The Terminator and Mr. Universe, Arnold Schwarzenegger, is no average human. He is the epitome of fine art in human form. Most humans are on a 2,000 or less calorie a day diet. So, what kind of fuel does that kind of body need to pump it up?
Arnold Schwarzenegger consumes 3,825 calories per day. Almost double of the average person. His strenuous work-outs and strict diet requirements provide that those calories don’t go to waste.
This should not be a license to have a free for all at the local Wienerschnitzel. Most people cannot consume that calorie intake without putting on a significant amount of weight. Arnold balances his intake of calories with a well-established workout program and a dietary intake that compliments it. So, how do almost 4,000 calories a day work anyway?
The Calorie Terminator on Protein
Although Arnold is more of a vegan now, he didn’t use to be. He still lives by the rule that ‘every pound of bodyweight needed one gram of protein’. So, if you are 200 lbs., you should be intaking 200 grams of protein. There are several ways that one can ingest the proper amounts of protein on a daily basis.
Now mind you, if you are not as physically active, and are more of a sedentary kind of creature, 200 grams of protein should not be your target. You would want to focus more on 40 grams of protein a day scale. If you are new to proteins and have a hard time remembering what constitutes a protein, the easiest way to remember is that, if it had a mother, it is a protein. Unless it is a supplemental or protein shake, but you get the idea.
That being said, proteins are received from eggs, animal meats and dairy products. These are considered complete proteins. Other foods that offer amino acids are considered incomplete proteins, like beans, peas, and grains.
Generally, the average person will try to consume protein at different times during the day and not all in one sitting. What is popular is 4-5 small meals per day with 3 snacks of a protein bar or protein shake if they need to round out the protein intake. This is nearly identical to what Arnold practices, just in greater quantities. He also included vitamins and minerals into his diet.
As disciplined as Arnold is on his diet, he did set-aside a cheat day to intake some good old cheeseburgers and fries. Everyone needs that special ‘me’ day and Arnold is no different. It is the reward for a job well done and meeting the goals for that week.
Working Out Like A Boss
When taking in a good deal of protein, the focus is to build your body and a healthier lifestyle. Food is fuel for the workout, so portion control and what is in those portions matter a great deal on how it is burned.
Arnold had a rigorous routine that was on the docket every week which incorporated nearly every part of his body: Chests, back, legs, calves, forearms, arms, biceps, triceps, and shoulders. He would alternate days of the week as not to overstress any certain area of the body. These workouts could be viewed at Venice Beach, which Arnold proudly gives a tour of while strolling down memory lane at Muscle Beach.
Arnold’s diet is essential for building muscle and the ideal undertaking of bodybuilders. Not much has changed on his planned diet and workout routine from the 1970s. Teaching and sharing his plan with others has always been a practice of his and still is today through social media.
Arnold’s positive energy is contagious and he encourages people to work out on a daily basis and enjoy the good things in life. He posts recent adventures and experiences on Twitter to be shared with his fans, who he stays in connection with.
Arnold has had such positive feedback from his fans and questions about how he maintains his fit lifestyle, his workout routine has been posted in several places all over the web and in books. He advocates educating yourself about nutrition, dietary requirements, and what your body needs in order to live the best life you can live.
The Healthy Life
Arnold has inspired many people to live a healthier lifestyle. His guidance on diet and workout schedules are definitely something to aspire too. We may not ever reach the need for over 3500 calories a day, but the education gained and put into practice is priceless.