Thursday, October 23, 2008

Inside Bodybuilding ...Past and Present (Part 2)

By Mick Hart

Things have never changed regarding the hard core elite and probably never will do when it comes to pumping hard and showing off their bits with the hope of entering and winning competitions, although I refer to them as trophy hunters. The basis of their training though is solely influenced by the rising standards of accepted muscular perfection which are expected at these international physique competitions.

Physique contests DECIDE and DICTATE bodybuilding and bodybuilders hopes and inspirations. Physique fashions, muscles a la mode, like a pebble in a pond radiate outwards and reach all who train with weights. If the winner of Mr O. or Mr U. is big and bulky, or cut to shreds, vascular or hyper pumped, then that is the bench mark for all gym rats who train for muscle by lifting weights.

So we have seen just why such contests are so important to set high standards in the bodybuilding world so now let's have a look at the judges themselves and the criteria they employ to reach the necessary goals required to keep the ball rolling.

Judging is crucial in this sport so who governs the judges and tells them what to be looking for? Is there an existing standard to become a judge and what exams do they have to take? I was amazed one day while watching an international contest when a judge sat in front of me turned round and asked me what the number was on the competitors shorts. It makes you think that with such a responsibility they should at least be able to see properly.

Apart from sight problems though, there are still problems with international judges who may be suffering from jet lag which has lead to some extremely controversial decisions being made in the past. Fortunately there are very sophisticated scoring systems now in place which help the prevention of individual judges making stupid decisions.

Like football refs, PC. judging is not a route to popularity, and special favors would soon be discovered by astute fans. Sure it is nice to have expenses covered (and why not) to be at the heart of things. For retired bodybuilders to stay in touch with the game. But dropping for an instant my cynicism, my belief is most judges are genuine lovers of the game, and simply want to contribute or repay a sport they have spent most of their lives contributing or participating.

For those who compete, the importance of judges decisions can be vital to that person's goals in life itself. Russ Warner famous photographer, said judges "Can send you home a hero, or cast you empty headed into anonymity alley. Rick Wayne legendary Weider writer, once said. "Judges have to be purists, nothing personal, no biases or outside knowledge of the competitors life can enter into it."

These though are only a couple of personal decisions. Charisma and reputation always play an important part in our human subconscious minds and subsequently the decisions we have to make. Beauty certainly is "in the eye of the beholder." Although we are talking about doctors, lawyers, teachers and practicing and retired bodybuilders, judges are just human beings and therefore have to be open to criticism regarding their own qualifications and decisions. (Coming Soon Part 3) - 15266

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