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Bodybuilders Through the Ages
Over the past 150 years, bodybuilders have gone from circus sideshows to celebrities, imparting fitness lessons along the way
By Jesse Rhodes
Smithsonian.com, July 20, 2009
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(Library of Congress)
Eugen Sandow (1867-1925)
Unlike other strongmen of the late 1800s, the Prussian-born Sandow was not just adept at exhibiting feats of strength—he was a sex symbol and among the first to capitalize on displaying his developed, muscular physique. While touring in Florenz Ziegfeld’s Trocadero Vaudevilles, the 5-foot-8, 220-pound Sandow attained stardom in America and immortalized his flexing routine in front of Thomas Edison’s movie camera. In 1901, this “Father of Modern Bodybuilding” organized the first major bodybuilding contest, which was held in England’s Royal Albert Hall.
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Comments
Bernarr was right on target with his comments on the American diet.
Posted by Jax on July 29,2009 | 07:38AM
Steve Reeves most notable credit was leftout,he was Superman and really fit the part.
Posted by leon stroffolino on July 31,2009 | 02:27AM
That was George Reeves, not Steve.
Posted by Jo on August 5,2009 | 10:58AM
Jack LaLanne is still going strong and working out at 94. There was an article in the Modesto Bee about him recently. Weight training may not necessarily make you live longer but it will make your life better as you get older.
Posted by Denise on August 8,2009 | 09:38AM
in reference to the comment left by mr. leon stroffolino, the television role of superman wasn't played by steve reeves. rather, the man of steel was played by GEORGE reeves, who comitted suicide in the late fifties.
Posted by milt marhoffer on August 8,2009 | 10:41AM
Both Reeves did that part.
Posted by Sand. on August 8,2009 | 08:37PM