Bodybuilding is a sport that began before the turn of the 20th century. Back then, not much research had been conducted on the effects of excessive weightlifting on the human body. In the more than one hundred years since bodybuilding first appeared in popular culture, much knowledge has been gained about how different muscle groups interact with each other and the best ways in which to stimulate those muscles so that they will gain mass. Bodybuilding as a sport has always been about maximizing the size of the muscles of the human body, and today, with the tools and technology available, becoming a bodybuilder is an accessible path for just about anyone.

One of the factors that has helped increase the awareness of bodybuilding today is the popularity of it across popular culture. Sporting events featuring massive, hulking men and women are regularly played on television, and these competitors pose in a variety of fashions, each striving to appear as the most attractive and evenly-developed contestant. Most Americans can name at least one former professional bodybuilder: Arnold Schwarzenegger, the actor and former governor of California, as well as a seven-time Mr. Olympia, one of the most prestigious titles in modern bodybuilding.

One need not be a professional to become a bodybuilder, though. There are many websites, books, and publications dedicated to the amateur bodybuilder. These are filled with workout regimens, dieting tips, and a host of other information that the beginning bodybuilder will find quite useful in his or her quest to get “ripped.” There are also several social networking sites on the Internet today, similar to Facebook, but dedicated entirely to bodybuilding. People who use these websites can swap tips, recipes, and anything else related to their hobby.

Another thing that has greatly increased the ease with which people can get involved in bodybuilding is the development and wide availability of weightlifting supplements. In the past, the use of anabolic steroids was common among bodybuilders, but these dangerous drugs are both illegal and often highly lethal. However, modern science has unlocked the secrets to increasing the amount of muscle enhancement that a single workout can do. By feeding the body certain supplements, the positive effects of, say, a set of bench press can be increased significantly. This allows amateur bodybuilders to build their mountains of muscle faster and easier, which widens the accessibility of the sport. These weightlifting supplements can be found in almost any drugstore, as well as several major retailers. Another diet additive that is commonly used by bodybuilders is protein shakes, which are powders that, when mixed with water, create a beverage that is extremely high in protein content. Protein is an essential nutrient to building and maintain muscle tone and definition.

Bodybuilding today has come a long way from the late 1800s. Today, there are professional competitions all around the world, and public consciousness of the sport has increased significantly, as many bodybuilders become quite popular. The ease with which bodybuilders can enhance their bodies and network makes this a very a sport that is very much within reach of many people.

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Category: Wellness, Fitness and Diet
Keywords: bodybuilding,professional bodybuilder,weightlifting supplements