Perhaps no one has single-handedly made bodybuilding as popular as it is today than Arnold Schwarzenegger. He became Mr. Universe in 1969 and was among the most favorite of all titlists in this most prestigious bodybuilding contest. When he made his Hollywood box office hit Conan the Barbarian, not only was it the turning point in his career as a muscled star, but also the start of a bodybuilding passion for a multitude of fans idolizing the actor with the physique of a Greek God that is Arnold.

A few years later, a TV series with another former Mr. Universe Lou Ferigno gave home audiences the body to die for. Perhaps not as gorgeous as Arnold, Lou furthered the popularity of bodybuilding with more audiences savoring what bodybuilding can do. The World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) televised regular wrestling matches on cable TV added more fuel to the fire. The proliferation of fitness and health magazines, workout videos and DVDs complete the craze that swept the nation in no time. Regardless of age, from teenagers to retirees, there has been an emergence of bodybuilding enthusiasts everywhere. Aiming from just toning the muscles, reducing the fat or attaining competition-grade build, the bodybuilding is now one sporting phenomenon to reckon with.

Plan it out first

Bodybuilding is not for everyone. It requires self-discipline and determined will power to undertake a rigorous training regimen that can be taxing to your level of perseverance and patience. In addition, your other social obligation could take the backseat. Hence, unless you are aiming to compete in world bodybuilding contests, your have to assess and determine your level of commitment to a training program that can fit in your lifestyle.

Then you need to consult with people in the know. A physician with experience in athletic training can advice you on the training regimen that matches your physical and medical condition. Do some research on the net or consult with a dietician to gather as much advice on the proper food intake. Lastly, check out the many gym and fitness centers out there. Get their pricing and training programs that fit your lifestyle.

Discipline All The Way Once you’ve decided on your commitment level and the training regimen that’s right for you, stick to it like a leech. That means a lot of perseverance, discipline and drive to get to the body you want. Set you sights on the body of Arnold. Like they say, aim high and while you may not reach it, you’ll get close and much higher than if you aimed low.

Needless to say you need to monitor your progress. A weighing scale and a tailor’s measuring tape should come in handy, and a logbook to take in history of body measurements. But taking a good photo of yourself at regular intervals is the best dashboard indication of your progress. It would be interesting to compare your physique 12 months down the road and with one when you first started – a before and after look.

Consistency in your training regimen can’t be overstated. There will be days when you won’t see any progress and the temptation will be thereto discontinue. But if you are following a proven workout regimen, you need to persevere. Some muscles require more time to develop than others.