How Much Can Hulk Hogan Bench Press & Other Information on His Workout Routine

Hulk Hogan, born Terry Gene Bollea, is rumored to have been able to bench press 550 pounds during his prime. The average man who weighs around 175 pounds can bench press 135 pounds.

Hogan was an average little boy, playing little league along with his classmates, but when he was 16, he found a new love: professional wrestling. Hogan’s favorite wrestler of the time was Dusty Rhodes, better known as “The American Dream.”

During high school, Hogan attended many wrestling matches, where he learned about and decided to follow wrestling legend Superstar Billy Graham.

After high school, Hogan briefly attended the University of Florida, finally dropping out to spend more time in the gym. He was discovered by pro wrestling legacy Mike Graham, son of famed wrestler and former president of the National Wrestling Alliance, Eddie Graham.

In 1976, Mike Graham introduced Hogan to Hiro Matsuda, one of wrestling’s top physical trainers. Hogan was reported to have said that during their first workout together, Matsuda teased him about his desire to be a professional wrestler, and then intentionally broke Hogan’s leg.

Working Out

Hulk Hogan is best known for his “24 inch pythons” (massive biceps) and his muscular chest and torso. And, while many body builders shoot for the same look, experts say that the look is the only real benefit to building so much muscle without adding toning exercises into your routine.

If you are interested in the “Hogan” look, you’ll want to focus primarily on strength training, including lifting.

Bodybuilders like Hogan work hard to increase their one rep max, or 1RM, as this helps to increase targeted muscle groups. Using primarily low rep, high intensity (and weight) lifting workouts would be the most effective way to build bulky muscles like Hogan’s.

In general, the higher your one rep max, the bigger your muscles will appear. In fact, in many bodybuilding circles, the one rep max is considered a valid and accepted indicator of strength.

Things to Consider

Before starting any new exercise program, be sure to get medical clearance from your doctor. Remember to stay hydrated during your workouts. Pain is not an indicator of success, it’s an indicator that you need to slow down—so if you are in pain, take a day off.