Are you ready to dive into the world of bodybuilding and get inspired by some incredible stories of strength, determination, and perseverance? Look no further than Netflix, where you can find a treasure trove of empowering documentaries that showcase the power of the human spirit.
In this article, we have curated a list of the 15 best bodybuilding documentaries available on Netflix that will leave you feeling motivated and ready to conquer any challenge that comes your way.
From legendary athletes who have pushed their bodies to the limit to everyday individuals who have transformed themselves through sheer dedication and hard work, these documentaries offer a glimpse into the extraordinary world of bodybuilding.
You’ll witness firsthand the sacrifices made, the obstacles overcome, and the triumphs achieved in pursuit of sculpted physiques and peak performance.
Whether you’re an avid gym-goer or simply someone looking for inspiration to kickstart your fitness journey, these films will not only entertain but also ignite a fire within you to strive for greatness.
So grab some popcorn, settle into your couch, and prepare to be captivated by these awe-inspiring tales of physical transformation.
15 Best Bodybuilding Documentaries On Netflix – Empowering Films
If you’re looking for some inspiring and empowering films about bodybuilding, Netflix’s got you covered.
Generation Iron, Pumping Iron, and Dorian Yates – The Original Mass Monster (2019) are just a few of the documentaries available.
They delve into the world of intense training and competition.
These films offer a fascinating glimpse into the dedication, discipline, and determination required to excel in the sport.
1. Generation Iron
Experience the intense world of professional bodybuilding in the gripping documentary ‘Generation Iron.‘ Directed by Vlad Yudin and released in 2013, this film takes you behind the scenes of the Mr. Olympia competition, where top bodybuilders such as Phil Heath, Kai Greene, and Branch Warren train and compete for the coveted title.
With a PG-13 rating for thematic material and brief strong language, ‘Generation Iron’ offers an authentic look into the dedication, sacrifice, and passion required to excel in this demanding sport.
In ‘Generation Iron,’ you’ll witness the physical and mental challenges these athletes face as they push their bodies to the limit. The documentary highlights their rigorous training routines, strict diets, and unwavering determination to achieve their goals. You’ll also gain insight into their personal lives, discovering what drives them to pursue greatness in bodybuilding.
This empowering film not only showcases the incredible athleticism of these bodybuilders but also explores themes of perseverance, discipline, and overcoming obstacles. It will leave you inspired to chase your own dreams and strive for excellence in whatever field you choose.
So buckle up for an adrenaline-fueled journey through the world of professional bodybuilding with ‘Generation Iron.’
Movie Information
- Rating: PG-13 (Thematic Material|Brief Strong Language)
- Genre: Documentary
- Original Language: English
- Director: Vlad Yudin
- Producer: Edwin Mejia, Vlad Yudin
- Writer: Vlad Yudin
- Release Date (Theaters): Sep 20, 2013 (Limited)
- Release Date (Streaming): May 14, 2015
- Box Office (Gross USA): $849.5K
- Runtime: 1 hour 46 minutes
- Distributor: American Media Inc., The Vladar Company
- Production Co: The Vladar Company
2. Pumping Iron
Get ready to delve into the world of professional bodybuilding with ‘Pumping Iron,’ a captivating documentary that takes you back to the 1970s and explores the fierce competition between iconic bodybuilders like Arnold Schwarzenegger, Lou Ferrigno, and Franco Columbu.
This film not only showcases the physical strength and determination of these athletes but also provides a glimpse into their personal lives and the sacrifices they make to achieve greatness.
‘Pumping Iron’ gives you an intimate look at the intense training regimens, strict diets, and unwavering dedication required to become a champion in the world of bodybuilding. You’ll witness Arnold Schwarzenegger’s relentless pursuit of his sixth Mr. Olympia title as he battles against formidable opponents like Lou Ferrigno and Franco Columbu. The film captures their competitive spirit, showcasing their drive to be recognized as the best in their field.
Filled with electrifying moments and inspiring stories, ‘Pumping Iron’ is an empowering film that highlights the power of discipline, perseverance, and self-belief. It will leave you feeling motivated to chase your own goals and push beyond your limits.
So grab some popcorn, sit back, and prepare to be inspired by this legendary documentary that continues to captivate audiences even decades after its release.
Movie Information
- Rating: PG
- Genre: Documentary
- Original Language: English
- Director: George Butler, Robert Fiore
- Producer: Jerome Gary
- Writer: George Butler, Charles Gaines
- Release Date (Theaters): Jan 18, 1977 (Original)
- Release Date (Streaming): Nov 5, 2015
- Runtime: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Production Co: White Mountain Films
- Sound Mix: Mono
3. Dorian Yates – The Original Mass Monster (2019)
Renowned bodybuilder Dorian Yates unveils his journey into becoming the original mass monster in the captivating documentary “Dorian Yates – The Original Mass Monster“(2019).
As you dive into this empowering film, you’ll witness the incredible physical transformation that took place in Yates’ life as he dominated the bodybuilding world with his sheer size and strength. Through exclusive interviews and behind-the-scenes footage, you’ll gain a deep understanding of the intense training regimen and unwavering discipline required to achieve such a remarkable physique.
In “Dorian Yates – The Original Mass Monster,”you’ll be captivated by not only Yates’ physical prowess but also his mental fortitude. This documentary delves into the toll that bodybuilding can take on one’s mental health, highlighting Yates’ own struggles and eventual collapse.
However, it doesn’t stop there. The film takes an unexpected turn as it follows Yates on a spiritual journey in Costa Rica, where he seeks solace and finds a new purpose beyond just sculpting his body. This raw and honest portrayal of Yates’ life will inspire you to push past your limits, face your demons head-on, and find inner strength amidst adversity.
Movie Information
- Genre: Documentary
- Original Language: English
- Director: Vlad Yudin
- Producer: Edwin Mejia Jr., Vlad Yudin
- Release Date (Streaming): Nov 15, 2019
- Runtime: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Production Co: The Vladar Company
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4. Muscle And Medals (2017)
Muscle And Medals (2017) takes viewers on a gripping journey into the world of men’s physique, offering a raw and visceral look at the sacrifices, triumphs, and setbacks faced by athletes as they strive for greatness.
The documentary follows Romane Lanceford as he navigates the highs and lows of competing in the men’s physique division. From grueling training sessions to strict diets and from intense competitions to moments of self-doubt, Muscle And Medals provides an intimate glimpse into what it truly takes to become a champion.
The film captures the dedication and determination required to excel in this highly competitive sport. It showcases the physical and mental challenges that athletes like Romane Lanceford face on their journey towards achieving their goals. Through candid interviews with Lanceford and other competitors, viewers gain insight into their motivations, fears, and aspirations.
Muscle And Medals is not just a documentary about bodybuilding; it is also an empowering film that highlights the resilience and strength of these athletes. It reminds us that success doesn’t come without sacrifice but also emphasizes the importance of passion and perseverance in pursuing one’s dreams.
Whether you’re already a fan of men’s physique or new to this world, Muscle And Medals will leave you inspired by the incredible stories of these athletes who push themselves beyond limits to achieve greatness.
Movie Information
- Genre: Documentary
- Original Language: English (United Kingdom)
- Director: William Gleed
- Runtime: 1 hour 17 minutes
5. Ripped: Inside Women’s Bodybuilding (2017)
Immerse yourself in the captivating world of women’s bodybuilding and witness the incredible strength and determination of these athletes as they break down barriers and redefine what it means to be powerful. In the documentary ‘Ripped: Inside Women’s Bodybuilding,’ director William Gleed takes you on a journey that challenges societal stereotypes and perceptions surrounding women’s involvement in bodybuilding.
With a runtime of 1 hour and 17 minutes, this empowering film offers a comprehensive exploration of the dedication, sacrifices, and victories that shape the journeys of these exceptional women.
As you delve into ‘Ripped: Inside Women’s Bodybuilding,’ you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the physical and mental challenges faced by these athletes. The film sheds light on their intense training regimens, strict diets, and unwavering commitment to pushing their bodies beyond limits. It celebrates their resilience in facing adversity, whether it be societal judgments or gender norms that seek to limit their potential.
Through interviews with inspiring individuals in the industry, this documentary showcases how women’s bodybuilding is not just about physical appearance but also about personal growth, self-empowerment, and overcoming obstacles.
Movie Information
- Language: English (United Kingdom)
- Runtime: 1h 17m
- Genre: Documentary
- Director: William Gleed
6. Iron And Beyond: The Story Of Arnold (2002)
Now that you’ve explored the world of women’s bodybuilding with ‘Ripped: Inside Women’s Bodybuilding,’ get ready to dive into the captivating story of one of the greatest icons in the fitness industry. Brace yourself for an empowering and inspiring journey as we embark on ‘Iron And Beyond: The Story Of Arnold.‘
This 2002 documentary takes you through the remarkable life and career of none other than Arnold Schwarzenegger himself. From his humble beginnings in Austria to his rise as a global superstar, ‘Iron And Beyond’ showcases Arnold’s unwavering determination, resilience, and relentless pursuit of excellence.
As you watch this documentary, you’ll be captivated by the indomitable spirit that propelled him to become a seven-time Mr. Olympia and a Hollywood legend. Through interviews, archival footage, and personal anecdotes, directors George Butler and Robert Fiore provide an intimate glimpse into Arnold’s multifaceted life.
You’ll witness his incredible accomplishments in bodybuilding, his challenges along the way, and the lasting legacy he continues to leave on the world. Prepare to be inspired as you witness firsthand how Arnold overcame obstacles with sheer grit and transformed himself into a true legend.
Movie Information
- Language: English (United States)
- Runtime: Specific runtime not provided
- Genre: Documentary
- Directors: George Butler, Robert Fiore
7. Bigger Stronger Faster (2008)
Prepare to be captivated by the thought-provoking documentary ‘Bigger Stronger Faster,’ which delves into the pervasive use of steroids in sports and explores the American obsession with winning at all costs, like a rollercoaster ride through the dark underbelly of competition.
This film takes you on a journey that exposes the dangerous consequences of our relentless pursuit of victory and questions whether the ends truly justify the means.
Through interviews with politicians, doctors, bodybuilders, and coaches, ‘Bigger Stronger Faster’ raises important ethical dilemmas surrounding performance-enhancing drugs.
The Bell brothers, who are featured in the documentary, embody the belief that steroids will pave their way to achieving their dreams in America.
The film serves as a wake-up call to society’s obsession with success and challenges viewers to question whether sacrificing integrity for glory is really worth it.
This eye-opening documentary sheds light on how our culture’s fixation on winning can lead us to compromise our values.
It sparks an internal debate about what truly matters in sports and encourages us to reevaluate our definition of success.
Get ready for a gripping exploration of the darker side of competition as ‘Bigger Stronger Faster’ uncovers uncomfortable truths about our relentless pursuit of victory.
Movie Information
- Rating: PG-13 (Thematic Material Involving Drugs, Some Sexual Content, Language, Violent Images)
- Genre: Documentary
- Original Language: English
- Director: Chris Bell
- Producer: Alexander Buono, Jim Czarnecki, Dave Wein
- Writer: Chris Bell, Alexander Buono, Tamsin Rawady
- Release Date (Theaters): May 30, 2008 Limited
- Release Date (Streaming): Nov 30, 2016
- Box Office (Gross USA): $307.8K
- Runtime: 1h 45m
- Distributor: Magnolia Pictures
- Production Co: BSF Film
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8. Ronnie Coleman: The King (2018)
Get ready to witness the awe-inspiring journey of Ronnie Coleman, an eight-time Mr. Olympia champion, as he conquers the world of bodybuilding in the captivating documentary ‘Ronnie Coleman: The King’ directed by Vlad Yudin.
This empowering film takes you on a thrilling ride through Ronnie’s life, showcasing his determination, discipline, and unparalleled dedication to his craft.
From his humble beginnings as a police officer to becoming one of the greatest bodybuilders of all time, Ronnie’s story is a testament to the power of hard work and perseverance.
In ‘Ronnie Coleman: The King’, you’ll be taken behind the scenes of Ronnie’s intense training regimen and witness firsthand the grueling challenges he faces in order to maintain his physique at its peak.
Through interviews with Ronnie himself and those closest to him, you’ll gain insight into his mindset and discover what drives him to push beyond his limits. This documentary not only showcases Ronnie’s incredible physical strength but also delves into the mental and emotional toll that bodybuilding takes on him.
As you watch ‘Ronnie Coleman: The King’, prepare to be inspired by this extraordinary individual who defied all odds and became an icon in the world of bodybuilding. By sharing his story, Ronnie reminds us that greatness can be achieved through sheer determination and unwavering commitment. So sit back, relax, and let this empowering film ignite your own passion for achieving your goals.
Movie Information
- Genre: Documentary
- Original Language: English
- Director: Vlad Yudin
- Release Date (Theaters): Jun 22, 2018 Limited
- Release Date (Streaming): Jun 23, 2018
- Runtime: 1h 33m
- Distributor: The Vladar Company
- Production Co: The Vladar Company
9. Stand Tall (1997)
Stand Tall (1997) will take you on an unforgettable journey, immersing you in the world of bodybuilding and inspiring you to push past your limits. This empowering documentary follows the legendary bodybuilder Lou Ferrigno as he makes his comeback to competitive bodybuilding after a 19-year hiatus.
Director Mark Nalley skillfully captures Ferrigno’s arduous training regimen, showcasing the physical and mental challenges he faces on his path to reclaiming his title.
From the opening scene, Stand Tall grips you with its raw intensity and passion. You’ll witness Ferrigno’s unwavering dedication and determination as he pushes himself to the limit in every grueling workout session.
The film delves deep into the world of bodybuilding, offering a glimpse into the sacrifices these athletes make for their art. It sheds light on not only the physical demands but also the mental fortitude required to excel in this sport.
As Stand Tall unfolds, you’ll find yourself rooting for Ferrigno, admiring his resilience and perseverance. His story serves as a powerful reminder that with hard work and unwavering commitment, anything is possible.
This documentary goes beyond just showcasing Ferrigno’s personal journey; it also provides valuable insights into what it takes to achieve greatness in any endeavor.
Movie Information
- Genre: Documentary
- Original Language: English
- Director: Mark Nalley
- Producer: Mark Nalley
- Runtime: 1h 23m
10. The Bodybuilder And I (2007)
Now, let’s move on to another empowering bodybuilding documentary that’ll leave you inspired and moved. We’ve talked about ‘Stand Tall’ from 1997, and now it’s time to delve into ‘The Bodybuilder And I‘ from 2007.
In ‘The Bodybuilder And I,’ director Bryan Friedman takes us on a journey that goes beyond the world of bodybuilding. This documentary beautifully explores themes of family, identity, and personal growth, creating a narrative that resonates deeply with audiences.
Through an honest portrayal of the relationship between the filmmaker and his bodybuilder father, we are invited to reflect on the importance of connections, forgiveness, and the transformative power of shared experiences.
As you watch this film unfold, you’ll be captivated by its emotional depth and the way it intertwines personal stories with the pursuit of physical strength. You’ll witness not only the physical transformation of a bodybuilder but also his emotional growth as he navigates challenges within himself and in his relationships.
‘The Bodybuilder And I’ invites us all to consider how our own journeys intersect with those around us and reminds us of the power of forgiveness and understanding.
Movie Information
- Language: English
- Runtime: Specific runtime not provided
- Genre: Documentary
- Director: Bryan Friedman
11. Man Made (2018)
Delving into the personal narratives of transgender bodybuilders, ‘Man Made‘ challenges societal norms and invites viewers to contemplate the complexities of identity and authenticity in a genre that is often overlooked. Through intimate interviews and candid moments, this empowering documentary sheds light on the unique experiences of transgender individuals within the bodybuilding community.
By showcasing their strength, resilience, and determination to be seen for who they truly are, ‘Man Made’ breaks down barriers and encourages viewers to question preconceived notions.
With its exploration of gender, compassion, and humanity, ‘Man Made’ stands out among other bodybuilding documentaries on Netflix. The film goes beyond showcasing physical transformations by diving deep into the emotional journeys of these transgender bodybuilders. It emphasizes their pursuit of authenticity and empowerment in an industry that often prioritizes traditional ideals of masculinity.
Movie Information
- Directed by T Cooper and produced by Allison Glock-Cooper and Lauren Griswold.
- The documentary captures both the struggles and triumphs faced by its subjects with honesty and sensitivity.
- Released on November 9th, 2019.
- It has a runtime of 1 hour and 33 minutes.
Overall,’Man Made’ offers a powerful exploration of identity within the context of bodybuilding. By shedding light on the personal stories behind the muscles, it challenges societal expectations while celebrating the courage and resilience of those who dare to break barriers.
12. A Skin So Soft (2017)
Imagine being wrapped in soft, supple skin while watching ‘A Skin So Soft,’ a documentary that ironically explores the tough and gritty world of bodybuilding. This captivating film takes you on a journey into the lives of six dedicated bodybuilders as they prepare for their next competition. You’ll witness their intense training regimens, strict diets, and unwavering determination to achieve physical perfection.
Through intimate interviews and behind-the-scenes footage, ‘A Skin So Soft’ delves into the emotional and psychological aspects of the competitive bodybuilding subculture, offering a glimpse into the sacrifices these athletes make to sculpt their bodies.
As you watch this empowering documentary, you’ll be drawn into the raw vulnerability of these bodybuilders. Despite their strong exteriors, they expose their insecurities and fears surrounding body image and societal expectations. The film challenges conventional notions of masculinity by showcasing these men who find solace and empowerment in sculpting their bodies to match their inner ideals. It’s a thought-provoking exploration of self-expression through physicality.
Movie Information
- Genre: Documentary
- Original Language: English
- Director: Denis Côté
- Producer: Joëlle Bertossa, Denis Côté, Jeanne-Marie Poulain, Dounia Sichov
- Writer: Denis Côté
- Release Date (Theaters): June 15, 2018 (Limited)
- Release Date (Streaming): June 19, 2018
13. Kai Greene: A Day In The Life (2012)
So, you’ve just finished watching ‘A Skin So Soft’ and now you’re ready to delve into another captivating bodybuilding documentary. Well, get ready because I have the perfect recommendation for you – ‘Kai Greene: A Day In The Life.’
This documentary takes you on a 22-minute journey into the life of one of the most iconic figures in bodybuilding, Kai Greene.
Now, let’s talk about why this documentary is worth your time. First and foremost, it stars none other than Kai Greene himself. Known for his awe-inspiring physique and incredible dedication to the sport, Kai gives us an intimate look into what it takes to be a professional bodybuilder. From intense training sessions to strict meal plans, he leaves no stone unturned in his quest for excellence.
But what sets ‘Kai Greene: A Day In The Life’ apart from other documentaries is its focus on more than just physical strength. It delves into the mental and emotional aspects of bodybuilding as well. You’ll witness Kai’s struggles and triumphs, his moments of doubt and determination. It’s a raw and honest portrayal that will leave you feeling inspired and motivated to push through your own challenges.
Movie Information
- Starring: Kai Greene
- TV Network: Hulu
- Premiere Date: Unknown (Please verify)
- Genre: Documentary
- Executive Producer: Morgan Spurlock
If you’re craving an empowering film that showcases the grit and determination required to excel in bodybuilding, then ‘Kai Greene: A Day In The Life’ is definitely a must-watch for you!
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14. Born Strong (2017)
‘Born Strong‘ offers a captivating glimpse into the lives of four exceptionally strong men as they compete in the Arnold Strongman Classic, showcasing their incredible physical prowess and determination to be crowned the ultimate champion. The documentary takes you on a thrilling journey, providing a behind-the-scenes look at the intense training regimens, grueling competitions, and personal sacrifices these athletes make in pursuit of their dreams.
From lifting mind-boggling weights to pulling trucks with sheer brute force, you’ll witness jaw-dropping displays of strength that will leave you awe-inspired.
But ‘Born Strong’ is more than just a spectacle of raw power. It delves deep into the minds and hearts of these competitors, revealing their vulnerabilities, fears, and relentless drive to push beyond their limits.
You’ll gain a profound understanding of what it truly means to be strong both physically and mentally. As you watch these men face seemingly insurmountable challenges, you can’t help but feel connected to their struggle and triumphs.
Movie Information
- Rating: TVMA
- Genre: Documentary, Drama
- Original Language: English
- Director: Gary Cohen, Ross Hockrow
- Producers: Niki Usbay McDonald, Matty McDonald
- Release Date (Streaming): July 26, 2020
15. Eddie: Strongman (2015)
Eddie Hall’s incredible journey in ‘Eddie: Strongman‘ showcases the immense physical and mental strength required to achieve greatness, as he pushes himself to the absolute limit in pursuit of his dreams. The documentary takes you on a thrilling ride through Eddie’s life, highlighting not only his impressive feats of strength but also the sacrifices he makes along the way.
As you watch Eddie face seemingly insurmountable challenges, you can’t help but be inspired by his unwavering determination and relentless drive.
In ‘Eddie: Strongman,’ you’ll witness firsthand the sheer power and intensity of strongman competitions. From lifting cars to pulling trucks, Eddie demonstrates what it truly means to push your body to its limits. But this film goes beyond just showcasing physical strength; it delves into Eddie’s personal life, showing his relationships and family dynamics. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of the sacrifices he makes in order to balance his passion with his responsibilities.
Movie Information
- Language: English
- Runtime: Specific runtime not provided
- Genre: Documentary
- Director: Matt Bell
So if you’re looking for a documentary that celebrates resilience, determination, and the indomitable will of athletes like Eddie Hall, ‘Eddie: Strongman’ is a must-watch. It will leave you feeling inspired and in awe of what the human spirit is capable of achieving.
Final Thoughts
So there you have it, folks. The 15 best bodybuilding documentaries on Netflix to inspire and empower you. Who needs a gym membership when you can sit back and watch these incredible transformations from the comfort of your own couch?
Forget sweating it out in the weight room; just grab some popcorn and let these films do all the work for you! But seriously, while these documentaries may not give you the same physical gains as pumping iron, they will definitely give you a mental boost.
They showcase the determination, discipline, and sheer willpower that goes into sculpting a body to its peak potential. So next time you’re feeling unmotivated or ready to throw in the towel at the gym, just remember these films and let them remind you of what’s possible when you put your mind to it.
In conclusion, whether you’re a seasoned bodybuilder or someone looking for some inspiration to kickstart your fitness journey, these documentaries are a must-watch. And hey, even if bodybuilding isn’t your thing, they still make for some damn good entertainment.
So go ahead and press play on one of these empowering films – who knows, it might just be the push you need to achieve greatness!
