· bodybuilding · 6 min read
Tom Platz Leg Workout (WARNING: Do Not Try Without Steroids)
The Tom Platz leg workout is something that 99% of people won't be able to finish. Today, we go over the exact sets and reps the legend used to be crowned The Quadfather.
In the golden age of bodybuilding, legends were born and one name that rings through bodybuilding history is Tom Platz. Known for his insane legs, Tom Platz was the prime example of dedication, unmatched perspicacity, and grit.
In this article, we go over the exact Tom Platz leg workout that carved out those legendary legs, but with a fair warning: unless you’re on a bodybuilder’s diet, supervision, and yes, potentially steroids, this routine might just be too intense.
The Tom Platz Leg Workout
When you think of tree-trunk legs in the bodybuilding world, Tom Platz instantly pops up. But let me tell you, the Tom Platz leg workout isn’t just some routine—it’s a massive challenge. Probably the toughest leg workout of all time.
TRENDING: The Best Progressive Overload App To 10x Your Gains This Year!
Why You Probably Shouldn’t Try This
Now, hold up. Before you get all fired up, pumping that Zyzz playlist, let’s lay it out straight: Tom’s leg day? Not for the faint-hearted. That guy was a beast, both in mentality and, perhaps, with a little help from the pharmaceutical world. So, unless you’re feeling crazily adventurous (or maybe just plain crazy), take a seat and read on for the spectacle that is the Tom Platz leg workout.
Complete Tom Platz Bodybuilding Leg Workout
Alright, bro. Buckle up. Whether you’re genuinely considering this or just curious about what it takes to get Platz-esque pillars, here’s the run-down:
Back Squat:
8-12 sets x 5-20 reps. No, that’s not a typo. Platz pushed the envelope like no one else. Imagine squatting heavy for up to 20 reps? If that’s not maniacal intensity, I don’t know what is.
Hack Squats:
5 sets x 10-15 reps. Another killer. And with Platz’s dedication? You bet he wasn’t just doing it—he was owning it.
Leg Extensions:
5-8 sets x 10-15 reps. Sure, it sounds ‘standard’. But this is the Platz routine we’re talking about. He wasn’t just extending those legs; he was sculpting gods.
Leg Curl:
6-10 sets x 10-15 reps. Because why should quads have all the fun? Hamstrings got the royal treatment too.
Standing Calf Raise & Seated Calf Raise:
3-4 sets x 10-15 reps each. The calves, man. Platz made sure even the often neglected calves got some hardcore love.
Now, if you’re actually going to do this, don’t forget the basics. Hydrate like you’ve never hydrated before. Those bros chugging water all day in the gym? They’re on to something. Water’s basically muscle fuel. Guzzle it, love it, become one with it.
Who Was Tom Platz?
Straight outta Michigan, Tom “The Golden Eagle” Platz was the rockstar of the bodybuilding scene in the ’70s and ’80s. Born in 1955, this dude wasn’t just about having legs that looked like they could crush watermelons (which, let’s face it, they probably could). No, Platz was an animal in the gym. Watch one of his workout vids, and you’ll see a guy who’s not just lifting—he’s pouring his soul into every rep. It’s gritty, raw, and man, does it make you wanna scream, “I wanna get jacked like THAT!”
Beyond being the undisputed king of quads, Platz was sharp too. The guy had brains just as big as his muscles, with a degree in Physiology and Nutrition. Plus, he wasn’t just about flexing on stage. The man took to acting, was a damn good motivational speaker, and was the go-to mentor for budding bodybuilders.
Let’s talk accolades. Ever heard of the Mr. Olympia?
While Platz never clinched the title, his 1981 appearance was straight-up legendary. Those legs? They weren’t just big; they were a freakin’ masterpiece, considered by many as the best the sport has ever seen. And even though he only grabbed third place that year, anyone with eyes could see those legs deserved their own seperate trophy.
Here’s the deal about Platz’s philosophy: He was all about the intensity and volume. Forget just moving weights—Platz was about feeling every ounce of it. Controlled reps, going deep, and having that mind-to-muscle connection that’s tighter than your favorite pair of jeans after leg day.
Bottom line? Tom Platz was more than just a bodybuilder. He was a force of nature, a true pioneer, and the ultimate benchmark for anyone crazy enough to think they have killer quads. Every time you hit a squat, think of Platz. Because if that doesn’t push you to go harder, I don’t know what will.
Tom Platz Leg Day Quotes
If you fully believe you will be successful and can visualize yourself being successful, you will succeed.
Now the only place to go from failure is to win. You have to achieve failure. You have to take it that far. Nobody wants to go that far
I don’t believe in luck. Luck comes to men of action.
When you promise yourself something, make a commitment, you can’t give up. Because, when you’re in the gym, you have to fulfill the promise you made to yourself. The people who can self motivate - in any field - are usually the ones who win. Regardless of talent.
Some people like to live without too much risk. They’re satisfied leading a safe existence. This attitude of caution infiltrates into their goals. Every successful athlete - or businessperson - enjoys taking calculated risks. You have to. Especially in the gym when you’re squatting 500 for reps and you can’t get one more but grunt out ten. Your nose starts bleeding, you fall into the rack and that’s set one.
Everyone has the ability to accomplish unique feats, everyone. You choose this. Become someone great in one other life. Forget about failing too many. Who cares? Doesn’t matter when you start or finish, just start, no deviations, no excuses.
After being taught sets and reps and working at it for a length of time you can’t paint by numbers anymore. It must come from within. Any artist has an emotional contact with their work. A true bodybuilder doesn’t just build muscle he creates muscle. You can’t be a robot.
The psychological tools I’ve gained from bodybuilding will never atrophy.
Bodybuilding has been my life; if it weren’t for bodybuilding, I don’t know what I’d be doing. I look at bodybuilding as who I am.
Tom Platz Leg Workout Conclusion
If you decide to take on the Tom Platz leg workout challenge is like taking on Everest. It’s monumental, challenging, and not without risks. But, for those who dare, the rewards (and the DOMS) are legendary.
TRENDING: The Best Progressive Overload App To 10x Your Gains This Year!
Whether you’re pulling inspiration or just gawking in awe, Tom’s legacy stands as a testament to what’s possible with unyielding dedication, grit, and, yeah, maybe a touch of craziness.
FAQs
How much would Tom Platz squat?
Word on the street? Platz squatted 500 pounds for reps. Crazy, right?
How do you do Tom Platz squats?
Go deep, feel every rep, and if you can, scream out your soul. Platz was all about depth, control, and unleashing raw passion.
Is squatting 225 respectable?
Squatting 225 is decent. Regular gym bros bench it for reps, so while it’s not bad, it’s not respectable.
How rare is a 405-pound squat?
A 405 lb squat is rare enough to turn heads in most gyms. It’s a weight that shows both strength and dedication.