Arnold Schwarzenegger, a true legend in the world of bodybuilding, effortlessly shattered the record 18 times. This man, forever etched in the highs of bodybuilding history, practically defines the concept of a sculpted physique. Despite his challenging childhood, he dared to dream and envisioned the extraordinary life he now cherishes. His journey was not a walk in the park. Bodybuilding, albeit just one facet of his illustrious career, undeniably played a colossal role in catapulting him to the stardom he still basks in today.

In the midst of his illustrious journey, there was one pivotal defeat that ignited his quest for an even more finely chiseled physique.

Defeat fuels victory: Steps to physique like Arnold Schwarzenegger

Schwarzenegger did not only lose Superman but faced an early setback in his bodybuilding career as well. When he competed in his first US bodybuilding competition in Miami in 1968, he lost, because of a lack of muscle definition compared to the winner, Frank Zane. This loss motivated him to work on two key areas: his midsection and calves. Schwarzenegger realized that American bodybuilders focused more on midsection muscles than those in Europe, targeting internal obliques, transverse abdominis, and the serratus muscle. He altered his approach, and the results were transformative.

As per Business Insider, to target the same muscle groups Schwarzenegger honed, experts suggest exercises like side planks, Pallof presses, wood chops, and moves that work the obliques. To develop the transverse abdominal muscles, they recommend hollow holds, dead bugs, and planks. For the serratus muscles, exercises like ab rollouts, bear crawls, and single-arm band chest presses are effective. Focusing on calf development includes standing and seated calf raises, tip-toe walks, and even jumping jacks.

This definitive guide serves as the ultimate roadmap to achieving a sculpted physique. However, what adds an intriguing twist to this tale is the revelation that The Terminator actor himself cannot sport a six-pack.

No six packs for Schwarzenegger?

The actor’s four-pack abs might be less conventional than the typical six-pack, but it is all due to genetics. The bands of the fascia are sectioned by the rectus abdominis muscle. Along with that, the genetic blueprint determines whether a person can rock a four-pack or six-pack. The Austrian oak’s four-pack is the result of genetics, and no amount of dieting can change that.

Even though the last two abs are absent, it does not affect his strength or his ability to win bodybuilding trophies. In short, the Escape Plan actor’s iconic physique, complete with a four-pack, remains an inspiration to many. Not all washboard abs are created equal. More so, his physique speaks volumes about it. The unique four-pack, driven by genetics, has never held him back, making Schwarzenegger a celebrated icon in the world of fitness.

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