A Comparison Between Men’s Physique Competitors and Bodybuilders From the 1970s

The goal of this post is to compare the muscular development of men’s physique competitors to that of bodybuilders from the Golden Era of Bodybuilding [the 1970s].

The evaluation is based on statistical data taking into account bodyweight, height, body fat estimates and FFMIs [Fat Free Mass Index].

All bodybuilders and men’s physique models are divided into four height categories:

• 5’8”/172.7cm
• 5’9”/175.3cm
• 5’10”/177.8cm
• 6’/182.9-6’2”/188cm

The categories between 6′ and 6’2″ are merged because there wasn’t enough data from the 70s to keep them all separated. In other words, not many bodybuilders are 6’2” tall.

Each segment includes five top-level competitors in every height division. The last column shows the estimated FFMI of each individual at 7% body fat.

Note: It’s impossible to know the exact body fat percentage of everyone, but since they are all exceptionally lean, it’s clear that most are in the single-digit realm. Consequently, a number like 7% is a logical middle-ground that will not produce ultimate accuracy, but the output should be sufficient for overall analysis.

via: pixabay.com

PART 1: Men’s Physique

Height: 5’8”/172.7cm

Height: 5’9”/175.3cm

Height: 5’10”/177.8cm

Height: 6’-6’2” 183-188cm

The legendary Mike Mentzer | via: pinterest.com

PART 2: Bodybuilders

Height: 5’8”/172.7cm

Height: 5’9”/175.3cm

Height: 5’10”/177.8cm

Height: 6’-6’2” 183-188cm

 Final Comparison

In the tables below, you will find a comparison between the average contest weight and FFMI of men’s physique competitors and the 70s bodybuilders representative of the same height category.

Height: 5’8”/172.7cm

Conclusion: The bodybuilders from the Golden Era were roughly 16% bigger than men’s physique competitors in this height category.

Height: 5’9”/175.3cm

Conclusion: The bodybuilders from the Golden Era were roughly 12.8% bigger than men’s physique competitors in this height category.

Height: 5’10”/177.8cm

Conclusion: The bodybuilders from the Golden Era were roughly 15% bigger than men’s physique competitors in this height category.

Height: 6’-6’2” 183-188cm

Conclusion: The bodybuilders from the Golden Era were roughly 7% bigger than men’s physique competitors in this height category.

What Could Explain the Difference in Size?

Three explanations come to mind:

Leg mass. Men’s physique competitors pose in beach shorts hiding their upper leg development. In other words, you don’t get points for having the biggest legs on stage. Meanwhile, in bodybuilding, legs are judged with scrutiny, and if they are not up to the required level, your score suffers.

Does this mean that the men’s physique guys don’t work their legs? No. Many of them not only train legs but have great wheels. Nonetheless, they have a direct incentive to overlook leg development.

Leanness. Many men’s physique competitors get ultra-shredded and reach leaner states than some of the bodybuilders from the 70s. That leanness comes at a price – lighter bodyweight.

Aesthetics. Physique divisions are limited not only by height but by weight too. Consequently, the competitors cannot maximize their weight whereas bodybuilders do not face similar restrictions.