THEY have trained with the likes of action heroes Arnold Schwarzenegger and The Incredible Hulk to achieve their ripped physiques.

But now the biggest names of body building are coming from across the world to Southampton to talk about their massive muscles, passion for posing and lifting weights of more than 500lb – the equivalent to an adult polar bear.

Tom Platz, a retired American professional bodybuilder known as ‘The Golden Eagle’ and ‘The Quadfather’ who last competed in 1986 and the 1983 Mr Olympia Samir Bannout, known as The Lion of Lebanon are among the bulging hulks coming to the city to talk everything fitness. 

 

Legends Live takes place at 02 Guildhall Southampton and gives fitness fanatics the chance to rub shoulders with body building greats who will take part in meet and greet sessions as well as question and answer sessions on stage.

Organiser Carlos Fernandez, from Muscle Promotion, who is a bodybuilder and personal trainer, said: “It’s a chance for the fans to get up close to their body building idols and have the chance to ask them about stories from back in their day and trade secrets.

“More importantly it’s an amazing chance to get everyone interested in fitness and body building out of the gym and under one roof.

“I hope people are inspired by some of the names that will be there on the day. They are legends.”

The family-friendly event in association with the Southampton’s Spartan Gym takes place on Saturday, April 18 from 5.30pm with tradestands and shows.

Daily Echo: Samir Bannout.

Among those flexing their bulging biceps will be strongman Terry Hollands, body builder James Llewellyn and Southampton personal trainer Dan Mitchell giving tips to fans as well as a surprise appearance from a body building legend.

Carlos, 41, who was a trainer in the army for ten years, has competed in ten competitions including being crowned Mr Scotland in 2010, said: “For many people this event will be one of a kind.

“Absolutely anyone is welcome along and they can ask all types of questions to the legends.

“Body building isn’t for everyone. It takes a lot of commitment, dedication and discipline. Preparing for competition you may be eating anything from 4,000 right up to 10,000 calories a day and training hard.

“People might look at Arnie or some of the legends back in the day and think that body isn’t achievable but it really is. Anyone can do what they want as long as their heart and soul goes into it.”