The Bodybuilding God of Aesthetics Reveals What He Did Differently in his Late 60s to Still Be Functional at 81

Among the many Golden Era legends like Arnold Schwarzenegger, Franco Columbu and Mike Mentzer. Frank Zane stands out for one reason. While Zane couldn’t match the likes of Arnie, Mentzer, or Lou Ferrigno, he worked on building arguably the most aesthetic physique in bodybuilding history. The God of Aesthetics also maintained his supreme physique for decades after retiring.

While many bodybuilders from the 70s lost their physiques with age, Frank Zane held onto his Greek god aesthetics well into his 60s. Earlier, the 81-year-old bodybuilder explained how he trained in his late 60s. The former Mr. Universe’s intuitive approach has helped him stay fit beyond 80.

Frank Zane adapted his training

It’s no secret that no one can escape aging. From the strongest man to the most aesthetic bodybuilder, everyone gradually loses their abilities as they age. However, Frank Zane believed in aging gracefully. While the bodybuilder could no longer lift extremely heavy weights and needed more time to recover, he didn’t stop training. Instead, Zane adjusted his training frequency.

‘In my late 60s, I was training four times a week because I was training light,” explained the three-time Mr. Olympia. Zane found his physical limit and didn’t go overboard. However, the Golden Era legend further switched up his training style according to his goal. “If I were using heavier weights and wanted to grow a bit more muscle, I’d train three times a week,” wrote Zane.

Beyond the age of 40, testosterone production slows down. Hence, Zane’s primary goal was to maintain his muscle mass. However, if the 81-year-old used heavier weights to put on muscle, he required “extra rest to recuperate.” Hence, the bodybuilding legend trained only thrice while using a bodybuilding program with heavier weights.

However, Frank Zane isn’t the only bodybuilding legend incorporating this technique. The former Mr. Universe’s rival-turned-friend Arnold Schwarzenegger does something similar.

Arnold Schwarzenegger’s training principle

During an interview with journalist Chris Wallace, Arnold Schwarzenegger explained how he continues to train at 76. The seven-time Mr. Olympia explained he trains regularly, but like Frank Zane, has adapted his workout according to his capacity. The 76-year-old takes care of cardio by biking to Gold’s Gym. This also acts as a warm-up.

Read More | 81-YO God of Aesthetics Reveals the “The Power of Minimal Training”

However, the five-time Mr. Universe didn’t make any drastic changes to exercise selection. Besides replacing most free-weight movements with exercise machines, Arnie still trains like his prime. The only real difference is that like his former rival, Arnold Schwarzenegger uses lighter weights.

Hence, while bodybuilding legends like Frank Zane lost the vigor of youth with age, they didn’t lose their love for fitness. Instead, Zane and others adapted to the challenges of aging.

Watch this story | 5X Classic Physique Chris Bumstead Works With Renowned Strength And Conditioning Coach For “Exploring Hip Mobility”