“You Can’t Just Be Confident”: At 81, Bodybuilding King of Aesthetics Throws Light on a Crucial Training Essential

For some, bodybuilding is more of an art form than a sport. Like meticulous sculptors, they work on themselves, perfecting each fiber of the body. At the remarkable age of 81, the Bodybuilding King of Aesthetics unveils a vital training secret that goes beyond mere confidence. 

One such artist and master of the game is three times Mr. Olympia Frank Zane. The bodybuilding juggernaut’s chiseled physique is a source of inspiration for many. Recently, the California State University Alumni posted a picture of himself on social media, with some words of advice that say quality and confidence go hand in hand.  

Frank Zane is a lesson in consistency and perseverance 

The IFBB pro posted a picture on Instagram of his symmetrical body with the word “CONFIDENCE” embossed on it. He captioned the image with an apt reminder of focus and consistency. Zane wrote, “Confidence is important, but you have to have proof. You can’t just be confident without having proof of your quality.”Who better to talk about quality than the legend himself? The 3x Mr. Universe had one of the best symmetrical and proportionate bodies. His thin waist and chiseled abs won approval from men and women alike. 

Moreover, the bodybuilding genius mastered both size and aesthetics in his bodybuilding journey. The mighty bodybuilder also took on a young Arnold Schwarzenegger in the 1968 Mr Universe competition. In those times, Zane was albeit leaner but well-defined compared to the Austrian Oak, a lesson that Schwarzenegger took to heart. However, victory eluded the Chemist during the Reign of ‘Iron Oak’. The Chemist won many titles, including the top 5 in Mr. Olympia during the early 1970s, but failed to win against the Governator from 1970 to 1975.

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The NABBA Mr. Universe once lamented, “For a long time I was Joe Weider’s No. 2 bodybuilder.” However, taking Weider’s advice, the Chemist changed his workout strategy to put more muscle. Furthermore, he started working out with heavy weights to adopt the freakish look which was in vogue. Finally, Zane won Mr Olympia after Schwarzenegger’s retirement in 1975. However, he had to wait one more year before the trophy became his in 1977, as another bodybuilding legend, Franco Columbu, took the coveted title in 1969.

But once Zane got hold of the Sandow trophy in 1977, he did not leave it till 1980, when his rival, the Terminator, once again made a comeback to Mr Olympia’s stage. Thus, the professional coach’s career is a lesson in perseverance. Slowly and steadily, he perfected his body. His confidence comes from his hard work. There is another piece of advice that the icon likes to give. Zane is a great proponent of mind and muscle connection in his workout. The author even wrote a book on achieving the desired physique.

Zane won Mr. Olympia through muscle and mind

Frank Zane talks about the power of visualization in his book Mind and Body Connection. According to the Bachelor of Psychology, our thoughts create action. In simpler terms, we are who we think we are. Reiterating the power of manifestation, Zane informed readers, that his physique was not only a result of a workout but also through mental focus. The Hall of Fame inductee created winning images in his head that led him to win championships.

The 81-year-old bodybuilder also asked people to refrain from using “negative body metaphors“. He promoted mindfulness during workouts. Thus, Zane is the epitome of quality, honing his skills consistently. By using his experience and education, he won the heavyweight trophy three times in a row after being a lightweight champion. Do you think quality brings confidence? Share your thought with us. 

Watch This Story: Bodybuilding King of Aesthetics Unveils a Self-fulfilling Prophecy For the Ultimate Gains