Reviewing the Masters (part 2 of 2)
Last week we discussed the classic (old) book: Arnold - The Education of a Bodybuilder. As I concluded, time didn't treat this book too well, as far as training and nutritional advice goes. This week we have a considerably more recent topic: Blood'n'Guts by Dorian Yates, 6-time Mr.Olympia (retired last year).
Blood'n'Guts
This book, as opposed to Arnold, is more focused on the actual workout regime than Dorian's personal life. Still, you can read a lot between the lines.
Like Arnold, "humbleness" and "modesty" are not the best words to describe Dorian. But then again, he's The Champ, and that's all there's to it - He can get away with it, because he earned it (as opposed some wannabes with inflated egos that you might read about in the bodybuilder mags).
Naturally, a part of the book covers the winning attitude, the confidence, and the focus that is required - and acquired - through his astonishing career. He was a winner before even walking onstage, so once there it was only a matter of procedure until he could take the Sandow home. Sounds similar to Arnold? Of course it does - the similarity in mindset is striking. And with running the risk of being repetitive since last week, this is what you should really focus on. If you've got the right attitude, the technical part regarding training and nutrition will come naturally - if you've got the technique right but lack the determination and focus, you'll never reach your full potential. Dorian's background is a lot less polished and established than Arnold's. He was a typical street punk, a tattooed skinhead that got in trouble with the law and ended up in a youth correction facility. Once there he discovered that he had talent and made a choice - he'd get out of his current life and build a better one along with his body. While Arnold started out as a young teen, Dorian didn't get serious about the gym until he was 21 - then while working a tough job as an industrial cleaner. Not exactly your cute silver-spoon-in-mouth story.
On a personal note, I think Dorian's accomplishment is even more admirable than Arnold's - he not only became a true champion, Number One, he also did it against all odds, and in a conscious effort to make something of his life. And he did so while having a balanced life, as a responsible father and husband.
Latest Articles