Decades After Brutal Training, 64-Year-Old IFBB Pro Once Unveiled the Long-Term Effects of Pumping Iron

Francis Benfatto, an IFBB Pro bodybuilder known for his symmetrical physique, is celebrated for his contributions during bodybuilding’s golden era. Although he never claimed a Mr. Olympia title, Benfatto remains a respected figure in the sport. Now a personal coach, he uses his experience to educate the fitness community. In a recent post, Benfatto reflected on his five decades of weight training and its long-term impact.

In his post, the 1982 Mr. France winner aimed to inspire fellow bodybuilders by sharing insights from his personal journey in strength training.

The 64-year-old bodybuilding veteran emphasizes that age has not limited his dedication to weight training. “I truly believe that age is just a number, but only if you do what you have to do. I’m 64 and I feel great, and this year I’m celebrating 50 years of training,” Benfatto shared, reflecting on his decades-long commitment to the sport.

Benfatto believes that the early days of his weightlifting journey still shape his current physique. “But today, I can still see the results of the first kilo I lifted 50 years ago…why? Because this is a long-term challenge, a very long journey,” he explained, emphasizing the enduring effects of consistent training.

Benfatto attributes his longevity in bodybuilding to consistent efforts in both training and nutrition. “It has also been 50 years of good nutrition, preparations, a thousand trips, a million miles, many countries, good times, good people, and many many memories, love, and emotions,” he said, reflecting on the factors that allowed him to maintain his career well into his 60s.

Benfatto’s deep understanding of the sport and commitment to training allowed him to continue competing into his 40s, driven by the same motivation that has inspired bodybuilding legends like Arnold Schwarzenegger and Joey Swoll.

Yet, Benfatto’s story has a very different trajectory. 

Benfatto explained the motivation for his 2006 comeback

Known for his focus on symmetry over mass, Benfatto achieved moderate success during his competitive career, with his best Mr. Olympia finish being 6th place. After a 13-year hiatus, he made a remarkable comeback at age 48, placing 6th in the 2006 IFBB Australian Grand Prix, marking a career that spanned over two decades.

In a 2019 interview with Bodybuilding.com, Benfatto spoke about his comeback, explaining,“My decision to compete once again came during some exhibitions I was doing in South Africa. I got motivated during the process of getting in shape for these appearances. My body response was good and looking at the pictures I saw a possibility to compete again, then I decided to do a comeback but not an ordinary one: my goal was to do the best comeback ever.”

“I wanted to reach my full potential at 48 years old, which was unique in Bodybuilding history, so I achieved what I set out to do.”

The ageless bodybuilder still continues to train as a 64-year-old with the same enthusiasm. Francis Benfatto is a master in training techniques such as A.R.T i.e., auto-regulation training, and PPM, i.e., Progressive Performance Methodology training method.

Only consistency and opting for rightful means will help individuals remain in the bodybuilding arena for a long period. The now-training coach desires to change the approach of rookie bodybuilders with his fitness programs with an emphasis on sustenance.