Tom Platz, widely hailed as ‘The Quadfather,’ left an indelible mark on the world of bodybuilding during the dynamic era of the 1970s and 1980s.
This article delves into the fascinating biography, workout regimen, and dietary practices of the man whose legs are often considered the Greatest of All Time (GOAT) in bodybuilding history.
| Tom Platz Age | 68 Years |
| Tom Platz Date of Birth | June 26, 1955 |
| Tom Platz Weight | 220 LBS (99.7 KG) |
| Tom Platz Height | 5’-8.5” (174 CM) |
| Tom Platz Nationality | American |
Tom Platz’s Early Life and Transformation
Born on June 26, 1955, in Fort Sill, Oklahoma, USA, Tom Platz’s journey into bodybuilding began at a young age.
A pivotal moment occurred at nine when he stumbled upon a picture of Dave Draper and Betty Weider.
This ignited a desire to sculpt a strong physique. Under his father’s guidance, Tom Platz, despite a lower back issue, embarked on weightlifting, initially neglecting leg training.
At 15, Tom Platz moved to Kansas City, securing a job as a gym instructor due to his impressive physique.
Here, interactions with serious lifters revealed the importance of proper squat techniques.
Moving to Detroit further honed his leg training, transforming his once-skinny legs into a powerhouse. The Quadfather was born.
Tom Platz Bodybuilding Career
Tom Platz’s commitment to bodybuilding extended beyond mere muscle development. Armed with a Bachelor’s degree in Science Physiology, a master’s degree in Fitness Science, and an MBA from the University of California, Tom Platz embraced a multifaceted career as a professional bodybuilder, professor, and corporate director.
Turning pro at 18 after winning the 1978 World Amateur Championships, Tom Platz etched his name in bodybuilding history.
His Olympia debut in 1978 marked the beginning of a career that saw highs and lows. While the coveted Mr. Olympia title eluded him, Tom Platz’s third-place finish in 1981 exemplified his prowess.
Retiring in 1987, Tom Platz’s competition history includes notable achievements, such as victories at the World Amateur Championships and participation in prestigious events like the Mr. Olympia.
Tom Platz Competition History
- 1978: World Amateur Championships – 1st place, USA World Qualifier – 1st place
- 1979: Mr. Olympia – 8th place
- 1980: World Pro – 2nd place, Grand Prix Pennsylvania – 10th place, Night of Champions – 12th place, Mr. Olympia – 9th place
- 1981: Mr. Olympia – 3rd place
- 1982: Mr. Olympia – 6th place
- 1984: Mr. Olympia – 9th place
- 1985: Mr. Olympia – 7th place
- 1986: Mr. Olympia – 11th place
- 1987: Detroit Pro – 6th place
Tom Platz Diet Plan
Tom Platz maintained a disciplined diet, consuming high-protein meals frequently to sustain his energy levels.
Given his intense training and high caloric burn, Tom Platz’s diet was rich in macro and micronutrients.
A Full Day of Eating (Competitive Years)
- Meal 1 (Pre-workout): 2 Slices of Whole Grain Toast with Butter and Jelly, Juice or Milk, Coffee, Supplements
- Lunch (After workout): 3 to 6 Eggs, Hamburger Patty, Sliced Tomatoes, Juice, 2 Slices of Whole Grain Bread
- Snacks: Cheese and Crackers, 1 glass of Milk
- Dinner: Large Prime Rib Salad with Cottage Cheese and Nuts, Bread and Butter, Piece of Pie or Ice Cream, Coffee or Milk
- Snacks: Ice Cream Pints or Bag of Nuts
Tom Platz Workout Routine
Tom Platz Training Style
Tom Platz’s training philosophy, often termed ‘freaky style training,’ was characterized by intense workouts pushing beyond failure.
In his twenties, he trained twice daily, targeting each body part twice a week.
Transitioning to a four-day-on, one-day-off routine in his thirties, Tom Platz focused on elevating his upper body to match his formidable lower body.
Tom Platz Training Week
In the 1980s, Tom Platz followed a four-day training week. Notable workouts included chest/back, shoulders, arms, and legs, emphasizing both isolation and compound exercises.
A Typical Training Week
Chest (Day 1 – Morning):
Incline Dumbbell Press, Dumbbell Flyes, Pec Deck Flyes, Weighted Dips
Back (Day 1 – Evening):
Pull-ups, Lat Pulldowns, T-Bar Rows, Low Cable Rows, Dumbbell Pullovers
Shoulders (Day 2):
Smith Machine Military Press, Dumbbell Lateral Raises, One Arm Cable Lateral Raises, Barbell Upright Rows, Bent Over Dumbbell Lateral Raises, Cable Rear Lateral Raises
Arms (Day 3):
Standing Barbell Curls, Incline Dumbbell Curls, Machine Bicep Curls, Cable Triceps Pushdowns, Close Grip Bench Press, One Arm Dumbbell Triceps Extensions, Barbell Wrist Curls
Legs (Day 4):
Barbell Squats, Hack Squats, Leg Extensions, Lying Leg Curls, Standing Calf Raises, Seated Calf Raises
Abs (On any Day):
Crunches, Twists, Roman Chair Leg Raises
Tom Platz’s Net Worth: A Multifaceted Fortune
As of 2023, Tom Platz, renowned as ‘The Quadfather’ in the world of bodybuilding, boasts a total net worth estimated to be a substantial $14 million.
While his fame primarily stems from his illustrious bodybuilding career, Tom Platz’s financial portfolio is a testament to his diverse ventures and savvy business acumen.
Bodybuilding Career Earnings
A significant portion of Tom Platz’s wealth is attributed to his stellar bodybuilding career.
The accolades, sponsorships, and winnings from various competitions, including the World Amateur Championships and his numerous appearances at the prestigious Mr. Olympia, have contributed substantially to his financial success.
As a legendary figure in the sport, Tom Platz’s influence extended beyond the stage, leading to opportunities such as book deals and endorsements.
Philanthropy and Giving Back
Tom Platz, known for his inspiring and down-to-earth demeanor, is a believer in sharing and giving back to the community.
While his philanthropic endeavors might not directly contribute to his net worth, they highlight his commitment to making a positive impact beyond the realms of bodybuilding and business.
In essence, Tom Platz’s net worth is a culmination of his multifaceted career, combining the earnings from bodybuilding, literary pursuits, astute investments, and a genuine commitment to philanthropy.
As ‘The Quadfather’ continues to inspire and influence, his financial success remains a testament to both his physical and entrepreneurial prowess.
To Conclude
Tom Platz’s journey from a young boy dreaming of a muscular physique to becoming ‘The Quadfather’ demonstrates the power of commitment, learning, and adaptability.
His legacy as a bodybuilding icon is not just in the records but in the inspiration he provides to aspiring athletes.
Tom Platz’s relentless pursuit of perfection, both in mind and body, leaves an enduring imprint on the rich tapestry of bodybuilding history.