Insights and perceptions about bodybuilding from competitive bodybuilders: A thematic analysis of YouTube videos

Bodybuilding is a significant area of study in psychology, as body image and self-perceptions are essential to understanding human behaviour and mental processes. This study investigated personal experiences with bodybuilding as shared in YouTube videos. Specifically, the research aimed to explore the insights and perceptions of competitive bodybuilders regarding their practices. Transcripts of five YouTube videos were analysed using thematic analysis, resulting in five key themes: (1) Influenced by social factors, (2) Bodybuilding as a coping mechanism, (3) Taking it to the extreme, (4) High prevalence of steroid use, and (5) Body dissatisfaction. The theme Taking it to the extreme was further divided into two subthemes: Obsession and Do whatever it takes. A narrative linking these themes also emerged from the analysis. The findings revealed that bodybuilding is associated with self-comparisons to idealised body types, exercise addiction, eating disorders, muscle dysmorphia, and steroid use. Future research should explore other social media platforms to examine whether the insights and perceptions of bodybuilders differ from those shared on YouTube.