Meet the Human Hulk: Mr. Olympia Legend Ronnie Coleman

Meet Ronnie Coleman, the most decorated bodybuilder of all time. Once we were able to tear our eyes away from his bulging muscles, we asked the eight-time Mr. Olympia what music he works out to, what scares him and whether he ever has trouble opening jars.

What got you into bodybuilding?
When I was about 12 years old, people would always ask me if I worked out. I guess I was a muscle kid. Well, I got sick and tired of being asked so I figured, heck, why don't I work out and see what I look like. I took a liking to it and continued to work out for football. When I graduated college and started working for the police, I was offered a free membership from a gym owner in exchange to compete. The rest is history.

What’s more important to achieving a muscular body: genetics or hard work?
It’s actually a combination of both. Hard work will always guarantee you look good, but genetics determine how quickly you get there.

What’s the heaviest thing you’ve ever lifted?
I’ve squatted over 800 pounds several times, dead-lifted over 800 pounds and benched over 600 pounds.

How long do you work out every day?
I do about 2 hours. Maybe a little less because I’m not competing.

What are your views on the term “meathead”?
Usually comes from people that aren’t into fitness and can’t appreciate the hard work it takes to grow muscle. Most of the time it’s jealousy. I personally don’t like labeling people, especially based on the way they look.

Was there anything you learned from your accounting major that helps your bodybuilding?
Counting plates! [laughs] To be honest, I would never have become a bodybuilder had I gotten a job in accounting. Luckily, everyone I interviewed with wanted someone with experience.

What's the most common question you get from your fans?
What’s my favorite Mr. Olympia win. The first one, of course!

What music do you like to work out to?
Hardcore rap all the way. Biggie and Tupac are my favorites.

If you could be anything other than a bodybuilder, what would you be?
Football player. I always wanted to play in the NFL.

What’s the biggest misconception Chinese people have about bodybuilding?
I would say supplement knowledge. Supplements are huge in the US and play an important role in bodybuilding. I’m not sure the knowledge is there yet.

What's your advice to people who aspire to get fit?
Find a partner that knows a lot about bodybuilding and suck up as much knowledge as possible. You can grow from just listening.

What scares you?
I ain’t scared of nothing! I was a cop for 15 years. You can't be scared when you’re a cop.

What’s the strangest thing you’ve been asked to advertise for?
Fat-burning belt. Definitely not into those.

What animal would be best at bodybuilding?
Lion. They have a lot of testosterone.

Can a person work out too much?
For sure. Rest and recovery is just as important.

How many supplements do you take a day?
I take about 60 pills two times a day.

Can a person take too many supplements?
Yes. Like everything in life you have to find middle ground. You can over eat, drink and so on. It’s no different with supplements.

Do you ever use your size to get away with things?
Who, me?! No way! [laughs] Of course.

Would you want your child to be a bodybuilder?
If it makes her happy, I’m all for it!

Do you ever struggle with opening jars?
Jars are scared of me. They open themselves.

Ronnie Coleman will be in Beijing from July 18-22 to host three separate events:

Elite Nutrition Center Signing and Photo Event
Ronnie Coleman will be hosting a meet-and-greet in front of the health store. Jul 21. Free (but priority will be given to those who have purchased Ronnie Coleman Signature Series products). 1.30-2.30pm. Elite Nutrition Center, Chaowai Soho (151 1699 3719)

Ronnie Coleman Reception
Ronnie Coleman will join top professional Chinese bodybuilders on stage. He will also be available to sign autographs and take photos with fans. Tickets are on sale at Elite Nutrition Center's Chaowai Soho Store. Jul 21. RMB 88, RMB 198 (VIP). 6.30-9.30pm. Bridge Art Center (8580 0260)

Ronnie Coleman Training Camp
Includes demonstrations of proper form, a discussion on proper nutrition and supplement use as well as a chance to resolve personal questions and concerns. All participants will be awarded a certificate of completion signed by Ronnie Coleman. Reserve at 151 1699 3719. 1) Jul 19. 1-2.30pm. 2) Jul 22. 9-10.30am. RMB 3,000 (includes 2,400 of Ronnie Coleman Signature Series products). Venue TBD

For more information, sign up for Elite Nutrition Center’s mailing list at enc.beijing@gmail.com or click here.

Photos: Courtesy of Ronnie Coleman