Bodybuilding legend Ronnie Coleman hasn’t stopped sculpting his physique in retirement. Even though he struggles to walk following back injuries, Coleman’s dedication to longevity is an inspiration. In a recent YouTube video, “The King” joined gym equipment founder Rudy Panatta for a back training session.
Long before he became a Mr. Olympia champion, Coleman planted the seeds to become a dominant titleholder. His ability to push boundaries inside the gym helped him develop a fierce reputation in the IFBB Pro League. In 1998, Coleman won the Mr. Olympia, where he blended mass and conditioning to near perfection.
But it wasn’t just Coleman’s achievements on the bodybuilding stage that made him so imposing, it was the raw power he displayed lifting weights. During his tenure, Coleman’s fame grew after he completed an 800-pound squat, an 800-pound deadlift, and a 2,300-pound leg press for reps.
In a show of respect, powerlifter Larry Wheels recently teamed up with Coleman for a heavy-duty training session, where his squat and leg press strength was challenged. To this day, many regard Coleman as one of the strongest bodybuilders to ever compete.
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As the owner of eight Mr. Olympia titles (tied for the most w/ Lee Haney), Coleman’s contributions to the sport are set in stone. However, that hasn’t stopped him from training. While he struggles with a few health problems, Coleman continues to test himself inside the gym.
8x Mr. Olympia Ronnie Coleman and Rudy Panatta Build Bigger Backs
Check out Coleman’s two-exercise workout below:
“What’s up guys, about to train some back real hard, yeah buddy!” Coleman shared.
“You’re 72, but you look better than some 22-year-olds because you take care of your body. I’m trying to get there too.”
- Super lat pulldown circular – 2 sets 12-20 reps
- Super high row (neutral grip) – 3 sets 20 reps
In light of Coleman’s health concerns, he’s introduced stem cell therapy. He says he’s feeling better with each passing treatment and revealed that he’s reduced his painkiller intake as a result. Mamdouh ‘Big Ramy’ Elssbiay’s stem cell doctor, Dr. Khan, said he’s confident with more therapy sessions, he could ‘fix’ Coleman and described the legend’s health problem as ‘nervous system related, not structural.’
Back in June, Coleman provided fans with a health update. He revealed his walking is about the same and that he still requires assistance. While he admits that he’s felt less pain lately, he said his mobility hasn’t improved. To remedy that issue, he shared an interest in chiropractor sessions.
Last month, Rudy and Big Ron met up to discuss a business opportunity. Coleman’s supplement company decided to team up with Panatta Equipment to kickstart the company’s North American expansion. In addition to that venture, Coleman recently opened a MetroFlex Gym in Tampa, Florida.
You can watch the full video from Coleman’s YouTube channel below:
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