“The guy that’s got demons in real life” - Mike O'Hearn quotes Arnold Schwarzenegger to explain why he started working out
4-times Mr. Universe Mike O'Hearn has inspired countless individuals through his workout motivation clips and reverse aging physique. However, just like most of us, 'Titan' himself takes inspiration from bodybuilding and Hollywood legend Arnold Schwarzenegger.
Training with Arnold several times now, and even putting his bodybuilder son Joseph Baena through an intense workout session a while back, Mike O'Hearn and Arnold Schwarzenegger share an inseparable bond.
In a recently posted Instagram clip, Mike O'Hearn can be seen discussing why he started bodybuilding and continues to put his body through grueling painful workouts despite being 55 years old. Quoting Arnold Schwarzenegger to explain better, Mike O'Hearn stated:
"I like the guy that's got demons from real life instead of the guy that wants to get on stage. There's something so much deeper there and I think I've also realised...when you do this as long as I have..when Arnold was talking about weightlifting, he's talking about life."
Mike O'Hearn opens up about his motivation to keep weightlifting
Just like most fitness freaks, pumping iron in the gym is not just about lifting heavy weights so that you can look a certain way. Agreed, it does provide an added benefit, but Mike O'Hearn believes it's the mental aspects of weightlifting that push him to continue doing so.
Despite taking a step back from professional bodybuilding, 'Titan' still follows a strict training program, along with a good diet, and recovery protocol.
"It's like weightlifting is trying to fix my emotional problems..weightlifting is about testing myself. It is about challenging myself..its..those are much bigger things than a trophy," Mike pointed out.
Apart from Arnold Schwarzenegger, Mike is also good friends with 'The Austrian Oak's bodybuilding rival Frank Zane. During an interview with one of the only two bodybuilders who ever won against Arnold Schwarzenegger, Mike asked Zane about his views regarding the best bodybuilder of today's time. With a smile on his face, Zane stated (via Generation Iron):
“I think Mike O’Hearn is the best."
Adding to this, with regards to Mr. Olympia, which is the biggest stage in the bodybuilding realm, Frank Zane gave his honest views saying:
“You could. I mean, if I worked with you on your posing, your presentation – I think you can do really well. now whether you can win it the first year, that’s something to do. but I think eventually win it.”
Even though O'Hearn has not displayed any interest in stepping back on stage in recent times, only time will tell if we will ever watch 'Titan's elegant posing again on a professional bodybuilding stage. For now, Mike only wants to focus on his personal goals and health rather than a bodybuilding trophy.