Bodybuilding is not just a sport or a hobby. It is also a form of art that has a glorious and fascinating history. But how familiar are you with the golden era of bodybuilding? How did it transform and get transformed by culture, science, and media throughout the decades? Who were the legendary bodybuilders who dominated the sport and inspired millions of fans and followers?

In this series of articles, we will explore these questions and more, as we take you on a journey through bodybuilding history. We will uncover the secrets and stories behind the most remarkable physiques ever created, from the ancient times to the modern trends.

In this second article, we will focus on the most acclaimed period of bodybuilding, from the 1960s to the 1980s. This period is known as the Golden Era of bodybuilding (following on from the Ancient, Bronze & Silver Eras). We will see how bodybuilding achieved new levels of popularity and prestige, thanks to the impact of magazines, movies, and competitions. We will also meet the icons of bodybuilding, such as Larry Scott, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Frank Zane, Lee Haney, Cory Everson and many others, who broke the records and standards for the sport.

Are you ready to experience the glory days of the aesthetic physique? Then read on and discover how the Golden Era of bodybuilding changed the sport and the fitness industry.

The 1960s: The Decade That Changed Bodybuilding and Gave Birth to the Golden Era

The 1960s was a decade of radical change and breakthroughs in many domains of society, culture, and technology. It was also a decade of emergence and growth in the sport of bodybuilding. In this section, we will explore how the 1960s laid the foundations for the Golden Era of bodybuilding, and how it introduced new standards and styles to the sport.

The Split-System: A Breakthrough in Training

One of the most significant developments in bodybuilding during the 1960s was the introduction of the split-system style of training. This method involved dividing the body into different muscle groups and training them on separate days, allowing for more intensity, volume, and recovery. The split-system was widely adopted by the bodybuilders of the era, who learned about it from various sources, such as bodybuilding magazines, books, and mentors.

The split-system style of training had many benefits for the bodybuilders of the 1960s. It enabled them to achieve greater muscle growth, definition, and symmetry, as well as avoid overtraining and injuries. It also allowed them to experiment with different exercises, techniques, and routines, and find what worked best for their individual goals and genetics. The split-system was a breakthrough in bodybuilding training that advanced the physical development of the athletes and set the stage for the next level of the sport.

The Stars of the 1960s: The Pioneers of the Golden Era

The 1960s also witnessed the birth of some of the most influential and legendary bodybuilders in the history of the sport. These were the trailblazers of the Golden Era, who not only showcased amazing physiques, but also charisma, personality, and passion. They were the mentors and inspirations for many aspiring bodybuilders and fitness enthusiasts, and they helped to introduce and spread the sport to a wider audience.

Some of the most notable stars of the 1960s were:

• Dave Draper: Known as “The Blond Bomber”, Dave Draper was one of the first bodybuilders to achieve mainstream fame and success. He won several titles, such as Mr. America, Mr. Universe, and Mr. World, and appeared in movies, TV shows, and magazines. He was admired for his muscular and aesthetic physique, as well as his friendly and humble personality.
• Larry Scott: Known as “The Legend”, Larry Scott was the first bodybuilder to win the Mr. Olympia title. He won it twice, in 1965 and 1966, and then retired at the peak of his career. He was famous for his incredible arms, especially his biceps, which were considered the best in the world.
• Sergio Oliva: Known as “The Myth”, Sergio Oliva was one of the most genetically gifted and dominant bodybuilders of all time. He won the Mr. Olympia title three times, in 1967, 1968, and 1969, and was one of the few bodybuilders to ever defeat Arnold Schwarzenegger in competition. He was renowned for his massive and symmetrical physique, as well as his charismatic and confident attitude.
• Bill Pearl: Known as “The World’s Best-Built Man”, Bill Pearl was one of the most respected and accomplished bodybuilders of the 1960s. He won several titles, such as Mr. America, Mr. Universe, and Mr. World, and was also a successful author, trainer, and promoter. He was admired for his muscular and proportionate physique, as well as his dedication and professionalism.

These were some of the stars of the 1960s, who paved the way for the Golden Era of bodybuilding and inspired generations of fans and followers.

The Competitions of the 1960s: The Global Stage of Bodybuilding

Another important aspect of bodybuilding in the 1960s was the emergence of the major competitions that showcased the best physiques in the world. These were the international events that broadened the appeal of the sport and grew its fan base. They were also the platforms that allowed the bodybuilders to display their talents, achievements, and personalities, and to compete for glory and recognition.

Some of the most significant competitions of the 1960s were:

• The Mr. Olympia: One of the most prestigious titles in bodybuilding, created in 1965, where only the winners of the other major titles could compete.
• The Mr. Universe: One of the oldest and most respected titles in bodybuilding, created in 1950, open to amateur and professional bodybuilders from all over the world.
• The World Championships: One of the most controversial and influential titles in bodybuilding, created in 1969, a rival event to the other competitions, offering higher prize money and exposure.

These were some of the competitions of the 1960s, that established the global stage of bodybuilding and attracted millions of spectators and supporters.

The Dark Side of the 1960s: The Introduction of P.E.Ds

The 1960s was not only a decade of progress and innovation in bodybuilding, but also a decade of risk and experimentation. During this period, performance-enhancing drugs (P.E.Ds), such as anabolic steroids, started to become a part of the sport. These substances were used by some bodybuilders to enhance their muscle size, strength, and recovery, and to gain an edge over their competitors.

However, the use of P.E.Ds was very much a new thing for these bodybuilders, and they didn’t quite fully understand the ramifications like we do now. They were often unaware of the side effects, dangers, and legal issues associated with these drugs.

The use of P.E.Ds has had a severely detrimental effect on the sport of bodybuilding, not only in the eyes of the public, but also health wise and by ruining the appearance of the physiques. Many bodybuilders suffer from serious health problems, such as liver damage, heart disease, kidney failure, and cancer, as a result of their drug abuse. Many bodybuilders also lost their aesthetic and symmetrical physiques, and developed grotesque and disproportionate features, such as bloated stomachs, enlarged heads, and gynecomastia.

Many of the Golden Era bodybuilders have since come out in modern times against the use of steroids and other P.E.Ds, and have advocated for natural and healthy bodybuilding. They have also expressed their regret and remorse for their past mistakes, and have warned the younger generation of bodybuilders about the dangers and consequences of drug use.

The 1970s: The Decade that Popularized the Golden Era of Bodybuilding

The 1970s was a decade of progress and achievements in many fields of society, culture, and technology. It was also a decade of prominence and glory in the sport of bodybuilding. In this section, we will explore how the 1970s amplified the Golden Era of bodybuilding, and how it connected and interacted with the world.

Pumping Iron and Beyond: Bodybuilding in Mainstream Media

One of the most important factors that contributed to the popularity and prestige of bodybuilding in the 1970s was the exposure and representation of the sport in mainstream media. The most famous and influential example of this was the documentary film “Pumping Iron”, released in 1977. The film followed the lives and preparations of several bodybuilders, including Arnold Schwarzenegger and Lou Ferrigno, for the 1975 Mr. Olympia and Mr. Universe competitions. The film was a huge hit, and introduced the sport and its stars to millions of viewers around the world. The film also portrayed the bodybuilders as charismatic, confident, and competitive, and highlighted the drama, humor, and passion behind the sport.

“Pumping Iron” was not the only example of bodybuilding in mainstream media in the 1970s. There were also other movies, TV shows, and magazines that featured bodybuilding and bodybuilders, such as “Stay Hungry”, “The Incredible Hulk”, “Muscle Builder”, and “Muscle and Fitness”. These media outlets helped to popularize and promote the sport to a wider audience, and to showcase the beauty, strength, and artistry of the bodybuilding physique.

Venice Beach and Gold’s Gym: The Mecca of Bodybuilding

Another important aspect of bodybuilding in the 1970s was the location and environment of the sport. The epicenter of bodybuilding during this era was California, especially the city of Los Angeles and its famous beachside neighborhood of Venice. Venice Beach was the home of many bodybuilders, who trained, lived, and socialized there. Venice Beach was also the place where bodybuilders could display their physiques to the public, and attract attention, admiration, and inspiration. Venice Beach was the ultimate destination for bodybuilding fans and enthusiasts, who came to see and meet their idols.

The most iconic and legendary place in Venice Beach for bodybuilding was Gold’s Gym, the original and oldest gym of its kind. Gold’s Gym was founded in 1965 by Joe Gold, a former bodybuilder and weightlifter. Gold’s Gym was the place where the best bodybuilders in the world trained, and where the most intense and hardcore workouts took place. Gold’s Gym was also the place where the bodybuilders formed friendships, rivalries, and alliances, and where the culture and spirit of the sport was born and nurtured. Gold’s Gym was the Mecca of bodybuilding, and the heart and soul of the Golden Era.

The Legends of the 1970s: The Masters of the Golden Era

The 1970s also featured the peak of some of the most talented and iconic bodybuilders in the history of the sport. These were the stars of the Golden Era, who not only exhibited phenomenal physiques, but also charisma, personality, and passion. They were the heroes and legends of the sport, and they continue to influence and inspire millions of fans and fitness enthusiasts.

Some of the most notable legends of the 1970s were:

• Arnold Schwarzenegger: Known as “The Austrian Oak”, Arnold Schwarzenegger was the undisputed king of bodybuilding in the 1970s. He won the Mr. Olympia title seven times, from 1970 to 1975, and again in 1980. He was famous for his massive and aesthetic physique, especially his chest, arms, and calves, as well as his charismatic and confident attitude. He was also the star of “Pumping Iron” and other movies, and later became a successful actor, politician, and businessman.
• Frank Zane: Known as “The Chemist”, Frank Zane was one of the most intelligent and refined bodybuilders of the 1970s. He won the Mr. Olympia title three times, from 1977 to 1979. He was renowned for his lean and symmetrical physique, especially his abs, serratus, and small waist, as well as his dedication and professionalism. He was also a teacher, author, and trainer, and is considered one of the pioneers of the aesthetic physique.
• Lou Ferrigno: Known as “The Hulk”, Lou Ferrigno was one of the most powerful and impressive bodybuilders of the 1970s. He won the Mr. Universe title twice, in 1973 and 1974, and was the runner-up to Arnold Schwarzenegger in the 1974 Mr. Olympia. He was famous for his huge and muscular physique, especially his shoulders and arms, as well as his gentle and humble personality. He was also the star of “The Incredible Hulk” and other movies and TV shows.
• Franco Columbu: Known as “The Sardinian Strongman”, Franco Columbu was one of the most versatile and accomplished bodybuilders of the 1970s. He won the Mr. Olympia title twice, in 1976 and 1981, and was also a champion in powerlifting, boxing, and strongman competitions. He was admired for his compact and proportionate physique, especially his chest and back, as well as his strength and endurance. He was also a close friend and training partner of Arnold Schwarzenegger, and appeared in several movies with him.
• Serge Nubret: Known as “The Black Panther”, Serge Nubret was one of the most elegant and graceful bodybuilders of the 1970s. He won the Mr. Universe title in 1976, and was the runner-up to Arnold Schwarzenegger in the 1975 Mr. Olympia. He was renowned for his dense and defined physique, especially his chest and abs, as well as his posing and presentation. He was also an actor, promoter, and leader of bodybuilding in Europe and Africa.
• Robby Robinson: Known as “The Black Prince”, Robby Robinson was one of the most charismatic and respected bodybuilders of the 1970s. He won several titles, such as Mr. America, Mr. World, and Mr. Universe, and was also a top contender in the Mr. Olympia. He was famous for his muscular and symmetrical physique, especially his arms, shoulders, and back, as well as his attitude and style. He was also a vocal advocate for racial equality and justice in the sport and society.
• Ed Corney: Known as “The Master Poser”, Ed Corney was one of the most artistic and expressive bodybuilders of the 1970s. He won several titles, such as Mr. America, Mr. Universe, and Mr. World, and was also a top contender in the Mr. Olympia. He was admired for his aesthetic and balanced physique, especially his chest, arms, and calves, as well as his posing and performance. He was also a featured athlete in “Pumping Iron” and other bodybuilding media.

These were some of the legends of the 1970s, who mastered the art and science of bodybuilding and created the Golden Era.

The Continuing Popularity of the 1970s: The Timeless Appeal of the Golden Era

The 1970s was not only a decade of success and excellence in bodybuilding, but also a decade of legacy and influence. The 1970s are the most well known of the Golden Era of bodybuilding, and its impact is still felt and seen today. The 1970s is still the most widely popular and admired era of bodybuilding among fans, enthusiasts, and athletes. The 1970s is still the source of inspiration and motivation for many people who pursue fitness and bodybuilding goals.

The reasons for the continuing popularity of the 1970s are many and varied. Some of the reasons are:

• The 1970s represented the ideal balance between size and aesthetics, mass and definition, and strength and symmetry in bodybuilding. The bodybuilders of the 1970s had physiques that were muscular and impressive, but also artistic and pleasing. The bodybuilders of the 1970s had physiques that were attainable and realistic, but also aspirational and inspirational.
• The 1970s showcased the diversity and individuality of bodybuilding. The bodybuilders of the 1970s had different backgrounds, personalities, and styles, and they expressed them through their physiques and performances. The bodybuilders of the 1970s had different strengths, weaknesses, and preferences, and they adapted them to their training and nutrition. The bodybuilders of the 1970s had different goals, challenges, and achievements, and they shared them with their fans and followers.
• The 1970s captured the spirit and culture of bodybuilding. The bodybuilders of the 1970s had a passion and dedication for the sport that was unmatched and contagious. The bodybuilders of the 1970s had a camaraderie and rivalry that was respectful and exciting. The bodybuilders of the 1970s had a lifestyle and environment that was fun and adventurous.

These are some of the reasons why the 1970s is still the most beloved and revered era of bodybuilding, and why the Golden Era is timeless and universal.

The 1980s: The Peak of Bodybuilding and the Golden Era’s Legacy

The 1980s was a decade of creativity and diversity in many aspects of society, culture, and technology. It was also a decade of culmination and expansion in the sport of bodybuilding. In this section, we will explore how the 1980s marked the zenith of bodybuilding and the Golden Era’s legacy, and how it influenced and adapted to the world.

The Fitness Revolution: Bodybuilding Goes Mainstream

One of the most important factors that contributed to the success and popularity of bodybuilding in the 1980s was the fitness revolution that swept across the world. Fitness became an integral part of people’s lives, as they sought to improve their health, appearance, and well-being. Fitness also became a cultural phenomenon, as it was reflected and promoted by various media, such as music, movies, and magazines. Fitness also became a lucrative industry, as it spawned a variety of products, services, and brands.

Bodybuilding was at the forefront of the fitness revolution, as it spilled over to the mainstream and reached a wider and more diverse audience. Bodybuilding was no longer a niche sport for a few enthusiasts, but a global movement for millions of fans and followers. Bodybuilding was also no longer a male-dominated sport, but a sport that welcomed and celebrated women and their achievements. Bodybuilding was also no longer a sport that focused solely on muscle size and mass, but a sport that embraced different aspects of fitness, such as endurance, flexibility, and agility.

The Legends of the Sport: The Champions of the 80s

The 1980s also saw the emergence and dominance of some of the most talented and legendary bodybuilders in the history of the sport. These were the titans of the 80s, who not only displayed incredible physiques, but also charisma, personality, and passion. They were the leaders and innovators of the sport, and they helped to popularize and diversify the sport to a wider audience.

Some of the most notable athletes of the 1980s were:

• Chris Dickerson: Known as “The Perfectionist”, Chris Dickerson was one of the most consistent and accomplished bodybuilders of the 1980s. He won several titles, such as Mr. America, Mr. Universe, and Mr. World, and was also the oldest bodybuilder to win the Mr. Olympia title, at the age of 43, in 1982. He was famous for his balanced and aesthetic physique, especially thighs and calves, as well as his posing and presentation. He was also a pioneer and advocate for diversity and inclusion in the sport, as he was one of the first openly gay and black bodybuilders.
• Samir Bannout: Known as “The Lion of Lebanon”, Samir Bannout was one of the most charismatic and impressive bodybuilders of the 1980s. He won the Mr. Olympia title in 1983, and was also a top contender in several other competitions, such as the World Pro Championships and the Night of Champions. He was renowned for his muscular and symmetrical physique, especially his back, which was considered one of the best in the world. He was also a popular and respected figure in the bodybuilding community, and a mentor and friend to many other bodybuilders.
• Mike Mentzer: Known as “Mr Heavy Duty”, Mike Mentzer was one of the most intelligent and innovative bodybuilders of the 1980s. He won several titles, such as Mr. America, Mr. Universe, and the Mr. Olympia heavyweight division, and was also the first bodybuilder to score a perfect 300 in the old judging system. He was famous for his massive and defined physique, especially his triceps, forearms, and calves, as well as his strength and intensity. He was also the creator and promoter of the Heavy Duty training system, which advocated for low-volume and high-intensity workouts, and challenged the conventional wisdom of the sport.
• Tom Platz: Known as “The Golden Eagle”, Tom Platz was one of the most powerful and spectacular bodybuilders of the 1980s. He won several titles, such as Mr. Universe, and was also a top contender in several other competitions including the Mr. Olympia. He was famous for his huge and muscular physique, especially his legs, which were considered the best in the world. He was also a passionate and energetic performer, and a crowd favorite in every show.
• Lee Haney: Known as “Totalee”, Lee Haney was one of the most dominant and successful bodybuilders of the 1980s. He won the Mr. Olympia title eight times, from 1984 to 1991, and beat the record of Arnold Schwarzenegger. He was renowned for his massive and aesthetic physique, especially his back, shoulders, and chest, as well as his proportion and symmetry. He was also a humble and gracious champion, and a role model and leader for the sport.
• Rich Gaspari: Known as “The Dragon Slayer”, Rich Gaspari was one of the most competitive and determined bodybuilders of the 1980s. He won several titles on the “Grand Prix” circuit, and was also the runner-up to Lee Haney in the Mr. Olympia for three consecutive years, from 1986 to 1988. He was admired for his lean and ripped physique, especially his core and chest, as well as his conditioning and definition. He was also a fierce and fearless competitor, and a challenger to the best bodybuilders in the world.

These were some of the legends of the sport in the 1980s, who reached the peak of bodybuilding and the Golden Era.

Bob Paris: The Rebel of the Sport

One of the most controversial and influential bodybuilders of the 1980s was Bob Paris, who was known as the rebel of the sport. Bob Paris was one of the most aesthetic and graceful bodybuilders of the era, who won several titles, such as Mr. America & Mr. Universe, and was a top contender at the Mr. Olympia. He was famous for his symmetrical and proportionate physique, especially his chest, arms, and waist, as well as his posing and presentation. He was also one of the first openly gay bodybuilders, who came out in 1989, and faced discrimination and backlash from some fans and critics.

Bob Paris was also a vocal critic of the direction and trends of the sport, which favored mass and size over aesthetics and quality. He pushed back against the negative changes that were coming into the sport, such as the excessive use of drugs, the loss of symmetry and proportion, and the lack of artistry and creativity. He advocated for a return to the ideals and standards of the old school era, and for a more natural and healthy approach to bodybuilding. He was also a writer, actor, and activist, who used his platform and voice to raise awareness and support for various causes, such as gay rights, animal rights, and environmental issues.

Bob Paris was the rebel of the sport in the 1980s, who challenged the status quo and fought for his vision and values.

Bodybuilding on TV and Movies: The Muscle Boom

Another important aspect of bodybuilding in the 1980s was the exposure and representation of the sport on TV and movies. The 1980s was a decade of muscle boom, as bodybuilding and bodybuilders became more visible and popular in the entertainment industry. Bodybuilding and bodybuilders appeared in various TV programs, such as documentaries, talk shows, and competitions, and reached millions of viewers around the world. Bodybuilding and bodybuilders also appeared in various movies, such as action, comedy, and drama, and starred in some of the biggest hits of the decade.

Some of the most notable examples of bodybuilding on TV in the 1980s were:

• ESPN’s BodyShaping: BodyShaping was a TV show that aired on ESPN from 1985 to 1996, and featured various segments on bodybuilding, fitness, and nutrition. The show was hosted by several bodybuilders and fitness models, such as Cory Everson, Kiana Tom, Rick Valente, and Lee Haney. The show displayed the workouts and tips of the hosts and guests, as well as their personalities and lifestyles. The show was a ratings success, and became one of the most watched and informative shows on bodybuilding and fitness.
• Lee Haney’s Championship Workout: Lee Haney’s Championship Workout was a TV show that aired on ESPN from 1987 to 1991, and featured the training and advice of Lee Haney, the eight-time Mr. Olympia champion. The show was hosted by Lee Haney himself, and featured various exercises, routines, and techniques that he used to build his phenomenal physique. The show also featured guest appearances by other bodybuilders and celebrities, such as Arnold Schwarzenegger, Mike Tyson, and Evander Holyfield. The show was a ratings success, and became one of the most popular and inspirational shows on bodybuilding and fitness.
• American Muscle: American Muscle was a TV show that aired on ESPN from 1988 to 1996, and featured various segments on bodybuilding, fitness, and nutrition. The show was hosted by several bodybuilders and fitness models, such as John Basedow, Lou Ferrigno, Shawn Ray, and Lenda Murray. The show displayed the workouts and tips of the hosts and guests, as well as their personalities and lifestyles. The show was a ratings success, and became one of the most watched and informative shows on bodybuilding and fitness.

Some of the most notable examples of bodybuilding on movies in the 1980s were:

• The Arnold Schwarzenegger Movies: Arnold Schwarzenegger was the biggest movie star of the 1980s, and starred in several blockbuster hits, such as Conan the Barbarian, The Terminator, Predator, and Twins. Schwarzenegger showcased his muscular and impressive physique, as well as his charisma and presence, in various roles and genres. Schwarzenegger also used his fame and influence to promote and support the sport of bodybuilding, and to inspire and motivate millions of fans and followers.
• The Sylvester Stallone Movies: Sylvester Stallone was another movie star of the 1980s, and starred in several blockbuster hits, such as Rocky, Rambo, and Cobra. Stallone showcased his lean and ripped physique, as well as his strength and endurance, in various roles and genres. Stallone also used his fame and influence to promote and support the sport of bodybuilding, and to inspire and motivate millions of fans and followers.

These were some of the examples of bodybuilding on TV and movies in the 1980s, that made bodybuilding and bodybuilders more visible and popular in the entertainment industry.

Women’s Bodybuilding: The Rise of the Female Physique

Another important aspect of bodybuilding in the 1980s was the emergence and development of women’s bodybuilding, which was a sport that welcomed and celebrated women and their achievements. Women’s bodybuilding was a sport that challenged the stereotypes and norms of femininity and beauty, and showcased the strength, power, and beauty of the female physique. Women’s bodybuilding was also a sport that offered opportunities and rewards for women who pursued their fitness and bodybuilding goals.

Some of the most notable women bodybuilders of the 1980s were:

• Rachel McLish: The first Ms. Olympia champion and one of the most influential and successful women bodybuilders of the 1980s. She had a lean and symmetrical physique, and was also a star of “Pumping Iron II” and other movies and books.
• Ritva Elomaa: The second Ms. Olympia champion and one of the most competitive and impressive women bodybuilders of the 1980s. She had a muscular and defined physique, and was also a featured athlete in “Pumping Iron II” and other bodybuilding media.
• Carla Dunlap: A multiple title winner and one of the most consistent and accomplished women bodybuilders of the 1980s. She had a balanced and aesthetic physique, and was also a featured athlete in “Pumping Iron II” and other bodybuilding media.
• Cory Everson: The six-time Ms. Olympia champion and one of the most dominant and successful women bodybuilders of the 1980s. She had a muscular and symmetrical physique, and was also a star of several movies and TV shows.
• Gladys Portugues: A multiple title winner and one of the most elegant and graceful women bodybuilders of the 1980s. She had a lean and defined physique, and was also the wife of Jean-Claude Van Damme, and appeared in several movies with him.

These were some of the women bodybuilders of the 1980s, who rose to the top of the sport and the Golden Era.

Pumping Iron II: The Women and Their Struggle Against Sexism

“Pumping Iron II: The Women” was a documentary film that followed four women bodybuilders for the 1983 Caesars World Cup. The film showed their challenges and achievements, as well as the controversy and debate over the standards of women’s bodybuilding. The film introduced women’s bodybuilding to millions of viewers, and inspired many women to pursue their fitness and bodybuilding goals.

The film also exposed the sexism and discrimination that women bodybuilders faced in the sport and society, such as being judged by their appearance and femininity, being harassed and ridiculed by some fans and critics, and being denied equal opportunities and rewards as men. The film also showed how they fought for their rights and recognition, by expressing their individuality and identity, by challenging the norms and stereotypes, and by supporting and empowering each other.

The film also foreshadowed the decline and demise of women’s bodybuilding in the following decades, as the sport was replaced by model-inspired divisions, such as fitness, figure, and bikini. These divisions required athletes to wear high heels, flashy outfits, and perform more like fashion models than bodybuilders. They also eliminated the traditional posing routines, which showcased the strength, power, and beauty of the female physique, and replaced them with more generic and superficial walks and turns. These changes diminished the essence and spirit of women’s bodybuilding, and alienated many fans and followers.

Celebrating the Golden Era of Bodybuilding History

In this article, we have explored the peak and legacy of Golden Era bodybuilding, from the 1960s to the 1980s. We have seen how bodybuilding reached new heights of popularity and prestige, thanks to the impact of TV, movies, and competitions. We have also met the icons of bodybuilding, who dominated the sport and inspired millions of fans and followers. They include Larry Scott, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Frank Zane, Lee Haney, Cory Everson, and many others, who set the records and standards for the sport.

This period covers the Golden Era of bodybuilding which followed on from the Ancient, Bronze & Silver Eras. The Golden Era is considered the most celebrated and revered era of the sport. This era had its own characteristics, challenges, and achievements, and influenced and got influenced by the world. The Golden Era of bodybuilding was also a diverse and inclusive era, as it welcomed and celebrated women and their achievements, and challenged the stereotypes and norms of femininity and beauty.

We hope you enjoyed this article and learned something new about bodybuilding history. If you want to stay updated and join our online community, please follow us on Instagram and join our Facebook Group. There you can find more tips, discussions, and exclusive content on all things natural bodybuilding. You can also learn more about our natural bodybuilding competitions, where we promote and celebrate the sport in a fair and drug-free way. Thank you for reading and stay tuned for the next article.