Why bodybuilding is for everyone – and why everyone can benefit from it

What does bodybuilding truly mean?

The term "bodybuilding" is often associated with presenting extreme muscle mass on competitive stages worldwide – yet bodybuilding is more than just a competitive sport.

Literally translated, bodybuilding means nothing more than building up the body, regardless of whether this is done to enhance one's own well-being or to compete with others on a sporting level.

Building a healthy, high-performing, and attractive body requires sport, or rather, movement, a needs-based, balanced diet, and sufficient recovery in the form of relaxation and high-quality sleep.

Our company founder, Joe Weider, predicted early on in his 10 predictions that the cornerstones of bodybuilding would one day be recognized as the foundation of a healthy and satisfying life.

#5 “I PREDICT that the principles of good bodybuilding, which include balanced diets, adequate sleep, plenty of fresh air, ample sunshine, and regular work-outs, will become basic principles of living.”

“I predict that the principles of bodybuilding – a balanced diet, sufficient sleep, fresh air, sun exposure, and regular training – will one day form the basis of a fulfilling life.” (author's paraphrase)

While Joe Weider was known as the "Trainer of Champions" and the discoverer of multiple Mr. Olympia Arnold Schwarzenegger, it was always his vision to communicate the principles of bodybuilding to the masses and positively influence the lives of as many people as possible.

#2 “I PREDICT that the resulting increase in mental and physical illness will force the world to recognize the importance of systematic exercise and physical activities to prevent and combat the evils of civilization.”

“I predict that the increase in physical and mental illnesses will lead humanity to realize the importance of physical activity for the prevention of lifestyle diseases.” (author's paraphrase)

Why strength training promotes health

Today, physical inactivity represents one of the greatest health problems in our modern society. Joe Weider was already aware back then that bodybuilding, i.e., training and strengthening the body, would prove to be one of the most important means of health prevention and combating lifestyle diseases!

Many years later, scientific data are accumulating, and the positive effect of strength training on health has long been undeniable. With targeted strength training, everyone can do something good for their body and mental health.

#3 “I PREDICT that bodybuilding will become the chief form of systematic exercise and physical activity and that it will come to be looked upon as one of the greatest forces in the field of preventive medicine.”

“I predict that bodybuilding will be recognized as one of the most significant and influential measures (interventions) in the field of preventive medicine.” (author's paraphrase)

There is almost no need to discuss the health-promoting effects of a needs-based, balanced diet, as the findings in this regard are so clear and unambiguous. Likewise, there is no longer any doubt about the positive effects of strength and endurance training. Physical exertion, which is one of the main components of bodybuilding, improves, among other things, sugar metabolism, so-called metabolic flexibility, body composition (muscle mass↑, fat mass↓), the health of the cardiovascular system, and cognitive performance.

Scientific data are also accumulating regarding the improvement of symptoms of psychiatric illnesses (e.g., depression, burnout, anxiety disorders, etc.).

Furthermore, strength training prevents age-related muscle loss and a decrease in bone density (sarcopenia), thereby maintaining the physical independence and mobility of older people. Consequently, training contributes not only in younger years but especially in old age to maintaining and increasing quality of life.

Summarizing all these positive aspects, it is not surprising that physical activity can reduce the probability of death from various causes ("all-cause mortality").

Why bodybuilding is suitable for everyone

In view of all these protective, health-promoting effects, there is no doubt that Joe Weider already had the right intuition for the potential societal significance of bodybuilding many decades ago.

We follow the vision of our founder and want to accompany and support people on their journey to a healthier and more efficient body with our products – whether they are health-conscious individuals, recreational athletes, or competitive athletes.

Bodybuilding means much more than muscle building. It stands for a lifestyle that combines exercise, balanced nutrition, recovery, and personal development. That's precisely why the principles of bodybuilding are more relevant today than ever. They help people of all ages promote their health, maintain their performance, and increase their quality of life. Since 1936, WEIDER has pursued the vision of accompanying people on this path – from beginners to competitive athletes.

WEIDER – #WeAreBodybuilding