In competitive bodybuilding, aesthetics, and precision shape champions. Mike Sommerfeld, the 2025 Arnold Classic (AC) Physique champion and 2024 Olympia runner-up, embodies ideal ratios and champ-caliber conditioning. Sommerfeld’s physique was critiqued by elite former coach Hany Rambod days before his 2025 AC triumph:
Sommerfeld’s X-Frame Masterpiece
Rambod starts his critiques with a front double biceps shot, analyzing symmetry and contrast between the upper and lower body. He uses the desirable X-frame aesthetic—broad shoulders, a narrow waist, and sweeping quads—as a reference point.
[Sommerfeld’s frame] literally a capital X.
—Hany Rambod
Sommerfeld’s quad sweep (outer quad roundness) stands out, a quality many bodybuilders struggle to achieve. “The vastus lateralis, the vastus medialis, the Sartorius [quad muscles] — we’re getting some excellent detail,” Rambod illustrated.
Areas to Improve—Peaks & Pecs
Despite his near-perfect quads, Rambod suggested Sommerfeld build more calf size to match.
Because Sommerfeld’s quads are so big, they make his calves look a little small.
Sommerfeld’s hamstrings and inner thighs could also use more detail to elevate his back poses. Rambod recommends leg curls with a full range of motion, squeezing the hamstrings during the contraction.
Sommerfeld’s double biceps poses would also look more impressive with taller biceps peaks, though this is largely genetic. More wrist supination during curls could help. Another nitpick is a slightly underdeveloped upper chest, which can be improved with more incline chest presses.
A little more thickness in the upper chest would push Sommerfeld closer to number one.
—Hany Rambod
A recent criticism is Sommerfeld’s size shifting toward the aesthetics of heavier divisions like 212 and Open. While Rambod currently disagrees, he warns that if Sommerfeld continues to grow without maintaining his proportions, he’ll lose the Classic aesthetic.
The Importance of Posing
Posing is just as crucial to success on stage as conditioning and muscle fullness. While Sommerfeld’s placing reflected his shape and performance, Rambod noticed some posing flaws. In the side chest, “These guys aren’t twisting enough,” Rambod commented. “Twist more and get the shoulders squared to get maximum width.”
Sommerfeld’s etched glutes and entire back are strong points in the back double biceps pose. Again, more biceps peaks would take Sommerfeld’s physique to the next level. Rambod believes adjusting wrist position and lifting the chest will create greater biceps detail and separation.
Physique Rating: Near Perfect?
Sommerfeld’s rapid rise through the Classic ranks was no fluke. Rambod rated Sommerfeld’s physique 9.2 out of 10.
Sommerfeld’s the highest-rated physique I’ve critiqued. He’s absolutely phenomenal.
—Hany Rambod
Bodybuilding is a game of millimeters, and Sommerfeld is inching closer to the top of the Olympia podium.
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Featured image: @mikethebadass on Instagram
