Eugen Sandow ( April 2 , 1867 -- October 14 , 1925 ) , born Friedrich Wilhelm MÃ 1\/4 ller , was a Prussian who pioneered bodybuilding in 19th century and was often referred to as the `` Father of Modern Bodybuilding '' . Eugen Sandow ( April 2 , 1867 -- October 14 , 1925 ) , born Friedrich Wilhelm MÃ 1\/4 ller , was a Prussian pioneering bodybuilder in the 19th century and is often referred to as the `` Father of Modern Bodybuilding '' .