This part of our Internet guide covers bodybuilding, which is the process of developing muscle mass and strength through weight training, nutrition, and rest. It often involves sculpting the physique for aesthetic or competitive purposes.
Bodybuilding involves the use of progressive resistance exercises to control and develop one's musculature.
The origins of bodybuilding can be traced back to the late 19th century, with Eugen Sandow often credited as the father of modern bodybuilding. His public displays of strength and physique set the stage for modern bodybuilding competitions. However, the practice of strength training dates back much further, with the ancient Greeks and Egyptians engaging in stone-lifting competitions.
The establishment of the International Federation of Bodybuilding & Fitness (IFBB) in 1946 by Joe and Ben Weider provided a formal structure for competitive bodybuilding.
The 1950s and 1960s saw the rise of iconic figures like Steve Reeves and Reg Park, who popularized the sport through films and public appearances. The Mr. Universe and Mr. Olympia contests became prestigious events, drawing competitors from around the world.
The 1970s, often considered the golden age of bodybuilding, saw the emergence of Arnold Schwarzenegger and his rise to a global icon. His victories in the Mr. Olympia contests and his role in the documentary "Pumping Iron" brought unprecedented attention to the sport. This trend continued through the 1980s and 1990s, with bodybuilders like Lee Haney and Dorian Yates dominating the competitive scene. During this period, there were also advancements in training techniques and nutrition, further enhancing the physiques of competitors.
The sport of bodybuilding continued to evolve in the 2000s as Ronnie Coleman and Jay Cutler pressed the boundaries of muscular development. The sport also saw increased commercialization, with major sponsorships and media coverage. Introducing new categories, such as Men's Physique and Classic Physique, broadened the appeal of bodybuilding, attracting a wider audience.
Competitive bodybuilding involves rigorous training, strict dieting, and meticulous contest preparation. Athletes are judged on criteria such as muscularity, symmetry, and stage presentation. Major competitions attract top athletes from around the world, showcasing the pinnacle of human physique and dedication.
Bodybuilding competitions are divided into various categories based on gender, age, and physique type. Traditional categories include Men's Open, Women's Bodybuilding, and Fitness. Newer categories like Men's Physique and Bikini have gained popularity, offering more accessible entry points for aspiring competitors.
Bodybuilding offers numerous health benefits. It promotes muscle growth, improves cardiovascular health, and enhances physical fitness. Regular resistance training can help prevent chronic diseases, improve bone density, and boost mental health by reducing stress and anxiety. However, following a balanced training program and maintaining proper nutrition is essential to achieving these benefits.
For many, bodybuilding is a recreational activity that provides a sense of accomplishment and community. Gyms and fitness centers offer a social environment where people can share their passion for fitness. Recreational bodybuilding allows people to set personal goals, track their progress, and enjoy the physical and mental benefits of regular exercise.
While bodybuilding offers numerous benefits, it also carries potential risks. Overtraining, the improper use of supplements, and the use of performance-enhancing drugs can lead to serious health issues. It is crucial for bodybuilders to prioritize their health, seek professional guidance, and avoid harmful practices.
Bodybuilding is a dynamic and evolving discipline that serves as a health regime, a recreational activity, and a competitive sport.
Topics related to bodybuilding are appropriate for this category. This is not a shopping category, however.
Recommended Resources
BarBend is the official media partner of USA Weightlifting. Based in Brooklyn, New York, BarBend is supported by a team of more than seventy experts, contributors, researchers, photographers, and athletes worldwide. Its in-house editors, creative team, and management team are responsible for the site's direction. The site features news of CrossFit, Strongman, bodybuilding, powerlifting, weightlifting, and competition results, along with reviews, nutrition, and training guides.
https://barbend.com/
BODi is a mobile application and premium online streaming service that allows subscribers to stream results-proven workouts such as P90X, 21 Day Obsession, LIIFT4, and hundreds of others. BODi workouts can be streamed anytime, anywhere, along with additional program materials, nutritional guidance, and community support with each fitness program, many of which do not require any equipment. Its programs are highlighted, and client testimonials are included.
https://www.bodi.com/
International Fitness and Bodybuilding Federation
Headquartered in Madrid, Spain, the IFBB is an international professional bodybuilding and fitness governing body that oversees many of the sport's major global events, such as the World and Continental Championships. Although the two founding countries were Canada and the United States, in 1946, the IFBB headquarters were moved to Spain in 2006. Its affiliations, contacts, disciplines, rules, and events are featured on its website, along with registration, news, and courses.
https://ifbb.com/
Founded in 1936, the first print run of Iron Man consisted of 50 copies made via a duplicating machine. Currently operated by Iron Man Publishing, the magazine is published in Oxnard, California, and printed in Kentucky. For the first fifty years, its focus was on bodybuilding, weightlifting, and powerlifting, with an emphasis on weight training in general as a life-enhancing activity, stressing the health and character-building aspects. However, its focus has shifted to hardcore bodybuilding.
https://www.ironmanmagazine.com/
The IronMag bodybuilding and fitness blog is a resource for fitness enthusiasts and bodybuilders. It covers a wide range of topics, including workout routines, nutrition tips, and industry news. Some recent articles include discussions on the benefits and risks of a raw food diet, the effectiveness of multivitamins for longevity, and the importance of nasal breathing for optimal health and performance. A newsletter is available, and an online contact form is included.
https://www.ironmagazine.com/
M&S has grown from a hobby site to an online authority in the fitness industry, publishing information and making it available for free to readers. The site claims to feature over 10,000 pages of content, including workouts, articles, videos, meal plans, transformations, fitness tools, and expert guides. In 2008, M&S launched an online store focused on sports supplements, fitness accessories, and clothing. In 2014, M&S added a 60,000 headquarters in Columbia, South Carolina.
https://www.muscleandstrength.com/
The official website of the National Physique Committee and NPC Worldwide, the largest bodybuilding organization in the United States, highlights the organization. The NPC is the only amateur organization recognized by the IFBB Professional League, and athletes must possess a valid NPC card to compete in an NPC show. Upcoming contests, rules, schedules, and divisions are reported, along with NPC Worldwide. Videos of competitor interviews, back-stage, and on-stage videos are included.
https://npcnewsonline.com/
StrengthLog is a free workout application for iOS and Android mobile devices that allows users to track their training, create or follow training programs, and reach their fitness goals. The website includes informational articles, several exercise programs, including those intended to develop specific muscles, and programs for powerlifting, bodybuilding, bench press, squatting, and deadlifting. A support section for the mobile app is included, along with episodes of the Strength Log podcast.
https://www.strengthlog.com/
