Bodybuilding can be easily defined as the activity through which muscle mass is developed through exercising; this is mainly through the lifting of varying weights in repetitious sets. There are many competitions through which bodybuilders can make names for themselves on the international arena. These competitions are normally sanctioned by the International Federation of Bodybuilders. The IFBB was founded by Joe and Ben Weider. Eugen Sandow, a native of Prussia is credited as a forerunner in the development of bodybuilding and ensuring that the sport became a popular activity that is admired and awed by many across the globe. Sandow was responsibe for organizing the maiden bodybuilding contest that was held in London, England on 14th September 1901. The contest was dubbed The Great Competition and its winner was William Murray from Nottingham in England.



The premier event in modern bodybuilding is obviously the Mr. Olympia competition. The winner of the annual event receives a trophy that is made with an effigy of Eugen Sandow. The trophy has been affectionately referred to as the Sandler. From 1901 when the first contest was held there have been great developments in the sport. The greatest developments were however experienced between the 1930s and the 1970s. These four decades saw the emergence of athletes who had began to thoroughly understand the benefit of intense training techniques and the importance of proper nutrition. This made for great competitions where audiences were awed by the massive frames of these athletes. This same period saw the formation of various bodies which catered for many aspects of the sport. The IFBB was formed during this period as mentioned by Ben and Joe Weider. This federation is responsible for the organization of the Mr. America competition. In Britain the National Amateur Bodybuilders Association or NABBA was formed. NABBA is responsible for the organization of the Mr. Universe contest which has remained a popular contest to this day.

Among the icons of the sport it is Arnold Schwarzenegger who has enjoyed the most success. The native of Austria but now a citizen of the United States wowed audiences through the late 60s and all over the 70s. Schwarzenegger won a remarkable 4 Mr. Universe titles and an unprecedented 7 Mr. Olympia titles which included a five time consecutive win. After his successes the sport saw the emergence of other legends including Lou Ferrigno, Dorian Yates and Lee Haney. These stars of yesteryear have found worthy successors in the likes of Ronnie Coleman and Jay Cutler.

The 1980s saw an influx in the usage of bodybuilding steroids. The IFBB and the Olympic Committee spearheaded campaigns and activities that were aimed at reducing or discouraging the use of these steroids. Tough anti-doping regulations were introduced and these measures continued well into the 90s. The current crop of bodybuilders is reverting back to more natural training methods without too much of steroids. It has been established that with proper resistance training, proper diets and adequate rest one can achieve top results.