IFBB

The International Federation of Bodybuilding and Fitness (IFBB) is the international governing body for bodybuilding, fitness, and related categories. It coordinates and promotes international competitions, sets rules, and supports the development of athletes, coaches, and judges within the sport.

The IFBB was founded in 1946 by brothers Ben and Joe Weider in Montreal. The organization established a standardized framework for competitions, judging, and athlete eligibility with the aim of unifying national efforts to promote bodybuilding and fitness around the world.

Structure and activities locally and internationally include both amateur and professional components. The IFBB oversees national federations and sanctions international events, while the professional arm, known as the IFBB Pro League, conducts professional-level competitions and rankings. The federation also develops rules, judging criteria, and anti-doping policies to maintain integrity across events.

Competitions sanctioned by the IFBB span multiple categories, including bodybuilding for men and women, fitness, figure, bikini, and classic physique, along with age-group divisions such as junior and masters. National federations act as feeders into international events, with qualified athletes competing on the world stage.

The IFBB works with other sports and sport-governing bodies as applicable, and while bodybuilding has a broad global following, it remains separate from the core Olympic program. The federation emphasizes fair judging, athlete welfare, and the promotion of fitness and health through sport.