Confidence is a vital aspect of success in competitive arenas like bodybuilding. As depicted in his documentary that came out months ago on Netflix, as well as in ‘Pumping Iron,’ Arnold Schwarzenegger oozed with confidence whenever he stepped on the stage, creating the illusion that he is the ultimate bodybuilder in the whole lineup.

Arnold’s influence extended beyond his own career as well. And another famous bodybuilder, Tom Platz, revealed that Arnold taught him the value of “commanding the applause” despite once playing him. He opened up about how this art helped Schwarzenegger, even when he was out of shape.

The Influence of Arnold Schwarzenegger

‘Arnie’s ability to ‘command applaud’ and project charisma allowed him to win over fans and judges alike even when he was not in his peak condition. Realizing that bodybuilding is not solely about muscle mass and symmetry; it’s also about how you portray yourself on the stage, Schwarzenegger won the hearts of his fans, who cheered for him as soon as he stepped on the stage. Talking about this in a resurfaced video, Platz revealed, “Arnold taught me…you walk on stage, you stand there, look at the audience, and command the applause. Don’t ask for it. Don’t beg for it; when they see you smiling, you’re not even posing; they’re ready to go for the ride.”

Continuing further, Platz stated, “I’ve seen Arnold pose in great shape back in the 70s, and I’ve seen him pose when he is fat. The audience still respond like he was in great shape when he wasn’t in great shape.” 

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Concluding his point, Platz pointed out, “You can have the most muscle in the world, [if] you can’t sell it, nobody’s gonna buy it.” The lesson taught by Arnold makes complete sense. An athlete who looks confident is bound to get more support from the audience. However, Schwarzenegger’s confidence did not necessarily mean that he was proud of his physique. In his documentary, he revealed that, despite having an amazing physique, he suffered from body dysmorphia.

Schwarzenegger’s struggles with body dysmorphia

In his documentary ‘Arnold,’ Schwarzenegger revealed that the behavior he portrayed was just to get in the heads of all the other bodybuilders he was competing against. In reality, he was never satisfied with the way he looked. “I never really was satisfied with my body. I looked in the mirror and said to myself, “I don’t know how this sh*t body can ever win this competition,” stated Arnold.

‘The Terminator’ came out and disclosed that he just bragged about himself to make a statement. “When I’m by myself, I look at it and I say to myself, “It’s not there yet. It’s not happening.” I think it’s the very thing that made me always be on the edge and always want more.”

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What are your views on Arnold’s advice to Platz? Do you agree with Schwarzenegger’s philosophies? Let us know in the comments.