Judging by his workouts, you couldn’t tell that Lou Ferrigno underwent shoulder surgery last year. In a Facebook post from May 20, 2026, he discussed having 95% of his tendon reattached and credited his physical shape for helping him make a full recovery.
Lou Ferrigno was one of the most imposing Open bodybuilders to compete during the Golden Era. His monstrous delts and massive legs made him incredibly difficult to stand against. Throughout his prime, Ferrigno pushed legends of the sport, including Frank Zane, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Robby Robinson.
Ferrigno successfully transitioned from bodybuilding into acting, a path also taken by Schwarzenegger. His biggest claim to fame was starring in the CBS hit TV series The Incredible Hulk (1978-1982). In addition to acting today, Ferrigno hasn’t abandoned consistent training and called it one of his secrets to longevity.
Bodybuilding Legend Lou Ferrigno Opens Up on Shoulder Surgery & Being Active to Stay Young at 74
In the post, Ferrigno stressed the importance of maintaining your best physical shape to bounce back from surgeries.
“I’ve got to tell you something. Last December, like I mentioned before, I had shoulder surgery. I had 95% of my tendon reattached. I’ll tell you, people that have shoulder replacement, hip replacement, any kind of surgery when it comes to the joints, it’s very important to be in the best physical shape.”
He explained that because he’s physically fit, he can already complete a full range of motion on exercises like the chest press.
“I’ve seen that those who have had surgery, they would labor and rehab for months afterward to get the same condition back. But because I’m in good shape, I may come back knowing I can do these range of motions again all with 100 percent.”
According to Ferrigno, tendons receive less blood flow as we age, which is why training is so crucial to lasting health.
“When you age, you have the ability to embrace the aging process. What does that mean? After the age of 60, the tendons have less blood flow and the tendons tend to be more brittle.”
He added that he can look like a 45 or 55-year-old thanks to consistent training. In contrast, he pointed out that men who don’t stay active look older.
“I’m 74 now because I’m exercising so well, once a night, eat, that’s why I can look like a person that’s 55 or even 45. Men my age who don’t exercise look older, especially when it comes paying attention to the body. Maximum health, maximum mental attitude, and maximum physical effort,” said Lou Ferrigno.
Age is just a number for Ferrigno. He has dedicated most of his life to training, and it shows. He recently shared a photo of his ripped six-pack and noted that proper eating, sleep, and training have been critical to his success on and off the stage.
Ferrigno doesn’t underestimate the power of consistent workouts. He believes staying active is the number one ingredient needed to age gracefully.
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