“Body of Steve Reeves…Arms of Larry Scott”: 81-Y.O Veteran With a Sculpted Physique That Won Him 3 Olympia Titles, Reveals His Inspiration Behind It

Bodybuilding legend Frank Zane is also known as the ‘God of Aesthetics’ for presenting a lean look combined with a chiseled physique during the 1970s. It has been 23 years since he entered the fitness arena. He continues to contribute to the fitness industry through his wisdom. Zane took to bodybuilding at fourteen years old in Pennsylvania, when bodybuilding was not trending yet. 

Despite having limited information, the 3x Mr. Olympia studied the magazine, and he took the initiative to start training at the local Wilkes-Barre YMCA weight room. Additionally, he purchased a 30-pound set of dumbbells and began his training at home to hone his skills. Two names stood out to him- Larry Scott and Steve Reeves, who inspired him to achieve symmetry and proportion. Recently in a social media podcast, the Chemist took a trip down memory lane reminiscing about his bodybuilding mentors. 

Frank Zane wanted to be like Steve Reeves and Larry Scott

Earlier, in a YouTube interview with OlympiaTV hosted by Isabelle, Zane revealed he looked up to Steve Reeves. 1950, Mr. Universe Reeves was, in Joe Weider’s eye, the epitome of physical perfection. He represented the classical era of fitness that focused on poise rather than mass.

The Hercules actor inspired many iconic bodybuilders, including Arnold Schwarzenegger and Zane. In the interview, the Chemist said, ” I looked up to Steve Reeves from the photos I saw in the magazines and then later on Larry Scott you know and I got to meet both of them and was very impressed by them in their work ethic.” 

Larry Scott was another iconic figure in the bodybuilding arena, who lifted the first and the second Mr. Olympia trophy in 1965 and 1966. The once frail boy transformed his body with the help of Vince Gironda as his trainer and Rheo Blair as his nutritionist. The trio made Scott the most successful bodybuilder in the 1960s. Every little boy who dreamt of entering the bodybuilding circuit looked up to these two legends. 

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The interviewer further revealed, “I read something where you said you wanted to have the body of Steve Reeves and the arms of Larry Scott. Is this true?” To this, the Bachelor of Science elaborated his opinion on the physicality of the icons. He added, “I admire Larry just got delts and arms but I admired Reeves’ structure and his proportions and I thought if I could combine the two I would have you know an ideal physique.” However, Zane acknowledged that his body looked different from his idols. He opined that one cannot ape somebody’s physique. The bodybuilder charted his own path through hard work. His workout and training gave a different shape to his body that was uniquely his. The legend has often referred to the mind and body connection in his training method.

Zane highlighted the mind and body connection

Taking to various social media platforms, Zane highlighted the importance of training one’s mind. He said, “Our minds keep talking to us., shaping our perception of our world, entertaining us.” The bodybuilder further wrote, “Is there an easier way to overcome this barrier? Training the brain to produce the relaxation response in the body, as being analogous to a workout to build your muscles.”

The 81-year-old veteran bodybuilder’s unique take on bodybuilding comes from his scientific, educational background. He is one leader in the industry to focus on positive mental vibrations. Many often forget the resilience and cognitive work needed to achieve the desired body. Furthermore, by focusing on the mind and body connection, Mr. Olympia presented a unified version of the sport. Are you inspired by the physique of Scott and Reeves? Comment below. 

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