7-time Olympia Arnold Schwarzenegger’s unmatched aesthetics in the sport of bodybuilding, almost every time, vaulted him to the top of the tournaments in which he participated. So much so that, his physique was hailed as the Epitome of Masculinity. Quite ironically, the star athlete did not perceive it as one. In his recent Netflix documentary, Arnold, he opened up about his negative body image issues, while also sharing how it added to his motivation.
A bit of the feature depicted how Schwarzenegger wasn’t ever satisfied with his body, even after winning several titles and deriving appreciation from his peers.
Arnold Schwarzenegger didn’t feel the best once
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In the first episode of the docuseries, the 75-year-old pro’s illustrious athletic career was viewed from a candid perspective, revealing all the ups and downs he faced throughout. However, after achieving significant fame in the sphere, he still wasn’t “satisfied” with his physique. He would ponder how his build earned him such rewards.
“I never really was satisfied with my body. I looked in the mirror and said to myself, ‘I don’t know how this s**t body can ever win this competition,” Schwarzenegger said, while a scene portraying him in his gym, posing in front of his intrigued peers displayed. With an honest confession, Arnie disclosed that his bragging and pride are all “b**ls**t” and that he is not really proud of his body.
However, he explained his superior attitude to be his alter-ego, which he intended to present in front of the world. “But in reality, when I’m by myself, I look at it, and I say to myself, it’s not there yet, it’s not happening,” the Austrian Oak admitted. Yet, the thoughts fueled his passion to achieve the greatest. Hence, he stated in the Netflix documentary, “I think it’s the only thing that made me always be on the edge and always want more.” Likewise, he once spoke about his issue in a public interview.
Arnold Schwarzenegger’s body image struggles
As per an old interview on YouTube, the Austrian Oak once frankly spoke of his insecurities with his body. Despite being a champion in the field, he gathered enough courage to speak up about his issues. Surprisingly, he despised his physique so much that he couldn’t stand to look at himself in the mirror.
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“When I look in the mirror, I throw up, and I was already so critical of myself, even when I was in top physical shape,” Schwarzenegger revealed. Arnie shared he would glance at himself after winning Mr. Olympia titles and would ponder, “How did this pile of s**t win?”
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Stories like this compel people to speculate about the harsh realities of life. An IFBB champion who was irked by his downright shredded physique is difficult for the fans to accept. Nevertheless, Arnie rose above his issues and chose to lead a life with an optimistic point of view, while also trying to impart a similar influence on the community.