Why is Tom Platz called the ‘Quadfather’?

Tom Platz via @tomplatz on Instagram
Tom Platz (P/C: @tomplatz on Instagram)

Bodybuilder Tom Platz, popularly referred to as the "Quadfather," is a renowned figure who gained recognition for his extraordinary quadriceps development.

Platz's leg muscles, which were unmatched during his competitive years, are still legendary in the fitness world. He became a bodybuilding icon thanks to his commitment to leg training and his unique training style.

In June, Platz shared a picture on Instagram of his current self in comparison with a 1988 picture of when he was in his prime. Despite his age of 69, fans, and people around the world, are still in awe of Platz's dedication to his incredible quadriceps.

"69th Birthday Celebration with #ClanPlatz," he captioned the post.

Tom Platz's Leg Exercise Workout

Tom Platz was well-known for his intense leg workout routine. He frequently did squats using weights that were at least 400 or 500 pounds per rep.

During a seminar with fans in Zurich in 2018, Platz revealed that he didn't like doing squats but was 'addicted' to the feeling he had afterwards.

“I didn’t like squatting that much, I didn’t like squatting at all, to tell you the truth... But I love — I’m addicted to the feeling afterward. After doing a squat workout of 400, 500 pounds for reps, and your life passes in front of your eyes and you succeed — life is great," he said.

A typical leg workout for Platz includes, but is not limited to, squats, leg presses, and lunges, with a strong focus on the perfect form and full range of motion. He was also known for his ability to push his body to the limits, often doing sets with over 20 reps and incorporating drop sets to exhaust the muscles further.

Platz's leg workouts are available in numerous forms, with his standard workout including:

  • Squats or back squats: 8 to 12 sets, 5 to 20 reps
  • Hack squats: 5 to 7 sets, 10 to 15 reps
  • Leg extension: 5 to 8 sets, 10 to 15 reps
  • Leg curls: 6 to 10 sets, 10 to 15 reps
  • Standing calf raises: 4 to 8 sets, 10 to 15 reps
  • Seated calf raises: 3 to 8 sets, 10 to 15 reps
  • Hack machine calf raises: 3 to 6 sets, 5 to 10 reps

Platz believed in training until failure, a philosophy that contributed to his legendary status in the bodubuilding world.

What do you think about Tom Platz's leg routine? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Edited by Nihal