Pumping Iron (1977)

Kernel Score: 80% · 515 ratings · Rated PG

Genres: Documentary

Released: 1977-01-18

Runtime: 86 minutes

Where to watch Pumping Iron

US availability, updated 2026-10-23.

Overview

Amateur and professional bodybuilders prepare for the 1975 Mr. Olympia and Mr. Universe contests as five-time champion Arnold Schwarzenegger defends his Mr. Olympia title against Serge Nubret and the shy young Lou Ferrigno.

Pumping Iron parents' guide: ages 8+

Parents need to know that Pumping Iron is a PG documentary following bodybuilders preparing for major competitions.

Fresh Kernels AI-assessed from the official PG rating, publicly documented content. A guide for families, not an official rating.

Movies like Pumping Iron

If you liked Pumping Iron, these are the movies we'd watch next.

Director

Robert Fiore

Cast

  • Arnold Schwarzenegger as Self
  • Lou Ferrigno as Self
  • Mike Katz as Self
  • Serge Nubret as Self
  • Franco Columbu as Self
  • Ed Corney as Self
  • Ken Waller as Self
  • Robbie Robinson as Self
  • Marianne Claire as Self
  • Roger Callard as Self

Pumping Iron FAQ

Is Pumping Iron good?

Pumping Iron has an 80% Kernel Score on Fresh Kernels from 515 audience ratings.

Where can I watch Pumping Iron?

In the US you can watch it free with ads on Kanopy, Hoopla, The Roku Channel, Fandango at Home and YouTube Free and rent it from Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play and YouTube.

Is Pumping Iron OK for kids?

Pumping Iron is rated PG. Fresh Kernels suggests ages 8+. Parents need to know that Pumping Iron is a PG documentary following bodybuilders preparing for major competitions.

What movies are like Pumping Iron?

If you liked Pumping Iron, try Making Squid Game: The Challenge, Money Heist: The Phenomenon, Black Adam: Saviour or Destroyer? and The Pixar Story.