Getbig Bodybuilding, Figure and Fitness Forums
Getbig Bodybuilding Boards => History - Stories - and Memories => Topic started by: Robert Zuver on October 30, 2012, 01:08:58 PM
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Zuver's Saga of Bodybuilding
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Zuver's Saga of Bodybuilding
There is a story that has never been told about Zuver's
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Now you're talking!!
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I think I'm gonna need to go buy me some popcorn for this thread.
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I think I'm gonna need to go buy me some popcorn for this thread.
Nice to hear from you POTA old friend.
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Now you're talking!!
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That's what it looked like when it was Finished. It was on the wall above Zuver's Equipment Showroom.
Story to come soon.
RZ
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That's what it looked like when it was Finished. It was on the wall above Zuver's Equipment Showroom.
Story to come soon.
RZ
This massive painting was 52 1/2ft long by 7ft tall. It has 16 of the greatest Bodybuilders of all time. It took almost three years to compleat. The players are life size. It was painted by a master velvet painter by the name of Eric Askew. Ill list the names on another post later. It's starts with the great Eugene Sandow 1893 and ends with the great Frank Zane 1980. These were the guys that stood out to Bob Zuver. They might not be the choice of everyone but to pop they were the wright choice. More later.
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This massive painting was 52 1/2ft long by 7ft tall. It has 16 of the greatest Bodybuilders of all time. It took almost three years to compleat. The players are life size. It was painted by a master velvet painter by the name of Eric Askew. Ill list the names on another post later. It's starts with the great Eugene Sandow 1893 and ends with the great Frank Zane 1980. These were the guys that stood out to Bob Zuver. They might not be the choice of everyone but to pop they were the wright choice. More later.
Nice.
I honestly can't tell from the picture, but it looks like maybe Franco towards the right - two over from Arnold?
In thinking of the other guys from that era I would have included:
Reg Park
Jim Park
Grimmek
Scott
Draper
Reeves
Pearl
Billy March
I'm interested to see how many - if any - of my choices turn out to coincide with your Dad's.
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that's bodybuildings equivallant to the sistine chapel. inspired by michaeangelo. waiting to hear more from a true insider.
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Nice.
I honestly can't tell from the picture, but it looks like maybe Franco towards the right - two over from Arnold?
In thinking of the other guys from that era I would have included:
Reg Park
Jim Park
Grimmek
Scott
Draper
Reeves
Pearl
Billy March
I'm interested to see how many - if any - of my choices turn out to coincide with your Dad's.
Well here is the list of the Greats that pop respected in the day. You had a few of his choices also.
RZ
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that's bodybuildings equivallant to the sistine chapel. inspired by michaeangelo. waiting to hear more from a true insider.
It was awsome to see in person. I still have this painting in storage. It's still in Presteen Condishen. It was painted on one sheet of black velvet. It's 7ft tall x 53ft long. Someday I hope to have it placed in a museum
Somewhere so that the muscle world can come and view it for themselves. That's what pop wanted to see happen with it. Just need somewhere with a 60 foot wall. Ill send a few cut up pic's later.
RZ
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It was awsome to see in person. I still have this painting in storage. It's still in Presteen Condishen. It was painted on one sheet of black velvet. It's 7ft tall x 53ft long. Someday I hope to have it placed in a museum
Somewhere so that the muscle world can come and view it for themselves. That's what pop wanted to see happen with it. Just need somewhere with a 60 foot wall. Ill send a few cut up pic's later.
RZ
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Well here is the list of the Greats that pop respected in the day. You had a few of his choices also.
RZ
There were two more that weren't part of this main painting. See if you can guess who they were.
If you get it right ill tell you that you did and send you a set of Zuver's Hall of Fame Window Stickers from the original Gym. The real deal.
RZ
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There were two more that weren't part of this main painting. See if you can guess who they were.
If you get it right ill tell you that you did and send you a set of Zuver's Hall of Fame Window Stickers from the original Gym. The real deal.
RZ
Here is what you'll get for guessing right.
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Great thread...maybe this forum will start to get a little action again!
Robert, Did Charles Atlas ever train at Zuvers? I know he was into fitness and exercise all the way until his passing.
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Great thread...maybe this forum will start to get a little action again!
Robert, Did Charles Atlas ever train at Zuvers? I know he was into fitness and exercise all the way until his passing.
I was told he did visit and was egged on by my dad to try a few of our odd lifts from the back stage. Perhaps the water Berrel, or the one finger lift. Or my dads favorite The Big 500lb one handed Blob.
RZ
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Great thread...maybe this forum will start to get a little action again!
Robert, Did Charles Atlas ever train at Zuvers? I know he was into fitness and exercise all the way until his passing.
Here's somthing a friend of mine did. This is a actual casting of Richard's right hand on display at The Stark Center In Astin Texas. Richard has great hand straight. Have any of you done this???
RZ
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There were two more that weren't part of this main painting. See if you can guess who they were.
If you get it right ill tell you that you did and send you a set of Zuver's Hall of Fame Window Stickers from the original Gym. The real deal.
RZ
guy on right i would guess was steve reeves but he's already on there possibly rick wayne?
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guy on right i would guess was steve reeves but he's already on there possibly rick wayne?
on second thought bob paris.
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on second thought bob paris.
bob paris and frank richard.... final answer....????
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bob paris and frank richard.... final answer....????
Nope
Keep trying.
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This massive painting was 52 1/2ft long by 7ft tall. It has 16 of the greatest Bodybuilders of all time. It took almost three years to compleat. The players are life size. It was painted by a master velvet painter by the name of Eric Askew. Ill list the names on another post later. It's starts with the great Eugene Sandow 1893 and ends with the great Frank Zane 1980. These were the guys that stood out to Bob Zuver. They might not be the choice of everyone but to pop they were the wright choice. More later.
That name sounds very familiar. Was Eric also the artist behind the famous Zuver's Plates design?
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It was awsome to see in person. I still have this painting in storage. It's still in Presteen Condishen. It was painted on one sheet of black velvet. It's 7ft tall x 53ft long. Someday I hope to have it placed in a museum
Somewhere so that the muscle world can come and view it for themselves. That's what pop wanted to see happen with it. Just need somewhere with a 60 foot wall. Ill send a few cut up pic's later.
RZ
I really hope this happens. This thing is epic. I'd definitely make a trip to see it in a museum.
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That name sounds very familiar. Was Eric also the artist behind the famous Zuver's Plates design?
Very good.
Eric Askew and Dad worked on the design of the Zuver's Hall of Fame Muscle Plates together. First a clay model then a aluminum mold, then the foundry in Bell Ca. I still have the original Aluminum mold used to cast the big plates.
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Very good.
Eric Askew and Dad worked on the design of the Zuver's Hall of Fame Muscle Plates together. First a clay model then a aluminum mold, then the foundry in Bell Ca. I still have the original Aluminum mold used to cast the big plates.
The iron man was a hit amoung all the lifters in the biz from the start.
If pop could only see what they have become now. This plate was re painted by me to the way I did them back in the day they first came from the foundry.
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The iron man was a hit amoung all the lifters in the biz from the start.
If pop could only see what they have become now.
I still have a few around in my collection. These havnt been cleaned up yet. One day soon. You guys will see a compleat set finished.
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Great thread...enjoying it immensly...
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Great thread...enjoying it immensly...
Thanks Donny
Hope more readers will take note. Ill be posting a lot more stories down the road if enough people are interested. I've been posting Zuver stories on Dave and Laree Draper's site for awhile now. You might like to check them out if you haven't allready. I have a new one coming up this week or next on there with lots of pictures .
Enjoy
RZ
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Looking forward for the stories rob
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Looking forward for the stories rob
Thanks MB
Ill be doing an Original WSM write up for you guys soon about the very first WSM Contest back in 1977.
With lots of never before seen photos. I think you'll enjoy it. This is just a sample pic.
RZ
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Thanks Donny
Hope more readers will take note. Ill be posting a lot more stories down the road if enough people are interested. I've been posting Zuver stories on Dave and Laree Draper's site for awhile now. You might like to check them out if you haven't allready. I have a new one coming up this week or next on there with lots of pictures .
Enjoy
RZ
Yeah i am on Dave's site but i must admit i am never on there, too much time here...lol. There are people on here who like the old school Bodybuilders and itīs great to read some stories. Stick around Getbig grows on you... ;D
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Yeah i am on Dave's site but i must admit i am never on there, too much time here...lol. There are people on here who like the old school Bodybuilders and itīs great to read some stories. Stick around Getbig grows on you... ;D
I try to share with all. Getbig is a fun place to post the past. I'm just telling the history of Zuver's from the past. I try to tell stories that haven't been told before. Old school still works today. There's room for both old and new. I'm glad to be a part of the Getbig BB family.
Thanks
RZ
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Yeah i am on Dave's site but i must admit i am never on there, too much time here...lol. There are people on here who like the old school Bodybuilders and itīs great to read some stories. Stick around Getbig grows on you... ;D
This is a picture of Eric Askew the artist that painted Zuver's Saga Of Bodybuilding. He is in his 90s now and still staying active.
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bob paris and frank richard.... final answer....????
Here is a hint to who the two guys were in the extra paintings.
One was known to all for many years. Even appeared on tv over and over agin.
Who know's there history?
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The iron man was a hit amoung all the lifters in the biz from the start.
If pop could only see what they have become now. This plate was re painted by me to the way I did them back in the day they first came from the foundry.
Robert, those are gorgeous.
As a display piece, I like the blue & chrome ones that funk posted on the big board, but I would have loved to train with the black & gold edition!
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This is a picture of Eric Askew the artist that painted Zuver's Saga Of Bodybuilding. He is in his 90s now and still staying active.
Was Eric a player in the iron-game?
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Here is a hint to who the two guys were in the extra paintings.
One was known to all for many years. Even appeared on tv over and over agin.
Who know's there history?
jack lalanne? never woulda of guessed it.
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Robert, those are gorgeous.
As a display piece, I like the blue & chrome ones that funk posted on the big board, but I would have loved to train with the black & gold edition!
Haven't seen the blue & chrome ones you spoke of that funk posted. Would like to though if you could show me where they are posted.
Thanks
RZ
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jack lalanne? never woulda of guessed it.
jack lalanne and jack thomas two male models shot by russ warner before lalanne became famous lalanne tried to buy pics back because both guys were in their birthday suits.
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jack lalanne? never woulda of guessed it.
Very good. Guess the picture gave it away.
Email me with a mailing address and ill send you a set of the Zuver window stickers.
Thanks Bob Z.
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i think i took pics off ironhistory.com they might belong to richard sorin or else somebody was selling them on e-bay, at any rate i know richard sorin has some zuver plates.two other sites to check out are ironage.us.forum and rawiron.com.
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Very good. Guess the picture gave it away.
Email me with a mailing address and ill send you a set of the Zuver window stickers.
Thanks Bob Z.
thank you. check out the aau mr america thread on here i put the whole history of contest with pics and commentary in the history thread will bump it to make it easier to find.
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jack lalanne and jack thomas two male models shot by russ warner before lalanne became famous lalanne tried to buy pics back because both guys were in their birthday suits.
Yep
Now the pictures are all over the Internet. Jack spent some time with mom and dad back a few years ago.
Him and his wife both were very nice people.
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http://www.getbig.com/boards/index.php?topic=428068.msg6148015#msg6148015
(http://www.getbig.com/boards/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=428068.0;attach=472550;image)
Maybe it's the lighting. They appear blue & chrome in the photo.
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Thanks MB
Ill be doing an Original WSM write up for you guys soon about the very first WSM Contest back in 1977.
With lots of never before seen photos. I think you'll enjoy it. This is just a sample pic.
RZ
i watched this contest on tv when it was first aired. ferrigno, mike dayton, franco c all representing the bbing community. i remember dayton winning the wrist roller event and tearing a bunch of skin off his hands.
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i watched this contest on tv when it was first aired. ferrigno, mike dayton, franco c all representing the bbing community. i remember dayton winning the wrist roller event and tearing a bunch of skin off his hands.
Yea
Mike was not about to loose to Lou. Mike, Lou, and Franco were very close on the wrist role event. Mike did rip off a lot of skin on his first try and more on the second. I think you'll like the story ill write on the rest of the show. Have about 200 photos of that contest being converted to a cd from slide's right now. Ill post some of them when I get them back from the lab. There were a lot af good strong men there in that first one. Paul Anderson was also there. Have many never seen before pic's. your in for a treat.
RZ
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http://www.getbig.com/boards/index.php?topic=428068.msg6148015#msg6148015
(http://www.getbig.com/boards/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=428068.0;attach=472550;image)
Maybe it's the lighting. They appear blue & chrome in the photo.
I want them for my Home Gym... ;D very nice plates.
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http://www.getbig.com/boards/index.php?topic=428068.msg6148015#msg6148015
(http://www.getbig.com/boards/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=428068.0;attach=472550;image)
Maybe it's the lighting. They appear blue & chrome in the photo.
Nope there black, gold and white. I panted these and I put these on eBay.
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Yea
Mike was not about to loose to Lou. Mike, Lou, and Franco were very close on the wrist role event. Mike did rip off a lot of skin on his first try and more on the second. I think you'll like the story ill write on the rest of the show. Have about 200 photos of that contest being converted to a cd from slide's right now. Ill post some of them when I get them back from the lab. There were a lot af good strong men there in that first one. Paul Anderson was also there. Have many never seen before pic's. your in for a treat.
RZ
sounds good.... ;D ;D
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Nope there black, gold and white. I panted these and I put these on eBay.
Gotcha.
Must have been the outside lighting. A blue and chrome set would look nice, if not authentic.
8)
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i think i took pics off ironhistory.com they might belong to richard sorin or else somebody was selling them on e-bay, at any rate i know richard sorin has some zuver plates.two other sites to check out are ironage.us.forum and rawiron.com.
Richard does have a few of the Zuver plates. Big rich is a strong man himself. He traines daly and does use my plates. Not bad for a man in his 60s
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Was Eric a player in the iron-game?
Big M
When Eric was young he was into weightlifting. He was a strong little shit. He worked out back east with the Weider boys but couldn't make a livening at it. So he went overseas to learn from a man they say was the best black velvet artist of all time. The man took Eric under his wing and showed him his teckneaks for the art and made Eric promised not to ever tell anyone else what he learned. Eric kept his promise Eric is still alive and well livening in southern Ca.
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thank you. check out the aau mr america thread on here i put the whole history of contest with pics and commentary in the history thread will bump it to make it easier to find.
Wow that's a great collection of pics of the old time bodybuilders. Saw one that brought back some great memories. Dennis Tinerino. Dennis worked out for a long time at the Costa Mesa Gym. I used to spot him on the bench press and we talked often. He was a hell of a guy that wanted to be a movie star but never made it to that point. He sure as hell made it to be a great Bodybuilder though. He is missed by the Zuver family.
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Wow that's a great collection of pics of the old time bodybuilders. Saw one that brought back some great memories. Dennis Tinerino. Dennis worked out for a long time at the Costa Mesa Gym. I used to spot him on the bench press and we talked often. He was a hell of a guy that wanted to be a movie star but never made it to that point. He sure as hell made it to be a great Bodybuilder though. He is missed by the Zuver family.
Got to say Funk is a great Guy here in this part of Getbig and really posts some great pictures and articles. Itīs very refreshing to see this area of Getbig full of new life.
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jack lalanne? never woulda of guessed it.
Let's hear it for the Funkster. He is in the know when it comes to history of the iron and though's who used it.
I can see that there it a lot of info available on this site and plan on spending some time here reading and sharing some of mine. Thank's Mr Funk51.
RZ
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Let's hear it for the Funkster. He is in the know when it comes to history of the iron and though's who used it.
I can see that there it a lot of info available on this site and plan on spending some time here reading and sharing some of mine. Thank's Mr Funk51.
RZ
yes Robert stay with the Getbig Brotherhood. We have lots of talent here.. ;)
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Big M
When Eric was young he was into weightlifting. He was a strong little shit. He worked out back east with the Weider boys but couldn't make a livening at it. So he went overseas to learn from a man they say was the best black velvet artist of all time. The man took Eric under his wing and showed him his teckneaks for the art and made Eric promised not to ever tell anyone else what he learned. Eric kept his promise Eric is still alive and well livening in southern Ca.
Very cool story. Is he still producing work?
Besides the mural and assisting in the design of the plates, was Eric involved with anything else at Zuver's?
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Gotcha.
Must have been the outside lighting. A blue and chrome set would look nice, if not authentic.
8)
A set of gold ones went on eBay recently for over $4200. Set a record for most ever paid per pound. The gold wasn't authentically done by Robert here, but they still sold for an insane amount.
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Very cool story. Is he still producing work?
Besides the mural and assisting in the design of the plates, was Eric involved with anything else at Zuver's?
Eric painted most of the signs in the gym. All of the signs on the odd lift stage. He also helped in the sculpting of the famous Zuvermen, logo designe for our window decals and patches. We kept him very busy for many years.
RZ
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A set of gold ones went on eBay recently for over $4200. Set a record for most ever paid per pound. The gold wasn't authentically done by Robert here, but they still sold for an insane amount.
They also were the plates seen in the poster of Shriley Patterson.
The original very first Shirly poster where she was lifting with Zuver's Muscle Plates will be on display at Brickyard Gym in Darington Pa. starting May 18 2013 Giant Zuverman will be mounted and ready for viewing around July 4th. Lil Zuverman will be there for the opening on May 18th. Ill let you know when everything is a go.
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They also were the plates seen in the poster of Shriley Patterson.
Those gold plates are now part of a large privete collection on the east coast.
Long may they shine.
RZ
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Wow that's a great collection of pics of the old time bodybuilders. Saw one that brought back some great memories. Dennis Tinerino. Dennis worked out for a long time at the Costa Mesa Gym. I used to spot him on the bench press and we talked often. He was a hell of a guy that wanted to be a movie star but never made it to that point. He sure as hell made it to be a great Bodybuilder though. He is missed by the Zuver family.
your a great asset to the history board glad you came on.
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Got to say Funk is a great Guy here in this part of Getbig and really posts some great pictures and articles. Itīs very refreshing to see this area of Getbig full of new life.
x2
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RON from the Clan Getbig give Funky his Stars...make him a star... ;D
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your a great asset to the history board glad you came on.
Thanks
Hope to tell more to though's who weren't able to be there way back when.
RZ
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Eric painted most of the signs in the gym. All of the signs on the odd lift stage. He also helped in the sculpting of the famous Zuvermen, logo designe for our window decals and patches. We kept him very busy for many years.
RZ
If you're still in contact with him, I wonder if you would be able to get from him sketches and plans he drew out for various things in the Gym.
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I was told he did visit and was egged on by my dad to try a few of our odd lifts from the back stage. Perhaps the water Berrel, or the one finger lift. Or my dads favorite The Big 500lb one handed Blob.
RZ
(http://www.getbig.com/boards/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=446095.0;attach=490322;image)
I love how the huge 1200-pound barbell center stage says "try me" on it. Has anyone other than Paul Anderson even put that much weight on their shoulders, haha.
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I love how the huge 1200-pound barbell center stage says "try me" on it. Has anyone other than Paul Anderson even put that much weight on their shoulders, haha.
I was wondering has anybody seen any of this equipment in a gym or a garage somewhere perhaps?
This was part of the equipment we manufactured in the 1970s. We sold thousands of these benches back then and I know there must be some still left out there. If anyone has any please take a picture and send it to me.
Thanks
Bob
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I love how the huge 1200-pound barbell center stage says "try me" on it. Has anyone other than Paul Anderson even put that much weight on their shoulders, haha.
mike miller from pa area but he since lost weight. he was in the film the wrestler as mickey rourke character's friend.
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mike miller from pa area but he since lost weight. he was in the film the wrestler as mickey rourke character's friend.
miller owns and operates the nazareth barbell company, actually don't know if it's still in existance.
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miller owns and operates the nazareth barbell company, actually don't know if it's still in existance.
Sounds like he would have liked pop old gym.
He could have tried this big ole lift.
RZ
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Sounds like he would have liked pop old gym.
He could have tried this big ole lift.
RZ
never saw that pic in color before i was thinking you were going to post the biggest dumbell... ;D ;D
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;D paul a
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miller owns and operates the nazareth barbell company, actually don't know if it's still in existance.
Didn't he also have a developmental contract with WWF a few years back?
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Didn't he also have a developmental contract with WWF a few years back?
yup, he was in the wxw the samoan's wrestling school in allentown they mostly wrestled at the mountainville fire co or something like that. their big event was sportsfest in allentown every year. he lost over 100 lbs and last i heard he's trying mma.
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never saw that pic in color before i was thinking you were going to post the biggest dumbell... ;D ;D
You mean this one?
Many tried to move this one. Some got it to budge. But that was rare.
RZ
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;D paul a
Dad took us to visit Paul back in 1965. I'm going to try to post a pic or two.
Sorry guys it tells me my pic files are to big.
RZ
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Dad took us to visit Paul back in 1965. I'm going to try to post a pic or two.
Sorry guys it tells me my pic files are to big.
RZ
There we go. This was at his home back in 1965. We spent the day fooling around his place. I will be posting some shots of his workout gym as soon as I get them scanned.
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There we go. This was at his home back in 1965. We spent the day fooling around his place. I will be posting some shots of his workout gym as soon as I get them scanned.
One more Of Paul with his baby girl.
That's me as a boy on his front porch.
RZ
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Sounds like he would have liked pop old gym.
He could have tried this big ole lift.
RZ
(http://www.getbig.com/boards/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=446095.0;attach=490586;image)
Never seen this in so much detail. It looks like a lot of effort and engineering went into creating it while virtually no one was probably ever able to budge it. Crazy cool.
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There we go. This was at his home back in 1965. We spent the day fooling around his place. I will be posting some shots of his workout gym as soon as I get them scanned.
(http://www.getbig.com/boards/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=446095.0;attach=490618;image)
Straight up monster. I'm guessing he broke a chair or two in his life.
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You mean this one?
Many tried to move this one. Some got it to budge. But that was rare.
RZ
(http://www.getbig.com/boards/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=446095.0;attach=490616;image)
I originally thought this was really just a display and a hollow piece of plastic bolted down. But it's a real, enormous dumbbell actually sitting on the damned rack posts. Your dad was like a mad scientist.
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(http://www.getbig.com/boards/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=446095.0;attach=490616;image)
I originally thought this was really just a display and a hollow piece of plastic bolted down. But it's a real, enormous dumbbell actually sitting on the damned rack posts. Your dad was like a mad scientist.
All the Big stuff wasn't there just for show. Many a big guy came by to try somthing they had never tried before. Most failed, but tried over and over agin. One can always hope.
RZ
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All the Big stuff wasn't there just for show. Many a big guy came by to try somthing they had never tried before. Most failed, but tried over and over agin. One can always hope.
RZ
How many can do over 300lb with one finge???
Big Jim Waters could.
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How many can do over 300lb with one finge???
Big Jim Waters could. This picture he was only doing 248lbs. Jim is still compeating in powerlifting as a pro today.
[/quote
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How many can do over 300lb with one finge???
Big Jim Waters could. This picture he was only doing 248lbs. Jim is still compeating in powerlifting as a pro today.
[/quote
Here is a piece of Zuver history. Two of the Zuver's Hall of Fame Gold Certificates that were given to though's that earned them. The year was 1966. The names I'm sure you will know. The Red Star meant they made it in two classes. The Green Star was for three. Terry Todd was a three Star guy.
RZ
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Here is a piece of Zuver history. Two of the Zuver's Hall of Fame Gold Certificates that were given to though's that earned them. The year was 1966. The names I'm sure you will know. The Red Star meant they made it in two classes. The Green Star was for three. Terry Todd was a three Star guy.
RZ
Just a few more shots of there certificates different than the first. It's hard to beleave that after all these years there are still some of these left to be seen.
PS
Sadly I don't have the third one on Terry.
RZ
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Here is a piece of Zuver history. Two of the Zuver's Hall of Fame Gold Certificates that were given to though's that earned them. The year was 1966. The names I'm sure you will know. The Red Star meant they made it in two classes. The Green Star was for three. Terry Todd was a three Star guy.
RZ
Nice shots. I remember seeing a very blurry version of Hal's plaque on Dave's site, but nothing in this kind of quality.
Who had the best curl out of the guy's who lifted there?
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Nice shots. I remember seeing a very blurry version of Hal's plaque on Dave's site, but nothing in this kind of quality.
Who had the best curl out of the guy's who lifted there?
One word " ANDERSON". Terry Todd wasn't no one to laught at also.
Here is Terry playing around with Big Joe, one of our odd lifts. How's that POTA for a one arm curl?
This is a picture no one has seen before.
Enjoy
RZ
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One word " ANDERSON". Terry Todd wasn't no one to laught at also.
Here is Terry playing around with Big Joe, one of our odd lifts. How's that POTA for a one arm curl?
This is a picture no one has seen before.
Enjoy
RZ
(http://www.getbig.com/boards/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=446095.0;attach=490749;image)
Someone on a message board (I forget which) claimed to see Paul lift quite a bit in the past and said that his arms were extremely WEAK. I remember finding that claim odd, as your dad had said he saw Paul curl the 300 pound curl bar at your gym. And now with you saying that Paul's arms were the strongest, I really have trouble believing that person.
Awesome picture of Terry. I've actually never heard of the Big Joe odd lift before. How much did that bad boy weigh?
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Someone on a message board (I forget which) claimed to see Paul lift quite a bit in the past and said that his arms were extremely WEAK. I remember finding that claim odd, as your dad had said he saw Paul curl the 300 pound curl bar at your gym. And now with you saying that Paul's arms were the strongest, I really have trouble believing that person.
Awesome picture of Terry. I've actually never heard of the Big Joe odd lift before. How much did that bad boy weigh?
You can't beleave everything you read.
Paul's arms weak??? Not likely. Any one that could one arm press 300lbs plus can curl 300lbs with two arms don't you think. True he was known for his leg and back stranght. That doesn't mean that he was weak with his arms. Here is some shots of him lifting 300lbs plus. Also a list of some of his best lifts. You be the judge.
And Big Joe that Terry was one arm curling with weighed 125lbs. Not a world record, but a nice workout in street clothes back in the day.
RZ
RZ
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You mean this one?
Many tried to move this one. Some got it to budge. But that was rare.
RZ
those are the pics. ;D
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Very good. Guess the picture gave it away.
Email me with a mailing address and ill send you a set of the Zuver window stickers.
Thanks Bob Z.
got them today robert , i put them in plastic cases to add to my collection. thanks again.
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Great thread Robert. Richard showed me all his Zuver pictures at the AOBS this year.
Great stuff!
~Dave
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got them today robert , i put them in plastic cases to add to my collection. thanks again.
Your welcome my friend. Glad you like them. They are the real deal from the late 60s through the 70s. Pop sold them at the old gym.
Thanks for makeing me feel welcome to this site.
RZ
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Great thread Robert. Richard showed me all his Zuver pictures at the AOBS this year.
Great stuff!
~Dave
Richard does get around doesn't he? I just got back from town and the photo lab where they switched 500 slides into photos on a cd for me., I havnt even seen these photos yet. There will be a lot more stories coming. Guess ill need to start a new Zuver's thread.
RZ
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Just wanted to let you know Mr. Zuver that your time and effort in contributing to this website are very much appreciated. What a blast from the past, a better time and place in my humble opinion.
Be safe and strong,
Big Pat
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Just wanted to let you know Mr. Zuver that your time and effort in contributing to this website are very much appreciated. What a blast from the past, a better time and place in my humble opinion.
Be safe and strong,
Big Pat
Thanks Big Pat.
When I started posting on this site I just wanted to see if anyone here new of Zuver's Gym. Remember it was a long time ago. For being an Old west coast gym it had a long lasting impact on the muscle world. I'm glad that my stories of the past are of intrest to so many today. I've been posting on other sites also and have received a lot of great feedback. I hope you will continue to enjoy.
Thanks
RZ
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Great thread Robert. Richard showed me all his Zuver pictures at the AOBS this year.
Great stuff!
~Dave
Oh by the way Dave, any new books in the works? Richard told me he had spoken to you about maybe a new one in the works. If you ever need any info from me feel free to email me. Keep in touch.
Thanks
RZ
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Richard does get around doesn't he? I just got back from town and the photo lab where they switched 500 slides into photos on a cd for me., I havnt even seen these photos yet. There will be a lot more stories coming. Guess ill need to start a new Zuver's thread.
RZ
Looking forward to the photos. A lot of us weren't lucky to be there and only get to experience the gym through photos and stories. Thanks a lot, Bob.
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Looking forward to the photos. A lot of us weren't lucky to be there and only get to experience the gym through photos and stories. Thanks a lot, Bob.
New things are coming soon my friend. Working on some new things for show and tell.
RZ
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New things are coming soon my friend. Working on some new things for show and tell.
RZ
Here is a great shot of Franco C. Mike D. And Big Lou F. At the very first WSM Contest 1977. This pic has never been shown before anywhere. The Big boys gave there all.
Just thought some might like seeing it. There are a lot more to come.
Enjoy
RZ
PS
Notice the Big Zuverman behind them.
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Here is a great shot of Franco C. Mike D. And Big Lou F. At the very first WSM Contest 1977. This pic has never been shown before anywhere. The Big boys gave there all.
Just thought some might like seeing it. There are a lot more to come.
Enjoy
RZ
PS
Notice the Big Zuverman behind them.
Here are the real Star's of The 1977 Worlds Strongest Man Show. Bob Zuver and his son's and the rest of the Zuver crew. Up front with Bob is his youngest son Rick the Rhino. And his other son Robert. (Me) between big Z' legs. No Wise Cracks Please.
We were the ones that built all the equipment transported it there, and set it up for the entire show. I was a lot younger then.
Rz
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Here are the real Star's of The 1977 Worlds Strongest Man Show. Bob Zuver and his son's and the rest of the Zuver crew. Up front with Bob is his youngest son Rick the Rhino. And his other son Robert. (Me) between big Z' legs. No Wise Cracks Please.
We were the ones that built all the equipment transported it there, and set it up for the entire show. I was a lot younger then.
Rz
Hey guys
Check out the latest article I did on Dave Drapers IOL Site.
It's about a recent visit I had from Richerd Sorin The Gripster.
Thanks
RZ.
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Here is a great shot of Franco C. Mike D. And Big Lou F. At the very first WSM Contest 1977. This pic has never been shown before anywhere. The Big boys gave there all.
Just thought some might like seeing it. There are a lot more to come.
Enjoy
RZ
PS
Notice the Big Zuverman behind them.
(http://www.getbig.com/boards/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=446095.0;attach=491011;image)
That's a kick ass picture. They look like they're about to explode.
Here are the real Star's of The 1977 Worlds Strongest Man Show. Bob Zuver and his son's and the rest of the Zuver crew. Up front with Bob is his youngest son Rick the Rhino. And his other son Robert. (Me) between big Z' legs. No Wise Cracks Please.
We were the ones that built all the equipment transported it there, and set it up for the entire show. I was a lot younger then.
Rz
(http://www.getbig.com/boards/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=446095.0;attach=491015;image)
I didn't know you guys toted the Big ZuverMan there. Very cool.
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WOW...great thread... ;D
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Here is a great shot of Franco C. Mike D. And Big Lou F. At the very first WSM Contest 1977. This pic has never been shown before anywhere. The Big boys gave there all.
Just thought some might like seeing it. There are a lot more to come.
Enjoy
RZ
PS
Notice the Big Zuverman behind them.
great photos keep them coming. richard sorin over on ironhistory.com recently posted pics of himself lifting the 150 lb and 200 lb zuver plates. he didn't want then used anywhere else without permission.
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great photos keep them coming. richard sorin over on ironhistory.com recently posted pics of himself lifting the 150 lb and 200 lb zuver plates. he didn't want then used anywhere else without permission.
That's ok. Richard and I both have a large amount of photos. He nor I need permission to show them.
Here is one of him at my place playing with one of my big boy plates. What's the good of haveing great photos if there not seen by interested eyes. Most people will never see or touch one of the historic Zuver Plates in person. I hope as a great collector of historic iron Richard will show the real public, the beginner, the new guy what true iron history is. The members of Ironhistory are a close net club who all ready know the history. Most are pros that have been around the game for many years. There's nothing wrong with that but the iron history game is dying because the big boys of yesterday don't want to be bothered by the newbie's of today. The younger generation's need to hear the story's from us all or Iron History will be lost forever. They don't want to have to sell there mother to get to read a website. Come on guys, tell the stories, teach the kid's down the block, don't make them beg to hear the truth by making them have special pass words or making them feel like there not welcome because there not experienced like some of us. That's what I'm trying to teach. That's why I'm spending my time on this site and on Draper's site. Some of the future strongmen of tommorow have been contacting me lately about where they can learn more, where they fit in. Guess where I tell them to go??? A good site needs to be fun. Not just a place for a bunch of old farts to flap there lips amoung themselves.
Hope some of you guys agree with me. Sorry, ill get back to posting some new pics and stories soon.
Thanks For listening.
RZ
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That's ok. Richard and I both have a large amount of photos. He nor I need permission to show them.
Here is one of him at my place playing with one of my big boy plates. What's the good of haveing great photos if there not seen by interested eyes. Most people will never see or touch one of the historic Zuver Plates in person. I hope as a great collector of historic iron Richard will show the real public, the beginner, the new guy what true iron history is. The members of Ironhistory are a close net club who all ready know the history. Most are pros that have been around the game for many years. There's nothing wrong with that but the iron history game is dying because the big boys of yesterday don't want to be bothered by the newbie's of today. The younger generation's need to hear the story's from us all or Iron History will be lost forever. They don't want to have to sell there mother to get to read a website. Come on guys, tell the stories, teach the kid's down the block, don't make them beg to hear the truth by making them have special pass words or making them feel like there not welcome because there not experienced like some of us. That's what I'm trying to teach. That's why I'm spending my time on this site and on Draper's site. Some of the future strongmen of tommorow have been contacting me lately about where they can learn more, where they fit in. Guess where I tell them to go??? A good site needs to be fun. Not just a place for a bunch of old farts to flap there lips amoung themselves.
Hope some of you guys agree with me. Sorry, ill get back to posting some new pics and stories soon.
Thanks For listening.
RZ
you are more than welcome here. we have some outstanding experts here in every field.. what makes us special is we BOND together with our knowledge....and so i can really say that in getbig we have it ALL
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That's ok. Richard and I both have a large amount of photos. He nor I need permission to show them.
Here is one of him at my place playing with one of my big boy plates. What's the good of haveing great photos if there not seen by interested eyes. Most people will never see or touch one of the historic Zuver Plates in person. I hope as a great collector of historic iron Richard will show the real public, the beginner, the new guy what true iron history is. The members of Ironhistory are a close net club who all ready know the history. Most are pros that have been around the game for many years. There's nothing wrong with that but the iron history game is dying because the big boys of yesterday don't want to be bothered by the newbie's of today. The younger generation's need to hear the story's from us all or Iron History will be lost forever. They don't want to have to sell there mother to get to read a website. Come on guys, tell the stories, teach the kid's down the block, don't make them beg to hear the truth by making them have special pass words or making them feel like there not welcome because there not experienced like some of us. That's what I'm trying to teach. That's why I'm spending my time on this site and on Draper's site. Some of the future strongmen of tommorow have been contacting me lately about where they can learn more, where they fit in. Guess where I tell them to go??? A good site needs to be fun. Not just a place for a bunch of old farts to flap there lips amoung themselves.
Hope some of you guys agree with me. Sorry, ill get back to posting some new pics and stories soon.
Thanks For listening.
RZ
Here is a few new pics from the WSM. First The Winners. Next Bob Z. testing the girl lift. Than last , Big Lou being shown how to do the refer, race. More to fallow.
RZ
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you are more than welcome here. we have some outstanding experts here in every field.. what makes us special is we BOND together with our knowledge....and so i can really say that in getbig we have it ALL
By the way Donny thanks for the welcome. You'll hear a lot more from me.
Thanks
RZ
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By the way Donny thanks for the welcome. You'll hear a lot more from me.
Thanks
RZ
we love your posts and old school ;)
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we love your posts and old school ;)
Can anyone guess who these Big Boy's Are???
They did hang out at the WSM show
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Can anyone guess who these Big Boy's Are???
They did hang out at the WSM show
All the contestants , they were.
John Cole
Franco Columbo
Mike Dayton
Lou Ferrigno
George Frenn
Ken Patera
Bruce Wilhelm
Bob Young
The Zuver's worked the first three WSM Show's
The rest is history.
RZ
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Can anyone guess who these Big Boy's Are???
They did hang out at the WSM show
guy on the right last name shaw?
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we love your posts and old school ;)
+1 , great pics and post rob
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+1 , great pics and post rob
Hay guys
35 years ago at the WSM Show 1977 we had a visit from Arnold. Here he is with me in one shot and with his training buddy. Franco. A lot of the big boys would stop by just to hang out.
Enjoy
RZ
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Hay guys
35 years ago at the WSM Show 1977 we had a visit from Arnold. Here he is with me in one shot and with his training buddy. Franco. A lot of the big boys would stop by just to hang out.
Enjoy
RZ
Just a few more never before seen shots of Paul Anderson with the contestant. Also trying out the big wrist roller for Brent.
RZ
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Just a few more never before seen shots of Paul Anderson with the contestant. Also trying out the big wrist roller for Brent.
RZ
All work and no play makes Franco A dull boy.
There was always somthing going on. It was the best show I ever worked. It was much more easy in the old days. Wonder what all the good old boys think today. Long live the good old days.
RZ
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All work and no play makes Franco A dull boy.
There was always somthing going on. It was the best show I ever worked. It was much more easy in the old days. Wonder what all the good old boys think today. Long live the good old days.
RZ
Which aspects made it easier?
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Oh by the way Dave, any new books in the works? Richard told me he had spoken to you about maybe a new one in the works. If you ever need any info from me feel free to email me. Keep in touch.
Thanks
RZ
Bob, maybe you have me confused with another Dave (Draper) ??
I own the site I recently started (you recently joined):
http://www.ironandstrength.com/
I'm a collector of old iron, a goal is to buy a couple of Zuver plates one day. (cant afford the eBay prices, kids starting college)..
Anyways, great thread !
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nice looking site..
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Bob, maybe you have me confused with another Dave (Draper) ??
I own the site I recently started (you recently joined):
http://www.ironandstrength.com/
I'm a collector of old iron, a goal is to buy a couple of Zuver plates one day. (cant afford the eBay prices, kids starting college)..
Anyways, great thread !
Sorry Dave
To many Dave's , not enough Bob's
Happy Thanksgiving
RZ
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Sorry Dave
To many Dave's , not enough Bob's
Happy Thanksgiving
RZ
Hey guys?
One of members from here has just posted a nice little write up about Zuver's plates on Dave Drapers site.
You might like to check it out. Job well done.
RZ
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Sorry Dave
To many Dave's , not enough Bob's
Happy Thanksgiving
RZ
Check them out on eBay.
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Just thought I would let you guys know someone is selling one of the nicest sets of Zuver Hall of Fame 50lb plates I've seen on eBay. Check them out.
RZ
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Great site!!!
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Great site!!!
Willie
Thanks for the intrest. After the Hollyadays ill post some stories about some of the BB's that trained at the old Costa Mesa St. Zuver's Gym. Don't know if you know who Mike Glass is but he was a pritty good Bodybuielder in his day also got his start at our gym and was our gym manager for over ten years. He now puts on some of the top BB contests around. More to come in 2013.
Well Merry Christmas and a happy New Year to all.
Robert Zuver
PS
Dennis was one of the best of the best
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Great site!!!
Hey guys
When you get time check out my short story on Drapers site. It had the Christmas spirt.
Also some cool pics.
RZ
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that's bodybuildings equivallant to the sistine chapel. inspired by michaeangelo. waiting to hear more from a true insider.
Funny thing happened this Christmas. My son and daughter in law were in a gift shop at a museum in LA when my daughter in law just happened to pick up a book and started flipping through it. The book was on LA history and as she glanced through the pages she came apon this old photo of Zuver's equipment factory in Costa Mesa. The photo was taken 1978 right after the original Hall of Fame closed down. I had never seen it before. What are the chances that one of my kids would just run across it like that. Intersting.
RZ
PS
They gave me that book for Christmas , way Cool.
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NICE...looks a great book.
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NICE...looks a great book.
It's an awsome book with a lot of great history on LA. If you ever get a chance check it out. There's like 700 pages. That's what made it special that the kids just happened to run across that one page with that picture.
RZ
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It's an awsome book with a lot of great history on LA. If you ever get a chance check it out. There's like 700 pages. That's what made it special that the kids just happened to run across that one page with that picture.
RZ
book goes for like 44 bucks on amazon.com.60 some copies still availavle.
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book goes for like 44 bucks on amazon.com.60 some copies still availavle.
For me it was the story on finding a new picture not seen on the Internet before, just out of the blue.
The book is a plus with great history on LA. Highly Recomended reading. Thanks for the Amazon info.
RZ
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;) bumped in need of more zuver gym ; pics robert. ;D ;D ;D ;D
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;) bumped in need of more zuver gym ; pics robert. ;D ;D ;D ;D
OK
Question!
How many real weight plates does any gym need to decorate there place. Does the gym you presently visit have thousands of dollars worth of iron decorating the entrence? Back in the 60s Zuvers used more weights for decorating than most gyms of that time had in there gym. Here are just a few pics of what I mean.
Yes, the Olympic bars were real.
Yes, all the plates were real.
Yes, all the equipment was real.
Yes, Bob Zuver was obsessed with his gym being a one of a kind place.
Yes, It was known as The Disneyland of the muscle world.
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MORE
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MORE
Check out the 300lbs plus door handle.
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EVEN OUR BARSTOOLS WERE 50lb ZUVER PLATES!
The third pic is all that is left of the original gym barstool today.
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MORE
Yes, that is a real, compleat Olympic set.
And yes the last picture is of the famed writer Dick Tyler doing a interview with Big Bob Zuver.
Check out the floor.
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How's that for now Mr. funk?
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Zuver's Gym
Here is a rare photo of the 19th street costa mesa Zuver's gym after the Original Hamilton Street Gym Closed.
This is the only photo of this gym I have found so far. Hope to find more of this one and the El Toro Gym to show you. Anyone out there that had visited any of our gyms and may have photos please contact me.
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How's that for now Mr. funk?
thank you robert , that's what i'm talking about.
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thank you robert , that's what i'm talking about.
More to come.
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Even the BARSTOOLS were Zuver Muscle Plates.
The last pic is one of the original stool plates. I have had it all these years.
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The Big Visitors Pass
Pop would have people that just wanted to look around carry this metal pass with them as they looked around.
Pop was always thinking.
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AT ZUVER'S GYM
EVERYONE COULD BECOME A ZUVERMAN.
AT LEAST FOR PHOTOS.
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That's funny!
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That's funny!
That's the kind of stuff that made Zuver's Famous.
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Robert,in the pics with the plates on the floor,were they set into the concrete as the floor was poured,and a question about the 2,000lb dumbell pic,what were the end bells made of,or filled with.?
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Robert,in the pics with the plates on the floor,were they set into the concrete as the floor was poured,and a question about the 2,000lb dumbell pic,what were the end bells made of,or filled with.?
Yes the plates were set in the floor as we poured the concrete. The plates were a mix of brands. Some Zuver's, some bfco, some Paramount, whatever we had laying around. Most were plates that were used in the gym before we had our own Zuver plates cast.
RZ
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Robert,in the pics with the plates on the floor,were they set into the concrete as the floor was poured,and a question about the 2,000lb dumbell pic,what were the end bells made of,or filled with.?
The Worlds Biggest Dumbbell.
This was a pretty big job building this baby. The ball's were made of steel. They were Steel Ocean Buoy's out of the bay of Long Beach Ca. We purchased them from a marine salvage yard. When finished it weighed in right at 2000lbs.
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Zuver's Official Greeter.
The official Greeter of Zuver's Hall Of Fame Gym for close to 17 Years was a 6ft Dumbbell lifting Gorilla. A little known fact was that to the Zuver family the Greeter was named George. Back then there was a TV cartoon by the name of George Of The Jungle. I'm sure there are some of you that can remember the theme song for the show. George saw and Greeted most everyone big or small that ever walked through our gates. There were two greeter gorilla's. most people didn't know that. One was at the entrance, the other stood on top of the waterfall. Wish I still had him now.
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George the Greeter
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George of the Jungle.
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George of the Jungle 2
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Thanks for the replies Robert,i just love the originality of everything that went into Zuvers gym.The zuverman thats on top of the elephant looks like it was modelled on Roger Callard.
I love the idea of using powerful animals in zuvers gym,like the rhino and the gorilla,and i`ve thought if i ever end up completing my own home gym i`d love something like this carving of a silverback gorilla to stand guard at the entrance.
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More photos of Zuver's
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More
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Today marks the three year passing of Dennis Tinerino.
May he rest in piece and may god bless his family.
RIP
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Today marks the three year passing of Dennis Tinerino.
May he rest in piece and may god bless his family.
RIP
tinnerino was a great goldenage bodybuilder, who originally had the part of hercules in new york, until weider talked them into useing arnold s instead. tinnerino ended up with a bit part in the movie. he was the only bber to win the mr america, mr universe, jr mr a, teenage mr a, and mr usa titles.
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tinnerino was a great goldenage bodybuilder, who originally had the part of hercules in new york, until weider talked them into useing arnold s instead. tinnerino ended up with a bit part in the movie. he was the only bber to win the mr america, mr universe, jr mr a, teenage mr a, and mr usa titles.
Lets not forget MR Natural Universe.
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Lets not forget MR Natural Universe.
that too ;D ;D ;D
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CAN YOU NAME THE THREE FAMOUS BODYBUILDERS SHOWN?????
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Big Bob Zuver never had to take any crap from his gym members.
They knew He Would Kick there Ass with his BIG FOOT.
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Well HISTORY OF ZUVER'S GYM LIVES ON THROUGH THE NEW BRICKYARD GYM IN PENNSYLVANIA.
IT HAD ITS SOFT OPENING YESTERDAY AND WILL HAVE ITS GRAND OPENING SATERDAY 6/29/2013
So far it has had great reviews. Rick and Tammy have done a great job trying to make there gym part old school and part new school so all could enjoy training there. Rick has put up displays of Zuver's History through out the place and has Lil Z (The Original Golden Zuverman Bust) behind the front counter for viewing. The Third Generation Zuver Big One Finger Lift is There And Ready To Try. This Unit Was Built By Me and Given to Rick to display and allow his members a chance to try a piece of Zuver Tradition. The Standing Record is 248lbs. We will see if it can be broken. If so I will Award the New Record Holder a Certificate of Achievement.
Stop by and try your Finger at it.
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Really enjoy this thread... I'd give up a body part to go back in time for a visit to Zuvers. Real iron history!
~Dave
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Really enjoy this thread... I'd give up a body part to go back in time for a visit to Zuvers. Real iron history!
~Dave
You would have been extremely welcome. If I had known that Zuvers would become as popular as it is today I would have saved a lot more things from the original gym. I'm thankful pop saved thousands of photos and that's pritty good considering that there weren't much for camaras back then. Still finding things now and then at pops house. I wish everyone could have seen it in its hay day.
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Thought I'd add a few shots you may not have seen before.
Enjoy
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And four more of the good ole days.
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I used to train at Zuver Gym back in the early 70s. Bob trained me as a powerlifter and introduced me to a lot of top strength athletes. Zuvers had a great powerlifting team. It was a great atmosphere conducive to great training. I have great memories of those days. I ended up learning from the best and launched a long powerlifting career from the foundation I got a Zuvers Gym. Bob was truly special and one of a kind.
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I used to train at Zuver Gym back in the early 70s. Bob trained me as a powerlifter and introduced me to a lot of top strength athletes. Zuvers had a great powerlifting team. It was a great atmosphere conducive to great training. I have great memories of those days. I ended up learning from the best and launched a long powerlifting career from the foundation I got a Zuvers Gym. Bob was truly special and one of a kind.
Don't suppose you have any old pictures of when you were at our Gym???
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Hi Robert,
You probably wouldn't remember me, I was just a nobody who came to you Dad's gym to get strong. I had moved to California and wanted to go to the best "strong man" gym there is, of course, Zuver's Gym. I knew Ricky, you, your dad and mom, and everyone treated me as if I was important. Even though I was a skinny kid, a "wanna be" strong man.
A few months ago, I had the opportunity to get a pair of the Zuver's 50lb. plates, they are among my prized possessions. They aren't in good shape but it doesn't matter. They bring back great memories and are very cool.
I haven't looked closely, but I don't think I have any pictures from those days. I had some but believe they got destroyed in a flood. I still see Rudy Lozano occasionally, he may have some pictures. I'll be glad to ask him.
Although I don't have much contact with him in recent years, however; I was pretty close with Tom Overholtzer for many years. We helped each other at several power meets over the years.
I only recently learned via these boards of the loss of your dad and mom. They were great people and true pioneers in strength sports. I am so glad you are working to tell today's Iron Athletes about your parent's gym and more importantly about them.
Regards,
Terry McCormick
Highest Regards
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.
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Hi Robert,
You probably wouldn't remember me, I was just a nobody who came to you Dad's gym to get strong. I had moved to California and wanted to go to the best "strong man" gym there is, of course, Zuver's Gym. I knew Ricky, you, your dad and mom, and everyone treated me as if I was important. Even though I was a skinny kid, a "wanna be" strong man.
A few months ago, I had the opportunity to get a pair of the Zuver's 50lb. plates, they are among my prized possessions. They aren't in good shape but it doesn't matter. They bring back great memories and are very cool.
I haven't looked closely, but I don't think I have any pictures from those days. I had some but believe they got destroyed in a flood. I still see Rudy Lozano occasionally, he may have some pictures. I'll be glad to ask him.
Although I don't have much contact with him in recent years, however; I was pretty close with Tom Overholtzer for many years. We helped each other at several power meets over the years.
I only recently learned via these boards of the loss of your dad and mom. They were great people and true pioneers in strength sports. I am so glad you are working to tell today's Iron Athletes about your parent's gym and more importantly about them.
Regards,
Terry McCormick
Highest Regards
I remember you Terry pull up Robert Zuver on Facebook. I've been in touch with several other guys from the old gym that told me they trained with you there also. Would love to talk with Rudy if you could hook us up.
My email is mrbsfab@gmail.com. Been looking for the rest of the Zuver Powerlifting Teem guys. Found Bill Witting, and Willie Kindred still looking for Tom, Len Ingro, and Jim Waters.send me your email address so we can talk.
Thanks
Bob
Ps
Are you in touch with David Shaw?
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Hi Robert,
You probably wouldn't remember me, I was just a nobody who came to you Dad's gym to get strong. I had moved to California and wanted to go to the best "strong man" gym there is, of course, Zuver's Gym. I knew Ricky, you, your dad and mom, and everyone treated me as if I was important. Even though I was a skinny kid, a "wanna be" strong man.
A few months ago, I had the opportunity to get a pair of the Zuver's 50lb. plates, they are among my prized possessions. They aren't in good shape but it doesn't matter. They bring back great memories and are very cool.
I haven't looked closely, but I don't think I have any pictures from those days. I had some but believe they got destroyed in a flood. I still see Rudy Lozano occasionally, he may have some pictures. I'll be glad to ask him.
Although I don't have much contact with him in recent years, however; I was pretty close with Tom Overholtzer for many years. We helped each other at several power meets over the years.
I only recently learned via these boards of the loss of your dad and mom. They were great people and true pioneers in strength sports. I am so glad you are working to tell today's Iron Athletes about your parent's gym and more importantly about them.
Regards,
Terry McCormick
Highest Regards
Terry
Don't know if you remember Vincent from the old days at Zuver's, but you were far from a nobody with us.
My dad treated everyone as if they were the best in the world. Didn't matter if you were a skinny kid or a monster lifter, bodybuilder or super strongman. I'm not the only one that remembers who you were and how you got there. My dad spoke of you often through the years as did many others. Vincent was another young lifter that trained around the same time you did with The Zuver's Teem. He recently posted this post on my Facebook page. Just thought you might like seeing it. You would be welcome anytime to visit my page just as you were always welcome at Our Gym.
Good hearing from you.
RZ
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News Flash
After 45 years The Original 18ft Giant Zuverman is standing in front of his new home after a long trip from the West Coast. Zuverman was created by Bob Zuver, myself, and artist Eric Askew in 1969. His new home in front of Brickyard Gym in Darlington Pennsylvania is just one of many over his lifetime. He stood in front of The Historic Original Zuver's Gym from 1969 to 1978 where he was moved to Zuver's Gym Equipment Factory for display. He made several appearances as the Muscle Icon for The Original TV Worlds Strongest Man Contest. He was than moved and stood over Giants Gym in Portland OR. for many years. He now will overlook Brickyard Gym as a monument to the History of Bob Zuver and his famous Zuver's Gym. It's been a long journey but he now can call this his new home. Perhaps some day some of you Getbiggers can stop by for a visit and a photo or two of this Historic Piece of Zuver's Gym.
LONG MAY HE STAND
RZ
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Wow here is the latest on eBay.
Two sets of the famous Zuver's Hall Of Fame Muscle Plates.
Asking price new record prices.
What do you think?
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THE ZUVER'S WORLDS BIGGEST DUMBBELL.
Over the years there have been many photos of this great old attraction from The Original Zuver's Gym.
Here are just a few including some recently posted by Big Joe of Iron History.
If anybody has spotted this great piece of Zuver's History in the last few years please let me know where.
Thanks
RZ
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Two more
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Bob, has there been any interest amongst you and/or the family in (re)starting up production of the Zuver equipment line?
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Bob, has there been any interest amongst you and/or the family in (re)starting up production of the Zuver equipment line?
I've thought about it many times. Not sure I'm ready to go back in business at 61. Have a few company's asking if I would teem up with them and come out with a Classic Zuver Line to add to there's. Could be something along that line with the right offer as long as it was my design.
You might just see something next year. I'm pretty booked up till January and havn't had time to sit and discuss things with the interested party's. I am the end of the Zuver's Gym Family now. I've got to say I would love to see some of our Circle Gym Line of equipment out there agin.
I'm wondering why you asked that question. If you have any ideas on this feel free to email me.
Thanks
RZ
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The 19th street Costa Mesa Zuver's Gym and Equipment Show Room.
This is the gym after The Original Hamilton Street Gym.
Lou Ferrigno trained here often in the late afternoons.
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These are the only two pictures of the El Toro Zuver's Gym that I have found so far.
This was the final Zuver's Gym owned by the family.
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Bob, has there been any interest amongst you and/or the family in (re)starting up production of the Zuver equipment line?
This was just some of the Zuver line of super gym equipment.
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I'm wondering why you asked that question. If you have any ideas on this feel free to email me.
Thanks
RZ
I honestly have no input; the question was purely out of curiosity. It seems that a great deal of fun and passion went into the business. You obviously have many fond memories, visit them often, and are proud to discuss them with many people...I was curious if the idea of continuing has been entertained.
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How cool wouldnt it be if someone started up zuvers gym again with the same crazy (in a good way) style ypur dad have.
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How cool wouldnt it be if someone started up zuvers gym again with the same crazy (in a good way) style ypur dad have.
it would be very cool but near impossible to do in this cutthroat world we live in. times change there are very few gyms out there who care about their members like mr zuver did. i think he opened and ran his gym business as a labor of love for the game. now if someone thinks youy are making a buck they move across the street and price you out of the game. seen this many times ib my area as gyms open up to be knocked off by a chain and a still bigger chain moves in and knocks them off. :'( :'( :'(
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it would be very cool but near impossible to do in this cutthroat world we live in. times change there are very few gyms out there who care about their members like mr zuver did. i think he opened and ran his gym business as a labor of love for the game. now if someone thinks youy are making a buck they move across the street and price you out of the game. seen this many times ib my area as gyms open up to be knocked off by a chain and a still bigger chain moves in and knocks them off. :'( :'( :'(
Sadly it isn't the chains that keep it from happening.
It's the people themselves. There just aren't enough people that want a real hardcore gym. Sadly unless your in a city that has a lot of Pro Bodybuilders or Powerlifters there aren't enough to pay the bills. Remember back in the Zuver's Gym Days people didn't mind sweating or getting a little dirty. They had fun working out and pushing each other hard to reach there goals. Most people today don't have that drive and there only goal is to stay in minnium shape. There not interested in the sport, just staying fit. I could build a new Zuver's Gym in a heartbeat with all the great things and feelings it once had. And yes the greats of today would visit now and then and there would be many articles written only now you would be reading them on the Internet in stead of newspapers and magizenes. Sadly most locales would take one look and call me a dumbass and laugh there way over to there local Fitness Center where they could stand around on a long row of treadmills watching TV. The personnel touch is gone now and most of the younger generation don't have time to work out three to four days a week like we did back then. The old gyms were our social clubs back then. Guys would come in our gym after work around 5pm and not go home till after closeing around 11pm. many nights after closeing pop would talk with the guys till early morning. Pop had that personal touch that doesn't exsest today. A lot of good friends were made that way that are still my friends today. Sadly a lot are gone now. Beleave me, I've thought of building a new Zuver's Gym. It would be something very special as you can only imagine. But for now I'm trying to incorporate a little Zuver's in some of the newer gyms of the future.
A little old, A little new, And A lot Of Fun.
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Sadly it isn't the chains that keep it from happening.
It's the people themselves. There just aren't enough people that want a real hardcore gym. Sadly unless your in a city that has a lot of Pro Bodybuilders or Powerlifters there aren't enough to pay the bills. Remember back in the Zuver's Gym Days people didn't mind sweating or getting a little dirty. They had fun working out and pushing each other hard to reach there goals. Most people today don't have that drive and there only goal is to stay in minnium shape. There not interested in the sport, just staying fit. I could build a new Zuver's Gym in a heartbeat with all the great things and feelings it once had. And yes the greats of today would visit now and then and there would be many articles written only now you would be reading them on the Internet in stead of newspapers and magizenes. Sadly most locales would take one look and call me a dumbass and laugh there way over to there local Fitness Center where they could stand around on a long row of treadmills watching TV. The personnel touch is gone now and most of the younger generation don't have time to work out three to four days a week like we did back then. The old gyms were our social clubs back then. Guys would come in our gym after work around 5pm and not go home till after closeing around 11pm. many nights after closeing pop would talk with the guys till early morning. Pop had that personal touch that doesn't exsest today. A lot of good friends were made that way that are still my friends today. Sadly a lot are gone now. Beleave me, I've thought of building a new Zuver's Gym. It would be something very special as you can only imagine. But for now I'm trying to incorporate a little Zuver's in some of the newer gyms of the future.
A little old, A little new, And A lot Of Fun.
Believe It Or Not
I Still Have That Ugly 1970s Shirt My Dad Was Wearing In The Pics.
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Here's what the public wants for a gym.
Sure makes a MAN want to run right out and train hard don't it ?
Lets all thank Planet Fitness Center.
Nothing like PINK to turn on a man.
Makes me want to Barf.
PS
Look how hard there training.