Bodybuilding legend Lou Ferrigno is still offering tips and tricks for a better physique. In an August 19 video, he broke down five essential pointers to keep in mind while training at the gym.
During the Golden Era of bodybuilding, Ferrigno built his legacy, competing against all-time greats. His rivalry with seven-time Mr. Olympia Arnold Schwarzenegger is still considered one of the most intense in the sport’s history.
While Ferrigno was unable to capture the prestigious Sandow trophy, he still enjoyed huge success as a professional bodybuilder. His most impressive attribute might be his longevity. At 74 years old, he continues to train with intensity, helping guide new lifters on making progress.
Lou Ferrigno’s Tips for Training at a Public Gym
- Hygiene
- Don’t Disrespect Gym Equipment
- Be Respectful to Staff
- Focus on Training Quality
- Stretch + Eat Properly
First and foremost, Ferrigno explained that proper hygiene is a non-negotiable:
“I want to give some good pointers about going to a gym. Number one: respect your hygiene. Use deodorant, take a shower. I’ve seen people sometimes wear the same t-shirt; they don’t bathe, it’s not fair for other people.”
He also shared that being friendly with gym staff is important, and that you should never take your frustration out on gym equipment. He learned this lesson after dropping dumbbells and breaking his toe.
“Number two: be nice with the staff. They are important to be friends with. And number three, do not take your frustration, anger, or vengeance out on the barbells and dumbbells.”
“Many years ago, I remember one day I was really upset about something. I was doing bent-over laterals for the rear delt. I was angry. I threw the dumbbell down. Guess what? I broke my toe. That’s a lesson I learned. Barbells and dumbbells will hit you back,” Lou Ferrigno said.
His fourth tip was to focus, and he warned that a lapse could lead to an injury:
“Number four: the most important thing when you go to a gym is focus. When you’re doing the exercise, cherish every repetition. For example, never engage in conversation with why are you doing the exercise, like for example, the bench press. If you turn your head sideways, any kind of movement you can incur an injury.”
Ferrigno added that you should always stretch post-workout and eat clean for sustained progress.
“The last one: finish the workout stretching. When you go home, just remember, you gave yourself a great workout, but eat the proper food.”
“If you do cardio for an hour, and you go home and eat like two cakes, three pies, that defeats the purpose. It’s important that nutrition is 80%.”
The Mr. Universe champ boasts impressive longevity in retirement. According to Ferrigno, staying in shape, using supplements, and avoiding over-the-counter medications have made the biggest difference for him beyond the stage.
Ferrigno believes common sense can go a long way anytime you’re at a public gym. He believes sticking with these five principles can help you achieve meaningful progress safely.
