Human expression is vast and complex in nature. Art forms seeking to tame that complexity create a myriad of mediums for individuals to express emotions through. These expressions are passion in true form and in pursuit of such we can give meaning to life. But when does purpose curate problems? For generations, bodybuilding has been considered both an art form and a sport, however, a recent shift in culture has changed that perception. Bodybuilding in conjunction with the rise of social media has given birth to a new age, and symptomatically, the corruption of mental health. 

Both physically and figuratively , bodybuilding as an artform has been long set in stone.  Memorabilia from Ancient Greece provides a window into what physicality and beauty meant when untouched by modern societal beauty standards. Bodybuilding originated as a display of the beauty gained alongside the balance of the body and the mind. Pioneers of ancient philosophy were often practitioners of bodybuilding as an art form, preaching the maturation of the mind tangential to the self. Growth of culture and history during these periods gave birth to more niche expressions of art in the forms of statues idolizing health and posing which blurs the lines between dancing and still paintings. So where has all of this beauty escaped to in recent years?

Whether due to western forms of media or the materialization of power insecurities, the idolization of muscle is apparent, but perhaps for the wrong reasons. Being “ripped,” massive,” and “shredded” or, “toned yet curvy” gives rise to impossible expectations. With the creation of social media, individuals have access to compare themselves to the constant waves of people fitting the “aesthetic/in shape” mold. While simply admiring someone else’s hard work may seem harmless, if done constantly, it can tax the subconscious mind more than we know. Physiques that take a lifetime of effort, or a lifetime supply of anabolic steroids to create now acting as the standard for many teenagers, it’s no wonder mental health is on the decline. when impossible standards are set while social media perpetuates the need for them to be met. The Nirvana Fallacy highlights this phenomenon beautifully. In pursuit of perfection, progress is overshadowed. Many individuals find this paralyzing because of how social media gives hope to that standard of perfection. Rudimentary thought processes such as “If they can do it so can I” and “If I can do it, I shouldn’t settle for less” not only puts a strain on one’s mental health, but reduces any progress acquired to “not enough”. In reality, health looks different for everyone and the beauty that our bodies create should be appreciated for their diversity, not compared. Ultimately, the shift in body standards within bodybuilding and the problems it poses  need to be questioned. Recognizing the reasons behind damaged mental health with respect to bodybuilding will hopefully catalyze a new era of healthy body standards.

“It is only within the context of having properly developed your mind that you will be able to truly enjoy the achievement of your material values.” - Mike Mentzer

Written by Ethan Patterson, Social Media: Madelyn Jordan