“Changed Bodybuilding and Many Lives Including My Own”: As Arnold Schwarzenegger Turns 76, Bodybuilding World Salutes Him for the Transformation and Impact He Made in the Sport

The bodybuilding icon Arnold Schwarzenegger is having a busy day receiving love from fitness enthusiasts on his 76th birthday. After all, it is a momentous occasion, where fans pay tribute to the enduring legacy of the Austrian Oak. The seven-time Mr. Olympia champion institutionalized the sport through his jacked physique and charismatic stage presence. 

He taught the world that bodybuilding is not an escape or a hobby only. It is a legitimate career choice for those who can meticulously craft their bodies like Michelangelo sculpted David. Earlier, a YouTube channel highlighted his contribution to professional bodybuilding. The host also asked fans to write their favorite thing about Schwarzenegger in the comments. Their comments revealed the impact of the actor on people’s minds.

Arnold Schwarzenegger contributed to making the Mr. Olympia competition famous

The YouTube channel ‘Nick’s Strength and Power’ posted a video on the 2023 Bigman Weekend Results and on Brandon Curry’s physique update. The video started with Nick Miller wishing Arnold Schwarzenegger a happy birthday. Furthermore, toward the end of the video, the YouTuber spoke about Arnie’s impact on professional bodybuilding.

He opined that the Austrian Oak’s celebrity status and magnetism made the Mr. Olympia competition famous. “The Olympia, let’s be honest, is a show that was made famous really initially by Arnold Schwarzenegger. His fame brought real notoriety to that Olympia title,” said Nick.  

The world is indebted to the golden era bodybuilder for popularising the Mr Olympia competition. Phil Heath, another seven-time Mr. Olympia like the Terminator, once penned an emotional note after training with the legend. He described Arnold as the “servant leader who truly wants the best for everyone.” 

Fans will be happy to know that Schwarzenegger promoted the sport for over five decades. It’s no wonder why netizens flocked to the comment section of the YouTube video to praise the legendary bodybuilder and actor.

Fans pay tribute to the “Pumping Iron” legend

An ardent fan said, “Arnold Schwarzenegger is LEGENDARY. He’s the reason why I work out as hard as I do to this day Happy birthday Arnold the TRUE GOAT, in my opinion.” In a similar tone, another follower added, “Winning 7 times was the biggest memory of Arnold to me.” Most fans made a ‘Pumping Iron’ reference in their comments. The docudrama, released in 1977, highlighted the life of many athletes and propelled Arnie into stardom. It also introduced people to healthy living and fitness. 

Read More: “An Absolute Hero and Legend”: Fans Pour In With Wishes as Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Daughter Pens a Sweet Message Dedicated To Her Daddy

The movie has become an essential part of bodybuilding culture. A netizen remembered an iconic scene from the movie. They wrote, “The scene in pumping iron where Arnold, Lou, and Serge Nubret are all pumping up backstage. Serge is eyeballing Arnold, pumping up out of the corner of his eye. Arnold approaches and Serge says look like I can take you. Arnold laughs and says “Keep looking”.”

Another fan chimed in, “Pumping Iron and Arnold changed bodybuilding and many lives, including my own forever. Arnold’s life and his story are an inspiration.”

Finally, another fan wrote, “The greatest feeling you can get in the gym is PUMP. Happy birthday to the Austrian Oak.“

The wishes of the netizens portray the unyielding journey of Arnold Schwarzenegger in bodybuilding and many other disciplines. It is a remarkable day and an apt opportunity to pay homage to his legacy. Have you wished the Austrian Oak yet? Wish him in the comments below.

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