Joe Weider is a bodybuilder and fitness writer considered to be one of the founding fathers of the sport and a significant contributor to its popularity. Weider has engaged in a variety of pursuits within bodybuilding, including supplementation, publishing and competition.
Early Years
Joe Weider was born Nov., 29, 1922, in Montreal. Weider and his younger brother, Ben, initially pursued weightlifting to protect themselves from bullies in their neighborhood. The Weiders first trained with barbells made from junkyard parts.
Your Physique Magazine
In 1939, Weider began publishing "Your Physique" magazine. Weider launched the magazine with a $7 budget and invited readers of "Strength & Health" magazine and Montreal strongman competitors to subscribe to the magazine.
Weider Barbell Company
In 1942, Weider launched the Weider Barbell Company, a mail-order exercise equipment service, with his brother Ben. This helped increase the popularity of weightlifting and bodybuilding, and, by 1946, there was enough interest present for Weider to found the Mr. Canada contest.
Publishing Success and Problems
Weider moved to New York and, by 1952, had a total circulation of 25 million readers for his 20 fitness publications. However, Weider's distribution company collapsed soon after, and Weider focused on "Your Physique," which he renamed "Muscle Builder" in 1968.
Mr. Olympia and Arnold
Weider and his brother founded the Mr. Olympia contest in 1965 to help bodybuilding gain a mainstream following. Four years later, the Weiders moved bodybuilder Arnold Schwarzenegger to California so he could train and write about his experiences in "Muscle Builder." Scwharzenegger also extolled the benefits of Weider's supplements.
Weider Nutrition
Arnold Schwarzenegger's writing helped pique interest in nutritional supplements. Weider launched Weider Nutrition International in 1989, and, eight years later, the company was listed on the New York Stock Exchange. As of 2011, Weider Nutrition produces products available in 120 countries.
Hall of Fame Foundation and American Media Acquisition
Weider founded the Bodybuilding Hall of Fame in 1999. Four years later, American Media acquired Weider Publications, which produces fitness periodicals such as "Shape," "Flex" and "Muscle & Fitness" (formerly "Muscle Builder").
Member Comments