Arnold Schwarzenegger's Success and Achievements in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: May 9, 2026

A closer look at the biggest achievements of Arnold Schwarzenegger. Awards, milestones, and records that define success.

Arnold Schwarzenegger is an Austrian-American icon known for his achievements in bodybuilding, acting, and politics. Rising to prominence as a professional bodybuilder, he won multiple Mr. Universe and Mr. Olympia titles. He transitioned to acting, becoming a major action film star in movies like "Terminator" and "Predator." Schwarzenegger then entered politics, serving as the 38th Governor of California from 2003 to 2011. His career showcases a unique blend of physical prowess, entertainment success, and political influence.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

1964: Winning Weightlifting Contests

In 1964, Arnold Schwarzenegger won two weightlifting contests.

1965: Served in Austrian Army and Won Junior Mr. Europe

In 1965, Arnold Schwarzenegger served in the Austrian Army and won the Junior Mr. Europe contest, even going AWOL during basic training to compete.

1965: Winning Junior Mr. Europe Contest

In 1965, Arnold Schwarzenegger won the Junior Mr. Europe contest.

1965: Winning Weightlifting Contests

In 1965, Arnold Schwarzenegger won two weightlifting contests.

1966: Winning Powerlifting Contests

In 1966, Arnold Schwarzenegger won two powerlifting contests.

1967: Won Mr. Universe Title

In 1967, Arnold Schwarzenegger won the Mr. Universe title for the first time, becoming the youngest winner at age 20.

1967: Winning the Munich Stone-Lifting Contest

In 1967, Arnold Schwarzenegger won the Munich stone-lifting contest by lifting a 508 German pound stone between his legs while standing on footrests.

1968: Won Mr. Universe Title Again

In 1968, Arnold Schwarzenegger returned to London and won his next Mr. Universe title.

1968: Winning Powerlifting Contests

In 1968, Arnold Schwarzenegger won two powerlifting contests.

1970: Winning Mr. Olympia

In 1970, Arnold Schwarzenegger won the Mr. Olympia competition, becoming the youngest ever Mr. Olympia at age 23.

1971: Winning Streak

In 1971, Arnold Schwarzenegger continued his winning streak in bodybuilding competitions.

1974: Winning Streak

In 1974, Arnold Schwarzenegger continued his winning streak in bodybuilding competitions.

1975: Winning 1975 Mr. Olympia and Retirement

In 1975, Arnold Schwarzenegger won the Mr. Olympia competition for the sixth consecutive time after being persuaded by filmmakers to compete again, which was documented in 'Pumping Iron'. Following the contest, Schwarzenegger announced his retirement from professional bodybuilding.

1976: Role in Stay Hungry and Golden Globe Win

In 1976, Arnold Schwarzenegger had a significant role in the film "Stay Hungry", for which he won the Golden Globe Award for New Star of the Year – Actor.

1993: Named International Star of the Decade and Release of Last Action Hero

In 1993, Arnold Schwarzenegger was named the "International Star of the Decade" by the National Association of Theatre Owners. His film "Last Action Hero" was released but underperformed at the box office.

2004: Saved a drowning man

In 2004, Arnold Schwarzenegger saved a drowning man in Hawaii by swimming out and bringing him back to shore.

November 7, 2006: Won re-election

On November 7, 2006, Arnold Schwarzenegger won re-election as Governor of California, defeating Democrat Phil Angelides with 56.0% of the vote.

2006: California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006

In 2006, Arnold Schwarzenegger was able to win the European Voice campaigner of the year award for taking action against climate change with the California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 and plans to introduce an emissions trading scheme with other US states and possibly with the EU.

2006: Re-elected as Governor of California

In 2006, Arnold Schwarzenegger was re-elected in the gubernatorial election with an increased vote share of 55.9 percent to serve a full term as Governor of California.