Arnold Schwarzenegger brought bodybuilding to the mainstream. In the mid-seventies, the seven-time Mr. Olympia hired a publicist and appeared in several interviews to educate people about the sport. During one such conversation, the former Mr. Olympia gave his opinion on the necessity for bodybuilders to keep their emotions in check at least three months before a competition.

During the interview, the reporter said she had heard Schwarzenegger say, “when you want to be a champion, you have to be very cold.” After listening to the reporter, Arnie clarified the meaning behind his statement.

The competitive mind of Arnold Schwarzenegger 

The seven-time Mr. Olympia always looked for ways to improve his physique. The bodybuilding champion rid himself of anything that would hamper his progress, even emotions. “Falling in love takes away from the energy in the gymnasium,” Schwarzenegger told the reporter. The Austrian explained his answer.

The former Mr. Olympia said that a bodybuilder must keep their emotions “low” for at least three months before a contest. However, getting involved with someone a few months before competing could become a distraction. Schwarzenegger explained that the emotional energy required to maintain a relationship would affect their progress in the gym.

The Arnold Classic founder said one has to make a choice. “What do you want in your life?” asked Arnie. He said he had nothing against people who wanted to fall in love, get married and have children. However, if someone wants to be a champion, one must keep their emotions in check.

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However, the seven-time Mr. Olympia didn’t say that bodybuilders should never pursue relationships. According to Schwarzenegger, staying focused on winning separates champions from the rest.

Busting myths and educating people

Schwarzenegger’s goal for appearing in so many interviews was to change the public perception of bodybuilding. During the same interview, the interviewer asked the champion if fats could turn into muscle during workouts. However, the seven-time Mr. Olympia dismissed the myth. He also explained why such a thing is impossible.

Schwarzenegger said that fat does not turn into muscle, and vice versa since fat cells and muscle cells are not the same. Similarly, people are also wrong to think that their muscle tissue turns into fat when someone stops working out.

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What do you make of Arnold Schwarzenegger’s take on the necessity of controlling one’s emotions? Lets us know in the comments.