Personal Letter from Arnold

The world knows Arnold Schwarzenegger as a famous bodybuilder and a Hollywood action hero, but he is also a successful businessman, generous philanthropist and California’s 38th Governor.

As Governor, he has traveled across the country and around the world promoting California-grown products, cutting-edge technologies and the state’s diverse travel destination. Using his background as an internationally recognized athlete, Governor Schwarzenegger has made restoring health and fitness a top priority. He signed legislation making the state’s school nutrition standards the most progressive in the nation and continues to promote healthy habits by taking harmful trans fats out of California restaurants and ensuring nutritional information is available to diners.

This world-famous athlete and actor was born in Austria in 1947, and at 20 became the youngest person ever to win the Mr. Universe title. He came to America shortly after, winning an unprecedented 12 more world bodybuilding titles. Challenging both his body and mind, he earned a college degree from the University of Wisconsin and became a U.S. citizen in 1983.

Three years later he married broadcast journalist Maria Shriver. They have four children – Katherine, Christina, Patrick and Christopher.

Governor Schwarzenegger’s most gratifying accomplishments are rooted in public service. He and Maria have remained closely involved in Special Olympics, an organization founded by Maria’s mother, Eunice Kennedy Shriver. He was named Special Olympics International Weight Training Coach in 1979 and serves as a Global Ambassador.

Recognizing his passion for helping kids, in 1990 former President George Bush appointed Governor Schwarzenegger Chair of the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports, in which capacity he traveled all 50 states and recognized the overwhelming need for more after-school alternatives.

Arnold recently shared with me his thoughts on health and fitness. I couldn’t wait to share them with you below:

Dear Joe,

Thanks for taking the time to write to me about physical fitness. It’s an issue I share your passion for, and I’m always glad to hear from people who feel as strongly about it as I do.

As Governor, I’ve made it a priority to get our great state back in shape. Many Californians are at high risk for obesity and diabetes, but there’s plenty we can do to get ourselves on the right track. I recently proposed a prevention, wellness, and personal responsibility initiative as part of a comprehensive health care reform plan. The idea is to reward Californians who eat well, exercise regularly, and take preventive health actions to fight disease and illness before they start.

By setting goals for yourself and remaining dedicated to them, you can accomplish anything. And no matter what those fitness goals are, exercise and proper nutrition are crucial.

When I was competing, I’d often spend long hours in the gym, and the thing that most helped me overcome obstacles was a positive mental attitude. If you think you can do something, you can – as long as you’re willing to put in the effort.

Thanks again for writing. It takes dedication to get and stay physically fit, but the rewards last a lifetime.

Sincerely,

Arnold Schwarzenegger

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