SUMMARY
- Tom Platz secured third in the 1981 Mr. Olympia and won Mr. Universe in 1980.
- According to Platz, the key to his longevity and productivity was his form, which also minimizes the risk of injury.
Tom Platz was one of the most legendary bodybuilders of his time. Gaining popularity in the 1970s and 80s, Platz competed in seven Mr. Olympias as an IFBB professional. With that said, one of the biggest reasons behind his fame is his iconic yet grueling leg workout.
For those unaware, ‘The Golden Eagle‘ made himself known in the bodybuilding space with his remarkable leg development. Although he secured third place in the 1981 Mr. Olympia and won Mr. Universe in 1980, he never really reached the upper echelons of the sport. However, his legs were a different matter entirely, seemingly sculpted out to replicate those of a Greek god.
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With his quads, hamstrings, and calves showing incredible separation and definition, it was no wonder that people hailed him as a great. Now 68 years old, many will be shocked to know that Platz is still going strong with bodybuilding, although now as a coach. With legs like his, it is not difficult to see why some big-name celebrities and athletes come to him for advice.
Tom Platz leg workout
Due to his massive and impressive legs, many have often wondered about Platz’s leg workout. For the most part, he likely recommends different workouts to his clients according to their needs. With that said, his renowned leg workout was previously revealed, more specifically, the exercises and the order in which he does them. Depending on what sources you choose to look at, there will be slight variations in the number of sets and reps.
However, before starting things off, Platz would often emphasize the importance of proper form and technique. According to the bodybuilder, the key to his longevity and productivity was his form, which also minimizes the risk of injury. Other than this, Tom also recommends starting any workout with a series of stretches. Notably, this ensures full mobility, safety, and effectiveness of the workout that follows.
For those interested in doing these exercises, you can easily find detailed guides and videos online, showing you how to execute them properly. With that said, Tom Platz’s renowned leg workout included the following leg exercises:
- Back Squats: 10-12 sets, 5-20 reps
- Hack Squats: 7 sets, 10-15 reps
- Leg Extension: 8-10 sets, 10-15 reps
- Leg Curls: 6-10 sets, 10-15 reps
- Standing Calf Raises: 4-8 sets, 10-15 reps
- Seated Calf Raises: 6-8 sets, 10-15 reps
- Hack Machine Calf Raises: 4-6 sets, 5-10 reps.
Over time, numerous fitness influencers and content creators have tried to replicate this workout, as closely to Platz’s as possible. Designed to put the legs under intense strain and push them to the point of exhaustion, it is understandable why many take up the challenge. Thus, it can be said that there are no easy or simple workouts in any of Tom’s training sessions.
Tom Platz’s leg measurements
As for Tom Platz himself, he has been known to push his body to the extreme with his workouts. According to sources, his squat training sessions included squatting 225 lbs for at least 10 minutes. This would then be followed up by squatting 765 lbs for one rep, and 23 reps of squatting with 525 lbs.
Over the years, we have seen many workout videos of Platz grinding out, and performing 30, 40, and even 50 reps. Owing to his massive leg development during his prime, measuring over 30 inches, Platz was given titles like ‘The Quad Father’ and ‘Quadzilla’. When it comes to bodybuilding, many are known for their key attributes. Whilst Larry Scott was known for his biceps, Arnold Schwarzenegger is best known for his massive chest.
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Thus, for Platz to be known for his enormous legs, it is a matter of great respect and pride. Although there were some with even bigger quads, like Ronnie Coleman and Big Ramy, Platz had show-winning hamstrings, great glutes, and near-perfect calves. Thus, when it comes to the best legs in bodybuilding, Tom takes the cake over everyone else. After all, bodybuilding is also about symmetry, shape, and definition.
Arnold Schwarzenegger’s leg workout
For the most part, Arnold Schwarzenegger is also one of the most successful bodybuilders of all time. Prior to transitioning to Hollywood, Arnold achieved a lot of success, being a 7x Mr. Olympia winner. Notably, had a close relationship with Tom Platz, with the two often training and competing together on occasion. In the past, Platz even admitted to not being able to keep up with ‘The Terminator’ franchise star.
However, it is to be noted that whilst Arnold found way more success in his career. Although his legs were considerably smaller than Platz’s, he had a much more balanced shape, overall. Naturally, this becomes understandable when you take a look at his leg workout, which is nowhere near as grueling or intense as his training partner’s sessions.
As such, Arnold Schwarzenegger’s leg workout is said to entail the following:
- Reverse lunges 8-15 reps
- Single-leg hip thrust 12-20 reps (each side)
- Wall squat hold 30-60 seconds
- Bodyweight squat 10-20 reps
- Plank walkout 8-12 reps
Over the years, Arnie and Tom have formed a great friendship and have supported each other a lot. Although the movie star may have blown the whistle on Platz’s bicep injury ahead of the 1982 Mr. Olympia, he repaid the debt plenty of times over. Having moved to Hollywood, Schwarzenegger put many high-profile clients in touch with Platz, which made him a lot of money, ensuring a successful and lucrative career.
