Bodybuilding great Dexter Jackson‘s training intensity was unmatched in his days as an active competitor. Navigating retirement in April 2024, he still pushes his body to extremes with heavy weights. 

“The Blade” brought full muscle bellies, shredded conditioning, and a physique that had zero weaknesses during his long-lasting bodybuilding career. His biggest achievement in the sport came in 2008 after he dethroned four-time Olympia champion Jay Cutler. With wins over names like Phil Heath, Dennis Wolf, and Kai Greene, Jackson was a proven and incredibly consistent talent in the IFBB Pro League‘s jam-packed Men’s Open class.

Jackson has the accolades to back up his training methods. He’s the only Men’s Open talent to pick up gold at the Mr. Olympia and Masters Olympia. He also pulled off a record five Arnold Classic titles (2005, 2006, 2008, 2013, 2015), more than any other Open competitor.

While most bodybuilding Pros are slowing down and lightening up the weight at 55 years old, that’s not the case for Jackson. He lives for hardcore training sessions and recently walked his fanbase through how he’s been approaching arms and shoulder workouts since stepping away from the stage.