Bodybuilding Legend Arnold Schwarzenegger Once Divulged the Greatest Piece of Wisdom From His Idol Muhammad Ali: ‘That’s What Makes You a Champion’

7-time Mr. Olympia Arnold Schwarzenegger holds a lot of respect for boxing legend Muhammad Ali. The action movie star has stated on several occasions that he regarded Ali as his idol and a great motivator for him.

Before his transition to movies, Schwarzenegger was establishing his legacy in bodybuilding. He touted Ali as one of the reasons he was motivated to train and eventually lead the world of bodybuilding. This was on full display after ‘The Terminator’ detailed some wisdom for Ali that helped him become a champion. He quoted one of Ali’s most famous sayings about how he did not count his reps while exercising.

“I remember Muhammad Ali, one of my great heroes, had a great line in the 70s when he was asked how many situps do you do. He said ‘I don’t know because I start counting only when it starts burning,'” said Schwarzenegger.

He also claimed that this attitude made him and Ali champions in their respective fields. “When it starts burning, that’s when he starts counting. You see, that’s what makes you a champion,” he added.

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Like Ali, Schwarzenegger is also a great motivational speaker and an inspiration to many. However, to him, Ali was an idol and a man he could look up to and learn from. Although both men have reached the pinnacle in their sports, the ‘Terminator’ will always resonate with the ‘The People’s Champ’ in hopes of always learning from him.

The impact of Muhammad Ali on Arnold Schwarzenegger

The 7-time Mr. Olympia became acquainted with Ali during the 70s. At this time, Schwarzenegger was at the peak of his bodybuilding career and just about to transition into movies.

He also stated that Ali was among his top five inspirational people, recalling the time he went to Ali’s funeral. “People ask me, ‘Who are some of your idols?’ He’s one of the five people that I always mention, because of his generosity and because of his great skills,” Schwarzenegger said.

Moreover, the former Governor of California revealed that the reason he respected Ali was not only because of his success as an athlete but also because of his philanthropy. The two legends have a lot in common and Schwarzenegger’s admiration of Ali is a major reason for that.

What did you think of Ali’s mindset? Let us know in the comments.

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