Otto Arco (real name Otto Nowosielsky) was a Polish strongman and wrestling champion. He was born in 1881 and 22 years later he won the Austrian wrestling title, despite the fact he was only 5’2. He was considered to be the best wrestler in the world, pound for pound.
Otto Arco
Otto had the build of a classic physical culturalist which he gained through weight lifting and muscle control exercises. He even took a part in a contest in 1913 where he won the “Worlds Most Perfectly Developed Man” title.
As far as feats of strength are concerned, with just 138 pounds in bodyweight. Otto Arco was able to Clean and Jerk 280lbs and do a Turkish Get Up with a 175 pounds barbell in one hand. He was also very good at hand balancing, which he often practiced with his brother Pete.
Hand to Hand performance by Otto and Pete
It’s always great to see middle aged people taking care of their body and looking ten or more years younger, but when someone looks THIS good at 64 it leaves a lasting impression. Check out Otto Arco at 64 in the picture below, where he is still able to control his muscles effortlessly.
Otto Arco at 64
Victor Olson, one of the students of Otto Arco, performing a handstand act with a partner
Otto Arco was one of the best muscle controllers in the world. If you are interested in learning from the best in the history of old strongmen, check out his “How to Learn Muscle Control” book.