There were no female competitors at this year’s Suva Classics Bodybuilding competition.
The event, held over the weekend, featured only male athletes, a result Fiji Bodybuilding acting president Elizabeth Maki described as “disappointing” given the need for more women to participate in the sport.
“I’m all for women, so the more women we have, the better.”
Maki who has been a long-time advocate for women in bodybuilding, said the federation often scouts gyms to identify potential athletes.
She explained that senior bodybuilders and officials approach individuals to encourage them to join the sport.
She said the newly forming Fiji Bodybuilding Federation plans to introduce workshops aimed at educating potential athletes about the discipline and preparation required for competition.
“There’s a lot of discipline that is required, but it’s one of the best. For me personally, I feel it gives you a lot of discipline which is great.”
Maki encouraged women interested in health, fitness and bodybuilding to take up the challenge, noting they can reach out directly for guidance.