What do you consider yourself when it comes to lifting?

[...Kennedy]

I just got done reading a thread where two members I respect presented highly contrasting views about bodybuilding, competitive bodybuilding, and how it relates to this site in general.

I'm not going to belabor that point, but it made me curious- how would you all classify yourselves when it comes to bodybuilding? What do you strive to be?

I've attached a poll. I tried to include as many options as I could and make it multiple choice, please let me know if I've missed an option.

Thanks

[heatwave13]

I used to train exclusively olympic style and even participated in some regional meets, but now, it's mostly recreational since I just don't have the time to devote to OL.

[thepainter5]

I choose to say "other" because I started to lift simply for the increased strength as well as some extra size. I won't ever be competing and I love cycling/running too much to stop doing them to just be a body builder.
Having said that , "recreational lifter" doesn't fit for me either because I am committed to improving as I get older simpy to prevent having a fragile life in my senior years.

[illriginalized]

I'm not very competitive other than video games really... but when it comes to the gym, my mind state changes and I lift like I have a goal to be a competitive bodybuilder.

[...Kennedy]

I may be more accurate to ask us what we are striving to be.

That's a great point, edits added.

[bodyhard]

Bodybuilder non-competitive but hope to be competitive in the years to come God willing.

[Karl_Hungus]

I train mostly for strength .... I respect alot of bodybuilders, but bodybuilding itself has never really appealed to me.

[markymark69]

Other:

I strive to be a kid again.

I want to be able to go out and hike all day or go mountain biking all day..go out and play ball or go snowboarding....come home not feel like I am going to die and wake up the next day like nothing happened...just like I did when I was kid.

Basically I train for: Strength, flexibility and endurance.

If I have a 6 pack, can squat 405, but cant go out and shoot ball with the kids..whats the point?

[StressMonkey]

Hmm. I put 'other' because 'recreation lifter' could be just someone who goes to the gym when they can and isn't really dedicated.

I started mostly because I was unhappy with how my body looked but I've found that I really love how it makes me feel.

[jaredolsen]

I chose body builder even though im not the biggest guy here. However, I lift harder and am more dedicated than anyone i know..

[GnomusMaximus]

Other. I wear a kilt and throw rocks for crying out loud, where else would I fit?

[markymark69]

Other. I wear a kilt and throw rocks for crying out loud, where else would I fit?

lol! Repped for having the most original "Other".
I dont think anyone can top that.

[Olympique]

Other:

I strive to be a kid again.

I want to be able to go out and hike all day or go mountain biking all day..go out and play ball or go snowboarding....come home not feel like I am going to die and wake up the next day like nothing happened...just like I did when I was kid.

Basically I train for: Strength, flexibility and endurance.

If I have a 6 pack, can squat 405, but cant go out and shoot ball with the kids..whats the point?

My reasons are very similar to these. Just feeling young and healthy, being able to go out and be part of any sort of activity, keeping up with the kids. Fitness. All that makes you feel better overall.

So mostly 'other'.

[BJE]

I voted fitness model. I don't think the bodybuilder physique is in the cards for me. I would be happy with a fitness magazine cover model type body.

[Skidmarx]

I'm in the "other" category.

I lift for size and strength, and do cardio to keep fit. I'm too religious about it to be considered "recreational".

[Minotaur]

I may not have the numbers for a powerlifter, but I have the mindset, and I prefer to train like one.

[chodan9]

last year I would have said recreational lifter.
This year I am suprised to find myself checking non-competitve bodybuilder

[IronCamp]

body builder-non competitive.

[Capt_Lou]

I just here for the hot chicks

Seriously Non-competitive

[KeepItMoving]

Dedicated lifter who won't sacrifice strength for being "ripped" but still wants to have a bodybuilder shaped physique. (that would have been tough to fit in that box!)