Training Like Arnold - Then and Now

Mak
Jun 17
2 min read

By Mak Singh | Powerlifter | Coach | Author of “Unlock Your Greatness”

Over the past two weeks, many of you have asked me about my training routine. Especially after I shared that unforgettable moment with Arnold Schwarzenegger himself.

Truth is, I’ve been following Arnold’s principles for most of my life. As a huge fan growing up, I devoured The New Encyclopedia of Modern Bodybuilding. That book wasn’t just pages and pictures to me, it was a blueprint. A guide. A philosophy. And when I landed my first lead role in a film, I knew there was only one way I wanted to prepare for the camera: the Arnold way.

The Film Prep Era: Training Like a Champion

Back then, I trained year-round using Arnold’s competition routine, and yes, it was brutal.

Chest and Back and Legs on the same day
Shoulders and Arms on the same day
Six days a week with weights
Plus, two cardio sessions everyday.

This wasn’t a casual gym-goer’s plan, it was a full-body assault, built on supersets, intensity, and classic volume. It built not just my physique, but my mindset. That discipline shaped how I approached acting, business, and life.

Today’s Routine: The Hybrid Evolution

Now, as I prepare for the World Masters Powerlifting Championship 2026, my training has evolved. It's still deeply rooted in Arnold’s philosophy, train hard, train often, train with purpose, but I’ve blended it with my powerlifting approach, which prioritizes:

Strength over volume
Focused compound lifts
Progressive overload
Recovery and mobility

I’ve created a hybrid style: Old-school bodybuilding volume + modern powerlifting strength.

Some days I still use the Arnold split — especially for upper-body hypertrophy. Other days are purely built around deadlifts, squats, and bench press mechanics.

It’s not about mimicking anymore — it’s about honouring the methods that built me, while optimizing for the next stage in my journey.

Why It Matters

The goal isn’t just to look strong, it’s to be strong, feel strong, and stay strong.

Arnold taught me that training is about vision, discipline, and showing up, even when it’s hard. That’s still the foundation of everything I do.

I’m training not just for a title, but to inspire others who think their best days are behind them. They’re not.

Thanks to everyone who’s asked about my training. I’ll keep sharing updates, sessions, and tips along the way.

Let’s keep lifting - and unlocking greatness.

#Mak Singh #RoadToWorldMasters2026 #TrainingWithPurpose #ArnoldInspiration #UnlockYourGreatness #HybridStrength #BodybuildingAndPowerlifting