ABSTRACT
In this chapter, the authors focus on areas of psychopathology commonly encountered in weightlifters, but it must be emphasized that our aim is not to pathologize weightlifting as a whole. The practice of weightlifting has existed with notable references found in ancient Roman literature, and in writings of the ancient Greeks. The popularity of weightlifting appears to have been driven by growing societal focus on muscularity and strength. With the increased popularity of weightlifting in the twentieth century, several more specific disciplines have evolved. These are: powerlifting; Olympic lifting; strongman competitions; and bodybuilding. Weightlifting, strongman, and bodybuilding are primarily individual sports, as individuals are generally competing for themselves. One of the most distinctive psychological features of weightlifting is the use of appearance- and performance-enhancing drugs. Although some of the psychological issues are particularly prevalent in male weightlifters, they may all affect female weightlifters as well. The problems include body-image disorders, eating disorders, exercise dependence disorders, and especially substance abuse disorders.
