lead to dangerous consequences.
A New Chapter in Classic Physique
Terrence Ruffin’s 2025 campaign represents a fresh start, with Chris Bumstead’s retirement creating new opportunities at the top of the division. While the competitive landscape will be different, Ruffin’s determination to refine his physique and his focus on calculated preparation signal that he’s ready to reclaim his spot among the best.
As Ruffin’s fans eagerly await his return, his progress in the coming months will be closely monitored. Whether in Pittsburgh, Detroit, or New York, Ruffin’s next steps will set the stage for what promises to be an exciting chapter in his bodybuilding journey.
