I wanted to be Samson or Hercules from the age of six.

I do some dairy. I'm careful on that; it needs to be hormone free. But everybody has to have ice cream!

I didn't train for powerlifting. I trained as a bodybuilder. I had to train to stress the muscle and not because of what was on the bar. I think my strategy was a good one because I have no aches, pains, or lingering injuries from training today. I feel great.

I knew that I had to train with intensity and focus, but I never thought about the weight on the bar.

I was only 24 years old when I won my first Olympia. To be that young and the world champion was a lot of pressure. When I won the 8th one, I had the record. I was on top: that was the absolute best that I ever looked onstage, the best training and prep that I had done, and I had no regrets. I knew it was time to walk away.

Weight training has enjoyed a huge impact, and the transformation has gone mainstream. I'm fortunate to be part of it.

I love the way this sport has evolved and impacted every segment of society. Now you have cross training and weight training in every sport and from middle school kids to senior citizens.

Once you get a perfect score, you don't want anything less. When you get less, then I guess it's time to step aside.

I think what makes me successful is that I'm so different from the other guys.

I've stayed basic through all the years. Beans, rice, fish, chicken. Water. Clean water. A must. Green vegetables, fruit, grains, whole wheat.