Level of satisfaction with body image and muscle appearance in bodybuilders - doi: 10.4025/reveducfis.v21i3.7722

Abstract

The objective of the present study was to analyze the level of satisfaction of male bodybuilders regarding their body image and muscle appearance, as well as detect the possible presence of muscle dysmorphia. The study was characterized as descriptive, and described as a field study. The sample was composed of 50 males, between 18 and 43 years of age, all of whom lifted weights at the gym of the Center for Excellence in Physical Activity (CEAF) at the State University of Maringá (UEM). The measurement tools used were the Muscle Appearance Satisfaction Scale (MASS), adapted and validated in Brazil by Silva Junior, Souza and Silva (2008), and the Body Image Satisfaction Evaluation Scale, adapted and validated in Brazil by Ferreira e Leite (2002). Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics. The results showed that, regarding muscle appearance, the general average score of the subjects was 42,98 points, which qualifies them as “satisfied most of the time with their muscle appearance”. Regarding body image, the general average score of the subjects was 86,26 points, which qualifies them as “sometimes satisfied, sometimes dissatisfied with their body image”. Nevertheless, the possible occurrence of muscle dysmorphia cannot be discarded.