Tom Platz, a retired American professional bodybuilder, was renowned for his leg development, which in his prime measured over 30 inches in circumference. It earned him a nickname, The Quadfather.
Even at the age of 70, he continues to work out, and his legs remain remarkably strong.
Tom Platz to once said… pic.twitter.com/bmmFWTQAZl
— Krystian Kowalczyk (@MRKOWALCZYK7) August 7, 2024
After reading Mr. Universe magazine, Tom decided to become a professional bodybuilder at the age of 11.
He weighed around 165 pounds at 15 and joined Armento’s Gym, where he learned the proper technique for squatting. Later, he developed strength and muscle size rapidly.
In 1977, Tom moved to Venice, California, and trained at Gold’s Gym. He won his class at the Mr. Universe in the same year.
Moreover, he faced ‘Dr. Squat’ Fred Hatfield in a squat competition that was completed in two phases in 1992. He completed 23 reps for 525 pounds, whereas Dr. Squat managed 11 reps.
However, Dr. Squat squatted 855 pounds to Platz’s 765 pounds.
Besides bodybuilding, the Quadfather is also an actor. His acting credits include Who Killed Johnny Love?, 8 Heads in a Duffel Bag, Book of Love, Twins, and The Comeback.
Similarly, he co-wrote Pro-Style Bodybuilding.
Tom Platz Is A 70-year-old Beast Who Still Squats
Tom Platz is often regarded as one of the most intense bodybuilders in history and remains a living legend in the fitness world.
He is known for his freakish leg development. Moreover, he built his reputation on training to total failure, pushing his muscles beyond conventional limits.
Tom Platz has been the best dressed bodybuilder all along pic.twitter.com/mymdfA85eN
— William Lagakos (@caloriesproper2) April 27, 2025
Tom retired from competitive bodybuilding in 1987, but his passion for lifting has never faded.
Now, 0-year-old retired professional bodybuilder recently stunned fans by filming a brutal leg workout.
Demonstrating the same relentless intensity that made him famous, Platz squatted 175 pounds with flawless depth.
He followed up with leg extensions, incorporating his signature partial reps to maximize time under tension. It’s a technique science now confirms is highly effective for muscle growth.
About a year or so ago, but I’m still preaching about the value of the Pure Squat (my Ministry) and how it does affect your Life and Longevity.
Tom Platz
Platz’s training methods were revolutionary. His use of partial reps, particularly in the lengthened position, helped sculpt his legendary hamstrings and quads.
Research supports his approach, showing that partial reps in the stretched position can enhance hypertrophy. Even today, bodybuilders emulate his techniques to maximize gains.
Decades after his last appearance at the Olympia, Platz continues to motivate lifters worldwide. His recent leg workout and a follow-up leg shot prove that age is just a number.
Among those praising his dedication was 7x Mr. Olympia Phil Heath, who applauded Platz’s relentless drive.
Tom Platz Wished To Bring Out The Champion In All Of His Followers
At 70 years old, Tom Platz reflects on a life he never expected to live this long. Yet he knows there’s a reason he’s still here.
He had no decision in the matter and expressed that his career and God had chosen him.
“You cannot be a victim to your genetics. Your genetics must be a victim to you.”
— Antoni Campbell🇻🇦 (@AntoniRCampbell) June 27, 2025
-Tom Platz pic.twitter.com/lg3Dlc5xK7
Platz has no regrets and remains committed to serving the fitness industry and his followers for as long as he lives and hopefully beyond.
He is grateful for the purpose his fans have given him, and his team created The Platzinum to continue his mission of showing people how to win. His ultimate goal is to teach through training tips, golden-era bodybuilding stories, or throwback content from the 70s.
As you get older, it really doesn’t matter how long a person has known you. In 2 months, you realize those who are willing to support, build and grow with you without looking for just financial benefits. These are your Root People.
Tom Platz
He believes there’s a champion inside all of us, and his job is to help you find it.
Platz pushed through discomfort and sacrifice to achieve greatness. But he also emphasizes that true success shouldn’t come at the expense of others. He warns his followers that sacrifice leads to success and selfishness leads to sorrow.
Furthermore, he learned fulfillment comes from being needed, and those challenges shaped his resilience. Now, he channels that same energy into inspiring others.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Thomas Steven Platz has been married three times and calls his third wife, Cha Nikito, the best thing that has ever happened to him.
- He stands 1.72 meters tall and weighs approximately 230 pounds.
- As of 2026, his net worth is estimated to be $2 million.
