Abstract
This paper reflects and theorises upon the engagement in a 'self-reflexive body pro-
ject' by five male bodybuilders as they experience becoming, and being a bodybuilder. Using a life history approach, the notion of 'process' is opened up by contextualising the participants' bodybuilding biographies in a social, cultural and historical framework. Subjective meanings of constructing and 'being' a hypermuscular male body are considered in relation to indications of empowerment and enselfment as experienced by these men as their bodies develop. In interpreting this data, a range of theories of the body are eclectically drawn upon to inform the process of becoming and being a bodybuilder in terms of its impact on self and social identity.
ject' by five male bodybuilders as they experience becoming, and being a bodybuilder. Using a life history approach, the notion of 'process' is opened up by contextualising the participants' bodybuilding biographies in a social, cultural and historical framework. Subjective meanings of constructing and 'being' a hypermuscular male body are considered in relation to indications of empowerment and enselfment as experienced by these men as their bodies develop. In interpreting this data, a range of theories of the body are eclectically drawn upon to inform the process of becoming and being a bodybuilder in terms of its impact on self and social identity.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 61-74 |
| Journal | Ágora: Para la Educación Física y el Deporte |
| Volume | 2-3 |
| Publication status | Published - 2003 |
| Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- Bodybuilding
- Masculinity
- Embodiment