Seven-time Mr. Olympia, Arnold Schwarzenegger’s massive influence on the bodybuilding industry inspired several enthusiasts and prospective athletes. One such athlete is Thomas Platz a.k.a Tom Platz. A former bodybuilder famously known for his leg conditioning that scaled over 30 inches. Hence, the nickname, The Quadfather. A viral clip featuring him explaining his first encounter with Schwarzenegger surfaced days ago. The athlete talked about how he was particularly noticed by the legend, after he came to Platz’s city for his book’s promotion.

When asked, the latter asserted that he wished to go and train with Schwarzenegger himself in California. Here’s how it turned his life around. 

Tom Platz took up the challenge to train with Arnold Schwarzenegger

In the video, the 67-year-old bodybuilder seemed to explain the meeting to the audience. “Arnold had a book, just came out, his new book, first book. Big long line and I’m back of the line going ‘wow I get a chance to meet this guy, okay’ and they must’ve told him about me, being the local guy…” he enlightened. 

Continuing his story, he said that the Austrian Oak called out to him and asked him about his purpose in life. Thus, the American star athlete said, “He goes ‘Hey in the orange coat, come here’ I’m like Me? And arnold said, what’s your career concept? What do you wanna do with your life?” He promptly answered, “I’m like, Mr. Schwarzenegger, I’m gonna go out in california and train with you after graduation. When I graduate from school and have my degrees, I’m gonna come out and train with you…He blew me off, ‘yeahh right, kid.’”

Read More: “They’ll Tear a Little Bit”: Following in Father-in-Law Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Footsteps, Chris Pratt Shares an Ultimate Secret for Building Muscles

Almost 6 months later, the 5’8” icon reached California and reminded Schwarzenegger about his promise. Thus, he narrated, “25 weeks later, I’m there, Remember you invited me out? Yeah I do, Oh my god, this guy is crazy. I was that kid ‘I have to do this’ you know and he was willing to share things with me, his ideas and his training.” That is how Platz charted his road to success, by utilizing the right opportunity and working on it. His influential skills are commendable, this is how he was once relieved from paying the fees of a notable gym. 

Tom Platz got the freeway to Gold’s Gym

As per sources, The Golden Eagle rose to fame in the 70s and 80s, credit to his impressive physique. However, his iconic journey began when he stumbled upon the founder of Gold’s Gym, Joe Gold. The bodybuilder was prepping up for the upcoming Mr. Universe when Gold took notice of his whereabouts and asked him to pay up if he wanted to continue his membership. 

Interestingly, he let it slip until the event and Platz focused on his competition. To everyone’s surprise, the latter set his name to the title that year. As the news reached Gold’s ears, he invited Platz back to the gym. The latter reached biting his nails off speculating he’ll have to pay the owner back. But he was taken aback when he learned that Gold was relieved from all expenses at the gym and called in gym veterans like Schwarzenegger and Frank Zane to convey the message. 

Watch This Story: From Arnold Schwarzenegger to Chris Bumstead – Here Are the Top 5 Most Aesthetic Bodybuilders to Ever Compete in Mr. Olympia

A man of true spirit, that’s Tom Platz for the community. Moreover, the athlete was fortunate enough to rise to fame with not one, but three nicknames – The Quadfather, The Golden Eagle, and Quadzilla. Were you inspired by his captivating journey to being shredded? Tell us in the comments.