
Image: Official @herculesbodybuilding on Instagram
Image: Official @herculesbodybuilding on Instagram
Jun 6, 2026, 3:45 PM CUT
Arnold Schwarzenegger Says the Rock Is Stronger Than Him Today
For decades, Arnold Schwarzenegger has set the standard for strength and physique. However, even the bodybuilding legend knows when it’s time to tip his hat to the next generation. On a recent Action Fix podcast, Schwarzenegger surprisingly admitted that Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s current physical strength is more than his own. The admission sparked fresh debate among viewers.
The “The Rock vs Arnold Schwarzenegger” debate has been going on for a long time. While some believe that Schwarzenegger is the ultimate, unmatched icon, some think that he might have finally met his match. Schwarzenegger, however, admits that he believes Johnson is stronger, has more muscles, and is overall doing great.
“There’s a dispute, because The Rock is stronger now than I am. He has more muscles than I have right now. His movies are doing really well. So, there’s nothing to be taken away from The Rock.”

Image: Official @schwarzenegger and @therock on Instagram
Image: Official @schwarzenegger and @therock on Instagram
His confession may have turned a few heads, but it’s great to see an icon like him being so humble and honest.
Of course, he mentions how satisfied he is with where he is in his career and life, and everything he has built.
“I’m very happy with the overall, you know, kind of inventory of what I’ve created in show business.”
The compliment of being called stronger than Schwarzenegger is not one to be taken lightly, especially when it comes from the legend’s own mouth. So, what exactly did it take for The Rock to build his incredible strength and physique?
How The Rock Built a Physique That is Stronger Than Arnold Schwarzenegger's
Getting bigger and stronger than bodybuilding legend, Schwarzenegger himself, is no joke. The Rock follows a heavily regimented routine of heavy weight training, regular conditioning, and strict diets.
As per the Routines Club, The Rock gets an early start every day, waking up at around 4 AM without fail.
"I wake up at 4 AM every day. That hour between 4 and 5 in the morning is mine. It's my time to get ahead."
A 30 to 50 minute cardio drill, followed by a quick breakfast, is what his typical mornings look like. Right after cardio, he heads on over to “Iron Paradise,” his own customized gym, where he trains six days a week.
The Rock has designed a high-volume approach, training specific muscle groups on different days of the week. Sundays are generally kept as rest days or for light cardio.
His first proper meal comes after his morning workout and consists of a protein shake, oatmeal, and egg whites. He consumes anywhere between 5,000 and 7,000 calories a day.
Of course, after intense training and strict diets, he allows himself planned cheat meals. This can include multiple large-sized pizzas, sushi, brownies, and pancakes.
Schwarzenegger’s take on who is stronger now shows not only humility but also earned respect between two icons.
Do you agree with Schwarzenegger’s take on the “The Rock vs Arnold Schwarzenegger” debate? Who do you think deserves the crown?
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Written by

Avantika Das
Edited by

Ashvinkumar Patil