Understanding the Sport of Bodybuilding

The Jamaica Amateur Bodybuilding and Fitness Association (JABBFA), formed in 1947, is Jamaica’s only recognized governing body for Amateur Bodybuilding, Fitness, Body Fitness and Figure competitions and the only organization that qualifies Jamaican competitors to compete at Local, Regional and International Bodybuilding, Fitness and Body Fitness (figure) competitions. 

The organization is a member of the Central American and Caribbean Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation (CACBBFF) and the International Federation of Bodybuilding and Fitness (IFBB) and is also an approved sporting association of Jamaica, registered by and operating through the Sports Development Foundation of Jamaica.

As part of its mandate to broaden the sport’s appeal and vision of introducing it to a wider audience of Jamaicans, the main tool has been the annual National Championships and Fitness Expo. The organization has also sought to raise awareness and increase social involvement with participation in fitness expos and demonstrations across the island, road races, International Coastal Clean-Up, public awareness campaigns (such as International Women’s Day) and public relations. 

It is with an overall mandate of providing the platform for Jamaicans to excel in the sport that the organization not only seeks avenues for professional development but also to increase the health status of Jamaicans. As such the organization will be hosting a Fitness Expo at the Mayberry National Championships on July 2nd 2022 at the Courtleigh Auditorium. 

This event will not only provide the opportunity for the public to be exposed to the latest trends in the fitness industry but also to be educated on best practices for health, wellness and overall well-being. In addition, there will be the opportunity to interact with various booth holders providing products and services complementing the occasion.

Wendell Martin is a devout Christian who looks forward to one achieving his goal of becoming a pro bodybuilder and representing Jamaica on the international scene. When not occupied with his educational pursuits  in Social work at the Portmore Community College , he spends the rest of his day at the gym .  Hailing form St Catherine, this 19 year old looks forward to making his bodybuilding debut this year at the Mayberry JABBFA National Senior Championships under the watchful eye of 2019 trainer of the year Xavier Reid.