Here’s how to bulk up everyone’s favorite show-off muscles.

‹‹ Problem ››
I see old pictures of Arnold Schwarzenegger and love the look of his arms. But no matter what I do, my guns don’t explode with muscle like his did.

‹‹ Solution ››
First and foremost, genetics play a crucial rule in muscle size and shape for any body part. Every pro bodybuilder’s arm workout is different. What worked for Arnold won’t necessarily work for you.

Still, there are basic principles that apply to everyone. Here are some key tips for improving your arm program.

1) Be patient. It takes years of dedication and discipline to build arms like Arnold’s.

2) Change things up. It’s important to use a variety of exercises and equipment, including free weights, barbells, dumbbells, cables and machines.

3) Don’t overtrain your arms. There is a tendency for guys wanting to build bigger arms to train too much. Set your schedule (set, reps and weight) and follow it. Don’t feel that you always need a few extra sets, or that you have to totally blow out your arms to get results.

4) Use a weight you can handle. When training arms, it is important to have good form. If you can’t control the movement by flexing or contracting and then stretching the muscles fully, then you’re using too much weight for the exercise.

5) Eat right and rest. Meet your dietary requirements consistently (protein, carbs, fats and appropriate calories) and get plenty of rest.