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International Federation of BodyBuilding & Fitness

bodybuilding

The International Federation of Bodybuilding & Fitness (IFBB), founded in 1946, is a global governing body for bodybuilding and fitness. It operates under the International Council of Sport Science and Physical Education, an NGO recognised by UNESCO.

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Sport

Bodybuilding & Fitness

Founded

1946 (75 years ago)

Headquarters

Madrid, Spain

Affiliations

International Council of Sport Science and Physical Education

Summary

The International Federation of Bodybuilding & Fitness (IFBB) was established in 1946 as a governing body for bodybuilding and fitness worldwide. Founded by a group of bodybuilding enthusiasts, the IFBB aims to promote and develop the sport at both amateur and professional levels.

 

The organisation is responsible for setting standards and regulations for bodybuilding competitions, ensuring fairness and integrity in the sport. The IFBB organises various competitions, including national and international championships, which attract athletes from around the globe. One of the most notable events is the Mr Olympia competition, a prestigious title awarded to the top bodybuilder each year.

 

The IFBB operates under the patronage of the International Council of Sport Science and Physical Education (ICSSPE), a non-governmental organisation recognised by UNESCO. This relationship allows the IFBB to collaborate with other sporting bodies and institutions to promote health and fitness through bodybuilding.

 

The federation's structure consists of various national bodybuilding federations, each affiliated with the IFBB. These national federations are responsible for organising local competitions and developing athletes within their regions. The IFBB provides support and guidance to these federations, ensuring they adhere to the federation's rules and standards.

 

In addition to competitions, the IFBB also focuses on education and training. It offers resources and programmes for athletes, coaches, and officials to enhance their knowledge and skills in bodybuilding and fitness. This commitment to education helps promote safe practices and encourages the growth of the sport.

Disciplines

Bodybuilding:

  • Men's Bodybuilding: Formerly known as classic bodybuilding, with World Championships held since 1946.
  • IFBB Men's Bodybuilding Junior World Championships: Conducted from 1976 to 2012.
  • IFBB Men's Bodybuilding Junior & U23 World Championships: Established in 2013.
  • IFBB Masters Men's Bodybuilding World Championships: A competition for experienced athletes.
  • Women's Bodybuilding: World Championships have been held since 1979.
  • IFBB Masters Women's Bodybuilding World Championships: Targeted towards seasoned female competitors.
  • IFBB Women's Bodybuilding Masters World Cup: Another competition for experienced female athletes.

Fitness:

  • Men's Physique: World Championships started in 2012.
  • Women's Physique: A category for female competitors.
  • Classic Physique: A discipline that reflects traditional bodybuilding aesthetics.
  • Body Fitness/Figure: A division focusing on overall physique and aesthetics.
  • Women's Body Fitness: World Championships commenced in 2001.
  • Men's Classic Bodybuilding: A classic style of bodybuilding.
  • Women's Fitness: Focuses on athleticism and physique.
  • Wellness Fitness: A newer category focusing on a specific body type.
  • Women's Wellness Fitness: World Championships have been held since 2016.
  • IFBB Wellness Fitness World Cup: Another platform for competitors in this category.
  • Bikini Fitness: World Championships began in 2010, focusing on a more toned physique.

Mixed Pairs:

IFBB Mixed Pairs World Championships: Established in 1988, featuring male and female competitors working together.

Membership

The International Federation of Bodybuilding & Fitness (IFBB) has five continental associations affiliated with it. These associations play a crucial role in promoting the sport at the continental level. They are responsible for organising continental championships, supporting their member federations, and representing their interests at IFBB Board meetings. The five continental associations are:

  • Asian Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation: Represents member federations from Asian countries and oversees competitions in the region.
  • African Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation: Serves the African nations, promoting bodybuilding and fitness across the continent.
  • European Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation: Focuses on European nations, organising events and competitions for athletes in the region.
  • Oceania Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation: Covers the Oceania region, facilitating competitions and development within member nations.
  • Pan American Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation: Represents countries in North, Central, and South America, overseeing events and activities in this part of the world.
International Federation of BodyBuilding & Fitness image
Abbreviation
IFBB
Established
1946
Type
Sports Federation
Headquarters
Madrid, Spain
Region served
Worldwide
President
Rafael Santonja
Main organ
IFBB Executive Council
Affiliations
International Council of Sport Science and Physical Education, UNESCO
Membership
196 National Federations
Phone
+34 91 535 28 19
Fax
+34 91 535 0320
Social Media
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