Arnold Schwarzenegger is not only a cinematic icon but also a legendary figure in the world of bodybuilding. With seven Mr. Olympia titles under his belt, his training philosophy and workout routines have inspired millions. In this article, we’ll explore Arnold’s classic high-volume training approach, his split routine, and the principles that made him a champion.
Arnold’s Training Philosophy
- High Volume Workouts: Arnold believed that building muscle required intense, high-volume training. He often trained twice a day, six days a week.
- Mind-Muscle Connection: “Don’t just lift the weight—feel the muscle working,” was one of Arnold’s core principles.
- Posing Practice: After every workout, he would pose in front of the mirror to increase muscle control and aesthetic awareness.
- Progressive Overload: Arnold constantly aimed to increase weight or reps to challenge his muscles.
Arnold’s Classic Weekly Workout Split
| Day | Workout |
|---|---|
| Monday | Chest & Back |
| Tuesday | Shoulders & Arms |
| Wednesday | Legs |
| Thursday | Chest & Back |
| Friday | Shoulders & Arms |
| Saturday | Legs |
| Sunday | Rest |
Sample Chest Workout
- Barbell Bench Press – 5 sets of 8–10 reps
- Incline Bench Press – 4 sets of 10 reps
- Dumbbell Flyes – 4 sets of 12 reps
- Dumbbell Pullovers – 3 sets of 15 reps
Nutrition and Supplementation
Arnold followed a high-protein, nutrient-dense diet and consumed 5–6 meals per day. His typical meals included lean meats, eggs, dairy, vegetables, and complex carbohydrates. Supplements like whey protein, BCAAs, multivitamins, and sometimes creatine were staples in his routine.
Conclusion: Train Like a Champion
Arnold Schwarzenegger’s workout philosophy is still relevant today. His dedication to intense training, posing practice, and mental focus turned him into a living legend. If you’re looking to build a classic physique, this high-volume approach could be your blueprint to success.
