Today, bodybuilding is associated with the INTERNATIONAL FEDERATION OF BODYBUILDERS (IFBB). However, when dr. Ben Weider started with this federation for bodybuilders in 1946, he never dreamed that his initiative would become a worldwide organisation, with 75 million members all over 170 countries.

In spite of this enormous growth, for a long time it remained a difficult task to convince the highest sports authorities that bodybuilding actually had to be considered as a sport.
This goal finally was attained when the IFBB joined the General Association of International Sports Federations and participated in the first World Games in 1981 (Santa Clara - California). This was perhaps a major and last step before entering the Olympic Games!

Belgian Julien Blommaert of Bruges realised the future possibilities of this new sports association when he found, together with his brother Carlos, the Belgian branch of the IFBB all the way back in 1966. that they did the right thing is proven today by thousands of bodybuilders exercising in over 1200 gyms and fitness clubs, all over the country.

IFBB Belgium can be proud, not only of the quantity of its sportsmen, but also of the quality, some even attained international fame! Many times the Belgian colours could be hoisted after victories in international sports events. Many times important meetings and championships took place and even world contests were organized (“Europe”, “World” and even the Mister Olympia!). The main success out of the history of IFBB Belgium however still remains its recognition by the Belgian Olympic and Interfederal Committee (BOIC) and, consequently, its affiliation with this federation (in 1972).

And yet, in spite of all this, prejudices against bodybuilding still exist, mainly caused by ignorance. Therefore, everybody who is interested in, or not-interested in, or maybe opposing this sport is cordially invited to visit an IFBB-gym, so they can see for themselves.