Arthur Jones, often referred to as the “grandfather of bodybuilding,” is a legendary figure in fitness. He was a pioneer of minimalist lifting techniques and the inventor behind the Nautilus exercise machines, which revolutionized strength training through adjustable resistance. Jones advocated for high-intensity workouts, promoting the idea that effective training requires less volume but greater effort.
Arthur Jones and Boyer Coe: A Legacy of Training
One of Jones’s notable mentees was Boyer Coe, a prominent bodybuilder from the 1970s and 80s. Coe earned multiple bodybuilding titles and graced numerous magazine covers during his illustrious career, competing alongside icons like Arnold Schwarzenegger. In a rare 1987 training session, footage showcases Jones’s meticulous coaching style.
Training Philosophy
Jones firmly believed that the intensity of exercise should be maximized, arguing that the proper amount of exercise is minimal. He famously stated, “If you train properly, you don’t need a large amount of exercise.” This philosophy rejected the lengthy workouts common at the time, instead advocating for single-set, high-intensity training methods.
The Workout Session with Boyer Coe
During the workout, Coe began with a calf raise utilizing 300 pounds. Jones emphasized the importance of form, guiding Coe to enhance his technique. The session involved various exercises, each focusing on controlled movements and precise execution. Here’s a summary of the workout:
- Calf Raise: Started at 300 lbs; Coe performed 17 reps with improved form.
- Leg Curl: Utilized 180 lbs; focused on avoiding bouncing weights.
- Weighted Chin-ups: Tasked with 120 lbs; a wager was placed on achieving 10 reps.
- Decline Press: Coe completed 7 reps with guidance from Jones.
- Reverse Fly: Achieved 10 reps, but Jones noted form issues.
- Rotary Torso: Worked on obliques; Coe performed 15-16 reps per side at 150 lbs.
- Lateral Raise: Increased to 160 lbs; performed 10 reps with form corrections.
- Shrugs: Finished at 65 lbs with controlled pauses, increasing reps from 13 to 15.
Final Assessment and Progress
At the conclusion of the session, Jones provided feedback, highlighting Coe’s progress across various exercises. He noted improvements in strength and efforts, reinforcing his training approach based on intensity and precision. Jones emphasized the importance of building muscle through focused, high-quality sets rather than excessive volume.
Jones’s effective coaching methods have left a lasting legacy in the bodybuilding community, influencing generations of athletes like Boyer Coe. His emphasis on intensity and minimalism continues to shape training philosophies today.
