Arnold Schwarzenegger has openly discussed his steroid use and how it influenced his career as a bodybuilding icon and a legend in the movie industry.
However, controversy persists, particularly around the misconception that steroids alone can build muscles without working out.
As a Certified Professional Trainer, I delved into Schwarzenegger's story to comprehend why he's surrounded by controversy.
After spending weeks studying his interviews and career, read on and find out the reasons why he decided to use performance enhancing drugs.
Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Stats
Arnold Schwarzenegger is currently 6'3" (190.5cm) and weighs between 225–235 lbs (102.1–106.6 kgs).
His body measurements are as follows:
- Chest: 57 inches
- Waist: 30 inches
- Arms: 22 inches
- Thighs: 28.5 inches
- Calves: 20 inches
Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Relationship With Steroids
This is a topic I've often discussed with fellow gym enthusiasts. Let's dive into it.
When Did Arnold First Take Steroids?
Before becoming a famous bodybuilder, Arnold Schwarzenegger first began taking steroids at the age of 20. Steroids enhance muscle growth by boosting protein synthesis and nitrogen retention while also mitigating muscle breakdown, but their misuse can cause serious health issues.
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In 1988, Arnold told Playboy Magazine he used steroids under doctors’ supervision once a year, six to eight weeks before competitions.
“All you want to do is be a champion, and you take what anyone else is taking.”
- Arnold Schwarzenegger
What Others Have to Say About Arnold’s Use of Performance-Enhancing Drugs
Former California Governor Schwarzenegger’s old gym mates claimed he took Dianabol in Germany at 17 and routinely injected himself with testosterone-based substances after landing in America in 1968 [1].
Interestingly, Arnold did not respond to the above claims, which leads me to question what anabolic steroids he took, how much was taken, and whether it was truly under doctors’ supervision.
Arnold’s View of Using Steroids
Although Arnold Schwarzenegger personally admitted to abusing steroids, he said he’d never endorse their use because bodybuilding is a respectable sport. He did not want to send out the wrong message.
He wanted bodybuilders today to work hard to achieve their desired physique by participating in weight training, choosing the right food, taking supplements, and keeping away from illegal drugs.
Were There Any Apparent Signs Of Arnold's Steroid Use?
I've sifted through hundreds of Arnold's photos and videos to see if there were some evident signs he was using performance-enhancing drugs at the time. Here are the ones that stand out.
Impressive Muscle Mass
During his peak, no one would argue that Arnold’s amazing physique was the best of his time. Seven Mr. Olympia awards will back up this claim.
Aggressive Behavior Towards Women
One of the biggest signs of using anabolic steroids is violent and aggressive behavior. A 1996 study found that users of men using anabolic-androgenic steroids were more likely to show heightened aggressiveness than non-users [2].
According to an LA Times news report, six women who came into contact with Arnold Schwarzenegger on movie sets said he inappropriately sexually touched them without their consent [3].
Is It Possible To Achieve Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Body Drug-Free?
Yes. But keep in mind that Arnold is blessed with superior genetics that allows his muscles to grow larger than the average person’s.
Achieving Arnold’s body drug-free takes years of heavy lifting, experimentation with programs, and a strict eating regimen.
Additionally, you’ll need to work out six days a week, using high sets for each muscle group, giving each rep full focus and concentration.
You may not look exactly like Arnold, but you’ll look as ‘Arnold’ as your body allows. Either way, the health benefits, and the confidence boost could be enough to make all the effort worthwhile.
I've recommended powerful legal substitutes to avoid steroids to my clients and readers to achieve strength gains and a ripped physique. Here are my top choices:
You can also speed up your efforts with bulking stacks of legal steroids based on natural supplements. These can increase your stamina, strength, and testosterone production, significantly fast-tracking your muscle growth. However, consider getting a doctor's supervision to ensure all these products suit your body.
“Every sport needs a hero, and I knew that Arnold was the right man,”
- Joe Weider, Co-Founder, International Federation of BodyBuilders (IFBB)
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FAQs
How Many Hours a Day Did Arnold Schwarzenegger Work Out?
Arnold claimed to have worked out for five hours a day, six days a week, sometimes working out twice a day. This included 45 minutes of cardio.
Was Arnold Schwarzenegger Ever Banned for Steroid Use?
Arnold has never been banned from any contests for his steroid use. Either he was never tested for it or participated in contests that didn’t administer drug tests.
References:
- https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-2003-sep-29-fi-arnold29-story.html
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8797026/
- https://www.latimes.com/local/la-me-archive-schwarzenegger-women-story.html
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