Lisa Lyons helped pioneer the sport of bodybuilding for women.
Women’s bodybuilding legend Lisa Lyon is in “grave condition” with pancreatic cancer, according to a report from TMZ. Lyon made waves as both a bodybuilder and model during her successful career that spanned across four decades.
TMZ reports that Lyon was transferred to hospice care in Los Angeles’ San Fernando Valley.
Lyon found a great passion for fitness at a young age and sculpted an impressive physique. This led her to pursue a career in bodybuilding. During her career, Lyon was crowned the IFBB’s first female champion. She also became the second bodybuilder ever to appear in Playboy magazine.
Lyon was inducted into the IFBB Hall of Fame in 2000 for the work she did growing the sport of bodybuilding.
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The Career Of Lisa Lyon
Lisa Lyon first competed at the IFBB level in 1979 during the Women’s World Pro Bodybuilding Championships in Los Angeles. She won gold and became the IFBB’s first women’s champion. After making a name for herself in bodybuilding, Lyon gained plenty of attention because of her physique.
This is when Playboy invited her to appear in the magazine. Lyon would be part of the October issue in 1980. She continued to share her knowledge and passion for fitness in many ways over the next few years. This includes publishing a book in 1981 entitled “Lisa Lyon’s Body Magic.”
Lisa Lyon had the chance toward with many big-name photographers during her time as a model. These names include Robert Mapplethorpe, Joel-Peter Within, and Helmut Newton.
Arnold Schwarzenegger sits on the shoulders of bodybuilder and future model in Playboy magazine Lisa Lyon . USA , 1979 pic.twitter.com/O1Wsr7gngj
— DrPopCulture (@DrPopCultureUSA) July 31, 2023
The sport of bodybuilding has allowed many athletes to land roles on the big screen because of their impressive physiques. Lyon was part of this as she appeared in Three Crowns of the Sailor (1983), Getting Physical (1984), and Vamp (1986).
Arnold Schwarzenegger is considered the greatest bodybuilder of all-time and also enjoyed a successful career on the big screen. He knew Lyon from their time on stage and commented to TMZ about the bodybuilding legend.
“She is the best. I love her.”
Lisa Lyon made a huge difference in the sport of bodybuilding back in the 70s and her legacy is still well-known today. Generation Iron wishes Lyon and her family the best during this time.
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