Arnold 6 Rules to Success (and What They Teach Future Personal Trainers)

Arnold Schwarzenegger’s success story has inspired millions – from bodybuilding to film, politics, and business. His six rules to success have stood the test of time, offering lessons that apply far beyond the gym.

I’m a big fan of Arnie. He’s a great motivational speaker and inspires millions of people. Here’s his six rules to success. I live by them, how about you?

For NHFA students and graduates, these principles can guide how to approach studies, career development, and the clients trained. Let’s look at what each rule means for personal trainers in today’s fitness industry.

1. Trust Yourself

“Trust yourself, no matter how or what anyone else thinks.”

Arnold often reminds us that success begins with self-belief. As he says, “You have to dig deep down and ask yourself, who do you want to be?”

For personal trainers, this means understanding why you chose this career and what kind of professional you want to become. Whether your goal is to run your own studio, work with athletes, or coach general clients, trusting your vision is the foundation of your journey.

2. Break the Rules (Not the Law)

“Break the rules. We have so many rules in life about everything. I say break the rules. Not the law, but break the rules. It is imposslbe to be a maverick or a true original if you’re too well behaved and not want to break the rules. You have to think outside the box.”

Innovation thrives when you think differently. In the fitness industry, breaking the “rules” might mean exploring new training methods, developing online coaching systems, or finding creative ways to connect with clients.

As long as you remain ethical, safe, and compliant with industry standards, stepping outside traditional paths can set you apart as a trainer who leads rather than follows.

3. Don’t Be Afraid to Fail

“Don’t be afraid to fail. Anything I’ve ever attempted I was always willing to fail. You can’t always win but don’t be afraid of making decisions, you can’t be paralyzed that fear, or failure, or you will never push yourself. You keep pushing because you believe in yourself and in your vision. And you know that it’s the right thing to do. Success will come. So don’t be afraid to fail”

Fear of failure can stop progress before it starts. Every great coach or athlete has experienced setbacks – they’re part of learning.

For trainers, this might mean experimenting with a new program, running your first bootcamp, or launching a small business. Not everything will work perfectly, but each attempt brings valuable experience. Growth comes from persistence, not perfection.

4. Ignore the Naysayers

“Don’t listen to the naysayers. I mean how many times have you hear that: you can’t do this, you can’t do that, it has never been done before. I love it when someone says that no one has ever done this before, because then that means that I’m the first one that has done it. So pay no attention to the people that say that it can’t be done.”

When Arnold first pursued bodybuilding, many told him it couldn’t be done. He used that doubt as motivation.

In the same way, fitness professionals often face criticism or skepticism when starting out – especially when changing careers or launching their own services. Keep your focus on what drives you. Surround yourself with people who support your goals and share your enthusiasm for helping others.

5. Work Your Butt Off

“The most important rule of all: work your butt off. I always believed in leaving no stone unturned. Muhammad Ali, one of my great heroes, had a great line in the 70s when he was asked: how many sit-ups do you do? He said: I don’t count my sit-ups, I only start counting when it starts hurting, when I feel pain. That’s when I start counting, because that’s when it really counts. That’s what makes you a champion. That’s the way it is with everything. No Pain, No Gain…”

Arnold’s fifth rule ends on the most important note: “You can’t climb the ladder of success with your hands in your pockets.”

In fitness, that means studying consistently, showing up for clients, and pushing through the challenges that come with running sessions, programs, or your own business. Hard work is what separates those who talk about success from those who achieve it.

6. Give Something Back

“A very important rule, it’s about giving back. Whatever path you take in your lives, must always find time to give something back. Something back to your community, give something back to your state or to your country. Let me tell you something; reaching out people and helping people will bring you more satisfaction to anything else you have ever done.”

Arnold’s final rule is about contribution – giving back to your community and the people who helped you along the way.

For personal trainers, that could mean mentoring new students, volunteering at community health events, or sharing knowledge to inspire others. Success becomes meaningful when it helps others succeed too.

Final Thoughts

Arnold’s six rules aren’t just about fame or achievement; they’re a reminder that success in fitness; and in life in general, comes from focus, resilience, and service.

Applying them in the fitness business takes strategy. Learn how to structure your business for success as mentioned in my guide on How to Become a Six-Figure Personal Trainer.

Whether you’re studying for your Certificate IV in Fitness or building your own client base, these timeless lessons still apply. For trainers ready to take the next step and turn their passion into a sustainable business, NHFA’s Business Mentorship Program offers guidance for personal trainers on leadership, client management, and long-term career growth.