Muscle Boys

<p>What was once a lifestyle for a small number of gay men in big cities has become a way of life for many and the gay gym is now a culture on its own. <em>Muscle Boys: Gay Gym Culture</em> explores the evolution and current structure of this gay subculture that surfaced in San Francisco West Hollywood and New York during the 1970s. </p><p>Covering ancient Greek gymnasium culture modern bodybuilding practices and homoerotic muscle-bound media <em>Muscles Boys </em>examines the origins of the male athletic ideal. A sociological investigation on masculinity fitness HIV steroids and sex in the locker room <em>Muscle Boys</em> dissects the gay gym experience and celebrates gay body culture and its role in modern gay life. </p><p>Author Erick Alvarez offers a candid study of the gay gym from his perspective as a physical trainer in the San Francisco Bay area and from his interviews and online surveys of nearly 6000 gay men. <em>Muscle Boys: Gay Gym Culture</em> is an enlightening read for anyone interested in gay body culture and a valuable resource for academics working in GLBT studies human sexuality psychology or athletics.</p>