Arnold Schwarzenegger Helps Train Son Joseph Baena for Bodybuilding Debut

The 78-year-old action star is supporting his 28-year-old love child as he competes in his first bodybuilding competition.

Mar. 26, 2026 at 10:40pm

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Arnold Schwarzenegger has been hands-on in helping his 28-year-old son Joseph Baena train at Gold's Gym in Venice, California, as Baena prepares for his first bodybuilding competition this Saturday in Colorado. Baena, Schwarzenegger's love child, has been documenting his muscle-building transformation on social media, showing off the 18 pounds he's packed on in the last 8 weeks leading up to the event.

Why it matters

This story highlights the close relationship between Schwarzenegger and his previously estranged son, as well as Baena's decision to follow in his famous father's footsteps as a bodybuilder. It also sheds light on the challenges of competing in a high-profile natural bodybuilding event, which requires drug testing and a polygraph exam.

The details

Baena will be making his debut at the NPC Natural Colorado State Championships, which will be held at the Pinnacle Performing Arts Center in Denver. The event page states that all athletes will be drug tested and required to take a 30-minute polygraph test prior to the competition. Baena has been training intensely, packing on 18 pounds in 8 weeks, and documenting his progress on social media.

  • Baena will compete in his first bodybuilding competition this Saturday, March 25, 2026.
  • Schwarzenegger revealed that he fathered Baena in 2011 after a 'one-night stand' with his former housekeeper Mildred 'Patty' Baena.

The players

Arnold Schwarzenegger

A 78-year-old former Governor of California, Hollywood action star, and seven-time Mr. Olympia bodybuilding champion who is helping train his son Joseph Baena for his first bodybuilding competition.

Joseph Baena

Schwarzenegger's 28-year-old love child who is making his bodybuilding debut at the NPC Natural Colorado State Championships this Saturday.

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What they’re saying

“You have to shock the muscles”

— Joseph Baena

“He's an amazing father. He's a great person to look up to and he's the smartest man I know.”

— Joseph Baena

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This story highlights the close bond between Arnold Schwarzenegger and his estranged son Joseph Baena, as the legendary bodybuilder and actor supports his son's own bodybuilding aspirations. It also sheds light on the challenges of competing in a high-profile natural bodybuilding event, which requires strict drug testing and polygraph exams to ensure a level playing field.