Bodybuilding

10 Biggest Female Bodybuilders Who Ever Walked the Earth

Published

3 years ago

January 29, 2022

Paul

Women are naturally endowed with smaller muscles, so we get fascinated when we see them killing it at the gym. Female athletes have been involving themselves in bodybuilding for decades. Some have even proven to be better than most men. Gone are the days when male bodybuilding overshadowed female bodybuilding, women are now giving men a run for their money as far as bodybuilding is concerned. Female bodybuilding took shape in the 70s and has continued to weather all stems and become better. We have prepared for you a list of the biggest bodybuilders in history who are also the greatest in the world of female bodybuilding.

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Roxie Beckles

She comes first on our list not only because she’s a mammoth of a female but also because she achieved a lot in her professional female bodybuilding career. She won Team Universe National Championship in 2013, launching her career as a respected bodybuilder and coach. Roxie’s physique turns heads around, indicating that the time spent in the gym is paying off with amazing body results. Despite her massive muscles and physique, Roxie is a humble soul who has contributed immensely to the growth of the fitness and bodybuilding industry. She has partnered with the New York Road Runners Foundation to coach kids in the organization’s fitness programs. Most importantly, she’s come up with amazing programs such as weight loss, flexibility, and core strengthening to help those struggling in bodybuilding.

Roxie Beckles - #instagram

Lenda Murray

Lenda Murray is a huge name in the bodybuilding industry and you must have heard about her at some point if you love this sport. Those who know her remember she dominated most female bodybuilding events in the 90s. In fact, she defended her titles and went unbeaten for five years (1990-1995). She would come second in the Ms. Olympia title in 1996 and 1997.

Lenda Murray - #instagram

Murray would later compete in the same event in 2002 where she clinched the title and defended it the following year. Her dark muscular body was unparalleled and many female bodybuilders dreaded standing next to her in shows. Lenda Murray was inducted into the IFBB hall of fame in 2010, just six years after retiring from active bodybuilding.

Joan Marie Laurer (Chyna)

This American fitness queen is considered one of the biggest bodybuilders that ever existed. She caught the attention of the public in 1997 when she participated in a World Wrestling Federation (WWF) promotion. The bodybuilder’s star continued rising as she took part in various bodybuilding shows such as the New Japan Pro Wrestling in 2002 and Total Nonstop Wrestling held in 2011. Chyna is also an entertainment celebrity and has appeared in several magazines, TV shows, and other live events.

Joan Marie Laurer (Chyna) - #Twitter

Additionally, she has been featured in a couple of films, thanks to her massive, well-chiseled body. The athlete continues to be a role model to many upcoming bodybuilders and fighters all over the world. Truly, whoever referred to her as the ‘ninth wonder of the world’ had every reason to coin it.

Iris Kyle

Iris Kyle is another decorated bodybuilder with many titles to her name. She came second to the Ms. Olympia title in 2001, 2004, and 2006-2014. She won the title of IFBB Ms. International in 2004, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2010, 2011, and 2013. Very few bodybuilders have achieved such a fete given the competitive nature of the sport. Iris Kyle has Lenda Murray for an amazing bodybuilding career since she got inspiration from her. It is Murray’s achievements that made Iris change her career path from basketball and softball to bodybuilding.

Iris Kyle - #instagram

She started it at a very young age, and thus had all the time to build an enviable physique. Iris’s first win was in 1994 when she won the Long Beach Muscle Classic title.

Lisa Marie Varon

Lisa is nicknamed ‘the legend of extreme female bodybuilding’ and goes by the ring name Victoria. She won the title of WWE Women’s Champion twice as well as many other titles.

Follow her on - #instagram

Although Lisa studied biology and medicine, she decided to pursue bodybuilding where she became the women’s champion a record seven times and a Total Nonstop Action Wrestling title once. Like many other great bodybuilders, Lisa had a role model who happened to be Joan Marie Laurer. She followed in her footsteps from a young age and went on to become like her idol.

Kim Chisevsky

Chisevsky is a perfect example of how hard work and determination can transform someone. She was once the laugh of town due to her chubby body. However, she ignored all the negativity and kept working on her physique.

Follow her on - #instagram

Long story short, Chisevsky is currently one of the most ripped female bodybuilders with a body to die for. Considered one of the biggest bodybuilders of her time, she contested and won Ms. Olympia on multiple occasions (1996-1999). Her physique may have undergone some changes since she is now in her 50s and a mother of two, but she is still looking as fit as ever.

Nancy Lewis

Nancy Lewis is an American female bodybuilder with a rich history in the world of bodybuilding. She was active between 1992 and 1998 where she won numerous awards and owners. However, her career kicked off during the 1991 NPC USA Championship where she won the contest and earned her pro card. Lewis took a break from active bodybuilding for four years and came back stronger than ever. She would proceed to win the Jana Tana Classic Title in 2002 which capped her successful bodybuilding career.

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Andrea Shaw

The 2020 Ms. Olympia winner has many other titles to her name including the winner of:

IFBB Omaha Pro.
IFBB WOS Rising Phoenix World Championships.

Follow her on - #Instagram

Andrea Shaw’s career path has always been geared towards bodybuilding from when she was young. For instance, she participated in competitive cheer and gymnastics as a child. Her mother who was a fitness trainer greatly influenced her decision to choose fitness as a career. She would also draw inspiration from established female bodybuilders whose pictures she admired in magazines. She started doing professional bodybuilding at the age of 17 and went on to become one of the greatest.

Nikki Fuller

Nikki Fuller was naturally born strong and she decided to put that strength into good use. Consequently, she started bodybuilding at a very young age, something that prepared her body adequately for the tasks ahead. Considered one of the biggest bodybuilders in history, Fuller’s biceps measured an impressive 457 mm at the peak of her career. She also weighed around 90 kgs at that time, making her a moving mass of muscle.

Follow her on - #instagram

Despite her unique physique, Fuller did not win a title for Ms. Olympia or Ms. International until 1998 when she won the Novice Oregon. However, she finished among the top 10 for both contests in 1992. Nikki Fuller also participated in bodybuilding modeling and got featured in several women’s magazines. Most importantly, she was always included in the list of top female bodybuilders, mostly appearing in the top 10.

Yaxeni Oriquen

Yaxeni Oriquen is a Venezuelan professional bodybuilder who moved to the United States to pursue a career in bodybuilding. Her first major title was a Ms. Olympia, which she won in 2005, more than fifteen years after launching a professional career.

Follow her on - #instagram

Her bodybuilding career which started in 1989 has been slow but sure. On top of her Ms. Olympia title, Yaxeni has also won Ms. International five times. Also considered one of the most jacked-up bodybuilders of her time, Oriquen has now shifted her focus to fitness coaching. She has a modern gym where she trains aspiring bodybuilders and other fitness clients.

Overall

Female bodybuilding is still in its infancy compared to the more established and famous male bodybuilding. However, there are hundreds of female bodybuilders who have set the pace and shown that women can also make it in this field dominated by men. Moreover, women have to work harder than their male counterparts who are naturally muscular to come out of their shadows. Most female bodybuilders discussed in this article can be found on Instagram and YouTube. Search their channel and follow them for regular motivation. Follow our blog for more inspirational articles and get access to quality bodybuilding drugs and supplements.

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Bodybuilding

Mastering Bodybuilding in 2025: Top Fitness Tips for Success

Published

4 weeks ago

March 1, 2025

Sane

Bodybuilding is more than just a sport; it's a lifestyle that requires dedication, discipline, and a thorough understanding of fitness principles. As the world of fitness continues to evolve, bodybuilders must stay updated with the latest trends, techniques, and scientific advancements to achieve their goals. In 2025, several innovative approaches are redefining bodybuilding. Here are essential fitness tips for bodybuilders to excel this year.

Embrace Technology-Driven Workouts

In 2025, technology plays a significant role in bodybuilding. Wearable devices, fitness apps, and virtual reality (VR) training are now integral components of an effective workout regimen.

Wearable Devices

Modern wearables track everything from heart rate and sleep patterns to muscle activation and caloric expenditure. Utilize these devices to monitor your progress and make data-driven adjustments to your training and nutrition plans.

Fitness Apps

Leverage fitness apps for customized workout plans, progress tracking, and virtual coaching. Many apps now incorporate artificial intelligence to provide personalized feedback and recommendations.

Virtual Reality Training

VR technology offers immersive workout experiences, allowing bodybuilders to simulate different training environments and scenarios. This can enhance motivation and add variety to your routine.

Focus on Functional Strength

While hypertrophy (muscle growth) remains a primary goal, functional strength is gaining importance. Functional strength training improves overall performance, reduces the risk of injury, and enhances daily activities.

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Compound Movements

Incorporate compound exercises like squats, deadlifts, and bench presses. These movements engage multiple muscle groups and joints, promoting balanced strength development.

Core Stability

Prioritize exercises that strengthen the core, such as planks, Russian twists, and leg raises. A strong core supports better lifting mechanics and reduces the risk of lower back injuries.

Optimize Nutrition for Muscle Growth and Recovery

Nutrition is the cornerstone of successful bodybuilding. In 2025, the focus is on personalized nutrition plans tailored to individual needs and goals.

Protein Intake

Ensure adequate protein intake to support muscle repair and growth. Aim for 1.6 to 2.2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight per day, depending on your training intensity and goals.

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Nutrient Timing

Pay attention to nutrient timing to maximize muscle recovery and growth. Consume protein and carbohydrates within 30 minutes post-workout to replenish glycogen stores and kickstart muscle repair.

Supplements

Utilize supplements wisely. Creatine, branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), and omega-3 fatty acids are popular choices for enhancing performance and recovery.

Prioritize Mental Health and Mindfulness

Mental health is increasingly recognized as a critical component of overall fitness. Incorporating mindfulness practices can improve focus, reduce stress, and enhance performance.

Meditation

Incorporate meditation into your daily routine to reduce stress and improve mental clarity. Mindfulness meditation can enhance your mind-muscle connection during workouts.

Visualization

Use visualization techniques to mentally rehearse your workouts. Visualizing successful lifts and achieving your goals can boost confidence and motivation.

Rest and Recovery

Prioritize rest and recovery to prevent burnout and overtraining. Ensure you get 7-9 hours of sleep per night and incorporate rest days into your training schedule.

Leverage Advanced Training Techniques

Advanced training techniques can help break through plateaus and stimulate muscle growth. In 2025, several methods are gaining popularity among bodybuilders.

Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) Training: BFR involves restricting blood flow to the muscles during low-intensity exercises. This technique can enhance muscle growth and strength without the need for heavy weights.

Eccentric Training: Focus on the eccentric (lowering) phase of exercises. Eccentric training can stimulate greater muscle damage and growth compared to traditional concentric movements.

Periodization: Implement periodization into your training plan. Varying the intensity, volume, and type of exercises can prevent plateaus and ensure continuous progress.

Incorporate Recovery and Mobility Work

Recovery and mobility are essential for preventing injuries and maintaining optimal performance. In 2025, bodybuilders are paying more attention to these aspects of training.

Foam Rolling and Myofascial Release: Use foam rollers and massage balls to release muscle tightness and improve flexibility. Regular myofascial release can reduce soreness and enhance recovery.

Stretching: Incorporate dynamic stretching before workouts and static stretching after workouts. Stretching improves range of motion and prevents muscle imbalances.

Cryotherapy and Hydrotherapy: Explore recovery techniques like cryotherapy (cold therapy) and hydrotherapy (water therapy) to reduce inflammation and accelerate muscle recovery.

Engage in Continuous Learning and Community Building

The fitness industry is constantly evolving, and staying informed is crucial for success. Engage in continuous learning and connect with the bodybuilding community for support and motivation.

Educational Resources: Read books, watch videos, and attend seminars to stay updated on the latest research and trends in bodybuilding.

Community Engagement: Join online forums, social media groups, and local bodybuilding clubs. Sharing experiences and knowledge with fellow bodybuilders can provide valuable insights and encouragement.

Professional Guidance: Consider working with a certified personal trainer or coach. Professional guidance can help you optimize your training and nutrition plans, ensuring you're on the right track.

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Conclusion

In 2025, bodybuilding is more than just lifting weights; it's a holistic approach to fitness that encompasses technology, nutrition, mental health, and advanced training techniques. By embracing these fitness tips, bodybuilders can achieve their goals, stay injury-free, and enjoy a fulfilling fitness journey. Remember, consistency and dedication are key to success in bodybuilding. Stay committed, keep learning, and most importantly, have fun on your path to becoming the best version of yourself.

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Bodybuilding

2nd Edition of Natural Bodybuilding Competition Facts

Published

7 months ago

September 5, 2024

Zizou

Natural bodybuilding competitions are designed to promote and celebrate athletes who build their physiques without the use of performance-enhancing drugs. These events emphasize fair play, health, and the natural development of muscle mass and definition.

The second edition of natural bodybuilding competitions has gained momentum globally, particularly focusing on drug-free athletes. These competitions are hosted by various organizations like the INBA/PNBA (International Natural Bodybuilding Association/Professional Natural Bodybuilding Association) and OCB (Organization of Competitive Bodybuilders).

In 2024, several notable events have been planned, including the INBA Natural Universe and INBA World Cup, both of which emphasize natural bodybuilding through rigorous drug testing policies. These events aim to showcase competitors who adhere to strict drug-free protocols, and winners often earn pro cards allowing them to compete in higher-level professional competitions.

These competitions focus on categories like men's bodybuilding, classic physique, and women's figure and bikini, among others. Athletes undergo polygraph and urine tests to ensure compliance with natural bodybuilding standards. The winners often receive medals, trophies, or pro status

Drug Testing

Participants undergo rigorous drug testing to ensure they are not using banned substances. This can include urine tests, polygraph tests, and other methods to maintain the integrity of the competition.

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Judging Criteria

Athletes are judged based on several factors, including:

Muscle Mass: The size and volume of muscles.
Symmetry: The balance and proportion of the physique.
Conditioning: The level of muscle definition and leanness.
Presentation: Posing routines and overall stage presence.

Preparation

Competitors often spend months preparing for these events, focusing on strict diet plans, intense workout regimens, and posing practice. The goal is to achieve peak physical condition on the day of the competition.

Community and Support

Natural bodybuilding competitions foster a sense of community among athletes who share a commitment to health and fitness. Many competitors form lasting friendships and support networks through these events.

Starting training for a natural bodybuilding competition is an exciting journey! Here are some key steps to help you get started:

1. Set Clear Goals

Define what you want to achieve. Are you aiming to compete in a specific category like Men’s Physique or Women’s Figure? Setting clear goals will guide your training and nutrition plans.

2. Create a Training Plan

Focus on a well-rounded training program that includes:

Compound Movements: Exercises like squats, deadlifts, bench presses, and pull-ups are essential for building overall muscle mass.
Isolation Exercises: Target specific muscles to enhance definition and symmetry.
Progressive Overload: Gradually increase the weight or reps to continuously challenge your muscles.

3. Follow a Structured Diet

Nutrition is crucial for muscle growth and fat loss:

Caloric Intake: Calculate your daily caloric needs based on your goals (bulking or cutting).
Macronutrients: Balance your intake of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. Aim for high protein to support muscle repair and growth.
Micronutrients: Ensure you’re getting enough vitamins and minerals to support overall health.

4. Incorporate Cardio

Cardio helps with fat loss and improves cardiovascular health. Include both steady-state and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) sessions in your routine.

5. Practice Posing

Posing is a critical aspect of bodybuilding competitions. Practice regularly to perfect your form and presentation on stage.

6. Rest and Recovery

Allow your body to recover with adequate sleep and rest days. Overtraining can lead to injuries and hinder progress.

7. Stay Consistent and Patient

Building a competition-ready physique takes time and dedication. Stay consistent with your training and diet, and be patient with your progress.

8. Seek Professional Guidance

Consider working with a coach or trainer who specializes in natural bodybuilding. They can provide personalized advice and help you stay on track.

9. Join a Community

Engage with other natural bodybuilders for support and motivation. Online forums, social media groups, and local gyms can be great places to connect.

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Qualifications

The qualifications for natural bodybuilding competitions vary slightly between organizations but generally follow these principles:

Drug-Free Status: Athletes must demonstrate they have been drug-free for a specific period, typically between 5 to 10 years. They are required to pass a drug test, usually through urine samples or polygraph tests, to prove they haven't used banned substances like steroids, hormones, or other performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs).

Membership Requirements: Competitors often need to be members of the organizing federation. For example, in the World Natural Bodybuilding Federation (WNBF), athletes must have a valid WNBF membership to compete.

Amateur and Pro Divisions: Most competitions have both amateur and professional divisions. To qualify for a pro division, an athlete must first win an amateur event or obtain a “pro card” by performing exceptionally in a recognized event.

Age and Gender Categories: Athletes are categorized by age and gender. Categories typically include juniors (under 23), open divisions, masters (over 40), and grandmasters (over 50).

Entry and Registration: Competitors must pay an entry fee and complete registration. For certain competitions, a pre-qualification based on past performance may be required.

Distinction Between Natural and Steroid-Based Bodybuilding

The main differences between natural and steroid-based bodybuilding revolve around the methods used to build muscle and the resulting impacts on the body. Here are some key distinctions:

Natural Bodybuilding

Muscle Growth: Achieved through consistent weight training, proper nutrition, and adequate rest. Muscle growth is gradual and sustainable.
Health: Generally safer with fewer side effects. Promotes overall health, including better cardiovascular health, improved metabolism, and increased bone density.
Appearance: Natural bodybuilders tend to have a more balanced and proportionate physique. Muscle definition is less extreme compared to steroid users.
Recovery: Recovery times are longer, requiring more rest between intense workouts.
Competitions: Natural bodybuilding competitions often have strict drug-testing policies to ensure participants are not using performance-enhancing drugs.

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Steroid-Based Bodybuilding

Muscle Growth: Steroids significantly accelerate muscle growth and strength gains. Results are more dramatic and achieved in a shorter time.
Health Risks: Steroid use can lead to serious health issues, including liver damage, cardiovascular problems, hormonal imbalances, and psychological effects like mood swings.
Appearance: Steroid users often have a more “enhanced” look with larger muscle mass, visible veins, and extreme muscle definition, even in the off-season.
Recovery: Faster recovery times due to the anti-inflammatory effects of steroids, allowing for more frequent and intense training sessions.
Side Effects: Visible side effects can include acne, hair loss, gynecomastia (development of breast tissue in men), and changes in secondary sexual characteristics.

Choosing Between the Two

Natural Bodybuilding: Ideal for those who prioritize long-term health, sustainable muscle growth, and a balanced lifestyle.
Steroid-Based Bodybuilding: Often chosen by those seeking rapid and extreme muscle gains, but it comes with significant health risks and ethical considerations.

Take Away

The main advantage of participating in natural bodybuilding events is the emphasis on health and sustainability. Natural bodybuilding promotes muscle growth through consistent training, proper nutrition, and adequate rest, leading to gradual and sustainable results. This approach minimizes health risks associated with performance-enhancing drugs, such as liver damage and cardiovascular issues. Additionally, natural bodybuilding fosters a balanced and proportionate physique, and the strict drug-testing policies in competitions ensure a fair and level playing field for all participants. This focus on overall well-being and ethical competition makes natural bodybuilding a healthier and more sustainable choice.

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