Lisa Lyon Dies At 70, Community Mourns Over Tragic Loss

In the world of female bodybuilding, Lisa Lyon was a shining star, but on September 8, 2023, that star was dimmed as the community learned of her passing at the age of 70. Lisa Lyon’s life and legacy have left an indelible mark on the fitness and bodybuilding world, and her untimely death is a profound loss that is mourned by her admirers and the community as a whole.

Lisa Lyon

Lisa Lyon, born on May 13, 1953, in Los Angeles, California, was a pioneering figure in the world of female bodybuilding and modeling. Her remarkable journey from an art student to a trailblazing bodybuilder and model left an indelible mark on the fitness and bodybuilding community. With her unwavering dedication to promoting strength and fitness for women, Lisa Lyon’s legacy continues to inspire and empower aspiring athletes and fitness enthusiasts worldwide.

A Trailblazing Journey

Born on May 13, 1953, in Los Angeles, California, Lisa Lyon’s journey was nothing short of extraordinary. She began as an art student at the University of California at Los Angeles, where she discovered her passion for Japanese fencing, also known as kendo. However, her quest for greater strength led her to weight training, eventually drawing her into the world of bodybuilding.

Triumph at the IFBB Women’s World Pro Bodybuilding Championship

Lisa Lyon’s crowning achievement in her bodybuilding career came on June 16, 1979, when she entered and triumphed at the International Federation of BodyBuilders (IFBB) Women’s World Pro Bodybuilding Championship in Los Angeles. This monumental victory marked the pinnacle of her career, and she became a trailblazer in women’s bodybuilding.

Championing Women’s Bodybuilding

Beyond her competition success, Lisa Lyon was a tireless advocate for women’s bodybuilding. She used her platform to promote fitness and strength for women, appearing in magazines and television talk shows to champion the cause.

In 1981, Lisa authored the book “Lisa Lyon’s Body Magic” (ISBN 0-553-01296-7), a comprehensive guide to weight training for women. Her book served as a valuable resource, empowering women to embark on their fitness journeys with confidence.

A True Physical Force

During her prime in October 1980, Lisa Lyon showcased impressive physical capabilities. Her stats at the time were as follows: bust 37A, waist 24″, hips 35″, height 5′ 4″, weight 120 lbs, and her hair color was brunette. Her remarkable strength included a deadlift of 225 pounds, a bench press of 120 pounds, and a squat of 265 pounds. These feats demonstrated not only her dedication but also her exceptional physical prowess.

Modeling and Collaboration

Lisa Lyon’s modeling career was equally illustrious. While she is often cited as the first female bodybuilder to appear in Playboy in October 1980, she was preceded by Kellie Everts, who featured in a May 1977 pictorial titled “Humping Iron.” Nonetheless, Lisa’s appearance in Playboy marked a significant milestone in her modeling journey.

She worked with renowned photographers like Helmut Newton, Joel-Peter Witkin, and Robert Mapplethorpe. In particular, her collaboration with Robert Mapplethorpe between 1980 and 1983 resulted in the creation of over 150 iconic photographs, culminating in the 1983 book “Lady: Lisa Lyon.” Mapplethorpe’s photography beautifully captured Lisa’s body as simultaneously traditionally feminine and strong in a conventionally masculine sense, further solidifying her status as an icon.

A Legacy Beyond Bodybuilding

In 2000, Lisa Lyon received a well-deserved honor when she was inducted into the IFBB Hall of Fame. Her induction recognized her as a one-woman media-relations activist who elevated bodybuilding to the level of fine art. Lisa’s impact on the sport extended far beyond the competition stage; she left an indelible mark on the world of fitness and bodybuilding.

Lisa Lyon’s Passing and Tributes

On September 8, 2023, Lisa Lyon, the trailblazing figure in female bodybuilding and modeling, passed away at the age of 70 after battling stomach cancer. Her contributions to the world of fitness, bodybuilding, and modeling will forever be remembered and celebrated.

Fellow bodybuilder Arnold Schwarzenegger paid tribute to Lisa, describing her as “the best” and expressing his deep affection for her.

Lisa Lyon’s Enduring Influence

Lisa Lyon’s influence extended far beyond the realm of bodybuilding and modeling. Her legacy inspired Marvel Comics writer Frank Miller, who used her as the initial inspiration for the iconic character Elektra. Jennifer Garner later portrayed Elektra in the 2005 action film “Elektra,” further cementing Lisa’s impact on popular culture.

Her book, “Lisa Lyon’s Body Magic,” continues to inspire women to pursue fitness and strength training, empowering them to reach their full potential.

Lisa’s foray into acting also deserves recognition, with appearances in films such as “Three Crowns of the Sailor” (1983), “Getting Physical” (1984), and “Vamp” (1986), alongside Grace Jones.

A Profound Loss

The bodybuilding and fitness community mourns the tragic loss of Lisa Lyon, a true icon in the field. Her journey from an art student to a pioneering bodybuilder and model serves as an inspiration for all those who dare to dream and strive for greatness.

Lisa Lyon’s life will be remembered not only for her remarkable achievements but also for the impact she had on the lives of countless women who found strength and empowerment through her legacy.

As we bid farewell to this extraordinary woman, we honor her memory and the enduring mark she left on the world of bodybuilding and beyond.