Some names in bodybuilding history evoke a sense of nostalgia and pride. Their efforts to set new standards in the industry do not go unnoticed by fans. Frank Zane is one such person who has contributed immensely to the sport. Moreover, belonging to the classical era, he presented proportion and symmetry on stage. The Chemist brought an intellectual lens to bodybuilding, propounding a mind-body connection. 

Recently, the 81-year-old appeared on a podcast. Here, he discussed many topics, including a certain 54-year-old bodybuilding adonis who has become a social media sensation, showcasing that his age is hardly a constraint. In the “Transparent with Nyle Nayga” podcast, the mathematician went down memory lane, looking back at his glorious career. The exchange delved into many issues.

Frank Zane names his favorite bodybuilder

On the podcast, Frank Zane deftly juggled many questions. After all, one does not get to talk to 3x Mr. Olympia every day. Nayga asked, “What are your thoughts on modern bodybuilding?” The God of Aesthetics replied, “Some great physiques, and they all look pretty good.” He then appreciated internet icon Mike O’Hearn. The discussion moved on to how these new-age bodybuilders are endowed with good genetics, which helps them achieve massive proportions and conditioning.

Zane particularly appreciates the Gladiator. “Like, take Mike O’Hearn here, for example; he’s incredibly strong, which is a great benefit for somebody doing bodybuilding. If you’re strong and you could use weights, you can really grow, and so you know he’s capable of doing outstanding things, and he’s starting to do that,” stated the Chemist.

The host points out how the bodybuilding influencer has maintained his ripped physique despite his age. “Well, he’s 53; it’s not that old by bodybuilding standards; he’s good for another 10 years at least,” opined Zane. In the bodybuilding circuit, Shawn Rhoden surprised everyone by clinching the title from Phil Heath in 2018 at 43. Thus, it is not uncommon to see super-jacked athletes smashing age stereotypes. Similarly, Mike is one of the sought-after bodybuilders featured in many fitness magazines. The “Baby Don’t Hurt Me” meme further catapulted the star into popularity, showcasing his godly physique. The icon, too, would like to be remembered for his longevity and not just his titles. 

Mike O’Hearn focuses on vitality

A few months ago, fitness YouTuber Olav Johnsrud asked O’Hearn how he would like to be remembered. The 54-year-old replied, “Wow. Dedication and longevity, the long game.” He added, “It’s about the life, right? The quality of life, not the expansion of life. Not 100 years old, but the quality that you’re here. That’s what it should be about,” revealing his motivation for working out. 

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

For Mike, it is not only about winning titles and Mr. Olympias, but rather the long haul. He promotes fitness so that people can age gracefully by following sustainable methods. O’Hearn’s mantra does not seem too different from Frank Zane’s meditative focus on exercise. These athletes do not look at training in isolation. They attest to its lifelong benefits.

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