“I Block People out”- Frank Zane, 3x Mr. Olympia, Dismissed the Idea of Going to the Gym to Hang Out and Have Fun

The 80-year-old three-time Mr. Olympia champion Frank Zane began lifting at 14. During his peak between 1977 and 1979, the 5’9, 200 pounds bodybuilder, was touted as the one with “the most aesthetically appealing physique.” Notably, he has a unique combination of great skill and wisdom.

As fate would have it, Zane was forced to quit competing in 1983 due to shoulder injuries. However, that didn’t end his fitness journey. Through his six-decade-long journey, he developed the idea of giving a scientific approach to the sport by inculcating scientific methods and objectivity in the preparation. In an interview in 2021, he shared his thoughts on common mistakes people make in the gym.

Bodybuilding demands focus

There has been a rise in the number of people resorting to lifestyle changes and making fitness routines an integral part of their daily life. It also includes going to the gym. On the other hand, are the people who go for fun.

He didn’t appreciate people going to the gym for social reasons, which are to meet people and chat. Also, occupying equipment while being engaged in cell phones is one of the common mistakes people made in the gym. “This is a waste of valuable time,” he stated.

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Moreover, Zane said, “I center myself and focus.” To avoid deviation, especially after he became a serious contender and title winner, he said, “I block people out, ignore people.” Also, he suggested that “earbuds or a training partner” can be of help to prevent any disturbance.

Frank Zane gave tips to be motivated to go to the gym

Zane emphasized the importance of having an objective to go to the gym. He said, “Everyone needs a concrete objective.” He suggested that before one goes to the gym, “write down specific goals.” In addition, he guided one to take a notebook and draw squares on the page that helps to record accurately the information being tracked.

To measure progress, he recommended taking progress pictures “before, after, and along the way.” Moreover, he clarified that pictures don’t mean mirror photos or selfies. He suggested having another person click pictures as they would help get a clear understanding of how one looks on camera in real life.

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