Muscular Power and Beauty

A remarkable early book on bodybuilding and male physique, Muscular Power and Beauty was originally published in 1906. Bernarr Macfadden (1868 - 1955) was an exponent of classic Apollo and Hercules body ideals, and his book gives exercises for many different muscle groups to achieve this. Remarkably, many of the photos of MacFadden are nude (although not full frontal or full rear views) side views, and this must have been considered a fairly risque publication for its time. Many closeup photos of arms, chest, legs, etc. show the exercises and the development that MacFadden achieved.

Internationally famous during his lifetime but almost unknown today, called the "Father of Physical Culture," nicknamed "Body Love" by Time magazine, MacFadden was a flamboyant personality, millionaire publisher, and life-long advocate of physical fitness, natural food, outdoor exercise, and the natural treatment of disease. He inspired millions of people around the world to live healthful and vigorous lives. He was branded a "kook" and a charlatan by many, was arrested on obscenity charges, denounced by the medical establishment, and campaigned tirelessly against "pill-pushers," processed foods, and prudery.