Bodybuilding at an Early AgeWhen looking at athletes such as bodybuilders, one must wonder how one achieves such a monstrous physique. It is this curiosity that allows humans to achieve such massive muscle gains by lifting heavy weights such as enormous 220-pound boulders or pulling 747 airplanes. Only as we get older can we understand that achieving a gigantic physique requires certain characteristics that one must acquire. Bodybuilding builds the character of those who participate from a young age by developing focus, discipline and dedication that continues into adulthood. The ancient Greeks were the first athletes to train in gymnasiums for competition. “Olympic wrestling champion Milo of Croton is said to have carried a calf on his back every day until it grew into a bull, demonstrating progressive resistance as a means of developing strength” (Hayward). Even though these athletes trained and competed in the Olympics, they were not training for a muscular appearance but rather for performance. By the mid-19th century, bodybuilding became a “means of improving health and increasing strength” (Hayward). These athletes would entertain large crowds by "lifting and pushing huge weights" and were considered only entertainers until a man known as Eugene Sandow changed the image of bodybuilding forever. The bodybuilder named Friedrich Muller, born in 1867 in Prussia, is also known. like Eugene Sandow who later became known as "the father of modern bodybuilding" (Hayward). Bodybuilding hasn't been around forever. In fact, Eugene Sandow was one of the first athletes to flaunt his muscular physique. He was also the first to "organize a bodybuilding competition at the Royal Albert H...... middle of paper ...... those who participate from a young age developing concentration, discipline and dedication that carries into adulthood. Proper nutrition, exercise, attitude and discipline drive bodybuilders to achieve their massive gains. They achieve success by maintaining their routines, diet, positive attitudes, and hardworking personality. “The resistance you fight physically in the gym and the resistance you fight in life can only build strong character” (Schwarzenegger). These athletes understand the sacrifice required to be the best. The many attributes learned during training not only help these athletes build muscle mass, but also allow them to grow as a person. Bodybuilding is not a sport or activity for everyone. Even the most disciplined athletes face the internal turmoil and doubts found in and out of the gym. Do you think you have what it takes?