Lisa Lyon was a pioneer in women’s bodybuilding during her career.
Women’s Bodybuilding legend Lisa Lyon passed away at 70 years old after a battle with stomach cancer, according to TMZ. The news was reported to the outlet by a close friend who has been helping Lyon and her family. She passed away at her home in the San Fernando Valley while on hospice care.
TMZ reported last week that Lyon had been transferred to hospice care and was in “grave condition” from her battle with cancer.
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.”
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
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.
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).
Generation Iron sends condolences to family and friends during this time. For more news and updates, follow Generation Iron on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
