Bodybuilding

General Rules

Each discipline of bodybuilding and Fitness has a specific set of rules that are governed by the IFBB on international as well as continental levels. To read about various rules and regulations according to the respective disciplines, 

General History

Bodybuilding by the ancient Greeks was accepted as the origin and motivation for its practice by most in societies later on. The modern competitions grew mostly out of the European strongman circus and theatrical acts of the late 19th century. The first American physique contest, platformed by physical culturist Bernarr Macfadden (1868–1955), was held in 1903 in New York City. Al Treloar, the winner of that competition, was named “The Most Perfectly Developed Man in the World.”

 

The most influential star in the history of bodybuilding is the Austrian-born, American bodybuilder, who is a seven-time winner of the title of Mr. Olympia (1970-75, 1980), Arnold Schwarzenegger. His amazing physique, charming personality, and subsequent successful career in films was a revolution in its impact, promoting greater recognition of bodybuilding and fitness-related activities in American society. His Arnold Classic which is a physique and fitness affair is held annually in Columbus, Ohio and is a premier event for physical culturists. Six-time Ms. Olympia Cory Everson fired a similar awakening among the women’s bodybuilding, which started holding competitions in the 1970s.