Arnold Schwarzenegger’s son, Joseph Baena, is following the actor’s steps and not necessarily in Hollywood. Baena’s career as a bodybuilder draws inspiration from one of the sport’s most legendary figures, continuing with the legacy, discipline, transformation, and a deep-rooted passion for fitness that his father has been known for decades.
In a recent interview with GQ, Baena shared details about how he realized he had a growing interest in health and fitness. “My dad gave me the bodybuilding encyclopedia,” Baena shared, referring to Schwarzenegger’s guide. “I was flipping through that, trying to learn how to grow the biceps, and I fell in love with weightlifting.”
According to Baena, the encyclopedia sparked something in him. “I fell in love with eating healthy. I fell in love with learning about the body and how it reacts to training, and I became very passionate about it,” he told the publication.
Training With a Legend
Most people would hire a trainer, but when your dad is Arnold Schwarzenegger, every guide and motivation you need to succeed in the field is pretty much in your backyard. Baena started to put the theory into practice and took the rare opportunity to train with Schwarzenegger at Gold’s Gym Venice. This specific location is widely known as the birthplace of modern bodybuilding.
“He’s the best training partner. I don’t know what to say,” Baena admitted, mesmerized with his dad’s presence and how the Austrian and American actor, politician, and former professional bodybuilder brings accountability and mentorship. “He pushes me. He makes sure that I don’t slack off in the gym. When the carbs are low and the calories are low and I start getting tired, he pumps me up.”
Baena’s Breakout Moment
Baena is putting all his effort into bodybuilding and lifting, so much so that his dedication is paying off in a major way. He recently celebrated earning first place in multiple divisions — including Men’s Open Body Heavyweight and Men’s Classic Physique True Novice — at the NPC Natural Colorado State competition.
To mark the moment, he took to social media to share a photo of his debut with the caption: “Mission Accomplished!” alongside the emoji of a gold medal. His win also came after winning the INBA Iron Gladiator classic physique championship on April 4.
Following a Legendary Blueprint
Schwarzenegger’s legacy in bodybuilding is nearly unmatched, and Baena is not trying to become his dad; however, having the seven-time winner of Mr. Olympia and five-time winner of Mr. Universe is a plus anyone would love to have, and Joseph is making sure to soak up all the information.
© Michael Ochs ArchivesWhat makes Baena’s story interesting is how, despite having all the resources available at the moment, his journey hasn’t been without challenges. “I was chubby,” he admitted, revealing that he was cut from his basketball and soccer teams because he couldn’t keep up with the rest of his teammates.
Passionate about sports, he decided to give swimming a try. “Swim didn’t have tryouts, thankfully, and completely changed my life forever,” he said. “That was my introduction to fitness and training.”
© Bellocqimages/Bauer-GriffinWhile Joseph Baena’s story seems to be rooted in legacy, his determination and personal grit also play an important role in his champion mindset. The hands-on mentorship from Arnold Schwarzenegger adds an extra, but Joe is surely carving out his own lane in the bodybuilding world, all while making his dad (and trainer) proud.
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