Joseph Baena is following in his father's footsteps. The son of Arnold Schwarzenegger announced he will compete in his first professional bodybuilding show. His debut will likely be for the NPC Natural Colorado State competition.

He announced the news on March 15 through an Instagram post, but did not reveal the name of the competition.

Now, according to TMZ Sports, the 28-year-old bodybuilder will make his debut on March 28 at the NPC Natural Colorado State competition.

In the meantime, Schwarzenegger's youngest son has shared an update, posting a montage of his photos and a video from the competition venue.

He posted the update on his Instagram on March 28 with the caption: “tanned up and checked in! Ready for tomorrow's show.”

The post instantly went viral and not only drew attention from his fans but also from some bodybuilding legends, who sent their best wishes to Baena before the competition.

For instance, Victor Martinez, the 2007 Arnold Classic winner, commented, “nothing like the first show. Let's get it!💪🏽”.

In addition, the official account of Arnold Sports Festival commented, “Let's go!💪 Best of luck, Joe!”

Although this is Baena's first professional bodybuilding competition, he has received advice from some of the best in the industry: his own father.

For instance, on March 24, the Austrian Oak himself guided his youngest son during a gym session. In another post, the 7-time Mr. Olympia was seen coaching Baena through posing drills.

Moreover, Baena frequently posts workout and diet videos on Instagram.

While Baena is already set to dominate the stage, his journey so far has not been easy.

Arnold Schwarzenegger’s Son Joseph Baena’s Struggles Before Stepping Into Bodybuilding

Baena did not get the shredded physique overnight. He earned it through hard work and consistency.

On a July 18, 2025, Instagram post, he revealed that in his childhood, he had to face issues due to being overweight.

He said, “People sometimes forget that I used to be chubby in high school. I got cut from my basketball and soccer team because I couldn’t keep up with the other kids”.

However, it was swimming that changed his life. He added that he also tried other high-intensity movements, but swimming worked best for him.

Baena added, “Everyone starts somewhere, but starting is the most important”.

So, from being overweight to appearing at his first professional bodybuilding stage, he proved that with consistency, guidance, and discipline, transformation is possible.

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Written by

Supradeep Dutta

Edited by

Ashvinkumar Patil