Top 8 Fitness Influencers You Need to Follow: 2025 Edition

The fitness world in 2024 is brimming with influencers who are breaking boundaries, inspiring change, and bringing innovation to how we train, eat, and think about health. Whether you're a gym veteran or a beginner looking for guidance, these individuals offer something for everyone.

From scientifically-backed training techniques to raw, unfiltered motivation, these eight fitness influencers are leading the charge. Let’s explore who they are and why they’ve become household names in the fitness world.

 

1. Jeff Nippard: The Science Guy of Strength

Jeff Nippard is a master at breaking down the "why" behind fitness. With a biochemistry degree and a passion for lifting, he crafts his content around evidence-based approaches. If you’ve ever wondered about the science of hypertrophy, fat loss, or strength training, Jeff’s videos will clear up the confusion.

Why Jeff Stands Out:

• His science-backed tutorials are accessible without dumbing down the content. Whether you're a nerd for studies or just looking to get stronger, he’s your guy.
• Jeff creates step-by-step guides, from beginner-friendly routines to advanced strategies for smashing plateaus.
• His relatable personality and dedication to transparency make him a trusted voice in fitness.

Jeff’s Key Content:

• How to optimize muscle growth using progressive overload.
• The truth about popular diets like intermittent fasting.
• Training tips for balancing aesthetics and strength.

Follow Jeff on YouTube: Jeff Nippard

2. Chris Bumstead: The Reigning Champ

Chris Bumstead, or "CBum," is more than just the reigning Mr. Olympia Classic Physique champion—he’s a symbol of dedication, humility, and humor. His massive following isn't just about his trophies; it's about his ability to connect with fans on a personal level.

Why Chris is a Legend:

• Chris doesn’t just share his victories—he shares his struggles, from injuries to the mental grind of prepping for competitions.
• His training programs reflect the elite level of bodybuilding, offering insights into advanced techniques.
• CBum’s personality blends grit and relatability, making even the toughest training days seem doable.

What You’ll Learn:

• The importance of balancing aesthetics with functional strength.
• How to build a bulletproof mindset for competition or life challenges.
• Insights into the lifestyle of a professional bodybuilder.

Follow Chris on YouTube: Chris Bumstead

 

3. Dr. Mike Israetel: The Professor of Gains

Dr. Mike Israetel, co-founder of Renaissance Periodization, is the ultimate professor for lifters who want to train smarter, not just harder. His research-backed approach has helped countless lifters break through plateaus while avoiding injuries.

Why Mike is Essential:

• He teaches the science of hypertrophy with humor and clarity.
• Mike’s content covers topics like volume landmarks, recovery, and optimizing your training for long-term growth.
• His no-nonsense attitude cuts through fitness myths, delivering practical advice.

Highlights of Mike’s Expertise:

• Understanding the Minimum Effective Volume (MEV) and how it drives muscle growth.
• Recovery techniques to maximize gains without overtraining.
• His entertaining yet informative approach makes learning fun.

Follow Mike on YouTube: Mike Israetel

 

4. More Plates More Dates: The Fitness Investigator

Derek from More Plates More Dates is an influencer like no other. His content bridges the gap between fitness and biohacking, diving deep into topics like hormonal health, PEDs, and supplement optimization.

Why Derek is Unique:

• He tackles controversial topics with data-driven insights, helping viewers make informed decisions about their health.
• Derek’s analyses of celebrity physiques and fitness trends are unmatched.
• His focus on hormonal balance resonates with anyone seeking better performance and longevity.

What You’ll Gain:

• A clearer understanding of testosterone optimization and how it affects performance.
• Straightforward advice on supplement efficacy (no fluff or filler).
• Honest takes on the fitness industry, including common pitfalls.

Follow More Plates More Dates on YouTube: More Plates More Dates

 

5. Athlean-X: Functional Fitness for All

Jeff Cavaliere, the face behind Athlean-X, remains one of the most practical fitness influencers in the game. His emphasis on functional training and injury prevention makes his content invaluable for lifters of all levels.

Why Athlean-X Matters:

• Jeff blends traditional strength training with mobility exercises, ensuring long-term results.
• His injury-prevention tips are essential for avoiding setbacks.
• Athlean-X is perfect for anyone who wants to train smarter and stay pain-free.

What to Watch:

• Tutorials on fixing common issues like anterior pelvic tilt or shoulder pain.
• Full-body workouts that combine power, agility, and endurance.
• Tips on how to achieve aesthetic balance in your physique.

Follow Athlean-X on YouTube: Athlean-X

 

6. Sam Sulek: The Rising Star

Sam Sulek is raw, unfiltered, and unapologetically himself. A rising star in the bodybuilding community, Sam connects with fans through his honest take on the grind of fitness, often while driving to and from the gym.

Why Sam is Gaining Momentum:

• His no-BS attitude and hardcore gym culture vibe resonate with a younger audience.
• Sam’s vlogs capture the realities of bodybuilding, from triumphs to struggles.
• He balances motivation with humor, making his content highly relatable.

What You’ll See:

• The nitty-gritty of intense gym sessions.
• Real talk about the ups and downs of fitness goals.
• A behind-the-scenes look at the life of an up-and-coming bodybuilder.

Follow Sam Sulek on YouTube: Sam Sulek

 

7. Kayla Itsines: Empowering Women Globally

Kayla Itsines is a household name in women’s fitness. Her Sweat app and BBG programs are designed to help women achieve their fitness goals with time-efficient workouts.

Why Kayla Stands Out:

• Her workouts are simple, effective, and designed for busy lifestyles.
• Kayla emphasizes sustainable fitness, focusing on long-term health.
• She empowers women to feel strong and confident in their own skin.

What She Offers:

• Workouts tailored for women of all fitness levels.
• Recipes and meal plans to support a balanced lifestyle.
• A global community of women supporting each other.

Follow Kayla on YouTube: Kayla Itsines

 

8. Joe Wicks (The Body Coach): The Energizer Bunny

Joe Wicks continues to dominate the fitness world with his quick, effective workouts and recipes. His family-friendly approach makes him a go-to influencer for all ages.

Why Follow Joe:

• Short workouts that deliver results without taking hours out of your day.
• Healthy meal ideas that are easy to prepare and delicious.
• Joe’s positivity makes fitness feel achievable and fun.

Follow Joe on YouTube: Joe Wicks

 

Final Thoughts

Fitness in 2025 is about innovation, community, and results. These eight influencers each bring something unique to the table, whether it’s hardcore bodybuilding, functional fitness, or deep dives into the science of performance.

So, what are you waiting for? Check them out, get inspired, and start smashing your goals.

Which influencer resonates most with your fitness journey? Let us know!