40 Photos From the Early Days of Arnold Schwarzenegger's Career
From Muscle Beach to his star-making turn in Pumping Iron
Arnold Schwarzenegger has been a movie star and the Governor of California, but neither would have been possible without going back to his roots: bodybuilding. To celebrate the continued achievements of the Austrian Oak, we’re taking a look back at his long career, from the fitness stage to the big screen and beyond.
1965: A Young Arnold
At 18 years old, Schwarzenegger served in the military, as it was required for all males in Austria to do so at the time. Here, the future celebrity is pictured (centre) with his unit.
1965: Becoming a Bodybuilder
Even at the age of 18, Schwarzenegger was tremendously strong. While in the military, he began competing in body building tournaments and won the Junior Mr. Europe contest. Here he's seen at the start of his career, lifting a woman off of the ground.
1966: Becoming a Winner
After his year in the military, Schwarzenegger began competing in bodybuilding tournaments around Austria. He won a title in Graz, Austria, where he was voted the best body in Austria. Building on that success, he traveled to London for the Mr. Universe championship, where he placed second to his fellow competitor, Chester Yorton.
1967: Winning Mr. Universe
Schwarzenegger entered the Mr. Universe competition the following year and this time left a champion. At the age of 20, he was the youngest body builder to win the competition in history.
1967: Competing Around Europe
The champion bodybuilder continued on the European circuit for a few years. Here he is competing in a stone throwing competition, which he won, in Munich, Germany.
1967: A Rising Star
Within the bodybuilding community, Schwarzenegger was at the top of his field and one of the industry's most promising stars.
1967: Enjoying Success
Although Schwarzenegger never missed a workout, that doesn't mean he didn't enjoy his newfound success. Here, the young star is photographed enjoying a beer at Oktoberfest in Munich.
1970: Winning in America
In 1970, Schwarzenegger won his first Mr. Olympia title in New York–he would go on to win the event a total of seven times.
1976: 'Stay Hungry'
In his first serious role, Schwarzenegger played a weightlifter named Joe Santo who becomes involved with a gym employee (Sally Fields).
1977: Always Up for a Lift
The star playfully lifts iconic actress Raquel Welch at a Golden Globe after-party.
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