Female bodybuilding: Images of women

March 5, 2012

The noted photographer and artist Martin Schoeller, captured images of a group of women who entered the world of female bodybuilding. 

The sport of female bodybuilding competition is rooted in bikini contests since the ’60s, but the real first event was the Women’s National Championship in Physics, USA, in 1978 – where participants were judged only by their muscles.

According to the National Committee for Physics, an organization of amateurs in 1982 established strict rules for competing in female bodybuilding contests.

Contestants must wear a two piece suit when competing and although the prints, fringe, lace and glitter are allowed, the builders are limited to go with outfits that show better physique.

The jewelry was prohibited until the later stages, only allowed pending, although the trim pieces in the hair are out. Glasses, objects or chewing gum are also prohibited.

During competitions, bodybuilders usually carry out a series of routines with music to show their muscles with poses.

Contestants are covered with a good portion of oil, and are judged by the symmetry, shape, proportion, muscle tone, balance and flow of beauty.

One of the biggest contests in the U.S. is the Muscle Beach Bodybuilding Championship, bikini competition at Venice Beach in Los Angeles. The next event will take place on May 28.

The organizer and promoter Joe Wheatley said: “Muscle Beach Venice, is one of the biggest attractions of Los Angeles. The objective remains the exercise and nutrition and the soul remains the basis of bodybuilding famous throughout the world”.