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Old-Time Strength: Steve Reeves

(This is the final 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.)

Steve Reeves was born on January 21, 1925 in Glasgow, Montana. He began bodybuilding when he was 15, being the first to admit he had a good foundation and was an ‘easy gainer’, and after a year or so, soon had a potentially powerful physique. His first instruction was at Ed Yarick’s gym in Oakland, California where he was encouraged to enter and – won, all local contests.

Reeves served in World War II and during that time he managed to obtain some training, albeit often with Tarzan like rope climbing, general free exercises, such as push-ups or dips, and tension exercises. Later he designed his own weights and basic pulley apparatus.

In 1947, Reeves won the Mr America contest in Chicago at the age of 21. Reeves came in second in the contest in 1948 and also came in second to a 40-year old John Grimek at the Mr. Universe contest in London. That was to be Grimek’s final competition. After finishing third in 1949, Reeves won the Mr. Universe title in 1950.

Reeves went on to international fame for playing the role of “Hercules” in the 1959 movie. He would reprise the role in “Hercules Unchained” in 1960. Reeves, who passed away in 2000, was the last of the steroid free bodybuilders.

Here is the workout Reeves used during his 1950 Mr. Universe win:

Overhead Press
Squats
Calf Raises
Dips
Chins
Rows
Incline Dumbbell Curls
Ab Work

(Reeves would work to failure with little rest between exercises, Grimek mentions this in Strength and Health Magazine in 1964.)

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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