Bodybuilding Diet

Bodybuilding is a sport that promotes physical fitness, healthy competition and good sportsmanship. Improving ones strength and physical ability actually began in ancient Greece for the Olympic games. It has since progressed to a competitive sport that displays not only the physical abilities of the competitor but also promotes sportsmanship, cooperation and team work. The first Mr. Olympia was held in 1965 and Larry Scott claimed the title. Arnold Schwarzenegger won the title in 1970. These two men led the way for many others to follow such as Frank Zane, Samir Bannout and Lee Haney.

Classic Bodybuilders and what they ate:

The old school bodybuilding nutrition information included large amounts of protein for growing muscle mass and enough carbohydrates for energy and endurance. It was not uncommon for competitors to consume a half dozen eggs and pound of bacon for breakfast in an attempt to satisfy the protein requirements. Carbo loading referred to eating large amounts of pasta for energy before and after a workout or competition. There was not a lot of accurate nutritional information available at this time and many just went with whatever worked for them.

How have diets changed in bodybuilding over the past few years?

One of the best known bodybuilders in history, Lou Ferrigno, star of television hit "The Incredible Hulk" challenged himself to make a comeback at a competing weight of 300 lbs of nearly solid muscle. He did this by eating huge amounts of protein such as the diet outlined above. One problem that many bodybuilders face is building good muscle mass while keeping body fat low. Fat hides muscle definition and impedes the competitors progress.

How different are the bodybuilding diets today from those of the past?

The classic bodybuilding diet of the past was based on high protein and high fat levels. This meant eating several times a day with large amounts of protein and some carbohydrates to fuel workouts. Before a competition the bodybuilder would have to diet drastically to lose excess fat to display the well earned muscle definition. This would continue in a cycle that would repeat itself until new methods became available which made this easier to accomplish.

The bodybuilding diet of today focuses on nutrition in the form of healthy, well-balanced meals of 60 percent protein, 30 percent carbohydrates and 10 percent fats. Supplements and protein shakes help add protein and nutrients while promoting energy and fuel for exercise. Many bodybuilders use a diet that is high in protein and low in carbohydrates while maintaining a healthy metabolism to burn fat without stringent dieting. It becomes a way of life rather than a repetitive cycle.

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This information presented is intended to be used for educational purposes only. The statements made have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (U.S.). These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any condition or disease. Please consult with your own physician or health care practitioner regarding any suggestions and recommendations made.