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Old-Time Strength: Reg Park

(This is part of a series looking at old time strongmen and bodybuilders and the training methods and programs they followed. Note: The set, reps and weight used will be left out so you can tailor the program to fit your needs and strength levels.)

Reg Park remains one of the greatest bodybuilders Britain has ever produced, with no discredit to any of the previous champions in the UK, be it the era, training methods, or post-war diet restrictions. Reg was the premier British bodybuilder to compare with, compete against and later surpass many of the American champions. Far more than just a muscle man, he had that something extra to distinguish him.

Born in Leeds on June 17th, 1928, Reg enjoyed an athletic childhood, but with no great physical development in evidence as early photos prove. He was introduced to the delights of weight training by bodybuilder Dave Cohen when he was only 17 years old and made fair progress with basic schedules for a year.

Reg enthused with bodybuilding after seeing the Universe show and started training hard as only he could. He increased his bodyweight form 180 lbs to 225 lbs, stood at 6’1” with upper arms gaining quickly from 14” to 18” in just one year. This tough training paid off and resulted with him winning the Mr. Britain 1949 title at a Health and Strength show.

In 1950, Reg entered the NABBA Mr. Universe contest in London. He came a close second to Steve Reeves. After this brief setback, Reg continued undaunted and won the 1951 Mr. Universe title to become the first British bodybuilder to take the top award in bodybuilding. Later in 1958, he became the first man to win two Universe titles.

Some of his top lifts were 510 pounds in the squat, 605 pounds in the bench press, 300 pounds press behind neck and 258 pounds in the dumbbell press.

Here is a Reg Park workout from 1951:

Squats
Bench Press
Dips
Curls
Dumbbell Bench Press
Calf Raises
Chins
Ab Work

Notes: Train consistently 2-3 days per week and add weight to the bar whenever possible and get lots of rest, eat good food and drink plenty of water.

Understand that to be successful in any weight training program – hard work is a must! Half-hearted effort does nothing for you. If you’re new to weight training or grossly out of shape, consult a physician first. End of disclaimer.

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