BodyBuilding 101

While a number of impressive bodybuilding champions have emerged over the years, none are as physically accomplished as competitive lifters. These athletes focus on building up muscle by making sacrifices in their diet and daily routine, resulting in a physique that is both impressive and reflects their perseverance throughout the process. Some of the most impressive champions in recent years include:

Dexter Jackson
Known as “The Blade”, Jackson won the 2008 Mr. Olympia competition after beginning his professional career in 1999 at the Arnold Classic. A competitive lifter for nearly 2 decades, Jackson turned pro just this decade and rose steadily to become a world-class athlete. At his first professional content, Jackson placed in the top 10 and won an upset over Jay Cutler to win last year’s Mr. Olympia.

Ronnie Coleman
One of the all-time greats in modern bodybuilding, Ronnie Coleman won seven straight Mr. Olympia competitions from 1998 to 2005. Outside of the competition, Coleman has 19 professional wins and is known for his tremendous work ethic. An accountant by training, Coleman worked as a police officer after playing football at Grambling State. He retired in 2005 after a 15 year career that begin with a Mr. Texas title and ended with his final Olympia title.

Jay Cutler
Working in construction and criminal justice, Cutler began to take professional bodybuilding seriously in 2000, and won the IFBB Night of Champions competition. During his school years, Cutler won the 1993 NPC Iron Body Invitational, and returned to competitions after beginning his career. After placing 1st at the Arnold Classic in 2002, Cutler retired in 2007 after winning Mr. Olympia.