Anne Probert

Citation

Thesis Title
Competitive Bodybuilders and identity: Insights from New Zealand

Read article at Massey Research Online:

Ms Probert challenged the notion that bodybuilders are a homogeneous group of people. Using a mixed method approach and based on New Zealand competitive bodybuilders’ experiences, her findings highlighted how and why people become involved in competitive bodybuilding ; what it means to them and how it relates to their lives. While competitive bodybuilding was important to the participants and through it they experienced a physical transformation, bodybuilding was also socially and mentally challenging. More than a sport, competitive bodybuilding was a lifestyle, enabling participants to keep in great shape and contributing to their personal development. Although there were commonalities, participant meanings and motivations varied on the basis of their gender, age, ethnicity, involvement in the sport and social situation. Being a competitive bodybuilder often had a profound affect on the lives of participants and continued to influence their identities even after they had given up the sport

Supervisors
Professor Sarah Leberman
Dr Farah Palmer