Brandon Curry, the 2019 Mr. Olympia, remains one of the most respected and recognizable figures in the professional bodybuilding world. Known for his full muscle bellies, aesthetic lines, and relentless discipline, Curry has continued to evolve in an increasingly competitive Olympia landscape.
In a recent appearance on Olympia TV, Curry offered a rare glimpse into his latest prep strategy, igniting widespread interest among fans and analysts alike. As the 2025 Mr. Olympia approaches, all eyes are once again on Curry—not just for his past achievements but also for the new tactics he’s bringing to the stage.
Brandon Curry’s Recent Olympia Journey
Since claiming the Mr. Olympia title in 2019, Brandon Curry has consistently remained among the sport’s elite. He followed up his win with strong showings, including runner-up finishes and top-tier placements that underscored his standing as a perennial contender.
However, over the past few years, unique challenges have presented themselves. The rise of competitors like Big Ramy, Hadi Choopan, and Derek Lunsford has shifted the judging focus toward mass and density, pushing Curry to reevaluate aspects of his physique.
Though he’s never lacked symmetry or stage presence, some critics have pointed to specific areas, particularly back thickness and lower body dominance, as potential limiting factors.
Despite these critiques, Curry has maintained a resilient and forward-thinking mindset. With experience on his side and a clear sense of where improvement is needed, he enters the 2025 Olympia season with renewed focus and a targeted plan.
The Big Reveal: Brandon’s Key Move
During his Olympia TV segment, Curry surprised fans by unveiling a key adjustment to his prep: a renewed emphasis on pendulum squats, particularly tailored to increase lower body volume without compromising waistline control or aesthetics.
Unlike traditional barbell squats, the pendulum squat allows for a more controlled movement path with constant tension throughout the range of motion. Curry noted that this exercise has become central to his leg days, providing significant quad stimulation while minimizing spinal compression and joint wear.
Curry views this move as the “missing piece” in refining his lower body presentation. While many competitors rely on heavy barbell lifts to add mass, Curry’s strategy appears centered on hypertrophic efficiency and aesthetic balance—qualities that align with modern Olympia judging trends.
The Science and Strategy Behind the Move
The pendulum squat primarily targets the quadriceps while engaging the glutes and hamstrings to a lesser extent. What sets it apart is the biomechanical alignment: it allows Curry to stay upright through the lift, placing a maximal load on the quads without excessive forward lean.
This positioning not only reduces stress on the lower back but also creates consistent muscular tension, promoting more efficient fiber recruitment in the targeted area. For Curry, the goal is not just size—it’s detail, sweep, and proportion.
Integrating this move into his pro bodybuilding training plan reflects a shift toward precision. He targets each set with purpose, aiming to grow the muscles that judges have previously criticized. Combined with his already impressive upper body structure, improved quad development could significantly sharpen his overall silhouette.
Expert Reactions and Fan Buzz
The bodybuilding community has reacted with keen interest. Several coaches and former Olympia judges praised Curry’s choice, noting that leg development—especially in terms of sweep and separation—has become a key differentiator in recent placings.
Commentators on Olympia TV lauded the strategic nature of the decision, with some pointing out that Curry’s attention to detail demonstrates veteran-level wisdom. Fans on social media platforms and bodybuilding forums have echoed this sentiment, applauding the transparency and discipline behind his approach.
Compared to other Olympia 2025 contenders, Curry’s strategy stands out for its specificity. While some athletes double down on mass or conditioning, Curry is clearly targeting aesthetic harmony—an area where he can outperform even larger competitors when executed perfectly.
How This Move Could Impact Olympia 2025
Fans and judges have always praised Brandon Curry’s physique for its classic structure and upper-body dominance. However, to secure another Mr. Olympia title, developing the lower body remains a crucial frontier. The pendulum squat strategy could address one of the few recurring critiques in his package: thigh volume and definition from the front and side poses.
If Curry’s execution over the prep season leads to a more dramatic quad sweep and sharper lines without sacrificing his signature V-taper, he could present one of the most balanced physiques on stage. Such refinement might allow him to edge out competitors who rely more heavily on mass but lack the same visual symmetry.
Judging panels in recent years have emphasized the importance of proportion, conditioning, and flow. Curry’s targeted use of this technique may align more closely with those criteria, positioning him as a serious Olympia 2025 contender once again.
Lessons for Everyday Lifters
While the pendulum squat may seem like a high-level movement reserved for elite bodybuilders, everyday gym-goers can also benefit from incorporating it into their routine. The machine’s controlled arc and joint-friendly mechanics make it a safer and more effective choice for hypertrophy-focused leg training.
Lifters without access to a pendulum squat machine can mimic modified versions using a hack squat or Smith machine setup. They maintain an upright torso and focus on quad-dominant tension. Prioritizing form, tempo, and consistent load can yield significant results without heavy spinal loading.
Brandon Curry’s choice illustrates a broader truth in elite-level bodybuilding: refinement often matters more than brute force. Strategic training, attention to weak points, and exercise selection based on biomechanics are principles that benefit all lifters, regardless of experience or goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Brandon Curry choose the pendulum squat as his key move?
Curry believes the pendulum squat allows for maximal quad stimulation while preserving waist size and reducing injury risk. It aligns with his goal of improving leg aesthetics and balance, particularly to meet the standards of judging at the Olympia.
Can beginners benefit from pendulum squats?
Yes. Pendulum squats are joint-friendly and provide a stable platform for building quad strength and size. When performed with proper technique and controlled loading, they’re suitable for lifters of all levels.
Will this move alone help Curry win Mr. Olympia 2025?
While no single exercise guarantees victory, this strategic adjustment targets one of Curry’s key areas for improvement. If successfully implemented, it could enhance his overall package and influence final placements.
