Mike Mentzer

Intro Mike Mentzer** (1951 – 2001) was an American professional bodybuilder, author, and fitness theorist known for his advocacy of **High-Intensity Training (HIT)**. Born in Ephrata, Pennsylvania, Mentzer began weight training at the age of 12 and quickly developed a passion for bodybuilding. Mentzer rose to prominence in the 1970s, achieving his peak competitive success in 1979 when he won the **IFBB Mr. Universe** title with a perfect score — a first in bodybuilding history. He was a major rival of Arnold Schwarzenegger and competed in the controversial 1980 Mr. Olympia, after which he retired from competition. A philosopher as well as an athlete, Mentzer was heavily influenced by the ideas of Ayn Rand and Objectivism, which shaped his approach to training and life. He promoted a minimalist, science-based workout philosophy that emphasized brief, infrequent, and intense workouts — a major departure from traditional high-volume routines. After retiring, Mentzer became a respected trainer and writer, publishing several books, including *Heavy Duty* and *High-Intensity Training the Mike Mentzer Way*. He remained active in the fitness community until his death in 2001 at age 49, just two days before his brother Ray Mentzer also passed away. Mentzer's legacy continues to influence bodybuilding and strength training philosophies today. (i couldn't give him the exact voice, but i tried)